Annie Harstorm hadn't been so self-conscious since she got her first bout of acne in eighth grade. Lucy and her daughter-in-law, T'Pol, were just a few steps away from entering the store. It so happened that they were also a few paces ahead of a reporter, who was not welcomed in as the women were. "Private shoppin' for these ladies," she told the reporter, who staked out the door after hearing this.

What had she been thinking when she let Lucy talk her into this? The details of the conversation were a little fuzzy (and it crossed her mind that perhaps her subconscious was trying to protect her), but she seemed to remember something about a favor for her and a chance to meet T'Pol. Annie did want to meet T'Pol, but not because she was a Vulcan and the most interesting news in town all month. She genuinely liked to meet people from all walks of life, and had an understandable soft spot for people who loved candles. Besides, she wanted to meet the woman who finally matched Trip Tucker.

The problem with all of this was simple: she had no idea how to act. Annie had no desire to offend T'Pol, but didn't know what would be offensive to her. In addition, she was a nervous wreck at the thought of a Vulcan looking over her works of art. It was much to her relief, however, that T'Pol was the first to speak once Lucy finished the introductions.

"I am honored that you have opened your establishment for my benefit alone."

That seemed like a good start. "Well, everyone deserves some privacy. I don't see why ya should hafta put up with a reporter writin' down which candles you like best."

"Charles says that I am "big news." I find this to be quite invasive."

Annie smiled and, despite herself, relaxed a little. "They're known for it. Take yer time lookin' around."

T'Pol took one of the baskets that were stacked by the door. "Lucy has informed me that you do not use scents in your candles."

She was already on a first-name basis with Lucy? Weren't Vulcans supposed to be really formal and all? Then again, having married Trip Tucker, T'Pol was obviously no ordinary Vulcan.

"Addin' all sorts 'a scents takes away from the visual beauty."

"These scents would prove distracting during meditation. I am pleased that you refrain from using them."

"You use candles to meditate?"

"Indeed. It is an ancient Vulcan practice."

"I can see why. Candles are so peaceful."

"You are in a unique position to comprehend how the flame can serve as a point with which to center ones' self."

That sounded like a compliment! Things were going far better than she had dreamed. Lucy smiled.

"What kind 'a candles do ya like best?"

"I have never seen candles that resemble most of yours. I will accept your offer to "take my time.""

T'Pol was not in a hurry, and she did take her time. Annie found that her fears soon disappeared. Her special guest was used to the plainest candles, and the art of Annie's creations intrigued her. In fact, Annie had to refrain from laughing when T'Pol called her swirling tapers "complex." They were the most basic candles she sold! (T'Pol bought several.) Moving on to her stacked geometrical shapes and swirling spheres, T'Pol clearly appreciated her art. In fact, Annie hadn't found anyone who appreciated her art so much in a long time.

"I don't understand how people can buy candles and not want ta burn them. When I design a candle, I make it ta burn beautifully."

"I fully intend to burn my candles. That is the purpose for which I am purchasing them."

"I'm glad, T'Pol. It's been a pleasure havin' ya here. Not many people have yer eye for detail."

"Thank you. I have found this experience gratifying."

"Annie, ya should come over for dinner with Trip and T'Pol tomorrow night. Bring Rex, too. I haven't seen him in over a week!" Lucy was thrilled, not only that Annie had found an appreciative customer the likes of which she'd never had before, but that T'Pol had clearly enjoyed the excursion. It wasn't easy to gauge what her daughter-in-law would enjoy.

"We'd love ta! Six, as usual?"

"Of course."

"See ya then! Enjoy yer candles, T'Pol, and good luck with that reporter lurkin' around."