Cute sandals acquired, Bernie knows Lil's pedicurist Tamara

They started out at the place Bernie usually bought her sandals, and Lil was surprised that among the heavy leather, chunky cork, and thick rubber sandals, there was a really cute and comfy pair in Lil's size.

"I'll wear them," Lil told the clerk. "Put my sneakers in the box."

Lil was so delighted that she took Bernie's hand and walked the length of the mall hand in hand, swinging her arms and walking quickly until they emerged into the bright heat of the summer day and turned the corner toward their next stop.

Bernie caught some of Lil's good humor and chuckled along as Lil talked about everything but her breakup, everyone but her family, but mostly how happy she was with her new sandals. "THESE aren't going to break a strap if I look at them cross-eyed. And they're so cute, I could just kiss you!" Lil said.

Bernie suddenly had a faceful of Lillian Menard attached at the lips, with a peal of laughter following the kiss.

"I love my new sandals, thank you for helping me find them!" Lil exclaimed. She gave Bernie a hug and another kiss, then led the way in. "They said it was a new person but she's really good, Peggy Wise said so." Lil stepped up to the front counter. "Lillian Menard and guest for three o'clock?" she said.

The person looked up to see Lil and Bernie hand in hand.

Bernie stared. Was that... "Tamara?"

"Naomi?" She blinked. "You're looking... happy. Is this your new girlfriend?"