Page 159 of Finding Our Reality

When I finally make it back out front, Holt and Kyra are standing by the register making small talk. And Bunny? Well, she’s standing in front of the full-length mirror, attempting to try on a cardigan.

Is she a moron?

This is a children’s store. All we have are child-size clothes.

Normally, I’d call someone out for this. She might rip it or stretch it beyond repair. But I keep my mouth shut because I just want them out of my store as soon as possible. This whole visit has been very unnerving for some odd reason.

“Kyra, will you ring everything up, please?” I grab a bag from underneath the counter and slide the wrapped gifts inside.

He places his hand on top of the bag. “I need something else too.”

I purse my lips in frustration. How much stuff is this guy gonna buy? Can’t he just leave?

I must make a face because he lifts his eyebrow at my reaction. Taking a deep breath, I force that fake smile to my face again. “How else can I assist you?”

He nods to the small bookshelf of trinkets to my side. “Are those bookmarks?”

“Yes, sir.”

Again, with the squinty eyes. It almost makes me laugh.

Almost.

He points at one. “I’ll take a pink one.”

I shake my head. “Anna’s favorite color is purple.” I pat the shoebox. “Like the trim on her new shoes.”

“I know. This isn’t for Anna. It’s for someone else.”

“Who? Another niece?” Why am I engaging him in conversation?

He tosses his head back and forth. “For lack of better words.”

Tired of waiting, Bunny finally makes her presence known with another whiny moan. “Seriously, Holt? How long does it take to buy one silly pair of shoes?”

Tossing the bookmark in the bag, I bump Kyra with my hip and take over checking him out. He barely has time to slide his credit card back in his wallet before I’m pushing the bag into his hands. “Thanks so much for coming. Come back anytime.”

Or not.

I’m glad Anna’s birthday is only one time a year.

He cocks his head to the side, and then he winks at me.

Really? I can’t decide if he’s a heartthrob or an asshole.

And then, for no apparent reason, he laughs.

Seriously, I think he can read my mind.

To be continued in…