The Boutique

The brunette's graceful hands moved up to Sharon's neck, adjusting the neckline a little, her fingers brushing the teenager's throat. Maybe a necklace here, Monica mused behind her. A thin gold chain, I think, with a small red stone to match the outfit. She gathered Sharon's hair in her hands and spread it out over her shoulders, fluffing it up a little. Of course, if you really want to make an impact, she went on, you should get your hair done, you know, rough it up a little, and maybe some darker highlights. Give you more contrast. She rested her hands on Sharon's shoulders, their eyes meeting in the mirror.

Thank you so much, said Sharon. It's the loveliest clothes I've ever owned.

You're very welcome, said Monica gravely. Just promise me you'll wear it to school, upstage those girls you told me about.

Sharon imagined with dark glee the look on Mallory's face when she showed up looking like this. The thought made her feel warm inside. What brand is it? she asked Monica, anticipating the question she'd be getting. I didn't see any labels.

Of course not, replied Monica. Quality pieces like these don't have labels. Anyone who matters will recognise it when they see it; those who don't, aren't anyone you'd care to impress anyway.

Sharon took a long, last look at herself in the mirror, twisting around to get a look at herself from any angle she could. Then, temporarily satisfied, she carefully began to take off her new clothes. She folded them neatly, first the top, then the skirt, and put them back in the silk paper. She was just reaching for her jeans when she noticed that Monica was eyeing her speculatively.

What is it? she asked, feeling a faint blush spread across her cheeks at being scrutinised so closely. And for another reason as well, something she couldn't quite identify.

I think we need to accessorise a little, said Monica. Some nice lingerie, I believe.

Sharon blushed even more, this time from embarrassment. She was wearing a very ordinary pair of cotton panties, and the only bra she had right now that fit her growing breasts properly, and as a result, was somewhat grey from having been washed over and over again. Monica, she was sure, would ever have been caught dead in something like this.