The next day, after wrapping up Ethan’s measurements—despite some minor awkward moments—I headed out to the shopping district to buy clothes based on his measurements.

Of course, Ethan wasn’t with me. We’d planned to pick out outfits for each other, and it would ruin the surprise if he saw his clothes beforehand.

I usually went on outings like this with Agnes at my side back in the academy.

Thinking about how I’d wasted a whole year over a silly misunderstanding with her felt like a missed opportunity. At the very least, having her around meant I’d always had someone to …