"Missus! Let me buy another sack of lemons, please!"
"Ohh! And what does this one do?"
"Hey, are you going home late again? Your wife is really gonna kill you."
Chatter here, chatter there, chatter everywhere. The whole city was abuzz as the sun started to sink down the horizon. There were only noises and voices in the air as the people passed by the streets, horses and carriages running along them.
Such a beautiful city, and there, one could find such a beautifully idiotic couple. The young man was walking with a bright smile on his face and confidence as he walked down the streets, stopping by some stalls and buying some sweet fruits thereafter.
Beside him was a glamorous young lady, now in soft and easy to move clothes, eyes wandering all over the place as she explored the city, guided by the bustling noise of downtown and lured in by the appetite-arousing scents from the stalls.
It was her first time in the city, or at least, she thinks it is. She still doesn't know much of the place but she already saw all sorts of curious and exciting things, sights she's never seen before and people she doesn't know names of.
"Oh! Old man! Looks like you're alright! I heard you got your leg injured!"
"Hahaha! Not even a broken leg can stop me, boy!"
"Then I'll visit you later! I'll bring some good ale!"
"That's what I'm talking about! You really do know me well!"
Of course, as timid as she was, she easily gets spooked by loud voices and gets surprised by the smallest of things, then clinging close to her man as if she was a chick seeking refuge, eyes filled with caution.
Though, just a quick pat from the young man and she quickly calms down, looking at him with a bright red face soon after. It already has been a couple hours since she woke up, but it seems like she still can't believe they are engaged.
"Now, why don't you stop clinging unto me for a while, and try these skewers. They're really good, so I'm sure you'll love them." ［Grey］
"Skewers...? I've already tried them at the village before..." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. I know, I know, but these ones are made from horned rabbit meat. I'm sure you've never had it before, right?" ［Grey］
"Horned rabbit... Th... Then... I'll happily indulge..." ［Yuna］
It has been quite some time since Grey heard it, but Yuna's semi-formal way of talking and the softness of her voice really was a treat to the ears. The loud and mischievous Yuna is also cute, but her shyness has a different charm to it.
The young lady sniffed the skewers a little bit before sinking her teeth onto the meat. The flavors quickly rushed to her mouth and her face soon bloomed to that of glee and excitement, soon digging in, one piece after another.
Before long, the whole skewer was finished and like a young child who just lost her balloon to the sky, there was a dejected look on Yuna's face when she realized that her skewer was all gone. Her ears were drooping down.
"Hahaha. Was it delicious?" ［Grey］
"Un... But... It disappeared so quickly... The skewer is gone..." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. You really worry about the strangest things. I didn't just buy one, you know? Here, have as many as you want." ［Grey］
"... Umm... Can I really...?" ［Yuna］
"Of course! It's our first date, after all. I want to spoil my fiancée as much as possible. Or... Is it that you don't want me to?" ［Grey］
Yuna was a little hesitant at first, but with Grey teasing her with his words, the young lady soon shook her head and took a couple more skewers for herself, cheeks redder than the tomatoes on the stall crates and eyes drifting away from the young man.
Of course, Grey was not immune to such cuteness either. He got embarrassed by his own cheeky lines, feeling the heat and anxiety of a first date. They've already done so several dozen times, but somehow, it feels somewhat fresh.
"Umm... Grey... Your words... You're so bold and sweet..." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. You're even bolder than me when we're alone, you know?" ［Grey］
"E-Eh?! Me?!" ［Yuna］
"Yeah. You don't give any warnings and just attack suddenly, sometimes stealing a kiss and sometimes hugging me from behind. Just the other day..." ［Grey］
Just like that, Grey detailed to the amnesiac Yuna her usual behaviors from how childish and clingy she is, her whimsical nature when they're alone, her bold and sometimes seductive advances, and everything else in between.
The more she heard about herself, the more the young lady's face got hotter and more flushed, eyes almost on the verge of tears from the embarrassment with her delicate hands covering her face, much to no avail.
Thankfully, it wasn't enough to make her pass out from embarrassment, otherwise, it would be a bit troublesome. Though, it did make her brain overload and overheat, a lot of steam going off as her eyes wandered into nothingness.
"Uuu... So embarrassing... The future me is too bold..." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. It's probably because I spoiled you too much, but well, it's not like I hate it. I also like that playful and mischievous side of you." ［Grey］
Or so Grey says, but no matter what side of Yuna, he always finds a way to make it adorable in his eyes. It was as if there was some sort of filter in his eyes which makes it so that Yuna will always be cute. He's just a fool for his lover.
"Umm... Grey... This might be a bit sudden, but... Between the future me... A-And the current me... Who... Who do you like better?" ［Yuna］
She might have lost her memories, but it seems like she still asks similar questions. Even her real current self asks whether Grey preferred her previous shy self, and now, her shy self is asking the same about her future self. Such great similarity.
"A-Ah! Sorry for asking such a troublesome question. Y-You don't really have to answer it. U-Umm, so please just forgetー" ［Yuna］
"It doesn't matter." ［Grey］
"Eh?" ［Yuna］
"Your personality, that is. Be it the current you, the future or the past, Yuna will always be Yuna, and I will love you all the same. I've already said it hundreds of times, and I will say it even more from now on." ［Grey］
Boldly declared the young man as he smiled at the young lady. His voice was calm and stern, ringing clearly in the young lady's ears. The latter could only hang her head down from Grey's answer, clearly trying to hide her flustered face.
However, Grey just wouldn't let her be. He raised her chin with his gentle touch, their eyes soon staring into one another. He moved his hands and drew his head closer to hers, leaning in for a kiss as he sealed the young lady's lips.
Their hearts were beating out of their chests, dancing to the rhythm of the streets, the busy voices slowly fading away as their kiss grew more passionate. It was only when they separated that they realized how red they were, a silver string bridging their lips.
"Uuu... That's so unfair... You're supposed to do that when we're alone..." ［Yuna］
"Don't worry. I already made a barrier to hide us from watchful eyes. It would also be embarrassing for me, after all." ［Grey］
"Then you shouldn't have done it... Dummy..." ［Yuna］
It seems like she still has that sharp tongue of her, calling Grey names as she shifted her eyes away. Even then, no matter how hard she tried to turn her head away and hide her embarrassment, it was still futile. Her bright red ears could still be seen.
Just like that, Grey and Yuna continued on with their date, eating all sorts of food and trying all sorts of new things, Yuna opening her mouth in awe every time they visited some great monuments and buildings, eyes filled with wonder.
Of course, they also tried horse riding, and unlike their real first date in Galderia, they successfully rode on the horses. Surprisingly, though Yuna forgot in her mind, her body still knows how to ride a horse, reining them perfectly.
But like any other couple would do, rather than riding in separate horses, Grey and Yuna rode on the same horse, Yuna sitting before Grey, her back leaning into his chest. Yuna was super embarrassed like usual.
After the stables, Grey and Yuna headed to other places and tried out even more snacks. While they were doing so, Yuna finally mustered her courage to ask the question which has been bugging her ever since they started their date.
"Right, Grey... I didn't ask about it, but why are we wearing disguises again? It's weird seeing you with red hair and golden eyes..." ［Yuna］
"Remember when I told you about the time we defeated Iblis?" ［Grey］
"Un.... The criminal organization that destroyed my home village, right?" ［Yuna］
"Yeah, that... Actually, we received a medal of honor because of that and the title of 'Hero' along with it. After that, things happened one after another and we received a few more medals from other countries... We're like celebrities..." ［Grey］
"We must be really famous in Galderia, then..." ［Yuna］
"No, rather than Galderia... We're famous throughout the continentー No, I think it's 2 continents now... It's actually a little embarrassing." ［Grey］
Said Grey calmly as he recounted all the troubles they had to go through ever since they became heroes. They even had to do some troublesome requests just because they were the only ones available. It's such a burdensome title.
As for Yuna. She still couldn't grasp what Grey was talking about. The figures of the continents were revolving around her head, some question marks dancing along it as she tried to understand Grey's words, all to no avail. It was too hard to imagine.
"Eh? Really?" ［Yuna］
"Yeah, we even got invited by some Royal and Imperial Families. Come to think of it... We're supposed to visit the Little Princess today." ［Grey］
"The Little Princess...? We know a princess...?" ［Yuna］
"She's the King of Alfrione's granddaughter. Well, she's gotten quite attached to us, so we play with her every now and then. Not that we can do that now... It would be troublesome to explain things to everyone." ［Grey］
Yuna was still unable to believe Grey's words, looking at him with clear eyes as he scratched his cheeks and laughed wryly. She doesn't know Grey as much as future Yuna does, but she could at least tell she wasn't lying.
"Well, other than that, there's a more selfish reason... This shy and innocent side of yours... I want to be the only one who knows it..." ［Grey］
What came after curiosity was yet another heart-throbbing attack from Grey. It took some time for it to click in Yuna's mind, but as soon as it did, her face instantly turned red for the hundredth time today, feeling really happy yet flustered at the same time.
"I... I see... Th... Thank you...?" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. What's with that? You really are cute, My Love." ［Grey］
"G-Grey is cool too... R-Really cool! And handsome too! I-I meant it!" ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. That makes me really happy then." ［Grey］
A sweet and pink atmosphere drifting in the air, Grey and Yuna proceeded with their little date, dropping by a handful of notable establishments from the best pastry shop in the city to the most luxurious restaurants there is.
Of course, while most of them were related to delicious foods, Grey also introduced some great places like the Guilds and the inns which hold a lot of memories for them and of course, Grey saved the best place for last.
It was none other than Esperanza which they worked so hard to build. It has been a few weeks since its Grand Opening, and now, it is working smoothly as expected, garnering a lot of customers from inside and outside the city.
Of course, as it was one of the most massive buildings in the city, Yuna couldn't help but be blown away by the sheer scale of it. It was the biggest structure she has ever seen and also the most impressive, filled with things she's never seen before.
"Waah～! So massive! And beautiful! Crowded too!" ［Yuna］
"Stick close to me now. We don't want you getting lost here." ［Grey］
"U-Unー Ah, c-can I hold your hand?!" ［Yuna］
"You don't need to ask beforehand, you know? We're already engaged. You can hold my hand anytime. Hahaha." ［Grey］
Hands linked tightly to one another and fingers intertwined just as close, Grey and Yuna headed inside the mall with smiles blooming on their faces. Smiles which only grew brighter as they headed inside the shopping mall.
The outside plaza and surrounding stalls were already amazing, but the inside was even more so. There were shops of all kinds, people from all races, floors one after another, and employees with bright and welcoming smiles on their faces.
There were also some strange machines and mechanisms like the elevators and escalators. She can't wait to ride them like an excited child, feeling as if she just stepped into a world of dreams and happiness.
But perhaps what she was most fascinated by was the atmosphere inside the mall. It was like a completely different world from the outside and smiles were blooming all over the place, friends and families enjoying their time together as much as they could.
"So this is a mall! A-Amazing! Do all cities have this, Grey?!" ［Yuna］
"You're too excited, My Dear." ［Grey］
"A-Ah, sorry... It's my first time in a mall, after all... For me, at least." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. I'm happy that you're enjoying yourself. And to answer your question, no... This mall is unique to Galderia. For now, at least." ［Grey］
Answered Grey softly as he drew Yuna closer to him. He then started to guide the young lady inside the mall, and though she didn't ask for it directly, they soon rode the elevators and escalators, the young lady's eyes sparkling brightly.
Each floor was filled with all sorts of different things, and sold all different kinds of items. There were also some souvenirs to be seen and some fluffy toys displayed here and there, kids happily pointing at them.
Well, it wasn't just the children who were excited, but the young lady as well. She also looked at the toys with curiosity and excitement in her eyes, clearly wanting to get a couple for herself, but doesn't want to trouble Grey over it.
"Do you want one?" ［Grey］
"A-Ah, no! I was just curious, they are really beautiful! They look so soft and fluffy too, so I think children will really like them." ［Yuna］
"They are made by great tailors and craftsmen, after all. Even the Little Princess likes the toys heer. She was so happy when we gave her one." ［Grey］
"The Little Princess... She must be a really lovely child..." ［Yuna］
"Yeah. One of the loveliest there is." ［Grey］
There were idle talks as they walked down the aisles, Grey telling Yuna stories about their little adventures and the latter smiling earnestly as her ears flapped in happiness and anticipation. It was like Grey was telling stories to a child.
And while they were talking ever so happily, Yuna's eyes continued to linger on the stuffed toys along the shelves. There were all sorts of colors, shapes, and designs, some holding hearts and some hugging one another.
She doesn't want to be selfish, but it was so clear in her eyes that she really wanted them. It reminded Grey of the first few weeks they went out the forest when Yuna didn't want to trouble her with her selfishness. He could only chuckle.
"Yuna, you don't have to hold yourself back... Please be honest with me, cause I'll kiss you if you lie... Do you want one or not?" ［Grey］
"I... I want one... Please..." ［Yuna］
"... Good girl." ［Grey］
It was a little embarrassing, but Yuna finally became honest with herself, wishing a little stuffed teddy bear for herself. She had a few toys back in her village before, but never one so fluffy and adorable. It feels a little childish, but she wants it.
Of course, Grey didn't get satisfied by buying just one either. He let Yuna choose which ones she wanted and whichever her eyes seemed attracted to, he bought them without a hesitation, much to Yuna's surprise.
The young lady tried to stop her, but all to no avail. Grey was resolute in buying her all the things she wanted and spoiling her as much as he could. It was a rare chance to dote on a shy Yuna, after all. It was a chance he couldn't miss.
"Grey... You really don't have to buy everything... Just... Just one is fine..." ［Yuna］
"No can do. You haven't gotten toys like these before, right? I just want to make new memories with you, so please don't deny me this opportunity. I'm your fiancé, aren't I? Let me do at least this much." ［Grey］
"Okay... But only this much, okay? Don't buy any more." ［Yuna］
She was all too easy, nodding her head timidly as Grey courted her with his sweet and sappy words. No matter whether it was the past or present Yuna, she blushes ever so easily, Grey finding her cuter with every passing moment.
"Alright. These are the last ones." ［Grey］
Or so he says, but in fact, that was a lie. After the toy store, Grey went on a rampage and bought Yuna all sorts of things as if there was no tomorrow, sweeping through the stores here and there and emptying a couple aisles.
Of course, Yuna tried to stop her with all her might, but her attempts were all but futile. Grey was unstoppable in his rampage, buying everything he thinks Yuna was interested in like a doting and idiotic father who is a fool for her daughter.
Before long, Grey and Yuna finally finished their date and after doing all sorts of fun, and sometimes frustrating, things, they then headed home with the brightest smiles on their faces, resting on their soft and cozy couch.
"Uuu... I told you to stop buying already..." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. Sorry, sorry, I just got a little too carried away." ［Grey］
"That wasn't just a little... Grey, you dummy..." ［Yuna］
Going on dates and exploring the city was fun, but there was nothing that could beat the warm and relaxing atmosphere of home, the two melting away their fatigue as they cuddled closely to one another, resting after a long day.
Yuna still doesn't understand what was happening and everything still feels like a dream. If there was one thing she learned, it was that she loved Grey more than she thought, her mind filled with only thoughts of him the whole day.
The same could also be said for Grey. It has been a long time since he had such a fun and interesting day, making a nice change of pace. He also got a few videos on the camera, unable to wait to show it to the real Yuna, teasing her, of course.
"Still... That shopping mall really was amazing... I didn't think I'd see something so beautiful in my life. Whoever made it must be a genius." ［Yuna］
"Hm? Haven't I told you yet?" ［Grey］
"Told me what?" ［Yuna］
"That mall... We built it, you know? We own it along with the Lord." ［Grey］
Grey revealed ever so casually, but the same couldn't be said for Yuna. Her eyes widened in shock and her mouth opened in agapeー or at least, Grey thought her reaction would be like that. But rather, she was surprisingly calm...
"You're not surprised?" ［Grey］
"Well, Grey already made plenty of surprises today, so it doesn't really shock me any more. If anything, I'm happy to have built something so beautiful." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. I guess you're right. We did all sorts of things today, afterー Hm?" ［Grey］
... Or maybe she was just sleepy. Before Grey could even finish his words, Yuna had already drifted into sleep, leaning her head against his shoulder. There were only soft breaths to be heard, her chest heaving up and down as snored.
It seems like she was exhausted by all the sudden events all throughout the day, now drifting into dreamland in Grey's embrace. The young man could only chuckle as he leaned in for a soft kiss on the forehead.
"Good night, My Love." ［Grey］
His soft words drifting in the air, Grey then carried Yuna gently upstairs and as soft as he could, he laid her down the fluffy bed. He covered her with a blanket and tucked her in tight, admiring her beautiful sleeping face before resting next to her.
Time passed by in the blink of an eye and the stars which reigned in the night sky soon hid themselves as the sun rose to chase the darkness away. A new morning has arrived, and Grey greeted it with a lengthy yawn.
Well, the morning sun wasn't the only thing which greeted him, as beside him, there was a young lady curling herself into a ball, ears red as can be. It seems like she's now back to her usual self, remembering everything yesterday crystal clear.
"You look beautiful today as well, My Dear." ［Grey］
"Shut up..." ［Yuna］
Yep, she clearly remembers them, and though it really was a fun experience, the embarrassment was second to none. She couldn't even fathom just how she was able to last though the day with her previous shy and timid attitude.
She was so frustrated, she started pounding Grey playfully with her closed soft fists, cheeks puffed up and tears forming in the corner of her blue eyes. She was clearly pouting, not wanting to see Grey's face for a quick moment.
"Have you calmed down, already?" ［Grey］
"Shut up... Dummy..." ［Yuna］
And when she was done letting out all her frustration, she then started cuddling with Grey, making sure she faced away from him so that he didn't see how red her face really was. Still, her ears betrayed her like they do all the time.
"Grey... We had a date yesterday, right?" ［Yuna］
"Hm? What about it?"" ［Grey］
"Answer me honestly. Between the me right now... And the meー" ［Yuna］
"Haah… Seriously, how many times do you have to ask this question?" ［Grey］
Yuna couldn't even finish her words, when Grey suddenly leaned in for a kiss. He made sure to seal the anxious mouth of hers and fill it with his warmth, holding her closer all the while as they shared a passionate kiss.
Grey knew that it was only natural to be anxious while in love, but sometimes, it was just so bothersome to hear. He doesn't want Yuna to doubt him any longer, sealing the deal with a kiss and clearing away any and all her questions.
"Does that answer your question?" ［Grey］
There was no response from the young lady, only a timid nod as if she had reverted to her old self. Her face was red and her eyes contained hints of passion, breathing at irregular intervals. Her heart was melting in the heat.
"Another one... I want another one..." ［Yuna］
"... Gladly..." ［Grey］
CHAPTER 488 END