The Sweetest Temptation
Chapter 215: Best friend

Chapter 215: Best friend

A small and unfamiliar voice resonated behind her ear. She turned to acknowledge her unknown company, but her palms closed over her face in genuine admiration as she fought the range of emotions that threatened to pour out of her.

Finally, she let her hand down to look at the woman before her, and her heart leapt with recognition. She lost control, and the tears came streaming down her face as she exclaimed, "Beatrix!"

The petite woman stepped forward and wrapped her slender arms around Stella’s still form in a caring embrace. "Stella," the woman answered, her voice warm and comforting.

Stella was too overwhelmed with her emotions to speak. All she could do was weep on the shoulder of her best friend from college; Beatrix Quinn.

Stella’s voice shook with emotion as she spoke, still covering her face with her palms. "I wanted to communicate with you so much but I was ashamed and I lost my phone."

"It’s okay now, I’m here. I’m with you," Beatrix replied, her voice was soothing as she wrapped her arms around Stella in a caring embrace. Stella sighed deeply, grateful for the warmth of the presence of someone she finally knew.

After what seemed like an eternity, they broke apart and stared in awe at each other, marveling at the sight of the other in genuine appreciation. Stella’s eyes widened with wonder as she took in Beatrix’s appearance.

"You’ve not aged a bit, Beatrix. If you ask me, I think you got younger," Stella exclaimed, her voice conveying the weight of her observation.

Beatrix spun around delightedly, basking in her praise. "Oh, stop it, you’re making me blush, it’s been only a year." she giggled, her eyes shining with joy.

Suddenly, her smile faded as she stopped and locked her gaze with Stella’s, her expression growing serious.

Stella knew her well enough to recognize that something unethical was about to be said. It was a trait she had always appreciated in her, even if it sometimes led to uncomfortable conversations.

Despite the weight of her disapproving gaze, it warmed her heart that Beatrix had not changed much over the years.

"You, on the other hand, don’t look so good, Stella," Beatrix said in a hushed voice, her concern evident in her tone.

"What do you mean, Beatrix? I’m perfectly fine," Stella protested weakly, donning a faint smile in an attempt to make her claim more convincing.

She tried to shrug it off, attempting to show her friend how fine she was by spinning around like she had done earlier. But there was a distinct lack of energy in her movements, and Beatrix could see the weariness etched on her face.

Her eyes softened with empathy. She knew all too well the toll that life could take on a person, and she could see that Stella was struggling.

"I know it’s been tough for you, Stella. But you don’t have to pretend with me," Beatrix said gently, her hand reaching out to grasp Stella’s in a comforting gesture.

"I’m here for you now, and we’ll get through this together."

Stella tried to fight back the tears that threatened to spill out, but the weight of her emotions proved too much to bear. With a whimper, she let the tears roll down her cheeks in silence, feeling the heaviness of her heart being lifted with each sob.

Beatrix noticed the tears and immediately closed the distance between them, embracing her in a tight hug. Stella felt the warmth of her body and the softness of her embrace, and she knew that she was safe.

"I’m here now," Beatrix whispered against her neck, holding her close. She nodded, grateful for the comfort that she provided. After a few moments, Beatrix released her; she looked up at her friend with red, puffy eyes. Despite her disheveled appearance, she felt a sense of relief wash over her. She had someone who cared for her after all.

Without hesitation, Beatrix took her hand and led her towards the store where the stunning red dress was displayed. Stella’s eyes widened with shock and anticipation, unsure of what she had in mind.

"Beatrix, Beatrix, what are you doing?" She asked, her voice laced with panic.

"Don’t worry, just trust me," Beatrix replied with a reassuring smile.

As they approached the counter, the shop attendant greeted them.

"Good morning ma –," the shop attendant began to speak but was interrupted.

"Good morning, please, give me that dress that is displayed outside."

"Right away ma’am," the shop attendant trotted out, a small smile playing on his face. It was clear that he was elated at the idea of a sale, most likely a really big one.

"Oh look at these lovely, lovely dresses, Stella. Come on, let’s look for more dresses for you."

And he was most likely going to make more than enough to earn an instant raise.

***

"Beatrix, you really shouldn’t have," Stella said to her in a tone of appreciation as she rubbed her fingers against the soft velvety material of the red dress. For all it was worth, heaven had opened upon her today, for it was only moments ago, that she had imagined the gown on her, with no thoughts or hopes of purchasing it.

She smiled faintly as she regarded her friend who was still discussing about the payment with the shop attendant. After a moment, she began to walk in her direction.

"Nothing like a good shopping day," She giggled as she spoke in her behavioral playful tone.

"Thank you so much, I can’t thank you enough. I fear it may not convey sufficiently how grateful I am for – all of these." Stella spoke in a soft tone that caused Beatrix to give her a look of exasperation.

"You don’t have to thank me, Stella, I simply did this because I love you, and you’re the sweetest soul I have ever known. Come on, let’s go get ourselves some snacks." She said with an easiness that caused Stella to laugh. If that was the thought that she had towards her every day, then she was not alone in this cruel world. She smiled to herself as she walked with her best friend.