Saved By The Mad Duke
Chapter 132: Affection Points

Chapter 132: Affection Points

"Your Highness!" Loraline’s low whisper was too harsh on Melania’s ears, but the attendant did not care for that. "How can you invite some stranger to spend time with us? What would people think?!"

Startled, the princess covered her lady-in-waiting’s mouth, offering her a warning glance, and whispered back,

"Be quiet, Loraline! I haven’t shown my face around the Capital just yet, so I don’t think anyone will recognize me, especially when I’m dressed like this. He, too, is just a foreigner. If someone notices us, they will most likely just think that we are some lower-class noblemen, is all!"

"But, Your Highness––"

"Shh! If you keep nagging me like this, I will send you back to the palace!"

Loraline had no choice but to comply. Standing quietly next to her lady, she offered the young stranger a rather timid look and nodded, agreeing to the princess’s suggestion. Yuraon smiled and bowed down again.

"It is a very generous and tempting offer, My Lady, but unfortunately, I must decline. You see, I do not really have a habit of drinking tea in the morning, and I most definitely do not have a habit of robbing noble ladies of their pleasant time in the shopping district."

Although his rejection was delivered in a polite but rather determined manner, Melania, too, did not have a habit of giving up.

"Nonsense! You will not rob us of anything! However, if you do not wish to drink tea, that is absolutely fine; I have another offer for you. How about I help you choose a gift for that important lady of yours? Please, do not reject me this time. You are not from here so you don’t know which shops to visit and, as a lady, I think you will find my insight in this matter rather helpful."

Although Melania, too, was not familiar with the Capital’s shops, she tried to sound as confident as possible because, for reasons unbeknownst even to her, she did not want to let go of this intriguing stranger so soon.

And, frankly speaking, Loraline’s constant company was also becoming rather dull; she craved something new and completely different.

Yuraon was taken aback by the young woman’s persistence, but he had to admit that her new offer was even more tempting than the previous one. Indeed, he had no idea where he could shop and he also had no clue as to what exactly a princess like Melania Lafad would like.

Perhaps this unexpected encounter was his lucky chance.

"Very well, My Lady. I would be a fool to reject your help when you are so generous and kind. Please, guide me through the intricacies of choosing the perfect gift for a lady."

And thus, Princess Melania, her loyal lady-in-waiting Loraline, and the young King Yuraon embarked on a delightful morning adventure through the bustling shopping district of the Capital. Their mission: to find the perfect gift for an upcoming occasion.

They ventured into the maze of shops, their chatter echoing through the streets as they admired the colorful displays and intricate storefronts. From quaint boutiques selling handmade jewelry to elegant parlors offering luxurious fabrics, each shop held its own charm.

As they strolled along, they stumbled upon a charming hat shop adorned with ribbons and feathers. Melania couldn’t resist trying on a variety of hats, each more extravagant than the last, while Loraline giggled at her lively antics.

Meanwhile, King Yuraon joined the duo, his presence a pleasant surprise. Despite his initial reluctance, he found himself drawn into their cheerful banter and infectious laughter. Together, they explored the hidden gems of the shopping district, discovering unique treasures and sharing unexpectedly lighthearted moments.

In a quaint jewelry shop, they paused to enjoy a variety of magically crafted rings, necklaces, and bracelets, their conversation flowing effortlessly as they admired the unusual designs. Melania and the king found themselves engrossed in each other’s company, their initial reservations melting away with each passing moment.

As they continued their journey, they stumbled upon a charming bookstore filled with leather-bound volumes and fragrant parchment. Intrigued, they browsed the shelves, exchanging recommendations and sharing their favorite stories.

As the morning drew to a close, they found themselves standing in front of a whimsical flower shop, its windows adorned with vibrant blooms and trailing vines, their freshness preserved by the powers of magic. Melania’s eyes lit up with delight as she admired the colorful displays, her heart inexplicably fluttering in the king’s presence.

It was then, amidst the blossoming flowers and laughter-filled streets, that Melania and Yuraon realized the depth of their connection which was formed so suddenly, that they still could not believe that it was more than just a passing attraction. The more they talked, discussing just about anything, they found solace and understanding in each other’s company, their feelings blossoming like the petals of a delicate flower.

"You have purchased quite a lot, My Lord! Are you certain your important lady will not feel burdened by such a myriad of gifts?"

Melania watched as Yuraon paid the florist for a large bouquet of pink roses, her lips stretching into a forced smile while she struggled to hide her unexplainable jealousy.

"I am surprised, however, that you chose for them to be delivered to her manor instead of giving them yourself. This lack of personal touch will inevitably result in a loss of some affection points."

The young King scoffed, clearly seeing through the lady’s endearing jealousy, then placed the roses between her hands, and replied,

"I have said it before, My Lady, I have zero affection points for that person, so a negative number of them will not change anything for me."

The princess widened her eyes in surprise, her hands barely able to hold the large bouquet and the man continued,

"I had a lot of fun today, My Lady. Without your help, my morning would have been quite dull and uneventful but thanks to you, I will remember it for a very long time. Now, I’m afraid I must leave you as I still have some important business to handle. And do not worry, no ladies are involved in it."

Smiling even wider at Melania’s confused expression, he offered her a grateful nod and added,

"Oh! I hope I got some affection points for giving you these flowers in person."