Page 51 of Unwrapping Romance

“They are super cute,” I said.

“I like them,” Ellie spoke.

“Okay. We’ll take the boots and these clothes.” I handed them to the lady.

After we left the boutique, we went to Saks so I could find a dress for tonight, per Jack. I found the perfect black dress that would look perfect with my tall black boots. Before paying, I went over to the children’s section, which was a mistake because I purchased more clothes, shoes, hairbows, and a new winter coat. I also saw a display of something that quickly caught my attention.

My phone pinged. Pulling it from my purse, I saw a text from Jack.

“I just got a fraud alert from my credit card company about a two thousand three-hundred-dollar purchase at Saks.”

“And? You sent me shopping. Children’s clothes are expensive. I honestly don’t know how people can afford to have kids. But you don’t have to worry about that, do you?”

“No, I don’t. I was just making sure you were the one making the purchase and that someone didn’t get a hold of my credit card number.”

“Nope. It was me.”I sent the smile emoji.

“Stop sending those emojis. They’re annoying.”

“Okay.”I sent the Christmas tree emoji.

“How dare you.”

“Listen. I’m in holiday hell out in these streets and stores. It’s unfair that you’re sitting in your plush office away from it all. So, I’m throwing a little holiday hell your way.”

“Well, knock it off. I’ll see you later.”

“I want to see Santa Claus,” Ellie said.

“Uh, not today. We’ll have your daddy take you.” I smiled. “Let’s go to the Apple Store and get you an iPad.”

Eric pulled up, took the bags from me, and set them in the trunk.

“Wow. You really shopped it up.” He grinned.

“Ellie needed some new clothes. Can you take us to the Apple Store, please?”

“Of course, Sierra. Are you getting a new phone?”

“No. I want to get Ellie an iPad.”

He chuckled as he pulled away from the curb.

The Apple Store was a complete shitshow. People were scattered everywhere, and Christmas music was blasting inside the store.

“Do you have an appointment?” A nice young man asked.

“No. I don’t. I didn’t know I needed one.”

“There’s about a two-hour wait without an appointment.”

“Oh, come on,” I whined. “All I need is one little iPad for this little girl.” I looked down at Ellie and patted her head.

“Please, mister. I’m so tired, and I want to go home.” She pouted. “Please, help us.”

He looked around momentarily and then back at me.

“Which iPad do you want?” he whispered.

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