Broken dreams by Reynolds

the invitation

The soft hum of traffic outside was the only sound in the luxurious penthouse where Anna and Claire sat facing each other. Anna's extravagant lifestyle was a visible contrast to Claire's modest one. The room was filled with the scent of fresh flowers, and the golden glow of the afternoon sun filtered through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Claire's focus was solely on her best friend, Anna, who was busy trying to convince her to attend the party of the year.

Claire, you have to come with me tonight, Anna insisted, her eyes sparkling with excitement. She tossed a lock of her perfectly styled hair over her shoulder, a gesture that seemed to emphasize the difference between them. Everyone who's anyone is going to be there.

Claire shook her head, frowning. Anna, you know I'm not comfortable at those kinds of events. I wouldn't fit in. I'd be mistaken for a maid..

Anna sighed dramatically. Nonsense! You're beautiful, Claire, and you have more grace and charm than half the people who'll be at that party. Besides, she leaned in closer, a mischievous smile playing on her lips, it's for Kendrick Harold. You know, the Kendrick Harold? His father is the Harold Enterprises' magnate.

 The party is to welcome him back after years of traveling. This is a huge deal. Remember you promised to attend the party with me, Anna raised a brow supporting her statement.

Claire felt a pang of discomfort. Kendrick Harold was a name she had only seen in tabloids and business magazines. The son of one of the wealthiest men in the country, he was the epitome of everything she felt she was not. Claire was a photographer who abandoned her dreams for the sake of keeping her only family business running, leading a quiet, simple life. The thought of mingling with the elite was terrifying.

I don't think I can do it, Anna,Claire said softly. I appreciate the offer, but it's just not my kind of place. I promise to make it to a more simpler event . Claire bow her head hoping Anna would wave it off.

Anna wasn't ready to give up. She stood up abruptly, pulling Claire to her feet and dragging her towards the bedroom. You're coming, and that's final! I won't take no for an answer.

Before Claire could protest, Anna had already started rummaging through her closet, pulling out dresses that looked as if they belonged on runways rather than in a wardrobe. Claire watched helplessly as Anna held up gown after gown, each more dazzling than the last.

This one! Anna finally said, holding up a stunning emerald green dress. It was a floor-length satin gown with a plunging neckline and a slit that ran daringly high up one leg. This will be perfect on you, Claire. It will bring out the color of your eyes.

Claire stared at the dress, her mouth slightly open in disbelief. Anna, I can't wear that! It's way too... sophisticated.

Anna grinned, shaking her head.

You can, and you will. Just trust me. She said and lay down the dress gently on the bed.

An hour later, Claire found herself standing in front of a full-length mirror, unable to recognize the woman staring back at her.

The emerald dress fit her like a glove, accentuating her curves in all the right places. Anna had styled her hair into loose waves that cascaded down her shoulders, and her makeup was soft yet elegant. The finishing touch was a set of diamond earrings and a matching necklace pieces that Claire knew must have cost a fortune.

Anna, I can't wear this jewelry, this is too much, Claire whispered, her fingers lightly touching the necklace.