“How so?” I watch her. I’ve spent the whole day preparing her to have this conversation with me, and if it takes all of Julian’s money to get more from her then so be it.
“I don’t have a mother.” She shrugs as she looks to the ground. “I don’t like what they like.”
I watch her. “Like what?”
“The music, the stupid boys. Everything. I have nothing in common with any of them.”
“But that’s okay, right?” I frown. “Does it bother you that you have nothing in common with them?”
“It used to.”
“But not anymore?” “I’m used to it now, I guess.”
I link my arm through hers as we walk. “You know it’s okay be different, Will. I’m different, and not everyone likes me.”
“Everyone likes you, Brell.” She tuts.
“No, they don’t. Do you know how many times I get called a bimbo because I chose to be outgoing and happy? People assume I’m dumb because I laugh a lot.” I shrug. “Think about it… both you and your dad thought I was a bimbo at the very beginning.”
She frowns as she watches me, my words falling into place.
“I choose to be how I want to be.” I bump my shoulder with hers. “I don’t care what people think. You need to choose how you want to be and forget what everyone else says or thinks about it.”
She listens intently.
“Because the people who matter will love you however you are.” “What about Dad?” she asks. “Will he?”
“Your father loves you so much. He just wants you to be happy, Will. He doesn’t always say what he feels, I know, but it’s the truth, and deep down you know it.”
She smiles softly, her eyes holding mine.
"He's going to wet his pants when he sees you in these beautiful dresses," I smirk.
She giggles.
“How about we call into Grandma’s and show her your new clothes on the way home?” I say.
“Okay.” She smiles
We arrive at the café where we are meeting Emerson, and we walk in to find her sitting at the back. “Hello.” I smile as I kiss her cheek.
“Hi, Will.” She grins
“Hi,” Willow replies nervously.
“Jesus, have you two bought the whole shop?” She gasps as she looks over at all our bags.
“Yep,” I sigh as I fall into my seat. “We needed a pick me up. Some spoilt rich little bitches are giving Will a hard time at school.” Emerson narrows her eyes and punches her fist into her palm. “Who do I have to take out?”
I’m lounging on the sofa. “Put the grey dress on,” I call out.
Frances sits in the wingback chair as the two of us watch Will’s fashion show. The butler brings out a tray of tea and scones, placing it on the table. “Will that be all, ma’am?”
“Yes, thank you, darling.” Frances smiles. I can’t believe she has house staff. It’s like being part of the royal family or some shit.
Willow breezes out of the study in the flowing grey dress, proudly placing her hands on her hips.
“Oh my goodness,” Frances exclaims as she begins to clap her hands. “Simply gorgeous. You look at least twenty-one in that outfit, Will.”