Chapter 12: Seeds of Affection

Ovelia's POV

[Outside the Palace]

As Ace and I walked through the bustling streets, the townsfolk greeted us warmly. I couldn't help but marvel at their joyful faces. It struck me then why they welcomed us so fervently; Ace was a prince. It felt incredible—this was the first time I truly experienced such warmth from strangers.

"We haven't even visited a shop yet, and you're already beaming," Ace remarked, glancing at me with that charming smile.

I turned my gaze toward him, my smile widening. "It feels amazing when people greet us with genuine warmth," I replied, my heart fluttering with the joy of the moment.

•Fish Market•

He returned my smile and gently took my hands as we stepped into a fish market. The vendor greeted us cheerfully, and I felt a thrill of excitement as my eyes scanned the shop. So many varieties and vibrant colors of fish swam gracefully in aquariums, captivating me.

I approached one aquarium, my eyes lighting up. "Ace, is that a beta fish? I've only seen them in books, but they really exist!" I exclaimed, marveling at its beauty. I glanced at Ace, who smiled just a bit at my enthusiasm.

"Yes, that's a beta fish. We can buy one if you'd like," he offered, his tone encouraging.

I shook my head, a soft smile playing on my lips. "No, it's enough for me just to see them," I replied, feeling content.

The fish market was expansive, and we explored every corner. I even had the chance to feed some fish, laughter bubbling between us as they eagerly nibbled at the food. After wandering through the shop, we stepped outside again, hand in hand, ready for our next adventure.

•Fruits and Vegetables Stall•

We passed by a vendor selling fresh fruits and vegetables. My attention was caught by a peculiar fruit I had never seen before.

"Ace, what's that? It looks like a dragon's egg!" I exclaimed, curiosity sparkling in my eyes.

He picked it up, holding it delicately as he smiled. "Is this what you mean? This is called dragon fruit. Haven't you ever tried it?"

"No, not yet," I replied, forcing a smile, though excitement bubbled within me.

Ace handed it to the vendor, who sliced the bright pink fruit open. The vendor placed the beautifully cut pieces into a container, which Ace paid for. He picked a slice, an unmistakable twinkle of mischief in his eyes. "Say 'Ahhh,'" he teased. He brought the dragon fruit to my lips, and I took a bite.

"It's not overly sweet, but it's delicious," I told Ace, my face lighting up with joy, earning a proud smile from him.

•Clothing Store•

Next, we headed to a clothing store. As we stepped inside, I was immediately captivated by the array of stunning outfits displayed, glimmering in the light. People greeted us warmly, and Ace and I exchanged smiles, feeling welcomed.

"Ovelia, you should try this on," he said, waving a vibrant dress in front of me.

I took the dress from him and slipped into the fitting room. When I emerged, I caught Ace struggling to suppress laughter.

"I look like a clown from a picture book," I exclaimed, eyeing my reflection with mock horror.

Unable to hold it anymore, Ace burst into laughter, clutching his stomach. I decided to find something equally ridiculous for him. After a moment, he stepped out, looking hilariously like a potato, making me roar with laughter. He glanced at his reflection, then joined in, chuckling at himself.

We spent the afternoon trying on various outfits, each one sparking new fits of laughter between us. Ace insisted on buying me clothes, but I insisted, "Not yet. Maybe another time."

After much silliness and browsing through the vibrant store, we finally dressed, our hearts light, and we stepped out of the shop, feeling excited about our evening.

"It's almost dark; let's eat dinner," Ace suggested, gently taking my right hand.

•At the Restaurant•

As we entered the restaurant, the vibrant atmosphere enveloped us—every table was filled with diners enjoying their meals. The interior was stunning, adorned with grand chandeliers that sparkled overhead, and the warm ambiance made everything feel cozy. The security guard greeted us as we entered, and Ace smiled, returning the gesture. Other patrons also nodded, welcoming us into the lively space.

The waiter led us to a perfect table by the window, where we settled in comfortably.

"What do you feel like eating? Go ahead and order," Ace said, passing me the menu with a charming smile.

I glanced at the menu, only to find it lacking pictures, leaving me unsure about what to choose. I handed it back to Ace, saying, "Could you please order for me? I trust your taste."

His smile brightened, and he began to order while the waiter nodded and walked away with a polite smile.

"Ovelia, I'd like you to tell me everything that happened last night," Ace said, his voice steady yet laced with concern.

I was taken aback by his request, but knowing I owed him the truth, I recounted the entire incident—from the moment I spoke to the old man to when he and Ann arrived just in time to save me.

I could see Ace's expression shift, anger tightening his jaw, his eyes darkening. "I'm sorry. This is my fault," he said, regret coloring his tone.

I was about to respond when the waiter arrived with our food, breaking the tension. The dishes presented looked absolutely delicious, and I couldn't help but smile as we began to eat.

After we finished our meal, Ace called the waiter over and settled the bill, his expression thoughtful as he glanced at me. It was clear that tonight wasn't just about dinner; it was about connection and understanding, something we both deeply needed.

After we left the restaurant, we began walking toward the palace.

"Ace, thank you. I'm so happy right now. I've never enjoyed myself like this before. I never thought I'd get to experience the things I've only read about in books," I said with a broad smile, my heart light.

"I enjoyed it too. I'm glad you had fun on our date," Ace replied, his voice warm but a little guarded.

"Friendly date," I corrected him playfully, looking down at my feet. "Ace... um, I know you don't love me because you love Eliana, but I genuinely enjoyed it today. It crossed my mind that I'd be okay even if I'm not your mate. So, can we just be friends?" I added, feeling a mix of embarrassment and happiness bubble up inside me as I met his gaze.

"Do you know your words hurt my wolf?" Ace chuckled, but his tone was gentle, teasing yet serious.

"Sorry," I replied, feeling a pinch of sadness wash over me.

"I know in my heart that I still love Eliana, but Ovelia, you're my wife now. I want to embrace our fate, step by step. We can start as friends. After all, even though we're married, we hardly know each other. I chose you from Timberline Village to be my mate. Since we don't love each other yet, I'll find a way to make you fall for me. So, could you also try to make me fall for you?" Ace said, his expression earnest, a hint of hope glimmering in his eyes.

I didn't know why I felt this overwhelming mix of joy and anxiety in that moment.

"Ace, to be honest, I don't know how to love. I don't even know what love feels like. Can you teach me how to love?" I asked, my voice trembling slightly with vulnerability.

Ace smiled, his eyes softening. He leaned down and kissed my forehead gently, a gesture filled with warmth. "Sure," he said, his smile brightening my heart, as if he could feel the weight of my uncertainties lifting.

I smiled, feeling a wave of joy wash over me as I witnessed his kind side. He could be moody, like he was on his period sometimes—suddenly cold, sometimes grumpy, but then warm and sweet. I wished he would be kind to me every day; it felt so good, so right.

I would never forget everything that happened today; it was pure bliss. I hoped we could experience it again.

It took me a moment to realize that we had just reached the palace. Suddenly, the door swung open, and there stood Ann, anxiety written all over her face. "Guards! I've been looking for Ma'am Ovelia inside the palace but I still haven't seen her! Have you seen her leave?" she asked, panic evident in her voice as she wiped the sweat from her brow.

"Oh no, I didn't even tell her I was going out of the palace," I mumbled, guilt creeping in.

Ann's eyes darted between Ace and me before she shouted, "Ma'am Ovelia!" She rushed toward me, enveloping me in a tight embrace. "I was worried sick about you! Please, just tell me when you're leaving the palace."

A smile crept to my face. I still couldn't believe that this woman in my arms was already 40 years old.

"Hehe, sorry about that," I said, scratching my head sheepishly.

Just then, Ray appeared at the door, his expression serious, as if he were carrying a weighty message. He approached us, saying, "Ace, I've been looking for you. We have a problem." He spoke with a gravity that silenced us instantly.

Both Ann and I looked at Ace, whose face turned stern. He gazed at me, placed his hand on my head, smiled softly, and said "I'll go ahead."

I stared at him, puzzled and concerned, as he stepped inside with Ray. Ann and I exchanged glances, confused and anxious, before gradually making our way into the palace.

What could Ace be facing? It seemed incredibly important.