Chapter 84 - Chapter 83

@International_Pen

((( CLAIRE )))

If he'd introduce me to his parents, I want them to see the real me.

I went for a quick bath and rummaged through the closet. I was searching for something he has not given. I took the chest box waiting at the corner. It has my old dresses that were only used for special occasions.

Cockroaches emerged quickly when I opened the box. I was never afraid of those. The box also smelled like mothballs and musty from being kept too long. Never mind.

I took a candid soft hand-me-down pink dress that I got from my mom. It has also been my prom dress.

"Perfect," I smiled widely at myself.  

The dress still fitted my slim body and thank God I had a natural snow-white skin so the color suited me well. Girls envied my color, especially Nadine. But I looked deadly pale whenever I don't wear any lipstick on. I put on some makeup and braided my hair into a circular twirled bun.

Somebody knocked so I hurriedly took the 3-inched promenade heels, put them on, and gave myself one final look before the tall mirror.

This was who I am.  

I suddenly remembered my mom.  

We looked alike.

I breathed heavily once more and hoped Derick wouldn't get angry at my little rebellion.  

"I hope…" Ma stopped taking when she saw me descending at the staircase.

Her face suddenly lit Up.

"Clarita!"

Derick also stood suddenly and looked at me too long that I almost thought he was mad at what I wore. But he smiled.

"Don't block the way," Dexter feigned anger as he brushed past me.

But he whispered something before he could walk away.

"Just tell me if you already feel smothered with Derick. I'll confront him for you."

My eyes widened a little.  

Did Dexter really say that?

"Be safe," he said once more.

I was tearful at his words but I kept my emotions at bay. He was usually cold-hearted.

I walked slowly towards Ma and Derick with little uncertainty at what he would say.

"I'm sorry I wore-" I stuttered.

"Shhh," he smiled again.

"You're still so beautiful either way."  

@International_Pen