Their banter continued as they made their way out of the grocery section and toward the wet market outside the main building. It was bustling, noisy, and filled with the scent of fresh herbs, fish, and grilled skewers. The stalls stretched out like a maze, packed with people and bright tarpaulins.
As soon as they stepped in, a cheerful older woman from a fish stall waved. "Kendrick! Back again! Brought your pretty wife this time, ha?"
Zephany blinked. "Wife?"
Kendrick gave a polite nod. "Morning, Ma'am Elsa. Just here to stock up."
Ma'am Elsa's eyes twinkled. "She's lovely. Quiet one. You're a lucky man. Don't let this one go, okay?"
Kendrick glanced at Zephany, who looked like she wanted to hide behind the mango basket. "I try not to."
A group of vendors nearby caught wind of the exchange and chimed in.
"Is this the girl you were always buying strawberries for?" one man asked.
"She's prettier than we imagined!"
"Your babies will be adorable. Can we pre-order baby photos?"
