Boots, check! Storage ring, check! A light attire, check! And a beautiful smile, also check! Such was the look on Yuna as she prepared for the day, humming carefreely as if there wasn't a single problem in the world.
She was even more radiant than the morning sun, her hair fluttering ever so smoothly as she twirled around. She wasn't even wearing any makeup yet she already looks so stunning. Truly a beauty sent from the heavens.
"Grey, I'm off～!" ［Yuna］
"Alright. Take care～." ［Grey］
Grey's voice echoing in their house, Yuna opened the door, a click and creak ringing clearly soon after. Another creak, much heavier than the first, soon followed as Yuna opened the gates, the verdant scenery greeting her warmly along the refreshing air.
"Looks like it's going to be a good day!" ［Yuna］
A smile on her face, Yuna then set off towards the horizon, skipping her steps from time to time like an excited little child. And like a little child, her head turned left and right as she observed the wonderful scenery, soon continuing her humming.
Few minutes passed, and the once quiet scenery turned into a lively and bustling venue. The people's voices could be heard all over the place, a myriad of scents and sceneries to be observed. It was the marketplace!
"Oh! Lady Yuna! Good morning!"
"Un! Good morning～!" ［Yuna］
"Lady Yuna, would you like to have some oranges?"
"Sorry, but I just had breakfast. Maybe next time?" ［Yuna］
The people greeted her warmly and she greeted them back with a bright smile and a wave of her hand. It wasn't only because she was a hero, but also because she was one the people loved in general.
A poise and elegant beauty whose beauty can only be watched from afar. Not only that, she was also a warm, kind, and caring person. Such was how the people viewed her. A complete opposite of the spoiled and clingy baby she acts like when she is with Grey. Truly an interesting fellow.
The greetings continued and so did Yuna's walk. Though she would usually go out with Grey, the latter was a little busy with his smithing work. Well, that wasn't the only reason why our heroine is alone. There was one much more important.
What was it, one might ask? The answer is simple. It was because a very special day was approaching, one which came only once a year and one she wanted to treasure dearly as if it meant the whole world to her. It was, of course, Grey's birthday!
Having received so much from him, she also wants to pay him back. And now, it isn't only because they were friends or partners. Now, for the very first time, she is going to celebrate Grey's birthday as his girlfriend! A sense of duty and determination was welling up inside her.
Of course, having been in a relationship for the very first time, Yuna didn't really know what to do. Thankfully, she has some reliable friends to count on. For that, we'll have to go back a few days' time where it all began...
"Thank you for dining in! Please come back again!" ［Helen］
Cling Cling Cling
The chimes rang, and the doors closed soon. Helen was once again at the counter, doing her duties, running around the inn and serving the customers, whilst Gerd and Selia were in the kitchen discussing things with Grey. It was a normal day.
"Haah..." ［Yuna］
Well, it would have been normal if it weren't for the young lady who has been sighing ever so frequently, laying down her head on her arms as she slumped on the counter, her eyes void of colors as if her soul was escaping her body. A rare, depressed Yuna.
"Yuna, what's wrong? You've been sighing a lot lately... Did you and Grey get into an argument again?" ［Helen］
"No, we didn't... It's just... Can you listen to me for a moment?" ［Yuna］
"Hm? Of course. What is it?" ［Helen］
Lending her ear, Helen grabbed a nearby seat and sat beside Yuna. The latter then leaned closer to the former's ear and whispered her problems. Helen listened to her carefully, nodding her head regularly.
"I see... So that's how it is..." ［Helen］
It wasn't long before Helen understood what was going on. Though she was slow when it came to her own love life, she was unmatched when it came to others. The years she spent romance novels weren't all for nothing!
"Hmm? Couldn't you just make Grey something? I'm sure he'll love it." ［Helen］
"Umm... Actually... I already did..." ［Yuna］
"And the problem is...?" ［Helen］
"It's just... I wonder if he'll like it..." ［Yuna］
Said Yuna, her head even drooping further. Even though she knows Grey would like it, it would most likely be because she gave it to him. As for whether he'll like the present itself, it was a completely different matter.
A smile is all Yuna wants from him. Even then, she wants it to be a smile not only because of her, but because of her present itself as well. She wants Grey to treasure it the way it is and not just serve as some fancy decoration from her.
Helen hasn't even had a boyfriend yet, but she could fully understand where Yuna was coming from. After all, she has also given out gifts before. Be it her parents, neighbors, or customers.
"Fufufu! Then, you've come to the right person! Yuna, I'll teach you the right way to a man's heart! You better prepare yourself!" ［Helen］
A confident laugh followed by a bold declaration. Though she couldn't even properly handle her love life, she was making such confident claims in front of Yuna. What's even stranger was that Yuna was on board as well. Truly a great pair of friends.
For the several minutes to come, Helen taught Yuna all she knew about what kinds of presents men would like from their special someone. Of course, all of which were knowledge from the hundreds of romance novels she read and countless stories she heard from the customers.
It was a pretty productive and informative session. Very informative in fact that they touched the topics which aren't exactly one could call pure by any means. Well, what matters was that Yuna learned a lot. She was thankful.
"Do you understand it now, Student Yuna?" ［Helen］
"I understood it well, Teacher!" ［Yuna］
"Fufufu! Then I'll be expecting great outcomes from you!" ［Helen］
"Un! Leave it to me!" ［Yuna］
The once depressed Yuna was no more. Now, all that there was left was an excited and determined girl, heart blazing with passion as she confidently raised her closed fist towards the air.
Though... Yuna and Helen... They were just too energetic to the point that it was a little worrying observing them from afar. The customers who overheard them couldn't decide whether to laugh or cry. They could only smile wryly.
"Ah! Right.... Helen, I have a question." ［Yuna］
"Sure, ask ahead! As a 'Love Master', I shall answer any and all questions you want to be answered!" ［Helen］
"Okay... Then... Have you made any progress with Owen?" ［Yuna］
A single statement. That was all that's needed to take down the self-declared "Love Master". As soon as she heard Yuna's words, she immediately got frozen, her face red all the way to the tip of her ears.
She hasn't even said a word, but the answer was already clear. Too much for being a "Love Master", she can't even get through her love life, progressing even slower than a turtle going uphill. She surprisingly has an innocent side to her.
After consulting with Helen, Yuna then asked around from other people whenever she had the chance to. Be it in the guilds or from their acquaintances' homes, she didn't miss a single chance. And the results were...
"Hmm... For Grey... I'd say some cufflinks would do..." ［Gaston］
"Oh, Grey? I'm sure he'll like anything you give him." ［Kris］
"Don't listen to him, Yuna... How about a massage? I'm sure he'll like it," ［Aria］
"Ah! Then you should cook him the best meal! The way to a man's heart is through their stomachs, after all!" ［Rina］
"Flowers! I'm sure Big Bro would like flowers!" ［Bella］
There was a variety of responses from everyone and each of them made a fair point. Even little Bella who just happened to overhear things made a pretty good advice. It was the right thing to ask for everyone's opinion.
Since then, a few days have passed and Yuna is now on the market. She had made a mental note of what things to buy, and it was quite a long one. Well, not that it was enough to discourage our heroine or anything.
'Grey! Just you wait! I'll make you the happiest man in the world!' ［Yuna］
Loud and full of determination, Yuna declared inside her heart as she lit her heart ablaze. She clenched her hand tightly, the atmosphere even getting more intense than when she's in battle. Yuna has entered serious mode.
Marching to her own beat, Yuna headed to her first stop. It was a boutique not too far away from the bustling market. It was a boutique specially tailored for men's needs and is one of the best places in the city to get some wonderful sets of clothing.
Cling Cling Cling
The moment Yuna entered, she could immediately feel a different atmosphere loom about her. Unlike the women's boutiques which are designed more artistically and beautifully, the current boutique was simple yet elegant. A fascinating difference.
What's more, the mannequins and racks for display were much higher and larger. It truly shows the difference between the physiques of men and women. Even the way the employees act towards the customers was different.
Well, it wasn't only Yuna who was looking around the store. As soon as she entered, all eyes were on her as if they had just seen a goddess enter the store, her beauty simply outshining the lights. She was breathtaking.
"Psst. Hey, do you know who she is? She's really pretty."
"I know. Should I just go talk to her?"
"Eh, but, why is she in a men's boutique?"
"Who cares. That isn't important right now."
Both the employees and customers were mesmerized by her beauty. Especially the men, they couldn't help but whisper with one another. It was obvious that some of them already had their hearts stolen from them.
Well, all of the men except one. He was a tall man who seemed like he was in his mid-thirties. Black hair adorned his crown and his eyes were green like the deep forest. Yet another good-looking character has entered the scene.
"Just wait a bit, I'll go talk to herー"
"Huhu. If I were you, I wouldn't do such a reckless thing, young man. Treasure your life a little bit, will you?" ［???］
"A-Ah, yes...?"
Vaguely warning the man and letting go of the other's shoulder, the man continued to walk towards Yuna's direction, eyeing her respectfully. He only stopped when the latter finally noticed his approach. There was a courteous smile about his face.
"Greetings, Your Highness, Lady Yuna. I am called Reese. It's a delightful pleasure that you have graced this humble store of mine." ［Reese］
Polite. Very polite. Such was how Reese welcomed Yuna as he bowed her head towards her, greeting her like a gentleman. He was so fluent and skilled with his movements that you would think he was a highborn nobleman.
Well, that wasn't the only reaction. As soon as the people understood who Yuna was, they immediately followed suit and also greeted her warmly. They felt both respect and admiration as they looked at her, now in a completely new light. Their eyes were sparkling very brightly.
As for the men who were about to hit on Yuna... They could only sweat bullets. They then heaved a sigh of relief, thanking Reese for saving them from their recklessness. After all, Yuna was not one they should approach with such intentions.
"Umm... Everyone, please raise your heads. Though I appreciate the sentiment, I'm just here as a customer. No need to feel so tense." ［Yuna］
"Huhuhu. If that's what Her Highー I mean, Miss Yuna wants." ［Reese］
All it took was a single statement from Yuna and everyone quickly returned to normal. Well, almost normal. The people just couldn't help but admire Yuna from afar, looking at her like some sort of celebrity, everyone feeling lucky.
"Then, Miss Yuna, is there anything you would like some help with?" ［Reese］
"I do, but... Isn't Mister Reese busy? I'm sure you have a lot of work to do," ［Yuna］
"Huhuhu! Not at all, not at all. My employees are all very competent, you see. Even if I'm not here, the store would still run smoothly. And that's why... Rather than doing nothing, I'd rather be of assistance to Miss Yuna." ［Reese］
A very eloquent man, but despite that, he was all sincere with his words. He simply wanted to be of service to the lady before him and give her the best experience in his store. After all, such was the essence of a gentleman.
"Then... If it isn't so much trouble... I would like your help, please." ［Yuna］
"Of course. It's my pleasure." ［Reese］
The man was shining. Though it was the first time Yuna had met the man before her, she could tell that he had no malicious intentions towards her. Especially with the blinding smile plastered on his face.
"Then, could I ask what kind things Miss Yuna is looking for?" ［Reese］
"Mmn... I'd like to pick some jackets and coats, please. Oh, and I'd like to see some suit vests too, if possible." ［Yuna］
"Jackets, coats, and suit vests... If that's the case, please follow me." ［Reese］
The gentleman mumbled, leading Yuna towards a section of the store where such clothes were displayed. It was a colorful section, full of dark and bold colors which, each design slightly unique than the others and all equally amazing.
Well, it wasn't just the looks. The fabrics and materials used on the clothes were all high-quality, made from the best materials the store could procure. Many were soft, light, and durable at the same time. They were clothing many men would wish for.
"These are all the jackets, coats, and similar pieces of clothing we have in store. If Miss Yuna wants, we also have a custom made service." ［Reese］
"Ah, no... I think this is enough. I'll be needing it tomorrow, after all." ［Yuna］
"Huhuhu. Is this a present for a special someone, perhaps?" ［Reese］
The gentleman asked teasingly, but no answer came his way. Curious about the sudden silence, he then took a peek at Yuna's expression, thinking he made a mistake, but all he saw was a blushing young lady.
"Un... It's for my boyfriend..." ［Yuna］
Mumbled Yuna, her voice soft as the fresh morning breeze. She tried to cover her face with her delicate hands, but it was useless. Both of her ears were red all the way to the very tip. It was obvious that she was flustered, feeling feverish.
It was as if lightning struck her. As soon as the gentleman saw Yuna's expression, strong emotions of happiness and determination surged inside his heart. His hands were trembling from such a rush of emotions.
'S... So... So precious!' ［Reese］
Screamed Reese inwardly as he covered his mouth and clenched one of his fists, eyes almost crying. He was just like Helen. A connoisseur for sweet romance and an ally of people in love. Actually, he's even much worse than Helen. He was hopeless.
'Don't worry, My Lady! I'll make sure you pick the best of presents!' ［Reese］
Declared Reese as his eyes lit ablaze. He was determined to pick the best present for Yuna's special someone. He may not know who the lady was referring to, but it doesn't matter. He needs to aid a lovely maiden in love!
There was a totally different flint in his eyes as if he was going to battle. He doesn't even care about profiting anymore nor does he care about the other customers. He is a total lost cause. Even then, he was a gentleman.
"Miss Yuna, please take a look at this suit vest which was just completed a few days ago. It is made of Linkae fabric and embroidered with Golden Spider thread. Other than the fact that it looks aesthetically pleasing, it's also light..." ［Reese］
Reese has gone full serious mode, after picking a wonderful suit vest from the ones on display, he immediately explained what it was, clearly stating its origins and perks. It was a long speech but Yuna listened to him attentively.
It didn't just end there. As soon as he heard Yuna's opinion about the suit vest, he then picked out another piece from the nearby closets and started explaining once again. Such long explanations lasted several minutes.
"What do you think, Miss Yuna? Do you have anything you fancy?" ［Reese］
"Mmn... Could I take a look at the first one again? I think it would suit him." ［Yuna］
"Of course. Take as much time as you need." ［Reese］
At the end of the explanations, Yuna managed to find a couple wonderful outfits for Grey. Of course, it wasn't just the top. Yuna also got some pants, trousers, boots, and shoes for Grey. It wouldn't be complete without the others, after all.
"Hmm..." ［Yuna］
"Is something wrong, Miss Yuna?" ［Reese］
"Ah, no... Excuse me, but... Do you have any cufflinks or ties available here? I'd also like to buy some." ［Yuna］
"Huhuhu! Of course, just leave it to me." ［Reese］
More minutes passed, and after dozens, maybe even hundreds, of internal debates, Yuna finally settled on a few outfits. There was a smile on her face as she imagined how Grey would look in them, feeling excited and giggling by herself.
Of course, with the quality of the outfits, it went without saying that the sum was pretty large. Though Reese tried to give a discount, Yuna refused him firmly. It was just plain burdensome, after all.
"It was only a short time, but I hope Miss Yuna had a wonderful experience in our store. I hope you'll come back again." ［Reese］
"Fufufu! I will! And thank you for everything!" ［Yuna］
"Huhuhu! It was my pleasure." ［Reese］
With a wave of her hand, Yuna easily stored the items in her storage ring. She then waved her hands goodbye and left the store. It was a wonderful experience and she hopes to drop by again next time, with Grey by her side, of course.
"Okay! Let's keep on going!" ［Yuna］
Still overflowing with energy, Yuna then hyped herself up and headed towards a variety of stores, heading in and out of multiple establishments. She skipped her steps with joy and excitement in her heart, humming ever so merrily.
"How about this, Your Highness? I think this would make a lovely pair."
"Oh, for a present? If that's the case, then I recommend..."
"Hahaha! Of course, anything for Lady Yuna!"
"Here are our best products. Please have a look."
Such was how Yuna's day went. With a variety of stores, she also managed to get a myriad of items from them. She even got a couple freebies from the store owners to show their admiration. It was a wonderful day.
Lunch soon passed and the afternoon continued. After shopping for several hours, everything was finally complete. Though she went a little overboard, she was very satisfied. It was a successful adventure, overall. Quest complete!
"Hmm... I wonder if Grey will like all of this..." ［Yuna］
Thought Yuna as she once again peeked at the presents she bought. And though she wasn't sure how Grey would react, she couldn't help but make a smile, looking forward to her beloved's reaction.
"Hehe! I'm getting excited!" ［Yuna］
An excited smile on her face, Yuna headed home in a merry mood. The sun was about to set, and so the sky was painted with a golden and amber hue like that of sweet honey. Such a beautiful scene accompanied Yuna as she went home.
She hadn't had the chance to have lunch with Grey so she was looking forward to dinner, wanting to spend more time with him. Though she was feeling a little lonely, she still did her best to overcome her neediness for Grey. She was proud of herself.
"I'm home～!" ［Yuna］
"Oh, welcome back." ［Grey］
A simple greeting, yet the impact was very massive. Just hearing his voice ring in her ears, Yuna's heart quickly started racing, her eyes glued to her beloved. The sight of Grey making dinner was one she couldn't help but admire.
"How was your day? Did you meet any problems?" ［Grey］
"No, not at all. The people were very kind! It was very fun! I also saw lots of new and amazing things. Did you know that...." ［Yuna］
Like an excited child telling her parents what happened at school, Yuna happily told Grey what kinds of things she experienced on her day out. She was very happy, not a single moment the smile on her face disappeared.
"Hahaha. Then should we go out someday, again? A formal date, I mean." ［Grey］
"Un! I'd love to!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. It's settled then." ［Grey］
It hasn't even been long since their last date but Yuna was just as excited as ever. Well, it wasn't just her, Grey was also looking forward to it. After all, every moment with one another was a precious and irreplaceable one. They couldn't help but look forward to it.
Grey continued chopping the vegetables and silence loomed over the house. Yuna could only look at the man before her lovingly, her emotions overflowing. She was falling even harder for him with every passing moment.
"Grey..." ［Yuna］
"Yeah...?" ［Grey］
"I love you." ［Yuna］
It was all too sudden. As soon as Grey heard Yuna's words, his hands immediately stopped moving, soon looking at her with puzzled eyes. Even then, he was feeling a little flustered, his face turning a bit rosy.
"H-Hey! What's with that all of a sudden?!" ［Grey］
"Well, that's becauseー" ［Yuna］
"Because...?" ［Grey］
Leaving Grey hanging, Yuna didn't finish her words. What she realized in front of her was an opportunity to get back to Grey for all the teasing he did to her. A mischievous smile formed on her face as she giggled to herself.
"Hehehe! That's a secret～!" ［Yuna］
Keeping the secret to herself, Yuna only beamed a smile to the still puzzled Grey. Soon enough, she went up the stairs hurriedly whilst still giggling to herself as if she just did something naughty.
On the other hand, Grey who was left downstairs was a little frozen. A few seconds later, he lost the strength in his legs, forced to squat on the floor. Such a powerful surprise attack was just too much. It was too overwhelming.
"Dammit... That girl... So cute...!" ［Grey］
Words broken and face feeling feverish, Grey's heart was racing madly as the thought of his adorable girlfriend. The winds continued to blow and the emotions swirled like a turbulent storm. It was a critical hit.
CHAPTER 212 END