Dmitry's Closet by Latrivia S. Nelson Page B

against the door flabbergasted. Just when she suspected that he would strike like a villain, he behaved like a gentleman.
         When Dmitry heard the door, he smiled and shook his head. "Royal is virgin," he sang aloud, smiling to himself, happy that he had discovered such a treasure.
     

Chapter 5
         The grand opening of the Dmitry's Closet was an undeniable success. Nearly two hundred of Memphis' affluent women came to the opening. The event was complete with the cutting of a splendid red ribbon, a few words from the area councilman and tons of champagne, strawberries, great cheeses and caviar beluga for the guests. And best of all despite the warnings from the local meteorologist, it did not rain giving everyone a clear, not-so-hot August day.
         Royal had used all of her textbook skills to attract the local newspapers and reporters by giving them gift bags full of free but expensive gifts all hand picked by her and her new staff of two. Dmitry was also extremely impressed with the entire event, receiving constant praise from his new patrons, who not only loved the selection but the presentation.
         By seven o'clock when the doors closed, they had made thousands of dollars and a big splash with the new boutique. After counting down the drawer and giving the money to Anatoly as previously discussed, Royal and her team cleaned up the boutique and prepared to head over to the Mother Russia restaurant, where Dmitry had arranged for a celebratory dinner.
         It had been an excruciating month for Royal, full of last-minute details to work through, promotions to pull together and fine clothing to inventory, but things had worked out better than her wildest dreams. She was a success. Her hard work had paid off literally. And most of all Dmitry was happy with her.
         "The limo is here to pick us up, Royal," her assistant, Renée said, grabbing her purse. "I can't believe he is sending over a freaking limo!"
         "Yeah, that's pretty sweet," Royal said hurrying.
         Renée was a young, energetic neo soul sister from Atlanta, who rocked a large, very pro-black afro and large gold hoop earrings. She was a dark, short, petite woman with tons of retail experience and new to the city. Royal hired her on the spot during their interview, feeling a strangely familiar kinship with the woman. Her other assistant Cory was young man who had come highly recommended by the councilman, Mr. Avers, who had also spoken at their grand opening.
         Cory was a clean cut, attractive young white man with a very small, but muscular frame. Dmitry had questioned her choice for him, but she knew that it was only because he was a man. Cory was extremely professional and kind and his ultimate goal was to one day own his own shop. She thought his ambitions to be admirable and decided after several days and a few conversations with Dmitry to hire him as well.
         The three of them loaded into the limo quickly and were escorted a few streets over to the restaurant, where a small group of Dmitry's friends and colleagues waited. When they arrived at the restaurant, a traditional Russian band was playing and the entire place was covered in festive crimson decorations. There were tons of expensive wine, fine Russian vodka, traditional Russian food and of course, caviar.
         Once, Royal had inquired why caviar was a staple in Dmitry's life. He explained that he was part-owner of a caviar company near the Caspian Sea.
         Naturally, she said shaking her head when he had informed her of yet another business he owned.
         "Ah, there is my little shop girl," Dmitry said, picking Royal up and whirling her around.
         His festive spirit made Royal light up. She hugged him as tightly as she could, relishing in the moment.
         "Wasn't today, great? I... I couldn't believe it. So many people came to the opening," Royal said as Dmitry sat her down. There eyes were glued to each other. His