11
Beau stared at the array of jewels before him. Mr. Preston, one of the most prestigious jewelers on Oxford Street, waited expectantly as Beau considered the pieces.
“We have the most exquisite sapphires and the darkest garnets.” Preston retrieved a tray from beneath the glass counter and set it out for Beau’s inspection.
Beau waved the tray away. “Pearls, show me pearls. A double strand perhaps, and earrings that match. Teardrops, if you have them.”
The jeweler scrambled to collect some new items per Beau’s request. While he was in his storeroom, Beau looked out the shop window. Oxford Street was full of shoppers, despite the cold late-fall wind rushing down the streets; it was strong enough that it tugged at the cloaks and skirts of passersby.
Beau lost himself in a pleasant daydr
