"Then you need an appointment."
"I have an appointment connected to the gala."
Patricia folded her arms.
"With whom?"
"The restoration team."
The manager gave a thin smile.
"That department isn't accessible to walk-in visitors."
Diana glanced toward the younger associate.
"I believe there's been a misunderstanding."
Patricia stepped closer.
"No, ma'am. I understand perfectly."
Several customers turned toward them.
Diana remained composed.
"Could you please check the appointment record?"
Patricia didn't move.
Instead, she looked at the beautiful gown.
Then at the handbag.
"Look, I don't know whether you're here for a photo shoot or trying to get access to our private collection, but we serve serious clients here."
Diana's expression changed.
"Serious clients?"
Patricia smiled coldly.
"People with verified purchase histories and approved appointments."
The younger associate shifted uncomfortably.
She looked toward the reception computer, where Diana's name had appeared beside a scheduled appointment. But Patricia hadn't allowed her to finish checking the record.
Diana noticed the hesitation.
Then looked back at the manager.
"I'd appreciate it if you verified the reservation before deciding I shouldn't be here."
Patricia's face hardened.
"Don't tell me how to run my store."
Diana went completely still.
For one second, she seemed to be examining the woman in front of her.
Then she asked quietly, "Your store?"
Patricia leaned forward.
"Yes. My store. And I'm asking you to leave."
Diana didn't raise her voice.
"I haven't done anything wrong."
Patricia pointed toward the entrance.
"You need to leave right now, or I'll have security remove you."
The showroom fell silent.
One of the wealthy customers lowered her diamond bracelet onto the counter.
Another turned in his chair.
The young sales associate looked increasingly distressed.
Diana took a slow breath.
"I'm asking you one final time to check the appointment."
Patricia's jaw tightened.
Then she stepped forward and shoved Diana's shoulder.
"Out."
Diana took one step backward.
Her handbag swung slightly against her hip.
For a moment, everyone froze.
Then Patricia reached toward the handbag.
"And let me see what you're carrying before you walk out."
Diana caught the bag's handle and held it firmly.
"Take your hand off me."
Patricia sneered.
"Don't threaten me in my store."
A security officer near the entrance began walking toward them.
Diana turned toward him.
"Did you see what just happened?"
The guard hesitated.
He was a broad-shouldered Latino man in his forties, wearing a black security uniform with a discreet earpiece.
Before he could answer, Patricia snapped, "Escort her out."
The guard looked from Diana to Patricia.
Then toward the nearby security camera.
"Ma'am, I'd like to understand what happened first."
Patricia's face flushed.
"I gave you an instruction."