Lina's POV
We all made our way to our designated quarters to prepare for the party. After a leisurely shower, I followed my usual pre-party routine. Anticipating a lackluster evening, I opted for my trusty black dress and matching high heels. I spent extra time styling my hair and applying bold makeup, determined to at least look presentable.
Expecting to be the first one ready, I was surprised to find Joy already in the living room when I arrived. She was engrossed in her phone, dressed in a sleek black suit with a daringly low neckline and a glimmering silver bra peeking out. "You look absolutely stunning!" I complimented her.
"Thank you, but are you sure you want to leave your hot boss behind tonight?" she teased with a knowing smile.
"I prefer not to stand out too much," I replied sheepishly. "Besides, I don't have another fancy dress and didn't have time to buy one either."
Trying to change the subject, I steered the conversation towards the event we were about to attend.
As we waited for the other two to join us, Joy and I chatted about Melissa's upcoming engagement and how she would react. But before long, Sarah entered the room with a mischievous smirk on her face. "What's so funny? What are you two scheming?" she asked playfully. "Oh nothing," Joy replied through laughter, barely able to contain herself. "We were just imagining Melissa's reaction to her future husband." Joining in on the joke, I added, "She seems obsessed with finding her soulmate." Suddenly, Sarah's expression turned serious as she interjects, "Let's not underestimate the situation. I came prepared for anything. You never know with Melissa." Not wanting to dampen the mood any further, Joy quickly changed the subject.
Then, Joy and I noticed Sarah's unusual choice of outfit. We exchanged knowing glances, silently agreeing on our observation. Sarah typically gravitated towards darker colors, but today she has opted for a light nude tone. Despite her usual witch-like or nymph-like aura, she almost seemed to radiate an ethereal quality tonight. Her long brown hair was left loose, with delicate braids adorning the front. "Wow, what a rare sight! I had no idea," Joy blurted out without hesitation. Wanting to ease any potential awkwardness, I interjected quickly, "Ignore her. You look absolutely stunning." Sarah was the sunshine and glue of our group. Despite her petite stature, she exuded confidence and had an uncanny ability to empathize with others. It was rare to see her flustered or shy like she was now. I could sense that Joy was enjoying Sarah's reaction and would love to continue teasing her. With a stern glance, I tried to discourage her from any further teasing.
Though I may be introverted and reserved myself, I cannot tolerate bullying in any form.
The evening air was filled with the sound of our excited chatter as we waited for Melissa to get ready. Finally, after what seemed like forever, she emerged in a modest green dress that perfectly complemented her long red hair styled into a high ponytail. But what caught our attention more than her fashion choice was her reaction to my own outfit.
"Are you kidding me, Lina?" Melissa exclaimed, her usual carefree attitude replaced by shock and disbelief. "Where do you think we're going in that dress?"
Before I could even respond, she grabbed my wrist and dragged me to her room. She rummaged through her closet and pulled out a selection of gorgeous dresses, determined to find something suitable for me. Her annoyance at my impracticality was mixed with a sense of satisfaction at being able to take care of us.
As she held different dresses against my body, muttering to herself, I couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by her sudden change in behavior. Before I knew it, she had chosen a stunning red dress with a corset and silky skirt that had a high slit. I couldn't remember the last time I wore something so bold and extravagant.
As I changed into the dress in the bathroom, I heard Melissa rustling through her belongings. When I finally emerged, she handed me some accessories - a pair of red heels and a purse - before rushing off to prepare herself.
When I entered the living room, all eyes were on me. Joy exclaimed with enthusiasm at my transformation while Melissa added with pride that she had also made changes to the other girls' outfits and accessories. Joy's silver bra was now adorned with multiple necklaces, making her look like a modern-day Amazonian goddess. And Sarah, who already had an ethereal quality about her, was given glittery flower accessories that enhanced her fairy-like appearance.
Feeling slightly self-conscious under their scrutiny, I replied timidly that we all looked different today. Joy then suggested that we not only look different but also act differently for the night. Despite our initial reservations, Joy's contagious enthusiasm convinced us to give it a try.
As we rode in a limousine towards the party, sent to pick us up by the hosts, I couldn't help but wonder what the night had in store for us with this new and unexpected twist.