Chương 9: Getting Ready.

Kyle got into his car and drove to one of the shops around the corner, nothing too fancy, but they stocked some decent clothes. He had never been to this store before, so this was a nice change of pace.

Kyle didn't care much about expensive clothes, as they would only draw unwanted attention. The last thing he needed was a criminal following him home to steal from him, especially with the lack of security in his apartment complex. He knew he had to be careful, including finding a safe parking space for his car, although he had yet to discuss this with Jones.

There was a designated parking area nearby, but it came with an extra fee. However, spare-part thieves frequently targeted that spot because they knew they'd always find a car to loot. Kyle realized it might be best to move out of the neighborhood altogether, but he needed to increase his wealth to make that happen.

With $400,000, he couldn't afford much in a high-end neighborhood. Everything there was more expensive, and the lifestyle that came with it would drain his wallet in no time.

Kyle took a deep breath and walked into the shop. He had little to no fashion sense, so he knew he needed all the help he could get.

"Good evening, sir. What can I help you with?" the store attendant asked, flashing that same customer service smile Kyle recognized all too well.

"I have a date, so I need something casual but, at the same time, fancy," Kyle said with a sigh, knowing that wasn't much of a description.

"Right this way, sir," the man said, gesturing for Kyle to follow him to a more exclusive section of the store.

Kyle noticed the leap in prices and couldn't help but respect the hustle. This man wasted no time trying to milk him. Everyone was just trying to make ends meet, after all. Not everyone was as fortunate as Kyle; in fact, no one was as fortunate as him.

The man led Kyle to a chair and brought a selection of clothes for him to try on. Judging by the man's confidence, he'd already seen Kyle's car and had no doubts about his ability to pay. Kyle had already received the address from Jane and was looking forward to the date. He couldn't believe he was actually going on one. The last time he went on a date was in high school, and that had been a forgettable experience.

"That one," Kyle said, pointing to one of the four outfits the man had presented. He'd already checked the price tag and knew it wouldn't dent his wallet.

The man seemed pleased with the sale, and Kyle could feel the aura around him shift as soon as he made his choice. Kyle handed him a generous tip of $1,000, which visibly brightened the man's day.

[Update in affection bar!]

[Jane's affection: 20%]

"Huh?" Kyle muttered, confused. He hadn't even done anything, so why was Jane's affection rising?

He thought he'd need to spend money to raise the bar, but it seemed all he had to do was be charming. That could explain why he'd drawn charm during the first lottery. Not that he was complaining. It seemed Jane had been thinking about him, and the more she thought about him, the more her heart fluttered.

[Update in affection bar!]

[Calista's affection: 10%]

"Wait, what!?" Kyle exclaimed, frustrated. He already disliked the idea of Calista being part of his harem, and he could tell she'd be difficult to keep happy.

"Of course, she has to be the problem," Kyle muttered, already exhausted. He figured her rising affection was likely due to him ignoring her call earlier. He'd seen with Jane how far a little conversation could go, leaving a mental imprint for them to dwell on when he wasn't around.

---

Time flew by, and Kyle found himself standing in front of Jane's house. He took a deep breath and walked up to the door, feeling a wave of nervousness. The flower in his hand trembled slightly, but he composed himself before ringing the bell.

A full minute passed, giving him just enough time to adjust his clothing and calm his mind. Then the door swung open, and Jane was standing before him.

"My God, you look beautiful!" Kyle blurted out, his words catching her off guard. Her cheeks flushed red instantly.

Jane was wearing a sleek black gown that hugged her curves like a second skin. Made of luxurious silk, it featured a daring, plunging neckline and a fitted bodice that accentuated her narrow waist. A subtle slit up one side revealed a glimpse of her toned leg, adding an alluring touch to the overall design.

"Here," Kyle said, handing her the flower in his hand.

Jane noticed his outfit—a simple white shirt tucked into navy blue trousers. It was understated yet classy, a perfect balance.

"T-Thank you," Jane stammered, her voice soft. She quickly headed inside to put the flower in a vase of water, motioning for Kyle to step in after her.

Kyle followed, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. Jane offered him a glass of water, but he declined, knowing they were about to head out soon anyway.

As he glanced around her apartment, he noticed signs that she didn't live alone. He was curious but kept his questions to himself, not wanting to pry. Right now, his focus was on their date.

Jane reappeared in no time, having finished with the flower. Whoever she lived with wasn't home, and Kyle was thankful for that.

"Shall we?" Jane asked, flashing a warm smile.

"Let's go," Kyle replied, his heart racing as they stepped out together.