With a deliberate, respectful motion, he gave Katie a slight bow silent acknowledgment wrapped in quiet deference. Without another word, he turned and glided toward the clothing racks, sunlight pouring through the full-height glass walls and scattering golden reflections across the polished surfaces in his wake, leaving Cleopatra suspended in a delicate space between watching and waiting. 

Then, as if the tension finally snapped, Katie and Cleopatra could no longer contain it. 

Laughter burst from them at the same moment, bright and unrestrained, echoing against the walls like a sudden, joyful melody. 

“Katie, he was completely lost!” Cleopatra gasped between laughter, pressing a hand to her mouth as her eyes...