Lonely Me And The Lonely Caring Goddess - Chapter 282: Eternity.

Eternity.

The selection process went far more smoothly than I had anticipated, and before long, we had reached the final stage: making the ultimate decision.

I’d expected to agonize over it for much longer, but each time I wavered, Suzuhara-san offered precise, insightful advice. That was how we’d managed to progress this far without too much hesitation.

He also mentioned that my own clear vision of what I truly wanted had played a significant part.

After all, there was only one thing I prioritized above everything else for this ring.

It had to be something Sara-san could wear every day without it ever getting in the way.

Since it was, in the end, a ring tied to our engagement, I wanted her to keep it on always. Especially at school, where it would serve as a kind of talisman—to ward off other guys—so I especially hoped she’d wear it as part of her daily life. That was the key consideration.

In other words, the essential points were these:

It needed to be a ring that wouldn’t feel burdensome to Sara-san even if worn constantly, allowing her to go about her everyday life unhindered.

More specifically, it shouldn’t have an overly ornate design that might catch or interfere with movement during school or ordinary activities. It had to be durable against scratches and discoloration, and as comfortable as possible to wear.

Once those conditions were met, the rest came down to my instincts.

Incidentally, regarding school rules about wearing rings—at least for ones with special meaning, like an engagement, it seemed to be allowed.

I only knew that because Nishikawa-san apparently had an acquaintance who was an alumnus of our school and had worn an engagement ring while still a student.

Though in that case, their partner had been an adult… So someone my age thinking along these lines really was pretty unusual, wasn’t it?

“Takanashi-sama, how does this one strike you?”

“Hmm…”

Suzuhara-san listened carefully to my wishes and continued to provide spot-on guidance.

For the material, platinum—neither too hard nor prone to deterioration. For the shape, to prioritize comfort, a style called “inner rounded” where the inside of the band curved gently. We narrowed the candidates down with those as the foundation.

I tried a few on for comparison myself, and indeed, the rounded ones felt better. They were also easier to put on and take off.

And finally, the last requirement: a ring where the gemstones didn’t protrude.

If the stones stuck out, there was always the risk of them catching on something. If that interfered with daily tasks, it would defeat the whole purpose.

The ring that survived all those conditions and made it to the final shortlist was this one—an eternity ring.

Of course it satisfied every criterion I’d set, but more than anything, its name and design felt absolutely perfect.

Eternity… “forever.”

It might sound corny, but for expressing my feelings toward Sara-san, no name could be more fitting.

And the design.

This eternity ring had numerous small gemstones embedded all around the band.

It looked practical enough for everyday wear without being obstructive, yet still retained an elegant splendor. It was, quite simply, the ideal ring I’d been searching for.

There was one more thing—perhaps a bit personal, more my own impression…

Rather than a ring that flaunted its gems boldly for ostentatious luxury, this one held its beauty quietly within—a subtle, understated design.

Somehow, that felt perfectly suited to Sara-san in my mind.

Others might only see her outward appearance, but I alone knew the real Sara-san inside. I loved the real her.

I couldn’t quite put it into words, but for me, this ring felt exactly right.

So…

“I’ve decided. This is the one I want.”

The ring I was looking at now was called a half-eternity. It used a setting style—rail-set, I think?—that prevented snagging and apparently offered excellent durability as well.

Naturally, since it was “half,” there existed a grander version: the full eternity, with gems encircling the entire band in lavish splendor.

The price was understandably astronomical…

But that was fine. This time, I’d give her the half-eternity, and for the proper engagement ring in the future, I’d present a full one. That would fit perfectly with the concept behind this gift.

Once I thought of it that way, I couldn’t imagine choosing anything else.

No—this was the only one!!

“I see… Takanashi-sama, if I may ask—there were some well-known brand pieces among the candidates. Are you certain this is the one you wish to choose?”

“Eh? Ah, yes. That’s right. I hadn’t really thought about brands, but I’ve already decided—this is the one.”

Now that he mentioned it, perhaps I should have considered the brand.

But honestly, I was drawn to the ring itself more than any label. This design that balanced elegance and restraint felt absolutely perfect for Sara-san.

There might be differences in quality, of course, but this time I’d decided to trust my instincts above all. Brands and prestige could wait for the future.

Besides… if our positions were reversed, I’d be overjoyed with anything Sara-san chose for me. So surely she’d feel the same. No—definitely!

“…It is true that the reassurance of a famous brand is often a powerful factor in decision-making. Especially for rings tied to engagement and marriage, it would be entirely natural to consider such prestige. Yet you, Takanashi-sama, have chosen purely based on your own feelings and your devotion to Satsukawa-sama?”

“…When you put it that way, it sounds a little grand.”

“Not at all. In fact, while this ring comes from a lesser-known brand, I can recommend it with complete confidence in its quality.”

“Really? Considering the price, I’d assumed the quality might be lower…”

I hadn’t chosen it for the price, but the old saying “you get what you pay for” exists for a reason. A lower price usually means compromises somewhere.

“Of course, the idea that lower price equals lower quality is not wrong. Fine things do tend to cost more. However, there are certainly items of excellent quality that remain affordable simply because they lack famous branding. There are other factors too—advertising costs, for instance—but I’ll spare you the details. In short, the ring you have chosen falls into that category.”

That made sense.

If name recognition itself added value, it was easy to see why brands inflated their prices accordingly. Plenty of people loved boasting, “This is from such-and-such brand!”

But purely on quality, there was no reason a non-brand piece couldn’t rival the big names. In fact, up-and-coming makers aiming precisely for that niche would be expected.

“And this particular ring is one I personally source directly from the manufacturer after visiting their workshop. I even had a small say in its production. In a way, this eternity ring you’ve chosen could almost be called a store original. That is how we are able to offer such high quality at a restrained price.”

So by cutting out middlemen and creating something semi-original, they kept costs down.

But that was only possible because of Suzuhara-san’s discerning eye, knowledge, and experience—he’d unearthed a true gem.

High quality at a low price. I was genuinely grateful.

“Yet for you to choose this ring, Takanashi-sama… I must say, I am deeply moved.”

“Is that so?”

“Yes. Given your requirements this time, price was inevitably a consideration. Of course we carry no low-quality items, but when guiding you, the options naturally narrowed to either lower-tier pieces from major brands or my personal recommendations outside those brands. I had intended to gently steer you if you seemed uncertain, but…”

“I picked it first?”

“Precisely. And that means you recognized and trusted my judgment. Naturally, I am profoundly honored.”

It felt a touch exaggerated, but I could understand being happy when someone chose the piece you believed in most—especially when I’d gone straight for it among all these famous brands.

“But I’m not just flattering you—I genuinely love this ring. So I’ll buy it.”

“Thank you most sincerely. I am certain Satsukawa-sama will be delighted. Earlier we spoke of brands, but from this moment on, this ring carries the supreme added value of being the one you, Takanashi-sama, chose solely for her.”

Oh… that was beautifully said.

No wonder he was a professional among professionals—his sales talk was genuinely moving.

“Then allow me to explain the details. Please bear with me a little longer.”

“Yes.”

Good… whatever else, I’d achieved my goal.

Finding such an incredible treasure—I truly owed Nishikawa-san for bringing me here!

***

When finalizing the details, on Suzuhara-san’s recommendation, we decided to add an engraving on the inside of the band. It felt like a classic choice, and I wanted a clear, lasting record of this milestone. So we settled on the date of the school festival and our initials—mine and Sara-san’s.

After that came explanations about sizing adjustments and pickup date… and then, the box for the ring.

The classic ritual I’d seen on TV—opening the box right in front of her to reveal the ring.

Suzuhara-san was suggesting I do exactly that.

“Surveys show it is quite popular among women. Moreover, since you plan to do it on stage, the impact on those watching would be considerable. I highly recommend it.”

“I-I see… So I’ll be the one doing that.”

“Yes, exactly that.”

So… I’d be doing that.

Considering my other goal, maximum impact was definitely preferable. Above all, if it would make Sara-san happy, I had no choice but to do it.

“G-Got it. I’ll do my best.”

“That’s the spirit. Most importantly, the engagement itself is already settled, so there is no need for unnecessary nerves. Think of it rather as a performance to liven up the moment.”

Since there was zero chance Sara-san would turn me down, I didn’t need to worry about rejection.

Still, with so many eyes on us, nerves were inevitable either way…

***

My business concluded without any budget issues. Though it was easy to guess Suzuhara-san had extended considerable service.

Even for a ready-made, non-brand piece, the price felt almost too good to be true… But since I was honestly grateful, I’d quietly accept the kindness.

“After all, it was a direct introduction from Nishikawa-san, and today is, in a sense, the commemorative day of your visit, Takanashi-sama. I hope we may continue to serve you in the future. And if you are pleased this time, I would gladly recommend a custom piece down the line.”

The commemorative day of my visit… what was that supposed to mean?

Custom-made, though…

Of course I was interested, but even a quick glance at the materials earlier hinted at a substantial price tag.

Still, there’s that famous saying—“an engagement ring should cost three months’ salary.” If everyone accepted that as normal, it wasn’t strange.

Then someday, I’d work hard and buy one. For Sara-san’s sake, I could push myself as much as needed!

And for the true engagement ring, a custom full-eternity… That was decided. I swore it to myself!!

“Well then, since Takanashi-san’s ring appears to be settled, shall we move on to my brooch?”

“Certainly.”

With my turn finished, Nishikawa-san took over for her consultation.

While she did, the staff prepared tea for us in the lounge area as a brief rest.

But there was one more thing I wanted to look at.

“Huh? Didn’t you already finish shopping?”

As I stood gazing into a showcase, Hayato called out from behind.

I was currently looking at the brooch section. When I’d heard Nishikawa-san ordering a brooch, an idea had struck me…

I wanted to give something to Mayumi-san as well, as thanks for everything.

A ring was obviously out of the question, but a brooch might be perfect.

The problem was…

“Takanashi-sama, are you looking for something in particular?”

A female staff member approached as I stood pondering in front of the display. Like Suzuhara-san, her manners and demeanor were so refined they almost made me feel I was the one who should be nervous.

“Ah, no… I was thinking of getting something for Mayumi-sa— I mean, Sara-san’s mother…”

“So… that would be Madam Satsukawa?”

“Um, yes, I suppose so?”

“My, my…”

Hmm?

I hadn’t meant to say anything strange, but she seemed faintly surprised.

Was giving a gift to Sara-san’s mother really that odd?

“Oh, no, it is not strange at all. Once you marry the young lady, she will naturally become your mother-in-law.”

Right, of course—nothing unusual about it.

I at least understood that “mother” here meant mother-in-law. I wouldn’t misunderstand that anymore.

“My deepest apologies. I was terribly late with introductions. I am Masayo, the wife of Suzuhara, who assisted you earlier.”

“Ah, I see. Pleased to meet you— I’m Takanashi.”

So she was Suzuhara-san’s wife. That meant they ran the shop together as a couple. Maybe the other staff were family too?

“Thank you for your courtesy. My husband and I both look forward to serving you. Now, were you perhaps looking for a brooch?”

“Yes. But… my budget is a little tight right now.”

Even if cheaper than rings, it was still tough with my current finances. I could always give up and buy something from a general store, but that didn’t feel right for Mayumi-san…

“I see… Takanashi-sama, if I may make a suggestion—my daughter actually runs an accessory-making workshop. We have brooch-making kits available…”

“So I could make one myself quite affordably?”

“Yes. It would only cost materials, so it’s very reasonable. However, since it would be a simple handmade piece, the quality would reflect that. And considering it would be worn by Madam Satsukawa, I would normally hesitate to recommend it. But if it were a brooch made by you personally, Takanashi-sama… I believe she would be truly delighted.”

A handmade brooch…

If I may be a little full of myself, I was sure Mayumi-san would love it. And I’d never given Sara-san anything handmade either—this could be a perfect chance. Two birds with one stone. Or even…

But first.

“Could you tell me more about it?”

“Of course. I’ll fetch my daughter—please wait just a moment.”

The conversation had taken an unexpected turn, but this might actually work out nicely.

The issues were how long it would take to make and the cost of the workshop…

“Kazunari, that sounds fun—I’ll join you.”

“Hayato?”

“Yeah, count me in too.”

“Even Yuuji…?”

“If you’re giving Sara-san something this big and I just sat by doing nothing, Natsumi-senpai would call me pathetic.”

Hmm… That did sound exactly like something Natsumi-senpai would say. I could practically see her gleefully tearing into Yuuji.

Oh, right—speaking of Natsumi-senpai…

“Yuuji, should we still keep this from Nishikawa-san for now?”

“…Yeah, she said she’d tell Nishikawa-san herself. And that we absolutely must not interfere.”

I see… But contrary to her usual reliability, Natsumi-senpai could be surprisingly shy about romance.

Was she hesitant to tell Nishikawa-san out of embarrassment, or just plain bashfulness…

Or maybe Nishikawa-san would brea— No, better not think about that.

“Phew, sorry to keep you waiting. Did I miss something?”

“““—!?”””

Speak of the devil—Nishikawa-san was back. Faster than expected… and the timing was uncanny.

Good thing we hadn’t mentioned Natsumi-senpai’s name…

“N-No, Kazunari was just saying he wants to make a handmade brooch!”

“Yeah, yeah! There’s apparently an accessory-making class, so we were talking about joining in!!”

“B-But we were worried about your schedule, Nishikawa-san… What do you think!?”

“Ah, I see—that’s what this was about. Of course I’m fine with it… Oh, perhaps for Mayumi-san?”

Through our perfectly synchronized deflection, we somehow managed to steer the conversation away.

That had been close…

“How did you know?”

“Fufu, didn’t Mayumi-san mysteriously tell me her ring size the other day? A ring was out of the question, but knowing you, Takanashi-san…”

“Huh?”

Nishikawa-san looked at me with a slightly mischievous smile.

I wasn’t entirely sure how she’d pieced it together from the flow of conversation… but for now, it was fine.

If she said time wasn’t an issue, I’d gladly take her up on it.

“Then shall I join as well?”

“Really?”

“Yes. Since it’s a rare chance, I think I’ll make presents for my parents too. To be perfectly honest, giving them yet another brand-name item wouldn’t mean much at this point. They’d appreciate it, of course, but something handmade would carry entirely different value.”

“That’s true.”

When someone already has everything, a heartfelt handmade gift—even an inexpensive one—can mean far more. Especially if it comes from someone dear.

“I’ve never made accessories before, so I’m actually a little excited.”

I’d never done it either, but if it was a kit, we’d just follow the instructions… It should turn out all right.

I hope Sara-san and the others will like them…