In the mall outside, a massive screen blared the kind of news that stops people in their tracks.
"Breaking: Killian Barnes, president of the Barnes Group of Companies, has purchased a ten-carat pink diamond necklace for 800 million US dollars at the world’s most exclusive auction. Sources reveal the necklace, a former royal collection, is one of the rarest in existence. When asked about the extravagant purchase, Mr. Barnes replied, ‘My wife loves pink.’"
The broadcast triggered delighted gasps from a nearby pair of girls.
"Oh my god! Mr. Barnes and Penelope are living the fairy-tale romance of my dreams!" one squealed.
"Right? Remember when Penelope joked about wanting the stars for her birthday, and Mr. Barnes bought the naming rights to an entire star field just for her? It’s like a movie!"
"Don’t forget, they’ve been together since college! From campus sweethearts to wedding bliss… Ugh, I’m so jealous. Where can I find a husband like Mr. Barnes?"
Their giddy chatter continued, but I felt nothing but bitter irony.