Page 4 of Timber's Line

“You ready for this?” She gestures to the crews setting up cameras and pulling out sound equipment.

“Not really.”

“Oh, good, you’re here,” Sal’s voice booms across the yard.

“Yes, I’m here.”

“Okay, so tomorrow is the big day. We aren’t telling the guys you’re not of age. If it comes to getting drinks, the crew has that covered. Also, we start in the daytime, after lunch.”

“After lunch?”

“Yes, I’ve put a twist on this. You’ll love it,” he says and walks away.

I sigh. “Why do I have a feeling I’m not going to love this?”

“Believe me, this won’t be easy. But give it a chance.”

“Have you seen me?”

“Guys love curves.” She winks.

“If you say so,” I grumble. I don’t mean to be pissy with her.

“Have you seen the dress I got for you to wear tomorrow?”

“No.” I’m intrigued. That’s the only thing about this show that does bring a smile to my face— all the new clothes.

“Come on.” She jumps up, and I follow.

She takes me into the living room, where hanging on the door is a beautiful light blue dress, with lace bodice and arms, a silk corset, and a silk and tulle skirt with a slit. The back is the most beautiful thing about it. There are beautiful, realistic-looking plastic butterflies that have been crafted and hand-sewn onto the fabric.

I love this dress.

“Here are the shoes.” She hands me silver sparkly heels.

“Ever?”

“I saw this and thought it was time to spread your wings and fly,” she says with a smile.

“I love it so much.” I almost sob as I hug her.

“We have plenty more beautiful dresses,” she replies. I just nod.

“Why don’t you come over and have dinner with us. I’ll call the others, and we’ll have a BBQ and swim in the pond. It’ll be fun.

“I’d like that.”

I put my bag in the room I’ll be staying in and change out of my scrubs and into a pair of skinny jeans, a tank top, and sandals. I take my hair out of my bun and braid it. I look okay. Compared to the other girls in the circle, I’m plain, but this will do for now.

“I’m ready,” I say as I follow her out to her car.

“The guys are going to the store, but Dayton is at the house. The girls are on their way.”

“Dayton?”

“He was on last season. He got into some trouble, not my story to tell. He’s one of Sal’s fighters, so he is here to help as part of the crew.”

“I thought he and Snow were together.”