Chapter 80: Poppy

Book Two: Shameless

"Give me your honest opinion." Anne holds up a pale pink blouse at the boutique we've spent the last twenty minutes browsing in. "What do you think of this?"

She sent a text the other day, asking if I'd like to do a little shopping and then grab lunch. Since my classes are all scheduled in the morning, I agreed. She's a district attorney for the county, and every so often, she likes to play hooky.

Anne came into my life when I was ten years old and still mourning the loss of my mother. She was married and lost her husband to colon cancer a year before Mom died. They met in a support group and struck up a friendship before it eventually turned into something more. I'm glad Dad is married again, and that Anne is the woman in his life. I wouldn't want him to be alone.

And neither would Mom.

"It's really cute." I consider the silky top for a few seconds. "It'll look nice paired with your light gray suit."

She flashes a smile before sending me a wink. "My thought