things like blush. “I take a commission,” she protested. “I’m
not a saint.”
“Still. It’s amazing. You help people get their name out
there. And it makes the store look wonderful. All colorful and
vibrant.”
“It helps fill the wall space. Anyway…” Dani had no idea
why she couldn’t just get to the point. She was normally very
direct. “I thought maybe you’d like to put some of your work
in there. I know it’s not your mom’s show or a spot for well-
known artists, but I do have a few empty spaces.”
“Yes!” Emily clasped her hands and stood on her tiptoes
before rocking back down to her heels. “That would be
amazing!” She was so excited that she looked like a little kid.
The bright yellow and overalls didn’t help. She was utterly
adorable and so pleased, even for such a small opportunity.
Dani felt that strange pull deep in her chest again, followed
by a flutter in her stomach. She didn’t let it get further before
tamping down on the emotion. She needed a distraction. She
needed to get out of her tiny little apartment that was so full of
Emily’s presence.
“Do you want to go to the beach?” Dani blurted. She was
shocked at herself. For one, she didn’t really even like the
beach. For two, she didn’t own a bathing suit.
“Uh…” Emily was astounded, but she quickly came around.
“New Orleans doesn’t have any beaches.”
“Oh. Right.”
“There’s Biloxi,” Emily said, not so easily deterred. She
was clearly warming up to the idea. “It’s only an hour and a
half from here.”
“Only.”