“So you’re protecting him from you?” Dr. Burns sighed. “Zoe, the man is an adult. I think he can make his own decisions regarding his relationships. Now, you say he’s a player. Usually a player vows he won’t get hurt again because of damage in past relationships. Or he might have seen some things growing up, and it’s distorted his view on love.”
&
nbsp; “I think we both have baggage. It’s best to stay away,” Zoe said.
“If you think that’s best, I can’t argue with that. I just don’t want you to walk away out of fear. If you see something you don’t like, fine, but if you see more beyond the surface, don’t run away too soon.”
Zoe’s phone beeped. It was Bailey. “I have to go, Dr. Burns. I’ll check in with you again soon.”
“Have a good one,” she said. “Remember what I told you.”
Zoe smiled after Dr. Burns hung up. She clicked over to Bailey. “Hey?”
“Noelle and I are doing some last minute shopping before we leave. Want to join us?” Bailey asked.
Zoe closed her laptop. She could use a break and a distraction from her thoughts about Alex. Between their interaction at the steak cook off and their last conversation at Lisa’s place, she needed space from the man.
The drive to the clothing store didn’t take long, and piped-in music met Zoe as soon as she opened the door. The smells of hand lotion, new clothing, perfume, and air freshener filled her nose.
She passed the wall shelving of folded jeans in various styles and sizes. Mannequins in various poses stood in their positions on risers, while other mannequins’ heads sported hats, sunglasses, and scarves.
“Zoe, back here.”
Zoe focused her gaze to see Noelle waving at her. She walked over and hugged her. She could get used to having close friends in her and Bailey.
“So glad you could make it,” Noelle said.
“Me too.” Zoe reached over to a nearby rack. Her fingers slid over the slick satin of a coral blouse. “What all are you looking for?”
“One last outfit for Bailey.” Noelle pulled a royal blue sleeveless shirt from the rack, inspecting it. “I’m thinking something semi casual.”
“She’s in the dressing room?” Zoe asked.
Noelle nodded. “Trying on the third outfit I suggested.”
Zoe smiled, but that didn’t stop her gaze from dropping to the hardwood floor.
“Everything okay?” Noelle raised an eyebrow.
“A lot on my mind, but school will keep me busy.”
“What did you think of the steak cook off?”
Zoe nodded. “Interesting. Especially, the look on Aunt Pam’s face when Alex’s dad won.”
Noelle giggled. “That was funny, but she wins every year so I think she can let him have one.”
Zoe gave a slight smile.
“I see you’re getting along better with Alex.”
“It’s nothing.” Zoe’s hairs raised on the back of her neck.
Noelle nodded. “Sounds like me.”
Zoe tilted her head to the side. “You and Tommy are happy, right?”
Noelle nodded. “We are now that I stopped fighting what I was feeling. He was there for me, anyway. Even after my...” She released a cleansing breath. “My grandfather passed.” She fanned her eyes. “I’m sorry. It still stings.”