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Unable to help herself, Tiffany inched closer.
“She contacted the office, and they patched her through.”
“Can’t you see what she’s up to? You’re her ace in the hole—you’ve always been.”
“I made a promise, and if Debra needs me, I’ll be there. End of story.”
That was her cue. Tiffany backed up the way she’d come, almost knocking over a display. Steadying it, Tiffany made a stealthy retreat. Her hand was on the doorknob when Ivan’s voice stopped her.
“Hey. I didn’t know you’d come back.”
Tiffany stopped and cursed her bad timing. She plastered a smile on her face and turned around. “Yeah, I forgot my cell phone.” She held it up. “I gotta run, though. Norma Jean’s going to have a cow if I take any longer.”
“Sure. I’ll be by in the morning to go over everything. How’s nine?”
“Great. See you then.” She made a beeline outside, closing the door behind her.
You’ve got half a block to make it look like nothing’s wrong.
“What could be wrong?” she said aloud. “I have no claims on him. We’re not dating. I thought he was cute, right? Nothing more. If he wants to pledge his undying love to Debra, he can go right ahead.”
With a superhuman effort, she got into the car and cheerfully said, “I got it.”
“Wonderful,” Norma Jean replied. “So where are we going to eat?”
“How about Rajun Cajun?” Tiffany said. “I could use a little something spicy.”
Norma Jean didn’t miss a beat. “Well, if you’d let me fix you up like I’ve been wanting to, you’d have all the spice you need.”
Milán laughed. “You knew she wasn’t gonna leave that one alone.”
Tiffany muttered something in agreement, and then turned her head to gaze out the window.
He’s taken. Crap.
*
An eclectic blend of New Orleans and New Delhi cuisines, the Rajun Cajun restaurant in Hyde Park was a favorite for soul food and traditional Indian dishes. After studying the menu, they placed their orders. While waiting, Tiffany recalled Ivan’s conversation with Cole. Hearing them discuss Ivan’s girlfriend had made her stomach clench. Granted, she didn’t know him that well, and had no claim on his affections, but it was still disheartening.
“So, Tiffany, I was thinking that this Saturday would be perfect for a date, don’t you agree?”
“Sure,” she said absentmindedly. “I’ll be there.”
“Great.”
When their orders were ready, Norma Jean invited them over to her house, but Tiffany wasn’t up for company.
“I’ll pass if you don’t mind. It’s been a long day, and I’m beat.”
Milán dropped her back at the store to pick up her car.
“Thanks, and sorry I’m bailing on you.”
“Honey, it happens,” Norma Jean responded. “We’ll touch base later about Saturday. I’m so excited.”
Tiffany waved goodbye, and was about to get into her car when she looked at her boutique. Ivan and his crew were gone. It was dark inside, except for the muted shades of pink emanating from a miniature poodle night-light at the back of the store. It was there less for security, and more because she thought it was cute and wanted something whimsical to remind her to smile. She could use that right about now.
Tiffany got into her car and headed home. While she was watching TV, Milán called.
