MARIE

The man’s eyes lit up. "That is beautiful! That means I haven't missed the big event yet." He began gesturing toward the wider showroom, his excitement palpable as other staff members began to notice us, bowing their heads and offering quiet, respectful greetings as we passed.

The sudden influx of attention felt heavy.

I looked at the polished floor, then leaned in close, my lips brushing against the shell of Daniel’s ear.

"Moon," I whispered, the words barely audible over the ...