THE CHRISTMAS PAGEANT
DECEMBER 2016 - #OutlawQueen
Don't ask me where my motivation came from for this but it just came out of nowhere. I started this in early December. I've broken it down into three parts! It was originally supposed to be just a OS. Merry Christmas to my amazing #Outlawqueen friends! XOXO! P.S Even though this is Christmas themed you better believe this story is RATED M – for obvious reasons.
PART ONE
Regina Mills hates Black Friday. She was still exhausted from baking, cooking and slaving over Thanksgiving dinner. Even though she'd only hosted for a few of her closest friends and family members it didn't matter. She was dead on her feet. But, she would do anything for her son and this year he'd asked for a PS4 – again. She'd missed out last year and she wasn't going to let that happen again. He'd recently turned fourteen and all his friends had one. So, here she was with her younger sister Mary standing outside in the bitter cold waiting on line for Locksley Toy's to open. It was the most impressive and popular store for miles and they had advertised one hundred PS4's in stock. She was getting one – or else. Mary was excited to join her. She was planning to buy her three year old son Neil a few gifts. Her little sister was always up for an adventure. Regina couldn't wait to get the hell out of here and fall into bed. They were huddled together and Mary looked behind them "I can't believe how many people are lined up for this."
"This is insane. I doubt we'll be doing this next year," Regina replied.
"Henry will be so happy. David and I want to get him two games."
"I'm sure he'll be very excited." Another hour went by and finally one of the store's associates came out and handed everyone in line a voucher for the popular game console. She was number twenty. Then, they were forced to wait for another thirty minutes until finally the doors opened and people were handed a shopping cart as they entered and a PS4. Regina smiled triumphantly at her sister and then they began to browse around. It was completely packed. But somehow the store employees kept everything organized and the people who didn't receive a voucher were actually given rain checks for the sale price. Everyone won in the end. Regina was surprised how easy it had been. Her and Mary walked around for a bit and then decided they better go check out the video games at the front of the store. They were shocked when they realized the shelves were practically empty already "Oh' my God! I'm an idiot! We should have done this first. What is wrong with me?"
"It's alright," Regina said.
"No, it's not! How could I be so stupid? Henry needs more than one game to play on that thing!"
Regina placed a hand on her sister's shoulder but before she could say anything an accented deep voice interrupted them "Ladies is everything alright? Can I help?" They both looked over and Regina couldn't help but stare at the tall, blue-eyed, very handsome man who was offering his services. Mary started speaking to him immediately and Regina couldn't help that for the first time in . . . forever the butterflies in her stomach were doing somersaults and her throat was slightly closing. She couldn't help but notice the way his dark green dress shirt clung to his chest and his black pants . . .
Her sister was saying her name "What?"
"Mr. Locksley asked you what games Henry wanted; he has extra in the back," Mary said.
"Oh' . . . I'm so sorry. I'm exhausted. Mortal Kombat, A superhero fighting game; I'm not sure the name and a hockey one. Does that help," she asked him.
"Yes, I'll be right back," he said.
Mary turned and glared at her "What the hell?"
"What?"
"I can't remember the last time the mere presence of a man rendered you speechless. He is very cute but you were staring."
Regina could feel her face was slightly flushed and she cleared her throat "I'm really tired."
"You were completely zoned out. He owns this place; that much I found out. Maybe, you should try talking to him and strike up a conversation."
"I just looked like a crazy loon. Not a chance," she replied.
A few seconds later; Mr. Locksley came back with not only the three games Henry wanted but two hot chocolates; one for each of them "That's very generous of you. Isn't it – Regina," her sister said as she shoved her slightly.
"Yes, thank you for the games also. My son is going to be very excited," she said as she took the cup from him.
"Oh' how old is your son? Mine is ten."
"Henry is fourteen," she replied.
"I'm dreading the teenage years. I've raised Roland on my own since he was born. You'd think working here I'd be an expert but not even close," he admitted.
"Well, so far it hasn't been too bad and I'm sure you're doing fine," she said as she took a sip of her drink "Thank you again but we really should be . . . Oh' did you see which way my sister went," she asked turning around and realizing Mary was gone.
He chuckled "She motioned that she was checking out. My name is Robin by the way," he said as he stuck out his hand.
She took it "Regina," she replied.
"It's nice to meet you. I'll walk you to the front door," he said releasing her fingers.
"Oh' that's not necessary. I'm sure you are very busy."
"I want to," he said as they started walking slowly toward the entrance to wait for Mary "I'm sure I'll see you again. You can't be all finished with your shopping?"
"No, I'll need to come back to shop for my nephew."
"It's just me and Roland. So, thankfully I'm finished with my shopping."
"Oh' I see.
She noticed he was wavering from foot to foot "Next time you're in you should ask for me. I could make you another hot chocolate."
She laughed "Is this the norm for you?"
"What's that," he asked.
"I don't know; flirting with your customers? Do you do that often?"
"Actually, no, I don't," he said seriously as he glanced into her face "I'm sorry if I offended you."
"No, I guess I'm just not used to it. Well, in that case I'll ask for you next time I'm here," she said smiling.
"Good." A minute or two later Mary was walking toward them with all the gifts they'd picked out "Thank you ladies. Have a nice evening."
They both nodded and headed outside "Not now – wait until we get to the car," Regina told Mary. Robin watched them leave and ignored the feelings in the pit of his stomach. His night had only just begun. There was much to do. It's Black Friday after all.
A week later; Regina let her dance class out early. They'd been rehearsing so much for the upcoming Christmas Pageant and they deserved a break. Besides; she wanted to get a few Christmas presents for Neil and stocking stuffers for Henry. As she drove she couldn't help but wonder if Robin was working. He did tell her to ask for him the next time she was in the store. The truth was – she hadn't been able to stop thinking about him. He seemed nice, owned his own business and was a single father.
Also, he looked very nice in his clothes and she couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to get to know him better. She parked the car, took a deep breath and headed inside. She grabbed a cart and then headed over to the service counter to ask for him. The young woman called his office and then informed Regina he'd be right down. She decided to browse the large candy section up front and grabbed a few small things for Henry. A minute or two later; she heard a voice behind her "Hello Regina."
She turned around and her eyes instantly deceived her as she looked him over "Hi Robin," she replied as she bit her lip and moved a strand of hair behind her ear. He was dressed in khaki pants today and a dark green polo shirt "Sorry, you're working."
"Don't be sorry. I was helping the guys in the back stock the shelves. Did you want to come up to my office? I could use a break and a hot chocolate," he said smiling.
"Oh' alright but my things . . ."
"I'll make sure the girls put them aside for you," he replied as he jogged over to the counter and spoke to the ladies behind the counter. Once her cart was put away he motioned for her to follow him "My stock room is back there," he said pointing to the back left hand corner of the store. They walked through a pair of double doors and up a flight of stairs "I renovated and added a full kitchen and a giant office for myself last year," he explained.
Once inside the kitchen her eyes widened "Wow, this is amazing."
He motioned for her to sit down at the long table as he began to make their hot chocolate on top of the stove "I wanted my employees to have a great place to rest. Most of them are young and they are going to school. I remember what it was like in college. Anyway, this gives them a chance to eat a real meal and relax during their breaks. It's also good for me too though. I'm here often and sometimes Roland is as well. My father built this business from the ground up and after he died I took it over." She listened as he talked about his family and eventually he topped their drinks with whipped cream and they went to his office. That space was also impressive; a huge desk greeted them, there were several filing cabinets but to the right there was an additional mini fridge and a large sofa. They sat down on the couch and he placed his arm around the back "I'm sorry. I've been talking too much. Regina; what do you do?"
She smiled "No, it's alright. I'm a dance teacher. I own a small school on Main Street," she explained.
"Mills Academy perhaps?" he asked.
"You've heard of it?"
"I know your school puts on a Christmas Pageant every year. I've always wanted to go actually. My son saw it last year and loved it so much."
"Oh' I'm so glad. Yes, that's true. So, like you – this is my busiest time of year."
They both laughed and he cleared his throat "I'm sorry if I'm coming on too strong but will you have dinner with me some time? Maybe, when we're not so busy?"
Her eyes widened "Oh . . ."
"I'm sorry maybe I shouldn't have . . ."
"No it's fine . . ."
"I've never done this. It's just I can't help but feel something between us . . ."
"Yes," Regina said interrupting.
"What?"
"Yes, I'll go out with you."
"You will?"
"My sister says I need to get out more. Actually, I have a suggestion."
"I'd love to hear it," he said as he leaned a little closer toward her.
"This Friday night is the holiday on the lake tree lighting ceremony in the park. We go every year; Henry, me, my sister and her family. Perhaps, you and your son could join us?"
"That sounds fun. I'm sure Roland would love it. I'll check my coverage and tell him tonight."
"Great," she replied.
"Would you like to have dinner before at the diner? My treat since it's my idea," he said.
"Yes, alright I think that would be lovely."
He stood "Let me give you my card – just in case," he said.
"Do you have a piece of paper? I'll write my number down – just in case," she teased. They exchanged numbers "Robin; don't be shy. Call me. I know what it's like to be a single parent."
He smiled brightly and bit his lip "Alright, I will." They walked downstairs; she got her cart and finished her shopping but not before Robin kissed the top of her hand and then went back to the stock room. Regina checked out and then once outside; she waited until she was in her car and driving away before she screamed like a teenager. Then, she called her sister on the Bluetooth.
Regina was shocked that Robin had called her – several times. It was apparent they were drawn to one another. Conversation flowed easily between them and they seemed to have much in common; movies, music, food, their children. He admitted to throwing himself into his work after his wife died and that he hadn't been with anyone in a very long time – years. He was surprised when she told him the same thing. She wasn't as nervous about their date; not after talking to him on the phone several times. Friday came quickly and they'd agreed to meet at the diner for an early dinner around five o'clock. Henry seemed happy for her but she was still somewhat afraid of his reactions to whatever . . . this was. When they walked in she saw Robin immediately sitting in a booth in the back of the restaurant. Granny who was the owner; said she'd be with them shortly to take their drink orders. The introductions were made and Henry insisted that Robin and Regina sit next to one another. They ordered their food; Pancakes for the boys, a turkey club for Robin and a BLT for Regina. They talked about school and work and when Roland found out Regina was in charge of the Christmas Pageant his face lit up "I want to help!"
Robin and Regina both exchanged glances and Henry spoke up "You could probably help me hand out programs," he said as he shoved a piece of pancake in his mouth.
"Really! That would be so cool," Roland said.
Robin didn't know what to say "Well, if you really want to and if it's alright with Regina?"
"Of course; if Henry doesn't mind he'll show you what to do," she replied.
"Nope," he said shaking his head. "I don't mind; it will be cool to have company."
"Awesome! This is so cool!" They all laughed and Roland and Robin seemed interested in the pageant. She didn't want to give too much away. When the check came he grabbed it; placed several bills down and sent Roland to the counter to pay for it."
Henry sat back "Thank you Robin; that was delicious."
"Thank you Henry for being kind to my son I can already tell he likes you."
"It's cool. I'll go check on him," he said as he stood from the booth.
Robin placed his arm on the back of the booth behind Regina "He's a great kid."
"Thank you. Roland is very sweet," she said smiling.
"He's going to talk about working the pageant all month long. Thank you."
"I love his enthusiasm; it's adorable," she added. He turned to face her and she smiled "What is it?"
"I should have told you straight away; you look lovely."
She bit her lip "Thank you. So do you – might I add."
He cleared his throat and smiled "Shall we go?" They stood and Robin tossed a few more bills on the table and he reached for her hand "May I?" She slipped her hand into his and they headed outside "I can follow you," he suggested.
"Mom, you know parking is crazy. We should take one car," Henry said.
"I can drive," Robin replied.
"Cool. Let's go," Roland said as he dragged Henry down the sidewalk.
"I guess that's been decided," Regina said laughing. They all climbed into Robin's black Equinox and it didn't take long before they'd arrived. Regina showed him the best place to park and then they all got out quickly.
"I have a blanket in the trunk. Should I grab it," Robin asked.
"Yes probably a good idea," she said. Henry offered to carry it while the four of them walked along and searched for a bench. Regina bravely slipped her hand back into Robin's grasp and he winked at her.
"Hey; there's Aunt Mary and Uncle David," Henry said as he and Roland ran ahead. It appeared her sister saved enough room for all of them but Robin offered to stand for a bit so David could sit. Introductions were made and Mary shot a wink at Regina. She couldn't help the heat that surged to her cheeks. He looked nice tonight. He was dressed casually in jeans and a button downed red shirt. Her thoughts were interrupted by her date's son "Papa what time are they lighting the tree," Roland asked.
"Should be soon," Robin replied.
"I bet it will be very pretty."
"I'm sure it will."
Regina couldn't help but notice Roland was shivering "Henry can I have the blanket?"
Mary, Neil, Regina, Roland and Henry all snuggled on the bench and David placed the blanket over them "Better," he asked.
"Yes, thank you," Roland replied. The women chatted and Regina tried her best to listen to Robin and David. They ended up standing to the side and were talking about work and then she heard her brother-in-law say "Regina was a serious dancer at one point. Sometimes she still lets loose." She groaned under her breath; she was going to kick his ass the first chance she got. She didn't tell just anyone about her dancing. It was private but David must assume something is going on with them which . . . she looked up and Robin was watching her. He smiled as their eyes met. Whatever was happening between them was intense and she liked it. She enjoyed feeling this way – it was new and exciting. A few minutes later; the music started; David and Robin stood behind the bench and a few seconds went by and the tree was lit with beautiful different colored lights.
The high school chorus was singing and Regina could tell Henry was watching his friend Violet. Roland snuggled close to Regina and she put her arm around him "It's pretty," he whispered.
"It is," she replied. Thirty minutes later; the chorus broke and Henry asked to go talk to Violet and Robin sat down in his spot. Mary stood so David could rest his back for a bit and placed Neil on his lap who was falling asleep.
"Did you enjoy that," Robin asked his son.
"Yes, it was nice."
"Someone is passing out," David said to Mary.
"We should probably get going," she replied. They packed up and it took a few minutes but finally everyone said goodnight and they waved to Henry.
"Do you mind if we give my son a few minutes," Regina asked.
"Of course not," they sat back and Robin placed his arm around her shoulder and Roland snuggled between them "Tired?"
"A little," he admitted.
"We can talk more about the pageant as it gets closer. But, I was wondering what time does the store close Christmas Eve?"
Robin sighed "Six but I can talk to my crew and work something out. I'd really like to see the show." Regina was distracted; she watched as Violet kissed Henry's cheek and they hugged. She ran off to join her classmates but Henry lingered and continued to watch her "My son is growing up," she whispered.
Robin rubbed her shoulder "It must be scary."
"A little," she admitted.
"It'll be alright. Henry seems like a good kid."
Regina smiled "He really is."
Henry started walking back toward them "Sorry, we can go now."
"It's alright. Roland; are you ready," Robin asked. Henry carried the blanket and once again Regina took Robin's hand as they walked to the car. They got in and he drove back toward the diner. They chatted about the show and the music and then there was a few seconds of silence.
Henry spoke up "Robin and Roland should come over tomorrow and bake cookies with us. Mom and I do it every year," he explained.
"That sounds fun," Roland said.
"Um . . . only if Regina says it's alright. I finish work at five tomorrow."
"Oh' . . . well my last class ends at three. So, I think that would be fine."
"Are you sure," Robin practically whispered.
"Yes, it'll be nice. Henry's right; it's always just he and I. I can make chili in the crock pot and you can join us for dinner." The boys were chatting in the back and Regina glanced out the window – she had to stop running. She deserved happiness and so did Henry. He suggested this so he could probably tell they liked each other. Robin was holding her hand and rubbing his thumb over her fingers. It felt nice and as crazy as it sounded – safe. He was gentle and kind and she already liked him. He pulled up next to her car and he told Roland to stay put. But, his son couldn't help but unbuckle his seat belt and hug Regina and then he gave Henry a high five. He buckled back in and Robin got out. Regina unlocked her car and Henry got in the passenger seat "Thank you for dinner," she said as she leaned against the driver's side door.
"Thank you for inviting us and I'm just going to ask one more time – are you sure about tomorrow?"
"It was my son's suggestion; obviously he must sense something about us."
"Right; well, I can honestly say if our kids weren't here – I'd kiss you goodnight with your permission of course."
She laughed "I'd let you but I'll take a hug." He wrapped her in his arms and when he pulled back he kissed her forehead. She opened her door "Goodnight Robin. I'll text you my address tomorrow."
"Goodnight. Bye Henry," Regina's son waved and he watched as they drove off. He got in the car with Roland and let out a breath – for the first time in years he was really interested in a woman again and it felt amazing.
Regina sent Robin a text with her address around noon the next day. She was busy with rehearsal until three thirty – they stayed a little late. She was cutting it close; thank goodness for Henry because he straightened the house for her and kept an eye on the chili. She quickly whipped up a batch of corn muffins to go with the meal and still managed to shower and change all before five. At ten after five; Robin sent her a text that they were on the way. Henry set the dining room table insisting that this was a special occasion because he couldn't remember the last time a guy had joined them for dinner. She blushed and then went to the kitchen to pull the muffins out of the oven. A few minutes later Robin sent her a text "I think we're here." Henry offered to run outside to greet them and a few seconds later she heard her son say "You can hang your coats in there and just leave your shoes by the door.
Mom is in the kitchen." She decided she better go meet them and she headed out to the foyer. She couldn't help but giggle when she saw their faces "They're taking it all in," Henry said.
"I can tell. Henry, can you show Roland around while I take Robin to the kitchen to finish up." She bravely took Robin's hand and led him to the next room "Say something," she said laughing.
"I'm sorry. You have a beautiful home. It's huge," he said leaning against the counter.
"Thank you my parents left it to me. Mary never really felt comfortable here. She moved out after they died."
"I'm sorry."
"Thank you. Would you like a glass of wine or I have iced tea also?"
"Iced Tea sounds good," he replied. She started to fix his drink but he grabbed her hand "Regina, may I be so bold . . ." He pulled her into his arms and she snuggled against his chest "Hi," he whispered into her ear.
She smiled "Hello how was your day?"
He took a step back and leaned in and kissed her forehead "Busy and yours?"
"The same."
"Should I call the kids for dinner? Are we ready?"
"Yes, can you carry the crockpot to the dining room?"
"Sure," he replied. Once everything else was on the table Robin yelled for the boys and they came running "Roland, slow down."
"Sorry Papa," he said softly as he sat next to Henry "Regina your house is very big and pretty."
She laughed "Thank you Roland."
"Henry has so many comic books. His room is cool!"
"Maybe, he'll show me later?"
"Sure," Henry replied. Conversation flowed easily between the four of them. All of the boys; including Robin had a second bowl of chili and Regina even had a little bit more and when dinner was over Roland wanted to help her in the kitchen. So, Henry gave Robin the grand tour of the house. He couldn't believe how beautiful and pristine everything was but the family room was homey and Henry's room seemed comfortable. It was probably one of the most beautiful houses he'd ever been in. When Henry and Robin made their way back to the kitchen; Regina and Roland were already stirring chocolate chip cookie batter. They were standing at the island and Robin couldn't help but beam at them.
They were quite the vision. She looked lovely tonight. She was wearing a red sweater and simple black pants. He noticed her Christmas socks and he found them endearing. He was glad he dressed down in jeans and a black sweater; he was distracted by Henry who motioned for him to come to the other side of the room "You two can work on sugar cookies," Regina said. Once they started rolling out the dough; Robin noticed Henry was eating it raw "Henry Daniel Mills stop that!"
They both laughed "Does that taste good," Robin whispered.
"Yes but mom hates when I eat it like this," Henry admitted. They laughed and Regina yelled at Robin to stop encouraging her son. Everyone giggled and she shot him somewhat of a wink. His stomach turned and all he really wanted to do was pull her out of the room and kiss her senseless.
The chocolate chip cookies went into the oven and when they came out the sugar went in "What's next," Roland asked.
"Mom, we should do the white chocolate cherry ones," Henry suggested.
"That sounds delicious," Robin said.
"I love cherries," Roland replied.
Regina laughed "I guess that's settled then; Henry and Roland please gather the ingredients for the cookie; it's different from the other's we've done," she said. She went over to the sink to wash a few bowls but Robin gently pushed her aside to take over "Thank you," she said as he took her place.
"No, thank you Regina; this is the most fun we've had in a while."
"I like to bake," she said leaning against the counter.
"You're very good at it. I'm not much of a baker but I can cook."
"Oh' really; then maybe you can cook me dinner sometime."
"I'd love to," he said smiling.
"Are you two flirting," Roland asked suddenly from behind them.
Henry chuckled and shook his head "You know I am old enough to stay with Roland if you two want to go out one night."
"I have a babysitter named Belle but I'd rather hang out with Henry," Roland said.
They both turned around and Regina knew her face must be bright red but she bravely said "I'm finished with work most nights by five so it's up to Robin."
"I'd love to. I'll check my schedule. Thank you Henry."
"It's no problem," he replied.
"Papa when was the last time you went on a date?"
Everyone laughed but Regina could tell Robin seemed somewhat embarrassed "A while," he admitted.
"Alright you guys let's finish these cookies then we'll have hot chocolate." They worked quickly and Regina read the recipe off her phone and told everyone what to do. Once the cookies went into the oven Henry asked if they could turn the television on in the family room and watch a Christmas movie. Regina told them to start it without them – there were dishes to finish. Robin motioned for her to sit at the island and he rinsed whatever was left in the sink "I promised hot chocolate," she said.
Robin turned around "I can do it. I'm good at making hot chocolate," he replied winking at her.
She laughed "Good because I hate to admit it but I'm tired." She watched as he made the drink on top of the stove for all of them. She liked having him here. It was nice to have a man around. At the same time it felt strange and different. Regina was surprised she gave in so easily; they'd spent time together last night and here they were again. Now, Henry was offering to babysit so they could go on a real date. What would she wear? He caught her staring and she couldn't help the blush that crept up her cheeks "Sorry," she said.
"What are you thinking about," he asked as he grabbed four coffee mugs out of her cabinet and placed them down on the island.
"Honestly, it's nice . . . whatever this is."
He smiled and sat next to her "I'm really glad you decided to go Christmas shopping on Black Friday," he said teasingly as he cupped the side of her head with his hand.
She giggled and he bravely placed his forehead against hers "Robin," she said softly. They bumped noses and his mouth slowly and tenderly took hers in a sweet kiss. She scooted closer to him and his fingers cascaded through her hair. She moaned and their kisses grew a little bit more heated. They heard giggling from the next room and Robin pulled back from her. He kissed her a few more times and then the oven beeped signaling the last batch of cookies was done. Regina stood and took them out and then finished the hot chocolates. She put whipped cream on them and then Robin couldn't help it; he stood behind her and ran his hands over her shoulders and down her arms "When can I take you out," he whispered in her ear.
She leaned back slightly and he wrapped his arms around her "Whenever you're free," she suggested.
"This week," he asked.
"On a school night," she questioned.
Robin shrugged "Friday then?"
"Sounds good; will you carry two of those mugs? I think the boys might be ready for hot chocolate."
"Yes milady," he said as he grabbed two of the drinks. The boys were watching ELF; she'd bought it for Henry last year. They all snuggled together on the sofa. Regina on one end and Robin on the other with the boys in the middle; at one point she got up to pack the cookies and then brought each of them a few. By the time the movie was over it was late and Robin knew they should be heading out "Roland we should be going."
"Oh' man I wish we didn't have to," he said.
"Well, your father and I are planning to go out on Friday. So, if Henry is okay with it you'll be back."
"Cool!" They put shoes and coats on quickly and then Roland hugged Regina "Thank you! Baking cookies was so much fun!"
"You are very welcome Roland and we'll see you on Friday," Regina said. Henry fist bumped Roland and then Robin and went to the kitchen.
Robin kissed the top of her hand "Shall I call you when I get home or are you going to sleep?"
"I'll text you and then we can chat," she suggested.
"Sounds good," he replied. He pulled her in for a quick hug and then kissed her cheek "Thank you again."
She took a step back and squeezed his hand "It was fun. Be careful driving. I'll talk to you later." He nodded and then Regina watched as Robin and Roland walked down the sidewalk. They turned around one final time and waved and then she closed the door. Henry was in the kitchen sneaking another cookie and she leaned against the counter "So, thank you for offering to babysit."
He smiled "You like each other. It's the least I can do."
"Are you okay with all of this," she asked.
"Yes, mom you deserve to be happy and Robin seems nice. Plus, it's Christmas time and . . . well I like that you're smiling again."
Regina hugged him "I love you Henry. Thank you."
"It's alright. Goodnight mom. I'm going to read and then go to bed." He left the room and she finished cleaning the kitchen and then also decided to head up to bed. Robin would eventually text her and they'd probably chat for a while. It had turned out to be a wonderful night and that kiss . . . she shook her head and started for the stairs. She wanted to shower before he called and maybe check out her closet – she'd need something nice to wear for Friday night.