18

Elena brightened. “I’d love to. Should we go to Aurelia Grand Mall? Your mother’s place always has the best options.”

“Perfect,” Kendra said.

They tidied up the last bits together, then headed out.

Employees watching her as she walked with Elena, bodyguards trailing behind them.

In the car, the city lights gliding past, Elena asked, “What style are you thinking for the gown?”

Kendra kept her hands on the wheel. “Elegant but confident. Flowing silk maybe. Nothing too safe like before.”

“The midnight blue ones always look stunning on you,” Elena offered. “Or that deep burgundy.”

The drive to Aurelia Grand Mall was relaxed. As they reached one of the largest and most prestigious malls in the city, Kendra parked the car in the garage, they both stepped out, jamming the car door behind them.

Its grand entrance glowed with fountains and elegant lighting. Kendra’s mother had built it into a landmark, and stepping inside always felt like a quiet homecoming.

They took the escalator to the premier fashion floor. Kendra browsed slowly through the first boutique, running her fingers over luxurious fabrics.

She pulled out a midnight blue silk gown with an off-shoulder neckline.

“What do you think of this one, Elena?” she asked.

Elena studied it. “Beautiful drapes. The color will catch the light perfectly at the gala. Try it on.”

In the fitting room, Kendra changed carefully.

She stepped out, turning in front of the three-way mirror. The silk flowed with her movements.

Elena adjusted the shoulder gently. “It fits you so well. How does it feel? Is it comfortable for walking and sitting through the evening?”

Kendra smoothed the fabric. “It feels good, light but elegant.”

They discussed accessories.

“Diamond drops would be perfect,” Elena suggested. “Subtle but sparkling under the chandeliers.”

Kendra tried on a few more options, including a rich burgundy gown. She emerged in it, twirling once.

“This one has more drama. What do you think?”

Elena smiled. “It’s bold and beautiful. But the midnight blue still edges it out for the gala. It photographs like starlight.”

After nearly an hour of careful trying, discussing hems, necklines, and how each moved, Kendra decided on the midnight blue. They had it wrapped and bagged.

As they walked through a scenic atrium with beautiful lighting and a fountain, Kendra paused with excitement in her eyes.

“Elena, could you take a few photos of me in the gown? The light here is lovely.”

“Of course madame,” Elena smiled.

They both entered, the workers bowed in greetings, helped Kendra with the dress and make ups.

Elena took Kendra’s Iphone from her bag to take the photos.

Kendra posed naturally — first by the fountain with a soft smile, the gown cascading elegantly; then by a railing with a confident posture, city views behind her; a few more with gentle turns and relaxed expressions.

“These look wonderful,” Elena said, showing the screen.

“You're so beautiful, Miss Ree.” Elena remarked.

Kendra kept sliding, checking the photos. She grinned, when was the last time she did this? She's glad she did it and everything that was doing her didn’t even show on her face, she looks like the happy old Kendra, the woman she used to be.

Back at the penthouse, after thanking Elena warmly and sending her home, Kendra hung the gown carefully.

She changed into silk pajamas, sat in her dimmed bedroom, selected her favorite photo — poised by the fountain, radiant yet serene — and posted it on her TikTok and I*******m with the caption:

“Life has been good lately. Grateful for new beginnings and quiet strength. #MovingForward#”

“Jesus!” She grinned. Comments poured in as if they've been expecting her to post:

“You look incredible, Kendra! That gown is everything!”

“Queen energy! So happy to see you shining.”

“Stunning as always. The new chapter suits you perfectly.”

"Don't go back to that motherfucker, he doesn't deserve you!"

“Gorgeous! Keep glowing.”

“Ouuu, so sweet.”

"I pray you get everything you desire in life!"

“Amen.” She smiled brightly.

“Baby girl, Sisterhood, brotherhood, we're all proud of you.” She tapped on the reply of the comment.

“Richard doesn't deserve her at all.”

“Even as a man, I'd cherish her with all she has done for me.”

Hundreds of likes and supportive messages followed.

Kendra lay on her back smiling, her phone still in her grip, buzzing with notifications.

The day’s emotions—the slow conversation with Elena, the shopping, the mall moment she had brushed off, lingered.

She checked her phone again, a notification popped up, a message from an unknown number.

She opened the message to read.

[You might have snatched everything you gave me back, but I promise you, I'll achieve more than you have.]

“Let's see Richard.”Kendra said, her lips curved bitterly.