Page 20 of Grady

“It’s a rare lamp. I have others.”

“No, I’ll take it. She’s worth it.”

“Great. I’ll wrap it for you if you don’t mind waiting.”

“I don’t. I’ll just look around while you do. What’s your dog’s name?”

“Bentley.”

“Well, Bentley can keep me company. Can’t you boy?” Grady rubbed the dog’s ears.

“Okay. I’ll be right back.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

Grady watched her disappear into another room, and he wandered through the store with the dog on his heels. He glanced into a room and was surprised to see all the dollhouses. He moved closer to them and was in awe of how real they looked.

“They’re pretty, aren’t they?”

Grady turned to see Vanna behind him and nodded. “Yeah, they are. The details are amazing.”

“Every time I get a new one, I fall in love with it and want to take it home.”

Grady grinned and tilted his head. “So, how many do you have?”

She shook her head. “Not a one.”

“What? Why not?”

She shrugged. “It’s a long story.”

“I see.”

“The lamp is wrapped. I hope whoever you’re giving it to, likes it.”

“She will. My dad helped me with that.”

“Oh, okay.”

They stared at each other for a few minutes, then Vanna turned away from him and walked behind the counter.

“This is a great place. My mother would love it.”

“Is that who the lamp is for?”

“Yes. Her birthday is next week.”

“That’s a wonderful present for her.”

“I’m sure she’ll like it. She loves antiques.”

“Bring her by sometime.” Vanna smiled.

“I’ll do that.” Grady handed her his credit card. She ran it and handed it back to him, along with the receipt.

“Oh, thank you for buying lunch the other day. It was very kind of you.”

“You’re welcome.”

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