Vivienne's POV

I took a breath, straightened my top, and forced my feet to move toward Alex, as Manfred stepped away to get on his daily business.

"Good morning." I said, my voice coming out softer than I intended.

He looked up, blinked once, and then actually smiled.

"Morning." He said simply, and then gestured for me to come closer. "Come help me choose. I'm sure you have a good taste."

"Choose?" I blinked.

"Paint colors." He said as he turned the ...