The next day is Halloween, and I’ve made my decision about the party.
“You …” Miranda stares at me, dressed in the red bodycon dress, red Prada heels, horns, and clip-on tail. I’ve even done my makeup, putting on a smoky cat eye and vibrant lips. Red glitter adorns both cheeks, and I’ve taken a razor to what was left of my hair. It’s now gelled up into a stylish but soft crest down the middle, gentle waves curving around my ears. “Look so freaking hot.” She clamps her mouth closed and just stares at me like she’s never seen me before.
I’m still fuming, but I’m also going stir crazy. Creeping around the halls and hiding in my room isn’t doing it for me.
I smile.
“So do you.” I gesture at Miranda’s tight, pink dress and coiffed blonde hair. Her makeup is flawless, long white gloves on her arms, gold rings glittering on her fingers. I haven’t completely forgotten that I was drugged at some point on Thursday, but I also don’t think I can survive Burberry Prep without her. Besides, it’s easier for me to hold onto trust than believe deceit from my friends.
“I’m kind of … in shock,” she continues, circling me and looking me up and down. “You look so freaking fierce.” She snaps her fingers in my general direction. “Devil Wears Prada-Scarlet Letter realness, hunty.” A genuine laugh escapes my throat as I smooth my palms down the front of my dress. It’s too tight, too short, and I’m pretty sure it would look better on Miranda’s thin form than my, uh, less-than-thin form, but I’m determined.
I’m going out tonight, and nothing’s going to stop me.
I’ve been banned from getting my phone back this weekend, so I don’t worry about Dad or whatever messages he may or may not have sent me. No, I’m going to focus on survival instead. I’m still leading the school in grades, and I’m already preparing for the orchestra auditions this Friday. If I can excel in my own ways, then I’ll keep my head down and endure whatever the Idols throw at me.