Caleb's eyebrows lifted a fraction.It was perfect.
Chad stared at it. "It's... bold."
"Fashion is about making bold statements," the shopper purred. "Taking risks. Not playing it safe with"—the pause was surgical—"off-the-rack basics."
Caleb bit back a smile.
"Try it," the shopper urged. "Just once."
Chad disappeared behind the curtain.
The shopper's gaze flicked to Caleb. Just for a second.
He lifted one eyebrow.
Her mouth curved.
They both knew exactly what she was doing.
Caleb turned slightly, pretending to examine his own reflection while keeping Chad's fitting area in his peripheral vision.
A minute later, Chad stepped out.
The shopper made an exaggerated gasp. "Yes. Exactly."
Chad caught his own reflection and stopped. The boutique lighting did the suit favors it didn’t deserve, making the purple look intentional instead of insane.
He turned, angling toward the mirror. The ruffled shirt fell open just enough. The chain sat heavy. The shoulders made him look broader.
He looked ridiculous.
"I don't know..." Chad said, frowning slightly at his reflection.
Then he caught movement in the mirror beyond his shoulder.
Caleb.
Recognition hit, immediate and delighted.
Chad turned. "Caleb Hart. No way." He shook his head like he couldn't believe his luck. "My mom watches your stuff religiously."
Caleb let his public smile deepen. "Your mom has excellent taste."
Chad laughed, validated. "She does. This place is insane, right?"
"It is," Caleb agreed, stepping closer. Moving from the main floor into Chad's fitting area with easy confidence.
Chad grinned, thrilled to be included.
Caleb's gaze moved to the plum suit. He studied it, then nodded once in approval.
"Now that," Caleb said, "is a man who came to be remembered."
Chad blinked. "You think? I wasn't sure if it was too much—"
"Are you kidding?" Caleb moved closer, inspecting the fabric like it was rare art. "This is exactly what you need."
The shopper nodded enthusiastically. "Precisely."
