There was, at least, one mark of approval, though Agnes still contemplated putting the dress back where she originally found it. The famous Moulin Rouge was not a place for slackers, or those marred by second guesses.
Perhaps that was why Saga and Leslie were taking so long. Saga knew the importance of appearance better than most–she taught lessons to countless thralls on the subject. Meanwhile, Leslie was, for the most part, tomboyish. Most at home in a flight suit or a pair of cargo jeans and a t-shirt.
Apparently, Leslie had much to hide. When Saga brought her out of the changing room, she appeared to be clad in living stars. The dress was sleek, silver and highly reflective–moreover, it was complimentary of Leslie’s physique, and eloquence.
If only her expression matched her appearance. “Do we have to do this? My birthday isn’t all that big a deal.”
“It is when you’ve served in the capacity that you have,” Saga said, stepping out in blue. Even barefoot, Saga walked effortlessly with an elevated heel–a trait she was able to switch on and off like an inner device. “You’re awake for the first time in months, and you are newly adult. I don’t see what’s not to celebrate. Besides, I think we might break Harley’s heart if you pull out of this now.”
Agnes chuckled. The room felt like camp on off days. No training, nothing to study. Just herself and friends, figuring out what brand of trouble they were bound to get in for the night. She turned to Harley, smiling. “You’re only flattering me because I’m in your head,” she joked. “In truth, we’ll get there and the attention will be split between yourself. If I didn’t know better, I’d assume you were performing.”
Agnes found a portion of her edge at the end of her statement. She reached for Harley, a single finger grazing lightly below her chin. “I do know better, right?”
“I think to say you weren't in my head’d be a lie, wouldnt ya’ agree Aggie?” Harley countered softly, a whisper meant just for Agnes. “...And to say I aint performing, well...That isnt exactly true either.”
Her china blue eyes widened, pupils dilating, glittering. “But it doesnt matter how many people look at me, I’ve only got one seat in my auditorium, and I know who’s name is on it...” The last words hissed softly, but sharply. Like a sigh of pleasure caught in the throat or the sound uttered from burnt fingers quickly withdrawn from a flame. Harley meant it. All of it.
“And yes, you would break my heart!” She turned a little, now addressing the rest of the room more loudly. Her demeanour changing on a dime, all smiles and giggles. She strutted across to where Saga and Leslie were checking their outfits and gave them and appraising look, hands on hips. She couldnt resist a poke at Saga.
“You should wear that colour more after Strawberry, really brings out your sweetness. Lord knows you can be a little tarte from time to time.”
She raised her brow and grinned, it was not meant cruelly. If Harley was really honest with herself she strongly desired Saga’s approval. She was a sister to Agnes, and that made her extremely important.
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