Page 66 of Hibiscus Heights

Babe gave her two thumbs up. “You’re a goddess in that. It’s sophisticated, elegant, and just modest enough. That one gets my vote.”

“She’s right,” Matteo said. “That rich shade brings out the highlights in your hair, and the style is striking in its simplicity. Very tasteful.”

While Babe turned to attend to another customer, Matteo took Deb’s hand and spun her around. “The man you’re in love with won’t be able to resist you.”

“I don’t think we’re there yet.” Heat rose in Deb’s cheeks.

“I’m not talking about myself.” Matteo looked at her with compassion. “Adrian invited me to the diner. I saw you outside with another man. You were leaving on your bike again.”

Deb was unsure of how to respond.

He touched her lips with a finger. “We could enjoy ourselves, but I know you’re longing for love, for magic. And you deserve that.”

This wasn’t the conversation she’d thought they would have. “Matteo, you’re a wonderful man. I just don’t know you well enough yet.”

“Never apologize for love.” He cradled her face in his hands. “Love either exists, or it doesn’t. That spark, that fire—that’s what makes life worth living. Everyone should know it at least once in life.”

His directness left her speechless. She’d always prided herself on being in control, on being the one who steered the relationship. The thought that her feelings were so visible was unsettling.

“Matteo, I?—”

“No apologies needed.” He kissed her forehead. “Love doesn’t come around very often, but that doesn’t mean you have to be lonely. If it doesn’t work out, I’ll be here for you. I can wait.”

Deb blinked back a rush of emotion, of appreciation for his understanding. She returned to the dressing room to change. Again, she could hear Matteo and Babe chatting easily as she rang up his purchase.

A thought struck her.

After dressing, Deb stepped out. “I’ll take the ivory dress.”

“Great choice. I’ll ring that up for you.” Babe handed Matteo his package.

“Will you be at the party?” Matteo asked.

Babe shook her head. “I wasn’t planning on it. The tickets are a little pricey for me right now.”

“She’ll be there,” Deb said quickly. “As my guest.”

While Babe looked surprised, Matteo smiled at Deb. They had an understanding now.

“I’ll meet you at the Majestic,” Deb said.

After he left, Babe turned to her with excitement. “That was unexpected. And very generous. Are you sure?”

“I want you to come. Matteo and I are in the friend zone now, so you’ll have someone to dance with. And don’t forget to talk to April. I think there’s a vacancy in the shopping corridor.”

Babe looked thoughtful as she slid a protective covering over Deb’s dress. “I’ve thought about branching out but wasn’t sure how. I’d love to cater to the hotel’s guests.”

Deb signed the credit card receipt. “You should. Your eye for upscale, effortless style is exactly what the Majestic’s clientele would like.”

Babe handed her the dress. “Thank you. For the invitation, for the advice, and for believing I belong in that world.”

“You do.” Deb smiled. “Matteo might think so, too.”

19

Tonight will be spectacular, Deb thought with satisfaction. Yet, even with her experience, her nerves still fluttered with excitement.

She stood by the front door of the Majestic Hotel with Maileah, surveying the pre-event scene. They both wore clothes they could move in but still looked professional. Soon, they would need to change for the event.

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