by Autumn Reed
I didn’t know much about cars, but I could tell this one was a classic. With its candy-apple red color, chrome accents, and sleek design, I’d never seen a car that was so manly and pretty all at the same time. “Wow. What kind of car is this?” I didn’t dare touch it as we approached, certain it must have been worth a small fortune.
“This, my dear, is a 1967 Mustang. She’s a beauty, isn’t she?” He said with a grin. He opened the passenger door and waved his hand, inviting me to get in.
My mouth opened in shock. “We’re taking this to go shopping?”
He shrugged. “Why not? It’s technically Knox’s car, but he’s nice enough to let me take it out for a spin now and then. Come on, hop in. It’s shopping time.” He was practically jumping up and down with excitement, and I laughed at his enthusiasm.
“This is Knox’s car? For some reason, I pictured him riding a motorcycle.”
Theo scoffed. “Oh, he does. I’m sure you’ll see the black beast soon enough. But Knox basically lives and breathes cars, so he has several. The Mustang is his baby since he spent years restoring it to pristine condition.”
I couldn’t help but be impressed. Clearly there was more to Knox than muscles and a gruff personality.
The seat squished pleasantly beneath me, warming my legs. The leather smelled fresh and the interior was immaculate. Theo closed the door with a flourish before practically skipping around to the driver’s side.
Theo smiled as he drove with one hand on the wheel, the other leaning against the window sill. It was a nice day, and we had the windows cracked letting the fresh air breeze through. I glanced from side to side, trying to see as much as I could without gawking. As we drove away from the loft, the area became more residential and then changed slowly to a row of shops.
The main street had a mix of one- and two-story buildings that looked older but had fresh paint. The large glass window storefronts, flowers outside, and colorful window displays created a charming effect. Some of the shops were stationery stores, others had flowers in the window, and many had clothing or household items. With parking spots lining the street in front of the stores, pedestrians traversed the sidewalk and street.
When Theo pulled into a parking spot near the upscale-looking boutiques, I looked around nervously. “Um, do you think we could go to Kohl’s or Target instead? I don’t have much money.” I had stuffed my only cash in my pocket before leaving the loft, and I guessed that it wouldn’t go far in this neighborhood.
“Don’t worry about it. This shopping trip is on Knox, so you might as well take advantage of it. I may even have to buy myself something pretty,” he said with a cheeky grin.
I hesitated. I felt a little better with Knox paying, but my stomach still clenched with unease. “I don’t know.”
Without responding, Theo jogged around to my side and opened the door. “Haley, get out of the car. I promise not to go overboard . . . at least today.” He grabbed my crutches from the back seat and held them out, waiting.
Reluctantly, I slid off of the leather seat and took the crutches. “Okay, let’s go.” Maybe we could just pick up a few things quickly and be on our way. Somehow, I doubted that.
It was still early in the day and despite the sunshine, chilly under the shade of the store awnings. Fortunately, there weren’t many other people out; navigating the sidewalk on crutches with shop doors opening and closing was enough of an obstacle course. Theo strode along beside me, confident and focused. I tried to imagine Knox being this excited about shopping and almost snorted aloud.
We passed a few clothing stores but moved on after I shook my head; one had western-style outfits and another was full of short skirts and crazy patterns. So far, nothing really looked like anything I would wear. Finally, Theo opened the door of a shop, smiling and inviting me to enter as a small bell rang in the distance, heralding our arrival.
Stepping over the threshold, I was surprised by how inviting the store was; it felt almost cozy. Music played softly in the background, muffling the sounds of the few other shoppers. A subtle floral scent drifted through the air.
Clothes hung around the edges with large wooden tables scattered throughout. The tables displayed a variety of items: jeans, T-shirts, folded sweaters, even jewelry. There were several well-dressed mannequins. Distracted by my observations, I hadn’t even noticed that Theo was no longer standing with me until he popped up at my side holding a dress.
I looked at it and scrunched up my nose. It was an orange-red color and had a short hem and cutout back.
Theo sighed. “Okay, Haley. You’re going to have to help me out here since you haven’t liked any of my suggestions so far. What is your usual style?”
I looked at him in confusion. It was a question that had never crossed my mind. My dad wasn’t any help with clothes, so I had always just chosen inexpensive pieces that fit comfortably. It had never occurred to me to consider my style, or if I even had one.
“I honestly don’t know. I don’t have any experience with fashion.” I glanced around the store, hoping something would catch my eye. Spotting a tailored chambray shirt, I held it up. “How about this?”
Theo tilted his head, looking at the shirt and then scanning me from head to toe. “So, you’re a classic girl. Okay, I can work with that. You should pair that top,” pointing to the chambray shirt, “with these capris,” grabbing a pair of coral capris in a light denim fabric. “Size six, right?”
Surprised, I nodded. “How did you know?”
He grinned as he led me toward the fitting room, selecting a few other items along the way. “Good guess.”
Seeing what Theo indicated was the fitting room made me pause. I was used to the standard hallway of white doors where you picked one and it was basic but had a lock. How could he expect me to go behind a velvet curtain strung across a rod like a shower curtain and take my clothes off? Someone could walk in at any moment!
I swallowed and stepped into the small space complete with a full-length mirror and stool. If Theo said it was okay, and obviously other shoppers had to do the same, I figured I was overreacting. Theo hung the clothes on a rod and then held me lightly by the shoulders. “You have to show me everything you try on, even if you don’t like it, so I can get a better feel for fit and style. Okay?” I nodded, distracted by the adorable freckles that kissed the bridge of his pale nose and cheeks.
As I slipped on the first outfit, I wondered at my lack of embarrassment when Theo looked me over and then guessed my size. Apparently I felt comfortable with him in a way that was a complete surprise. I knew if I’d had the same encounter with Ethan or even Chase, my face would have turned an unflattering shade of red.
When I stepped out of the fitting room, Theo immediately walked toward me, eyeing me closely. “Turn around,” he said, twirling his finger.
I slowly turned in a circle and then watched him, curious for his reaction. For once he wasn’t smiling; instead, his expression was all-business. After a few long seconds of silence, he finally spoke. “That top isn’t right. It’s too trendy. And the jeans are okay, but we can do better. Next outfit.”
After modeling everything Theo picked out, we settled on the chambray shirt, coral capris, and a pair of jeans. Theo ripped the tags off the shirt and capris and told me to change while he went to pay. I felt strange putting on clothes we were buying right then, but I was relieved to look more presentable for the rest of our shopping trip.
As I approached the counter, I noticed that the sales girl was leaning on the counter talking to Theo. She was probably a few years older than me and very pretty, with shoulder length black hair cut in a sleek bob. Her makeup was dramatic; her eyes were lined in black and her lipstick was deep red, giving her the look of a modern day Snow White.
Theo laughed at something she said, and I hesitated, almost feeling like I was interrupting. She saw me then and straightened, handing the shopping bags to Theo.
Theo must have noticed the change in her demeanor and followed her
gaze. Spotting me, he winked. “There’s my partner in crime.” The girl looked she’d just taken a bite out of a poisoned apple.
I followed Theo out the door. Now that he had pinned me as a “classic girl,” he no longer pointed out store windows seeking my response. Theo carried the bags as we walked down the sidewalk with a sense of purpose.
I probably shouldn’t have brought it up, but my curiosity got the best of me. “So, do you know that girl?”
Theo stopped in his tracks, “What?”
“The girl in the last shop. I thought maybe you knew her since the two of you seemed friendly.”
Theo started walking again. “Oh, no, I don’t know her. She was just being nice because it’s part of her job. Anyway, did you know that the word ‘jeans’ came from the French word for ‘Genoa’ because Genoase sailors wore clothes made from denim material?” As he continued spouting random fashion facts, he seemed to be talking faster and faster. Is he nervous?
The day had warmed up and there were more shoppers out; wearing my new clothes, I almost felt like I fit in. Passing small cafés with outdoor tables and flower boxes, the smell of coffee and savory food drifted by. I looked at the diners’ faces and studied them as they laughed, talked, and ate. Is this what normal people live like? Is that what I look like, even if just for the day?
Theo slowed as we approached another storefront, breaking me from my reverie. When he cleared his throat and shifted from one foot to the other, I looked closer at the shop, confused. Once I saw the frilly garments on display, understanding dawned. This should be interesting.
“So, I thought you might want to do this shopping without me. But, I can go in with you if you need my help.” His eyes widened, and then he stuttered, “Not that you would need my help, help. I just meant, I can stay with you if you don’t want to be alone.” I would have found his flustered rambling endearing if the situation hadn’t been so awkward. Apparently my easy comfort with him only went so far.
Thankful that he was giving me a choice, I quickly replied, “No, I’ll be fine.”
His shoulders dropped in relief. Pointing to a coffee shop directly across the street, he said, “I’ll be over there getting a much-needed caffeine fix. Do you want anything?” I shook my head. “Okay, I’ll be watching for you, so just wait right here when you’re done.” He quickly shoved a few bills in my hand before he opened the door to the shop and waved good-bye.
Entering the store, I felt like I was stepping into another world. The space was small, intimate, and suffused with the smell of fresh flowers. The lighting was dimmed, and sheer white curtains filtered the bright sunlight from outside.
A crystal chandelier hung over a circular table topped with a rainbow of lace panties fanned in a circle. Beautiful antique mirrors with glass-etched patterns added to the illusion of being inside a jewel box. Carved tables and gilded armoires showcased an astounding array of bras and various other undergarments.
With a name like “Underwear” there was little doubt in my mind as to the goods sold. But some of the items astounded me: plastic bras that adhered to your chest like giant stickers, lacy dresses, and items that didn’t seem to cover much at all. Fortunately, I found underwear, bras, and casual sleepwear that were more my style. While I cringed at the cost, I dreaded Theo’s response if I returned empty-handed. I breezed through the dressing room and checked out quickly, anxious to be done.
When I stepped outside, I held my hand up to shield my eyes from the glaring sun. Almost immediately, Theo exited the coffee shop and jogged across the street. “Apparently we need to pick you up sunglasses too. But let’s take a break first and get lunch.”
We dropped the shopping bags off at the car before stopping at a charming café for lunch. After a delicious salad and a break from my crutches, I felt refreshed.
When we approached another clothing store, Theo opened the door for me. “This store should be a little more to your taste. I bet we can finish most of our shopping in here.”
Energized by the possibility of finishing soon, I put more effort into looking for clothes that I liked.
As we wandered around, Theo asked, “So, Haley, what’s your favorite color?”
“Sapphire blue,” I responded instantaneously.
He peered down at my right hand. “I’m not surprised, considering your ring. And it’s your birthstone, right?”
How did he know when my birthday was? Oh yeah, Knox or one of the others must have mentioned it. “Yes. The ring was actually my mom’s.” I bit my tongue. Why did I tell him that?
“It’s a beautiful ring.” He must have sensed that I was feeling uncomfortable because he continued on and changed the subject while he gathered more clothes for me to try on.
This was one of the few stores we had shopped in that also had men’s clothing, and apparently Theo couldn’t resist the allure. He fingered collared shirts in a variety of colors and patterns, and I could hear him muttering excitedly to himself. Stopping at a plaid one, I heard the name “Ethan” as he nodded to himself. Does he shop for Ethan too?
When I entered the fitting room this time, the bar was full of clothes to try on, mostly selected by Theo. I noticed several pieces in blue and smiled. Apparently he approved of my favorite color.
I made quick work of the pile, finding many options that I loved. Since Theo had already established my general style and size, pretty much everything he picked out worked. But when I got to the last dress on the bar, I groaned. It was gorgeous, but I would never pick it out for myself. I was tempted to put it with my other discarded items but doubted Theo would let me get away without at least showing it to him.
As I slipped it on, I relished the feel of the silky fabric against my skin. The dress was a beautiful sapphire color and fit me like a glove. My bra peeked out from the thin spaghetti straps, but I didn’t dare try the dress on without it. The neckline dipped into a deep V, showing just enough cleavage to draw attention without exposing too much. It was fitted down to my waist and then flared at my hips. The short hem was somewhat extended by a few alternating stripes of white and sheer fabric, each about an inch in width.
I smoothed my hands over the fabric and sighed. I was slightly uncomfortable with how revealing the dress was. But I also knew that I had never looked better. It actually reminded me of the dress I’d worn on my birthday but was much nicer and definitely more flirtatious.
I stood fidgeting and looking in the mirror, still wondering if I could avoid showing Theo. I sucked in a few deep breaths. Come on, Haley. Just do it. I pushed back the curtain and took a small step out of the fitting room. I expected Theo to walk toward me like usual, but he appeared to be frozen to his chair. He blinked rapidly before continuing to stare, his focus unwavering.
“Sweet Sassafras.”
He twirled his finger once again before resting it momentarily on his lips; I obediently turned in a slow circle. As he approached, I hesitantly asked, “It’s too much, right?” I had no idea what he was thinking, but I was certainly feeling self-conscious.
Theo looked stunned. “Too much? Are you kidding me? You are absolute perfection in that dress.”
I nervously twisted a strand of hair around my finger. “Are you sure? Don’t you think it’s, um, a little too tight? And too short?” I glanced down my body, still a little surprised to see so much uncovered skin.
Theo gently pushed up my chin with his finger and said, “Haley, look at me.” I forced myself to stare into his eyes and for the first time noticed that they were an intriguing shade of hazel instead of brown like I’d originally thought. With dark green around the edges and a coppery brown toward the pupil, I stood transfixed.
“The fit is divine. I promise.” He gently turned me until I was facing the mirror. Pointing to my shoulders, he continued, “See how these delicate straps show off your lovely collar bone and décolletage?”
I blushed and looked away, but he pressed on. Lifting the fabric away from my stomach, he said, “See how the fabric
lays against your skin but doesn’t cling?” He lightly placed his hands on my hips and my skin burned at his touch. “The seam here even falls right at your natural waist, showcasing your hourglass figure.”
He paused for a moment, skimming his eyes down to the hem. “And, this dress is in no way too short. Why not show off your legs?” His grin widened as he likely noticed the rapidly spreading pink staining my cheeks.
I stared into the mirror, astonished by Theo’s appreciative comments. I considered myself pretty in a normal girl sort of way, but his reaction to seeing me in this dress made me feel extraordinary.
Theo stepped back and leaned against the wall outside the fitting room, letting out a breath. “Haley, this dress is obviously outside of your comfort zone, but I really hope you’ll get it. The fit and color are perfect for you, and I think you’ll end up regretting it if you don’t.”
Unsure what to say, I slowly nodded, “I’ll think about it.” I shut the curtain and carefully removed and hung up the dress. I sat down on the bench and slumped against the wall. Who knew trying on a dress could be so . . . I searched for the right word . . . intense?
Despite my initial hesitation, I had truly enjoyed the day with Theo. He intrigued me. He clearly had a vast wealth of knowledge and yet, he seemed very creative, artsy, sensual even. Although I had just met Theo this morning, I already felt like we had been friends for years.
Sneaking Suspicions
I stood in front of the guest room closet, debating my options. Since I didn’t know what I would be doing today, I finally selected pink shorts and a lightweight navy and white striped sweater. After slipping on my new pair of gray canvas sneakers, I considered my reflection in the full-length mirror and smiled. For the first time since my birthday, I looked like my usual self, although somewhat improved due to the nicer clothes. I had to give Theo credit; he knew how to pick out clothes that were both flattering and comfortable.
I should have felt guiltier about letting Theo spend Knox’s money to buy me clothes. But Knox’s hand in my kidnapping helped assuage some of that guilt. I knew it probably wasn’t rational to blame him for the decision to drug me and bring me to Santa Cruz, but I didn’t care. Although the guys had never stated that Knox was in charge, his authority at the cabin was obvious. His unapologetic attitude when I confronted him yesterday still made me grind my teeth in frustration.