Crystal

Crystal tugged at the edge of her fur-lined coat, wrapping herself tighter as the snowflakes danced in the crisp winter air. The streets were dusted white, reflecting the soft glow of the street lamps. At 23, she was used to luxury—her parents, both successful lawyers, had always made sure she never wanted for anything. This was her world: a world of expensive handbags, extravagant dinners, and designer everything. She sipped her caramel macchiato, cradling the warm cup in her perfectly manicured hands. Today was a shopping day, the kind that made her feel alive—an excuse to spoil herself and flaunt it. She swirled through the high-end shops, her heels clicking against the snow-covered sidewalk, eyes darting between the windows showcasing velvet jackets, diamond necklaces, and leather boots. This was her element. In the glimmering window of the high-end boutique, she noticed him—a tall, handsome man walking into the store. His designer jacket and expensive watch caught her eye immediately. She took a deep breath, giving herself a final check in the reflection of a passing storefront. Flawless. "Excuse me," she said, sidling up to him with a practiced smile. "I just love your jacket! It’s so... you. Are you, like, shopping for something special?" He smiled back, his gaze lingering on her for a moment too long, like he was trying to place her face. "I'm just browsing," he said, clearly not recognizing her. "And you?"