When Joanne brought her selections to the counter and heard the total, she blinked. "That's all?"
The quality was exceptional—top-notch stitching, premium fabric. She'd tried on designer clothes before, some costing ten times as much and not even fitting right. But here, every piece was flawless. And the price? Barely a tenth of the brands that shouted their names in gold foil and neon.
Cynthia explained gently, "I price things so I make a living, not a fortune. I've had enough of overpriced fashion. Why shouldn't beautiful clothes be fairly priced?"
Joanne was floored. Even her offer of a tip was declined—Cynthia simply smiled and shook her head. "We don't really do tipping here. Besides, it was lovely talking with you."
As Joanne stepped out, bags in hand, she felt oddly guilty—as if she'd walked away with more than she paid for. Not just the clothes, but the kindness, the honesty, the quiet magic of that little shop.
