Dresses And Butterflies
The sudden and loud blare of a cheerful ringtone jolted Wattson awake. She was immediately hit with a wave of the morning grogginess. She really should have gone to bed sooner but she kept herself up and ended up oversleeping. Looking over to her still buzzing and singing phone, she picked it up and checked the caller ID but before answering it she cleared her throat and took in a few breaths to not sound tired.
"Goodmorning, Renee. How are you?" Wattson greeted after answering
"Goodmorning, Nataile. I'm doing alright, how are you?" Wraith replied
"I am doing well. So, what's up?"
"I was wondering if you wanted to go shopping with me. Usually I hate doing this type of thing, but with the event coming up and not having a dress for the party, I figured I'd just go to get one."
"What about the blue one you had from last year? Can't you wear that one?" she suggested.
"I have it, but... I can't exactly fit it anymore,"
"You've... outgrown it?"
"Yes and no. I've put on some pounds because of Elliot. He insisted I eat and work out more because 'It's important to stay in shape.' Forcing me to work out more than I already do. The weight is muscle, most of it anyway… But in some way he was right, from my last clinical check up the doctor did say I was a bit underweight."
Wattson hemmed and nodded empathetically, despite knowing Wraith couldn't see her. "I see. And... why the 'no'?" she inquired while getting out of bed. She opened her bedroom door and greeted her cloud colored cat with a pat before making her way to the kitchen.
Wraith hesitated for a moment, grappling with her words. "Well, while I can fit it... it's more- how do I say it... 'form-fitting,'? and it makes me uncomfortable. Elliot likes the way it looks on me, no surprises there, but I'd rather not have people staring so much."
"Renee... is someone feeling insecure?" Wattson poked in a teasing manner.
"No... it's just-... are you coming or not?"
Wattson chuckled before her response "Of course I am! What time do you want to meet up?"
Wraith hummed in thought "2 sound good?"
"2 sounds good."
As the conversation continued about the plans for the outing, Wattson made herself a quick bowl of oatmeal as breakfast. "Oh, by the way; not that I mind, but why do you want me to come with you to the mall?" she asked curiously.
"Well, for starters, we haven't hung out in almost a week, and because I need someone's opinion on the dresses." Wraith explained.
"Although I like the idea of me being a fashion genius, wouldn't Elliott be the better choice for that?"
"No. Absolutely not. All he'll pick out are dresses that'll embarrass me more than the blue one."
"People are going to stare regardless of what you wear, Renee. You are quite eye-catching, after all." Wattson teased.
Wraith groaned in response "Thank you... I don't get how people enjoy being stared at. It's uncomfortable."
"You should be used to it by now."
I know, I know, but don't you find it unnerving that some creep may picture you in weird and sexual ways? I know you've seen some of those 'celebrity dating' articles about us and the other Legends."
"Yeah, I have. Although it is odd it doesn't bother me at all as long as they don't tell me about it in person. Besides, I... uh..." Caught up in her comfort, Wattson trailed off, realizing she was about to reveal something that would be both embarrassing and downright shameful to admit.
Wraith's curiosity was piqued, and she pressed for an answer. "Youuu, what?" she questioned in a playful tone.
"Uh, I- I think it's weird, but flattering in a way. You know? Being someone's fantasy. I mean, don't you look at Elliot that way?"
Wraith let out an exasperated sound, torn between amusement and reluctance. "Please don't tell him because he'll never shut up about it, but yes, yes I do. But he's also my... my-..."
"Yourrrr... your?" Wattson decided to get back at Wraith by playfully prodding while already knowing the answer.
"He's my boyfriend,"
"Bon boulot! You're getting better at that!"
"Thanks."
The conversation began to wind down and after they exchanged a few more pleasantries and logistical details about their upcoming mall outing before deciding to end the call.
"Alright, Nat. I'll see you at 2 then. Thanks for agreeing to come with me," Renee said gratefully.
"Of course, Renee! I'll be looking forward to it! See you soon!" Watton replied in kind.
After the phone call had ended she had about 2 hours to get ready so after she'd finished her breakfast she'd began to pick out an outfit before she showered. After picking out her outfit she laid and looked over her selection; Blue jeans, white running shoes and a baby blue blouse with her gold locket to top it off. Smiling down at the outfit she turned and marched her way into her bathroom for her shower.
The shower was brief and efficient, the last thing she wanted to do was fall into the comforting warmth of the cascading water and end up running late. After her shower she toweled off before shimmying into her underwear and going through the rest of her bathroom routine so she could start to dry and style her hair.
While brushing through her short golden locs she stared into the mirror and started to ponder if she should do her makeup. She wasn't a huge fan of it but, with the right amount of blush, her freckles would pop and that was probably her most liked feature.
Of course her freckles weren't her greatest obsession when it came to her appearance for no reason, it was because Crypto said he liked them in an attempt to return a compliment to her after she said something about his cybernetic jaw piece being cool.
She of course knew it was a bit silly to only do her makeup for the sole purpose of flattering Crypto, but the more she saw herself with it the more she used it. It wasn't that she was unhappy with her looks, it was quite the opposite, but she found some practical use for it when she learned how to apply it to have different features to stand out for different occasions so she could always look her best in all scenarios.
Ultimately, Wattson decided against the makeup as it'd set her back on time seeing as she'd have to drive about 15 minutes to the mall, and she liked to be at least 5 minutes early. So after getting her hair situated she put on her outfit she looked herself over in a mirror to inspect her attempt at fashion and that's when the sudden movement in her peripheral view caused her to turn and see her fluffy cat Nikola staring up at her.
"What do you think?" Wattson struck a pose. "Is this good?"
Nikola just stared at Wattson before looking around and then leaving to jump on her bed. Wottson sighed while walking over to her fluffy companion. She ran her hand through the thick coat of snow colored fur to which he purred with glee.
"You aren't much help, but at least you're cute."
[=X=][=X=]
"Hello Renee!" Wattons cheerfully greeted while approaching a dark haired woman wearing sunglasses. "Ready to get started?"
"Hey, Natalie!" Wraith returned the greeting although with much less enthusiasm but with the same amount of passion. "I'm about as ready as I'll ever be."
Wattson gave Wraith a quick hug "Worry not for the perfect dress waits and we'll find it in no time!" She said while pulling back.
"Thanks for the encouragement," Wraith replied. She adjusted her sunglasses and glanced at the bustling street to her side. "I'm still not the biggest fan of shopping. To many eyes, to many people. Hopefully no paparazzi messes with us."
"I'm sure they won't." Wattson took Wraith's arm and started leading her inside the mall. "Now then, let's go before you change your mind!"
As they strolled through the bustling mall, the duo found themselves in one of the many dress stores but this one was set apart by its luxury line of beautiful wedding gowns and other exotic dresses. Wattson's eyes sparkled with anticipation, while Wraith remained slightly guarded, observing their surroundings.
"Ooo! They're so pretty!" Wattson stated. "These will do, yes?"
Wraith raised an eyebrow. "Don't you think these dresses are a bit too fancy?"
"Nonsense, they're fine, and I'm sure they'll look even better on you!" Wattson exclaimed with unwavering enthusiasm.
"As long as it's not too revealing, I guess trying on a few wouldn't hurt."
"That's the spirit! So, what color are you planning on wearing?"
"Black."
"Black...? How about something more colorful? Something with a bit more pop, like that red one?" Wattson pointed to a mannequin elegantly dressed in a long, vibrant red dress.
Wraith instinctively folded her arms, skeptical of the bold choice. "That red is way too bright for my liking."
"Understandable, but can we just add it to a small pile of options that you can give it a try later if you have a change of heart?"
"Alright, but let's make sure the majority of the chosen dresses are still monotone or dark in color, that way I can at least have more low-key options."
"Deal! We'll find the perfect balance. Now, speaking of balance, what color tuxedo is Elliot wearing? Maybe we can find you a dress that compliments his look."
A small smile tugged at the corners of Wraith's lips. "He's actually wearing a black suit with a yellow vest and tie. He looked really good in it…" her voice mused at the end.
Wattson's eyes widened with excitement. "Oh! Maybe we could find you a dress to match! A touch of yellow would correlate very well with his outfit!."
"I suppose a subtle touch of yellow wouldn't hurt…"
"Merveilleux ! Oh and we'll also have to get some measurements and get it tailored once you've decided!"
"Right… the fun parts…"
[=X=][=X=]
It had been almost an hour of dress fittings and Wraith had started to loosen up and try on some different styles of dresses, some that she'd deem 'too fancy' or 'not my type' earlier. She was currently waiting on Wraith to put on a high slit black dress that had yellow designs on it.
Much to Wattson's pleasant surprise, Wraith was actually the one to pick out a lavish and bolder looking dress. It wasn't anything extremely revealing or fancy, but it was strapless which just added to its rather erotic appeal.
While waiting for Wraith to finish getting the dress on, Wattson decided to look around at all the other dresses. She didn't have a need for one as she already had for the event, but looking around for a potential new one wouldn't hurt.
While looking at one dress in particular, the red one from earlier, she took a step back, colliding with someone unexpectedly. She swiftly pivoted around to apologize, and her heart skipped a beat as a blend of queasiness and excitement washed over her.
"T-Tae?! H-how are you? I didn't anticipate seeing you here! My apologies for bumping into you, I wasn't paying attention!" Wattson quickly spoke
"Hello, Natalie, I'm just here to pick up some new SD cards and flash drives. I spotted you from outside and thought I'd come say hello. I apologize for startling you; I should have given you a heads-up," Crypto explained.
"No-no, I'm alright! And you're fine…! N-not like that! I'm just saying that the situation is fine. Not that you aren't, it's just that I was referring to the startling! Yes, the startling! Not that I'm startled, because I'm not!" Wattson stumbled over her words.
Crypto emitted something akin to a chuckle that was more like a puff of air. "Are you sure you're okay? Mirage is usually the one to ramble like that, and your face is turning pretty red. Are you running a fever?"
It suddenly dawned on Wattson that she hadn't actually moved away from him and was still standing very close in proximity, close enough to catch a whiff of his cologne and the lingering aroma of his earlier coffee.
"N-no, I'm not! It's just a bit hot! You know, humidity and all!" Wattson stated while hastily taking a step back. She started to feel fuzzy and the pit of her stomach started to turn with something that made her face burn which she desperately tried to hide by looking off in another direction.
"I see. By the way," Crypto said whilst reaching into his pocket to pull out his phone. "I got a new phone after my last one was damaged during the games. Would you like to be the first on the contacts?"
Wattson's heart practically leapt out of her chest at Crypto's offer. She tried to conceal her excitement but couldn't help the widening smile that graced her face. "S-sure! I'd love to!" she replied nervously.
As Crypto handed his phone to Wattson, their fingers gently brushed against each other as the device exchanged hands. Wattson hesitated for a moment, momentarily enchanted by the small connection. She quickly composed herself and entered her name and number into Crypto's phone, feeling a rush of nerves with every tap of the screen.
Before handing the phone back, she added a little blue heart and lightning bolt next to her name. When Crypto saw it, he gave a small smile. "Nice touch. I'll text you so you'll have my number…" He stated. "So, you're shopping for a dress, I'm assuming it's for the event."
"No. I'm actually here with Wraith. She wanted to get a new dress, and I'm supporting," Wattson replied.
"Ah, I see. What kind of dress are you wearing? Is it something like that one?" Crypto pointed to the red dress that Wattson was looking at moments before.
"N-no. Mine is nowhere near that pretty. What about you? What kind of suit are you wearing?"
"Just a plain black suit. Nothing fancy, although I heard it'd be hot out, so maybe I'll ditch the shirt."
"Not a bad idea. I wouldn't mind seeing you shirtless…"
"Really now?"
Wattson's face felt as if it was going to melt, but she managed to regain her composure enough to try and explain. "I-I didn't mean to say that! I mean, I did, but I meant as in—like—do what you will type of thing, yes! Not that I would or wouldn't want to see that, it was just me agreeing!"
"I'm I interrupting something?" a voice came from behind, causing Wattson to yelp.
"N-not at all!" Wattson halfheartedly shouted while spinning around to be met by Wraith wearing the dress she had picked out.
Wraith's gaze flickered between the two, and then a knowing smile played at the corners of her lips. "You sure? It sure does seem like I've stumbled upon a little moment here."
Wattson laughed nervously. "N-no. Crypto was just stopping by to say hello and to give me his new number!"
"Hello, Wraith," Crypto greeted.
"Hey," Wraith returned.
"Oh wow! You look marvelous, Renee! The dress looks stunning!" Wattson suddenly blurted to change the subject.
Wraith smiled, knowing full well what Wattson was doing but followed along anyway. "You think so? It covers a lot less than what I originally thought, but I think I'll take it."
"That's wonderful! And yes, it's even better than I thought!" Wattson double downed.
"The dress does suit you," Crypto agreed.
"Thanks. You should see Nat in hers," Wraith suggested.
Crypto looked at Wattson, whose face seemed to get redder by the second. "Really now, we were just talking about it. When do I get to see this dress?"
Wattson shifted "Well, um, I don't have any pictures so, you can see it next week I suppose."
"Or you could invite him over to model it for him." Wraith suggested and then Wattson gave her a look of something between horrified, disbelief and betrayal.
"I'm sure Wattson is a very busy woman and I wouldn't want to take away her time. That, and I could just wait until next week so there's no hassle." Crypto replied evenly.
"Don't worry, her calendar is clear until the event next week. I could come over to assist if needed." Wraith stated. "Does that sound good, Nat?"
Wattson had never seen Wraith smile this much. It wasn't a big one by any stretch of the imagination but the slight uptilt on the corners of her mouth was very much noticeable to Wattson. "I-uh, I wouldn't mind but I-"
"Then it's settled!" Wraith suddenly interrupted as she put an arm around Wattson. "She'll text you the time and date."
"Right…" Crypto said but continued to look at Wattson for further confirmation but it seemed she was more concentrated on the ground. "Then I'll be seeing you. Enjoy the rest of your day."
"Same to you." Wraith said.
After Crypto walked off Wattson grabbed Wraith as she spoke "W-why did you say all of that?!" She said in a panicked and almost whiny tone.
The small smile Wraith had started to widen as she placed a hand atop of Wattons' head "Oh c'mon, you know you want to, it was written all over your face. Besides, what's more important is why haven't you told me that you had a thing for Crypto."
"I-I don't know what you're talking about! I don't have a thing for him…!" Wattson defended a little too quickly as she pulled back "I mean, he's nice and all; and sure, he has a nice smile, handsome face, very nice to me, a joy to talk to and–... ok I may have a small crush."
"I knew it, why haven't you talked to him about it then? Don't tell me you're nervous."
"Of course I am! What if he takes it the wrong way and is weirded out? I wouldn't want to lose him over my stupid feelings."
"Ok, first off; your feelings are stupid. It's perfectly fine to like someone and secondly; I'm 100% sure he likes you as well. For as much as he talks and stays around you, you two might as well be attached at the hip during the games."
"Y-you think so? Do you actually think he does?"
"Yeah. I can tell just by the look he gets when he sees you. It may not be present in his face but his eyes light up when he stares at you."
"Okay, but how would I even go about doing such a thing? I can barely talk to him without getting all tingly and nervous."
"Butterflies… you hate to love 'em." Wraith said with a strained yet playful manner. "I'll go get out of this dress and maybe give you some pointers afterwards. Granted I'm not the best when it comes to that sappy stuff, but I think I picked up a few things from Elliot that could help."
"I guess that wouldn't be the worst thing in the world. If he was able to woo you then I think I could work on him since you both are the super-serious, stoic, loner type." Wattson jabbed
"Hey!" Wraith playfully defended. "I'm a stoic loner, he's a brooding geek. Nothing alike."
[END+++++END+++++END]