AVA’S POV
I pull myself together, forcing my hands to stop shaking as I rummage through my bag for the dress I have to wear. The moment my fingers touch the fabric, my stomach twists. My hands feel weak, but I push through, dragging it out and clutching it against my chest.
I take slow, careful steps toward the changing room. My breath is uneven, my head pounding. The moment I shut the door behind me, I let out a deep sigh, staring at my reflection in the mirror.
I look… empty.
Dark circles frame my eyes. My skin looks pale under the dim lighting, and my lips are dry, slightly chapped. I run my fingers over my face, trying to see if I still recognize myself, but all I see is someone who’s about to sell her dignity just to survive. I’ve been doing it for a while, but this feels differen
