Page 361 of Dark Love

“That’s where we’re going. I promise you’ll find something you’ll like.”

That isn’t in question. I like practically everything in there—except some of the more off-the-wall styles—but those price tags are going to hurt.

Stop stressing. You can afford to buy an outfit regardless of the price. It’ll sting a little, but when are you ever going to get to go shopping in a place like this with a man like Vex by your side ever again?

Never. That’s when.

Enjoy the moment. It’ll be an odd memory that you can share with the little old ladies in the retirement home. “I know I will.”

Devious Man

Dahlia

Vex chucks the wrapper into the bin right as two men open the doors for us. It’s grand, ostentatious, and perfect for this place.

A woman right around my age rushes up. “Good morning, Vex.” She smiles like she knows him.

“Hello, Crystal. How are you today?” He gives her a friendly nod. His lips tip up slightly but don’t quite make it to a smile.

“Wonderful.” Hers gets even wider. “Nic loves the beer you sent over. I can’t believe you were able to get it. We haven’t been able to find it anywhere in Urbium.”

“Glad tohear that.”

Vex got a present for this woman and—based on the two rings on her finger—her husband.

“I have a room all set up for you and your friend.” Her eyes move to me for the first time. They’re assessing. She doesn’t miss the fact that I’m wearing Vex’s clothes or that my hair doesn’t have a speck of product in it. “I’m Crystal. It’s nice to meet you.”

“Prudence, but please call me Prue.”

“Vex said this trip is all about you. What are you looking for today?”

To run home and hide. I certainly don’t want to explain what I want to her. “We can just wander around and browse.”

Her face falls like I broke her heart.

“What Dahlia means is we’d love your help to look for several outfits for her. Dahlia is just a bit shy.”

Crystal perks up.

Several? “Just one. All I need is something to wear today.”

“Oh?” Crystal’s gaze moves back to my outfit.

“All my clothing was ruined, and Vex kindly lent me something to wear.”

Crystal leans forward and conspiratorially whispers, “Vex is one of the kindest men I’ve ever met. Don’t let his scary exterior trick you.”

“He does seem like a nice man.” I smile over at him. “But I haven’t known him very long.”

“Shall we walk and talk?” Crystal motions to me.

I let go of Vex’s arm and move to her side. “So how long have you known Vex?”

“Since I was a child.”

It’s interesting that she didn’t mention Vex being one, too. “Oh really? Then you’re the one to ask for all the dirt on him.”

She freezes. “No. I’m not. But I can tell you some good things about him that others don’t know.”

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