Mary reached up and touched the spiked collar that she had put on, then looked at the shopkeeper. "I don't think it's my thing. It's more like something one of those freaky gothic people would wear."
"Perhaps," the shopkeeper said. "But I think it looks great on you."
Mary looked like she was about to take it off, but the man stopped her. She gave him a questioning look.
"Keep it."
"Excuse me?"
"This shop is new and I need some promotion. Show the collar to people you know. Tell them about my store."
"No, I couldn't."
"It's okay." He smiled.
"Well, I suppose so."
"Then it's settled."
Moments later, Mary and Brandon left the store.
"Where did you get that, Mom?" Brandon asked, pointing towards the spiked collar around her neck.
"Oh, the shopkeeper gave it to me for free. Do you like it?"
"Actually, it looks kind of freaky on you."
