We enter the mall and a few people stare. Masen commands attention wherever he goes, but seeing him walking through a mall seems so surreal. It’s like watching a tiger prowl through the city. He doesn’t belong there, but it’s no less beautiful to see.

I quite enjoy Masen’s attentive behavior. He steals kisses often and only let’s go of me when I try something on. Even then, he stands within touching range the entire time. Never once does he complain that I’ve dragged him through half the stores. I also love watching his reaction to what I try on. Indulgent smiles and heated stares tell me exactly what he’s thinking. I pick up a few stray thoughts here and there. He’s perfectly content, not faking that he’s happy to be here with me.

The last store I visit is a lingerie shop. I know being a size fourteen I won’t have much luck finding panties let alone bras in my size, but I was hoping to get a few until my online purchases arrive. The store attendants watch Masen as he enters with me. They don’t notice or care about the hand he has on my lower back grazing my bottom. I’m assessed and dismissed as a threat almost immediately.

A model thin brunette with blonde highlights sashays over. The movement is practiced, and I’m sure very effective. I wonder how many men have come here looking to buy something for someone special and have left with this shark instead. A small snarl leaves my lips before she reaches us.

She walks directly to Masen and looks up at him through her long fake lashes and purrs. “Mr. Black, how can I help you?”

Instantly, my back stiffens. She knows him? Having felt my reaction, Masen pulls me in closer and replies, “Whatever she needs.”

The woman, whose name tag reads Bambi, looks over to me like she’s seeing me for the first time. She tsks then leans down to me. “I’m not sure we’ll have anything in your... size,” she mock whispers while giving me a fake sad smile. “There’s a plus-size clothing store a few shops down. Mandy would be happy to show you where while I help Mr. Black with any of his other needs.” She motions for a woman who looks eerily similar to Bambi, but her hair is a bit lighter to come over.

Masen’s hand fists the fabric of my shirt at my back. “Are you fucking kidding me!” He explodes. “There is nothing in this piece of shit store good enough for her anyway.” He leans down closer to her shocked face. “DO NOT act like you know me. I have never had the displeasure of meeting you before, for which I’m grateful.” He sneers, his eyes are black with outrage as he stares her down. His shouting has drawn attention from everyone in the store and a few that pass by outside.

“Hey, Big Guy,” I say affectionately as I bring my palm up to his face, turning him to look at me. His eyes soften immediately as he searches my face. “I knew it was a long shot. I don’t care.” I’m much more relaxed knowing she doesn’t know Masen, just of him. He reaches down with both hands and grabs my butt and lifts me up. I wrap my legs around him as he kisses my head tenderly.