AVELINE I should still ask the Duke for permission before visiting Xavier.

I make my way toward the pavilion, my thoughts a little scattered.

"Father, I don't think I'll return to the estate right away. I plan to visit Xavier," I say, trying to sound casual.

"Visiting Xavier? Okay, just be careful," Father replies, a touch of concern in his voice.

Before I can turn away, I hear a voice. "Oh my, Aveline!"

I freeze. It's His Majesty, King Roland.

"Greetings to the Sun of the Empire, His Majesty, King Roland," I say quickly, bowing slightly in respect.

"Oh, please, do not be so formal with me, hohoho! My future daughter-in-law, just greet me normally next time," he chuckles.

"Um, okay, Your Majesty," I reply, my cheeks warming. Future daughter-in-law... I can't help but smile at the thought.

"Mind your words, Roland," Father warns, but I can see the hint of a smile on his face as he watches the exchange.

"Ha! Okay, okay. By the way, you're welcome to visit the Imperial Palace anytime. Xavier's palace is the Solara Palace, just tell the guard that when you arrive," His Majesty says.

"Thank you, Your Majesty. I'll get going now. Bye, Father," I say before leaving quickly, eager to head out.

Father waves at me as I make my way toward the Imperial Palace.

***

AVELINE The journey to Solara Palace doesn't take long. As I approach the gates, I realize I didn't tell anyone about my visit, not even the guard. It's a bit daring, but I want to keep it a surprise for Xavier.

The palace is stunning. The grand gates open with ease, and I'm ushered inside. The halls are lined with magnificent paintings, tapestries, and statues, all reflecting the wealth and power of the Quesaria Empire.

Where could Xavier be?

I continue down a corridor, the silence of the place overwhelming.

Suddenly, I hear a voice. "What are you doing here?"

I turn around, my heart skipping a beat. It's Xavier, but... Why is he wearing only a bathrobe?

I can't help but notice how his well-toned body is exposed—his broad shoulders, the sculpted abs... I blink, taken aback by how close he is. Without thinking, my hand moves forward, lightly touching his abs.

The moment I realize what I'm doing, my breath catches in my throat.

Xavier looks at me, an amused but questioning glint in his eyes. "Are you not going to answer me?"

I snap back to reality, horrified by what I just did. My face burns with embarrassment. I quickly pull my hand away, stammering, "Well, um, I came to visit."

Oh my god. What was I doing? My face feels like it's on fire, and I can't look him in the eyes.

Xavier seems to notice my discomfort and lets out a low chuckle. "You could have just said so. But, I'm glad you're here," he adds, a playful smirk tugging at his lips.

I look down, still mortified. "Sorry... I didn't mean... to... do that," I mumble.

He steps closer, his presence overwhelming in the most unexpected way. "It's fine. You're here now. Come on, let's talk," Xavier says softly, a warmth in his voice that calms my nerves just a little.

I nod, following him down the hallway, silently hoping the ground would swallow me up for what I just did.

***

XAVIER Hahaha, she's so cute trying to surprise me like this. Her flustered expression from earlier is still lingering, making me smile.

"Come into my room, Aveline," I invite her, motioning her inside.

She hesitates for a moment before stepping in, her gaze flickering around the room. "Why did you come?" I ask again, sitting casually on my bed.

Without a word, she walks over and extends her hand. "Here, your handkerchief," she says softly.

I look at the black handkerchief she's holding out, my name embroidered in white with delicate floral patterns framing it. My heart skips a beat. Oh my, she did prepare a handkerchief for me after all.

I feel my cheeks heat up as I take it. "Thank you, my lady," I say, leaning forward and pressing a light kiss to her forehead. "Your embroidery skills are quite something," I tease, grinning.

"Well, if you don't like it, then I'll take it back," she huffs, crossing her arms and sulking adorably.

How cute.

"Hey, who said that I don't want it?" I reply quickly, clutching the handkerchief protectively.

"You got a lot from other ladies anyway," she says, pouting slightly.

"Yours feels different," I say earnestly, holding the handkerchief with reverence. "I'll bring this to the battlefield later on."

"Battlefield?" she repeats, her tone tinged with worry.

Oh, right—I haven't told her yet.

"I'll be away for quite a while soon," I admit, glancing down at the handkerchief in my hands. "The enemy country, Varea, has been attacking the south. His Majesty will likely send reinforcements, and I'll be leading the campaign."

Her face falls slightly, but she nods. "I see... So does that mean I won't see you for quite some time?" she asks, her voice soft and almost vulnerable.

How endearing.

"Yes," I say, stepping closer to her, "but I'll write to you. I'll miss you, Aveline."

Her cheeks flush again, and I can't help but smile. She's so precious—so genuine. I vow silently that I'll protect her, no matter what it takes.