The ring selection proceeded much more smoothly than I had anticipated; we had already reached the final decision stage.
I had expected to agonize over the choice, but Suzuhara-san provided precise advice at every turn. Thanks to him, I had managed to narrow it down without getting overwhelmed.
Another factor that helped was that I had a clear vision of what I wanted to find.
To begin with, I prioritized one specific thing for this ring.
I wanted to choose something that wouldn't interfere with Sara-san's daily movements, considering she would be wearing it every day.
Since this was an engagement-related ring, I naturally wanted her to keep it on. Especially at school, it would serve as an amulet—a "man-repeller"—so I particularly wanted it to be suitable for everyday use. I had to make my decision with that in mind.
In other words, the key requirement was…
A ring that wouldn't feel like a nuisance to Sara-san as she went about her daily life.
Specifically, it shouldn't have a gaudy, protruding design that would catch on things during her activities, schoolwork included. It also needed to be resistant to scratches and discoloration, and above all, it had to be comfortable.
With those boxes checked, the rest would come down to my intuition.
By the way, regarding the school rules on jewelry, it seemed that rings were permitted if there was a special reason, such as an engagement.
I knew this because an acquaintance of Nishikawa-san was an alumna of our school who had actually worn an engagement ring while attending.
However, her partner had been an adult at the time… considering I was thinking about this at my age, I really was an outlier.
"Takanashi-sama, what are your thoughts on this one?"
"Let’s see…"
Suzuhara-san offered one precise suggestion after another as he listened to my requests.
We decided on platinum for the material, as it was durable and resistant to wear. For the shape, we prioritized a Comfort Fit, where the inner side of the band was rounded to feel natural against the finger. Using that as our foundation, we began filtering through the candidates.
I tried a few on myself to compare, and the rounded interior definitely felt better. It was also much easier to slide on and off.
Then there was the final condition: a ring where the gemstones were not set in a way that they protruded.
If the gems stuck out, there was always a chance they would snag on something. It would be putting the cart before the horse if the ring interfered with her handiwork.
The rings that survived these criteria to reach the final selection were a type called an Eternity Ring.
Not only did it meet every single requirement I had, but the name and craftsmanship were also excellent.
Eternity… it might sound cheesy, but the meaning—forever—was the perfect fit for my feelings toward Sara-san.
And then there was the design itself.
This eternity style featured multiple gemstones embedded directly into the band.
It looked like it would never get in the way of her daily tasks, and it struck a perfect balance between elegance and practicality. It was exactly what I had envisioned.
Also… this might just be my personal take on it…
But rather than a ring that shouted for attention with a loud, flashy display of wealth, I preferred a subtle design that contained its charm within.
To me, that felt more like Sara-san.
Others only saw her outer perfection, but I was the only one who knew her inner self—the "real Sara." And I loved that "real Sara."
I couldn't quite put it into words, but choosing this ring felt right.
"I’ve decided. I want this one."
The one I was pointing to was a Half Eternity. It used a Channel Setting, which meant the stones were secured between two parallel walls of metal, preventing them from catching on things. It was also supposed to be very durable.
Naturally, being a "Half," there was a superior version called a Full Eternity, which was an ultra-luxurious piece with stones encircling the entire band.
The price for those was staggering…
But if that was the case, I could give her the Half now and make the formal engagement ring a Full Eternity in the future. Wouldn't that fit the concept perfectly?
The more I thought about it, the more I felt there was no other choice.
In fact, it had to be this!
"I see… Takanashi-sama, if I may ask one thing. We had several famous brands among our candidates; are you certain you are satisfied with this one?"
"Eh? Ah, yes. I hadn't really thought about the name, but I’ve decided that I like this one best."
He had a point. Now that he mentioned it, I realized most people might care about the brand.
But honestly, I liked the ring itself more than any label. This design, which managed to be both glamorous and modest, was a perfect match for Sara-san.
There might be a difference in quality, but I had resolved to trust my intuition today. I didn't care about brands or titles—if I were to worry about those, it could wait for the future.
Besides… if the roles were reversed, I would be happy with anything Sara-san chose for me. So I was sure she would feel the same way. No, I was certain of it!
"…Generally speaking, the security offered by a famous brand is a significant factor in one's judgment. Especially for an engagement or wedding ring, it is only natural to consider the prestige of a brand. Yet, you chose based strictly on your own heart and your feelings for Satsukawa-sama, didn't you?"
"When you put it like that, it sounds a bit dramatic."
"Not at all. In truth, while this brand is relatively minor, I can recommend its quality with absolute confidence."
"Is that so? For how good it is, the price seemed… I actually wondered if the quality was lower because it was so affordable."
I hadn't chosen based on price, but "you get what you pay for" is a rule for a reason. If something is cheap, there is usually a catch.
"Of course, the idea that low price implies low quality is not entirely wrong. Quality usually commands a premium. However, there are indeed products whose prices remain low simply because they lack a famous brand name, despite being well-made. There are other factors, such as advertising costs, but I shall omit the details. At any rate, the ring you selected is exactly that type of product."
That made sense.
If you consider a brand name as "added value," it’s easy to see how labels drive up prices. There are plenty of people who just want to brag about where their jewelry came from.
But in terms of pure quality, it wasn't strange to think a non-brand item could compete. If anything, it made sense that emerging companies would strive for that level of craftsmanship to make a name for themselves.
"Furthermore, I personally travel to the manufacturer to procure these items directly. In fact, I have some influence over the production process myself; in a way, the eternity ring you chose is a shop original. That is why we can offer such high quality at this price."
So, because he kept procurement costs low and it was essentially an original product, he could offer it for less.
But that also meant it was a hidden gem that could only be found thanks to Suzuhara-san's "eye," knowledge, and experience.
High quality at a low price—I was honestly grateful.
"Still, for Takanashi-sama to pick this particular ring… I am, quite frankly, deeply moved."
"You are?"
"Yes. Given your request, price was an unavoidable factor. While this shop does not stock low-quality goods, I had intended to offer you a choice between a lower-tier brand-name item or one of my personal recommendations from a non-brand source. I was prepared to give you a nudge if you were unsure, but…"
"I picked it myself?"
"Exactly. It means you recognized and trusted my eye for quality. Naturally, as a jeweler, that brings me immense joy."
I thought he was being a bit hyperbolic, but I could understand the feeling of being happy when someone chooses a piece you take pride in. Especially since I had picked it out almost immediately from among all the big names.
"Well, I really do like it, no flattery intended. I'll buy this ring."
"Thank you very much. I am certain that Satsukawa-sama will be delighted. As we discussed, this ring has now been endowed with the most precious added value of all—the fact that Takanashi-sama chose it while thinking only of her."
Wow… he was good.
As expected of a top-tier professional, his sales talk was genuinely impressive.
"Well then, let’s go over the finer details. Please bear with me a little longer."
"Yes, sir."
I was relieved. Regardless of how it happened, I had achieved my goal.
I found a real treasure, and I owed a huge thank you to Nishikawa-san for bringing me here!
As we finalized the details, Suzuhara-san suggested having an engraving on the inside of the band. It was a classic touch, and I liked the idea of leaving a clear record of the occasion. I asked for the date of the school festival and our initials to be inscribed.
After that, he explained the size adjustments and the pickup date, and then… the matter of the ring box.
I’d seen it on TV—"that" classic ceremony where you flip the box open to present the ring.
Suzuhara-san was insisting I do exactly that.
"Our surveys show that a significant majority of women favor this gesture. Moreover, since you will be on stage, I highly recommend it for the maximum impact on the audience."
"I-I see… So I’m really doing 'that'?"
"Yes. 'That.'"
So I was going through with it…
Well, considering my other objective, a maximum impact was exactly what I needed. More importantly, if it would make Sara-san happy, the option of not doing it didn't even exist.
"A-Alright. I'll do my best."
"Yes, that’s the spirit. Though, since the engagement itself is already a settled matter, there is no need for undue nerves. Think of it more as a performance to liven up the event."
Since there was zero chance of Sara-san turning me down, I didn't need to be nervous about the result.
However, I was still going to be the center of attention, so there was no way I wouldn't be shaking in my boots either way…
My part was finished, and the cost had miraculously stayed within my budget. It wasn't hard to guess that Suzuhara-san had given me a massive discount.
Even for a non-brand item, the price was so good it made me wonder if it was actually okay… but it was a huge help, so I decided to accept the kindness graciously.
"Since you were introduced personally by Nishikawa-sama—and more importantly, today marks the Store Visit Anniversary for Takanashi-sama—I am happy to provide this service. I look forward to your continued patronage. If you are satisfied with our work, perhaps you will consider a custom-made piece in the future."
My "Store Visit Anniversary"? What was that even supposed to mean?
Well, regardless, a custom-made ring, huh?
I was interested, but a quick glance at the price list earlier told me it would be an astronomical amount.
Still, if the old saying about an engagement ring costing three months' salary was true, then it made sense for people to save up for something special.
In that case, I’d work my tail off so I could afford it one day. For Sara-san’s sake, I could push myself as hard as necessary!
And for the formal engagement ring, I would give her a custom-made Full Eternity… it was a promise. I had made up my mind!!
"Well, since Takanashi-san's ring has been successfully settled, could we look at my brooch next?"
"Certainly."
With my business done, Nishikawa-san took my place for her consultation.
While she talked, the rest of us were directed to a lounge area where we were served tea for a quick break.
However, there was one more thing I wanted to check out.
"Oh? I thought you were done shopping."
Hayato called out to me from behind as I stood staring into one of the display cases.
I was currently looking at the brooch section. When I heard Nishikawa-san was ordering one, it sparked an idea.
I really wanted to give Mayumi-san a present as well, as a token of my daily gratitude.
A ring was obviously out of the question, but a brooch seemed like a good middle ground. That was the plan, anyway.
The problem was…
"Takanashi-sama, are you looking for something in particular?"
As I stood there agonizing, a female clerk approached me.
Like Suzuhara-san, her manner was so refined it almost made me feel underdressed.
"Ah, well, I wanted to get something for Mayumi-sa—I mean, for Sara-san’s Mother as well…"
"Would that be… Satsukawa-sama’s wife?"
"Yes, I suppose so."
"My, my…"
Hm?
I didn't think I’d said anything weird, but she seemed surprised.
Was it that strange for me to give a gift to Sara-san’s Mother?
"Ah, no, it isn't strange at all. Once you marry the young lady, she will naturally be your mother-in-law, after all."
Exactly. Nothing strange about it.
By the way, I fully understood that "Mother" in this context meant "Mother-in-law." I wouldn't make that mistake again.
"Please forgive my manners; I have yet to introduce myself. I am Masayo, the wife of Suzuhara, who assisted you earlier."
"Oh, I see. Nice to meet you. I’m Takanashi."
So she was Suzuhara-san’s wife. That meant they ran the shop as a family. I wondered if the other clerks were family members too.
"The pleasure is mine. My husband and I are at your service. Now, you were looking for a brooch?"
"Yeah. But honestly, my budget is a little tight…"
Even if they were cheaper than rings, they were still beyond my current pocket money. I could give up and go to a general goods store, but that didn't feel right for someone like Mayumi-san.
"I see… Takanashi-sama, might I make a suggestion? My daughter actually runs a DIY Accessory Class. We have crafting kits for brooches as well…"
"Wait, so I can make one myself?"
"Yes. It would only cost you the price of materials, making it quite affordable. However, it is a simple handmade item, so the quality will be reflective of that. Normally, I wouldn't recommend such a thing for someone of Satsukawa-sama's wife's standing. However, I believe she would be delighted precisely because the brooch was made by Takanashi-sama…"
A homemade brooch…
If I were to be a bit arrogant, I did think Mayumi-san would probably appreciate the gesture. Besides, I had never given Sara-san anything handmade before, so this was a good chance to make two. No, if possible…
But first things first.
"Could you tell me a bit more about it?"
"Of course. I’ll go get my daughter. Please wait a moment."
The conversation had taken an unexpected turn, but this might actually work out.
The main concerns were the time it would take to finish and the cost of the class.
"Issei, that sounds like fun. I’ll join you."
"Hayato?"
"True. I might as well jump in since we’re here."
"Yuji too…?"
"If you're giving Satsukawa-san such a massive gift and I just sit here with a 'not my problem' look, I feel like I'll be branded a deadbeat."
Hmm… that sounded exactly like something Natsumi-senpai would say. I could practically see her joyfully tearing into Yuji.
Oh, that reminded me. Speaking of Natsumi-senpai…
"Yuji, is it still better not to say anything to Nishikawa-san?"
"…Yeah. She told me she’d tell Nishikawa-san herself. She specifically told me not to do anything unnecessary."
I see… but Natsumi-senpai, despite her usual confidence, tended to be shy about romantic matters.
I wondered if she hadn't told Nishikawa-san because she was embarrassed, or if it was just awkward.
Or maybe because Nishikawa-san would bre—no, let's not go there.
"Phew, sorry to keep you waiting. Was there something about me?"
""" !!! """
Speak of the devil. Nishikawa-san was back already. That was fast… and the timing was way too good.
It was a lucky break that I hadn't actually said Natsumi-senpai’s name.
"N-No! We were just talking about how Issei wants to make a homemade brooch!"
"Exactly! We heard about the accessory class and figured we’d all join in!"
"B-But we weren't sure if you had the time, Nishikawa-san! What do you think!?"
Through a Trinity Jet Stream Diversion, we managed to steer the conversation away from the danger zone.
That was a close call… but anyway.
"I see. So that’s what you were discussing. Of course, I don't mind staying, but… ah, is it for Mayumi-san?"
"How did you know?"
"Hehe. Mayumi-san did mention that she'd given you her ring size for some reason, didn't she? A ring would be out of the question, but Takanashi-san, you are exactly the type of person who would think of this."
"Huh?"
Nishikawa-san gave me a slightly mischievous smile.
I didn't quite follow how she had connected those dots, but it didn't matter for now.
Since she said the time was fine, I would take her up on the offer.
"In that case, I shall participate as well."
"Are you sure?"
"Yes. It’s a good opportunity, so I think I’ll try making presents for my parents. To be perfectly honest, another brand-name item wouldn't mean much to my father or mother at this point. They would be pleased, of course, but the value of something handmade would be on an entirely different level."
"That makes sense."
For people who were constantly surrounded by luxury, a simple, heartfelt, handmade item might actually be more meaningful. Especially if it came from someone they cared about.
"I’ve never made accessories before, so I’m looking forward to it."
I’d never done it either, but since it was a kit, I assumed I’d be fine as long as I followed the instructions. It should work out.
I just hoped Sara-san and the others would like them.