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Brynn’s lips turned up at the edges before she sat cross-legged on the rug, leaning against Aspen’s dresser.
Pippa joined her while the teens got busy finishing up their nails.
Brynn turned to her, her green eyes shining with gratitude. “I wanted to thank you for everything you do at the bookstore. It’s nice for David to have a spot where he feels accepted and safe.”
“Oh?” Pippa turned to gaze at the young man as Aspen brushed some light eye shadow on his eyelids. “I’m glad he finds comfort in my bookstore. Is he interested in drag or just experimenting with his style?”
“I think he’s still figuring it out. I’m glad that there are some people here who make him feel welcome.” A flash of pain streaked through Brynn’s gaze.
“How long have you lived in Shattered Cove?” Pippa asked.
“A couple years.”
“Me too. So far, it seems as a whole, the town is very accepting. Of course, nowhere is perfect. But I can see myself settling down here for good. That’s one of the reasons I bought my bookstore in Shattered Cove.” Pippa waved her hand to the side.
Brynn nodded as Aspen approached them. “All done.”
Pippa stood, pulled the box from her things on the bed, and handed it over to Aspen.
“What’s this?” Aspen opened the box and gasped. The gold crown was decorated with clear stones that sparkled in the light of the room.
“It’s so perfect!” Aspen wrapped her arms around Pippa’s neck and squeezed.
“This is from my quinceañera. I thought maybe you’d like to use it tonight?” Pippa explained.
“What’s a quinceañera?” Aspen asked.
“It’s sort of like a huge birthday party that celebrates a girl’s passage into womanhood. It was just sitting in my closet, so I figured I’d bring it along in case you wanted to wear it. Make some good memories with such a beautiful crown that never got its celebration.” Pippa hugged her back. “Shall I?”
Aspen handed her the accessory, and Pippa placed it on her head and adjusted her hair. Pippa held up a small mirror.
Aspen’s eyes widened, and her mouth split into the biggest smile. “I feel like a queen.”
“You are a queen.” Pippa winked.
“How about some makeup?” Aspen smirked.
“Alright. Sit back down.”
“Can you give me some colorful braids like yours someday?” Aspen asked as Pippa brushed some blush on her cheeks.
“Sure. We can use the colored weave or even yarn.” Pippa added some light mascara and a gold shimmer of eye shadow. “All done.”
Aspen got up and walked to the mirror hanging on her closet door. “I can’t believe that’s me.”
“You look amazing,” David commented.
“So beautiful, sweetheart,” Brynn agreed.
“I love that dress.” Rachel pinched the fabric between her fingers. Her stomach growled, and the kids laughed. “I’m starving, and my mom wouldn’t let us stop for food.”
“There are some snacks downstairs.” Pippa started picking up her tools and makeup.
Brynn followed Rachel and David downstairs, leaving Aspen and Pippa alone.
Aspen pulled out a small velvet jewelry box from her desk drawer and handed it over to Pippa. “I got you something for all your help.”
Pippa accepted it. “That’s so sweet of you. You really didn’t have to.”
