Chapter 15.01

The next day, Dad drove us to the apartment, and I showed them around.

“It’s not huge, but it’s perfect for the two of us. Thank you,” I said once we settled in the living room.

“I see your girlfriend has made it feel like home,” Mom said, looking around.

“Yeah, she’s slowly unpacking everything. Will the rent be covered over the summer too?” I asked, since we hadn’t discussed it yet.

“As far as I know, it was leased for several years. Adam handled the paperwork,” Dad said.

“If no one’s hungry yet,” Dad continued, “we could head to the store.”

“Finally, I get to see my own shop,” Amber said excitedly.

“Sis,” I said, “I’ve already been inside, but they don’t know who I am.”

“Same for me,” she laughed.

We drove into the city center, and the whole family entered the jewelry store.

I wanted to show them the ring I had picked out, but it was no longer in the display case.

“Excuse me,” I said to the saleswoman, “there was a blue-stoned ring here a few weeks ago.”

“Oh, yes,” she smiled. “That one was taken a few weeks ago.”

“Do you know who bought it?” I asked. “It wasn’t a blonde girl, was it?”

“Sorry, I don’t remember.”

“Will there be a similar one soon?”

“I don’t think so,” she said. “This style is more popular.” She pointed to a ring similar to Amber’s.

“Thanks,” I said, disappointed.

“Well, son,” Dad said, “pick another one, then.”

“From this selection?” I asked. “Impossible—none of these would suit her. I’ve checked every store here and back home, and this was the only one that resembled what she wanted.”

“Would you like me to show you something else?” the saleswoman asked.

“No, thank you,” I said and walked out of the store. My parents followed.

“Sorry, bro,” Amber said. “You’ll have to wait. Do you know where my shop is?”

“Of course, come on, I’ll show you,” I said, still feeling down. “But don’t reveal who you are unless necessary.”

The store was open, just like last week.

“Hey,” I said as I walked in, slipping into my previous playful tone. “Your pictures still aren’t up?” I winked. The salesgirl laughed.

“Did the dress fit your friend’s sister?” she asked as Amber and the family started browsing.

“Yes, her friend appreciated it,” I said. “Does your boyfriend buy you clothes too?” Basic questions.

“I don’t have a boyfriend,” she laughed. Dad rolled his eyes slightly but didn’t say anything.

“Hi,” Amber stepped forward. “Is this your store?”

“No,” the girl said seriously. “It’s hers.” She gestured toward Jenny’s picture. “And her partner’s.”

“Are either of them available?” Amber asked.

“No, unfortunately not today. But if you come back on Monday, you can talk to her. Can I help with anything?”

“I’m interested in who designs these clothes,” Amber said. Our parents and Brad stepped aside—this was too much for them. “The kitten?”

“No,” the girl said. “Her partner.”

“Could I speak with them?” Amber asked.

“I can’t give out that information, but I can ask. If you come back Monday, I can give you their number if they agree. Is there a problem with the clothes?”

“No, I just wanted to talk to the designer. Thank you,” Amber said and walked out. Our parents followed.

“Sorry about my sister,” I said to the salesgirl. “She’s pretty critical, but you were very kind—thank you.” I winked, and she smiled.

We left the store, and the others waited patiently.

“Give her a raise for putting up with you guys,” Brad laughed.

“I think you’re underestimating the salesgirl,” Dad said to Amber and me. “I hope Janie isn’t.”

“Jane set it up well,” Amber said. “It looks great. And no, Dad, Jane knows her salesgirl exactly—just like I do,” she said seriously. Dad nodded.

“You can tell her you liked the store. She already knows you were here and is probably expecting you to check it out.”

“Shall we head home to eat?” Mom asked.

“Yes, I’m hungry,” Dad said, driving us back.

The apartment wasn’t locked, and when I stepped inside, I saw Mrs. Julie and Dr. Cox sitting on the couch.

“Hey, Johnny,” Jenny’s mother greeted me warmly and hugged me.

“Uh, good evening,” I said, trying to recover from my surprise. I shook hands with the lawyer. “I didn’t know you’d be here.”

“I invited them so they could see the ring,” Mom said as we moved to the dining table, where we could sit more comfortably.