Chapter 24: The Gold Gown

I undress quickly, trying to suppress my annoyance and embarrassment. Roman's words echo in my mind, and though the truth is hard to accept, I know I can't hide forever. I need to grow a thicker skin. I need to allow myself to be vulnerable.

My hands are still shaking as I fold my work clothes and set them aside. When I'm down to my underwear, I finally turn and look at the mirror.

I don't dislike what I see. I might not look like the actresses and models that the Fontaine boys normally date - I could stand to lose some weight, get a better haircut, and learn how to apply makeup like an adult - but I'm not hopeless. At least I don't think I am - and judging by some of the things he's said over the past few days, Roman doesn't seem to either.

But he also thinks I'm afraid of my sexuality, so I'm not sure what to believe right now.

Might as well try on some of these gowns.

I almost go for the black one, just out of stubbornness, but I find myself reaching for the gold dress first. M