Page 19 of Grady

“Do you have anything like this?”

Vanna took his phone and nodded. “I not only have something like it, I have that exact lamp.”

“Really? Well, I want it for a birthday gift.”

“Okay. You can come into the shop anytime and get it.”

“How about after lunch?”

“Sure. I’m getting mine to go, so once you finish yours, come to the store. Do you want it gift wrapped?”

“Yeah, that would be great. I’m not good at wrapping gifts.”

Vanna laughed. “A lot of men aren’t. I’ll let you look at it first though.”

“Hey, Vanna, here’s your lunch, hon.” Connie set a bag in front of her on the counter.

Vanna stood, opened her purse, and paid Connie, then she looked at Grady.

“I’ll see you soon.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

She picked up the bag, then went out the door. Grady watched her until she went past the window. He looked at Connie to see her smiling.

“Nope. Don’t even think about it.”

Connie laughed. “She’s a beautiful woman.”

“I agree, but don’t you dare think about matchmaking, Connie.”

“Me? Would I do that?”

“In a damn heartbeat.” Grady grinned when she laughed again.

“I’ll get your lunch, and you let me know if you need anything else.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

After finishing his lunch and paying for it, he walked out of the diner, then headed toward the store. He was glad he’d run into Vanna. At least it wouldn’t be a wasted trip.

He opened the door, stepped inside and saw her talking with a customer, then he noticed a dog trotting toward him. He grinned and squatted down.

“Hey, buddy. Are you the security?” He chuckled when the dog tried to get closer, almost knocking him down, then he stood and nodded at Vanna. He walked around the store while she dealt with the customer and the dog followed him. There was furniture in one section and vintage clothing in another. Then hespotted the lamps sitting on tables.

When he heard the chime ring, he looked toward the door to see the customer leaving with a box in her hands.

“The lamp is over here, Grady.”

“Alright.” He walked to where she stood and looked at the lamp. “That’s it alright. I’m sure she’ll love it.”

“It’s not cheap,” Vanna said, nibbling on her bottom lip.

“Are you trying to talk me out of buying it?” he asked with a grin.

“No, I’m just preparing you.” She turned the tag over.

Grady looked at it. “Holy sh—” he stopped himself from swearing in front of her.

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