Page 58 of Seale the Deal

I am the worst kind of fraud. I don’t deserve this.

Are you alright? Beryl asks again.

A tear finally slips down my cheek, and thank God, because I’d rather the tears than the nose waterfall I’ve been battling.

I reach forward, fingers trembling just slightly. Beryl… I start, my voice catching halfway through her name.

She looks at me, a smile soft on her face. Yes?

I panic and chicken out. My mouth opens, but nothing comes out.

I swallow. It’s just such a kind gesture. Too kind.

I’m so happy for Ruger, she says. It’s clear you’re something special.

Cue more tears.

She squeezes my hand. Now, tell me about your dress so I can match the lace.

It’s just a simple cotton dress, I say.

Simple? she repeats, brows drawing in.

I—getting here cost a lot, I say, sticking as close to the truth as possible. So I’m keeping it minimal.

Beryl doesn’t answer right away. I watch her eyes as something turns behind them, and my stomach twists. This pause isn’t nothing. She’s planning something.

Well, she finally says, slowly. I’ll… find something to go with simple.

I force a smile.

I’ve kept you long enough, she says.

I follow her back into the shop, where the hum of Audrey’s machine fills the silence.

Thank you again for the flowers, I say, and for letting me use your sewing machine.

Beryl takes my hand and gives it a gentle squeeze. I mean it, she says warmly. Come back soon.

My chest softens as I smile at the kind old woman.

Then my phone buzzes.

REMI:

WHERE. ARE. YOU?!?!?

OMG. Big things!

ME:

Fabric Delights.

REMI:

Stay there! Five minutes tops.

I slip my phone back into my pocket.