Page 64 of My Eternal Light

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Zadie wanted to like the robes but no matter how many she tried on; she couldn’t muster up the enthusiasm.

The older woman, Baba, hummed and grunted here and there as she handed things to her.

“Is it the colors or the fabric?” the woman finally asked.

Zadie thought about it. “I don’t think I like that it’s like a dress. I work with children. I need to be able to move. Pants would be great.”

“Ahh, now we’re getting somewhere.” Baba went to the storeroom and came back carrying a stack of items. She set the stack on the long bench in the changing area. “Try those and let me know what you think.”

She looked at Kincaid, who was sitting with his elbows on the arms of the chair, his hands folded under his chin. He waited patiently with a smile. She sighed happily.

Baba chuckled.

Zadie shrugged at being caught staring. “That one is mine,” she said, pointing.

Baba’s expression softened. “He’s a good one. All the boys are good, but he is full of light. Like his older brothers, I fear for that most days.”

She placed a hand on the woman’s shoulder. “Don’t worry Baba, I’m violent enough to keep that intact.”

“Aye, you have that air about you, like the little one. Survivors, both of you.”

Zadie winked and Baba laughed. “I do feel better knowing you can take care of yourself and him if need be.”

“Zadie, I’ll be right back, there’s something I need to pick up,” Kincaid said, putting his phone away. He stood and stretched.

“I’ll be here,” she said, pointing to the store. He walked over, gave her a quick kiss, then walked out.

She turned to Baba. “Let me go see what you have,” Zadie said, heading to the changing room.

She walked in and shut the door. Looking at the stack she sighed.

“I heard that! Just try ‘em on!”

Shaking her head, she undressed and began unfolding the items to try on. The first thing she picked up looked to be a blouse. It was cut to resemble the top half of the dress robes but ended at the top of her thighs.

Curious, she reached for the second item. When she popped them out, she was delighted to discover they were wide legged pants, similar to harem pants she had seen online. When standing, it looked similar to a pleated skirt, but she was able to bend down and more importantly. Move. She opened the door.

As soon as Baba saw her face she began to smile. “I knew I’d find something.”

“Baba, these are amazing! They’re so stylish and comfortable.”

“I only have the two sets I handed you. But, I can get started on some more. I have some self-cleaning cloth that would be perfect for you, being around little ones all day.”

Zadie clutched at her chest. “Self-cleaning?”

“Aye. Heard some witch out of Noctem Falls is producing sheets as well. Makes sense with all these warriors mating. I can’t imagine that is neat business at all.”

“Baba!” Zadie said, pretending to be scandalized.

“Ha!” She waved a finger at her. “Try not to break the poor boy.”

“I make no promises. I heard there are healers around here somewhere.”

“Wow, Zadie, those look perfect!” Kincaid said, walking up carrying something in his hands.

Blushing she looked at Baba who looked like butter wouldn’t melt in her mouth.

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