The Jacket

"It's gorgeous." Ivy sighed and toyed with the price tag yet again. Turning it over and over as if it would miraculously change price.

Leanne leant back against the wall and crossed her arms. "We've been in here every day for two weeks - just so you can gawp at that bloody jacket. It's not even your style." She huffed and looked around; "I'm getting a headache from the smell of posh perfume."

Ivy shot a longing glance at the black leather jacket; she'd tried it on, and it seemed to be made for her. Her friends had tried to dissuade her from buying it, saying it wasn't her style and she could find something better - but she couldn't stop thinking about it.

One last sigh, then Ivy grabbed Leanne's arm. "Let's go."

"Promise me you're done now?" Leanne narrowed her eyes, "no more wistful glances and longing sighs?" She took Ivy's hand, "there's a jacket out there that is better suited to you. Maybe something like a pea coat would be better?"

"Yeah, maybe."

Ivy threw herself into work. Every now and then she'd think of that black leather coat and wonder - what if? Just because her friends said it wasn't her style, did that mean she should ignore how good she felt in it?

For six months she avoided going shopping, knowing she couldn't have the one thing she wanted.

Then Leanne arranged a girl's night out to a posh club in town. She descended on Ivy's wardrobe like a tornado, throwing clothes left, right and centre.

"Do you not own anything that isn't practical?" Leanne gave Ivy a stern look. "I've got to go to work now - shops are open until five. Go get something less granny-ish please."

Ivy couldn't help herself, she had to see if it was still there. A sign in the shop window proclaimed:

"Everything 75% off!"

"WOW! Ivy, you look amazing." Sara made her spin, "that jacket was made for you!"

"Thanks! I've wanted it forever." Ivy stroked the front of the coat.

Leanne just looked at her and shook her head, smiling.

(354)