Lily walked ahead, already moving on from the sweater debate. The small shopping bag in her hand swung against her leg as she walked.
"I really think the blue one looked nicer," she said. "Leo just didn't like it because it had a zipper."
Leo remained close beside Arianne, one hand holding the sleeve of her coat as he watched the crowd. His gaze moved from one passerby to another, taking in everything without speaking. Every few steps, he glanced up at Arianne as if confirming she was there.
Audrey walked on Arianne's other side, adjusting the strap of her handbag.
"Zippers can be difficult," she said mildly. "Perhaps your brother simply prefers buttons."
"That's what I told him," Lily replied with satisfaction.
They had only walked a short distance from the restaurant when Arianne stopped.
Not slowed. Not hesitated.
Stopped.
