The day had started like any other. Maya was at her boutique early, arranging fabrics, checking sketches, and preparing for her client’s fitting. Her studio had finally begun to attract more attention. After the birthday banquet, word about the gown Elias’s grandmother wore had spread, and more customers were starting to reach out to Maya for custom designs.

She stood by the window, straightening a mannequin’s gown, when the bell above the door rang softly.

A woman in her fifties stepped in, dressed in a navy-blue suit and carrying a folder under her arm. Her expression was calm and composed, but her eyes sparkled with curiosity.

“Hello,” Maya greeted warmly....