Heart of Ashes

To Die For

Smiling up at the dark-skinned person I was kneeling before, I took the hand they held out and stood up, glancing down to take in the way the fabric seemed to almost cling to their hips and thighs before falling smoothly the rest of the way down their legs. Glancing back up with an even bigger smile, I gave them a quick hug that was only allowed due to the amount of time I had known them. It had taken several weeks just to be able to get closer than arm's length outside of when I was actively working on pinning or adjusting an item and so had no choice in getting closer.

"It's absolutely unfair how you can look so good in both skirts and slacks, Rae. Ahh, but at least I get to be the one to make them for you," I said, grinning at the tall form beside me as they slid the recently finished dress shirt over their long arms.

"Sweetie, I couldn't imagine finding anyone else with your eye for fashion. Not to mention your ability to put up with me, what with all that I put you through," Rae spoke with a grin, their ebony eyes shining with mischief.

"Well, it isn't like I can't just jab you with a needle if you get too outrageous to handle," I said with a laugh. "Besides, you've only managed to overstep that boundary once and I don't think it was on purpose. You just didn't know where I'd drawn my lines yet."

Stepping back, I took in the effect of the half-finished black slacks and the jewel green button up shirt, just needing the final stitching for the adjusted seams I had just pinned on the legs. The new seams would accent how long their legs were while showcasing their slim waist, while the bright jewel tone shirt flowed smoothly against their chestnut skin, clinging just a bit to their slim, muscular chest and arms without constricting their movement.

"Rae, if you ever find the right person for you, promise me you'll wear this on one of the dates! I swear you look good enough I almost want to ask you out myself, if not for the fact I know you would be far too much a handful for me to keep up with you even if I did have the time!" Winking at the sputtering figure, I turned and walked towards the doorway. "Leave the slacks in the usual spot when you are done changing. I'll finish the seams tonight and have it ready by the time you return this weekend. Payment as per usual?"

I laughed as I listened to them mumble, closing the door quietly behind me.

"Payment as per usual, yes, of course! And you know you love me, (y/n)! Someday, you'll admit it! Maybe if you're lucky, I'll let you hold my hand for a bit!" If not for the peals of laughter that followed, I might have thought there was a chance Rae might be serious for a moment. As if!

Besides, it wasn't like I had the time or energy to keep up with them and their frequent nature hikes! I still had to get a job, what with rent coming up soon and my bank account couldn't keep paying bills forever. Especially after the amount I spent at the auction, leaving me feeling guilty for doing so, but the fabrics had been so beautiful!

"Sure, Rae! As if I have time for things like dates these days, let alone holding hands, no matter how good looking the person is! Do you think these side jobs are gonna pay my rent? I would need a lot more people asking for my crafts if that was going to happen! Oh! And the shirt you asked me to make is ready! It's in the box next to the closet! I hope your friend appreciates the amount of cash you're spending on them for that particular fabric!"

"Oh, he will, sweetie! He will! He's such a fashion junkie, I just know he'll love it! You have a real eye for style! Besides, that fabric you found is so soft, it's just to die for!"

~~~~~~~~

He scowled as he poked at the shiny black paper covering the large box. He knew what was inside. The only reason he hadn't burned the thing already was the fact that he was being watched. Even as he poked at the mass of curls forming the bow atop the box, he could feel those familiar black eyes following his every movement.