Chapter 20
Ellie noticed the clerk’s awkward look, which only made her cheeks flush. She shifted her gaze to Alex, who was completely absorbed in the necklace, oblivious to her discomfort. She felt the urge to just turn around and leave.
“Ellie, put this on so I can see how it looks,” Alex said, gesturing for her to come closer.
“I’d rather let the staff show this to you. It’s not really my style,” she protested.
With a firm grip on her shoulder, Alex pulled her closer. “What did you think I brought you here for?”
Before she could respond, the cold metal of the necklace touched her skin, making her tense up. Alex’s warm breath tickled her ear, and the contrast of his warmth with the cool necklace was overwhelming.
She knew the necklace wasn’t for her, but her palms started to sweat, and she couldn’t bring herself to look in the mirror. “Wow, I’m so jealous of that girl. Her boyfriend is so hot,” one girl gushed.
“Her necklace is from Vogue Kaleidoscope’s latest collection—a custom pink diamond, and it’s worth millions,” another chimed in.
“Being pretty really pays off. Look at how he’s putting that necklace on her like she’s the only one in the room,” someone else added.
Ellie overheard the comments and glanced at Alex. He seemed unfazed by the attention. She looked down, hiding her feelings, reminding herself that the necklace and the affectionate gaze weren’t for her.
“Check it out; does it look good?” Alex asked, tilting her chin up so she could see herself in the mirror.
He stood close, one hand on her chin and the other on her shoulder. His eyes were locked on her reflection, a soft smile on his lips, and a warm look in his eyes.
They were so close that Ellie could feel his breath if she turned her head. But she knew the distance between them was like a math equation—infinitely close, yet never quite reaching.
Alex caught the brief look of wonder in her eyes. “I’m asking you, does it look good?” he repeated.
“It’s beautiful,” Ellie replied softly, and Alex finally removed the necklace from her neck, satisfied with her response.
As they were leaving, a staff member handed Alex a small black velvet box. “This is a special bracelet for our premium customers to celebrate the tenth anniversary of Vogue Kaleidoscope. It’s for you,” she said.
Alex took the box and opened it to reveal a platinum bracelet. “Here, take it,” he said, shoving the box into Ellie’s hand and leading her to the elevator.
Inside the elevator, Ellie noticed the words “Gift with Purchase” in gold on the box. She hesitated and said, “Our department has a rule against wearing jewelry during work hours.”
Alex glanced at her but didn’t take the box. “It’s a gift, but even if it wasn’t, it’s not like you can’t afford it. Just wear it when you’re off,” he replied.
The elevator doors opened, and Alex stepped out first. After a few steps, he turned to see Ellie trailing behind, looking downcast. He frowned.
When Ellie caught up, Alex asked, “Are you upset?”
She was momentarily stunned.
“Do you want the necklace too?” he continued.
