JULIAN

The associate brought out various items, casual jackets, designer jeans, shirts that weren't white or blue. "Try this," Blake insisted, handing me a dark green henley.

"I don't wear green," I said.

"You do now," Blake replied. "Trust me."

I tried it on to humor him but the associate nodded approvingly. "It works," she said. "Brings out your eyes."

"See?" Blake said triumphantly. "Listen to the professional."

By the time we left, Blake had convinced me to buy three new shirts, two pairs of jeans, and a leather jacket I would probably never wear.

"This is ridiculous," I said, carrying multiple bags.

"This is called having a personality," Blake...