I imagine he’s still at practice, and I toss the phone into my shoulder bag. The car stops on Canal Street, and I walk into the Quarter on Royal Street. Most people head immediatelyto Bourbon, but I’ve got something else in mind for today.
It’s a block in the direction of the river, and it’s where all of the galleries and jewelry stores and antique stores are located.
Royal is the same length as Bourbon, but a completely different vibe. It’s quieter. The tourists are dressed a little nicer, a little more like they’re having an elegant shopping day as opposed to a raucous day-into-night out on the town.
Stepping into an antiques store I’ve heard a lot about, I call Knox’s apartment to mind. I think about what I know he needs as well as what I know will make it feel homier.
A stained-glass Tiffany lamp is on a dresser. It’s actually black and gold with the leaded trim curling around the edges into small, interlocking fleur de lis. Lifting my phone, I take a quick picture and text it to him.
Melody
I think this would be a nice addition to your living room.
I hit send and continue down the row to see what else is hiding in this store. A heavy silver picture frame with an alligator along the bottom is a fun addition. Another frame with a heart and the wordfamilyon the side also goes into my basket.
He can order prints from his camera roll online, and the frames will be all ready and waiting to hold them. I put the two frames together and take another picture, sending it with a text.
Melody
Nothing says home like pictures of your loved ones.
Walking along, I stumble across a print of Lafitte’s blacksmith shop at night. It’s distorted in an interesting way, with a streetlamp in the foreground and shining, wet pavements. Figures that appear almost ghostly are in the shadows, and a cup of voodoo daiquiri, or purple drink, sits on a window ledge.
I take a photo of it as well. He told me his mother is from New Orleans, and she likes to make purple drink for special occasions.
I’m at the door when my phone screen lights up with a text.
K-Brad
Shopping without me? I thought we had a date.
Melody
I had some free time, so I decided to scout the area.
K-Brad
I like what you’ve found. Get them and take them back to my place. I’ll meet you there after practice.
My chest tightens, and I look around, unsure. I’m happy to get the items for him, but meeting him after practice feels dangerous. I can’t keep going down this path with him or I’ll lose all objectivity. Then what?
Another text vibrates my phone.
K-Brad
I know, you’re not my personal shopper.
I huff a laugh, composing a quick reply.
Melody
It’s not that. I just…
What?What are you doing, Melody? I don’t have to see Lindsey to feel her judging me.
K-Brad
Don’t want to get stuck with the bill? Here’s my credit card info. Charge it and show me tonight. You’re the expert, right?