The carriage stopped at a busy shop.
Verona took in the whole aesthetic of the shop. "Barion's" She said under her breath. "Is this a jewelry shop?"
Tristan nodded his head as he escorts the ladies off the carriage. "Yes, my love. He's the heir of the Barion's jewels and gem trade."
'The gem trade business?' Verona thought to herself. People of the gem trade business are untouchable. No one can ever put dirt on their name and they know every single noble in the country. 'The Barions are famous in the Leisure Station Gems articles.'
The Barions are one of the most expensive and aristocratic families. They fear no one. They can buy someone and pay someone more than enough to keep them quiet. 'The members of the family cannot be trusted.' Verona said to herself. They're the only family that hasn't had any bad thing written about them on the paper.
Tristan opened the door for the two women and they set foot inside the jewelry shop. The only display of jewelry was at the front desk. They definitely value the safety of their jewels. The chandelier shone a dim light throughout the shop and the mirror around reflect its radiance.
The many people running and walking around the shop were the workers holding various boxes as each of them passed by. Verona assumed that they contained different kinds of jewelry or gems.
"What brings you here today, Tristan?"
A striking young man walks out from the backdoor of the shop. He was six feet tall, had light brown hair, green eyes, and a charm to his smile. His appearance intimidated Verona since he looked so powerful, considering his family background and societal status.
Delia could not get her eyes off of him. Tristan looked at her and he chuckled, knowing that the unknowing aristocrat is the guy that she liked.
Tristan walked to the man and shook his hand. "Baveron Barion, my friend. It's been a long time."
Baveron nodded his head. "Indeed it has been." He looked at Verona and Delia and smiled. "Now who are you with today?" He looked at Delia. "I assume this fine maiden is who you fancy." He then looked at Verona. "And she is your beautiful maid."
Tristan was speechless. Delia was petrified and Verona stood still in shock. The three of them were still trying to process what the young aristocrat said.
Baveron took Verona's hand and kissed it. "I pray this lady is not yet to be wed."
Tristan grabbed Baveron's hand and stood in front of Verona, shielding her from the man. "Unfortunately, she is my bride-to-be." Tristan smiled calmly at his friend. "This lady is off-limits."
"Huh" Baveron huffed. He looked at Verona's innocent hiding face and at Tristan's smug one. He realized something. He can't have her.
Baveron laughed. "I see, Tristan." He glanced at Verona one last time. "I see." He said before changing the subject. "So...what brought you all here today? I think my talented desk attendant will see to your needs." He turned around to walk away.
"Wait."