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“I love it and most of the time I need it!”

“I’m glad, Doc. I do have one other place I need to show you,” CeCe said with a twinkle in her eyes.

“Oh?”

“Yeah, we can pick you up another glass on the way. You’ll need it.” CeCe winked.

CeCe led them back inside the salon and waved to a couple of clients as they walked through the threshold to Cat’s bookstore.

“I love the name!” Alexis exclaimed. “If only I had time to read anything other than medical journals.”

CeCe handed Alexis another glass of champagne as she waved to her sister.

“Are you going to drive me home?” Alexis asked as she took the drink from CeCe.

“Nah, I’m going to insist you hang around with me until you can drive yourself.” CeCe grinned.

“Hey,” Cat said, walking over to them.

“Hi, sis. I’d like you to meet…probably my favorite client.” CeCe smiled at Alexis. “This is Doctor Alexis Reed.”

“Oh, CeCe,” Alexis scoffed. “It’s nice to meet you,” she said, holding out her hand to Cat, who took it and smiled.

“Listen Doc, you’ve worked hard and earned your title. Everybody would be calling me doctor if I’d gone to school that long and accomplished the things you have. You’re a big deal,” CeCe said.

Alexis shook her head and smirked, but CeCe could see her praise was appreciated.

“This is Cat, my little sister,” CeCe said, finishing the introduction.

“Hi, Alexis. It’s nice to meet you,” Cat said. “I’ve heard CeCe mention you.”

“Uh oh. Am I one of her problem clients?” Alexis asked.

“Not at all. She’s always happy after your appointments,” Cat explained.

CeCe looked over at Alexis and shrugged. “What can I say, I’m glad I’m your stylist.”

Alexis smiled at CeCe and sipped her champagne.

“I gave Alexis a tour of the salon, but I saved the best for last. Do you mind?” CeCe asked, nodding towards the back of the store.

2

“It’s all yours.” Cat winked. “Mom has already been by so you don’t have to worry about her seeing you come and go.”

“Thanks for the warning. I haven’t seen her yet.”

Amused, Alexis gave CeCe a look then looked back at Cat. “It was nice to meet you.”

“Thank you for coming out today. It means a lot to CeCe.” Cat nodded then walked over to welcome a group of people entering the store.

“It does mean a lot to me, Alexis. I know how busy you are and I appreciate you taking the time.”

“I’m happy to be here. Are you dodging your mom?”

“No. We just haven’t told her about this particular room in Cat’s bookstore.”

They walked down a hall similar to the one in CeCe’s salon. Once they passed the restrooms, CeCe stopped at a closed door. Before she opened it she turned to Alexis. “This particular room is only for special clients who we know can practice discretion.”