Skylar turned in the narrow aisle and smiled. The afternoon sun slanted through the storefront windows, illuminating particles of dust dancing above rows of ancient heirlooms.
“I’m just browsing,” she said, her voice soft against the gentle creak of oak floorboards. “This place is absolutely magical. I’ve always had a weakness for antiques.”
The woman’s eyes twinkled as she extended her hand. “I’m Savannah Collins, everyone calls me Vanna. I own this treasure trove.” She smiled. Skylar noticed the polished wood of the counter, the sweet scent of old books mingling with rose-scented polish. Vanna’s handshake was firm, and Skylar caught sight of a huge diamond solitaire flashing on her left ring finger.
“Skylar McCoy. Lovely to meet you, Vanna.”
“Likewise. If you need anything, just flag down either me or Maggie.” Vanna nodded toward a narrow archway curtained in burgundy velvet. “Maggie’s helping that gentleman over there with the pocket watches, but one of us will be with you in a few moments.”
“Perfect,” Skylar said, already glancing at a glass case filled with tarnished silver spoons and jeweled brooches. “I’ll wander around and see what speaks to me.”
Vanna gave her an appreciative nod and glided back toward the woman she’d been waiting on, as the brass bell chimed again when another customer stepped inside.
Skylar pushed through the velvet curtain into the back room, and her breath caught. Rows of intricately detailed dollhousesstood on waist-high shelves; one modeled after a Tudor manor with leaded glass windows, another a gingerbread-shingled cottage with ivy climbing its painted walls. The hush of the room, broken only by her own footsteps on the Persian rug, felt sacred. She reached out, brushing a fingertip across the red thatch of one roof, cold and slightly rough beneath her skin.
“They’re beautiful, aren’t they?” The voice came from behind her. A pretty woman with brown hair pulled into a ponytail and dark eyes that sparkled with delight stepped forward. She wore a forest-green blouse and faded jeans.
“They are.” Skylar breathed. She ran her palm over the miniature brick chimney. “They look so real. I always wanted one, but I was such a tomboy I knew I’d never fool with it.” She chuckled. “I’d rather be out riding horses.”
“I can understand that.” The woman offered her hand. “I’m Maggie Lancaster.”
“Skylar McCoy.” They shook hands, Maggie’s grip warm and welcoming.
“Skylar McCoy, the author?” Maggie’s eyes widened in genuine surprise.
Skylar smiled, a faint blush rising to her cheeks. “Yes. Are you familiar with my books?”
“I have every single one in eBook and print,” Maggie said. “If I’d known you were coming in, I would’ve brought a book for you to sign.” She laughed, brushing a stray wisp of hair behind her ear. “Like I’d know you were coming in.”
Skylar laughed alongside her. “Well, just bring one next time. If I’m back in town, I’ll stop by.”
“Are you here on vacation?” Maggie leaned forward, genuine curiosity brightening her face.
“No, I bought a home here recently.” Skylar’s voice warmed. “My best friend, Ryan, moved here from California and convinced me to give it a try.”
“That’s wonderful!” Maggie beamed. “Then I will definitely get that book in here. I just have to decide which one.” She tapped her lip playfully. “I love them all.”
“I really appreciate that, Maggie,” Skylar said softly.
Maggie waved a hand at the dollhouses. “So, maybe you should pick out one today.”
“I’ll think about it. I have the perfect spot in my home.”
“Give it some thought. Whenever Vanna sells one, she just orders another, unless it’s a special edition. You can always have your dream dollhouse.”
“Okay. I’m sure I’ll be back. Is there a shop around here where I can buy a dress?”
Maggie tilted her head, a mischievous smile curling her lips. “Sexy?”
Skylar grinned and nodded. “Yes. I have a first date with a hot cowboy, and I want to make him speechless. I thought about a dress I have at home, but I want something new and more… captivating.”
Maggie’s eyes danced. “When you exit our door, head back toward the diner. At the corner, on the opposite side, you’ll see a boutique called Paige’s. That place has everything to make a woman feel irresistible, from lacy lingerie to the sexiest dresses and shoes you’ve ever laid eyes on.”
“I’m not worried about what’s under the clothes… yet. It’s our first date.”
“Girl, when it’s right, it’s right.” Maggie lowered her voice conspiratorially. “Do you mind if I ask who the cowboy is?”
“Rawley Bowman,” Skylar replied, a happy flutter in her chest.
