Page 26 of His Reward
It’s snobby and not fool-proof.Anyone can look like a million bucks while being in serious debt.Since I’m the one who mistakenly ignored the unsettling glint in Spray Paint Lady’s eyes and let her near our dresses, I’ve followed Katelyn’s rule without question.
I sweep my gaze over the woman, noting her designer sunglasses and handbag, and the impressive size of her engagement ring.I have more experience under my belt now.I don’t detect any shady intentions.All I see is the familiar warm glow of a genuine bride.
I smile.“That’s OK.”
After I take her contact information, I lead her to the new arrivals section in the showroom first.
I never had concrete career goals during school.When it was time for college, my decision-making process was to flip through the course booklet and slap my finger down on a random spot, then search within myself whether I’d like that class.Three finger-slaps later, I settled on a jewellery design diploma, only to graduate and struggle to put the thing to use.
I walked into this bridal store on a whim, and also out of desperation.My six-month grace period before I had to start repaying my student loan was almost up, and I didn’t want to run crying to my parents to help me pay it off.
Even though I didn’t have any sales experience, Katelyn took a chance on me.Mostly because, in her words, “You’re young and pretty, and that’s half the battle won in any sales job.”
I used to think this would be a starter job that every young person got before they chased their dream career.I also thought I would be bored, surrounded by one dominant colour when I love variety.But I actually like this job.
Most of the dresses are varying shades of white, but they’re all beautiful.I love being a part of someone’s happiest moment too.The best part of my day is the awe in a bride’s eyes as she looks at herself in the mirror, and how an ordinary woman can look extraordinary in the perfect gown for her.
My risk pays off and the walk-in becomes a paying customer.She leaves the store after putting a down payment on a dress that’s twice the amount I make in a month.
Lunchtime arrives.I head to the park nearby with the ham sandwich Malcolm made for me.I claim a bench under a shade tree and take out my phone while I eat.
The police had asked me to call Penny to get Kevin’s contact information.The call had gone straight to voicemail, so I left a quick message asking her to call me back.
I saw her text this morning while I rushed to get ready for work, and I decided to wait until a better time to return it.I should’ve done it sooner.
Three new texts from her flood my screen, each sounding more concerned than the last.She answers my call on the second ring.
“June!Are you OK?”
“Yeah.Sorry I didn’t get back to you this morning.I was running late.”
“I was so worried.”Her voice softens with relief.“You sounded scared on the voicemail you left last night.What was wrong?”
“I was nervous because the cops were there,” I say, then relate last night’s events.
“That’s so scary!”Penny gasps when I’m done.“If your dad’s friend hadn’t been there…” She pauses and lets out a harsh breath.“I don’t even want to think about it.I’m just glad you’re safe.”
I make a face.“I don’t think I’ll feel totally safe until the creep is arrested.”
“True.I’m worried for you being there by yourself.You need protection.Get a baseball bat and put a sock on the end of it.If he tries to grab it, he won’t get a good hold, and then you can wail on him.”
Talking about the intruder and the police had stirred up fresh anxiety, but Penny’s response makes me laugh.It’s funny that a compassionate person like her could suggest such violence.
“I won’t be by myself.Malcolm is moving into your room… the one that used to be yours.”
“That’s nice.He’s a good guy for looking out for you like that.”She pauses.“But won’t that be weird?”
“Weird how?”
“Well, for one, you can’t walk around with no pants on like you love to do.”
“Says the pot to the kettle.”
We share a laugh, then she continues.
“What about when you bring a date home for… you know…fun activities…and he’s there?Or ifhedoes, andyou’rethere?”
I hadn’t thought of the possibility that Malcolm might bring a date to the apartment.That would bother me, even if I’m not home.
