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“Tia, I absolutely love it, and Stella has that amazing hourglass figure. I could design some pieces for the full-figured woman. With her wearing them, it will knock people’s socks off.”
“That’s a terrific idea, but what about that creepy husband of hers? I don’t think he’d be too keen to see his wife prancing about in provocative stuff for all the world to see. From what I’ve heard, and the little I’ve seen, the man’s a neanderthal.”
Flashing back to her conversation with Stella that morning, Stephanie took a breath.
“I have a feeling about that relationship,” Stephanie began slowly. “She may have some options opening up for her, and if they happen, John the Neanderthal may well be in for quite a surprise.”
“This sounds intriguing. Can you give me any details?”
“Sorry, I can’t say more than that without breaking a confidence.”
“She’s such a sweetheart. She sure deserves better than that jerk. If the opportunity presents itself, please tell her if there’s any way I can help, I’m here for her.”
“I will, and thanks, but getting back to my designs, I’m going to drive out to Fabric Mania in Beverly Hills to pick up the fabric and supplies I’ll be needing. I just can’t wait to get started. Do you have any plans today? Would you like to join me?”
“Absolutely, I’d love to join you,” Tia replied enthusiastically. “How soon will you be leaving?”
“In about an hour.”
“That’s ideal. I have a couple of things I need to take care of, then I’ll be ready. Can you show me the ones you’ll be starting with?”
As Stephanie showed her the evocative drawings, Tia let out a whistle.
“These are hot. What a great idea to use velcro. The guy can rip the garment off and not destroy anything.”
“Exactly!” Stephanie exclaimed. “What do you think of the hidden handles on the sides. Too much?”
“Are you kidding? It’s genius. I don’t know why no-one has thought of it before. Call me when you’re about ready to head out. Let’s make this happen!”
* * *
STEPHANIE RETURNEDfrom their shopping spree with more than just fabric and supplies. She’d purchased a high tech sewing machine. She also discovered Tia’s years of modeling had instilled in her a deep knowledge of fabrics. The two friends joked that their talents were as fundamentally matched as Tony’s tennis racket and his balls.
After dropping Tia off, Stephanie raced home, set up the machine, organized the materials and set to work. It was nearing midnight when she thought she heard a noise.
“What’s all this?”
Startled, she spun around and found Stewart standing behind her, staring at the reams of fabric, and the myriad of supplies set up around the room.
“You’re home!” she declared, jumping to her feet. “I’m so happy to see you.”
“I’m happy to see you too, but what’s going on?”
“Check these out,” she exclaimed, enthusiastically reaching for the two garments she had already completed.
“Whoa, they’re fabulous. You made them?”
“Do you see anyone else in here?”
“This might be a stupid question, but why?”
“Stewart, that’s not a stupid question at all, and I’m dying to tell you. Look,” she continued, handing him her sketch pad.
“Wow, I’m so proud of you,” he said, placing it on a table and hugging her. “Honey, you’re brilliant, buy why are you up so late?”
“I have so much to tell you,” she replied, leaning against him and suddenly feeling exhausted. “I’m launching a line of lingerie. Tia’s involved too, but I’ll have to tell you all the details later. I need to finish the—”
“I don’t think so,” Stewart interjected. “You’re worn out. It’s bedtime. No arguments.”
