The Project

"Ok, just checking," he said with an embarrassed smile. "Are you ready to go? Or would you rather stay and play with Sasha?"

She smiled at the cat on her lap but pushed her off gently. "Sasha is cute, but I think I'd rather go with you."

Julia drove them to the event center in Upper Hutt where the antique show was being held. What happened last night was like an elephant sitting in the car with them, but Steven didn't bring it up and she wasn't going to either.

The parking lot was crowded. Most of the other people there were at least twenty years older than her and Steven but she didn't care. They paid the entry fee and wandered around checking out the vendors.

There were a few food stalls as well and Steven bought a bag of candied nuts to share (guaranteed non-antique). It felt completely natural so Julia linked her arm with Steven's as they walked. She discovered he wasn't really that knowledgeable about antiques, but seemed interested in learning more. She pointed out some of the periods and styles she recognized.

"Hey, that looks pretty cool," he said, pointing at a console table. Julia stopped and admired the marble-topped piece. It had ornately carved serpentine legs. "It's beautiful," she agreed. She checked the price tag and found it was surprisingly affordable as well. Apparently the marble top wasn't original but she didn't care. "I want it," she declared enthusiastically.

"You're going to buy it?" Steven asked, slightly disappointed.

"Oh, were you thinking of buying it yourself?" Julia asked in surprise. "Aren't you saving for your trip?"

"Well, yes," he admitted sheepishly. "But this wouldn't set me back too far."

"How about we toss a coin for it," Julia suggested diplomatically. But Steven shook his head. "No, I want you to have it," he insisted.

"Are you sure?" she checked. He nodded vigorously. "Alright but you can come and see it in my house any time you like, ok?"

He grinned at the idea of visitation rights for a piece of furniture. Julia tracked down the vendor and put down a deposit to secure the piece. Then they carried on walking. "We should find something for you now," she suggested. "Are you looking for anything in particular?"

Steven shrugged. "I have space for a coffee table or a side table but I don't have anything particular in mind, no."