Near the center of it all, past the food court and the glowing storefronts, stood Victoria’s Secret. Pink and white lights spilled out onto the polished floor. Mannequins in lace and silk posed behind the glass.

Inside, a tall woman with long, glossy hair and a soft smile was folding a rack of pink robes. Her nails were done, her lashes were done, her whole presence felt polished—but warm. Approachable.

Tall. Broad. Dark curly hair falling over his forehead. Blue eyes scanning the store like it was a hostile foreign land.

He was wearing a grey hoodie and joggers. His hands were shoved deep in his pockets.

He looked like he’d rather be anywhere else on earth.