Chapter 26

At a jewelry store, the store assistant took the bead Natalie handed over, examined it carefully, then shook her head. "I'm sorry. We can't repair this here." Natalie thanked her softly, left the shop, and went to another. From gold shops to diamond shops, she went from one to the next. Finally, at one store, an elderly craftsman took a look and said, "I can try and stick it back together, but I can't guarantee it'll work." "Alright. Just do your best," Natalie replied. If it wasn't stuck back together, it wouldn't be long before the bead shattered completely. At that point, it would be beyond saving. The craftsman skillfully brought out his tools and noted, "This doesn't look very expensive. Is it important to you?" "It's my parents' keepsake." "Oh, my…" The craftsman's hand paused. "Then, if I can't fix it well enough—" "It's alright," Natalie interrupted. "I won't blame you. I've walked this street for over half an hour. You're the only one willing to take this job." "Alrig