𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝𝐬 𝐀𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞

4. The pond of fate

Arielle stepped back inside the grand ballroom, her heart still racing from her earlier encounter with Aldith. The vibrant music and laughter of the guests enveloped her, yet her gaze darted around in search of Aiore. She had seen him standing there, his cold demeanor contrasting sharply with the festive atmosphere. Now, as she scanned the crowd, she felt a pang of disappointment wash over her when she realized he was nowhere to be found.

“Arielle!” a deep voice called out, pulling her from her thoughts. She turned to find her father, Duke Rosemountain, approaching her with an air of authority and pride. He looked a little like Father Su, hence, it wasn't that difficult to figure out who he was.

“Father,” she greeted, forcing a smile even as her heart sank. “Have you seen Prince Aiore?”

The duke’s expression softened slightly, and he shook his head. “No, but I heard he was outside for a moment." He glanced at her with a serious expression. "You must act like a perfect fiancée, my dear,” he advised, his tone filled with parental warmth. “Your engagement is not just a matter of heart; it is a matter of duty. You must conduct yourself with grace and poise, even when your heart is uncertain.”

Arielle nodded, absorbing his words, though they did little to quell her growing anxiety. “Of course, Father. I’ll do my best,” she replied, but her thoughts were elsewhere. She had to find Aiore; she needed to understand him better, to connect with him somehow.

“Good,” he continued, offering a proud smile. “Now, go on. Show everyone what a fine fiancée you’ll be!”

With a nod, Arielle excused herself, weaving through the crowd with renewed determination. As she passed by, she overheard snippets of conversation, laughter ringing out like music to her ears, but she was deaf to the joy around her. All she could think about was Aiore’s icy demeanor and the strange connection she felt toward him.

After several minutes of searching, she spotted Aldith across the room, casually chatting with a group of guests. She approached him, her heart racing with anticipation.

“Your highness! Have you seen Prince Aiore?” she asked, a hint of urgency in her voice.

Aldith turned to her, a playful smile tugging at the corners of his lips. “Ah, so you’re looking for someone else when I’m right here by your side? I’m hurt, Arielle.” He placed a hand dramatically over his heart, feigning offense. “But I suppose it’s to be expected when you’re engaged to the Crown Prince.”

“This isn’t a joke, your highness! I really need to find him!” she insisted, her frustration rising.

Aldith chuckled, leaning closer as if to share a secret. “Fine, fine. I'll tell you where he is, but on one condition."

Arielle raised a brow suspiciously. "What is it?"

"Call me Aldith, not 'Your highness' because I'm bored of hearing it all the time."

"Oh. Okay, Aldith." She gave him a friendly smile. "Can you tell me where he is now?" She blinked at him, trying to look adorable.

Aldith chuckled. "Okay, okay. He went to the garden, I suppose."

Arielle’s heart leaped at the news. “Thank you, Aldith!” she exclaimed, turning to make her way to the garden, her excitement propelling her forward. Yet, as she walked through the palace corridors, she quickly realized she had no idea where the garden was located. This was all new to her, and even though it was her own home now, it felt like a vast, uncharted territory.

“Think, Su Mi,” she muttered to herself, recalling vague memories of the layout. “It has to be on the other side of the ballroom, right?”

Determined, she headed in the direction she thought was correct, navigating through unfamiliar hallways and ornate decor. As she turned a corner, her foot caught on an uneven rock, sending her sprawling forward.