A Remaining Podeshire 1

Chapter 6 (Part 4)

"Oh! By the way! Layla! We'll go to an exquisite boutique to check up on Sophia's elegant wedding dress," Amelia told Layla.

"Ah, perfect timing! We'll be leaving the house, too. We'll buy this kid an outfit for the wedding, too," Layla replied.

"Splendid!" Amelia smiled.

     Oliver and the Fuers left the household and turned towards their left, while Sophia and her parents headed to their right. The two families parted ways and walked in opposite directions. Though not far from one another, they ventured towards their destinations in the bustling downtown.

     Oliver and the Fuers reach a clothing store between humongous buildings in the streets. Inside the establishment, luxurious dresses drape over mannequins, and folded clothes lie on display behind windows. Gold trimmings give depth to the white walls, and plants with vibrant, colourful flowers bring contrasting colours to the place.

Upon entering, a polite salesman in his 30s greeted Oliver and the Fuers. "Ah, welcome! What can I do for you?"

"Give us your cheapest but the nicest outfit reserved for a groom," Layla ordered.

The salesman had a huge grin. "Yes, I'll bring it out right now!" he said while rubbing his palms.

     Oliver began to wander around the store. His smile and eyes widened when he stumbled upon the women's aisle and saw lavish dresses. Suddenly, Oliver heard Layla call for him, so he returned immediately.

"Kid!" Layla called, her voice bouncing on the walls.

"Coming!" Oliver hurried and stood between his adoptive parents.

The salesman brought folded clothes to Oliver and the Fuers. "We are in the midst of the traditional fashion revival trend! So, here you go!" he exclaimed. "A red plaid waistcoat for you. Red symbolizes love and passion, and it will give the couple a healthy relationship," the salesman explained as he unfolded the clothing. "...And since it's spring, green is a great colour to incorporate into your outfits!"

"How much is this?" Layla inquired.

"Thirty gold coins, Ma'am," the salesman answered politely.

Oliver gazed at the outfit in amazement. "Wow, this is fancy." He then asked the salesman, "...Do you think we'll have new trends in the next few years that will change our fashion?"

"Very likely, sir. Fashion has altered drastically over the past decades!" the salesman replied. "Who knows what Asbrannian grooms will look like in the next five years?"

Oliver then grabbed the clothes. "Can I try them on now?" he asked.

"Right. Try them if it suits you," Layla said.

"Head this way, gentleman, to the fitting room!" the salesman kindly escorted Oliver.

Oliver followed the salesman and entered the fitting room. Then, he unravelled the red curtain.

     Meanwhile, Sophia and her parents reached the boutique. The store hung elaborate dresses outside for display, and many young ladies flocked over to see the posh designs. Inside, white damask with floral patterns made up the wall, complementing the pots of blooming plants. Golden chandeliers with glass pearls swayed in the ceiling as their candles illuminated the interior in a soft, golden glow.