Chapter 18

We arrived at a large department store.

This place has not only an electronics store but also grocery stores, daily necessities, and even apparel shops

As we headed to the PC parts section, I browsed the shelves lined with different graphics cards, searching for one that would suit Rinka’s PC.

“How about this one? It’s got good performance for the price, and I think it’s more than enough for gaming.”

When I pointed at a particular model and explained, Rinka tilted her head slightly before picking up the package.

“Hmm, I see. Then I guess I’ll go with this one. If Kazuya-kun recommends it, I’m sure it’s the right choice!”

Seeing Rinka accept my advice so readily gave me a warm feeling inside.

“Hearing that does put a bit of pressure on me, though…”

“Don’t worry, don’t worry!”

Saying that cheerfully, Rinka happily walked toward the register.

After successfully purchasing the graphics card, we were heading toward the exit when Rinka suddenly stopped in her tracks.

“Hey, since we’re here, why don’t we turn this into a date?”

“H-Huh? A-a date!?”

Her unexpected proposal made my voice crack involuntarily. Seeing my reaction, Rinka grinned playfully.

“I mean, we came all the way to this huge department store, right? It’d be a waste to just buy the graphics card and head straight home.”

“Well… I guess you have a point, but…”

“Then it’s settled! Come on, let’s go.”

With that, Rinka lightly tugged my arm and led me toward a stylish apparel shop.

The moment we stepped inside, her eyes sparkled as she picked up a vibrant pink outfit.

“Oh! This brand just released a new collection! So cute~!”

“O-Oh… I see…”

In the bustling apparel shop, I was completely out of my element.

All around me, women and couples were happily picking out clothes, while I stood awkwardly near a display shelf. I never realized how uncomfortable it could be to be the only guy in a place like this.

This place is way too overwhelming for me…

“But since I just bought the graphics card, I can only afford one outfit…”

“Whoa, that’s pricey!”

Glancing at the price tag, I saw an extra digit compared to the clothes I usually buy. I nearly did a double take.

I never knew girls’ clothes were this expensive…

“Kazuya-kun, which one do you think looks better on me?”

Seemingly unaware of my shock, Rinka turned to me with a bright smile, holding up two dresses—one a soft pink with an elegant design, the other a striking red with a more mature vibe.

“Uh… I think either would look good on you…”

When I responded half-heartedly, Rinka puffed out her cheeks in dissatisfaction.

“Mou, that’s not helpful at all! You have to pick one properly!”

“S-Sorry…”

“Geez!”

Still pouting, she grabbed my arm and all but dragged me to the fitting room at the back of the store.

“W-wait…”

“I’m going to try them on now, so make sure to tell me which one looks better, okay?”

With that, Rinka disappeared into the fitting room.

What do I do? I have zero fashion sense—am I really the right person to decide this?

“Kazuya-kun~ I’m ready! Watch closely, okay?”

As I was lost in thought, her cheerful voice called out from behind the curtain, making me instinctively straighten up. Then, with a quick swish, the curtain was pulled open.

Before me stood Rinka, dressed in an elegant beige one-piece dress. The delicate design traced a graceful silhouette from her shoulders down to her waist. It was a completely different look from her school uniform—gentle, feminine, and utterly charming.

“Well? How does it look?”

As Rinka twirled around, the airy skirt swayed lightly. Mesmerized by the movement, I hurriedly responded.

“It really suits you… You look so graceful.”

“Fufu, okay, now I’ll try on the other one!”

With a satisfied smile, Rinka vanished back into the fitting room.

The next outfit was a bold red dress—knee-length, with a slightly fitted design that accentuated her mature elegance. She looked different from the usual Rinka—there was an air of elegance, almost like a grown woman.

“How about this one? Is it too mature for me?”

As she spoke, Rinka’s lips curved into a subtly seductive smile. It was so unlike her usual self that I found myself at a loss for words.

“Uh… well… you look really great in this kind of mature outfit too. I think it suits you perfectly.”

Before I knew it, the words slipped right out of my mouth. Rinka widened her eyes slightly in surprise before breaking into a gentle smile.

“Fufu, that’s quite the compliment. Maybe I should go with this one?”

“Yeah, I think that would be a good choice.”

“Alright, then I’ll take this one.”

With a pleased expression, she disappeared into the fitting room once again. Watching her go, I let out a quiet sigh of relief.

It was great that we finally decided, but at some point, a small crowd had gathered around us.

Even just trying on clothes was enough to turn heads… As expected from our school’s number one princess.