We finished our tour of the stalls at the Central Square and moved on. Spotting a general store along the way, I decided to step inside with Olivia-san.
The shop specialized in small interior decorations, and while simple, it had a refined, stylish atmosphere. It was a far cry from the general stores I usually frequented—those chaotic places that sold everything under the sun except food.
"What is the purpose of this object?" she asked.
"It’s a small interior decoration. You're meant to display it on a desk or a shelf."
"What effect does displaying it produce?"
"E-Effect? Well, it... adds a bit of color to the room, I suppose."
"Does the addition of color result in some kind of tangible influence?"
"It helps you feel more positive, or just makes the atmosphere better..."
"I see. So it is an item that acts upon the mind."
She wasn't exactly wrong, but I had the feeling she was mistaking it for a magic tool. Watching Olivia-san study the various trinkets with such genuine interest was strangely heartwarming.
"Since we're here, why don't you pick something out?" I suggested.
Since she had been sending me letters, she must have a desk of some sort. It seemed like a good place for a little ornament.
"No," she replied. "My mind is in perfect health, so such a thing is unnecessary."
"It's not like you're forbidden from having one, right?"
"That is correct."
"Then I'll pick one out."
"Very well."
She looked a bit puzzled for a moment, perhaps assuming I was buying something for myself, and gave a small nod of understanding.
I chose a crystal-like palm-sized small interior decoration that seemed to suit her aura. Once we stepped away from the counter, I held it out to her.
"I'm sorry for picking it without asking, but please, take this."
"...Eh?"
"I know you said it wasn't necessary, but your opinion might change once you actually see it in your room. Just give it a try."
"...Y-Yes."
She looked completely caught off guard, but when I gently insisted, she accepted it. She stared at the crystal in her palms, a look of bewilderment on her face.
"...Thank you very much," she said softly.
She was clearly confused, but she didn't seem to mind the gift. Through my Sympathy Magic, I could feel a faint, unmistakable flicker of joy.
We left the shop and started walking. I didn't want us to just wander aimlessly, so I looked for a proper destination.
"Olivia-san, are there any famous landmarks around here?"
"In this vicinity, there is a park with a large lake nearby. According to the sightseeing materials, it is well-known for its rowboats."
"Rowboats? That sounds like it must be a pretty big park. It could be fun—want to go check it out?"
"I shall follow your lead, Kaito-sama."
Even though she had never actually been there, Olivia-san seemed to have every detail from her research memorized. She rattled off the information without a hitch.
I didn't have much experience with rowboats myself, but it sounded like a good time. A famous lake usually meant a great view, which I was looking forward to.
We followed her directions and soon arrived at the park. It was massive—I could tell the moment we stepped through the entrance. A large map nearby confirmed that half the area was a lake where visitors could rent boats.
We took a leisurely stroll through the park until we reached the rental dock. After paying the fee and being led to our vessel, I found a rowboat that looked exactly like the ones back home, complete with a pair of wooden oars.
Since we would be sitting face-to-face, I climbed in first. But as I reached for the oars to start rowing, Olivia-san spoke up in a flustered tone.
"Wait, please! I cannot permit Kaito-sama to perform such menial labor... I shall be the one to row."
"No, no, I'll do it. Honestly, I've kind of been wanting to try it myself."
"Ugh... I-If that is the case... we shall switch halfway through."
I had a feeling that swapping seats in the middle of a lake in a boat this size would be a recipe for disaster. But for now, since she had reluctantly agreed, I took the oars and set out.
Rowing was a bit heavier than I had imagined, but it wasn't so hard that I couldn't relax and enjoy the scenery.
"The view is beautiful, and the breeze feels great out here."
"...Um, do you not think it is time to switch? Are you not exhausted, Kaito-sama?"
"I'm fine, really. Don't worry about me, Olivia-san. Just enjoy the view."
She was practically vibrating with anxiety. She clearly hated the idea of me doing the "work" for her, but I had no intention of letting her take over. I decided to just keep rowing and enjoy the moment.
Serious-senpai: "...This isn't just sightseeing, is it? It's a date! You gave her a sentimental gift, you’re riding a boat together... It's a full-blown date!"