Chapter 17
After setting clocks and Monroe making me tick in the bedroom, I took some time to see Sandra at her boutique. Shopping would take my mind off the trailer, at least briefly. I still had a gala to attend on Tuesday, and I wanted something new and sophisticated. It wouldn't have a designer label like Lydia's dresses, but I would still make it look good.
"Hey, Sandra!" I smiled as I walked into my favorite Portland boutique.
"Renée, how are you?" Sandra beamed from behind the counter.
"I'm good. I need a dress for Lydia Swift's art gala on Tuesday. Are you attending that one?" I asked as I perused a few dresses from the rack.
"Yes, I have a new piece I'm displaying called A Tree for all Seasons. I'm really proud of this one!" Sandra had a woge as she smiled. Her squirrel features prominently appeared on her face.
"I like that title," I said while eyeing a lavender dress that was lovely. "It really fits you."
"What do you mean?" Sandra asked and I turned to her quickly. She had a discerning look on her face. I wasn't watching my words.
"I just mean it fits the theme you have with your other pieces." I held up the lavender dress. "Do you have this one in a six?" I asked, trying to change the subject.
"Yeah, actually I should." Sandra's face relaxed and she smiled. Wesen discussion averted, thank goodness. I let out a breath as Sandra went to the back room. I really liked Sandra the Squirrel Girl, so if she knew about my secret I wouldn't be too upset. The thought quickly vanished as I remembered the Reapers. No one else needed to know what I could see. I really hated that.
"Size six!" Sandra came out holding up the dress. "This one will look smashing on you!"
The boatneck, sleeveless dress fit like a glove. Fluttering lavender chiffon draped over my curves and it was circled by a jet black sash. Although it fell just below the knee, it was still a sophisticated length. I had a pair of black heels and a black handbag that would complement the sash. Sandra was right. I looked pretty darn great.
I changed quickly and met Sandra at the counter to pay for the dress.
"I guess I'll be seeing you on Tuesday at the gala," I smiled at her as I pulled out my card.
"Oh, yes," she nodded. "Lydia says that my new piece ought to sell quickly. I love working with her."
"Don't you find her a bit... artificial?" I asked.
"A little. But she's a business woman," she replied with a shrug.
"You and I are business women, too, but we at least know what a real smile looks like." I laughed to keep it light. I wasn't trying to berate Madame Dazzles, but she still got under my skin.
"True, but I really like Lydia. She's helped me a great deal," Sandra reasoned. "These galas she hosts have been so helpful to me and many other local artists that don't have the opportunities to be displayed like the bigger names do."
I nodded. Maybe there was good in Madame Dazzles after all.
I left the boutique feeling jubilant about my new purchase. I was determined to have a good time on Tuesday.
A/N: Renée needs to watch her wording... She's slipping. LOL!