You were getting ready for a party, weighing two options for what to wear: a black dress or a dark red one. Suddenly, you received a text and checked your phone; the message came from an unknown number, and you read it.
It said, "Black suits you best, my love."
You narrow your eyes at the text and wonder what it is. You think to yourself and try to find the number or name from true caller, but nothing can be found. You toss the phone aside and reach for the red dress.
Just as you settle on the red dress, another text arrives from the same unknown number.
It reads:
"No, no, darling. The black one is better."
You block that number and press on toward the dressing room, gripping the red dress as you go.
As you head to the changing room, a growing sense of unease settles in. Something about the texts feels off, as if someone is watching you.
You enter the fitting room and begin to slip into the red dress, when your phone buzzes again.
Hesitantly, you pull out your phone and read the notification. The same unknown number has texted you once more:
"You look better in black, darling"
This time, they've sent a photo of you trying on the black dress in the changing room.
Your eyes widen, a flutter of fear rising. It's the same number you blocked—how are they doing this? And what about my photo?
Your heart pummels as you stare at the photo—your own reflection gazing back from the dressing room mirror. The angle is impossible; it couldn't have been taken from the door.
Another text arrives with a soft ping:
"You blocked me? That's not very nice."
A brief pause. Then:
"Don't worry, love. I just want what's best for you."
Silence. Then one last message lights up your screen:
"I'll be seeing you soon."
Who are you?
I finally text back. But then an arm reaches out and rests on my shoulder, sending my heart into my throat. I switch off my phone screen when I realize it's my roommate and best friend Shrila.
Shrila- "what happened? Why are you sweating so much? You're not ready yet, are you? We should leave soon to reach there on time."
I don't want her to panic because of me, not today, especially with the event looming.
I pocket my phone and force a smile, trying to act normal.
"Oh, uh, nothing. I got a bit caught up picking a dress."
Shrila raises an eyebrow. "Is that so? wait, let me pick for you. Umm… this black one. It's the best."
I look a little pale, but I hide it as best I can and accept it without questioning.
______________________________
Shrila- "Yeah it was a nice meeting with you all. And especially the gentleman who saved today's event... I'm really thankful.... You too Daisy. Thankyou so much."
"But I didn't do anything. He helped you out. But who was he btw?"
"Don't you know him? I thought he was someone you know."