I knew, without a doubt, that Elara had done this on purpose. As the artisan of the atelier, Elara could accurately gauge ring size at a glance. Such a significant mistake was impossible. In this world, a ring that doesn't fit is an omen everyone reads. She knew exactly what she was doing.
I didn't bother pointing it out and simply removed the ring.
The sales associate kindly suggested that I choose a different style, but I declined.
"Let's just buy this one and get it over with. No need to make it more complicated."
Ansel, hearing this, was clearly displeased with my tone.
"If you're not happy with it, we don't have to buy it. Elara can help you get a custom one later," he offered.
I shook my head and refused. "No, this one is fine."
Elara, however, looked deeply remorseful, her eyes brimming with tears once again. She tilted her head slightly to the right, her smile softening into something that looked like compassion.
"Serafina, I'm going straight to the studio to work on the design. I'll make sure you have a perfect Union!"
With that, she quickly left. No matter how much Ansel called after her, she didn't stop.