They were sneakers. Black and white ones. His feet weren’t that big—he looked down and wiggled his toes just to make sure—but all the formal shoes were casually smaller: too small for him. He did spot one pair, but it was a few sizes too big…he didn’t want to wear a clown’s shoes.

As soon as he had paid for them, he slipped them on over a black pair of socks (which he had bought with the shoes), and tied the laces neatly and tightly. They were comfortable: different from the shoes he was used to wearing all the time. Other than that, it was quite amusing too; against the smooth flooring, the sole of the sneakers squeaked if he rubbed it at the right pressure.

Rain walked over to Cadenza, who seemed to have finished her browsing. She was holding up a few nice pieces of clothing in her arms.

“Here, let me.” He swiftly grabbed them up, not even waiting for her to give him permission. Rain put the pieces of clothing gently on the countertop.

“This is why I told you ‘keep the change’.” he grinned. The cashier only offered a small smile back and began checking the price tags on the clothes. He nodded and began piling the clothes into bags. Rain moved away and toward the exit, leaving Cadenza waiting for her bags.

Squeak. Squeak. Squeak. Squeak. Squeak.

“Stop that.” An employee protested against the annoyance. Rain only smiled at him and began walking normally again, but as soon as he reached the exit…

Squeeaaak.