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Chapter 39 – The First Present

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Author: Eltria Original Source: Syosetu
Translator: Mui English Source: Re:Library
Editor(s): Robinxen

As I experimented, I used up all the materials I had prepared. The completed contact lenses numbered fifteen in total, with three prototypes to verify that the simplified formula was functioning properly. I spent the remaining twelve adjusting the color tones and refining the formula writings to enhance the appearance in the eyes.

With my mother’s assistance, I tried wearing lenses with different variations, but there was no noticeable discomfort.

“Creating this many on the first try… It’s truly remarkable, Leafa.”
“Thank you. It’s thanks to the education at St. Salaius Elementary School.”

Accepting my mother’s praise modestly, I took the opportunity to mention the school’s educational philosophy. From now on, I wanted to emphasize that the school provided advanced education, ensuring that my past memories wouldn’t be questioned in the future whenever I did something.

“It would be great if Alfe could also be pleased…”
“She’ll definitely be delighted. By the way, how about wrapping it up nicely?”

Following my mother’s suggestion, I wrapped the best-crafted contact lens for Alfe. It was unexpectedly my first time doing such a formal gift wrapping. I was a bit excited to see Alfe’s reaction.

On Monday morning, with one contact lens on, I went to school with Alfe. However, to avoid the obvious difference in eye colors, I had my hair styled to conceal one side, with the help of my mother. Nevertheless, it drew a bit more attention than intended.

“It’s unusual for you to change hairstyles, Leafa.”

Changing my hairstyle seemed to have caught Alfe’s attention more than expected. It was only a matter of time before she noticed the difference. I needed to take the initiative.

“Mother said I should once in a while… but anyway, this—”

Brushing off the topic of the hairstyle, I handed Alfe a small box adorned with a ribbon. Inside was the completed contact lens for Alfe.

“What’s this?”
“You’ll understand once you open it.”
“Right…”

Alfe carefully untied the ribbon with her small fingers and opened the box. The gradual blush on her cheeks was clearly visible.

“Wow…”

Upon seeing the contact lens neatly placed inside the box, Alfe let out an exclamation of admiration, her eyes widening.

“It’s a beautiful shade of blue…”
“It’s matched to the color of the other eye, the one that’s not your Pure Eye.”
“My eye color…”

Alfe murmured with a deep emotion, holding the contact lens between her fingers and examining it against the sunlight. I couldn’t help but squint my eyes at the sparkling color of Alfe’s eye, clearer and more radiant than the sky itself.

“Do you think you can wear it? I know that putting something in your eyes instinctively feels scary.”

I had already confirmed that the lens would stay clean thanks to the automatic cleaning feature. Since it is dry now, maybe I should explain that aspect as well.

“No, I’m fine, because you made it for me.”

Despite my concerns, Alfe seemed ready to put it on immediately.

“Got it. I’ve already confirmed the safety of it.”

I lifted my bangs to show Alfe the contact lens I was wearing.

“It’s the same color as mine!”

Realizing that I was wearing the same contact lens that I gave her, Alfe’s eyes sparkled with joy.

“Yeah, I’ve been wearing it for testing too. I don’t think the way you see things will change, but if any adjustments are needed, let me know. I’d appreciate it.”
“Sure. Thanks, Leafa.”

Alfe nodded appreciatively, bringing the contact lens close to overlap with her Pure Eye. The lens, reacting to Alfe’s aether, smoothly settled into her eye.

“How does it feel?”

Following my mother’s advice, I handed Alfe a compact mirror I had brought from home.

“Wow…”

As Alfe peered into the mirror, she blinked slowly. Eventually satisfied, she lifted her face and, with moist eyes, hugged me tightly.

“Leafa, I love you!”

Through the strength of Alfe’s embrace, I could feel the joy overflowing from her. Reflecting on the past, Alfe had always been the type to express happiness and excitement physically, like flapping her arms and legs when she was pleased. It was interesting to see that such remnants of her baby days lingered even now.

“You’re welcome, Alfe.”

For me, there was an underlying desire to apply the knowledge of Glass’ alchemy to modern applications, but setting that aside, doing things that made Alfe happy felt good. It was quite surprising that I, in my Glass days, had never considered being influenced by others’ emotions of joy. Perhaps it was because the person in question was Alfe.

“Hey, Leafa, can you keep that contact on just for today?”
“That was the plan. I want to test it for extended wear.”

That was my intention all along so I conveyed it as such, and Alfe seemed unexpectedly delighted by the idea.

“Hehe, we’re matching. I’m so happy ♡”

Alfe entwined her arm with mine and nuzzled her cheek against me. It felt a bit cumbersome to walk like this, but I decided to let Alfe enjoy it. After all, I wasn’t feeling bad about it.



 

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