“Of course I did. But… I couldn’t find matching jewelry with it,” I lied.

He nodded.

Mom had a knowing look on. She knew, everyone knew, of my crush on Achilles Valencian. But they didn’t know it was more than just a mere crush.

He became my dream prince from the day he stepped into our house with Tobias when I was just seven. I still remembered that day clearly in my vague memories. But the day he saved me from some bullies in my school, he became my hero. And with time, he became my heart.

I stopped the urge to cover my flushed cheeks.

Where was he?

I looked around. People were gathered in small crowds. Some sipped on their drinks while some were engrossed in heavy conversations. He should’ve been here by now. Last month when he played chess with me, he promised me he would be here tonight. And he never broke his promises to me.

He used to come here everyday. But after the tragedy his family faced a year ago, his visit to our home lessened. He changed. Carefree, playful Ace turned into a lost and always angry Ace. He was always gentle with me, though. He would come and see us once a month. And of course, play chess with me.

The crowd cheered as Tess and Tobias descended the stairs in a dramatic way with the spotlight on them. In a pink mid-thigh fairy dress, Tess looked like a real fairy. Tobias also looked good in his black tux. They smiled down at the cameras as their friends clapped and whistled wildly.

But there wasn’t any sign of Ace.

Excusing myself, I aimlessly wandered around the people.

Where are you?

“Oww!”

Colliding into a hard chest, I stumbled back. A pair of arms soon circled around my waist.

“I’m so…” Looking up, my breath hitched at my throat.

Stormy gray orbs stared down at me.

His dense stubble was gone, revealing his chiseled jaw. Jet black hair was gelled back and the ring on his right brow wasn’t there tonight. Even though there were dark shadows under his beautiful eyes, and he had lost some weight, he still looked breathtaking.

“Rosebud?” His forehead creased as he straightened me on my feet. Gray irises roamed up and down my body, his jaw clenching. “What’re you wearing?”

The Greek accent was deep in his voice.

And it happened whenever he was angry.

My eyes widened. Didn’t he like my appearance?

“Uh, why? Don’t I look good?” I bit my lip. “I thought you would like it.”

His frown deepened as he watched my hair and heavy makeup. But then he shook his head.

“You don’t need my approval in anything, Emerald. It’s your choice whatever you want to wear.” With that, he walked away.

My heart fell.

I looked down at myself. Was anything wrong with my look? Why was he so distant?