After That Night

Whitney’s POV

I returned to New York after five years living in L.A. Nothing has changed since I left here, the buildings, streets, and people were just as I left them. Glancing at myself in the mirror for one last time. I was wearing a silver dress that sparkled in the daylight, and a white fluffy short coat with heels that were a bit too high. I looked like a hooker, but it would all be worth it when I accomplished my mission.

My phone buzzed, and I quickly dug it out of my handbag. Ashley’s name popped up on my phone. Without hesitation, I answered, “I’m on my way. Don’t get your panties in a twist.” I said as I grabbed my bag and keys.

“Bitch, you had to be here fifteen minutes ago. If I end up in jail today for murder, it would be on your hands.” Her voice was laced with annoyance.

I couldn’t stop my laughter from escaping. “Dude, calm down. I’m staying a block away from the plaza. I will be there in just a few to save you.” I made my way into the elevator and pressed the button for the ground floor. “It took me a while to find the perfect outfit.”

“I can’t wait to see what you decided to wear. But please just hurry. This woman is driving me nuts.” She let out a sigh.

“Yeah, yeah. See you in a few, bye.” Disconnecting the call, I threw my phone into my bag and stepped out of the elevator.

Time to save my best friend from her evil mother-in-law. My honest opinion, I have no idea how she puts up with that woman. But she does, for the sake of her love for her soon-to-be husband, Andy. How he survived with her for his entire life, only he would know the secret of not wanting to kill her himself.

As I made my way down the street towards the plaza, prying eyes were on me the entire way. My dress shimmered in the sunlight, and my purple and pink hair was as vibrant as when I first coloured it. Don’t blame the people for staring, I did, in fact, look like I was on my way to stand on a corner and earn a living. Little did they know I was a successful plastic surgeon.

If only they knew why I was dressed like this, they would laugh and encourage me. But I knew well enough that New York was full of judgmental people and wouldn’t want to hear your reasons. I never did care what people thought of me, especially when I decided to dye my hair two different colors. As a surgeon, it raises eyebrows, but it also makes my clients comfortable when they want to change their appearance. I loved my job, don’t get me wrong. But sometimes it gets too much. So many people want to change their looks, I didn’t mind, though; it paid my bills.

Reaching the Plaza, I looked up at the building, “Still the same.” I said to myself with a smile. “Let the show begin.” I stepped through the Plaza’s main doors and looked around. Then I spotted Ashley. I waved at her with a smirk playing on my face, gesturing for her to look at my outfit. I spun around, showing off the entire look.

“Oh. My. She is going to freak when she sees you.” She covered her mouth with her hands, “You look like you’re looking for a quick buck.”

“That was the look I was going for.” I stepped closer to her and wrapped my arms around her, taking Ashley into my embrace. “It’s so amazing to see you. You have no idea how much I missed you.”

“Same. I’m so happy you’re back. Life has been boring not having you by my side.” She stepped back, looking slightly up to meet my gaze, “It was a nice touch with the heels, though. You’re very intimidating, and this makes it times ten.”

A smirk played on my face, “Shall we start this fun game?” Ashley just smiled and grabbed my hand, and we made our way to the ceremony hall. I looked around, amazed at how beautiful this place still is. I only visited this place once, and that was when I was like five, but I still remember it like it was yesterday. “So, where is Motherzilla?” Ashley pointed discreetly to her mother-in-law’s direction. She was yelling at one of the staff members, then the woman walked away crying. “Shit,” I said softly, but Ashley heard me.

“Don’t chicken out, please,” Ashley begged.

“Oh, no. This is going to be one of my happiest days ever.” I smiled and walked over to her mother-in-law. “Miss Gambino, I presume.” I stuck out my hand for a handshake.

She looked me up and down with her judgy eyes, then she rolled her eyes. If she rolled them any harder, it might have ended in the back of her head. I lowered my hand, clearing, seeing that she was not willing to touch me, “And you are?” She asked with a judgmental tone.

I smiled at her, “Well, Ma’am, I’m the best friend of your daughter-in-law. And I wanted to get to know you. Wanted to get to know the woman who is going to be part of my friend’s life.”

She let out a sigh, “I have a wedding to plan, there isn’t time for me to chat…” Her eyes glided over me once more, “With anyone.” She made her way past me and went to yell at other staff members of the Plaza.

Crossing my arms over my chest, I smiled. Ashley walked over to me and gave me a ‘clearly you pissed her off’ look. “What did you say to her?” She asked, trying to keep herself from laughing.

“Not much. Just that I wanted to get to know her. But clearly, she didn’t feel the same way.” I looked at Ashley and burst out laughing. She joined me, laughing.

“You are really something else. Do you know that?” Ashley said, then turned to look at me, “So, you’re joining us tonight at our favourite bar?”

“I’m not sure. Was planning on reading a book or just soaking in the bath.” I said with a steady tone, and Ashley looked at me with disbelief written all over her face. Laughing once more, and touched her arm, “Don’t worry. I’ll be there.”

“Good. But I really hope you will not be wearing,” She gestured to my outfit, “that.”

“Hey. Maybe I want to be the center of attention tonight, and not just by you guys.” Ashley’s eyes widened, “I’m kidding, don’t take everything I say seriously. Please. I know I’ve been gone for five years, but I haven’t changed. I’m still the sarcastic, pain in the ass friend you know and love.” I gave her a warm smile.

Ashley shook her head, “Well,” She turned and looked in the direction her mother-in-law went, “Think I’m in the clear… For now. I’ll see you tonight. Wear something cute.” She gave me a tight hug, and she was off. I let out a sigh as I smile, I turned around and made my way out of the Plaza.

Looking for my phone in my bag, my attention was full on my bag. I walked into what felt like a brick wall. I groaned and looked up, but I was met by the most handsome face I have ever seen in the streets of New York. Meeting his dark brown gaze, he leaned in and then brushed a stand of hair behind my ear. He was muscular, could see he went to the gym on a daily basis. His suit, hugging his body, showed that clearly.

“Are you okay? You walked into me with great force.” He spoke, then straightened. His voice was deep and soothing at the same time. Blushing, I looked away. “Interesting choice in clothes.”

Shit, I forgot I was wearing this, “I… It’s not…” Why was I so nervous? I have never been nervous in front of a man before.

He chuckled, “Cat got your tongue, Little Daisy?”

Meeting his gaze again, I took a breath, “I apologize. I wasn’t looking where I was going, but I will keep focused. Sorry again.” Saying in a rush. Then I walked past him, and I could feel his eyes burning a hole through my skull. What was wrong with me? I have never been nervous around anyone before, not even my own parents. Who was he, and why did he make me feel that way? And what’s with the weird nickname? Fuck.

“See you around, Little Daisy.” His voice is calm. I looked back to see him waving at me, “Keep your focus in front of you, don’t want you walking into anyone else.” I turned my attention to in front of me.

After what felt like hours of walking, I finally reached my apartment building.