Chapter 8 CHAPTER 7

Katherine Garcia

As soon as I walk in, I close the door behind me and lean back against it for a second, taking a deep breath. I walk over to the closet and start going through my clothes, pulling out hangers and pushing aside pieces that don't fit the mood for tonight.

I want something pretty but comfortable. Something that makes me feel good about myself.

After a few minutes, I find a black dress I've always liked. I lay it folded on the bed and continue searching for something to wear on my feet until I find a pair of sturdy, low-heeled sandals with a thicker heel. I set everything aside, grab a towel, and head to the bathroom.

In the bathroom, I slowly undress and leave the towel on the counter. The shower is long, almost a ritual. I wash my hair carefully, let the hot water relax my shoulders, and take my time caring for my body. Every gesture helps ease the tension that has built up throughout the day.

Taking advantage of the steam from the shower, I grab my razor. I start by shaving my intimate area; there isn't much work to do since I always keep it shaved, but I like the feeling of smooth skin. With precise movements, I move on to my underarms and finally glide the razor over my legs, making sure I don't miss a single spot.

After rinsing off and stepping out of the shower, I feel the freshness of being thoroughly clean. I finish the ritual by applying moisturizer all over my body. The cream glides easily over my skin, restoring its softness and leaving behind a trail of fragrance that seems to seal in all the care I've given myself.

When I'm done, I wrap myself in the towel and return to the bedroom. I dry my hair with the blow-dryer, running my fingers through the wavy strands until they're loose and shiny. Then I open the drawer beneath the sink and choose makeup that's light but striking enough for the evening. Something that enhances my features without looking too heavy.

With everything ready, I return to the closet, choose a simple black lingerie set, and put on the black dress I'd left on the bed. The structured knit fabric glides over my skin, hugging my curves perfectly. The wrap design has a V-neckline that enhances my breasts, offering the perfect support without sacrificing elegance.

The dress gently defines my waist and flows into a light skirt that ends at just the right length to flatter my thighs, giving me a striking and feminine look. It fits my body well, supports my bust firmly, and leaves me feeling comfortable. I slip on the thin-strapped sandals, adjust the final details, and walk over to the bedroom mirror.

I stop in front of my reflection and surprise myself.

I look beautiful. Much more than I expected. The truth is, I feel incredibly sexy; the black dress looks as though it was sculpted onto my body, highlighting the shape of my bust and the powerful width of my thighs in a way that leaves me breathless.

I slowly turn around, taking in the entire look, the way the fabric hugs every plus-size curve perfectly without hiding anything. A smile forms effortlessly, carrying a hint of mischief and plenty of satisfaction.

I haven't felt like this in a long time—confident, whole, and completely in control of myself.

Maybe going out tonight is exactly what I needed.

"Are you ready, girl? Matteo is already waiting downstairs," Amanda announces as she walks into the bedroom.

Matteo is a close friend of ours. Gay, married to Adrian, another dear friend. The two of them adopted two children, and for a long time, I was the one who took care of them while they worked.

Amanda is married too, with a son, and I helped raise him from the time he was little. In a way, I've always been surrounded by families that worked out.

Matteo is the kind of man who attracts attention effortlessly. Tall, tan, with a well-built body, recently dyed gray hair, and light blue eyes. Handsome enough to confuse a lot of people—several women have already hit on him.

"I'm ready," I reply. "Let's go."

I grab my small purse and sling it over my shoulder. I take only the essentials: my phone, ID, and money. Before leaving, I give one last spritz of my favorite perfume on my wrists and behind my ears, a distinctive scent that complements my moisturized skin and the promising night ahead.

"You look so fucking hot," Amanda comments, completely unfiltered.

I smile, a little embarrassed.

"I know this might sound stupid, but I feel hot. Really fucking hot."

She laughs loudly.

"There's nothing stupid about that. That's exactly how you're supposed to feel. You look perfect. An absolute knockout."

I look at her and notice the short romper she chose, with a plunging V-neckline in the front.

"You look really fucking hot too. That outfit looks perfect on you."

"Thank you. Now come on."

She takes my hand and pulls me out of the bedroom. We carefully make our way downstairs and find Matteo waiting for us.

He whistles, looking me up and down with that critical eye of someone who understands fashion and aesthetics.

"Finally, the princesses decided to make an appearance," he teases with a grin. "You both look amazing. Kath, if I were into what you're offering, I'd propose to you tonight. That dress worked magic on your bust. You look like a curvy goddess."

Amanda bursts out laughing.

"Right?" she says, amused. "She's a total fucking bombshell!"

I laugh, feeling my face grow warm.

"Thanks, guys," I say sincerely. "And you look handsome tonight too, Matteo."

He strikes an exaggerated pose.

He's wearing dark jeans, a white shirt, and a leather jacket that completes the look with effortless charm.

"I know," he replies with a wink. "I always look amazing."

"You're ridiculous," Amanda shoots back, laughing. "Come on, or we won't get inside until after one in the morning."

"Agreed. Let's go."

We leave quietly so we don't wake my parents, who are already asleep. We get into the car; I sit in the back while Matteo starts the engine.

"I'm excited," Amanda says. "It's been a long time since I've danced. If my mother weren't traveling, I would've brought David."

David is her husband. A good, quiet man who makes her happy. That's always been enough for me.

"Next time, we'll make plans with everyone," Matteo suggests.

"So I can be the third wheel?" I shoot back. "No, thanks."

"We wouldn't spend the whole night making out," Amanda comments. "But you're right. I'd be glued to him all night."

"Then it's just the three of us," Matteo concludes. "And who knows? Maybe our dear Kath will have a little fun tonight."

"Yes!" Amanda says excitedly. "At least a few kisses."

I stare at her in disbelief.

"I just want to dance and try to relax. I'm not looking for anyone."

"You're a terrible liar," she replies. "We know you miss having someone. If somebody shows interest, enjoy it. Tonight is about you."

I let out a sigh.

She's not wrong. I always put work ahead of everything else. I miss the attention, the desire, the feeling of being chosen.

"How about this?" Matteo joins the conversation. "If someone shows interest, go for it. It can be just one night. Sometimes that's enough."

I take a deep breath.

"All right," I finally give in. "I can try. But I'm not getting my hopes up."

They both look at me seriously.

"Don't start," Amanda warns.

"Okay. I promise I won't think like that."

Deep down, I still find it hard to believe anyone will be interested. Even so, I decide not to close myself off. Maybe no one will come along. Maybe someone will. Either way, I just want to enjoy the night.

Tonight, my only obligation is to have fun.