Getting ready

She stands in front of the full-length mirror, turning slightly to catch the way the purple fabric hugs her curves. The dress is new—bought specifically for tonight, for the date they'd talked about after the conversation about boundaries. The neckline dips lower than she usually wears on a date, but she's not the same girl who hesitated at booty shorts anymore.

She runs her hands down her hips, smoothing the fabric, then reaches back to check the zipper is secure. Her hair falls in soft waves over her shoulders, makeup done with care—not for the algorithm, but for him.

She steps back, takes in the full image. The dress, the heels, the way her collarbones catch the light.