“Cindy, if you like it that much, I can buy you your own set,” I said politely, trying to keep things civil. “But this one… it’s a gift from David, so I can’t really—”
Before I could finish, she slipped the bottle into her bag, like it was no big deal.
I tried to give her the benefit of the doubt. Maybe I’d misunderstood. But then she caught me watching her and immediately got defensive.
“Oh, come on, Elaine! Don’t get the wrong idea,” she said, her eyes darting around. “I just thought the scent was nice and wanted to show it to my daughter. She can buy one for me later. I wasn’t planning to take yours!”
I forced a tight smile, trying to ease the tension. “I understand, Cindy. Feel free to look around. If there’s anything else you like, just let me know.”
Her expression darkened. “What’s that supposed to mean? Are you being sarcastic? I told you—I was just looking. Don’t be so stingy. It’s just this perfume I like. Hand it over.”
“But—” I tried to explain.
“No buts!” she snapped. “You said David bought it for you. That means I want this one!”
Right then, David walked in, holding a plucked chicken.
“What’s going on here?” he asked, looking between us.