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I arrange the samples back on the racks and organize the ties in the drawers. The bell rings over the door, and I lean back to greet Jonas. James Hayes walks through, looking lost and carrying a garment bag. I’ve only met him once, in December, but he’s easily recognizable. His eyes get soft when he sees me, giving me a smile.
“Ember, how are you?”
“Hi, Mr. Hayes. What a surprise.”
“Call me James. Jenna told me to come talk to you. Apparently, I’m allowed to use my own tux, but I need to make sure it matches the other guys. I have a wife and a daughter, both whom could run this errand for me, yet somehow, I find myself in a store on a Friday night. How is that fair?”
I giggle and wave for him to follow me. “Let’s see what you have. Go ahead and pull it out, I’ll be right back.”
The bell rings again, and this time, Jonas walks through with his friend, a goofy grin on his face. “Come on back, Jonas. I’ve got your bags ready.”
I get both the attire bags, and grab a sample to compare to James’ own tux. Jonas and his friend groan when I insist they try on their suits but finally disappear into dressing rooms.
With the exception of a new tie, Mr. Hayes’ tuxedo matches fine. He doesn’t make a move to leave, but instead sits back on one of the couches and watches me put the sample away.
Jonas comes out first, followed by his friend, and I audibly gasp. Both of them have transformed from cute college boys, to handsome young men. The grey dinner suits hug their bodies in all the right places, showing off the look we were going for. Suave, polished, professional.
“We look good, huh?” Jonas spins dramatically.
“You do. I’d even say you look dapper.”
“Dapper. That’s sweet. Going to use that tomorrow night. Although, I’d like to think we have swagger.”
“Oh, you do. That too.” I shake my head, amused.
James chuckles from his seat, watching the exchange.
“You sure I can’t talk you into ditching your date and coming with me?”
“You don’t give up, do you?”
“Not when I know we’ll have the night of our lives.” He tugs me into him and sways to the sound of his own humming, causing me to laugh even harder.
“What’s going on here?” Robbie’s rough voice sounds through the room, and Jonas stops our imaginary dance. His eyes are dark and heated, watching me closely.
“‘Bout time, son. Looks like you have some competition.” James claps his hands together and leans forward.
“Dad?”
“Yeah, been wondering when you’d get here.”
I step back from Jonas and face Robbie, who now has an unreadable expression.
“What does that mean?”
“Had a hunch. This morning gave me my in, so I decided to head over here and see if I was right. Saw the way you looked at her before. Knew the minute I walked in the door. Waited to see for myself.”
“Yo, Ember, these guys talk in English? Is this some sort of code?” Jonas whispers in my ear.
“I’m not quite sure. I haven’t been around uber-macho-male speak before.”
“You’ve got to be kidding me,” Robbie says to his dad.
“No, you may not believe it, but I’m excellent at my job.”
“Still not following,” Jonas says.
“Ember, get over here.” Robbie extends one arm and jerks his chin. His voice is firm.
