Clara turned slightly as she caught movement from the corner of her eye. A group of boutique staff walked swiftly past her, arms laden with an armory of luxurious gowns in protective garment bags, shoes boxed in sleek designer packaging, and a velvet tray displaying glittering jewelry. The collection wasn't just exquisite—it was exclusive, the kind reserved for private showcases or red-carpet clients.
Her eyes narrowed.
One piece, in particular, caught her attention: an emerald necklace resting in the center of the tray like a crown jewel. The stones were deep green, cut in perfect symmetry, set in a delicate vine of platinum. It would match her gown perfectly—a strapless emerald silk creation fitted to her curves and already causing Adrian to take endless photos for her social feed.
Clara's heels clicked across the marble floor as she approached the closest attendant.
"Excuse me," she said, voice calm but authoritative. "That necklace—bring it here. I want to see it up close."
