AN ENTANGLED AFFAIR

Chapter 003

"Take a look at yourself, Cara," Ethan said, admiring his handiwork as he turned Carissa around. She was wearing a red dress that accentuated her curves, and her hair was styled in beautiful strawberry curls. She looked stunning, and Ethan was proud of the way he had transformed her for the party. "You look incredible," he added in his usual exaggerated feminine tone, giving her a warm smile.

"Thanks, Ethan," Carissa said as she looked in the mirror. While she had to admit that she looked stunning, she wasn't sure if she was comfortable with the revealing dress. She turned to him, hesitating as she tried to find the right words. "But..." she began, before trailing off.

“‘But’ what?" Ethan asked, finishing up with her makeup.

“I don't like this. It's way too revealing." Carissa said, her face a mask of discomfort as she tried to cover up her cleavage with the dress's neckline.

“Revealing? What are you talking about?” He scoffed, his voice tinted with surprise. This dress is amazing on you. You look incredible! There's nothing 'revealing' about it." He tossed his hands in the air in a dramatic gesture, his voice warm and feminine.

“I can't wear this!" Carissa insisted, gesturing toward the mirror.

“C'mon, girl, you can't back out now," Ethan said, his voice almost taking on a cajoling tone. "You've got to go through with this. It's for your own good, Baby girl.”

Carissa's brow furrowed in confusion. "What do you mean, 'for my own good'? What's going on here?"

Ethan sighed and gave her a look of exasperation. "Don't you see? You need to embrace your femininity! You're always so buttoned-up and proper. You need to let loose and show the world what you've got. You're a beautiful woman.”

“Just look at me!” Ethan exclaimed with a laugh, twirling around to show off his outfit.

Carissa's eyes widened as she took in the sight of Ethan's outfit. He was wearing a black denim dress that hit just above his knees, revealing muscular, hairy legs. He wore thigh-boots, and a full face of makeup.

"Come on, it's just one party," Ethan said, his tone insistent. "And then I'll never bother you about this again, I promise. Just this one time, and I won't even bring up Jake ever again." He knew it was a low blow, but he wanted to get her to agree.

Carissa glared at him, a smile tugging at her lips. "No way, you're not making me do this." She started to laugh, recalling a similar situation where Ethan had attempted to manipulate her, but it had gone horribly wrong.

The two of them broke into a fit of laughter.

"Alright, fine," Carissa said, though her voice was laced with reluctance.

Ethan feigned deafness, cupping a hand to his ear. "What was that?" he asked, grinning at her.

Carissa rolled her eyes but couldn't help but smile at his antics. "I said fine, I'll go to the party with you." She shrugged.

"Yes!" Ethan exclaimed, pumping a fist in the air. He strode across the room, swinging his hips like a runway model as he picked up their handbags from the bed. Carissa burst out laughing at the sight of it.

********

The cab pulled to a stop, and Carissa and Ethan stepped through the door as the bass-heavy music thumped in their ears. The club was filled with people, all dressed to impress.

Carissa's eyes darted around, taking in the scene. She was skeptical about this place; it seemed like a typical club, filled with loud music and expensive drinks. But Ethan seemed excited, so she tried to keep an open mind. She glanced at him, and he smiled at her, giving her a reassuring nod.

"Let's live it up, Cara. Let's celebrate our new-found freedom," Ethan said, giving her a mischievous grin.

Carissa smiled back, feeling a bit more at ease. She knew that Ethan would never lead her astray, and she was ready to let loose and enjoy herself. They made their way to the bar and ordered drinks, laughing and chatting as they sipped their cocktails. Soon, they were swept up in the music and dancing, losing themselves in the moment.