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“Mrs. Remington, hello.” I smile at her.
Lex immediately stiffens, her back to Tristan’s mom. Her face instantly drops from carefree and happy to tense and almost hostile. I’ve never seen her like this. I may not know her well, but she’s always been so kind and welcoming to everyone.
“Hello, Sage,” Mrs. Remington smiles, but it’s so fake. “How are you, dear?”
She stands in front of me, glancing at Lex with the least bit of care.
I don’t like the way she scowls at her.
“I see you’re making . . . friends.“ Her nose lifts in the air.
Lex says nothing, standing still like a statue. I even think she’s holding her breath.
“Yeah,” I nod, attempting to ease the conversation. “I’m looking for a gift.”
“How nice.” Her eyes move to the mug in my hands. “A mug, how . . . sweet.” She tilts her head, eyebrows slightly furrowed.
“This is just part of it.” I shrug, feeling inadequate.
She nods, glancing at Lex again.
“Dear, find yourself better friends. Although . . .” She eyes me up and down with distaste before leaving the store.
What in the world?!
My eyes widen, my mouth dropping. Words get stuck in my throat. I look at Lex and frown.
“I’m so sorry.”
“You don’t need to apologize for that woman’s behavior.” She shakes her head.
“Anyway, grab the mug, and let’s go. We can see if Between the Pages has something you can add to the gift, maybe a book on starting your own non-profit.”
“Are you sure you’re okay?” I reach for her hand.
“Yeah.” She forces a smile. Her eyes hold deep sadness, though.
“Come on.” I smile, not letting Mrs. Remington’s attitude ruin the day. “I need something to go along with this mug. Maybe you’re onto something about going to the bookstore. A planner, like a motivational one, would be great.” I look at her.
“Oh, I love that idea!” She clasps her hands.
I pay without any more awkward run-ins and walk out with my mug. I can’t believe I bought it.
“I hope Tristan laughs, or it’ll be very awkward.” I squeeze my eyes shut as embarrassment washes over me.
“He’ll love it,” Lex says confidently.
The tension from the run-in with Mrs. Remington eases as we walk toward Between the Pages, intent on finding the perfect gift for Tristan. A trip to the bookstore is always a good idea, as far as I’m concerned.
After spending an hour at the bookstore—some of that time spent looking through books I want—I finally find what I’m looking for: a leather-bound journal built for success.
It has pages with short-term goals, long-term goals, motivational quotes, mindset practices, self-care, and intentions for the day. The best part is that the cover has the words “Choose Joy” embossed on it.
It screams Tristan. I didn’t know how into mindfulness he was until Lex gave me more insight.
“This is so perfect.” I smile at Lex as we walk out of the bookstore. Between the coffee mug and this, I think I have a great gift.
“He’ll love it,” she reassures me. “Want to grab coffee?”
