Chapter 264 I'm at a jewelry store?
(POV: Lumiere)
After receiving detailed directions from Ruri, we finally arrived at the luxurious jewelry store belonging to Baron Josip Grumer Goldfield, who also happened to be Ruri's beloved uncle. Stepping down from the carriage, Kennedy gracefully made his way to the right side, opening the door as Anastasia emerged. His courteous gesture was followed by a respectful nod, acknowledging her presence. With the same elegance, he moved to the opposite side of the carriage, repeating the process as Ruri stepped out into the late morning sun.
Standing before the jewelry store, I was already calculating how much I'd spend.
Determining the worth of a jewelry store was easy as pie.
First off, let's talk location.
Expensive jewelry stores tend to shy away from crowded areas. They prefer the peace and quiet of more secluded spots, where they can attract the attention of the wealthy. After all, only a small percentage of the population can afford those dazzling gems.
Now, let's move on to referrals.
Who recommended the store to you? If it was a rich person, then chances are, it's a high-end establishment. They know where to find the good stuff. On the other hand, if it was just your average Joe, well, you might not be walking into a treasure trove of luxury.
Last but not least, let's talk names.
Expensive jewelry stores love to flaunt their fancy monikers. If the name sounds like it belongs in a fairytale or a royal court, then you know you're in for a treat. They don't hold back when it comes to making a statement.
"Josip's Secret", that was the name of the jewelry store.
So basically, this was before Victoria had a secret.
"Shall we, then?" I suggested, gesturing energetically towards the door.
Anastasia turned to me quizzically.
"Are you seriously planning to buy us a ring or something?" she inquired.
A grin tugged at the corners of my lips as I replied with utmost conviction, "Absolutely. That's the plan."
Ruri blushed instantly, her hand instinctively covering her radiant face.
"Are you sure it won't be a bother?" she whispered.
"Hm, no?"
"But it might be too expensive..."
I smiled at her, "Only the best for my students."
Anastasia pouted ever so slightly, her playful fa?ade intact.
"Sure, whatever you say," she muttered, unable to completely hide her excitement.
"Great!" I exclaimed.
Without further delay, Kennedy opened the jewelry store's grand entrance, ushering us into its opulent confines.
Our eyes were immediately drawn to a captivating figure, a man with lustrous black hair, a prominent beard, and blue eyes.
He stood behind the counter, a warm smile forming on his lips as he greeted us in a voice that oozed hospitality.
"Welcome to my humble establishment, how may I help you?"
"Well, I was thinking of—"
My words were interjected.
Ruri rushed into the comforting embrace of the man who welcomed us.
"Fourth uncle!" Ruri exclaimed.
Her eyes sparkled with happiness as she held Josip tightly.
Uncle meant that this was indeed Baron Grumer Goldfield.
Josip, with a proud smile on his face, reciprocated the hug wholeheartedly.
"My sweet Ruri, what a pleasant surprise! I wasn't expecting to see you here. Shouldn't you be at the university?" he asked.
"Yeah, I came here with my..."
Ruri was unsure how to refer to me.
Josip's eyes landed on me, studying me for a moment.
An amiable grin formed on his lips as he looked at Ruri.
Josip's eyes flickered between me and Ruri.
Soon, an impish smile tugged at the corners of his lips.
"So, you must be Ruri's boyfriend," he said, playfully teasing his niece.
Ruri's face flushed a deeper shade of crimson, embarrassment evident in her voice as she protested, "Fourth Uncle, you're embarrassing me!"
Josip's laughter, light and carefree, filled the room.
He waved his hand dismissively, assuring Ruri, "Oh, sweet Ruri, that wasn't my intention. I'm just happy to have finally met your beloved."
Some women married at the age of 14 or 15.
So technically, Josip was expecting marriage proposals by this time.
Extending his hand towards me, he continued, "Pleasure to meet you. I'm Josip."
I shook his hand firmly, and smiled as I replied, "The pleasure is all mine, Josip. You can call me Lumiere..."
With an approving nod, Josip turned his attention to Ruri once again.
"Well, Lumiere, it seems I'll have to entrust Ruri's happiness to you. Take good care of my precious niece," he said.
I met his gaze confidently. "You have my word, Sir. Ruri's happiness means a lot to me," I assured him sincerely.
But, honestly, why was I talking like I was her suitor or something...
Josip's inquisitive gaze then shifted towards Anastasia, his curiosity piqued. "And who might this be?" he inquired, observing her with a keen interest.
As Ruri clung to her uncle, she introduced Anastasia with proper noble manners. "She's my friend, Anastasia," she stated.
Anastasia, ever graceful, took a step forward and greeted Josip with a respectful curtsy. "Anastasia Clive, pleasure to meet you sir," she said.
"Clive?" Josip repeated. He leaned closer and asked, "Any relation to Earl Sepas Clive?"
Anastasia nodded, her expression indicating surprise at the mention of her uncle's name. "Yes, he's my uncle," she confirmed.
"Sepas is a good man. I've had the pleasure of crossing paths with him on several occasions," he reminisced fondly.
"Alright, back to business."
Josip stroked his beard thoughtfully.
"So, my young lady charmer, you want something perfect to end a first date, huh?"
It was no surprise he knew.
"Impressive, two women at once? Ah, those were the days!"
He chuckled nostalgically.
I was a bit surprised this man had no problems with me saying two women, seeing as one of them was his niece.
Then again, he probably had two wives.
And he wouldn't really care as long as I had money.
I chuckled in response. "I suppose so, Sir," I acknowledged with a grin.
Turning to Ruri, Josip directed her, "Make sure to make your friend feel welcomed while I show Lumiere some of the exquisite jewelry I have."
Ruri nodded eagerly, "Of course, Uncle!"
With Josip leading the way, I followed him deeper into the store.
As we walked, I suggested, "Wouldn't it be better if Ruri and Anastasia came along? After all, it's their choice."
Pausing for a moment, Josip nodded in agreement.
"Normally, that'd be the perfect idea. However, in this case, I believe it'd be better if you made the selection yourself. If they both liked it, then it truly would be the perfect choice."
Lies, he knew Ruri would tell me something was too expensive and I shouldn't buy it.
Add that to the fact that he knew since Ruri was his niece he'd have to give me a discount.
Honestly, you can't trust merchants...
Entering another room, the atmosphere shifted.
Everything was bathed in white, and numerous display cases showcased an array of opulent jewelry.
Just as I was taking in the luxurious surroundings, I noticed a man with striking blond hair.
Clad in the attire of a wealthy noble, like the kind you'd see at any important function.
Curiosity piqued, I turned to Josip and asked, "Who's that?"
Josip followed my gaze and smirked.
"Ah, that's Earl Goldcrest, a regular customer here. Seems like he's already made his choice," he replied.
Goldcrest, I'm sure I've heard that name before.
If I wasn't mistaken, this was Lance's father.
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