Evelyn sat at her desk, glancing at the clock for the fifth time in ten minutes. It was finally Friday, and she’d avoided close contact with Sandra for two days since their parking lot altercation. Derek, her bodyguard, provided some comfort, but the knowledge of Sandra’s lurking presence, feigning innocence, still sent chills down her spine.
Evelyn sighed and gathered her belongings. She’d promised Rayna a shopping trip, the perfect excuse for an early departure. After recent events, time with her best friend was exactly what she needed. Besides, they had to find outfits for the high school reunion the next day.
She texted Rayna, letting her know she was on her way, and walked to her car, where Derek waited. Having a bodyguard felt strange—like her life had become a thriller movie. But given Sandra’s behavior, she was grateful for Derek’s insistence.
By the time she reached the mall, Rayna was waiting at the entrance, her usual big smile in place, though Evelyn sensed something was amiss.
“Hey, you okay?” Evelyn asked after their hug.
“Sure,” Rayna replied as they entered the brightly lit mall. “So, where’s the card?” she asked, her enthusiasm forced.
Evelyn laughed, producing the card Derek had given her. “He said we can buy as much as we want—not just for the reunion.”
Rayna exclaimed, “How does it feel to be with such a wealthy guy? I know you’re not with him for the money, but some people get love without money, some get both with less-than-attractive partners, but you’ve got the whole package! How does it feel?” Evelyn giggled.
“Wonderful,” she admitted.
“I bet,” Rayna said as they entered their favorite boutique, a shop filled with stylish dresses perfect for the reunion.
Sifting through the racks, Evelyn asked, “So, what’s the update? How’s it going with Ethan?”
Rayna’s smile faded, and she sighed heavily. “Ethan’s driving me crazy, Evie,” she said, her expression troubled.
Evelyn’s concern was evident. “He’s still not willing to see you?”
Rayna groaned. “He’s not talking to me. I’ve tried, but nothing. I’m starting to think he means it about moving on. I don’t know what to do.”
Evelyn searched for comforting words. “If it’s meant to be, he’ll come around,” she said calmly. “Maybe he needs time. You understand why he was upset; anyone in his shoes would be triggered. Derek said that when Ethan’s hurt, he shuts people out, but he always comes back.”
Rayna shook her head, her frustration palpable. “Maybe this is different. Maybe I’m not his type physically, he doesn’t like me. I’m at my wit’s end. Maybe I’m wasting my time and should move on.”
Evelyn paused, holding up a soft burgundy dress. She glanced at Rayna’s reflection. “If anyone can figure this out, it’s you, Rayna. You’ve got this. Just take a step back, breathe, and give him some space. It’ll work out.”
“What if he marries someone else while I’m doing that? Sarah told me he went on a date last night,” Rayna said, tears welling. Evelyn embraced her, understanding her distress.
“What’s yours will always be yours, Ray. It doesn’t matter if it takes a year or two…”
“Or six? I don’t want to wait that long while he’s… you know,” Rayna cut in, giggling. Evelyn laughed, amused by her friend’s ability to find humor amidst tears.
Before Evelyn could respond, they heard a familiar voice. “Rayna!”
Evelyn’s heart sank. It was Sandra.
Rayna’s jaw tightened, but Evelyn placed a hand on her arm. “Act normal,” she whispered.
Rayna rolled her eyes but forced a smile as Sandra approached, impeccably dressed for a casual shopping trip. “Oh, what a coincidence! Shopping for the reunion too?” Sandra asked, ignoring Evelyn.
Rayna smiled, though it felt strained. “Yes, just picking out a few things.”
Sandra laughed, her voice light but sharp. “Me too! My fiancé, Derek, was too busy, so he gave me his card. Isn’t he sweet?” Evelyn barely suppressed a snort. Rayna caught her eye, and they exchanged a knowing glance.
“You’re so lucky,” Rayna said, her tone dripping with sarcasm.
Sandra smiled cruelly. “I know, right? I was here with Derek’s mother. She’s wonderful, and I can’t wait to be her daughter-in-law. No matter how many women try to seduce him, Derek will always be way out of their league.”
Evelyn, amused by the irony, maintained her composure. “I’ll check out the fitting rooms,” she said, heading deeper into the store. Whatever Sandra tried, Evelyn knew she had Rayna’s loyalty—something Sandra wouldn’t understand.
Once Evelyn was gone, Rayna’s patience snapped. “Why the snide remarks, Sandy? Why did you ignore Evie? Haven’t you resolved things with her?”
Sandra’s eyes narrowed. “Resolve things? After she tried to drug me and set me up with Michael? I don’t think so.”
Rayna shook her head, afraid of losing her temper.
Sandra smirked. “Why are you here with Evelyn instead of me?”
Rayna’s expression hardened. “Because Evelyn’s more than a gossip buddy or someone I ask for favors. She’s my friend, and she knows me better than you do. That’s why I prefer her company,” Rayna snapped. She turned and walked away, leaving Sandra fuming. Evelyn, in the changing room, missed the exchange but would have enjoyed Sandra’s unraveling. Rayna joined her, a triumphant smile on her face.
“Can you believe that snake asked why I was with you instead of her? You should have seen her face!”
Evelyn grinned, showing Rayna the dress she’d chosen. “Tell me everything.”
As they laughed, Sandra glared at the changing room door. She’d had enough; it was time to get rid of Evelyn, with or without Michael’s help.