My Daughter-In-Law Reached For My Bracelet At The Jewelry Store And Said It Was “Silly” Because I Was Treated Like A VIP.

Joseph,

I amended. Do you often ride to the rescue of strange women being berated in jewelry stores, or was today a special occasion? His laugh lines deepened.

I assure you, today was unprecedented, though I must confess I was already aware of who you were before the incident. This surprised me. Oh?

Morrison mentioned your name when I arrived for my appointment. Something about the symphony fund. It registered because I’ve contributed to their annual gala, though we’ve never crossed paths there.

The coincidence made me smile. I’ve chaired the auction committee for the past 5 years. Small world indeed.

He held my gaze a moment longer than strictly necessary. Though I suspect you and I have been moving in adjacent circles for some time without intersecting. There was something unexpectedly compelling about his direct manner.

No games. No pretense. Just straightforward interest.

After 15 years of navigating post-divorce dating scenes filled with agenda-laden interactions, the simplicity was almost disorienting. “And what brought you to Morrison’s today?” I asked. “Since we’re now apparently married, I should probably know what my husband shops for at exclusive jewelers.”

His expression softened with remembered affection.

My sister’s 70th birthday next month. She’s always been my strongest supporter. From my first struggling hotel to the international chain, I wanted something special for her.

The genuine warmth in his voice revealed more about him than perhaps he realized. A successful man who prioritized family relationships spoke volumes about his character. “And you,” he inquired.

“Before Miss Parker’s intervention, what brought you there?”

I sighed, the memory of Madison’s scheme returning. A manipulation, it seems. Madison orchestrated the outing, presumably to plant marriage ideas regarding my son.

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