Page 42 of Theirs to Corrupt

“How about when you join me for lunch?” When she doesn’t have a quick response, I tell Amelia, “We’ll take it.”

Tessa opens her mouth to argue, but she says nothing.

The next dress is more practical, shorter, suitable for business, professional, and social gatherings. One of Amelia’s picks, if I recall.

“Great choice,” I tell her. Then I ask Amelia, “Do you also have it in other colors?”

“Royal blue,” she says.

“I like this color,” Tessa protests.

“So do I.” I nod. “We want both.”

“Both?” Tessa echoes.

“You’ve got good taste,” I say simply. “The fit is flattering, and you like it. You should have it in every color.”

She shakes her head. “You’re impossible.”

Turns out, I enjoy spoiling her.

A few minutes later, Tessa appears again, in a tailored blazer and slim-cut trousers, along with the green blouse I chose.

She takes my breath away.

In this suit, she’s a force to be reckoned with.

I can’t wait to have her by my side.

“A couple more shirts and sweaters will make this outfit more versatile,” Amelia says. “Stay there for a moment.”

“Link, really. We have more than enough now.” With a concerned frown, she checks the price tag of the jacket.

“Wait and see what Amelia suggests. She might be able to pull together a number of different outfits with only a couple more pieces.” This may be the first time someone has taken Tessa shopping with no budget in mind. But it’s also the first time I’ve entered a shop with a woman who has glanced at the cost of something.

Amelia returns with several tops, another skirt, a second pair of trousers, and one more blazer. “You’ve got at least a dozen outfits here by mixing and matching,” she says. “Add some accessories, shoes, and boots, and you can go from summer to winter.”

I nod in agreement, but Tessa shakes her head. “There’s no way I need this much stuff.”

“If we don’t take her advice, we’ll need to come back next season.” I keep my voice reasonable.

“Which is fine,” Amelia agrees. “We’re constantly getting in new stock. And we’ll have a trunk show in October where we highlight our winter collection. We’ll even have holiday dresses.”

“No.” Tessa’s protest is immediate. “This is fine.”

With a resigned sigh, she returns to try on more pieces.

I veto some because they are too loose on her, and a couple I request in a smaller size.

“You know,” Amelia says, “I could use you as a model for the trunk show. You’ve got the look.”

Tessa pales, and her eyes grow wide.

She’s so accustomed to being in hiding that the thought must terrify her.

At some point, I hope she has the confidence to accept that kind of compliment.

“Now the evening wear,” I prompt.

---