“Then let’s finish quickly because we need to hit the mall for some shopping,” I said,feeling my own excitement build. Helping my friend plan her romantic reunion was exactly the distraction I needed.
It felt good keeping busy with organizing Nate’s apartment. After everything Nate and Eleanor had done for me,this was the least I could do.Nate was even starting a business here just to be close to Eleanor while helping pack’s economy. Eleanor told me how he was expanding his family’s business into Harbor Bay,creating jobs for pack members and strengthening ties between our communities.
Once we finished arranging the furniture and stocking the kitchen,Elle and I headed to the mall for our shopping expedition.
We went straight to a gorgeous high-end lingerie boutique.Eleanor chose a stunning crimson corset set with matching negligee that would perfectly complement her warm skin tone.
After watching her try on several options,I decided to treat myself to a white corset set adorned with light blue ribbon details and exquisite lace. I’d always loved beautiful lingerie,even when there was no one to appreciate it but me and my wolf.
When we approached the checkout counter,I placed my hand on Elle’s arm.
“Elle,you’ve been amazing to me through everything,so no arguing.This lingerie is going to be my gift to you and Nate.”
“You’re insane,Caroline,absolutely not,” Eleanor protested,shaking her head firmly. “This is ridiculously expensive. I can’t accept it.”
“You can and you will,” I countered,leaving no room for argument.Rory rumbled approvingly in my mind,agreeing that our pack sister deserved this token of appreciation. “Or are you going to offend me and my wolf?” I added with a smile.
Eleanor’s eyes softened. “Oh,bestie,alright. Thank you! Nate won’t know what hit him when he sees me in this,will he?”
“You’re a knockout no matter what,girl,” I assured her,squeezing her shoulder affectionately. “Your mate won’t stand a chance.”
We left the lingerie store and continued shopping for the other items Eleanor would need for her romantic evening. We walked through the mall,picking up candles,wine,and even some small gifts for Liam. As we headed toward the exit,laden with shopping bags,I heard a familiar voice calling out.
“Miss Bennett? Caroline Bennett?”
I turned around,immediately recognizing Ava,the saleswoman from the dress boutique.
Caroline’s POV
Ava walked over with a big smile.
“How are you both doing?” She looked at Elle and me. “Caroline,you have to see this new dress we just got in! It would look amazing on you. Just come take a quick look!”
“Now I’m curious too,” Elle said,pulling me toward the store. “Let’s check it out.”
I sighed but smiled. Shopping with Elle was always fun,and I was a bit curious about this dress.
Ava went to the back and came back with a dress bag. When she unzipped it,I couldn’t help gasping. It was a beautiful cocktail dress in deep green that would match my eyes. It had off-shoulder sleeves,a sweet neckline that wasn’t too low,and a fitted top that flowed into a knee-length skirt. The back had a small teardrop cutout that showed just enough skin.
“Try it on. Right now,” Elle ordered,pushing me forward.
“Elle,come on,” I protested,though I was already touching the soft fabric. “Where would I even wear something this fancy? I hardly go out anymore.”
“Nate’s coming back today,and we’re all going dancing next weekend,” Elle said with that look I knew meant no arguing. “No excuses.”
“Since you’re planning a night out,I have the perfect dress for you too,Eleanor,” Ava said excitedly,making Elle clap with joy.
I took the dress to the fitting room,watching how it sparkled in the light. When I put it on,I was surprised how well it fit,showing off my waist and legs while making my blonde hair shine. Even though I was usually tired from being a mom,I felt pretty for the first time in ages.
When I stepped out,Elle and Ava just stared,their eyes wide.
“Do a slow turn,Carrie,” Elle instructed,twirling her finger in the air.
I turned around,feeling confident in the dress. When I finished my spin,I noticed someone else watching me. My face turned red instantly.
“No wonder Alpha Draven’s trying so hard to win you back,Caroline. You look amazing in that dress,” Joseph Taylor said boldly.
Joseph was standing behind Elle and Ava,checking me out. Elle turned around,smiling at his typical behavior.
“And she hasn’t tried the shoes yet! I have just the right pair,” Ava rushed off to get them.
“What about you,Eleanor? Aren’t you going to try yours on?” Joseph flashed his charming smile. “Come on,ladies. Since you both have mates,at least let me enjoy the view.” He grinned like the flirt he was.
Ava came back with some strappy heels for me and gave Elle her dress. Elle decided to play along with Joseph’s flirting.
I saw Joseph checking out Ava too,he really had no shame.
“Sure,I’ll try mine on. I want compliments too,” Elle laughed as she went to change.
I put on the green heels with crystal details that wrapped around my ankles. They made me much taller and my legs look longer.
Rory purred happily in my mind. We looked good.
Elle came out wearing a beautiful champagne-colored dress that seemed to float around her. Her rose gold sandals wrapped up her legs,making her look like a goddess.
Joseph whistled while Ava clapped excitedly.
“You both look stunning,” Joseph said,then turned to Ava. “And you,beautiful,have great taste,making my friends look even better. What’s your name?” His voice got deeper and more flirty.
“I’m Ava,” she said professionally,but blushed when Joseph kissed her hand. Elle and I shared a knowing look.
Joseph was definitely handsome. He was tall with broad shoulders,blonde hair that fell in his face that he kept brushing away in a flirty way,and mischievous green eyes. He was the same age as Draven and Ryan,but unlike them,he was proud to be a player who never wasted time when he saw a pretty girl.
“Well,Ava,you have great taste,” he said,openly checking her out. She was beautiful,with her fit body and confident way of standing.
“If you were getting a dress for yourself from here,which would you pick?” he asked.
Ava was tall and slim,with shoulder-length light brown hair and pretty amber eyes. She smiled at him suspiciously.
“Are you shopping for your girlfriend?” she asked directly.
“Don’t have one,sweetheart. But I want to get something nice for a friend,” Joseph said with his most charming smile.
Ava went to get a dress while we talked quietly.
“Is this how you pick up girls at the mall?” Elle asked straight out.
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