“Olivia.”
The young associate stopped.
“Would you prepare the Heritage Salon for the Hollisters?”
“Yes.”
Olivia hesitated.
Then looked toward Alicia.
Vanessa’s expression sharpened.
Now.
Not later.
Olivia obeyed.
Alicia almost felt sorry for her.
The Hollisters were escorted toward a private room.
Champagne followed.
Vanessa returned.
“Now.”
Alicia tilted her head.
“Now what?”
Vanessa’s smile flickered.
“The bracelet.”
“I’m still waiting.”
“Yes.”
Vanessa unlocked the case.
For one second Alicia thought perhaps the moment would correct itself.
Then Vanessa removed a velvet tray containing two bracelets that Alicia had not requested.
Both were significantly less expensive.
One was eighteen thousand.
The other twenty-four.
She placed them onto the counter.
“These might be more appropriate places to start.”
Alicia did not look down.
“I asked for the Art Deco bracelet.”
“I understand.”
“Then why did you bring these?”
Vanessa’s patience thinned visibly.
“Because I’ve been doing this a long time.”
Alicia remained quiet.
Vanessa continued.
“Sometimes customers become focused on a piece without understanding what owning something at that level entails.”
Alicia raised one eyebrow.
“What does owning it entail?”
“Insurance.”
“Storage.”
“Maintenance.”
“Security.”
“Resale considerations.”
Alicia nearly admired the improvisation.
Nearly.
“Do those issues differ based on the customer?”
Vanessa’s expression cooled.
“I’m trying to help you.”
“No.”
Alicia’s voice was soft.
“You’re trying to decide for me.”
Catherine had stopped arranging rings again.
Olivia had not yet disappeared into the private salon.
The atmosphere shifted.
Vanessa placed one palm flat on the glass counter.
“I think we’re getting off on the wrong foot.”
“I agree.”
“Then perhaps we should start with your budget.”
Alicia smiled for the first time.
Not warmly.
“What do you think my budget is?”
Vanessa stiffened.
“I didn’t say I knew.”
“You’ve acted as though you do.”
“I’m trying to provide appropriate service.”
Alicia looked toward the cheaper bracelets.
“Based on what?”
Vanessa did not answer.
“Was it my appointment status?”
“No.”
“My clothing?”
“No.”
“My payment history?”
“We haven’t reached payment.”
“Exactly.”
The manager’s face tightened.
“Ma’am—”
“Alicia.”
“What?”
“My name is Alicia.”
Vanessa did not react.
Apparently the surname would have mattered.
The first name did not.
“Ms. Alicia, if you feel you aren’t receiving the experience you expected, I’m happy to recommend another store.”
That sentence made Olivia close her eyes briefly.
Alicia saw it.
“Another store?”
“Yes.”
“There are several excellent jewelers nearby who may have inventory closer to what you’re seeking.”
Alicia looked around.
At the vitrines.