*Agressive body rolls*

"Okay, okay. But if you need anything, you know where we're staying."

"Yes, at Johnny's very expensive beach house." You laughed, opening the door and entering the dark space. You tossed your keys on the dish bowl at the side, removing your shoes and bag before closing the door, making sure the two locks are intact. "Now go spend some time with your boyfriend."

In the other line, you heard Johnny yell out an enthusiastic 'yeah' followed by your friend shushing him. "Fine, stay safe there, okay? Call me if you need anything."

"Okay bye, have fun." You again heard Johnny bid you goodbye before your friend hanged up, removing the phone from your ear and connecting the phone to the wifi.

You sighed at the quietness. Tossing your phone to the counter beside the door, right where your keys are. You twirled your neck, massaging your shoulders while opening the lights to your place, though only for the weekend.

You removed your hair from the bun, sighing in relief when it's not in a tight knot anymore. You opened your eyes and made your way to your room, just right across from the front door but then let out a yell when you saw a figure already sitting on the bed.

"What the fuck?!"

"Took you long enough," Yuta said, putting the book he was reading down on your bed before walking towards you, wearing sweats and a white shirt.

You rolled your eyes at Yuta, turning your back away from him, walking to the mirror in the living room. You remove the ring from your finger, then your necklace.

You felt hands wrap around your waist not long after, proceeded by a kiss on your nape. You felt him sigh at the contact, his hands exploring your skin under your clothes. "Let go of me, asshole." You said, slightly elbowing him.

He did let go of you, Yuta looking at you through the mirror. "What? I don't wear that cologne you hate. At this point, you're just being dramatic." Yuta said, smelling at the hem of his shirt to check, which was true.

A month ago, you didn't sleep with him for a week because of the cologne he wears. It was way too strong, stating it can put Axe out of business with its 'greasiness'

"You got so lucky, thank goodness Yunjin isn't here if she saw you-"

"Relax, Johnny told me he was going to be out with Yunjin for the weekends. That's why I know no one will be here." Yuta answered, slowly walking closer back to you.

When you gave him a duplicate key to your dorm, you did it so he can take the things he would accidentally leave in your room when you're out with Yunjin. If you knew it would be so he can literally stay in when he pleases, you would just use it to stab him.

You again felt Yuta press his body on your back, his hold now tightening. You sighed and look at the mirror, seeing he had his head buried on your shoulder. You immediately hit his head, annoyed. "I told you to stay away from me."

Yuta lifted his head, eyebrows furrowed. Though he still didn't remove his arms around you, only loosening his hold while looking at you through the mirror. Then, it was like a lightbulb lit up. "Are you still mad about that thing from Biology?!"

"Of course I'm still mad at that thing from Biology!"

Earlier that day...

You are in a dilemma. First of all, you love animals, but there are also a few that made every hair in your body rise, one of them being frogs. The same animal spread out in front of you in a jar, looking at you as he croaked.

You wanted to save it just as much as you want to take its existence, wincing and even slightly flinching when it moved around the jar, the voice of your professor echoing the room, though you didn't pick up what he said, busy with the staring contest with the frog.

"And now class, what I want you to do is label the parts of the frogs accordingly. You have an hour to do all of this, you may now start." Looking around, you gave the scalpel to Yunjin, looking at her pleadingly.

"I thought you got this covered?!" She asked in a hushed tone, taking the scalpel from you, placing it on the table beside the container as you took a step back, fixing your gloves.

"I don't get it covered, you know I can't kill it and I hate them. You mumbled back shivering at Yunjin twisting the lid open, grabbing the frog in her hands.

You grimaced as she placed the frog on the table, taking another step back as she begins to open it. You then bumped on someone while stepping back, immediately turning around to apologize.

"Oh my gosh, I'm sorry. I wasn't looking."

"It's fine." The boy replied, turning around to see you with a concerned look. "Oh, it's you, of course, it's always you. No one can be stupid enough." His lab partner, Jungwoo, looked at Yuta then to you, clearing his throat and shaking his head as he knew what will follow through, just as much as everyone will.

"Tone it down, Nakamoto. Don't want a repeat from last week, right?" A smug look on your face, reminding him of how he mixed two chemicals wrong which made quite a big explosion in the classroom.

"Aren't you supposed to be helping your partner?" Yuta asked, Jungwoo mumbling something under his breath you didn't catch on. "I'm going to tell on you." Before he could call on the attention of your professor, his hands raised midway, you pulled it back down.

"I am doing something, it's just not my turn." You answered, Yuta looking at you in wonder.

Then, a smirk landed on his face. "Are you scared of frogs, y/n?"

"No! Weirdo." You said, way too defensive for it to be true. "I just don't like killing animals, like you are. Psycho." You said, shivering at the mere imagination of it.

"Oh, really now?" Yuta said, not giving you time to answer before he pushed a container of a live frog in front of your face, making you flinch back.

"The fuck, Yuta?!" You said, managing to compose yourself, a distance now between the two of you. "Are the chemicals still affecting your brain?"

"You're not scared, right? Go on, carry the little baby." Yuta teased, a wide grin on his face as he pushed the container in front of you. Jungwoo looking between the two of you, clearly interested in what's happening.

You took a deep breath and took the container from Yuta's hands, your arm outstretched from you. "Se-see? I told you." Your voice said in a small, shaking tone.

"You're right. How can I even think for a second the great y/n is scared of anything." Then, he began to uncap the container with a wide smirk on his face.

Before he could even fully remove it, you shouted and dropped the container, making it shatter and the frog free. Your yell and sound of breaking alerted everyone, some yelling of their own at the sight of a free, jumping frog.

You were now hiding beside Yunjin, who was also shocked at the sudden commotion. Yuta laughing at your reaction, continuously teasing you even with the mess he created.

"Y/n! Yuta!" His smile left his face at the voice of your professor, looking at both of you with an angry look on his face. "Follow me to the office!"

You groaned again at the memory, the voice of your professor echoing through the office that it still caused you to physically shiver. His figure pacing back and forth while lecturing you both.

"You need to let that go."

"I have an entire week of community service, all because of you and that damn frog." You said, grabbing your towel as you headed to the bathroom, Yuta smiling at this, tailing at you while you made your way to the bathroom.

"You don't have plans anyway, you never do. I've been here for 8 months and I haven't seen you at one party." He answered, leaning on the doorframe of the bathroom, one where you were currently undressing.

"You don't get invited to parties, Nakamoto." You answered while rolling your eyes, tossing your shirt to the basket in front of you. "No one likes you."

"You do," Yuta answered cheekily, openly eyeing you up and down as you unbuttoned your pants. You looked at him with disbelief, walking towards him before pushing him out the bathroom, closing the door then locking it.

Though it was harsh, it was true. Yuta has an intimidating aura, one that makes him scary to approach. He is good-looking, but not a lot of people really have the courage to be close with him in the fear that he will just shut them down, and Yuta doesn't really mind keeping his circle small.

The only parties he gets invited to are the ones Johnny would host. They both live at the same apartment complex, living actually just right across from each other.

"Look, I'm sorry. I didn't know you hated frogs that much." Yuta yelled, making sure you can still hear him despite the shower running.

"Isn't that the point?" You yelled back, the water of the shower running slower. "I told you, it's better if we don't get to know each other personally." You followed up, the water of the shower running again.

That was one of the unspoken, spoken rules between your 'relationship' with Yuta. It started 2 months after you started hooking up, one of the first times you stayed until the morning.

"You're leaving already? Let's get breakfast first at least."

"Ew, do you have a crush on me or something?"

"No, the fuck? I was just being kind, especially after I broke your back and all. It's called chivalry, y/n. Or maybe that's too deep for your vocabulary."

"Let's keep this." You pointed between you and him, who was still naked under the covers of his bed. "Between just us, no dates-"

"It's not a date, do you want to date?" Yuta asked, removing the covers on top of him and wearing the sweats he has on the chair. "Are you scared that one pancake will make you fall in love with me?"

"More like I'm worried about you falling for me." You zip up your hoodie and patted your pockets, making sure you have your wallet and phone. "No more personal stuff, Nakamoto."

Yuta thought it was a fair deal, not knowing much about you and not knowing much about him will make your entire relationship casual, or not even reaching that point.

You finished taking a shower not long after, finding Yuta was sitting down on the couch with his phone, tossing it somewhere on the couch with the sound of the door opening. "Did you eat already?"

"Yes." You answered simply, entering your room and opened your drawers, picking out your clothes for tonight which is the usual oversize shirt and shorts.

"You did? When?" You glanced at the door and saw Yuta enter your room, laying down on the bed while he watched you move around. You placed your clothes on the table and sat down at the chair in front of it, a mirror also placed on top of it. Giving a clear view of Yuta in bed, and the bed itself which Yuta found more than convenient.

"Ate with Jaehyun before coming home." You answered nonchalantly, applying your usual skincare products on your face.

"I didn't know you were dating him." You chuckled lightly at Yuta, his voice almost sulky. You looked at him through the mirror and saw he had his head leaned back to your headrest.

"We aren't. We just-" you stopped yourself, not wanting to reveal anything more. Yuta looked at you when your voice stopped, making you look away. "We're friends, that's that. If I'm seeing someone, you're not the one on my bed.

Yuta wanted to ask more but decided not to push the idea. He stood up from your bed and walked behind you, his hands making their way on your shoulders, while you only glared at him through the mirror. "I really am sorry for the frog thing, I didn't know. If I did, I probably wouldn't open the container."

You shook your head at this, Yuta giving you a teasing grin. Just as when you picked up your shirt, he snatched it away from your hands and tossed it somewhere in the room, making you stand up from your seat, "Jerk!"

"Come on, baby. I missed you." Yuta murmured, burying his face on your neck, placing soft kisses then eventually, sucking on them. He pulled your body closer to him, your hands making their way to his hair.

He sat down on your bed, pulling you with him which made you straddle him, sighing at his touch. "Why even wear clothes when I'm around, huh? We both know you can't keep it in your pants anyway."

"Says the one who went here in the first place." You hissed, Yuta removing himself from you and placing you on the bed, his body now hovering over you.

He removed the knot on your towel and removed it, smirking at himself at the sight of your breasts, one of his hands squeezing one of them instinctively, both of you sharing another heated kiss.

You pulled the bottom of his shirt which was brushing on your stomach, Yuta pulling it over his head and tossing it somewhere, grinding his hard-on against your exposed area. "See, I knew you missed me too."

"Stop ruining everything." Both of your hands were pinned on top of you, moaning as Yuta continued grinding on you and placing small kisses on your neck, trailing down your body until he was kneeling down in front of you.

He placed your hands on his hair which made you tug on them as he licked the sides of your thighs, holding your legs open for him. "I'll make it up to you," Yuta said, inserting a finger inside of you as you hissed at his touch. "Just make sure you'll be moaning my name the entire night."

--

When the sun shined the next day, you found yourself stuck in Yuta's arms. With your every move, he only tugged you closer to him with a groan, even placing his head on top of yours. "Yuta, wake up."

"Shut up." He replied, his long hair covering his eyes as he buried himself on your shoulders. "It's the weekend, no classes. I can stay in, that's the rule."

Another rule that was made between the two of you, when you accidentally slept in at his apartment. Both of you were late at that time, taking a special exam where both of you still managed to exceed it.

Since then, staying until the morning is a big no-no. If it's a weekday, one of you will go home after hooking up. Sometimes it's you practically sprinting out of his apartment as it was a common area for the students of your university. And sometimes it was Yuta doing above and beyond of becoming a ninja, tiptoeing out your dorm to make sure Yunjin won't see- if she wasn't staying with Johnny.

"Then at least let me go, I have things to do." You said, tapping his arm. Yuta grumbled but finally removed his arm from you and rolled over to his side.

You stood up and wore the clothes you were supposed to wear the night before, picking them up from the floor near your door where no one bothered to close.

You took your laptop from your desk and placed it on the dining table not far from your bedroom, brewing yourself a coffee and boiled water on the stove for ramen.

You opened your laptop while waiting for your food, remembering your phone on the counter, and stood up to take it, going back to your seat with your laptop already on.

Upon opening your phone, you saw you received a text message from your mom and Yunjin. Both of them checking up on you, sending the same reply to both of them seconds later. A simple 'I'm okay, mom'

You then started working on the layout of your diorama, examining the notes you wrote to yourself from your previous edits. "Your water is boiling."

"Then do something about it." You answered nonchalantly at Yuta, who huffed but then took two packs of ramen from your cupboard and put them in.

"You didn't even make me a coffee?" Yuta asked, an offended tone on his voice as he brewed himself a coffee after he fixed yours up. "Is this how you treat your guest? If I have someone staying over I at least make some effort."

You only hummed at his words, way too focused on your layout. Yuta then put two plates on the table, placing one beside your laptop, followed by your coffee and then the pot of ramen.

Yuta eyed you when he was eating, seeing you were still busy on your laptop and besides the small sip of your coffee, you didn't pay much attention to him or the food. "You're not eating."

"I have to go to the grocery later, I have to finish this." You answered, moving your mouse while still looking intently on your screen.

"I'm coming with you." And with this, Yuta managed to get your eyes removed from the laptop. "I need to get groceries too, I'm running out of them."

"Then go on your own?" You answered, saving your edits before closing the software and finally eating the ramen, transferring some on your plate.

The murmurs continued even if the King stood in front of them, not saying a word. Not moving. His guards standing by beside him with a stoic expression, though his commander in chief was doing his best to suppress a smile.

"I, King Sejong VII from the Kingdom of Pluvia, have called upon this gathering to address a serious event that has transpired at 10 PM of last night." The voices of the villagers died down, their attention now to the man standing in front of them. "Yesterday, we captured a culprit hailing from the Kingdom of Saxum, Park Seonghwa. He posed as a painter, posed nothing but a threat." He took a deep breath, his head bowing down. "After we captured him trying to steal items from the palace, he managed to escape and took with him the Princess. Where we found her body at Lake Faxon, drowned and beaten."

"The princess's body has been recovered, but not of the culprit. A search is still ongoing. A closed casket funeral will be held for the princess at the palace grounds where everyone is encouraged to attend to pay respect to our passed princess." Murmurs and whispers started between the villagers again. Some saying how it was a tragedy, while some beg to differ. Though, none of them outright told it to the King.

The 'grieving' king then spun around and exited the crowded area, walking towards his carriage while some people who the King passed by offered their condolences.

He made his way inside his carriage not long after, Byeol following through and sitting down across the King before ordering its chauffer to start moving. "This must be a hard time for you."

"I beg your pardon, your majesty?" Byeol asked as he turned to look back to his King, setting aside his sword as he leaned back to see his King with his head down.

"You and y/n are quite close, her departure must have struck you hard." Byeol tried his best not to chuckle, looking around and making sure he wouldn't meet the figure of his King, he would just start laughing.

"Yes, your majesty. It is a tragedy. Nobody saw it coming."

As soon as they arrive at the palace, the king went straight to the room, not even bothering to greet his staff who was arranging the 'funeral' for his daughter. As the door of his bedroom shut loudly, Nali and Minseo visibly startled at this, almost dropping the flowers they were holding.

"He seems to be furious, did anything happen during the gathering?" Nali asked in a hushed tone when Byeol approached them, Minseo listening in as well. "Did he get rocks thrown at him?"

"Unfortunately not," Byeol answered, leaning his head down so he can talk to the two girls properly. "But before we left, he found a painting at Seonghwa's old room that made him mad."

--

"It's been a long time since I last saw you, Princess."

"It's good to see you again, eommonie." You greeted the woman with a hug, Seonghwa standing behind your back as he bowed to the man beside the woman.

You broke the hug and pulled Seonghwa to your side. "This is Seonghwa, he's a painter."

The Three went on to introduce themselves, mentioning along the way how they were Byeol's parents. And as it turns out, this was their old home. "We promise to pay you back for your kindness and hospitality," Seonghwa said after the introductions, your hands wrapping around his arm.

"Aish, you don't need to think about that for a while. Just rest here and I'll give you a tour around town so you can also meet the people." The woman ushered her husband, who then hastily gave Seonghwa two bags.

Seonghwa took them with a bow. "They're clothes from Byeol's closet and some are from the ones we found around town, we figured your leave would be in a hurry."

"Also, there's food in there. But if you ran out, you can always come to us. We can give you a lot of our harvest."

"That's way too much, thank you." You replied to the lovely couple, Seonghwa saying something similar as you both bowed at them.

"Now go rest up, we'll come by again later to check up on you."

As the couple left you, going to their which is just not far from yours, you and Seonghwa went to your bedroom where he placed the bags on the floor, your body slumping on the soft bed with a groan.

You rolled to the side and watch Seonghwa open the bag, seemingly contemplating if he should start arranging the clothes since there are empty drawers in the room. "Hwa."

He snapped his head in your direction, seeing your outstretched hands towards him with a tired smile. "Yes? Do you need anything?"

"I need you to rest with me, come here. The clothes can wait darling." You smoothened the empty sheets next to you, Seonghwa chuckling as he walked towards the bed, removing his shoes before laying down next to you.

He pulled you close to him, resting your head on top of his chest as he brushed your hair while looking at you. "You're really beautiful." He said softly, the rays of the morning sun making your skin and hair glow. "But I do think you're wearing way too many clothes, don't you think?"

You playfully swatted his arm, Seonghwa laughing at your gesture but hugging you closer to him. You then felt his fingers loosening the straps of your corset which you let him do so while you run your fingers on his chest. "I think you look beautiful too."

"You know what's more beautiful than both of us?" Seonghwa asked, continuing his actions to your clothes, humming at his actions as you propped yourself up to look at him.

He looked down with a mischievous grin. "Our kids."

"We just got here, Park Seonghwa." You sat up, straddling his upper body as your corset now fell loosely on you, Seonghwa chuckling at your reaction, his hands holding your waist.

"You're right. I want to spend a little bit of my time with you alone." Seonghwa said, admiring you on top of him with a drunken haze, feeling his hands slightly squeeze your waist. "But I'm serious, you have way too much clothing on you right now. Aren't you hot?"

"Fine, I'll change." You said, leaning down to peck his lips and before you could get off of him, he gripped you tighter. "What now?"

"I'll remove it anyway later, no need to change." His hands went to your back where he undid the last lace of the corset, smiling at your reaction when his fingers traced your bareback. "I wish I could draw you like this."

Your eyes sparkle at this, clapping your hands before fishing something out from your pocket, handing Seonghwa his notebook containing his drawings.

His eyes widened, sitting up while holding your back as to not push you off balance. He took it from your hands and sure enough, it was his notebook. "How many more items are in your pocket, princess? Did you brought the entire kingdom with you?" He asked in amazement, flipping through the pages.

You giggled, putting your hands on his shoulder. "When they released me, I went to your room in hopes that I could see you there." You told him, a sad tone in your voice as you recalled seeing an empty and almost cleaned-out room. "The only thing left there was the painting you made of me you intended to keep, your first painting of us, and this." You nodded towards the notebook in his hands. "I figured this thing is easier to fit in my pockets."

He pulled you close to him to meet his lips, letting his notebook fall to the ground without a care. You gripped his shoulders, your nails digging on his shoulders as he now completely removed your corset.

He broke the kiss and looked at you intently, your foreheads touching each other. He brushed your hair back as he breathed heavily. "I will never leave you again, even in the next life."

"That's comforting to know, Seonghwa. Considering we just threw our entire life away to start a new one." You wrapped your hands around his neck. "You're worth every breath. I love you, Seonghwa."

He kissed you with this, laying you down on the bed with him hovering above you. "I love you, y/n. With horns or a halo, with or without a crown. I love you."

That was the start of your first day of forever. You and Seonghwa being loved by everyone in the village, with or without a title. Seonghwa landing a job at a local school while you helped out with the hunters of the village, enjoying their surprised looks when they saw your skills with a sword or even a bow and arrow.

All the while, your father became haunted by a painting of you. One in the room of Seonghwa, one where he expertly captured your true self, standing in an open field with a fearless look on your face.

--

After a couple more minutes of them taking your measurements, you were finally excused and with that, you wanted nothing more than to go and see your painter. Especially with only 2 days left before the wedding, a lot of people are now in the palace.

As you walked into the hall, you heard laughter from one of the rooms, making you stop in your tracks. You looked to the side and saw a door which was opened slightly. With a few cautious steps, you approached the door and saw San and his advisor, Jiwoo.

San was looking down at her adoringly, both of them adorning a smile while Jiwoo tightened San's ribbon. He was saying something to her, assuming it was funny when she laughed again.

But ever since you spent some time with Seonghwa, you learned nothing really needs to be funny to make you smile and laugh if it comes from him.

"Princess." You snapped out of it and looked up, seeing San and Jiwoo now looking at you. Both of them looking flustered, Jiwoo even slightly worried, the clipboard now on her hand which was only tucked in under her armpit earlier. "I didn't know you're there, is there a problem?"

"No, I'm sorry for barging in. I just finished my fitting and I came across you." You smiled, one that was hopefully apologetic. "I'm going to go now."

"No need, princess. We're done anyways." Jiwoo said, her voice sweet and small. She smiled at you before facing San back, both of them sharing a longing look as they both bowed at each other.

Jiwoo walked towards the door where you are, smiling at you before opening the door for you to let you enter. You thanked her as you got in, even closing the door after she left.

Now looking back at San, you saw him facing the mirror where he was fixing his brown tie, the color of their kingdom. Similar to the blue detailing and lining your gown possess.

You stepped towards him and fixed his tie, smoothening its sides. "This seems unfair, you've seen me in my suit before the wedding and I haven't seen you." You chuckled at his comments, moving to the side so he can look at himself.

"If that's what you're wearing, I might have to fight to cancel this wearing." He looked at you as if offended through the mirror, placing a hand on his chest dramatically.

You turn to look at him. "You look great, the color suits you." You smiled, San now feigning pride as he looked at his brown suit, a brown vest inside with a white button-up underneath.

"You're kinder than my brother." You nodded while laughing, seeing Jongho would definitely not be that one kind younger brother everyone would want, but everyone seems to adore.

"Are you close with Jiwoo? You both seem to get along well."

"Aren't you with Minseo?" San asked, his head lowering as he removed his blazer, loosening up his tie after tossing the blazer at the bed to the side. "Shouldn't you be close with your consultant?"

"I know Minseo, but we're not close." You said, going around to sit down at San's bed. "Are you friends from back home?"

He removed his vest, only leaving him his slacks and button-up shirt, which he unbuttoned the sleeves so he can roll it up to his elbows. "Yes, you can say that." He answered simply, noticing how he avoided eye contact with you.

"I'm not going to be mad, you know?"

After a few more silence, he finally added. "Jiwoo and I met 2 years ago when my father hired her to be in charge of palace events. We've grown close, she's the only ever person I became friends with." He turned to look at you know, both of his sleeves now up to his elbows. "We haven't seen each other for a while, I think it's been 8 months since we last saw each other. I never truly forgot about her."

He took a chair and sat down right across from you. "You like her." You smiled at this, your voice lowering to make sure no one else can hear.

He chuckled, a faint shake of his head. "I don't know, do you like Seonghwa?" Now, it was San's turn to smile and tease, staring at you with a smirk. "I've seen the way you look at him, also how you sneak in his room at late hours of the night."

"Why are you out of your bed at late hours of the night?" You questioned back, your head tilting to the side.

Before he could answer, he closed his mouth, seemingly trying to come up with an excuse. "Touche, Princess."

You proudly stood up, San following your figure and as you stepped closer to him, he also stood up. You both locked eyes, sharing a look with each other, one that looks like an apology.

"We can't get married, San." You mumbled softly, San nodding to you.

"I know." He sighed deeply, hands finding their way to his pockets. You turn to leave, opening the door to his room but stopped when he spoke. "I'll see you at the end of the altar, Princess."

--

After walking down the stairs, you immediately attached yourself to Jongho, the only other person you know in the familiar, but also unfamiliar sea of people.

Unlike his brother, you know Jongho quite well. Both of you catching each other on hiking trails and even training lessons from different villages.

With San still upstairs, you slid between Jongho and a man you have no idea is who. "Your Highness, it's an honor to meet you. You look lovely."

"Thank you." You let the strange man take hold of your hands and place it on his lips. "I'm Kang Yeosang, a royal advisor to the Choi's"

"That explains why you look like a royal yourself." Yeosang chuckled at your words, bowing his head slightly as a silent thank you. "It's nice meeting you, Mr. Kang. I hope to see you around more."

Yeosang then turned to his heels, not waiting where he would go as you turned to Jongho. "Does all your staff look like that?"

"You are going to be married to my brother, it feels illegal talking to you like this." You shrugged, taking a glass of champagne from a waitress who passed by. "Speaking of my brother, where is he? You didn't behead him for Yeosang, have you?"

"Oh please, he's there with his advisor." You looked at Jongho, his reaction making you confirm your theories that he knows about Jiwoo and San.

Jongho shook his head with a disbelief laugh. "I'm so happy I'm not the oldest one. I can't marry you." You playfully punched his shoulder as he drank, chuckling to himself as you ranted.

While Jongho was telling you a story, something about a statue that mysteriously appeared out of nowhere, your eyes found Seonghwa who was standing at the end of the hall, surrounded by aristocrats but his eyes were on you.

Finally meeting each other's eyes, he smirked before his attention darted back to the men. You turned back to Jongho, handing him your empty glass. "Save me a seat for the banquet later?"

"Yes, hey, where are you going?" He asked as you made your way to the sea of people, not muttering a response as he will not hear it anyways.

You finally made it in front of the group of people, now seeing there's also a couple of women. When they saw your figure, they bowed, except for Seonghwa of course. "Princess, you look lovely."

"Thank you, are you having fun? Do you need anything?" The guest shook their head no while continuing to compliment you and even your attire.

"I was just told that this is your painter, the art and artist looks handsome, noh?" The woman said, slightly older and who seems like a wife of the man closest to you.

"Yes, I agree." You answered, not even looking at Seonghwa but feeling his intense stare. "He was also accommodating to my needs."

"What the princess wants, the princess gets," Seonghwa said simply, earning a crowd of laughter from you. Not knowing he was referring to something a lot more than a painting.

You then excused yourself minutes later, not enjoying the crowd anymore, and would want to be in your little room for a moment. Seonghwa, who was talking to another man about his painting, looked at you as you said your goodbyes.

He watched as your figure ascended the stairs, telling something to Nali who nodded, walking down the stairs with a smile as if nothing happened.

Seonghwa then excused himself moments later, making sure no one noticed him as he walked up the stairs and slowly but carefully, knocked on your door.

"Nali, I'm alright. I'm just feeling a little dizzy is all." You answered inside, not even bothering to remove your heavy gown as you laid back on the bed.

Seonghwa turned the knob and saw it was open, walking inside to found your eyes closed with your arms over your head. "Nali, I promise to be down during the banquet."

"Not Nali," Seonghwa replied, closing the door behind him and locking it. You opened your eyes and looked to the side, smiling to yourself at the sight of Seonghwa.

He was wearing a figure-fitting, all-black suit. He removed his blazer as he approached you, tossing it on the chair nearby before laying down beside you, placing a kiss on your forehead. "Are you okay?"

"Yes, just the crowd is making me anxious is all." You answered, sitting up so you can prop yourself on his chest, one of his hands behind his head while the other on your back. "You seem to be enjoying yourself downstairs, a lot of clients lining up."

He chuckled, your fingers tracing his jawline as he looked up at your ceiling. Similarly, his fingers started drawing on your back. "I don't care who they are and what they do, you are always going to be my favorite muse.

You smiled at his words, then felt sadness rush through you. You wanted to distance yourself from Seonghwa, it would hurt less. But still, it will hurt nonetheless.

You sat up, staring at Seonghwa whose eyes were closed with his lips curled into a smile. You pecked his nose, then to his lips. But then, you decided to deepen it, cradling his face into your hands.

Making sure that even as the years pass by, your lips won't forget the way it feels on yours, how his touch affects your skin, how his eyes hold the entire universe.

You kissed him as if it's your last, and it was.

You kissed him to not forget. To make sure that even in the next life, his kiss and his touch would still feel familiar.

Your thoughts overwhelmed you, not realizing you were already sobbing while placing kisses on his face, Seonghwa immediately sat up when tears fell on his face, encasing you in his arms as you sobbed in his chest.

"Y/n, what's wrong? Are you okay?" He whispered while holding you tightly, brushing your hair while your arms wrapped around him. "Talk to me."

"I don't want to get married." You said finally, the words so foreign, never saying it out loud until now. You pulled back from Seonghwa, seeing he also had tears forming in his eyes. "I don't want to get married if it's not with you, not now, not ever."

"I know, I know." He hushed, taking you in for a hug. "I can't go on with my life without you anymore as well. I love you." Seonghwa said, his voice cracking.

Seonghwa pulled you back, making you face him. "I love you, y/n."

"I love you too." Both of you shared a kiss, one gentle and one that can last this lifetime and the next. His hands-on your waist while yours was on his neck, pulling him closer to you.

You felt your back press on the metal of the end of your bed, but then the door busted open, making you and Seonghwa jump up from your bed, Seonghwa pushing you to his back.

Entered your father with his other men, Byeol a worried look on his face while your father had a look of pure anger on his face. "What is the meaning of this?! Is he taking advantage of you?!" Your father stormed in, grabbing Seonghwa by the collar as both of you yelled protest.

"No! Father, stop! Don't touch him!" You jumped up from the bed and got in between your father and Seonghwa, who was yelling at you to step back.

Eventually, your father let go of Seonghwa, watching at you with fire in his eyes as you went in front of Seonghwa, caressing his face while asking if he's okay. "I'm okay. Y/n, you need to go, you can get hurt."

"I'm not leaving you."

With your face still turned to Seonghwa, you didn't notice your father order the guards to take you. But before they can hold you, Byeol stepped in and carried you out, holding you high in the air while you kicked and screamed.

The rest of the guards went to Seonghwa, you screamed as they held his arms and punched him, your father shaking his head as he looked away.

You yelled at Byeol as both of you got out of your room, tossing and turning while he struggled to walk to the other end of the hall where there are still multiple vacant rooms. "Byeol! Let me go, please. They're going to kill him." You yelled, pinching his arm and even digging your nails into them.

At the end of the hall, you saw San rushing up from the stairs with a worried look on his face. "Y/n? What's going on? What happened?"

"San, help me! Help me, please. They're going to kill Seonghwa." You yelled, Byeol not uttering a word since as he quickly put you in a vacant room, the words so heavy and sudden San didn't get the chance to take it all in.

As soon as Byeol put you down on the bed, you rushed to the door but he was faster and locked the door, knocking and yelling at him, even begin. While pressing your head to the door, you heard San arguing with the guards.

you woke up early, the sun not even shining. Usually, the earliest you can be found out your bed is at 6 am.

Yet, here you are at Seonghwa's room at 4 am. Not being able to sleep from your shared kiss, not being able to erase the feeling of his lips from yours, you didn't want Seonghwa to be away from you ever again.

You sat in front of his study, Seonghwa still sleeping soundly behind you, his surprisingly muscular, honey-skinned back on display while he hugs a pillow.

Adorable.

You didn't want to snoop, but when you entered you noticed his sketchbook open. And after approaching it, you realized it was sketches of you. It was not just simple sketches you would expect someone to make when making a painting; it was of you in different scenarios.

There's a sketch of you during fencing when practicing archery, riding a horse, talking with San in the garden, descending the stairs, doing absolutely the most mundane things.

At the latest addition, it was a page filled with a sketch of you in a single moment. There's a sketch of you adoring the fishes you fed yesterday, you smiling while walking in a field of flowers, and seemingly from Seonghwa's point of view, moments before your kiss. Closed eyes, hands on his arms, with expecting lips with your chest breathing heavily.

It was interesting looking at the sketches, let alone studying them the way you are doing now.

With minimal light, the sketch looked just as details.

You are a person with many talents, but unfortunately drawing and any form of art isn't your forte. Because if it has, you would've drawn your Seonghwa.

"Y/n? What are you doing?" You jumped slightly at Seonghwa's sudden voice echoing the room.

You shut his notebook and placed it on the table, standing up from the chair, trying your best to look as innocent as you can.

Seonghwa sat up, rubbing his eyes while he groaned. His hair was everywhere, a blanket draped over his legs. "Is everything okay?"

"Yes, I'm sorry for coming in unannounced. I couldn't sleep." You rambled, feeling heat rush up your cheeks with Seonghwa's bare body right in front of you.

If Seonghwa wasn't half asleep, you would know he wouldn't stop talking about you ogling his body the way you are doing right now.

"Well, to be accurate, I slept. Then I woke up, and it's too early. I just," Seonghwa squinted his eyes and look at you. Breathing a sigh, you put your hands beside you. "I just wanted to see you."

Seonghwa smiled at this, expecting him to say something to tease you but instead, he threw his blanket on the side and stood up.

You watched him stand up and stretched, showing his body that was just as impressive as his back. He threw on a white robe but didn't bother closing it.

You felt yourself have difficulty breathing when he stood in front of you, his hands wrapping around your body while admiring you. "You can say the words, princess. I know you missed me."

You scoffed and rolled your eyes at his words, moving your head to the side but then was brought back by his hands, brushing your stray hair behind your ear.

He cupped your cheeks and leaned down, giving you a gentle kiss on the lips. Waiting to feel his touch since last night, you instantly melted in his arms.

He held you tighter when you deepened his kiss, pulling him down by the neck. Seonghwa removed himself from your lips, opting to kiss your neck instead while his hands roamed your body on top of your sheer dress.

"Seonghwa.." You breathed heavily, gripping his forearm tightly to make sure you won't both fall down.

Hearing you say his name like that, with want and lust, made him forget about morals and decency.

He removed himself from you, earning a whine from you after feeling the absence of his lips.

But before you can utter a word, he gave you another kiss on the lips before lifting you up, your legs instantly wrapping around his waist as he gently placed you down the bed.

Now laying down his bed, Seonghwa leaning over you with his face buried on your chest, your hands instinctively pushed his robe away while the other played with his hair.

He stood up and removed his robe, smirking to himself at your reaction before returning to face you. His face softening while holding your body softly. "Are you sure about this? We can stop-"

"I have never been more than okay." You leaned forward and placed a kiss on his lips, your hands holding his face, looking at him with reassurance. "I am okay, as long as it's with you, Park Seonghwa."

He smiled at your words before nodding, kissing you longingly but when he pulled back, his expression changed back to lust, gone was his caring and nervous self.

"I hope you're not used to getting your way of things, princess." The kiss he placed on your forehead was more of a threat, his bringing your hands over your hand where he pinned it with his.

You squirmed, moaning out his name, breath uneven as you watch Seonghwa lift your dress with one hand.

His hands trailed on your stomach, down to your thighs, then on your clothed area.

Seonghwa let go of your hands and harshly grabbed on your hips, pulling it at the edge of the bed where he knelt down, his hands hooking under your knees.

"Seonghwa, please." Your hands grabbed at the sheets of the bed when you felt him place butterfly kisses on your still-clothed core.

You heard him chuckle, then tsked. "I have never met a princess who begs someone to touch them."

He pulled your panties down, eyes locking with you as he pulled it down slowly, a smirk growing on his face.

He took your hands and placed them on his hair, where you grabbed a handful and tugged on it quite harshly when he attached his lips on your thighs, before moving to your core.

You may have woken up early, but Seonghwa made sure you were tired enough to fall back asleep. -- Waking up in a different bed than yours is a new feeling. The sheets weren't as soft, the bed is smaller, there are fewer pillows. But still, it was comfortable.

You groaned as you opened your eyes, stretching your arms as light, feathery kisses were placed on your face. "Wake up, princess. We're going to be in big trouble if someone finds us like this."

"No." You mumbled, eyes closing again even after seeing Seonghwa. Now in the light, his face and demeanor was nothing of earlier, no more lust and want, only love.

He chuckled as you pulled him down by the neck, letting his head fall on your chest as his hands anchored himself to not put all his weight on you. "Let's stay like this for a while."

With your whining voice and gentle caress on his back, Seonghwa seriously considered it. But shook his head when the realization dawned on him, placing a kiss on your lips after lifting his head up. "We can't, maybe next time."

He stood up and pulled the blankets off, laughing as you curled yourself up in bed instead. But with his hands lifting you up, you had no other choice but to wake up. "Good morning, Seonghwa."

"Good morning, princess. I hope I helped you get some sleep." He greeted back when you could finally stand on your feet, tiptoeing to place a kiss on his lips.

You pulled back moments later, though his hands continued to draw circles on your clothed back, Seonghwa dressing you up after he woke up.

You wrapped your arms around him, resting your head on his chest where you felt his heartbeat. With your new angle, looking by the sides, you saw his painting of you.

You separated yourself from him, Seonghwa letting go of you with confusion but then watched as you approached the now finished painting. He watched while you ran your fingers to the gold frame, staring at your portrait in awe.

You were expecting something bland and the usual portrait with you sitting down on a chair with a plain background. But in this painting, you were standing on the familiar field of flowers while you stood in the middle with your blue dress.

And if looked closely enough, the image of a bow hanging behind your shoulder and a sword beside it would be seen. And on your hand was an image of a dagger, your dagger. The faint white handle with the veins trailing it.

"Seonghwa, it's beautiful. This is perfect." His hands wrapped around your waist, placing his head on your shoulder. Your hands rested on top of his, which was on your stomach.

"I'm sure it's not the type of painting your father would like, which is why I painted that one too just in case." He motioned to the painting behind it, the one in a Silver frame where you sat with a neutral look on your face, a light blue background behind you while adoring a white gown.

You chuckled as you contrasted the two, "I somehow wish your father won't accept this." He motioned to the painting in a gold frame. "I would want to keep this for myself."

"Why? Are the multiple sketches of me in your notebook not enough for you?" You asked teasingly, remembering his multiple sketches of you.

He hmmed, pushing our straps to the side where he placed a kiss. "I see you're using your power to get your needs, you did that twice to me now. All in one night." You only chuckled at this, one of your hands running on his hair.

You bask in the silence, feeling Seonghwa sway you gently. Then, he returned your straps and placed his head on top of yours. "I think I'm not going to present this painting, I'm going to keep this to myself. I think."

"Greedy."

"I would need it. It's a great way to remember you." You laughed at his words, he said it as if you're dying and all. You removed yourself from his arms and faced him, about to tease him about it but he beat you to it. "After all, you are going to be married by the end of the week."

Your smile faded and your face fell, the realization hitting you. Seonghwa placed a kiss on your forehead, trying his best to comfort you. "Maybe in another lifetime, y/n."

"Why wait for that long when we can do it now?" You asked, not letting go of his hands, "I can say no, I can protest enough to make them have no choice-"

He shook his head, a sad smile on his face. "That can never happen."

"It will if you wanted it just as much as I do!" You raised your voice, looking at him as if offended. You let go of his hands, which then Seonghwa held immediately, sensing your distress. "If you wanted it to happen just as much as I do-"

"Wanting is not enough." He said in a tone much different than yours.

"I can't believe you can give up on this when we haven't even tried yet." You shook your head and remove your hands from him. You stepped away, Seonghwa trying to console you. "Maybe you are just a painter after all."

When you opened the door, you found Nali just about to knock. Startling both of you, "Y/n? I went to your room and you weren't there-"

"Yes, I decided to check the painting of Seonghwa. I woke up not that long ago."

Nali nodded, glancing a look at Seonghwa who clearly has a forced smile on his face. "Breakfast is served. Your father just arrived and it would be nice to grace us with your presence, San is already downstairs."

After changing taking a quick bath and changing into your new clothes, you went down with Nali just right beside you, telling you all about the consultants that the two kings brought back.

If she suspected something between you and Seonghwa, she didn't show. But knowing Nali, with the way she has been talking more and kept fidgeting, she has her suspicions. But, she was also your friend for yours and learned not to question you, especially in times like this.

You greeted your father with a smile as you step into the dining room, giving him a hug then moved to San's father who you also greeted with a hug.

With both kings on the end of the table, San sitting down on his father's side as you settled beside yours, you also noticed two girls sitting at the table.

"I thought you were going to arrive in a couple of days?" You asked, the maids serving you food while you looked at your father.

"Yes, but travel went faster than expected." Your father answered, motioning to the girls. "Y/n, this is Minseo and Jiwoo. I think you're already acquainted with Minseo," You nodded, bowing your head to Minseo, she was the one who arranged your mother's funeral. Your eyes then moved to Jiwoo, who also bowed. "And that's Jiwoo." With the new unfamiliar face, you put two in two together and took note that she's from the Choi's.

With this, you also noticed how San had a gloomy look on his face. But when he met your eyes, he smiled simply, though his entire demeanor suggested he was possibly dealing with something untasteful.

"Yonjun, this is Seonghwa. He's the painter who I hired for y/n." You heard Seonghwa greet the Yonjun and your father, before taking a seat beside you.

"I hope the painting is coming together?" Your father asked, sneaking a glance at you as he sipped his coffee. "Maybe even, completed?"

"Yes, your majesty. I have completed the princess' painting, I would like to ask your presence in my room so you can take a look."

Your father nodded and smiled widely at the news. Your head hanging low, avoiding eye contact with Seonghwa. But then, you felt his hand finding yours, squeezing your hand underneath the table.

You didn't remove your hands or swatted him away. The touch providing you comfort, even false assurance.

"That's great. Have you seen it?" You snapped out of it, meeting your father's eyes as he anticipated your answer.

Seonghwa squeezed your hand gently, and in your peripheral vision, you saw him taking a sip of his coffee. "Uhh, yes. I went there earlier this morning, it's magnificent."

"If you won my daughter's heart then I have no other choice." You squeezed his hand with this, both of you tensing up. But when your father laughed, you just followed through, the same with Seonghwa. "What time do you want to return to Saxum? I assume you have other business to attend there, we've kept you here longer than expected and I'm sure your king is missing your presence."

You looked at Seonghwa, your worry, and expression too strong to be able to mask. But thankfully, Seonghwa still remained calm and collected, though not being able to say a clear answer.

"Uhh," He chuckled, looking at you for help. "Tomorrow-"

"I don't want Seonghwa to go just yet." You turned back to your father, letting go of Seonghwa's hands. You glanced at San and his father, feeling sets of eyes on you. You cleared your throat before proceeding. "I grew fond of Seonghwa, I would like to have him in the wedding. That would be alright, right?" You glanced at San, who first looked at Seonghwa but then nodded.

"Me too, I think Seonghwa would be a great addition to the guest."

"I don't think so, a letter arrived earlier." You nodded at Nali's words, both of you reaching the bottom of the staircase where you found San waiting at the end.

Greeting him with a kiss on the cheek, your eyes glanced at Seonghwa's who was by the doorframe of the living room, immediately removing his eyes from you when you caught him staring.

You haven't spoken to him for 2 days, besides the usual courtesy and instructions, as to not make San wonder.

But you did manage to peek at his room one afternoon, seeing he was sketching a person, who seems like it's you. And if that's the case, that means Seonghwa's time in the palace is almost up.

"Princess, good morning. I received a letter from your father." Byeol said, handing you a white envelope, already opened neatly. "It states that he will be extending his absence, he is currently at Panama to discuss some ventures." Your eyes scanned the awfully professional letter, not noticing Byeol moved his eyes from yours to San who was looking over your shoulder to read the letter.

"Prince San, your father shares the same sentiments. We have confirmed both of the king's safety and arrival with our men, they're not at Panama as we speak."

"Good work, thank you, Byeol." San said, removing his eyes from the letter you were still reading. San smiled at Byeol who returned it with a bow, San doing the same.

"Wait, Byeol stay." You said immediately when your eyes read the last paragraph of the letter, Byeol turning back to face you.

You handed the letter to San, whose eyes scanned the material as well. "Are the contents in the letter true?"

"Yes, princess."

"Are you sure?"

"Yes, I'm sure." You wanted to ask more, but then realized nothing will make the words in the letter disappear. "There's the seal of the palace, signed by your father-"

"I can see that, thank you Byeol." Byeol bowed at you before turning around to exit the palace, where he met up with two other guards.

You faced San who had a stoic look on his face, the letter in his hands being held limply.

Both of you stared at each other, sharing a familiar but also distant look. The words on the letter making everything final.

And when we arrive in a week's time, preparations for the wedding are expected to be finalized. Both Prince San and Princess Y/N will be wed 2 days after our arrival, we have already alerted consultants of our choosing about the wedding and they are expected to arrive a day after this letter has arrived to you.

--

Though you and San are getting along better, possibly more as you found yourself looking for him at any given chance, the news was a little dragging, to say the least.

You expected to have a few months left, not at the end of next week. You weren't ready, and clearly is San. His bravado crumbling after reading the letter, handing it to you before retreating up to his room.

You did the same, in a way. You went outside to look for Byeol and requested his presence, knowing what you meant when he saw your sword behind you.

"San is a good person, I think he's going to be an okay husband." Byeol said, sitting down beside you with his sword falling to his other side.

You pushed the stray hair away from your face, breathing heavily while waiting for the maids to have that water you requested. "I don't care if a sear told me that he's the one, the news just caught both of us off guard." You turn around and thanked the maid who handed you a water, leaving both you and Byeol alone when you had the water secured in your hands.

"But I bet if it's a specific painter, you wouldn't have any opposition." You glared at him immediately, the water in your mouth ready to be spit out.

"Is it drugs? Is it that weird looking bush near the river?"

"You haven't spoken to him in days, haven't you?" Byeol asked, accepting the water you handed him.

You shook your head. "No, I don't see any reason to talk to him." You answered, squinting your eyes as the sun was shining brightly.

"You've been awfully close to him on his first few days of his stay, what changed?" You only shrugged at this, not looking at him. "Is it perhaps because, you realized he is more than a painter to you?" Not wanting to be annoyed, you still haven't met Byeol's eyes, looking around except to him.

Byeol on the other hand, had a teasing look ok his face, slightly nudging you. "I promised your mother that I will stay by your side no matter what." He said, slinging an arm over your while you let out an annoyed sound. "And if you need to, just say the word and I'll do what pleases you." He then motioned to the side, looking up where he was referring to and saw Seonghwa in his room, sheer curtains down but it was evident he was looking at you.

Meeting your gaze, he looks away and went back to his painting. "I think it's time you have a talk with your painter."

--

Before you can even land a knock on Seonghwa's door, it opened on its own, looking up to meet the eyes of your painter.

"Hi."

"Hello, why are you here?" He asked, shocked in his voice. Sensing you trying to peak inside his room, most probably because of the painting.

He moved to the side, his height making you unable to look over his shoulder. He also only had his door opened by a small inch, just enough to let his head out.

"I, uhm, can I talk to you?" You asked, giving up with trying to look inside and stood straight.

Seonghwa nodded, stepping out of the room which made you walk backwards as well to let him out. He closed the door behind him, you not moving a lot to give you two some space. "What is it? If this is about your painting, it's almost done-"

"No, not that. I don't care about the painting." You said, brushing it off. You could careless if he painted you like a cow or something. "I haven't been a great host, I'm sorry. I should've controlled my emotions better."

Seonghwa only chuckled at this. "It was my fault, I was trying to get a rise out of you. I just got used to doing that to my neighbor." Seonghwa stated, his eyes seemingly remembering his life back home before he went back to you. "He always had the best reactions."

You nodded at this, still not stepping back to provide decent spaces between the two of you. And the way you see it, no one really cares.

"I did heard you have a friend back in your town," You said simply, glad that you can finally have a talk with Seonghwa again. "Well, it seems like you will be seeing him again soon."

"Yes, it seems like that." Both of you shared a look with each other, one that made you lost in each other's eyes.

You felt him inch closer, his hands briefly brushing yours. Before he could advance further, you stepped back.

With your action, it was as if Seonghwa temporarily left and returned. You cleared your throat, a good space now between the two of you. You looked away, your hands playing at your necklace.

Seonghwa looked away too, noticing how he gulped and touched his throat as if it was itchy. "Uhm, y/n I'm sor-"

"Maybe you deserve a little bit of fresh air?" You cut him off, acting as if everything was perfectly normal.

Because it is, nothing happened. Nothing. No. Everything's alright, everything's okay, everything's fine.

Seonghwa just nodded, not able to meet your eyes. "Yes, I think that would be good. Let me change first." You briefly looked at his clothes, a simple pair of dress pants and a long sleeves shirt, almost like sleepwear.

You nodded, then removed your eyes away from him. "Yes, okay. Perfect. I'll be waiting for you outside."

The sight outside definitely made you contemplate if you really needed to go out, San all sweaty with his white shirt clinging to him like skin was very tempting.

You continued to walk out, San still squaring up with Byeol who was still in his gear. You didn’t want to disturb them, which is why you took small steps around them while watching.

In a swift motion, San managed to unarm Byeol. "Getting a little to fast for you, commander?"

"A little to confident is a better term." San chuckled at his reply, picking up Byeol's sword and handing it back to you.

San's eyes then saw traveled to you, giving you a soft smile when he saw you. He gave the sword back to Byeol, who took it from his hands and walked away when he saw you.

"You're finally out your room, glad to see you out and about again." You said, crossing your arms.

San nodded at your words, moving to the side so the sun won't be directly shining on your face. "We can't expect the inevitable, locking myself in my room won't change anything." You nodded at his words. "Remember that promise I made to you? I intend to keep that."

"The one where you said you will be a good husband? Frankly, I don't think you have any choice with that one." You said, shifting your stance. "I think I need to remind you that I my siblings are a sword and dagger."

San chuckled, his eyes disappearing from smiling. "I understand." San was saying something else, but your attention went to Seonghwa who now stepped out.

Almost wearing the same article of clothing, he only changed into a beige color shirt and a matching blazer.

You turn back to San, who also saw Seonghwa. "I will be having a talk with Seonghwa, I will see you later for dinner." You gave San a hasty peck on the cheeks, hiking your dress up to walk towards Seonghwa.

You requested Byeol two horses, one for you and Seonghwa and again, persuaded him to let you two travel alone.

While making these requests, you didn't notice San walk towards you, a seemingly innocent look on his face. "The painting is taking quite long, doesn't it?"

Seonghwa, noticing San was talking to him, turned to him with a smile. "Ah yes, well the princess is a hard muse to say the least."

"That or your talents are just...." San trailed off suggestively, his eyes avoiding Seonghwa who was now looking at him intently. "I'm sure the painting will turn out great." He smiled innocently, meeting Seonghwa's eyes.

"Yes, I'm sure it will, San. Considering the hours the princess spends in my room."

San, whose eyes clearly narrowed at the sign of challenge and disrespect, wasn't able to reply as you called Seonghwa's name.

"Park Seonghwa!" Both men turned their heads to you, who now rode your usual black horse with a white one beside it being held by Byeol.

Seonghwa walked towards the horse, not minding San and only you as he mounted his horse. Thanking Byeol who gave him a cheeky wink, not seen by you and San.

"Are you set?" With a nod, you gently pulled the reigns of the horse which prompted her to start moving, Seonghwa's horse following close behind.

--

It didn't take long before you arrived at your field, the open ground of the forest where you first went when Seonghwa arrived.

After tying the horses at a tree, Seonghwa lend his arm to you which you held, making it easier to walk through the meadow with his help.

However, when you both reached the center, you continuously pulled Seonghwa forward, earning a confused look on his face. "Are you tired, Mr. Painter?"

"Where are we going?"

"Somewhere more secluded." Seonghwa let you pull him through the forest, deciding if you decided to end him at least it will be at a beautiful place.

A few minutes later, you arrived at your destination, a creek with visible Koi fishes swimming around.

Seonghwa watched you amusingly when you let go of his arm, your dress high up your legs as you ran to the water.

You sat down beside the water form, talking excitedly to the fishes while plucking something from the bush beside you, feeding it to the fish which made them crowd arround you.

Seonghwa sat down beside seconds after, smiling widely at the sight in front of him. You may not look as intimidating after getting to know you, but this is a completely different side of you.

In front of Seonghwa wasn't a princess who has great accuracy with weapons, nor someone who can weild any weapon at will. In front of him was a girl who likes fishes.

"My mom told me about this place not long before she died, she wanted to make sure someone keeps feeding the fishes." You said brightly, turning to Seonghwa and handing him some fruits, which turned out to be strawberries.

"Is this for me or for them?" Seonghwa asked, gesturing to the fishes that crowded you.

"Either, you have a couple of them beside you anyways." Seonghwa glanced beside him and saw multiple Strawberry bushes. "But, it's better to be at my Koi's good side."

Seonghwa removed the top of the strawberry and followed your actions, dipping it to the water and watched as the fishes crowded around him too. "They're amazing, are they wild?"

"Yes, we don't know how they managed to survive here but they come here during the afternoon. I planted the bushes when I found out they liked it, carrying fruits here is troublesome when I'm alone."

Seonghwa, mesmerized, plucked another fruit beside him and feed it to the fishes who never seem to be full. "They're beautiful."

"They are, which is why I kept them a secret. I don't want my father taking advantage of them, he might want to keep them for himself."

Seonghwa only nodded at your words, though registered he didn't mind you much attention, his focus on the fishes. Not noticing you were looking at him adoringly, watching while he managed to pet one of the fishes in the head.

Now walking back arm in arm, a struggle as Seonghwa seemed to also want to take home a particular white one.

You both talked about mostly about Seonghwa's life back in his town, with the occasional questions about you.

"And that's how your parents met?"

"Yes, my mother was angry that my father painted her withour her permission and worked at her bar for free for a month." You laughed at this, Seonghwa also furthering the story by saying that's where his dad learned how to drink.

"Is that also why you don't paint people without a clear permission from them?"

He shrugged, "I noticed the paintings my dad made, the ones with willing clients always looked more natural and true." He turned to look at you. "I don't want to waste your beauty, princess. You are by far my favorite muse."

"And why is that?" You asked, stopping your tracks to face him. "Am I that complicated?"

"A little, but mostly because you offer so much more to the eye." He said, again stepping closer to you.

He hesitantly brought his hand up to your face, but made contact with your cheeks when you didn't moved away. "Your eyes are my favorite, you hold thousands of stories in it. It's possibly because you felt hundreds of emotions already."

You felt him step closer, but letting him do so. His eyes looked at yours intensely, his hands caressing your cheek. "Hate, grief, fear, excitement." His eyes traveled down your lips. "And now, I'm witnessing you experience love for the first time."

"Seonghwa.." You tried to deny, or to just stop what was happening, but not making any clear move to distance away yourself from him.

With a knowing look, Seonghwa leaned down and connected his lips with yours.

Once he tasted you, it seems like he doesn't want to let go. One of his hands cupping your hands while the other wrapped around your waist, pressing your bodies together while you wrapped your hands around his neck.

Changbin groaned, his drink obviously taking a toll now. "What's wrong with a trainee? You were a trainee before!"

"When I was a trainee I didn't date my seniors, let alone an artist. The only reason I didn't left that poor guy alone was because guilt was eating me up." You said, slowly moving Changbin's drink away from his reach.

You debuted a year ago as a soloist, mainly as a rapper. So safe to say, your agency gave you more freedom. You were an active datee, as Chan would call you.

From artists, staff, and to even just pepple outside the industry. From the Big Three and those who aren't, you had your fair share of experience with dating. The longest time you have dated someone was 2 months, and you have to break it off because they were getting too attached.

Safe to say, Changbin is a little... concerned. He knows you have a problem settling down, a word he uses to hide the fact that you are scared with commitment.

Which is why when you told him yesterday you decided to not see amyone for a while, he was both happy and sad. Happy because you're giving yourself a break, and sad because, why did you lose interest in dating? Is it a permanent thing? Did you give up on love altogether?

By the time you decided he had way too much to drink, Changbin was destroying his voice at the karaoke. You slipped under his arm and sang along with him, then slid out after successfully taking his drink away from his hands.

You sat back down and opened his phone he made you hold into your purse, a decision you and him found out was a good thing after he almost forgot it at a bar years ago.

You then looked at people who you can call. You don't have your license yet and Changbin drove you here, you were worried abour calling an Uber or something because both of you are idols, it won't be a good look for either of you if it gets out.

You contemplated to ask for Chan's help, but then remembered most of them are with their parents or simply away from the city for a little break.

It's not good.

You were so close to

"Ah Changbin, why don't you have other friends?" You mumbled to yourself, continuously scrolling through his phone. Changbin belting out a high note while singing Chen's "Beautiful Goodbye"

It wasn't good.

You risked calling one of their managers, ready to take in an earful of their lectures but then a name caught your eye.

"Ateez Wooyoung (Friends)"

You remembered Changbin telling you he has other friends besides his members. You didn't believe him then, but you hoped he was saying the truth at this moment.

Changbin who is now dancing to "New Face" by Psy, you typed in a message to Ateez Wooyoung (Friend) and prayed a hail mary as you sent it.

Just as promised, Wooyoung came in a little over 10 minutes later. After the bartender pointed to your direction, he walked towards your direction.

"Hi, thank you so much for doing this. I'm so sorry for disturbing you at this time." You said when he was close enough, Wooyoung shaking his head.

"No need to worry, are you okay though? Do you need water-"

"Yes I'm okay, I didn't get to drink much anyways." You motioned behind you, showing Wooyoung a Changbin who was now sleeping on the table, mic still in hand.

"Now I get why you need a lift. It's alright, I can handle him. Can you just help me with him?"

After closing your tab and Wooyoung managing to grab hold of Changbin who was wrestling with him, you opened Changbin's car and Wooyoung pushed him to the backseat.

After making sure he won't hit his head, you closed the door and got into the front seat . Wooyoung joining you not long after and starting the car, asking you where to go before you pointed out to their dorms.

That night, after finally setting Changbin to his comfortable bed, you told Wooyoung he could stay the night as no one else was in the dorms.

Both of you stayed the night in their dorms, after talking with each other for a little bit more.

He asked for your number the day after, and since then you have been talking nonstop and became a pain in the ass for Changbin.

8 months later, Wooyoung was still as loving and caring. After opening up to him months ago about your fear of commitment, Wooyoung didn't rushed you into making your relationship exclusive.

Wooyoung was understanding, loving, and matched up your energy. He won't tell you directly, but he loves you a lot. It's a word he was scared to tell you out loud because you might get thrown off, so he would show it in different ways.

Meeting up with each other when you both have free time, sending you flowers and others when you have individual schedules, hyping you up in his "Stan Account" where you found out was a BTS fan account.

Eventually, Wooyoung's charms pulled through. Not long after, you said those three words he was afraid to say.

On your 4 months of seeing together, you decided to prepare him a special dinner. Taking him to your dorms and finally telling him how you love him, and how you were ready to be with him... officially.

"I love you, wooyoung. And I can't think of anyone else who can make me feel like this."

Wooyoung never love you less no matter how many months or days pass by. If anything, he loves you more everyday.

And Seonghwa is a fast learner, not that lanky as most would expect as, well, since he's a painter. Though the weight of the sword bothered him at first, it didn't take long until he got the hang of it.

Being the only child, he helped a lot when it comes to errands and chores back then. And since he paints, most of the time the scenery, he walks even hikes trails.

In short, Seonghwa isn't THAT helpless. His rhythm, however is off.

But it has only been 3 days, it's okay. He practices with Byeol and some of his other guards when you and San are out, Byeol took notice of this too. But ultimately, didn't said anything.

Life in the palace is boring, this is the most entertainment he has seen for a while. Will it cause problems and drama? Sure. But still entertaining nonetheless.

After taking a shower, Seonghwa positioned himself in front of his canvas, almost completing his painting of the scenery outside his window. This particular painting took longer than usual because he mixed the scenery of day, afternoon, and night.

While shading the trees, a knock interrupted his door. "Come in." The door creaked open, Seonghwa only glancing momentarily to see you come inside.

After that, he focused back to his painting. "How's your walk with San?"

"Tiring, we did more than just walking this time." You said then sat down beside Seonghwa, the gap between you two almost non-existent.

He droppes his items and looked at you, beads of sweat forming on your forehead while some dripped down on you. Your sweat making your chest glistened, he immediately turned his eyes back up to your face. "What did you just say?"

You wiped your sweat using the sleeves of your shirt. "I said San- oh." Finally realizing how you worded it out earlier, you chuckled. "No, I didn't meant it thay way. We went Apple picking, there's a bunch of those near the river."

With this, Seonghwa turned his attention back to the painting, cranning his neck side to side first. "Is this the same one from last time?"

"Yes." He answered simply, wanting to add on and talk to you about his painting but then stopped himself. He didn't want to grow closer to you.

But in a move that made his breath hitch, you leaned your head to his shoulder, making Seonghwa's hands stop its actions. "What are you doing?"

"I'm tired, please let me rest." You mumbled softly, your eyes closing, not noticing how Seonghwa's heartbeat raced and how he halted his actions.

Finally, he snapped out of it. Shrugging his shoulders to wake you up. "Hey, don't do that. If someone sees you-"

"If someone sees me not being painted on you're the one in trouble. You've been here for almost a week and you haven't done anything." You said, eyes still closed. Finding comfort in his scent.

Seonghwa took a deep breath and shook his head, resuming his painting but now slowly. He felt your chesy rising and falling, your faint and steady breath, it was getting a little too much.

Looking around, Seonghwa got a glimpse of both of your figures by the window. It was just a faint reflection, but stared on for a moment and a vivid picture will form.

Both of you looks like one of Seonghwa's old portaits. He imagined of one day, finding someone who will be with him while painting, someone who will listen with interest about his art. He imagined someone slumping around him, bodies pressing together while he paints. Just like you were now, head resting on his shoulder while he paints.

Seonghwa's lack of movement stirred you back up, pulling your head back while yawning. "I'm disturbing you, aren't I?"

"N-no, no." Seonghwa cleared his throat, then went back to painting. While rubbing your eyes, half-asleep and half-awake, Seonghwa asked. "I really want to paint you."

"I've been telling you to do it." You said, stretching your arms before standing up, sitting down on the edge of his bed.

Since when did his back looked muscular? Not only that, his biceps were definitely taking form.

"I can't paint you, when you don't want to. I said that as well." He said, his strokes resuming its usual speed. "I don't want you to feel uncomfortable. If I paint you while you're feeling uncomfortable, then-"

"Then paint me when you want me to." You laid down on his bed, moving your arms up and down as if creating a snow angel.

Like before, his room hasn't changed despite Seonghwa being here and painting. It still looks tidy, it even looks better because of the paintings that creates a pop of color.

You kept ranting about how he was the stubborn one, not noticing that Seonghwa stood up and was now on the edge of the bed, in front of you.

You sat up at this, looking up at him as he held a neutral look on his face. "If I'm being honest, I think you're just trying to prolong my stay here, princess. Is San not enough for you?"

Your furrowed your eyebrow at this. "That's not true! I'm enjoying my time with San." You said, only making Seonghwa chuckle.

"No, you don't." Both of you just stared at each other for a while. Seonghwa raised his hand, wanting to caress your face. Wanting to feel your skin, the heat on your cheeks, your lips.

"I don't need to prove anything to you." You stood up which made Seonghwa step back, watching as you fixed your dress while he wore a teasing grin.

Heading towards his door, you stopped when he spoke. "The other day, you told me how I looked at you as if I liked you." Seonghwa said while walking, stopping when he was beside you.

"But princess, I think it takes one to know. Why do you look at me the way you can't look at San?"

This is why when you got a call from your boss, you were shocked and immediately turn the camera of your phone off because you were in your pajamas.

"Y/n, look! It's Ateez!" Your boss teased, panning his phone to the boys behind him who greeted you with a smile and wave.

"OPPA I HAVE MY FACE MASK ON!"

Without even a thought, Psy gave your number to Hongjoong. Receiving a text from him that morning, asking if you're available for lunch.

That was how you met Hongjoong, leader of Ateez, and the only kpop boy photocard you collect. It took 2 months before the both of you decided to make it official, a month after you debuted.

Being under a quite famous agency and being mostly looked over by Jessi herself, you have quite a few people looking at you.

Especially after making headlines, headlines about the couple ring you shared with Hongjoong.

"Awh, this is cute." You said while admiring the promising ring Hongjoong gave you for your 6 month anniversary.

Hongjoong looked at your hands with a wide smile on his face, glancing in between your hands and your face as you admired it.

"I have one too." He held up his hand as you looked over, the sunset providing a nice glow to his skin, and also to you.

"We're going to be in so much trouble."

He leaned over to you and placed a kiss, pulling away but his hands still on your arm. His other free hand lifting your hand that contained the ring. "Better prepare to sneak around then."

It took 2 months until people caught on, the only accessory you've been seen wearing daily being your ear piercings and a bracelet from your mother.

You were only seen wearing a ring when performing, and since the ring was also placed at THAT finger, it raised questions.

Hongjoong was slicker than you are, already known to wear multiple accessories so he wasn't suspected. Besides that, he always makes sure to wear another ring. He would often wear the ring as a pendant as well, especially when he's going out or has a schedule.

You didn't confirm nor denied allegations, since no one is being linked to you anyways. Jessi, however, wouldn't let it go.

As soon as Jessi introduced you, she immediately pulled out the headlines of your most recent dating rumor.

"Look at you, all grown up! You're an artist now."

"Unnie, what is that?" You whined, accusing her of setting you up and the rest of the staff.

Jessi kept teasing you but made sure you weren't uncomfortable or she wasn't overstepping a line.

"But in all seriousness, are you dating someone or not?" Jessi knew the answer to this as you and Hongjoong frequently held your dates at the building.

"Here's the thing, I can't give a definite answer to that," Jessi whined at this, but then you followed it up immediately. "By the time this interview is up, I may be dating. Or I may be dating now, then we broke up, so turns out I'm not really dating but said I am. You get me?" Jessi made a confused face, but nodded.

"Ah okay, I get your point." She then crossed her legs and went closer. "But if you are in a relationship, would you want to make it public?" Jessi followed up about how difficult it is to date as artists.

You thought about it, but then shrugged. "I'm not sure, to be honest. I like to show off people close to me in some way, but like you said, dating in the industry is hard." Jessi nodded again at your answer. "I'll probably, like, post a scenery of where we went, but not us in the flesh. Or something like that."

"Ah, so you can have a remembrance."

"Yes, exactly. Also, I'm not the only one in a relationship, if I am in one." You followed it up immediately. "If I'm with someone, whether they're celebrities or not, it's better if both of us agree to make it public. I don't want to be the only one who makes that choice."

Sure, San wasn't all that bad and turns out you both have history, no matter how distant, spending alone time with him still irked you.

You would rather spend time with your timid painter who you enjoy catching off guard, the painter who still refused to paint you.

Still, you wanted to make it up to San. He was arranged into this marriage just as much as you anyways.

After helping the cooks prepare breakfast, you walked up the stairs and knocked on San's door. After hearing a distant "Come In" you opened the door carefully.

San was sitting by the windowsill, gazing outside while wearing his pants and a white undershirt, a sleeveless one.

With the door opening, he turned to yoir direction and smiled at your figure. "Here to greet me good morning?"

You closed the door behind you and walked towards him. "That, and to ask for your presence in the dinning room. Breakfast is ready." You walked towards him, watching as he raises his foot up the windowsill, reaching for his boots to lace them up.

As he was knotting, he looked up at you, just standing there quietly while watchinf him. You were usually talkative, this is the most "Princess" he saw you.

"You can sit down, I might take a while." You nodded and sat down in front of him, at the end of his boot as he finally secured one.

He then moved to the other one, letting his leg fall down the sill to be replaced by the other, folding his legs so he can reach them properly. "Are you okay?"

"Yes, why? Do I look sickly?" You held your face, looking at his window to check your reflection, nothing is wrong. Well, in your eyes you look the same.

"You're awfully quiet, you're scaring me." He said with a chuckle, shaking his head and finally finishing his shoes up.

Now, both of you were sitting side by side, a little closer than yesterday from your bed. "I'm sorry for neglecting you during your stay recently, I've been a horrible guest."

"Is this the part where you make it up to me?" You laughed softly at his teasing tone, seeing he was looking at you fully.

You nodded at this. "I remember you being good at horseback riding, maybe you would like to join me in a little trip in the woods?"

San smiled at this, then nodded. "I would love that. Now, let's eat breakfast. I don't want your staff to get any impressions why you're spending an awfully long time in my room."

"They wouldn't think that, you think way too highly of yourself, Mr. Choi."

--

When Seonghwa walked down to the dinning room, he was expecting to already see you there but instead, it was only Nali and a couple of other palace staff.

He grew comfortable to Nali immediately, she always have stories from outside palace grounds and ones between the staff themselves.

She also has a bubbly personality, much similar to yours. It's probably why you picked her as your advisor.

"Nali, y/n isn't awake yet?" Seonghwa greeted, smiling at the other staff whose names he forgot.

"She's awake, but she said she'll personally ask the prince to breakfast. And it's taking quite a while, we suspect they're most probably, well," Nali looked around her, the maids giggling at the shared idea.

Seonghwa was confused at first but eventually followed their drift. "I doubt that."

Nali and the rest of the staff didn't mind Seonghwa's comments, only laughing at him before resuming their hushed conversations with each other.

He shook his head and insteas grabbed a plate. When the staff scattered around like little bugs, signaling that you and San are near.

"Good morning, Seonghwa. Glad you can join us." San pulled your chair back and when you settled, he sat down beside you.

In usual fashion, Seonghwa took the seat in front of you. He noticed how you also grew comfortable with San, cracking jokes and a couple of smiles.

You then asked the rest of the staff to join you, it's a big table anyways and it's just the three of you. Your uptight father isn't around as well.

Seonghwa, though was being included to the conversation of the other staff, couldn't help but glare at San, and you.

But you both were busy in your little world, acting as if nobody else is around as you both talked in hushed tones.

San put an arm on top of your chair, leaning closer to you while nodding his head at something you said.

Seonghwa's grip on the utensils tightened, so he put his attention to the conversation of the staff, being led by Nali.

It did help, Seonghwa wasn't fully immersed as he could still the both of you in his peripheral vision, how you would brush your hands on San's, the staff provided adequate distraction.

"Nali, do you know where Byeol is?" The conversation of the staff died down, not wanting to interrupt your conversation with Nali.

And besdies, your voice always held his authoritative tone to it. Even if it's not your intention, you voice gets a little commanding.

"Byeol is doing his morning rounds around the village. Do you need amything? I think he should be back soon."

"San and I are taking a little stroll by the Lanu Lake. I would like it to be just the two of us."

"Yeah, I think you should speak to Byeol about that one. Your father did instruct to keep an eye on you while he's gone." Nali replied, which you acknowledged with a nod.

Byeol may be the Kingdom's Commander-In-Chief but his most important role is to look after you.

Seonghwa got to talk to him when he's taking nightly walks around palace grounds, finding out that Byeol is 20, younger than you for a year, and has been training since he was 14. He was made Commander as of your request.

Much like Nali, you and Byeol grew up together, his father being the King's personal bodyguard himself before retiring. Nali was the daughter of the Queen's advisor.

"I don't think you'll have time to go out today." Seonghwa said sternly, it wasn't his usual timid voice. He sounded commanding, even a little annoyed.

Seonghwa took a sip of his coffee, placing it back down the table but not letting go. He then looked at San, then to you. "I don't think you'll be free."

"And why is that?"

"I'm going to paint you, remember?"

--

Seonghwa, despite announcing it to half of the palace staff that he was going to paint you, still did not paint you.

After inviting you up his room, which was surprisingly still tidy despite him painting in here, he announced that he was still not painting you.

You only watched from the side, watching Seonghwa paint his view from the window, a serious look on his face as he glanced up at the painting.

"Are you mad?" He hasn't uttered a word to you ever since saying he wasn't going to paint you, he didn't even look at your way this entire time.

You scoffed and rolled your eyes, uncrossing your arms before standing up from the seat. As you headed to the door, you stopped in your tracks when you heard him put his equipments down.

"Where are you going?"

"Out with San." You turn to face him, despite the annoyance on your face, his face still remained stoic.

"Who said you can go?"

"You haven't been particularly a good guest, Seonghwa." You folded your arms again, staring up at Seonghwa who was now closing the gap between the two of you.

"Would you want me to pay attention to you more, princess?" He smirked while saying so, putting his hands behind his back. "The way I see it, you don't even like San."

"I do. He's my fiance." Nobody in the room can be fooled with that, especially with the way your voice shaked, even straining a bit.

You saw Seonghwa was about to say something, but then he shook his head and step back a bit. "What?"

"Are you going to show him your spot?" You thought about his words, but then realized what he was referring to, the field you both went to on his first day.

As mentioned before, it was your special spot. Only a handful of people know its existence, bringing San there did not cross your mind.

Still, you challenged Seonghwa. "Why would it matter if I did or didn't?"

Finally, Seonghwa softened his gaze. "I-nothing, you're right. I'm sorry for wasting your time." He walked around you and opened the door for you, "San must be waiting."

You only looked at him with slight disappointment, expecting him to fight or argue about it even for a little.

But then it hits you, why would you want Seonghwa to argue about it?

You walked towards the door, stopping in front of Seonghwa who was still holding the door open. "Seonghwa, do you like me?"

Your straightforwardness definitely caught him off guard, coughing up a bit and you saw how his eyes almost bulged out its socket. "Wh-No. Of course not, we're friends. We're just friends."

And like how you said you liked San, nobody in the room believed that as well. Seonghwa's grip on the doorknob even tightened, still sputtering out words that doesn't really makes sense.

"If we're just friends, then stop looking at me like you want it to be more." With that, you walked out his room and head down to where you last spotted San, by the gardens.

Why does it matter if Seonghwa liked you?

--

As you emerged, you spotted San and Byeol talking to each other by the fence. They didn't notice your presence until you were in between them.

"Nali is still preparing lunch, maybe you are still available to take a quick stroll?" You asked, putting a hand up your face to block the sun.

San, who was now facing you, nodded. "That sounds good to me, are you done with your painting?"

You shrugged, letting your hands fall when San blocked the sun for you, replacing your hands with his. "You can say it like that, shall we?"

As you and San were walking out, Byeol interject. "I'm afraid I have to come along, King's orders." Byeol looks at you, knowing where he was coming from.

"Don't worry, Commander. I won't take your princess away and I'm also perfectly capable protecting her when needed." San said, which made you and Byeol chuckle.

San looks at you as if offended. "I'm sorry, it's not like that. I just don't think you've ever held a sword in your entire life."

San quirked an eyebrow up, switching looks to you and then to Byeol. "I have to agree, it's not the princess' safety I'm worried about as she is perfectly capable. It's you I'm worried about, I don't think sweet talking a bear will help you."

You laughed at Byeol's words, San stepping back as he now does look very offended. "You underestimate me way too much, hand me your dagger." Without hesitation, Byeol handed San the dagger sheathed in his belt.

As the dagger went into San's hands, he played with it first, tossing and feeling it in his hands. Nodding to himself when it seems like he managed to figure out its weight.

Before you can make a joke about how that's not what a dagger is for, San threw the dagger and hit the Apple on tree by the fence, the fruit falling and even slightly startling a guard on the other side of the fence.

Seonghwa changed from his pajamas to his day-to-day clothes, just a pair of black slacks with a white button-up shirt with nude-colored suspenders.

He wore his glasses and not long after, he stepped out of his bedroom and greeted the staff he passed by.

Meanwhile, you were already awake. Now changed into a puffy violet dress, eating breakfast beside your father who was reading the newspapers.

You glanced up from your food and smiled at the sigh of Seonghwa. He shared the same smile and took the seat across from you, just like yesterday.

"Good morning, Seonghwa."

"Good morning, princess." He bowed his head slightly, then looked at your father who temporarily put his newspapers down, to greet Seonghwa a good morning.

"How was your sleep? Is it good?"

"Yes, I slept well. Thank you for the great accommodations." The king hummed at this, before returning to his newspaper.

The entire breakfast, you and Seonghwa stole glances from each other, sharing a secret that really wasn't.

When your father left, bidding goodbye to both of you, Seonghwa finally struck a conversation. You weren't naive, you sensed how he was prolonging his food.

And he wasn't completely naive as well, he assumed you drink your coffee slowly as well. "I finished the painting, I'll deliver it to your room later."

"It's only the 2nd day, Seonghwa. Are you really in a rush to be alone with me in my room?" You smirked confidently when his eyes widened, glancing around, and heaved a relieved sigh when he saw no one was in earshot.

You pick your mug up as you let the coffee's aroma surround you for a bit. "I have to compensate you, you weren't hired here to paint nature. I added extra work, and cost you materials." You put your mug back down after taking a sip, glancing at Seonghwa as he picked his food slowly.

"I think we both know what kind of compensation I accept." You looked at him with a raised brow, Seonghwa realizing late how it came out lewd. "I was obviously talking about how you should let me paint you."

You enjoyed moments like this with Seonghwa. You liked seeing him flustered, caught off guard. You amused yourself seeing his shining eyes widened and be cautious with the surroundings. You liked Seonghwa for his domestication, he’s the only non-royal out here.

“Are you sure you don’t take any other compensation?” You asked sultry, your eyes looking at him intensely.

He shook his head seconds later, not meeting your eyes while he took a sip of his drink. He put it down a little long after, wiping his mouth with a napkin. “I’m afraid not, y/n.”

You were about to reply again but then you saw a large commotion of maids behind him, carrying cases of suitcases and boxes. As you focused on it more, you realized they were your stuff.

Seonghwa looked over his shoulder to see what you were looking at and watched as your figure stomped its way towards where the maids were, your father ascending from the front door with the King of Dokbun, his son, your fiance, just walking beside him.

“What is going on?” You asked no one in particular, the maids stepping back at your voice while your father looked at you, a ‘professional’ look on his face as he conversed with the King.

“Y/n, you remember the Choi’s.” The king bowed at you, the same time San did. But as San rose, he took a step towards you and held your hands, about to place it on his lips before you pulled it back.

You let him stand there idly, back bent before he stood straight back up and smoothed his suit like nothing happened. “Why is my belongings here?”

“Well, y/n, I guess you can remember that I will be having a trip to Ketterdam this week. It would take a couple of weeks before I return, and Yonjun here said that he would also be traveling to Ketterdam the same time as I will.” You crossed your arms and nodded, still not finding the correlation between the two. “Yonjun stated that you can stay at his palace for the meantime just so you two can get acquainted with each other.” Your father motioned to you and San, who was now standing with hands crossed in front of him.

“I can’t go.” You said almost immediately, shaking your head as you said so. “I can’t leave.”

“And why not? I made sure you had no other duties to attend to.” Your father said, his tone challenging. He asked Nali to check if you had other business to attend. You didn’t.

“Because…” I don’t like to be alone with a man I barely know. You looked around, trying to find a reason so strong your father has no choice but to let you stay. You looked over your shoulder and saw Seonghwa standing by the threshold of the dining room and the welcoming area.

You looked back to your father with a feign of victory. “I’m about to be painted.” Your father suppressed his shock rather well, but the widening of his eyes said otherwise.

“You’re about to be painted?”

“Yes, I was just talking to Seonghwa about how we will start tomorrow.” You motioned towards the figure of the threshold, who was caught off guard with the sudden insertion to the topic. He bowed twice and by the time he went up, the attention is now away from him.

“Very well then, San will be staying here for the night before he will leave-”

“If you would allow, San could stay here with y/n.” Your father interrupted Yonjun. “We would like to have San over for the next few days.”

--

“I can’t believe it. Can you believe it? I thought I dodged an arrow with that one.” You crossed your legs as you rambled on, sitting down on your bed while Nali returned your clothes to the closet, the hangers clanging with each other.

"This is better, still. You're in the comfort of your own place and you know where the best hiding spots are." You chuckled at her words, laying back down to the bed as Nali sat down beside you.

"Where even is, San? I was about to ask him if he's hungry but he wasn't there."

"I asked Byeol a favor to show him around town, I don't think I can stand him just yet."

Before Nali could reply, a knock ensued. You sat up from your bed and stood up, smoothening your dress as Nali walked towards the door to open it.

You expected a specific painter with his favorite suspenders, but in his spot was a prince. San bowed at Nali before his drifted behind her, towards you. "Can I speak with the princess, in private?" He asked, his hands behind him while Nali held the door open.

Nali looked at you first with confirmation, when you have her a nod, she exited the door though you saw a faint smile on her face.

"I'll be preparing lunch, please join us if you can." Nali told San, letting him enter the door and when he's in the room, Nali gave you first a thumbs up before closing it.

You stood there with your arms crossed, not muttering a word while yoi watched San walk around the room.

"You're not talking, I thought you wanted to talk to me?"

"Why do you hate me?" He asked, stopping in front the end of your bed, the sun shining behind him which made him look a little menacing, especially with his black attire.

"I don't hate you." You said softly, uncrossing your arms as you sat down on your bed. "But I don't have a reason to like you. I barely know you."

San chuckled at your words, then shook his head. You eyed him confusingly, "You know me, you just forgot."

"No, I don't-"

"We went to the same preparatory school when we were younger. But you had to stop due to-" He tilt his head to the side, his hands falling to his side. "Due to some cicumstances."

You know what he was referring to, it was the death of your mother. Your mother died when you were only 9, having complications with childbirth. Your brother died a day later, deemed he was malnourished and couldn't do anything about it.

You nodded at his words, and looked down to try and remember the events when you were younger.

Your head snapped up, clicking your fingers together. "Ah, you were the boy who was good at horse back riding."

"And you were the girl who pricked someone with a needle during knitting classes." His eyes was gone as he smiled, glad to know you didn't completely forgot about him.

The laughter died down, finally motioning San to take a seat beside you. He walked over and sat down across from you, a good space between you two. "I'm sorry about your mother, I saw her before and she was great."

You only nodded at this, your hands busying themselves with the sheets of your bed. "I'm sorry for acting harshly. I don't hate you, the marriage was just all of a sudden."

"I understand, but y/n I want you to know that when we get married-" Your eyes met him, his figure leaning on your bed frame as he spoke. "-I, I will be in my best behaviors. If I overstep any boundaries, I would like you to call me out on it. I know this setup is not ideal for both of us, but it's the best we can do."

You let his words sink in to you first, feeling touched with how he thought about you and your future, together.

Now that he said it, you realized how you didn't thought about your marriage life will be. You always just hoped it well fell through, for one reason or the other.

"I appreciate that, San. Thank you." He nodded, then he looked around your room, playing with this hands.

You both remained silent for a while, not knowing what to say to each other. Eventually, it seems like something caught his eye.

You watched as he stared at the sword attached to your wall. A white handled sword with gold vines around it, on the blade is a latin prayer you didn't really know. Just that's it's latin, and it's a prayer.

"Is this yours?" San asked, his voice lacing with excitement.

You stood up and stood by his side, this being the closesy you've been with him and realized how you went past a little his shoulder, his smells like a forest, the woods. He smells like a flower you haven't met yet.

Snapping back to reality when he touched the handles admiringly. "Yes, it used to be my mothers. She was the daughter of a guardsman, then she became a hunter when her father retired. She gave it to me when I was 6." Which is why you didn't get to know what the writings meant, she died when you actually got to get a closer look with the sword.

"It's beautiful, do you use it?"

"Of course, a Rose can't be complete without its thorns." San looked at you impressed, putting his hands behind his back.

You took notice of his stance, now less tense and more relaxed. He was warming up to you, and you were as well. "Seeing how you did with a needle, I should be scared."

You chuckled at this, San with a smile on his face as he looked on at you. "Do you have any hobbies that can rival mine?" You asked, almost challenging.

You tilt your head to the side, both of you facing each other now as he thought about it. "I can't really say much, I like to be active as much as I can but nothing over the ordinary."

"We have a long time to see what your talents are, San." He nodded at his words, his eyes gazing at you intensely.

Thankfully, a knock on the door interrupted you both, having a reason to look away from him.

You turn away from him and opened the door, seeing Seonghwa there standing timidly. "Lunch is ready, I was wondering if you can join me?"

Before you could answer, you felt the door open widely from behind you. Glancing over your shoulder, you saw San opening the door widely to reveal himself.

Unlike earlier, he was back to his intimidating, cold look. "You're the painter?"

"Yes, I'm Seonghwa." Seonghwa said, bowing at San. "I don't think I've fully introduced myself."

"And there's no need." You cut off, turning around to San with a smile, straightening his collar and brushing his shoulders. "Lunch is ready, care to join us?"

Instead, San just hmmed, the side of his lips raising. Glancing at Seonghwa first, his eyes went back to you and took your hand. This time around, you let him bring it up his lips and place a kiss on it. "I'll see you down there then, princess."

San walked out your room, stopping briefly in front of Seonghwa and when he is out from your sight, you breathed a sigh of relief. "He is insufferable."

"You seem to enjoy his company though, I'm glad to see you both finally getting along." You stepped out from your room and closed the door behind you, standing in front of Seonghwa.

"Oh don't be jealous now, Mr. Painter. I promise to invite you in my room soon." You said, letting your fingers touch his suspenders.

And Seonghwa let it, enjoying the faintest touch of your body on his, even it technically it wasn't his body. He took a deep breath and took a step back, clearing his throat. "Let's eat lunch, we don't want them waiting."

"Oh yes, especially since you are about to start tomorrow." Both of you started to walk, your hands on your sides and Seonghwa's behind him.

"I'm still not going to paint you."

"What? I already said-"

"Okay then," He stopped walking, which made you do the same. He faced you and you did the same, staring up at him. "Tell me then, tell me to paint you. Not at your father, or to anyone else. Tell me to paint you."

Not wanting to back down from the challenge, you brought yourself up to it. You could only get to half of your sentence before you visibly winced to yourself, as if the action is bringing you physical pain.

"Seonghwa, just get it on with it. Just do it. Get it over with."

"Do what, y/n? Come on, you can say it."

You grew frustrated at this. "Oh I see, you just want to stay longer here, don't you? Don't worry, you are free to move here in Pluvia if you want."

He made his way to the wide, open window. Before that is a couch, the perfect place to do his work as it provided natural lighting, it was just across his bed where he could see the night sky as he would fall into slumber.

He looked out and saw the village of Pluvia, it was similar to Saxum though the houses are made differently. Back in Saxum, it was mostly made out of stones, in here it was like miniature castles.

The architecture of each house has a pointed roof and colorful exterior, this town is NOT cheap.

His sightseeing was interrupted when a fast, strong gust of wind sounded from below. Peering down from the windowsill, he saw you, the princess, still wearing your pearly, white gown from earlier, but- is that a sword?

He watched as you clashed swords with Byeol, you using two hands while Byeol was only using one, the other behind his back.

Contrary to your tensed face and powerful fighting stance, Byeol looks relaxed and even entertained. While you're struggling, it looks like Byeol was having a play fight with a younger sibling.

Byeol, in a swift motion, twisted your sword which made it clatter to the ground. He took a step closer and pointed the sword to your stomach.

Seonghwa was alarmed at this, was he about to witness an assassination? Oh god, the princess is about to be assassinated and he just got here so there's a possibility he will get framed and HE'LL be the one to die-

His panicked thoughts stopped when he saw you push Byeol's sword away in an irritated manner, Byeol only laughing at your reaction as he stepped back.

He took your sword from the back and gave it to you, which you then took gingerly in your hands while Byeol put his back on his side.

Seonghwa felt his heart stop then start up again just as quickly.

Turning away from the window, he walked to his bed emptied his carry-on, grabbing his sketchbook and pencil before deciding to get started on his work.

--

"You need to be faster than that, princess. You should rely on your speed more than anything. And I guarantee you that in no time, you will be able to take my sword off my hands."

"Byeol, you're the commander in chief of my father's soldiers. If someone like me could easily beat you, you wouldn't be in this position." You said while you had your eyes squinted, the sun shining directly on your eyes.

"If your father finds out that I'm still overlooking your swordsmanship practices, I also wouldn't have this position." He motioned to the side, his arms bent so you could slip your hands in between, holding your sword on it while the other was holding the ends of your gown.

You slumped on the chair, tired and sweaty, and thanked the maid who handed you a drink. Byeol taking a seat beside you. "Nali hasn't shut up about the painter, maybe you are about to have your portrait painted this time around."

"Don't worry, Byeol. Give Nali some time and she will come back to you, don't be too threatened with your manliness." Byeol only chuckled at your words, as if he was offended with it.

Among the palace staff, it was no secret that there's something between Byeol and Nali. Though, both of them have not given anything a title yet. Given Byeol's line of work, it didn't surprise you.

"San is coming to visit tomorrow." You shot Byeol a disbelief look, just hearing about this news. Not saying a word, wanting Byeol to explain further.

"Your father asked me to be his guard as they approached for tomorrow. They're going to pass by the town on the way to the other."

"I don't like him, he looks smug." You said, remembering the first time you met San a few months ago. He took your hand and kissed the back of it, and the entire time he was talking to you.

You then found out that it's a sign of courtesy and he was being nice but he was too confident for your liking.

As you kept rambling about how you didn't like San, Byeol looked over your shoulder and motioned for someone to come over.

You look over in the direction he was calling someone on and saw it was Seonghwa, also still wearing the same clothes but minus the suspenders. Which sucks for you because you thought that was adorable.

When Seonghwa meets your eyes, he bowed, which made you scoff. "I told you not to do that, we're basically the same age."

"Ah, sorry. It won't happen again." He then bowed his head, which he then apologized for, again.

Byeol looked at Seonghwa clearly amused with the new boy, then his eyes went to you to also be amused with your reaction.

"I have to leave, I still need to go back to my station." You bid him Byeol goodbye and Seonghwa did the same.

As Byeol left the garden, you motioned for Seomghwa to take Byeol's sit in front of you, which he obliged almost immediately.

"Seonghwa, how long have you been a painter?" You asked, not looking at him as you were busy arranging the desserts the maids served, they were cupcakes with rainbow sprinkles.

Before Seonghwa could answer, you handed him one. "Uhm, since as young as I can remember. My father was a painter, our house was filled with artwork. It influenced me a lot, I started my first portrait when I was 13." You nodded at his words, peeling off the sleeve of the cupcake as you took a bite of it. The cupcake on Seonghwa's hands was still untouched.

"Who was it?" You asked, glancing at Seonghwa briefly before 'hmming' at the taste of the cupcake.

"I'm sorry?"

"The portrait, who was it?"

"My mom, it was a portrait of her while she was picking flowers." Seonghwa smiled to himself at the memory. He was looking over the window of his room while he was aimlessly moving his hands, when he checked it not long after, he realized he managed to sketch out not just the flowers in detail, but his mom but and the rest of the garden.

You didn't ask anything after that, and Seonghwa felt shivers on his spine when you locked eyes with the sketchbook in his hands.

He slowly hid the sketchbook behind him when you looked away, Seonghwa diverting his attention to the cupcake. "Byeol told me you sketched the forest on the way here, can I see?"

"It's not done," Seonghwa said, placing the cupcake on the side, taking his sketchbook from behind him before flipping through the pages.

The latest one, the mentioned forest, appeared not long after. It was still a messy sketch, the lines, and shapes all over. It wasn't even shaded properly, it's nothing close made by an artist, a 7-year-old learning drawing probably.

Still, he handed it to you with uncertainty. You took it from him gently, like how you took your sword from Byeol earlier. Seonghwa sat back when it was on your hands, watching your face as you study it.

The sketchbook is just a mere notebook, it's a small, brown string-bound notebook with stars embossed on its body. It's a notebook that his father gave him when he completed his first drawing when he was 5. Through the years, Seonghwa would replace then refill it. He received multiple gifts from clients of them giving him a notebook as a replacement, but Seonghwa can't seem to find the heart to replace it.

"Wow," You exclaimed after a moment, your fingers running on the drawings while you look at them intently. "I haven't been out the kingdom much, especially towards Saxum as I don't have any business to attend there. But when my mother was available, we took trips there, and we would pass this forest." You said, not removing your eyes from the drawing.

Sure, it's not finished and it's not very wowing, but the little details Seonghwa put that he will highlight when it's done, is surprising. Your eyes take in the drawing, your fingers running on the one specific bell tower. "Most people only see the mountains, they don't pay attention to the tower bell." You murmured in amazement, referring to the countless artworks you saw about that specific area in exhibits. Most, if not all, neglects to input the tower bell. They said it obscures the beauty of nature, but the tower bell is part of that land now.

"The tower bell brings the entire landscape together. With how it is now, overrun with nature, I think it shows how our time on earth is just temporary."

"How it's borrowed, that nature will take it back?" You said, looking up at Seonghwa, who nodded at your words, agreeing with your analogy. You chuckled at this, it was the same reason why you wanted the tower bell to be included, it holds an important symbolism with time.

You closed the sketchbook and handed it back to Seonghwa. Who leaned forward and took it from your hands. "You're very talented, Seonghwa. I see why my father is fond of you."

"But not good enough to let me paint you?" He asked, feeling bold as he sat back down, putting the sketchbook behind him. The cupcake has now gone as he ate the remaining one in one bite.

You looked at him, surprised by his newfound confidence. "Seonghwa, if you think a tower bell is enough then you got me all wrong."

I just watched you have a sword fight with the commander in chief. I never got you correct.

"Why don't you want me to paint you, then? If you're worried about being awkward, then please don't. We can talk to each other while we're in session." He said again, which made you shook your head.

"Don't flatter yourself, Seonghwa. You're not the only painter I turn down." You said, motioning for one of your guards from the other side of the garden.

Seonghwa looked over his shoulder and saw him walking away, so he focused back on you. "Also, if the only way you can paint me is through me being still, I may have overestimated your skills." You gave him a knowing look, then stood up from your seat.

Seonghwa followed through, putting his sketchbook in his pocket. He looked worried, not wanting to have offended you. He was about to apologize when the guard from earlier came in riding a horse, and another one following beside him.

The guard gave you the reins of the horse, petting the white animal gently as it snuggled close to you. "Mr. Park, there's a place I would like to show you. You don't need to paint it, but it would be nice to see a simple drawing of it." You remove your eyes from the horse, looking back at Seonghwa. "I think it will be a great addition to your collection, would you like to see it?"

Seonghwa gulped but nodded. "Yes, I'm interested."

"Good, can you ride a horse, though?"

--

As soon as Seonghwa removed his gentle hold on you, he walked aimlessly at the open field. It was not far from the palace, but because of the trees, it was hard to say.

When you unmounted your horse, you tied her to the nearest tree. Walking closely to Seonghwa who took a spot at the center of the field of flowers, the grass almost masking him.

Though he was already beginning to sketch when Seonghwa noticed you were taking a seat beside him, he held your hand and helped you down. You grab hold of his hand and managed to sit down, the bottom of your gown creating a sort of blanket so you weren't sitting directly on the grass.

"What is the memory of this place?" Seonghwa asked, his head dipped down to his paper. His hands moving lightly on the paper.

"I wasn't allowed to go out the palace grounds when I was younger. It was dangerous to expose me out the town at an early age, but I wanted to always be out and I would throw a fit when I can't cross the garden borders." Seonghwa chuckled at this, not doubting the thought of little you throwing a tantrum.

"My mom eventually took horseback riding. Then, we found this place." Seonghwa hummed at your words, not talking much now as he was on his element, but he didn't want you to feel alone.

"It's a nice place. Thank you for sharing this place with me." Seonghwa said quietly, not looking at you but you can see the faint smile on his face. The little flowers, dandelions, surrounding him making him look ethereal than he already is.

"You're close with your mom, aren't you?"

You nodded, pulling your legs towards your chest, propping your head on your knees. "My mom wasn't a born royal, she came from a family of hunters and my dad first saw her when she was hunting with her dad." Seonghwa, though focused on his drawing, snapped at you.

You laughed at his expression. "You didn't know?"

"No? I'm not from here, remember?"

"Well now you know, my mom is a huntress. She was the only child, she fends for her family. My father had to work hard to get her to say yes to his marriage proposal. She may not have raised me in the wild, but she raised me to be strong, to be like her. On the other hand, my dad taught me etiquette and manners."

"That explains the swords then." You chuckled at this, then nodded. Seonghwa went back to his drawing.

You both shared stories, getting to know one another through childhood stories. You found out he was also an only child, his parents died not long ago, and that he lived alone.

"Is there anyone waiting for you back at Pluvia, Mr. Park?"

"No, well, I have an annoying neighbor named Wooyoung. But other than him, nobody."

Through all those stories, you still haven't said the exact reason why you don't want your portrait done. You always deflect it with another story, or just say something useless.

Not long after, in the middle of you rambling about how you learned how to shoot an arrow, Seonghwa handed you his sketchbook. Looking down, he watched with pure joy as you stared in awe at the drawing.

Even without colors, it was detailed enough. And at the bottom, you could even see the feet of you and Seonghwa, your dress being carried away by the wind.

"Do you like it? I still need to color it."

"It's amazing." You answered simply, you handed the notebook back to Seonghwa. "If you added color to it, I think it would be better. Which is amazing, because it's already book."

"I will hand it to you when I'm done coloring it, maybe tonight."

As the both of you stood up, Seonghwa helping you up then dusted your hands to your gown, both of you walked back to your horse, which was being accompanied by the guard who was watching you both since earlier.

"Y/n, about earlier, about not being able to paint you," You hummed at this, holding his arm as you walked to the tall grass. Seonghwa walking at a slow pace, your other hand holding your gown.

"What is it?"

"I can paint you, even if you're not sitting still in front of me. I can paint you. But I don't want to paint you when you don't want me to." You looked at him in confusion. Seonghwa continued. "Unless I'm not getting your permission, I'm not going to paint you. If I can't paint you, then the best I can do is paint the idea of you, the image from other people's eyes." You turn to look at him, still confused.

"Then why take this job in the first place?"

The Starry Night painting, if you are successful with taking it, will be your biggest hit, and the most expensive. If you're successful, you can just retire from this job.

After the tour was done, you made sure to make yourself as invisible as you can. Smiling to people you would bump in as to not let them suspect anything, but mostly hanging out by the bar to drink while continuously roaming your eyes around.

"Another one for the lady please." You turn to your side and saw someone in a brown and white suit, with a matching white mask.

He was tall and lean, from his suit you can visibly see his biceps. Even with the mask obscuring your view from him, it was evident he wasn't that bad-looking.

You looked at him impressively with his bold actions, the bartender sliding you a drink. The man, now taking the seat beside you, while he drank his drink nonchalantly.

You took the drink in your hand and took a sip, looking at the man again who now wore a smile on his face, though still not looking at you. "Am I that lonely looking you bought me a drink?"

He turned to you, putting his drink down. "No, I just wanted to make sure you wouldn't leave when I finally talk to you."

"Well, it's working." You finished the drink in one go. Pushing it towards him while he only looked at you with- curiosity? "No more for me, I still need to get home alone."

"Night's young, plans could change. You don't need to go home alone." You chuckled at his reply, watching as he also downed his drink.

He then lends his hand out. "Care for a dance? Technically you do, I bought you a drink." You sighed but ultimately gave him your hand, letting him pull you to the middle of the dance floor.

He placed one of his hands on your hips, the other on your hands. Yours was on his neck while the other holding his hands, your bodies pressed together close. "So, black mask, what's your name?"

"I like that nickname though." You replied, challenging him as he only nodded with his mouth open. "How about you, Whitey?"

"Jun, Wen Junhui." His name was familiar, or at least some parts of it. You heard it before, he watched you in amusement when he realized his name does ring a bell and smirked when you finally put the pieces together.

Wen, the name of the invitation for this event. He was the son of the host of this party.

"I'm glad to see you're enjoying the party, I personally picked out the drinks." He whispered, his head now placed beside yours.

"I have no reason not to believe that seeing the strongest drink in there was a pink drink."

The rest of the time was similar to that, back and forth banter between you two. But it was evident he was really trying to get something out of you.

"How did you get invited here? Are you a press? Does my dad know you?"

"I am a valet that snuck in."

Eventually, you bought decided to take a seat by the private tables. And from the looks of it, the old wine he requested was taking a toll on him, even if Jun was fighting it back, it was clear he was drunk.

And when his head went limp on the back of the seats, you took this as your chance to finally do your job.

When Jun woke up, it was because all the lights were on and everyone was talking loudly, and the guards were running heavily.

He looked to the side and realizes he was alone in the booth, cursing to himself at the thought of getting drunk in front of you.

He removed his mask and suit, placing them on the table before walking out of the booth, thinking the party is over but still a sea of people in place.

With confusion, he ran to the area where the guards were running to. Not long after, he finally reached where the commotion is.

It's the most important painting in the venue, the damn Van Gogh shrine. Jun's dad was yelling at the guards as some of them ran around or were talking to the radio.