Chapter 256

"You're quite the character." Evelyn Carter studied the young man behind the counter. His baby face contrasted sharply with his sharp tongue. "Though you've got a lot to learn about customer service. Look how red you're getting just from this conversation."

"Get out if you're not buying anything!" The boy slammed his carving tools down. "You're distracting me from my work."

Evelyn arched an eyebrow. Most shopkeepers worried about losing business, not about being distracted. This one was different. And the more he snapped at her, the more intrigued she became.

"I never said I wasn't buying," she countered, running her fingers along a wooden figurine. "I just haven't found the right piece yet."

"You won't find anything here! Just leave already!"

Evelyn nearly laughed. In all her years of shopping in Veridian City's Antiquarius Lane, she'd never met a merchant who chased customers away.

Before she could respond, the curtain behind the counter rustled. An older man emerged, scowling at the apprentice. "Scaring away customers again, Julian? Do you want to keep this job or not?"

The fiery young man instantly deflated, shoulders slumping. "I—"

"So you're not the owner?" Evelyn's lips curved knowingly.

Julian's head snapped up, face flushing crimson with humiliation. He opened his mouth—

"Quiet!" The older man barked. "How many times must I tell you? Customers are our livelihood! Who's going to buy these carvings if you frighten everyone away? Back to work!" He turned to Evelyn with practiced charm. "My apologies, madam. How may I assist you today?"

Evelyn watched Julian return to his carving, the storm of emotions passing over his face like clouds across the sun. Fascinating how quickly his temper flared and faded.

"I'm just browsing," she said, examining the shop's wares. "You have remarkable wood here."

"Carvings," the owner corrected stiffly. "Each piece is handcrafted by master artisans. Unique designs, exquisite details—"

A derisive snort came from Julian's corner.

The owner glared at his apprentice before continuing smoothly, "Perfect for home decoration or prestigious gifts. What specifically are you—"

"Not the carvings," Evelyn interrupted. "The wood itself. There's something special about it."

The shopkeeper blinked. "The... wood?"

"Yes." Evelyn picked up a half-carved block Julian had abandoned. "This grain pattern, this scent... Where does it come from?"

Julian's head jerked up, his carving knife freezing mid-stroke. Their eyes met—his wide with surprise, hers alight with discovery.

The apprentice and the customer shared a silent understanding that left the shop owner utterly confused.