Jefferson's POV
I stayed back in the shadows until she moved far enough ahead, then stepped into the open street. The reality of walking through Italian cobblestone alleys felt surreal, like I'd stepped into someone else's life. But Elisabeth's scent lingered in the air, grounding me to the moment.
The vendor she'd just visited beamed at me with the same cheerful expression he'd given her. That smile made something dark twist in my chest. I fixed him with a cold stare until his grin melted away completely.
He shifted nervously, clearing his throat. "How can I help you, sir?"
"The woman who was just here. What did she look at?" My tone carried an edge that made him flinch.
His smile returned as he produced a cheap necklace that looked like a child's craft project. Silver charms dangled from a thin chain, catching the afternoon light. Of all the jewelry in his display, this gaudy piece had caught her attention.
"How much?" I asked, already reaching for my wallet.
"Twenty euros."
