Chapter 7

Once Mr. Colton and Winston had left the room. I headed to the restroom in an attempt to make myself appear at least slightly presentable. I glanced in the mirror. I had not gotten nearly enough sleep, and it showed in my appearance—my hair was a mess, and there were dark circles underneath my eyes. My skin resembled a dried out desert. I couldn't help but wonder what Mr. Colton saw in me that made him want to tie the knot. I despised seeing myself in such a mess. As I sprayed cold water on my face, the mascara ran down to my cleavage and stained the top of my ivory dress.

After taking off any remaining makeup and brushing my hair, I pulled it back into a tight ponytail. My collarbones and naked shoulders were on full display. I went through the medicine cabinet looking for mouthwash in order to get rid of the putrid stench of alcohol that was coming from my mouth, and I slathered on a generous amount of lotion all over my olive-coloured skin.

Before leaving, I made sure to maintain a