The two left the jewelry shop soon after, the sound of bells fading behind them.
The streets had grown quieter than earlier, and most vendors closed their stalls as dusk approached. Snowflakes began to fall again—light at first, like drifting ash in the air.
"Let's find that shop before the snowfall gets worse," Zayden said, clearing his throat.
His voice came out steadier than he felt. The image of Ren's smile still lingered, pulling at something deep and irrational inside him.
It's fine. He has every right to miss his mate.
Yet the thought didn't ease the ache tightening in his chest.
Ren nodded softly, clutching the small box that held the necklace.
"Yes, my lord."
The tailor's shop wasn't far. Ren didn't understand why Zayden got lost. Or maybe he was right—the snow made it harder to recognize it because it hid the nameplate.
