While Ruby dealt with Davey's falsies, Beth had depilated his legs then creamed and soothed them and painted his toenails. Stockings attached to garters and then the blue leather mini went on, fastened with a concealed zipper in the back.

Ruby and Beth surveyed their work. "Mm, hmm?" asked Ruby.

"Mmm," agreed Beth.

"What?" Davey wanted to know. He blinked, eye makeup made his lids feel heavy.

"You needs jewelry, and a bag," said Ruby.

"If your date doesn't offer jewelry, marriage or bearer bonds, check his pulse," said Beth.

The women laughed. Davey, too, though he wasn't sure why.