Dawn spent the remaining days in absolute panic, vacillating between the sins imagined and sins to be committed. She and Bella took one afternoon so she could find the perfect outfits to wear for Graham and to discuss their strategy. She wanted to feel sexy and beautiful but would settle for looking her best. As they shuffled through the racks of clothes Dawn could feel Bella's eyes on her face and she responded to the unasked questions
"Yes, Bella, I've told him that you are coming. We're meeting in the Palm dining room at 11:30 for lunch and then you are free to wander and molest whomever you choose." She laughed because although Bella was a big talker she didn't necessarily walk the walk. But Dawn knew B would have a day full of shopping, champagne, spa treatments and then dancing; she had been fortunate that Bella was willing to help her live out a dream and she grabbed her hand across the racks and said
"Thanks again, B"
"Quit thanking me... you're paying for the champagne!" they laughed as they carried their haul over to the dressing rooms chatting all the while about shoes and accessories needed. She was sure that once he saw her he wouldn't want to do anything but talk so she wanted to look her best and feel like herself... like her old self while ignoring the shock and pity in his eyes and his feeble attempts at an excuse to leave. She would be happy with just talking to him but still knew the rejection would sting.
For their arrival on Friday morning she chose a simple sundress with the thin straps and the deep v neck bodice made of soft denim with a long flowing skirt that fell from just below her breast down to her ankles; the print was wild and featured classic Japanese dragons, koi fish and peonies and conveniently had a matching scarf and a pair of simple flat sandels. It made her feel young and free and the empire waistline accented her full breasts and hips.
Dawn and Bella arrived at the resort and they were like kids as they checked in and raced for their rooms all the while laughing and giggling. They had just an hour before Graham was to arrive, Dawn was filled with anticipation and the waiting was excruciating but his seminar would be ending and soon they would be standing face to face. There was a basket of fresh fruits and snacks plus a full bar in the suite along with flowers and champagne all courtesy of Bella Dawn squeezed her tight and whispered
"Bella, please tell me I'm doing the right thing."
"Dawn, we're talking about one night here. It's not like you're going home and packing up your life and moving to California. Worry about the guilt next week, ok?" Her voice tightened "You deserve this experience and I know if there is a god up there surely he will see the price you've already paid and pardon you completely. I know I shouldn't say that, I should be encouraging you to stay faithful to Dominic but I can't. Girl, I love you and have watched you suffer so much... I would carry the guilt for you if I could." A single tear slid down Bella's cheek but Dawn knew what that cost... because Bella DID NOT cry.