Only then did Derick’s eyes drift back to me, as if remembering my existence, and he blurted without hesitation, “You look better.”
Becky playfully slapped his arm, scolding him. “Idiot! You’re supposed to compliment your fiancée at a time like this. You really got no rizz, do you?”
Realizing his blunder, Derick looked at me, a bit embarrassed. I just lowered my gaze, focused on sending a picture of the dress to my parents. Once I got their response, I didn’t bother saying anything more and turned back to the fitting room to change.
When I came out, Becky was pulling Derick into selfies, giggling as he posed in an absurd tuxedo with a dramatic tailcoat. He’d always been averse to dressing up. Even during our shopping trips, he’d never tried on anything, not even once. But now, here he was, fully dressed up, laughing like a carefree teenager.
Four years together, and he wouldn’t even try on clothes for me. So that was it—his so-called “rules” applied only to me. With that realization, I grabbed my purse, ready to leave. Just as I reached the door, Derick called after me.
“Penny, I don’t have all day for dress-fitting. We can’t go to check on another shops.”
“I’m fine with the last one,” I replied quickly.
He frowned. “I wasn’t saying you can’t try another one. Go look around. Take your time.”
I shook my head. “No need. I’m good with this one.”
We wouldn’t be having a real wedding, anyway. Why waste anymore time?
He tossed his tie at me, his eyes cold. “You’re still mad because I didn’t meet your parents? You’ve been giving me attitude ever since. Seriously, is it necessary?”
“You should be grateful I’m here today at all. What more do you want?”
I tried to keep my expression neutral, to stop my brows from furrowing, wanting to tell him it was fine—that none of this mattered anymore. But then I thought about my father, about the little time he had left, and I took a steadying breath.
“Don’t worry about meeting my family. Let’s move the wedding up. How about three days from now?” If we did that, I could leave as soon as possible and be with my dad.
He let out a mocking laugh, seemingly enjoying the challenge. “Fine, if that’s what you want. But don’t expect anything fancy!”
“Alright.”
“We’ll do it at my place. You know my parents aren’t exactly thrilled about you. And your parents? Better if they don’t come.”
“Fine by me.”