Rendered in Code and Color

Chapter 6: Layers of Life

Though, if they weren't too caught up in their own world to notice all the other people, they would probably prefer a thinner crowd. The trio navigated the mall with practice, ducking in and out of the shops as they browsed their clothing racks.

"Hey, Miyuki, what kind of party is this, anyway? You said it was something family related, right?" Kaori asked.

Miyuki paused for a moment, a slight frown briefing her lips. "Well... it's not exactly a family party. Since my family is so involved in politics, they have to attend high-class parties to keep face and maintain connections."

"No way. Hm, so think more along the lines of a princess attending a party of nobles." Ayaka said thoughtfully.

Miyuki smiled wryly. "Honestly... I'm nothing like a princess, but I guess you're not too far off."

"That is where you're wrong, Mii-chan," Kaori grasped Miyuki in a tight hug. "You're our princess."

Miyuki was stunned for a moment, caught completely off-guard. "I-If you say so." Her expression turned warm as her friend pulled away and looked at her. "Anyway, fancy dresses and fashionable accessories are par for the course. It's actually a big deal to wear the same thing twice, so I'm forced to get something new for every party, just to never wear it again."

Kaori rolled her eyes dramatically. "High society problems, huh? Still, what a waste! If I bought a dress for every party, I'd wear it everywhere! To the park, to the beach, maybe even to bed!"

The trio laughed, but Ayaka's eyes sparkled with curiosity. "So, if you don't wear them again... what happens to all those dresses?"

Miyuki pursed her lips, thinking, "Some end up as hand-me-downs to younger relatives, some are donated, and others... just sit in my closet."

Kaori nudged her playfully. "Sounds like you need to host a fashion show. Or maybe start a rental business!"

Miyuki laughed. "Not a bad idea. It'd certainly make all this shopping feel a bit more worthwhile."

As they moved deeper into the mall, a dazzling array of colors, fabrics, and designs surrounded them. Kaori, ever the mischief-maker, pulled out a particularly revealing outfit, wiggling her eyebrows at Miyuki. "Think Kazuki would like this?"

Ayaka, a tad embarrassed, tried to stifle her giggle.

Miyuki's composure broke down for a moment as she replied, "What's Kazuki got to with this?!" Realizing her outburst, she cleared her throat and rolled her eyes. "I think that might be more suited for a beach party than a political one!"

Looking fairly satisfied with Miyuki's reaction, Kaori put it back with a mock pout. "I thought it was kind of cute."

Miyuki brought her palm to her face. "Please tell me you don't wear stuff like that regularly." She teased.

"What?! I was just messing with you... I wouldn't actually wear something like that," Kaori defended herself in a slight panic.

"Pffft. Good one Mii-chan! I've never seen Kiki look so embarrassed before." Ayaka said, unable to hold her fit of laughter back anymore.

"Oh, like you're one to talk! I'm sure you're wondering if Hiroshi likes stuff like that," Kaori retorted.

"Wha. T-There's no way I would wear something like that! No, no, no!" Ayaka responded in a fluster.

Miyuki was pretty sure even Ayaka's neck was turning pink. "Wait... You and Hiroshi." She put her cheek to her hand as she thought for a moment. "I didn't really think about it but, are you two dating?"