After finishing their meal, the two paid the bill and left the restaurant.
"That was delicious!"
"It's an upscale restaurant. The food lives up to the price."
"Really? I'm glad you liked it."
Cynthia smiled happily and draped her shawl over her shoulders. Although they were indoors, the corridor was still a little chilly in the clothes she wore. It felt cold compared with the warmth of the restaurant.
"What should we do next?"
"There's a lounge over there. Let's stop by."
There was indeed a lounge where Cynthia pointed. Most of it was indoors, but it seemed to have an outdoor section as well, with a view overlooking the Pokémon League Stadium.
They entered the lounge. Apart from a few staff members, there were hardly any other guests. It was the off-season, and it was getting late. The lack of people was only natural.
"Have you been here before, Cynthia?"
Just as at the restaurant, Cynthia seemed familiar with the hotel's layout. At least, Kaim had never visited this hotel since becoming her assistant. He asked whether she had come here before.
"Yes. I used to come every time I defended my title, but I stopped after you came along."
"Why?"
"Because I like your cooking."
When Cynthia defended her championship, Kaim's lovingly prepared meals made her happier than exquisite restaurant food. Of course, there were other reasons: they were busier than before, and Kaim was unused to restaurants like this. But the main reason was that she wanted to enjoy his cooking.
"...Really."
"Are you embarrassed?"
"You're noisy."
Kaim's ears turned red as he scratched his head and looked away. Their redness made his blue earrings stand out all the more.
Cynthia laughed happily and led Kaim into the outdoor lounge. The wind was weaker than he had