Chapter 26: A Sparkling Gesture

“It’s larger than I expected.”

“Yes.

The mineral expert I brought was amazed too.

The quality seems excellent.”

Hawk explained cheerfully.

“As you suggested, we tested two sites, and both yielded diamonds of similar quality.

I plan to offer the one with fewer reserves to His Majesty.”

“That’s a good idea.”

Fine nodded.

According to Val, Rosaider’s vast lands held many more veins.

Relinquishing a smaller diamond mine wouldn’t be a significant loss.

“Here’s a proposal: let’s have these diamonds processed into jewelry.

Will you come with me?”

“Of course.”

Fine nodded without hesitation.

Since arriving in Rosaider, she’d rarely left the mansion.

Unable to ride horses and hesitant to request a carriage, outings were scarce.

“I should have a day off next week.

Let’s go then.”

“Yes, understood.”

Fine smiled and nodded.

Anna styled Fine’s hair a touch more elegantly, curling the ends.

She chose a dress that was subdued yet feminine, suitable for town.

“You look lovely.

Your first town date with the master!”

“It’s not a date.”

“A newlywed couple going out together—what else would you call it?”

Anna puffed her cheeks, and Fine gave up arguing.

After getting ready, Fine headed to the entrance hall.

Hawk was already there, gazing out a window.

“My lord.”

As Fine called out, their eyes met, and Hawk’s seemed to widen in surprise.

“Is something wrong?”

“No, just surprised.

You look different today.”

“I see.”

‘He didn’t say I look beautiful.’

Disappointed, Fine caught herself.

‘What am I thinking?’

Their marriage was temporary, so expecting such words was foolish.

They rode a carriage to Rosaider’s oldest jewelry store.

Hawk held the door, and Fine stepped inside timidly.

“Wow…”

The shop was far more charming than expected.

It offered everything from classic to trendy designs, less ostentatious than the capital’s gaudy jewelry, aligning perfectly with Fine’s taste.

“How’s the diamond ore we left?”

“It’s been cut.

Here.”

The shopkeeper retreated briefly, then returned with a small box, presenting it reverently.

When opened before Hawk and Fine, a ring sparkled inside, set with a diamond the size of a pinky nail.

‘So beautiful.’

Fine was captivated.

Though not one for lavish adornments, a fine piece of jewelry thrilled her heart.

“A diamond’s value depends on weight, clarity, color, and cut.

This is flawless in every aspect.”

The shopkeeper explained with a smile.

“Good.

Perfect for a gift for my wife.

Thank you.”

Fine was stunned by Hawk’s cheerful thanks to the shopkeeper.

“A gift for me?”

“Who else would it be for?”

Hawk looked puzzled at her startled tone.

“Accept it.

I had it made for you.”

He took Fine’s left hand and slid the ring onto her ring finger.

‘Oh, a wedding ring?’

Having had no wedding, Fine lacked a ring.

It fit perfectly, as if custom-made.

Hawk’s eyes softened.

“It’s very beautiful.”

“…Thank you!”

Fine caught her breath, looking away and clutching her hands to her chest, heart racing.

‘He meant the ring is beautiful.’

She scolded herself.

Misinterpreting would only lead to her own heartache.