Loveology

CHAPTER 33
"Emmett," you call out as you approach his side. He looks up from the bookshelf and gives you a tight smile. "I didn't expect to see you here."

"I had some errands to run, but I'm nearly finished now," he explains curtly.

"Oh, I'd hoped you'd be willing to spend the day helping me with my shopping," you confess imploringly. "I'd love to have some company," you add when Emmett still seems reluctant.

"Very well." Emmett sighs. "But I'd like to be back to the castle before lunch."

"Of course." You thread your arm with his and lead him out of the bookstore.

***

It's nearly noon by the time you and Emmett have finished shopping. You step out of a clothing store, arm in arm. The only thing you've ordered is a new dress for yourself that should arrive at the castle before the end of the day, but you and Emmett have enjoyed yourselves browsing. His initial reluctance wore away quickly, leaving you with an enjoyable companion.

"Shall we return to the castle, Emmett?" you say. "It is approaching lunchtime."

"Is it?" Emmett checks his pocket watch. "Oh my, so it is. Yes, we ought to be heading back."

"Wait," you say as you stop in front of the window to a jewelry shop. The glimmer of the gems caught your eye immediately, but as you step closer, a emerald necklace grabs your attention. It's a simple design with a teardrop pendant on the end, but it's surprisingly beautiful.

"Did you want to go inside?" Emmett asks. You sigh wistfully as you admire the necklace.

"No, that's alright," you say. "I just want to look."

"Is that emerald necklace the one you're so drawn to?" You nod. "Hm." You turn to Emmett, but his attention is on the necklace now, too. "Excuse me a moment, Kathleen."

"Emmett-" You put out a hand to stop him, but he steps inside the store before you can say anything. You watch from the window as he approaches the attendant. He comes forward, removing the necklace from the window and handing it over to Emmett, who pays the man what must be an exorbitant amount of money.

"Emmett, you didn't have to do that," you protest as soon as Emmett steps outside. He raises a hand to silence you and hands you the small wooden box with the necklace nestled safely inside. Y

"Thank you, Emmett," you say softly, accepting his actions, as you accept the box. Emmett takes the opportunity to lean forward and kiss your cheek. You blush but allow it all the same.

"Now," Emmett says he pulls away. "What are we to have for lunch, milady?"

You have 1 choice: