Page 55 of Stolen Kisses

Feeling the gorgeous soft lace between my fingers, I sigh. Fabric this delicate can’t support boobs our size. My boobs seem to have grown bigger since I had the boys; they certainly sag more than they used to.

“I actually think I need to be measured properly. My boobs have changed a lot since I became pregnant and then breastfed the boys.” I look down at the girls. “I think that’s why I’m having so much trouble with my bras lately.”

“Well, let’s get you measured.” She drags me over to the sales consultant. “Excuse me. Hello …” She looks at the assistant’s name badge. “Dawn.Are you able to measure my sister for a bra today?”

Dawn smiles at us. “Sure. I’d be happy to help you out today.” She looks at me. “When were you last fitted for a bra properly?”

“Hi, Dawn. Thank you.” I stop, trying to remember. “Some time before I fell pregnant the first time. Hmmm … maybe nine, ten years ago.” I can’t believe it’s been that long.

“Well, you’re definitely due to be measured and properly fitted. We recommend getting it done every twelve months.”

Sarah and I both gasp. “I had no idea we were supposed to do it so frequently.” I’m shocked. I look down at my girls and silently apologize for my neglect.

“Not many people do. Did you know your bra size can change five times in your lifetime?Soit’s a good idea to do this.” She gestures toward the back of the store. “If you would like to follow me, we can get started.”

“I know we’re here for you, but would you mind if I got measured, too?” Sarah whispers.

“Of course not. It’s not just about me.” I nudge her with my elbow. “Let’s hope we can get something at least a little bit sexy.”

She winks at me. “Trying to impress your new sexy neighbor? Youdorealize I’m not buying it that nothing’s happened. The way he was always touching you at the beach. The way he wanted to cover you up so nobody else could see you in your bikini. I’m thinking he’s your boyfriend!”

I swallow hard. “He’s not my boyfriend. He’s just affectionate, that’s all.”

She sniffs the air. “I smell bullshit!”

Dawn pulls back the curtain to the dressing room. “Please remove your top, leave your bra on, and let me know when you’re ready for me.”

I nod as she slides the curtain closed. Removing my top quickly, I adjust my bra, tie my hair up out of the way, and let her know I’m ready. She efficiently measures underneath my boobs, then across the fullest part of my breasts.

“Okay, so what size bra are you wearing today, if I may ask?”

“Uhm, I think it’s a 32E. But it’s been digging in here.” I show her the area that’s been causing me grief. “It’s really uncomfortable and a little painful, to be honest.”

She runs her fingers gently over the area. As her brows furrow, she asks, “Have you been to see your doctor about this? I don’t think this lump has been caused by your bra.”

“Really? What do you think it could be?” I run my fingers over the painful area.

Her eyes widen. “Look, I just work in a lingerie store, I’m not a medical practitioner, so I really couldn’t say. I’d just suggest you get yourself checked out.”

“Oh, okay.” I shrug.

“Right, so you said you’re currently wearing size 32E. My measurements today indicate you actually need a 34F.”

I’m shocked. “Really? No wonder my bras are feeling so uncomfortable. Do you even have anything remotely pretty or sexy in that size?”

Her face lights up and a smile grows. “We sure do.When you’re dressed,come outtome. I’ll show you where we keep bras for women with fuller busts like yourself.”

“Thanks. Maybe you can measure Sarah while I take a look.”

Dawn directs me over to the section I need to look at, then heads back to the dressing room to measure Sarah.

As I’m looking through the bras on offer, my phone buzzes in my purse. The boys are at Mom and Dad’s for the weekend, that’s why Sarah and I thought we’d use the opportunity to do some shopping and have some girl time. I hope there’s nothing wrong. When I pull it out of my purse, I’m surprised to find it’s a message from Theo.

Theo: Kenny’s staying at Dad’s tonight

My heart thunders in my chest. Does this mean what I think it means? Another message comes through.

Theo: I hope you’re ready for me, Peaches