The mall was a sprawling beast of glass and steel, its massive atrium catching the afternoon light, refracting it into rainbows across polished marble floors. Escalators whirred, carrying crowds between floors, while the scent of pretzels and perfume mixed in the air. Neon signs glowed above storefronts—Verve, Threadz, a fancy lingerie boutique, a tech store blasting bass-heavy ads.
Kids ran past, laughing, while couples and groups milled around, their voices blending into a constant buzz. The food court's aroma—burgers, sushi, cinnamon buns—wafted from the far end, tempting me as I walked beside Kim, her short brown hair bouncing, her borrowed t-shirt and jeans looking out of place in the mall's glossy vibe.
Kim's eyes lit up, scanning the stores, her steps quickening. "This place is huge," she said, her voice bright despite the weight of her situation—Tom's betrayal, her stolen stuff. "Where do we start?"
