Golden Boy scoots in next to me on the booth side of our table at the Slanted Door. Nothing says new romance to a packed house more than two people who can’t even stand to be separated by a two-top. I tuck myself tight up under his arm. Perfect spot ’cause when I turn to talk to him my nose catches the soapy aroma of his neck. Divine. Ty is twirling his index finger in the strap of my dress. Every time his finger brushes my shoulder my lady parts remind me that, at forty, they are in the best shape of their lives.
“I got you something for your first day back.” Ty reaches under the table and I hear a rustling of plastic.
“Better not be a mug. News flash, people who work in schools hate mugs, particularly ones with trite sayings. And theme jewelry. We also hate theme jewelry. I hope to God you didn’t get me pumpkin earrings or a Flag Day scarf.”
“Oh I got you something far better. Something that’s a little bit for you and a little bit for me, so maybe I should call it awepresent.” Lord, men are so predictable. I put my hand out ready to see what Ty’s fantasy lingerie looks like. Is he a traditional black satin man or more of a modern see-through red silk kind of guy? Is it long and flowy or does it play peek-a-boo with my goodies? Instead, he hands me a shoe box with STELLA MCCARTNEY in big black block letters across the top. Damn, I think I just fell a little bit in love.
“Should I open it now?” I ask, petting the box, hardly able to contain my crazy couture excitement. I pop the top off before Golden Boy is able to answer.
There, in mint condition, are a pair of brand-new, never-been-worn, not-from-eBay pair of Stella McCartney Eclypse turquoise lace-up running sneakers, and a matching tank top and running tights.
“I thought you might be willing to go running with me if you had the right outfit to wear. Do you like it?”
“It’s perfect,” I gush, caressing the gorgeous workmanship of the shoes. I slip off my purple suede heels, out for their third date ever, and tie up my new kicks. “Just beware, my Fairchild track record still stands for a reason. I’m fast. So fast I might leave you in the dust.”
“Don’t you worry, Josie Bordelon, I plan on keeping pace.”
“I sure hope you do, Golden Boy.”
