Hand of Thorns Read Online Free PDF Page B

like feeling this skinny, but I guess it's better than the alternative. I don't think it matters what size you are, as a female I doubt anyone is entirely happy with their body. There is always going to be a flaw they don't like.
    Once I fix my makeup and hair to look presentable- since I know tons of paparazzi is going to be there- I do a once over in the mirror, adding white high heels to my attire. I actually feel like I'll belong with Sumner for once. Especially when I line my lips in red lipstick, something I've only done twice before.
    Mom is passed out in the living room chair when I walk through the living room to the front door. I turn off the TV and side lamp, then I lock up the door on the way out. She has been doing better with her addiction, yet she has a long way to go still. She hasn't said much more to me about her meetings, but I do know she goes.
    I get to the movie premiere as all the red carpet cameras and crew are clearing out. Nearly everyone is inside, with a few people lingering around outdoors. A valet takes my car, so I don't have far too walk, and it feels like a different kind of power walking along the red carpet, knowing how many celebrities have before me. A decent handful of them tonight.
    I text Sumner to let her know I'm here, and she gives me the location where she is at, which isn't far from me. I spot her moments later, and wave when she sees me in return. It's crowded, but not quite as intense as I assumed it'd be. Then again, the building is huge and there are many rooms.
    "You look amazing," Sumner proclaims with excitement when we're close enough to one another.
    I felt amazing, until I saw her. Her dress is bright red, mid-thigh, and fits her body like a glove. Her hair and makeup was obviously professionally done, and the jewels around her neck probably cost more than my parent's home. "Thanks," I tell her. Regardless to the fact I feel less than extravagant next to her. "You look great, too."
    She leans to give me a hug and a quick kiss to the check. "I'm so happy you made it. Come, Dad wants to say hi."
    I follow behind Sumner as we make our way through the crowd to her father and the crowd he is in. There are several actors and other recognizable people around. It gives my stomach this odd feeling of intensity, I've never seen this many famous people in one group, even living my whole life near Hollywood. It shouldn't be this much of a thrill, but it undeniably is.
    "Daddy, look who is here."
    Sumner's Dad, York Nysson, turns around when she speaks to him. He smiles genially at me and runs his hand along my bare shoulder. "Good to see you, Monica. I'm glad you were able to make it."
    I'm concentrated on him, but my body is hyperaware of my surroundings too. As he is in a group with Paul Norland, Samuel Winston, and Danny Daniels, all of which are extremely famous and well sought out for leading roles. In fact, Paul Norland received an Oscar just last year.
    "Thank you," I tell York. "I'm glad to be here. Thank you for allowing me to join Sumner." This is the first time I've been on the list with her. She wasn't allowed to attend anything until she turned eighteen, so this is only her third or fourth time.
    He gives me a curt nod. "You got it." He turns to the side a little, giving me a better look at the crowd he is standing within. "I would like to introduce you to a few of my friends. Paul, Samuel, Scotland, Kyle, and Danny. Guys, this is my daughter Sumner, and her friend, Monica."
    My stomach flips when he says my name, and once again when they all smile and say their greetings. I give a tight lip smile back, too nervous to do anything more. Sumner takes in the spotlight by saying hello with a gorgeous high-wattage smile.
    After Sumner gives her dad a kiss to the cheek, the two of us walk towards the line of tables to each grab a drink. No one ID's us when we each get a glass of champagne, and I feel so... elegant.
    We're able to mingle with different people throughout the next