“The rules have now changed, haven’t they? We can no longer purchase gyms or gift all the staff members with gift cards before Yom Tov”

IT

had been many years since Libby noticed the floors at Bergdorf’s. Who had the headspace for floors? There were ensembles to be created, accessories to be purchased.

She’d taken a lot for granted, she realized now. Not because she’d been spoiled or not present, but mainly because she’d never imagined that she’d be losing everything one day, so there was never the need to savor the small things.

Yet here she was, with her standing beginning-of-the-season shopping spree, and all she could do was loiter at the entrance of the store and stare at the floors.

They were a gorgeous patterned tile, and they were so calming, she could look at them all day.

Libby, you’re losing it, girl.  Mentally shaking herself, she straightened her shoulders and glided into the store, chin lifted gracefully.

Do not stand and stare at the floors like a lunatic, she coached herself. Go to the showroom, look at the selection, and make some choices. And refrain from sharing with everyone who sees you that this will probably be your last shopping spree here.

This outing had been prescheduled, and she didn’t see any reason to cancel it until the news broke that the Frankel Juniors were Brexiting.

Let her have this last shopping hurrah.