“Well, life is generally great. We’ve finally opened the store, and an investor is interested in us.”
“Wow, congrats. Why do you need an investor?” I figured if they’d opened this without one, they could do it on their own.
“It’s always good to have more money coming in—we could expand quicker,” Tess said.
These women were an inspiration for me. They went after what they wanted at full speed, embracing all the risks.
“Avery, we have something for you,” Amelia said. She pointed to a small table next to the counter. A Winnie-themed coloring book, a doll, and a puzzle were lying on it.
“And we have something for you too,” Skye said conspiratorially while Amelia took Avery to the table. Natasha gave me a surprised look. I’d brought her up to speed on all things Winchester when I asked her if she wanted to come here, but clearly, I wasn’t the only one amazed by how welcoming these women were.
Tess hurried to the door to greet a customer who’d just come in.
“What do you mean?” I asked Skye.
“You’ll see. Come on.”
She led me to a changing room where a gorgeous red wool camisole was hanging.
“Oooh, this is beautiful.”
“Yup. Just arrived. I set aside your size.”
“How do you know my size?”
“It’s my job. Try it on. It’ll go well with your dress and will keep you warm.”
I was ecstatic. I didn’t want to overthink anything tonight. I wanted to feel sexy. I was going on a date. I was wearing a sweater dress and high-heeled boots, and it was as if Skye had read my mind. I had wondered if I wouldn’t shiver a little.
While I changed, Skye talked my ear off about Ryker.
I peeked through the curtains. “Skye, you don’t have to talk him up. I’ve already agreed to the date.”
Skye grinned. “Extra pimping doesn’t hurt. And you look amazing. You can’t even tell you’re wearing a camisole.”
“I agree. I’m buying it.”
“No, you won’t. It’s our gift.”
“No way.”
“Yes way.”
I couldn’t accept it, but judging by Skye’s determined look, I’d offend them if I didn’t take it. And I loved it. I was going to rock this evening.
I strutted out of the changing room with a huge smile. Anticipation coursed through me. I tried to push down the mix of guilt and fear threatening to float up to the surface. It was just a night of fun. I didn’t have to make a big deal out of it.
Avery and Amelia were busy at the table with the puzzle.
Tess was back at the counter, showing Natasha a bra.
“Hey, girl. We’ll stay here for a bit and then go to the pizza place across the street, if that’s okay with you,” Natasha said.
“Sure. Text me when you go home.”
“Will do.”
Turning to Tess, I said, “Thanks for the camisole. How can I make it up to you?”