Page 40 of Obsessed Heir

But Holly’s entire demeanor shifts. “That’s a great idea!” Her scrutinizing gaze travels over me in an assessing once-over that leaves me feeling uncomfortably exposed. “You’d be perfect.”

My fork clatters out of my hand as I sit up straight. “No-no-no.” I shake my head vehemently. “Your sonwould notappreciate this, Miss Opal.”

“I have free rein to do whatever I need to in order to make this successful.” A conspiratorial grin plays along Holly’s lips. “That means having pictures up on the website before the week is done.”

Before I can even come up with another objection, Miss Opal leans forward to pat my arm.

“Abby, you can’t say no,” she pleads. “Not when Barron and Holly need you for this project. Without your help, they’ll never stay on task.”

My mouth snaps shut as she takes the wind from my sails.

Holly’s face lights up as she settles back in her chair. “Wonderful! I already have the perfect idea for your look.”

Ah damn.

Chapter Fifteen

Abigail

Half an hour later, after helping Miss Opal get settled in her room, we’re back in the elevator, on the way to the shopping area.

“I’m so glad you’re up to helping with this project,” Holly says, sounding rather proud of herself.

“You heard Miss Opal. I’m supposed to help you in any way I can.” I do my best to produce a smile, even though my tummy has a stampede of butterflies. Why didn’t I leave the cabin when I had the chance? Then I wouldn’t have ended up roped into Holly’s plan.

“This just came to me yesterday, so I’m still fleshing out all the details,” Holly explains as we move down the hall at a brisk pace. “But I’d say you’re absolutely perfect for it,” she exclaims, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

Despite the early hour, the area is bustling with passengers milling about the various stores. We weave through the crowds until we reach the section where I was yesterday when Barronfound me. With any luck, I’ll be able to browse without him stalking me like the villain out of a slasher movie.

“I believe you’ve already been through some of our shops,” Holly comments offhandedly. She smiles automatically as people greet her along the way.

“Only a bit,” I reply, hoping she doesn’t start asking questions that lead to yesterday’s awkward run-in with Barron. I couldn’t deal with explaining the complicated relationship I have with Miss Opal’s son.

“I’d love to pick your brain about the setup once we have a minute to sit and chat.”

What feedback could I possibly give her? I barely made it into the shop when Barron showed up. Then I ended up moving blindly through the stores until…

To my horror, Holly heads straight into the lingerie shop I unwittingly stumbled into yesterday. The scent of flowers, spices, and leather surrounds us, taking me back to that awkward moment.

“Good morning,” an attendant greets us. “Welcome ab-aboard.” The woman does a double take when we walk into the store.

“Good morning,” Holly replies.

“Good morning,” I echo, trailing in behind Holly at a slower pace.

“Oh, Miss Reed,” she says, rushing over to us. “May I help you?”

Holly glances across the store.

“Oh.” She holds a finger up in front of herself. “I found who I need.” Then she points to the lady who greeted me yesterday.

“Camille,” the saleslady calls out, “Miss Reed wants to talk to you.”

“Hi, Camille,” she says with a friendly smile, catching the other saleslady’s attention. “Would you help us?”

“Yes, of course,” Camille replies, sounding a little apprehensive. Her face lights up as she comes around the counter. “Oh, you decided to come back.”

“Um, kind of,” I hedge because implying I had any part in this decision would be a stretch. I curl my toes inside my shoes as she flashes an encouraging smile.

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