“That’s what you chose to wear? Don’t you care about your reputation?”
We walked past the tuxedoed band. I’d agreed to come tonight as my brother Jake’s plus-one. I figured by now he would know better than to show up to his company’s holiday party in a formal jacket and cargo shorts. How wrong I was.
He tilted his checkered fedora and laughed. “This outfit has character, sis. You know I’ve never cared what other people think.”
I sighed, pulling my purse closer while staring down at my satin dress and matching Jimmy Choos.
Jake gestured across the room. “That’s my boss. Let’s say hello. Be cool.”
I winced. She was sensibly dressed. Blue dress, matching heels, understated Star of David necklace.
“Hi, Ms. Rothenstein,” Jake said. “Great Christmas party.”
She scoffed. “I’m glad you’re enjoying it.” I could feel her cold scan of Jake’s outfit. “We try to make sure everyone feels included in the holiday party.”
We were the first to leave.
“Qapla’!” A drunk coworker slapped Jake’s back on our way out.
“jIQoS!” Jake yelled. The coworker snickered and staggered off to mingle with some other guests.
Oh God, Jake was talking Klingon again. I looked away, twisting my gold chain against my flushed neck.
“Some party,” I said, back in the car. At least I hadn’t run into anyone I knew. I smoothed a crease in my dress. I could wear this tomorrow night out with the girls. “I know you don’t care what other people think, but that was so embarrassing.”
He nodded. “Yeah, that was pretty embarrassing.” He turned out of the parking lot. “I can’t believe I dishonored myself saying ‘I’m sorry’ when my coworker wished us well.”
☙ ❧
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