**Chapter 301**
**AUTHOR’S POV**
Amidst the glimmering treasures of the jewelry store, Talia’s keen eyes caught a glimpse of Alina’s wandering thoughts before her friend even realized she had drifted off into a daydream again.
The store was a dazzling spectacle, filled with glass cases that sparkled with the brilliance of diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires. Light danced off every surface, creating a celestial display that could have mesmerized anyone. Yet, despite the beauty surrounding them, Alina’s expression was distant, her brow furrowed with an unshakeable worry that seemed to weigh heavily on her.
With a gentle nudge of her elbow, Talia broke through Alina’s reverie. “Alina, come on, just focus,” she urged, her voice a soothing yet firm whisper. “We only have tomorrow to get through. After that, we can shift our attention to tracking down that bastard—whoever he is and wherever he may be hiding. I promise you, we will get him. But for now, you need to clear your mind of this.” She gestured dramatically at the dazzling displays of jewelry. “I mean, look at this place! We’re surrounded by diamonds and other precious gems, and yet you’re lost in thought. How is that even possible? Is the sparkle not enough to catch your fancy, Dahlia Evergreen?”
Alina rolled her eyes, though a reluctant smile began to form on her lips. “You’re right, you’re right… let’s just do this,” she replied, her voice barely above a whisper yet laced with determination.
“Finally! Thank you,” Talia exclaimed, relief flooding through her as she seized Alina’s hand and pulled her toward a rotating display adorned with necklaces that dripped with crystals, catching the light in a mesmerizing way.
As they wandered from case to case, they took their time, checking, picking, and comparing the various pieces laid out before them. Alina made a concerted effort to be present in the moment. She lifted delicate earrings, let smooth bracelets slide over her fingers, and held pendants against her throat, even managing to hum in approval a couple of times.
But despite her best efforts, her thoughts kept drifting back to Damien—the sudden chill in his demeanor, the inexplicable distance that had grown between them, and the gnawing dread that twisted in her stomach like a coiled spring.
Still, she pressed on, determined to push through the motions of their outing.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity of browsing, they approached the counter to finalize their selections. The cashier, a young woman who had been observing them with a polite smile from a distance, stood up straighter as they approached, her demeanor shifting to one of professionalism.
“Are you paying with cash or card?” she inquired, her tone friendly.


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