Chapter 51

KIMBERLY’S POV The boutique was teeming with activity: people just continuously streamed up and down the rows, running their hands over the sumptuous fabrics and accessories laid out with precision. A hum of excitement filled the air, punctuated periodically by the soft chime of the register and the murmur of shoppers. I hardly had time to breathe. Aria Ravenwood stood near the door, arms crossed over her chest, waiting for me to acknowledge her. She'd blown in a quarter of an hour earlier, a whirlwind that demanded attention. I didn't have time for her now. I readjusted the earpiece I wore to talk with my staff and gave her a cursory glance. A clipped politeness, I said, "If you want to talk, wait in the lounge." She raised an eyebrow but grinned, like my dismissal had been the funniest thing. "Fine," she said, striding back toward the private lounge at the back of the store. I heaved a sigh, turning back to work. My gaze fell on customers-the only ones keeping this place afloat: Gold