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Chapter 31: The Promise and the Gift
Manabu looked at the ring one last time under the light, its silver band gleaming softly, the inscription space perfectly placed. He nodded with quiet conviction.
"We'll take this one," he said firmly.
Suzune smiled, pleased by his choice. "It's beautiful. Can you add the engraving 'Akane Tachibana × Manabu Horikita'?" she asked politely.
The saleswoman's expression brightened. "Of course, Miss Horikita. That's a lovely choice. The '×' symbol represents two hearts united—it's subtle yet meaningful."
Suzune smiled faintly. "Thank you."
"Would you like it completed by a particular time?" the woman asked, making notes on her tablet.
Suzune nodded. "Yes, if possible, could it be ready before six?"
The woman chuckled softly, clearly impressed. "Since you're on our VIP list, it will be ready before four p.m. at the latest. We'll ensure it's perfect."
Suzune bowed her head lightly. "Thank you so much. That helps a lot."
After finalizing the payment and confirming the details, they left the store. The moment they stepped outside, sunlight spilled over the polished street, reflecting off the luxury store signs. The day suddenly felt lighter — full of quiet excitement and nervous anticipation.
Inside the car, Suzune immediately took a photo of the ring before it was sealed for engraving and sent it to their family group chat.
Within seconds, their mother replied:
Mom: It's beautiful! Excellent choice, you two. 💍✨
Suzune smiled. "Mom loves it."
Manabu exhaled in relief. "That's great."
He glanced at the time. "I'll drop you home now so you can start baking the cookies for Ayanokoji. You should have enough time before I need to pick up the ring."
Suzune nodded with a small smile. "I'll go myself to give them to Mr. Ayanokoji later. It's something I want to do personally."
Manabu frowned slightly. "Are you sure? You could have one of the staff deliver them instead."
Suzune shook her head. "No. It's better if I give them myself. He's helped us more than once—he deserves at least a genuine thank-you from me."
Manabu smiled faintly. "You really admire him, huh?"
Suzune looked out the window, her voice calm but sincere. "I respect him. He's different… he's someone who sees beyond appearances."
Manabu didn't reply, but he understood.
After a quiet drive, they arrived back home. Suzune stepped out, holding her bag close as the autumn breeze brushed through her hair. Before leaving, she leaned into the car window and said, "Big Brother, you should go to Dad and then get yourself a proper suit. You'll need something special for tonight."
Manabu raised an eyebrow. "Why a new suit? I already have plenty."
Suzune crossed her arms with a knowing smirk. "Because this isn't just any dinner. You're going to ask someone very special to be part of your life. Don't you think that moment deserves something new?"
Manabu sighed, but a hint of a smile appeared. "Fine, fine. I'll go. You sound just like Mom sometimes."
"That's because I'm usually right," Suzune replied teasingly before waving goodbye.
Manabu drove off toward their father's office, while Suzune entered the house. The familiar warmth of home greeted her—the faint scent of coffee and books, the sound of her mother humming softly in the kitchen.
"Welcome back, dear," her mother said, glancing up from a bowl of batter.
Suzune smiled. "Mom, I told Big Brother to buy a suit. And I'll need your help—I want to make cookies for Mr. Ayanokoji. As a thank-you gift."
Her mother's eyes softened immediately. "That's a wonderful idea, Suzune. Something handmade always carries more meaning. Let's make them together."
Suzune nodded. "Yes."
And so, the kitchen filled with a gentle rhythm — the soft sounds of mixing dough, the clinking of utensils, and the faint laughter between mother and daughter. The sweet aroma of butter and sugar slowly filled the air, carrying with it a warmth that Suzune hadn't felt in a long time.
She smiled to herself as she shaped the final cookie.
I hope he'll like them…
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