Lib Novel Page 1
1
DEBORAH
Deborah pulled at the strap of the midnight blue gown Cameron had convinced her to buy when they’d gone on their last-minute shopping spree before the big event. Its silk fabric glistened under the soft glow of the newly installed chandeliers of the Indigo Lounge.
“Jesus! Esme’s outdone herself this time! Would you look at this place?” she exclaimed, nudging Cameron in the ribs.
“Ouch, Debs. This isn’t Esme’s doing. Not a chance. This is what happens when you marry money. Speaking of money, you look a million dollars tonight, babes.”
“Less of thebabes, Cam. This thing is itchinglike crazy. I don’t know why I let you talk me into these things.”
“Because I have incredible taste?”
“Sure. You wouldn’t be seen dead in this, and you know it.”
“Tux all the way for me, kiddo,” Cameron laughed with a wink.
All around them, the revamped Indigo Lounge was buzzing with excitement. The day had finally arrived. It was Esme and Nora’s wedding, and Deborah’s closest circle of friends and half the city’s elite were there.
“Jeez! Take a look around, Cam. Isn’t that Jasmine Ryder? I’m fairly sure she’s running for election. Do you see her? The blonde in Chanel?”
“She’s gotta be on the wrong side if she’s wearing Chanel. I’m betting she’s one of Nora’s crowd.”
“Um… you wear designer labels all the time, Cam. What are you talking about?”
“Never. I’m the queen of thrifting.”
“Cam?” Deborah let out a mischievous giggle, her eyes closely examining the exquisite, embroidered detailing on her friend’s beautifully opulent suit. “I’m inclined to call bull on this one.” Her laughter rippled through the air,blending with the thrilling ambiance of the upscale event.
Despite Cameron’s joking around, Deborah, who usually prided herself on being calm and in control no matter what the situation, couldn’t help but feel a little nervous.
“This is freaking me out, Cam. It’s never been this crowded in here, right? Where’s Harper? She’ll clear my head. I need Harper. Like… now.”
“No clue, but Mia looks like she’s getting ready for a set. Oh, the pipes on that girl. What I wouldn’t give to be able to belt them out like that,” replied Cam as she raised her head above the crowd to get a better look at the singer.
With a sense of anticipation mingled with sheer excitement at two of her best buddies tying the knot, Deborah’s timid smile widened as she made her way through the packed bar.
“Catch you later, Debs. As far as the eye can see, there’s fruit ripe for picking. Momma needs her fucking VITAMINS!”
“Cam? Don’t you ever take a night off?
“Sure. Once. I think it was a Tuesday… back in 2016,” Cam retorted with a loud laugh, her voice bold and carefree.
“Very funny. Just slow down. It’s an open bartonight. Don’t get ahead of yourself,” Deborah cautioned, knowing her friend’s tendency to over-indulge at even the hint of a free drink.
“Did someone say champagne?” Cam replied with a cheeky wink as she crept off like a wolf looking for her next meal. Deborah stared in disbelief as she moved through the crowd and greeted Indigo regulars and acquaintances with kisses on the cheek (or the mouth), her charisma leading her straight into the jaws of an impending hangover.
Deborah turned her attention away from her fun-loving pal and spotted Esme and Nora. She felt as if her pride were about to take physical form and burst out of her chest when she noted the happiness in the newlyweds’ eyes. She crossed the room to join them.
“Esme, my darling. You look radiant. What a statement piece. Vera, right?” Deborah’s gaze swept over her friend, who stood in front of her in a floor-length lace gown, every square inch covered in intricate lace and beading.
“Vera who? Do you mean Nora’s cousin? No… it’s… what was it again, my love? Vanessa? Nope… um… Valerie? She’s lovely, by the way. Did you get to talk to her?” Esme’s pretty face turned into a frown asshe did her best to remember the name of yet another member of her new family.
“Es, my cousin’s name is Velma. But I think Debs is asking if your dress is Vera Wang, honey. And, yes, it is. Vintage Wang. And do you know what, Deborah? She’s a goddamn goddess in it. Am I right?” Nora asked with a grin.
“You’ve never been more right about anything in your life,” Deborah whispered with a playful smirk.
“Oh, Nora! You know I don’t know about these things. You’re lucky you got me out of my dungarees,” Esme exclaimed with a teasing laugh as she gestured to her high-fashion gown and curtseyed as far as the fabric would allow her to.