Page 66 of Between Two Shores

Nancy stepped closer and held it under Beth’s chin. “Perfect.”

Her brows rose. “You want me to wear this?”

“You’ll look stunning. Try it.” Nancy’s face beamed.

Beth took the hanger and peeked at the price tag. Her eyes widened. “It’s way out of my budget. ‘Cotton On’ is what I can afford right now.”

“I’m paying.” Nancy patted Beth’s arm. “You can’t visit San Diego and miss out on the experience of a five-star restaurant with an ocean view.”

“Oh. Which evening are we going out for dinner?”

“Lachlan will take you one night. I’ll make sure he does.”

How could she explain to Nancy that this wasn’t the type of dress she’d wear out—on any occasion? “Nancy, I don’t—”

“Just try it on.” Nancy shooed her to the fitting room. “Go. I want to see it on you. You’ll look great.”

Beth did as she was told and squeezed into the dress. Since her shoes didn’t match, she kept them off and stepped out to the catwalk.

“Gorgeous!” Nancy oozed. “Turn around.” She waved her finger in a circle.

Beth’s cheeks warmed. She twirled quickly, the swish cooling her naked shoulder blades.

Nancy’s gaze meandered from her toes to her waist. “You’ve got great legs, Beth. You should show them off more.” She crossed her arms. “I have spider veins and find stockings too warm.” Nancy stood back, assessing her further. “Before you have children, you should take advantage of your thin waistline. You look amazing. It’s perfect. Let’s get that one.”

Beth blinked. “Oh. Please, don’t fuss over me. This is way too much.”

“Think nothing of it. You need some pampering after what you’ve been through. Lachlan can take you out and treat you like a queen. That’s what you deserve.”

“I’m not sure he’ll be as keen as you to take me out to a fancy restaurant. Sounds more like a date.”

She waved away the comment. “He’ll be happy to. Lachlan cares about you and would want you to feel special. And you are. So, let me buy the dress.”

Beth fingered the hem. When she got back to Australia, she could lower it two inches and raise the back scoop. The material was exquisite, and it would be a shame to only wear it once when it cost so much. “Are you sure?”

“Positive. Let’s find some heels and accessories next.”

Beth swallowed and gave in to Nancy’s generosity. It was so much easier to give than receive. Beth needed to work on that.

LACHLAN

Lachlan had finished a vigorous day of bathroom renovations and yearned for a relaxing night at Mom’s. She had other plans for him. Said Beth wanted to experience fine dining on the waterfront. Mom had already made reservations. Apparently, she wanted to pick up the tab. His parents were always generous, but he preferred to pay the bill himself. Beth was his friend, and if she wanted a fancy dinner in San Diego, he’d make it happen.

Lachlan put on the suit pants he’d last worn at a friend’s wedding. Workouts on the ship left the material a little tight around his thighs. He’d have them adjusted for the next time. On his bed, he laid out the two dress shirts he’d bought since he’d come back. The long-sleeved white Jameson would go best with his Prussian blue jacket.

Next, he added a touch of hair wax and a splash of Wild organic cologne his sister brought him last Christmas. Then he headed to his parents’ house to collect Beth.

The front door was locked, so he pressed the bell. The door swung open, and the sight of long legs nearly knocked him over.

His gaze cruised bare slender arms, and a dazzling dress that highlighted all her curves. Was this really Beth? He blinked.

“Whoa . . . you dressed up. I should’ve worn a tie.”

She clung to her purse. “It’s a bit over the top, isn’t it?” she whispered.

He leaned forward. “Why are you whispering?”

“Your mother picked this from the mall today and insisted I wear it tonight.”

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