Sun spilled in through the windows of Alexandra’s penthouse. She woke up more refreshed than the days before. She had been so busy with business meetings after business meetings. It was finally nice to have a day to herself. 

She needed this. Before she could even think about what that would look like, her phone buzzed.

Hana: Shopping. Now. No excuses.

Alexandra barely had time to respond before another text came in.

Hana: I’m outside. Let’s go!

A knock followed almost immediately after. Alexandra sighed, already knowing she had no choice in the matter. She opened the door. Hana stood there, a triumphant grin on her face, as if she had won some kind of battle.

She was dressed in a soft cream cardigan, embroidered with colorful flowers. Her long dark hair was pulled into a loose ponytail that still somehow looked effortlessly chic. There was a spark in her eye. Alexandra knew that look all too well. This was a look of mischief. 

“You’ve been here for how long and haven’t gone shopping yet!” she said excitedly, already dragging Alexandra toward the elevator.

Hana always found an excuse to shop and this was a great time for it. Especially since Matteo spilled to her that Alexandra had nothing on her schedule for the day until the evening. 

Alexandra rolled her eyes but let herself be pulled along, “I was a little busy getting mugged and losing my passport, remember? Where would I find the time for an extravagant shopping spree?”

“Well,” Hana said cheerfully, linking her arm through Alexandra’s, “Today we’re fixing that. Let me show you what it’s like to shop at Korea’s most luxurious stores.”

***

By the time they reached the heart of Seoul’s luxury district, Alexandra had to admit, maybe a little retail therapy wasn’t the worst idea after all.

She had been meaning to shop at a few of these stores, but couldn’t seem to peel herself away from work before today. She couldn’t remember the last time she actually spent money on herself. 

Alexandra had a feeling today would be a long day. Hana lived by “Shop until you drop”.

Hours passed as they browsed through some of the most exclusive designer boutiques in the country. Hana seemed to have an in at every store. It wasn’t surprising to see the influence her family had. Practically every store was catering to their every want and need.

Hana made Lexi try on each and every elegant dress lined up on the endless racks from famous Korean designers. They all seemed to be tailored to her body. All a fit of perfection.

“Try this one!” Hana handed her a two piece, light blue tweed set, lined with delicate white pearls. It was the epitome of elegant and classy.

Alexandra turned it over in her hands. “You’re sure this isn’t too short?”

Hana waved off her concern, “No! You’re going on a date with Lee Jae-Yong. Korea’s star. You need to look like a goddess. His fans will be watching his every move under a microscope and will not accept any one less than perfect.”

Hana wasn’t wrong. The world seemed to lose their minds over kpop idols, especially those who were extremely popular. Him being Korea’s rising star and sweetheart, she might face backlash if they found out they went on a date.

As Alexandra stepped out of the dressing room, Hana let out a low whistle, “Wow. Who knew my best friend was so stunning.”

As they continued to try on endless outfits, the conversation shifted.

“So… Seo or Jae-Yong?” Hana asked curiously.

Alexandra sighed, adjusting the dress she had on. She knew if she didn’t give Hana an answer, she would continue to pester her. 

“Jae-Yong is fun, charming, easygoing. Seo is… intense.”

“That’s one way to put it,” Hana laughed. “Jae is like a sweet golden retriever. Seo’s more of a large guard dog.”

Alexandra joked,  “Either way. Seo is getting engaged. I don’t involve myself in anything messy. Right now, I just hope this date, that's not a date, goes well.”

Hana’s eyes brightened with curiosity, “So, where is he taking you?”

“I have no idea! He won’t give me any details.”

“Knowing him, it’ll be light hearted and fun!”

Alexandra was actually looking forward to the date but didn’t want to let on just how excited she was. 

***

Back at her penthouse, Hana spent hours straightening Alexandra’s hair for her. It was even longer than she had realized. 

Hana also took the opportunity to do her makeup. She wanted to ensure that she looked absolutely stunning for this date. Alexandra’s makeup was subtle but flawless, highlighting her features without being over the top. 

Alexandra couldn’t remember the last time she put in this much effort.

A knock at the door startled her. She smoothed out the bottom of her black dress as if to mentally prepare herself. The outfit was made complete with a pair of black heels that gave her a look of elegance and money. Her gold earrings and the black bow that pulled her hair back truly completed the look. She grabbed her little black purse and trench coat before opening the door.