The pair turned fully, both gasping in realization of who stood before them.

David’s eyes widened when he saw her. “Calista?” he stammered, disbelief coloring his tone. “You own this place?”

Calista crossed her arms, her irritation mounting. “Yes, David. I do. Now, care to explain why you’re disrupting my shop?”

Lila turned to her, surprise flickering across her face before she composed herself. “Calista,” she said smoothly. “I had no idea this was your establishment.”

“Clearly,” Calista muttered, though she forced a smile. “It’s been a while, Lila.”

Lila nodded, a flicker of restraint in her gaze. “When did you return? Did you come alone?”

David, meanwhile, looked oddly...