Page 59 of The October Arrangement

“No. Not really.”

“A color?”

“Not yet.” I shook my head.

She smiled. “Even better.”

I wasn’t sure how that was better.

“Come with me.” She gestured. “Tell me about the event.”

“All I know is it’s a black-tie charity event.”

“And who are you attending with?”

I wasn’t sure why that was any of her business.

“Simon Montclair.”

She stopped walking and looked at me. “Mr. Montclair?”

“Yes.”

“I see.” Her smile brightened, and I furrowed my brows.

“Is that important?” I asked.

“No. Not at all.”

Liar.

She told me to have a seat in the waiting area that housed two cream velvet chairs and a sofa.

“Have a seat. I’ll bring you a few options.” She smiled.

“I can look through the racks,” I said.

“Absolutely not.”

“Excuse me?”

“Forgive me. I meant that you don’t need to. Let me take care of you. Can I offer you a glass of champagne?”

Was she serious?

I glanced at my watch. “Well, it is five o’clock somewhere.” I smiled.

A young woman out of nowhere appeared carrying a silver tray with a glass of champagne on it. I picked up the glass and took a sip. Maybe shopping with Simon’s credit card wouldn’t be so terrible after all. I was loving this experience so far.

Celeste returned carrying several gowns over her arm.

“I pulled a few different styles so we can figure out what you love.” She smiled as she hung them on the hook.

She handed me the first dress, and I stepped into the fitting room. It was black, fitted, elegant, and beautiful with a low back. The second dress was champagne-colored and covered in delicate beads. Not really my style. I tried all four dresses on and really wasn’t feeling them.

“I have another for you to try on.”

I opened the fitting room door and took it from her. I changed into the emerald gown, stepped out of the fitting room, and stared at myself in the three-way mirror. It was beautiful.