It was the first time Alicia realized that, for some people, luxury boutiques didn't even need to be browsed. All she had to do was sit comfortably, and the staff would bring over exclusive, limited-edition items—pieces not even displayed in the store—for her to choose from.
Her feelings were a tangled mix of surprise and discomfort as she glanced up at the wall, where those so-called "invitation only" handbags were displayed. The kind people whispered about—bags you couldn't even buy unless you'd already spent millions in the store.
She remembered the last time she'd come here: the sales associates hadn't even bothered to greet her.
Now? They practically crouched at her feet, introducing products and fussing over her every need.
"Ma'am, you look familiar. Have you been here before?" The saleswoman smiled, trying to make conversation.
Alicia didn't respond.
The associate quickly changed the subject. "Let me show you this new arrival."
Alicia turned to Tyrone. "Maybe we shouldn't buy anything. I really don't need any of this."
Given Alicia's usual spending habits and lifestyle, she truly saw no point in owning these things.
A purse that cost tens, even hundreds of thousands… In her hands, it felt utterly unnecessary.
"At least for now," she thought, "it means nothing."
"That's fine. Let's go somewhere else," Tyrone said, respecting her wishes without the slightest hint of pressure. He casually selected a few handbags and pieces of jewelry that caught his eye—items he thought would suit Alicia—and handed them off to the assistant to settle with the store.
Alicia didn't protest further; Tyrone's taste was impeccable, and everything he chose seemed perfect for her.
The sales staff practically rolled out the red carpet as she left, their attitudes shifting faster than a roller coaster.
Alicia, distracted, followed Tyrone out of the shop, still wondering what luxury store he'd take her to next.
"Let's go to Tranquilview Avenue," Tyrone said lightly as soon as they got in the car.
Alicia stared at him, surprised. "Tranquilview Avenue? Isn't that… the college town's food street?"
"I brought you out to pick a wedding gift. Shouldn't you get me something too?" Tyrone raised an eyebrow, teasing.
It took a beat for Alicia to catch on. Of course—she should give him something as well. "Right! But… what should I get you?"
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