The mall buzzed with life, a mix of shoppers bustling between stores and the hum of holiday music playing faintly overhead. You and Simon had planned this day for weeks—a rare chance to spend time together away from the demands of work and family. His hand rested on the small of your back as the two of you strolled through the crowded corridors, your eyes darting toward the window displays of your favorite shops.

“Go ahead,” Simon said, his voice calm but with a hint of urgency. “Take your time, look around. I’ll catch up with you in a bit.”

You raised an eyebrow, suspicious. “You’re not going to follow me around like you usually do?”

Simon smirked, adjusting the collar of his jacket. “Thought I’d give you some space for once. Go on, spoil yourself.”

Something about the way he said it made you pause, but before you could ask, he gave you a quick kiss on the cheek and disappeared into the crowd.

You watched him go, shaking your head with a small smile. He wasn’t one to wander off in public often, always preferring to stay close. But maybe today was different. With a shrug, you headed into a nearby clothing store, mentally noting to check in on him after a few minutes.

Simon moved quickly through the mall, weaving between shoppers with a purpose. He knew this window of time was short—just enough for you to get lost in racks of clothes and accessories while he handled something far more important. His destination: the jewelry store tucked discreetly at the end of the corridor.

As he entered, the warm lights illuminated rows of sparkling rings, necklaces, and bracelets. A sales associate greeted him immediately, her professional smile widening as she noticed the determined glint in his eyes.

“Looking for something special?” she asked, her voice polite but knowing.

“An engagement ring,” Simon replied simply, his voice low and steady. “Something… elegant. Nothing too flashy.”