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We walk back down the ramp. Kennedy is still waiting in the car. “Why don’t you sit in the air conditioning while I make the call?” Jackson opens the door for me.
I start to get in, then it hits me. A gift. We didn’t bring a gift. It’s bad enough we’re having trouble getting in, but if we show up empty-handed, Trevor will definitely cause a scene to make Jackson look bad.
I lean back out the doorframe, giving Jackson a quick kiss on the cheek. “I’ll be right back!”
I’m not sure who’s more shocked by it, Jackson or me.
He stands with his mouth ajar.
I roll down the window. "Just give me a few minutes. Trust me.”
I’m not sure how to explain it. I just feel compelled to try to help Jackson right now. Maybe it has something to do with the lingering feeling of his lips on my neck.
Must. Forget. About. The. Lips.
No. That’s not it. I’m just playing my role of a thoughtful fake fiancée. I quickly look up the nearest baby store on my phone and guide Kennedy with the directions.
It takes less than ten minutes to arrive atTiny Elegance Boutique.Oh boy, that name just sounds expensive. I rush out of the car, careful not to trip as I jog to the store. I’m wearing heels again. Have I mentioned I’m not great in heels?
An impeccably dressed woman with curly brown hair and sun-kissed skin greets me at the door. “Welcome toTiny Elegance Boutique. How may I help you today?”
"Hi,” I rasp.
How can I possibly be out of breath from a ten-step jog?
“I need a baby shower gift and quickly. What do you suggest?”
She answers in a very perky voice. “I’m glad you asked. We have so many fantastic choices. Follow me.” She speed walks to the back of the store. I struggle to keep up with her.
When she finally slows, she opens her arms wide, twirling in a circle. “This is our newborn section. We have everything anyone could ever need. Designer onesies, organic infant skincare, and cashmere blankets.” She looks a little like a game show host.
What in the world qualifies as a"designer onesie"?
“Ok, thank you so much.” She gives me a full teeth grin and turns to walk away.
“I’ll be at the front if you need anything.” I give her a nod and a small wave.
Looking around, I’m overwhelmed by the choices. Toys, teddy bears, cradles, monitors. Who knew babies needed so much stuff? This present needs to be special, something that stands out.
Knowing I’m pressed for time, I make a quick decision to head for the section labeled, “designer onesies.” Guess I’m going to find out what they are, after all. I sift through the newborn sizes. They’re all cute and have some intricate details on them you won’t find at just any store. But designer? I still don’t get it.
Then I look at the price tag. I gasp, covering my outburst with my hand. Five hundred dollars? For something the baby will grow out of in a matter of months. Clearly designer equals ridiculously priced items.
I’m never going to be able to buy anything here. My heart sinks. Guess I should have thought about it. We’re in Malibu, not Seaside Bay.
"Miss Parker," Kennedy gently taps me on the shoulder, “what’s going on?”
I massage my temples, sighing. “We didn’t bring a baby shower gift. I wanted to save Jackson from the embarrassmentof showing up empty-handed by grabbing something, but there’s no way I can afford anything in this store.”
“Let me help. I have a company credit card I can use for special circumstances. This feels like an appropriate occasion.” Before I can stop myself, I’m wrapping him in a hug.
When did I start being so affectionate? That’s a kiss and a hug in the span of thirty minutes.
We quickly circulate the store, deciding on a limited-edition print of a baby giraffe, sitting in a field of delicate flowers. There are only ten in circulation, and it’s signed by the artist. I hope it’s special enough.
Kennedy takes it to the counter and asks for gift wrapping. I don’t even want to see the price tag on it.
As we wait, Kennedy turns to me. “You are very thoughtful to help Jackson out like this. He’s had a difficult few months since he’s been home. I’m sure he’ll appreciate your efforts.”
