💖FROM HATE TO HEART 💖

FALLING FOR YOU

💗CH-14💗

Magnus sat under a sprawling oak tree in the garden, a book open on his lap. The soft rustling of leaves above and the occasional chirp of birds made for the perfect backdrop to his reading. The fae prince had come to Alicante only recently, but he was already finding solace in its quiet corners.

As he turned a page, the sound of footsteps on the gravel path made him glance up. A striking young woman, dressed in a simple yet elegant gown, approached with a warm smile. Her dark hair cascaded over her shoulders, and there was a confident spark in her eyes that told Magnus she wasn’t just any visitor.

“ hey magnus ” she said, stopping a few feet away. Her voice was friendly, but her tone carried a hint of curiosity.

Magnus closed his book gently and rose to his feet, offering a polite nod. “ Hey , you must be Izzy.”

Izzy’s smile widened. “Correct. I see Alec has been talking about me. Only good things, I hope.”

Magnus chuckled softly. “He did mention his sister was quite remarkable. I see now that he wasn’t exaggerating.”

Izzy laughed, gesturing toward the path. “Mind if I join you for a walk? I’d like to properly welcome you to Alicante.”

“Of course,” Magnus said, slipping his book under his arm as they began to stroll together.

They walked side by side through the garden, the vibrant flowers and tall hedges creating a picturesque scene around them. Izzy pointed out little details about the place as they walked.

“This garden has always been my escape,” she said. “Whenever the castle feels too stifling, I come here. I imagine it’s a bit like your forests in Aetheria?”

Magnus nodded thoughtfully. “Similar, yet different. The gardens here feel meticulously designed, almost like art. The forests of Aetheria are wilder, untouched, and alive in ways that are hard to describe.”

“I’d love to see them someday,” Izzy said sincerely.

“You’d be welcome anytime,” Magnus replied, his smile soft.

After a few minutes of walking, they came to a small fountain surrounded by benches. Izzy stopped and turned to Magnus. “ Now you know about my family but let me give you some advice: my mother will ask far too many questions. Don’t let her intimidate you.”

Magnus arched an eyebrow. “Should I be worried?”

Izzy grinned. “Not at all. She just likes to know everything. But you’ll do fine—you’re far too charming to be rattled.”

A young maid approached from the castle then, bowing slightly. “Lady Izzy, the Queen wishes to see you.”

Izzy sighed dramatically, though her eyes twinkled with amusement. “Duty calls.” She looked back at Magnus. “Enjoy the garden, Magnus. And if you need anything, don’t hesitate to ask. I’m sure Alec won’t mind if I steal you for another walk later.”

Magnus inclined his head with a smile. “I’ll hold you to that.”

Izzy gave him a quick wave before heading back toward the castle with the maid.

Magnus returned to his spot under the oak tree, the book still waiting for him. He settled back into the shade, but his thoughts wandered briefly to the lively, confident woman who had just left. It seemed Alicante held more surprises than he’d anticipated. With a small, contented sigh, he opened the book and resumed reading, the soft breeze carrying the faint scent of roses through the air.