The moment Linsy laid eyes on the dress, it was as though time paused around her.

The fabric shimmered like a rippling lake under moonlight, beckoning her into its spell. Without a word, she turned and disappeared into the dressing room, clutching the masterpiece with a reverence usually reserved for sacred relics. Charlie, standing by the ornate rack of evening gowns, casually browsed through a cascade of silk and tulle while waiting for Linsy to emerge.

When Linsy finally stepped out, it ...