Chapter 587 Just Want to Live a Simple Life
"Darling, take your medicine quickly." Ashley felt a surge of panic, yet her hands moved with practiced calm. She retrieved the medication and helped Ethan take it. After a moment, as his breathing regulated, the pain in his chest began to subside.
"I'm sorry I frightened you," he said softly.
"No, I should be apologizing," Ashley replied, guilt washing over her. "I should have taken better care of you."
The doctor had specifically warned against emotional disturbances for Ethan, and yet because of her...
As her self-reproach mounted, Ethan interjected, "Don't be ridiculous. You're already spoiling me to the point of uselessness."
Indeed, Ashley had been doting on him excessively—preparing his meals, helping him dress, attending to his every need. Ethan had grown accustomed to a life where he barely needed to lift a finger.
"Promise me," she said with concern etched across her face, "no matter what happens, try to avoid having such dramatic emotional swings again. Understood?"
"Understood."
"Your Highness, we've arrived at the shopping center," announced the driver.
"Darling, let me accompany you while you shop," Ethan offered.
"Let's skip shopping. Didn't I mention I had something to do? Are you hungry? I could prepare dinner when we get home."
"Since we're already here, why don't we grab something to eat before heading back?"
After a moment's consideration—realizing that Yaakov hadn't yet provided the formula for York's medication for Atticus's father—Ashley agreed.
They exited the car one after another, with Ashley pushing Ethan's wheelchair into the mall. The ground floor was filled with eateries. They entered a restaurant, found a table, and ordered several dishes.
Ashley poured water from her personal bottle into a cup and handed it to Ethan. "Darling, have some water to soothe your throat."
As he drank, Ethan inquired curiously, "Why do you carry your own bottle?"
"I've packed utensils in case you need to dine out. With your weakened immune system, I worry about the hygiene of restaurant tableware."
"You brought utensils? But only for me, not for yourself?"
"I'm not particular about such things for myself."
Ethan pouted playfully. "I see. You think I'm fragile, don't you?"
"Nonsense! When have I ever thought that?"
Ethan smiled, knowing full well she didn't see him that way—he was merely teasing. His gaze fell on Ashley's handbag. "What if I need to travel for business? Let me check if you've packed spare underwear for me too."
Ashley's cheeks flushed crimson. "Stop it! There are people around."
"Wait, you actually did?"
With a mischievous grin, Ethan reached for her bag. Ashley held it firmly, refusing to let go.
Ethan's expression turned sly as he clutched his chest. "Darling, you're breaking my heart. It hurts so much."
Ashley's grip loosened in alarm, and Ethan swiftly seized the bag. However, despite his victory, he didn't immediately open it.
"Ethan, you liar!" Ashley's face burned with embarrassment. "You absolute rascal! How could you joke about your health like that?"
"I'm sorry, truly. I just wanted to see what else you're hiding in here. Though I've captured your bag, it would be ungentlemanly to rummage through a lady's purse without permission. I need your consent first."
Ashley shot him an exasperated glance, checking to ensure no one was watching. "Make it quick, before someone notices."
"Of course."
With Ashley's permission, Ethan opened her handbag. It was from a boutique brand, not particularly expensive but spacious.
"My medication, utensils, facial wipes, disposable toothbrushes, and even my underwear... Darling, your preparedness isn't quite complete."
"What's missing? I'll make note and add it later."
Ethan's smile turned suggestive. "Well, if I'm traveling, I'll likely stay in hotels. And in hotels, we'd enjoy private moments, which would require..."
The rest of his words were whispered into Ashley's ear, their content known only to them.
Ashley's face turned an even deeper shade of red. "Ethan! Have you forgotten what the doctor said? Nothing like that for at least six months."
"For me, yes. But for you..."
Ashley was rendered speechless by his teasing.
Ethan affectionately pinched her cheek. "Darling, you're adorable when you're flustered."
As they continued their sweet banter, servers began bringing their food. Since being with Ashley, Ethan's previous issue with nausea when eating out had mysteriously disappeared.
Seeing the spread before them, he set aside his teasing. "Darling, you've had a long day at work. Please, eat well."
Ethan placed some meat on her plate.
"Thank you, darling. You should eat too," Ashley responded.
They dined together, chatting happily.
"By the way," Ashley said, "at work today, I heard discussions about the upcoming royal election in Gold Valley District. Everyone's saying the King intends to nominate you. Have you given it any thought?"
She looked at him intently as she asked.
Without hesitation, Ethan replied, "Not at all."
Ashley appeared surprised. "You seem so certain. Most people would be ambitious about such an opportunity. Why are you so calm?"
Ethan smiled. "Look at my condition. The slightest emotional disturbance causes me unbearable pain. Being king isn't exactly a walk in the park. With all those daily stresses, in my state, I'd probably only last a few days before..."
Before he could finish, Ashley interjected, "Don't speak of such things. Here, have some chicken."
Ethan ate the offered chicken, his eyes twinkling with amusement.
"Darling, do you aspire to be a queen?"
"Don't be absurd. I care nothing for titles. Just being with you makes me completely happy."
"I feel the same way. All I want now is a peaceful life with you."
Ashley and Ethan exchanged loving smiles.
"Your Highness!"
Suddenly, Vivienne's voice shattered their idyllic moment. Curious glances turned their way as people looked around, wondering which royal was present.
Realizing her mistake, Vivienne backtracked. "My apologies, I was mistaken. Please, carry on."
Nevertheless, she seated herself opposite Ethan. "I'm sorry I almost exposed your identity."
Ethan gave her a cold glance. "Who invited you to sit down?"
Unfazed by his chilly demeanor, Vivienne turned her attention to Ashley. "Aren't you from the Discussion Group? What are you doing with Totti? What's your relationship?"
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