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Chapter 30: The Jewel of Promise
The guard at the entrance noticed them immediately. With a respectful bow, he opened the elegant glass door and greeted warmly,
"Welcome to Ayanokoji Jewellery."
Manabu and Suzune Horikita stepped inside together. The gentle chime of the entrance bell echoed through the hall. The moment they entered, Suzune's eyes widened slightly.
This place is so beautiful… she thought.
The interior shimmered with quiet luxury. Crystal chandeliers illuminated rows of velvet-lined display cases filled with rings, necklaces, and gemstones that sparkled under the light like captured stars. The faint scent of lavender filled the air, creating a calm yet sophisticated atmosphere.
A middle-aged woman wearing a neat black suit approached them with a professional yet warm smile. "Good afternoon, and welcome. How may I assist you today?"
Suzune straightened slightly, answering politely, "Hello there. We're looking for a ring—for my future sister-in-law."
The woman's smile grew brighter. "Of course, Miss Horikita. Please, follow me."
She led them through the main showroom into a quieter, more elegant section—the VIP area. Plush seats, soft lighting, and private displays made it clear that this space was meant for the most valued clients.
Once they sat down, the woman tapped on her tablet and looked back up with a knowing smile.
"I see this is your first time visiting us, but according to our system, you're directly connected to Mr. Ayanokoji, the sole owner of this establishment. It also shows you have a business partnership with him. Because of that, you are automatically recognized as VIP clients."
Suzune blinked in surprise for a moment before nodding gracefully. "I see. That explains the special treatment."
Manabu raised an eyebrow slightly but didn't comment. He had long learned that Ayanokoji's reach and influence extended into places one would never expect.
The saleswoman continued politely, "May I know the ring size, the type of stone you prefer, and whether you'd like to engrave a message on it? We can also add a special stone that represents your wish or a personal sentiment."
Suzune smiled faintly. "We don't have a particular stone in mind."
Manabu took out his phone and showed a picture of Akane Tachibana, her hand visible in the image.
"This is her," he said softly.
The saleswoman leaned closer to get a better look. Her eyes softened. "She's beautiful. I can already imagine how a ring would look on her finger."
Suzune smiled slightly, teasing, "We honestly have no idea what kind of ring would suit her. That's why we came to the professionals."
The woman chuckled lightly, bowing her head. "As you wish. Allow me to bring out a few designs that would complement her hand shape and aura. Please, make yourselves comfortable."
As the woman stepped away to the display counter, Suzune leaned toward her brother and whispered playfully, "She called Akane beautiful, Big Brother. You better choose wisely now, or she'll think you don't have an eye for elegance."
Manabu gave her a tired glance but couldn't hide the small smile tugging at his lips. "You really enjoy teasing me, don't you?"
Suzune shrugged innocently. "I'm just making sure you make the right impression."
Moments later, the saleswoman returned with a small velvet tray. Inside lay several exquisite rings—each one unique. Some had simple silver bands with delicate diamonds, others shimmered with rare stones of deep sapphire and soft rose quartz.
"These," she said gently, setting the tray before them, "are our top recommendations. Each of these designs complements the kind of warmth and confidence I see in Miss Tachibana's expression. This one," she pointed to a subtle platinum ring with a gentle curve, "symbolizes loyalty and unwavering support — perfect for a lifelong bond."
Suzune's gaze softened. "That does sound fitting for her."
Manabu looked at the ring carefully, his expression thoughtful. "Yes… something elegant and meaningful. That's just like Akane."
The saleswoman smiled. "Then perhaps we've already found the one."
Suzune looked at her brother and smirked. "Well, Big Brother… it seems fate works even in jewellery stores."
Manabu chuckled quietly, picking up the ring to inspect it under the light — the symbol of a promise he was finally ready to make.
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