A Dress for the Occasion

The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden hue over the city as Kaede walked briskly through the streets. She had been at Ash's side for most of the day, guiding him through his "makeover," but now it was her turn. And she needed his help, whether he liked it or not.

Ash walked beside her, his expression still a little cold. He wasn't a fan of shopping—especially when it involved his appearance—but Kaede had made it clear that his participation was not optional. After all, she had just transformed him into someone who looked the part of a Keiretsu heir, so now it was time for her to find something to match.

"You're really going to make me do this, huh?" Ash asked, voice dry with skepticism.

Kaede grinned, her eyes glinting with mischief. "You might not like it, but yes. I'm taking you to buy a dress." She emphasized the word 'dress,' just to see his reaction.

Ash rolled his eyes. "I don't even know what half of this stuff means. Why do I have to be here?"

"Because," Kaede said with a teasing smile, "you're my... companion for the evening. And besides, you owe me. You dragged me around for your suit. It's only fair."

Ash opened his mouth to argue, but Kaede shot him a look that silenced him immediately. "You're coming, and you're staying with me until I find something perfect. End of story."

He sighed heavily, muttering under his breath. "This is going to be a disaster."

It didn't take long before they arrived at a boutique located on one of the more upscale streets. The store had large glass windows, displaying elegant dresses and fine fabrics that shimmered under the lights. As they stepped inside, the cool air-conditioned breeze hit them, and a wave of opulence filled the space. Rich velvet curtains framed the dressing rooms, and soft music played from hidden speakers, giving the place an air of sophistication.

A well-dressed sales assistant approached them almost immediately. "Good evening, Ms. Shirogiri," she greeted Kaede with a polished smile. "How can I assist you today?"

"Ms. Shirogiri," Kaede blinked in realization. A flush rose to her cheeks, and she cleared her throat awkwardly. "Ah, I mean... Ms. Kaisho," she corrected herself, giving Ash a quick glance as if to say she was still adjusting to this new side of her life.

Ash barely reacted, his expression still as indifferent as ever. Kaede couldn't help but feel her embarrassment. The mistake felt strange, almost out of place. Yet, Ash's nonchalance only made it worse for her.

"Of course," the sales assistant replied smoothly, her eyes scanning Kaede from head to toe. "May I suggest something from our latest collection? It's perfect for your figure."

Kaede turned to Ash, who had taken a step back, looking out of place. "Don't just stand there," she said, half-smiling, "help me pick something. You know, like a normal person would."

Ash gave her an incredulous look. "I'm not exactly a fashion expert, Kaede. What do you expect me to do?"

"You've been to enough corporate parties, Ash," Kaede said, raising an eyebrow as she scanned the selection of dresses. "Just give me your honest opinion. This is for the Keiretsu event, after all."

Ash sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I've never even been to a corporate party, Kaede. You're the one who lives that life."

Kaede chuckled at his admission. "True. But you've seen enough in the movies, right? Or at least the basics."

Ash, reluctantly eyeing the gowns, muttered under his breath, "I guess I've seen enough to know that this whole thing feels like an expensive joke."

After a few minutes of silent contemplation, Kaede picked up a deep red gown. It was long and flowing, with intricate gold embroidery along the hem, reminiscent of a royal dress. The fabric shimmered under the store lights, and Ash couldn't help but notice how the design seemed to complement Kaede's presence. It was bold yet sophisticated—exactly what she needed for the event.

"This one," Kaede said, her voice filled with quiet confidence. "I like it. What do you think?"

Ash, taking a long moment to study the gown, nodded slightly. "It looks... striking. The red's bold but not too over the top. The gold accent is a nice touch."

Kaede smiled, her eyes sparkling with something more than just approval. "I thought so too. I think it'll make a statement."

The sales assistant took the dress, offering to prepare a fitting room for Kaede. As Kaede stepped away to change, Ash couldn't help but feel like an outsider in this world of high-end luxury. He had never been to corporate parties. His life had never included any of this—polished facades, gleaming dresses, and wealthy heirs. He had been too busy with his training, his survival, and the constant pressure of maintaining his position. The Keiretsu world felt far removed from anything he'd ever known, and he felt like an imposter in the midst of it all.

He wasn't used to this level of sophistication. It felt like a game to Kaede, but for Ash, it was a reminder of the life he had been pulled into. The Keiretsu world wasn't a game—it was a war, and everyone wore their armor in the form of wealth and status.

Kaede returned moments later, stepping out of the dressing room with the red gown on. It clung to her curves in all the right ways, the fabric hugging her form as she moved. The dress was stunning, and she looked every bit the powerful, poised heir she was. But there was something else—an aura of confidence and control, like she knew exactly what she wanted and wasn't afraid to take it.

Ash's expression softened for a moment as he took her in, his usual indifference replaced by a rare hint of admiration. "That... looks incredible on you."

Kaede met his gaze, and a small, satisfied smile curved her lips. "Thank you," she said simply. "Now, you're going to help me get the right accessories. I need earrings, a necklace... the whole package."

Ash chuckled under his breath. "You're really getting into this, huh?"

Kaede smirked. "You have no idea."