The Central District’s commercial street was as bustling and lively as ever.
Aphrodite walked among the crowd, feeling a bit uneasy as she tugged at the edge of the hood she’d worn last time out with Bella, making sure her dazzling golden hair was completely hidden.
Even though Aphrodite knew she now bore the title of “Candidate Saintess,” making her a semi-public figure, having to go out like this, so carefully concealing herself every time, still made her grumble inwardly.
Is this “Candidate Saintess” really so famous that just going for a stroll means someone will recognize me?
But complaining was one thing—since Bella had given her strict instructions, Aphrodite obediently complied. After all, she didn’t want to be surrounded by onlookers either.
Ella quietly followed half a step behind her.
Soon, as they reached the front of a rather refined-looking clothing shop, Aphrodite stopped in her tracks.
Seeing Aphrodite pause, Ella took a timely step forward, bowed slightly, and asked in a gentle voice, “Lady Aphrodite, are you shopping for clothes for yourself?”
“Of course!” Aphrodite replied cheerfully, her eyes shining as she gazed at the section of sleepwear inside the shop.
Several sets of sleepwear hung there, all looking comfortable and soft—the “normal styles” she’d been longing for.
However, Ella’s voice sounded again.
“Lady Aphrodite, Lady Bella specifically instructed that all your clothing must be chosen and purchased by her personally.” She paused and added, “Also, Lady Bella made it clear that if you insist on buying it yourself… please use your own Private Funds.”
“……” Aphrodite’s steps instantly froze, and the smile on her face stiffened.
Private Funds? Where would she get Private Funds from?!
Aphrodite wailed inwardly, a feeling bordering on absurdity washing over her.
She subconsciously patted her empty pocket, only to be struck by a harsh reality.
Even though she had the title of “Candidate Saintess,” and should, in theory, lack for nothing, all financial authority was tightly held in Bella’s hands!
When did Bella come up with this kind of rule?
This was outright Economic Sanction.
Aphrodite tried to struggle: “Um… What if I just secretly buy one? She probably wouldn’t notice, right?”
Ella bowed again. “I’m terribly sorry, Lady Aphrodite. Lady Bella specifically said that if any clothing appears in your wardrobe or on your person that was not purchased by her… she will hold me accountable and dismiss me.”
“How could she do this…” Aphrodite wilted, her shoulders slumping.
Bella was counting on her not being so selfish as to let Ella be dismissed.
Sigh, forget it, it’s just sleepwear… Cat ears it is, I’ll just keep wearing the cat ears, it’s only in my room anyway…
Aphrodite comforted herself dejectedly, forced to abandon the idea of buying new sleepwear.
“Fine, fine, then I won’t buy anything for myself. But I can still buy something for someone else, right? That shouldn’t violate Bella’s rules?”
Ella nodded slightly. “As long as it’s not for you to wear, it’s perfectly fine. The cost can come from the daily expense fund.”
Her tone also lightened, as if she was glad to be able to help.
“That’s good!” Aphrodite perked up again. “Ella, you have good taste—help me pick out some Girls’ Clothing.”
“Yes, my lady,” Ella replied, immediately displaying her professional side. “May I ask what type or style you’d prefer? Also, do you know the recipient’s approximate size?”
Size…?
Hearing this, Aphrodite was briefly stunned.
I’m doomed! I was so focused on going out, I completely forgot to ask what size Lia wears!
Aphrodite racked her brain, trying to recall Lia’s figure—she seemed a bit more petite than herself, but the exact measurements…
No idea at all!
She rubbed her temples in frustration.
“Style… Style doesn’t matter, as long as it’s simple and looks nice. As for the size…” Aphrodite gestured vaguely, “About… this tall, a little slimmer than me? Um… just pick a size that’s a bit loose if possible!”
After all, it’s better to buy a little big than too small—at least then it’s still wearable!
Ella seemed to sense her embarrassment, but didn’t pry. She merely replied respectfully, “Understood,” and turned to select clothes from the racks with practiced ease.
Before long, she returned with several neatly folded, comfortable, and elegantly simple outfits.
Aphrodite glanced over them and, seeing nothing wrong, let Ella make the purchase.
After buying the clothes, Aphrodite felt as if she’d accomplished something important and was in much lighter spirits.
On the way back, she “just happened” to pass by the dessert shop on the corner—the very one she’d visited with Bella last time.
The aroma of sweets wafted from within, unconsciously slowing Aphrodite’s steps.
Since I’m already here…
With this in mind, Aphrodite entered the dessert shop.
There weren’t many customers inside, and the atmosphere was quiet and elegant.
Soft lighting spilled over the light wooden tables and chairs, the air filled with the mingled scent of Butter, Cream, and Coffee.
In the display window, all sorts of cakes and pastries were arranged like works of art, their colors and sheen inviting.
Aphrodite glanced over the selection and quickly found the two cakes she’d tried and liked when she came here with Bella.
“Please pack these two for me.” She pointed to her favorites and addressed the shop assistant.
While the shop assistant deftly packed them into delicate boxes tied with ribbons and Ella paid, Aphrodite prepared to leave, thoroughly satisfied.
Just then, a crisp voice with a familiar undertone—rising ever so slightly in pitch—sounded from somewhere not far behind her.
“—Liar!”
That unique address, almost magical in its effect, instantly cut through the quiet murmur of conversation and froze Aphrodite in her tracks.
She hadn’t looked back, but already knew who it was—the only person who would call her that, and in that tone.
Aphrodite tensed a little, her grip tightening on the dessert bag.
Slowly, she turned toward the source of the voice, forcing the most natural expression she could manage onto her face.
Not far away stood a young girl, glaring at her, cheeks puffed out in indignation.
The girl wore a very pretty dress—a knee-length, milky white one.
The sleeves were trimmed with delicate lace, a thin pale pink ribbon cinched at her waist, perfectly outlining her slender figure, and tied at the side in a dainty, cute bow.
But what drew the eye most was her vibrant red hair, like a blaze of flame, shining especially bright under the shop’s lights.
Together with her slightly puffed cheeks and delicate features, she radiated a lively, spirited charm tinged with just a hint of willfulness.
Alice von Klein!
What is she doing here?!
And… even bundled up like this, how did she recognize me at a glance?
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