The Frog and The Beast

The Frog Chapter 2

We lived in our own cozy apartment complex situated just above our shoe store. Its prime location offered easy access to supermarkets, restaurants, and public transportation. Our apartment featured a spacious living room, four bedrooms, a kitchen, and two bathrooms. The rent was affordable, allowing us to relish the independence of having our own space.

As soon as we arrived home, I dove into stocking our newest products. I meticulously organized the shelves, ensuring each pair of shoes was displayed attractively. I positioned the latest styles front and center, hoping to catch the eye of customers as soon as they walked in. Once everything was set up, I stepped back to admire my work. The store looked fresh and inviting, ready to welcome eager customers in search of the latest footwear trends—just how my dad always liked it.

"Excuse me?"

I turned to address the customer who had entered, and for a moment, I was speechless. It was Lucy Heartfilia, the Princess of Fairy Tail Academy, perhaps even of New Hampshire. I know that sounds odd given the century we live in, but that's how Lucy had been known since she moved here three years ago.

Lucy had always been a captivating presence, with her perfect blonde hair, wide brown eyes, and a bright smile that could light up any room. Her slender figure, long smooth legs, and tan, flawless skin only added to her allure. With a famous fashion designer as her father, she had modeled his clothes since she was five years old.

As I stood there, trying to gather my thoughts, Lucy smiled brightly at me, radiating confidence and charm. "Hi there! I'm looking for some new shoes for the upcoming dance," she said, her enthusiasm infectious.

I quickly recovered from my initial shock.

"Of course! We just received a new shipment. Let me show you the latest styles we have." I led her to the section where the newest arrivals were displayed. Each pair seemed to sparkle under the store's lights, but I knew I had to find the perfect match for Lucy.

As I picked up a pair of elegant heels adorned with subtle sequins, I couldn't help but admire how they complemented her style.

"What do you think about these?" I asked, holding them up.

Lucy's eyes lit up as she examined the shoes. "They're beautiful! But I need something I can dance in," she replied with a playful grin.

I nodded, understanding that comfort was essential for a night of dancing.

"How about these stylish flats? They're comfortable yet chic, perfect for dancing the night away."

She tried them on, and as she twirled around, joy radiated from her face.

"I love them! I'll take them!" she exclaimed.

As I rang up her purchase, her phone began to ring. It was her friend Cana calling.

"Hello? Oh hi, Cana... No, I'm just buying some shoes for the dance... I'll be going with Loke... No, it's not serious. Once the school year is over, we're over... Because he's such a macho meathead and has the brains of a shrimp. Looks are all he has going for him."

Moments like that brought me back to reality. Yes, she could be vain and often had a superior attitude.

When she first moved here, I had a huge crush on her, but she didn't even know I existed. Despite the hundreds of guys drooling at her feet, she never seemed interested in a serious relationship. Sure, she'd date to maintain appearances, but she didn't think anyone was good enough to be her boyfriend. Sometimes, I wondered if she truly believed she was a princess waiting for her prince.

Deep down, I thought she might be a nice person. But then again, perhaps I only believed that because of her beauty. Damn, sometimes I could be just as shallow as those who picked on me.