PAID

The next day, after wrapping up Ethan’s measurements—despite some minor awkward moments—I headed out to the shopping district to buy clothes based on his measurements.

Of course, Ethan wasn’t with me. We’d planned to pick out outfits for each other, and it would ruin the surprise if he saw his clothes beforehand.

I usually went on outings like this with Agnes at my side back in the academy.

Thinking about how I’d wasted a whole year over a silly misunderstanding with her felt like a missed opportunity. At the very least, having her around meant I’d always had someone to banter with. Now, with neither Agnes nor my old classmates like Natalie and Lizzie around, I felt a hint of loneliness. Most of the warrior party members I’d bonded with had already graduated.@@novelbin@@

If it weren’t for Lyria and Mirif, this last year would have been quite gloomy. Naturally, I ended up shopping with those two today.

“Thank you both, Lyria and Mirif, for joining me on such short notice today.”

“It’s my duty to help with anything you ask, Senior Lilith! Don’t mention it!” Lyria responded, brimming with enthusiasm.

“I-I’m also always ready to assist Sister Lily… Please, feel free to call on me anytime…!” Mirif stammered, her nervousness evident.

…One was overly confident, while the other was overly tense, making them each a bit overwhelming in different ways. Lyria’s high energy had been challenging to match since we first met, but recently, Mirif had been acting even more awkward around me.

In any case, they were the only friends I had left in the academy, so I didn’t have many options. I’d briefly considered going shopping alone, but shopping is always more fun with company.