M Mall – Part 2
Tuesday, continued …
“She is,” Hou Yi confirmed, his voice unwavering as he looked directly into Anna’s eyes. There was an intensity in his gaze that made it impossible for her to look away. “We just need a few things today—a dress and accessories for her to accompany me tonight to my parents, maybe a change or two of clothes, and of course nightwear and underwear. We need to hurry as we really don’t have much time.”
As he finished, Hou Yi leaned down and gave Anna a brief but clearly passionate kiss, his intent clear—this was more than just an innocent shop. His statement was meant to imply a sense of urgency, a prelude to their evening plans together, and perhaps a hint at the intimacy they would soon share back home.
“Madam Hou,” Sadie said with an exaggerated professionalism, “if you could follow me, I’ll take your measurements and then arrange for clothes to be brought in. Do you have any particular designer in mind?”
Before Anna could respond, Hou Yi stepped in. “Anything, a white, ivory, or cream-colored dress for tonight. The rest she can pick. Designers don’t matter—just get it done quickly.”
Sadie caught the undertones in Hou Yi’s words—he wanted this to be efficient, no fuss, and no luxury. He was clearly signaling that speed and simplicity were what mattered today. Sadie knew better than to push; she had to act fast to avoid upsetting him and risking her job.
“Honey,” Anna cooed, feigning innocence and affection, “I recall seeing a dress a couple of months ago in a magazine. It was in those colors you mentioned—white, ivory, or cream—but it had these lovely flower buds starting from the shoulder, moving down to larger flowers in the print. It was a new release from a designer, but I can’t remember the name. If we can get that, can I have it?”
Anna’s sugary tone was calculated—she needed to establish her role as a valuable client, someone who deserved not just good service, but the best. She knew Sadie’s real job was sales, and she was playing the part to get what she wanted while keeping costs low.
Hou Yi simply nodded. “Whatever you like. Let’s just get this done so we can go home.”
As Sadie escorted Anna into the change room, it was clear to both Hou Yi and Anna that they were not wanted here any longer than necessary. Anna knew they had an important meeting with a police officer back at his apartment and every minute counted.
“Madam Hou,” Sadie said, her voice tinged with a professionalism that Anna could see right through, “if you could please get undressed, I’ll take your measurements so I can find you the clothes you need.”
Anna complied, undressing quickly but with an air of grace and dignity. As Sadie measured, Anna remained composed, holding her ground despite the woman’s dismissive attitude. Once finished, she stopped Sadie from leaving.
“Please use the same place for the other clothes—the nightwear and underwear, a clutch to match the dress, another handbag. Don’t worry about shoes—I have a couple of good pairs that I can use,” Anna instructed firmly.
Sadie was taken aback by the request—Madam Hou was looking to keep costs down, and Sadie’s commission potential seemed to dwindle. But she knew better than to argue. Customer service was the top priority if she wanted to keep her job.
“I’ll do that, Madam Hou,” Sadie said, her tone clipped but professional. She turned to leave, taking a dressing gown off a hanger and handing it to Anna. “Please put this on, and feel free to sit with CEO Hou while I go and make the arrangements for the items.”
As soon as Sadie exited the room, Anna put on the gown, feeling the soft fabric against her skin. She knew Sadie was gone and took a moment to collect herself, realizing she’d managed to navigate this situation without losing her composure or giving away too much.
Hou Yi was right—the more people knew about their relationship, the harder it would be to keep control over their lives. As Sadie worked to gather the items, Anna made a mental note to discuss their next steps with Hou Yi. This evening was about more than just clothes—it was about their future together.
