Chapter 49.2

On the other hand, only Arnold chuckled as if he had expected this development.

"I'm sorry for underestimating you, Rishe-sama. You're the first young lady to choose an appraisal kit instead of relying on guesswork or their beauty."

"I'm sorry to have borrowed your precious tools. But I didn't think I could make a decision without at least looking at them."

As she returned the tools to the man, Rishe recalled.

It's a lesson I was reminded of in my life as a merchant... The beauty of the jewel isn't a standard for guaranteeing its authenticity.

The fledgling Rishe didn't know that, and was attracted by fake gemstones at random. Bitter memories flashed back, and she suddenly looked in the distance.

"Although, Shopkeeper, even if they are imitation gems, these gems are truly beautiful."

"Can you think of it that way?"

"Yes. They're sparkling and clear."

Rishe walked back to the counter and looked down at the jewelry box again.

Authenticity wasn't the only thing that determines the splendor of a gem... Even knowing that they were knockoffs, she was certain there were many people who would love and cherish these stones.

The gems were simply beautiful. Rishe adored these stones with all her heart.

They were so enthralling that she couldn't help but smile at them.

"Y-you..."

The old woman standing in front of her let out a small gulp.

After that, she once again bowed deeply.

"I'm deeply impressed, Rishe-sama. My sincerest apologies for testing the future Crown Princess."

"Huh?!! No, it's nothing at all. Please raise your head."

While hurriedly telling the old woman, Rishe pondered.

Got it, all that questioning was to test her.

His Highness Arnold was standing on the sidelines. So this must be related to the reason he brought me here...

What in the world were they going to make her do?

I wonder if it's a jewelry appraisal... That's not the case, because this is a store where professionals work. Or were they in a sales bind and wanted to do something about it?... No, I don't even get that vibe. Then why?

As she mulled over it, the old woman smiled and said, "My son and his wife have a wide range of business, but this shop is my hobby. They have an extensive collection of stones from all over the world, and I choose which customers to sell them to."

Some merchants engaged in that kind of business from time to time. When she nodded in understanding, she was told something unexpected.

"But, Rishe-sama, if it's someone like you, I'd definitely love it for you to have it."

....Huh?

She felt like the story was going in a strange direction.

She looked askance next to her, but realized that Arnold has left the counter and was now sitting in a leather chair.

He rested his cheekbones on the armrest, turned to the old woman and said, "Enough of the tedious talk. If you're convinced, just give this gal what she wants."

"As you wish. I'd be delighted to prepare everything."

They left her out of the talk, so she hurriedly interrupted the conversation.

"Um, Your Highness Arnold? What's going on here?"

"Ma, then Rishe-sama hasn't heard the details yet?"

Rishe nodded persistently. The old woman smiled and then replied, "The Crown Prince wants a ring for his bride to wear at the wedding ceremony."

"―― ............ Eeeek."

A weird voice was squeezed out with all her strength.

TN: I see, they were shopping for wedding rings ^_^