Twist of Fate (Kings of Chaos 6)

“Did he say anything?”

Pride fills me. “He was impressed with my research and the plan we created. It’s a plus that I’m bringing some of my own money to the table. He also said he personally enjoyed the concept.”

“Sounds like a win-win! Now we get to hang out for the rest of the day, and then we’ll hook up with the mystery man you’ve kept under wraps.”

I roll my eyes. He thinks I’ve been helping her prepare an intimate surprise party for Andy, which is partially true.

“He doesn’t know, Jas.”

“You haven’t told him?” The shock in her voice causes a stab of guilt.

I cringe. “No,” I whisper. It’s a huge secret to be sitting on. “It’s not that I don’t trust him, it’s just … It hasn’t come up.”

“Because your mouths are too busy doing other things?” She wags her eyebrows, and I roll my eyes.

“Stop.”

“Am I wrong though?”

“No,” I groan.

“Have you sampled the goods yet?”

“No, but I was hoping you could go shopping with me for the outfit I plan on remedying that with.” Shayne makes me bold.

“What has this mystery man done to my caterpillar? You’re turning into a beautiful butterfly right before my eyes.”

“With him, I feel like I can do anything. I’ve never been this comfortable with a man before. It’s shown me everything that was wrong in my previous relationships.”

“We’re already using the R word?” Jas asks.

“He made it clear he doesn’t do casual.”

“Sexy, strong, and committed? Did he come from Mars?”

I laugh. “No, apparently he came from San Mateo.”

“Smartass. Come on, I know a place to go.”

I clear my throat. “I actually have a place. I’m looking for something Vickies and Fredrick’s aren’t going to have.”

“You naughty girl,” Jas whispers, wagging her finger.

“This coming from Ms. I like to keep things from getting stale?” I tease.

She shrugs. “When you’ve only had one sex partner, you have to get creative.”

“Come on. We’ve got a lot to do after this.”

***

“Okay, this place is adorable,” Jas squeals as we approach the small shop sandwiched between two bigger boutiques. Geek Chic is scrawled across the center of the front window in gold lettering. The decals surrounding it, say it all. Books, starships, and angelic symbols call to me like a mecca.

“Just think, we haven’t even been inside yet.”

“Oh, I feel my bank account weeping already.”

We step inside, and I swear it feels like coming home. Bookish buttons, scarves, and headbands are displayed on a table in greeting. T-shirts, posters, and purses line the left side of the store. The Doctor Who, Supernatural, and Star Trek fandom sections jump out at me immediately. I could spend hours here, but right now, I’m on a mission.