Chapter 12: Seeds of Affection

Ovelia's POV

•Outside the Palace•

The streets of the capital city buzzed with life as Ace and I walked side by side. The citizens greeted us warmly, their smiles genuine and their words filled with respect. It struck me then—Ace was a prince, and their warmth wasn't just for me. Still, it felt incredible. For the first time in my life, I was experiencing such kindness from strangers, and it filled my heart with a joy I hadn't known before.

"We haven't even visited a shop yet, and you're already beaming," Ace remarked, his voice light and teasing as he glanced at me with that charming smile of his.

I turned to him, my smile widening. "It feels amazing when people greet us with such warmth," I replied, my voice soft but filled with wonder. My heart fluttered as I took in the lively atmosphere around us.

•Fish Market•

Ace's smile deepened, and he gently took my hand as we stepped into a bustling fish market. The vendor greeted us cheerfully, and I felt a thrill of excitement as my eyes scanned the shop. Aquariums lined the walls, each filled with vibrant, colorful fish swimming gracefully. The sight was mesmerizing.

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. The fish's iridescent scales shimmered under the light, and I couldn't help but feel a childlike wonder.

Ace chuckled softly, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Yes, that's a beta fish. We can buy one if you'd like," he offered, his tone warm and 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. Just being here, experiencing this, was more than I could have ever dreamed of.

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, the cool breeze brushing against our faces.

•Fruits and Vegetables Stall•

As we passed by a vendor selling fresh fruits and vegetables, a peculiar fruit caught my attention. It was unlike anything I'd ever seen before.

"Ace, what's that? It looks like a dragon's egg!" I exclaimed, curiosity sparkling in my eyes as I pointed at the vibrant pink fruit.

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 fruit open with practiced ease. The vendor placed the beautifully cut pieces into a container, which Ace paid for. He picked up a slice, an unmistakable twinkle of mischief in his eyes. "Say 'Ahhh,'" he teased, bringing the dragon fruit to my lips.

I took a bite, the flavor bursting in my mouth. "It's not overly sweet, but it's delicious," I told Ace, my face lighting up with joy. His proud smile made my heart skip a beat.

•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," Ace said, holding up a vibrant dress with a playful grin.

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 shook my head. "Not yet. Maybe another time."

After much silliness and browsing through the vibrant store, we finally dressed, our hearts light, and 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.

[Evening]

•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 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 returned it 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.

His request took me aback, but knowing I owed him the truth, I recounted the entire incident—from the moment I spoke to the older 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 looked absolutely delicious, and I couldn't help but smile as we ate.

Ace's POV

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

As we left the restaurant and began walking toward the palace, I couldn't help but reflect on the day. Spending time with Ovelia had been unexpectedly enjoyable. Her laughter, her curiosity, her genuine joy—it all felt refreshing. For the first time, I wondered if maybe, just maybe, we could build something real.

"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," Ovelia said with a broad smile.

Her words struck me. It seemed she had never truly left her village before. The thought made me feel both protective and guilty.

"I enjoyed it too. I'm glad you had fun on our date," I said, smiling at her.

"Friendly date," she corrected playfully, looking down at her feet. "Ace... um, I know you don't love me because you love Eliana, but I genuinely enjoyed it today. I thought I'd be okay even if I'm not your mate." she added, meeting my gaze with a mix of embarrassment and hope.

I could feel my wolf's disappointment and hurt at her words, but I chuckled softly, my tone gentle yet teasing. "Do you know your words hurt my wolf?"

"Sorry," she replied, her cheeks flushing.

I sighed, realizing I needed to be honest with her. "Ovelia, I regret hurting you and forcing you to have sex on our first night together. Today, while enjoying each other's company, I kept thinking that I want to embrace our fate step by step. Can we start as friends? After all, even though we're married, we hardly know each other. My wolf chose you from Timberline Village as 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?" I asked, my voice earnest.

It was a selfish request, but I wanted to make things right between us. Eliana had given me time to figure out my feelings, and I owed it to Ovelia to try.

Ovelia's POV 

After hearing Ace's words, I felt an overwhelming mix of joy and anxiety. I forced a smile, trying to process everything.

"So you want us to start our relationship as friends, until we fall for each other?" I asked, my voice trembling slightly.

"Yes," Ace replied, his gaze steady.

I nodded, feeling a strange sense of relief. "Okay, I understand. I also thought about it earlier—maybe we could start as friends," I said, my smile genuine this time.

"I'm glad to hear that," he said, his voice warm.

I looked down at my fingers, playing with them nervously like a child. "Ace, honestly, 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 cheeks burning with embarrassment.

I expected him to laugh or think me foolish, but instead, he smiled, his eyes softening. He reached out and gently patted my head, a gesture filled with warmth.

I looked at him in shock, not expecting such a kind reaction. "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, occasionally grumpy, but then warm and sweet. I wished he would be kind to me daily; it felt so good and 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 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 Lady Ovelia inside the palace but 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 leaving the palace," I mumbled, guilt creeping in.

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

A smile crept to my face. I still couldn't believe this woman in my arms was already 25 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 entering the palace.

What could Ace be facing? It seemed incredibly important.