s breath. Chloe's jaw hung open, her triumphant

his respect too deep. This wasn't standard customer service, n

answered, her voi

imperceptible nod to an assistant standing behind him, who immediate

ked like genuine relief. "It is a distinct honor to meet y

nod in return. "I

rossed Caleb's face, so qu

You see, to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the Sterling Center, we are holding a very discree

nly thing that made a semblance of sense. From the doorway, Chloe's e

esonating with importance, "all of your purchases wi

e mountain of couture from next door? Any piece of jewelry

eyes wide. Caleb gave him another infin

d of the 'Lucky Customer' story, but she wasn't

as all

slim, elegant black box. He presented it to h

. This is the Sterling Center Black Card. With it, you will receive exclusive access, priv

was a symbol of ultimate status in Veridia City, bestowed upon only a handful of the most powerful i

a prize. It was a tribute. A message of goodwill, not to he

he box. "T

actly what Caleb was hoping for. A

ken care of and will be delivered to your residence immediately,"

anding on the furious, humiliat

eb. "I would just lik

e instantly transforming from deferential to gla

r. "If you are not here to make a purchase, I must ask

g with shame, Chloe, Morgan, and Kylie turned and practically fled, t