Chapter Text
Wonwoo sat in front the mirror, patiently letting the lady apply makeup to his pale face.
He was staring at the white robe he was supposed to wear, hanging up on the door behind him. It had a golden pattern around the edges, making its appearance not as plain and boring.
He couldn’t dare look plain or boring, not on a day like today.
Wonwoo remembers the conversation just like it was yesterday. Although for him, it was only a few weeks ago when he found out.
He was to get married.
And to a man he has never met or doesn’t even know.
It had been a topic over dinner with his mother and father. They dropped the topic on him, telling him he was to marry a prince from a neighboring kingdom. It was to form an alliance between the Jeon’s and the Kim’s in case of war is what he was told by his father.
Wonwoo didn’t know much about these certain arrangements but when it came to this one, he knew better.
He knew money had to be involved in some way as his father was a struggling King.
So in exchange for money and help with certain supplies, and of course an alliance, he had offered Wonwoo to marry the Kim’s son.
Rumor was the Kim’s only son needed to wed soon as he was going on twenty-five years of age and was next in line for the throne. Their son was a dedicated Knight to their kingdom, a leader among them and always going to battle. He was too busy to find his own partner. So, he let his parents choose.
And who better than a freshly twenty-one-year-old prince Wonwoo.
Both King’s sat down and talked about the whole arrangement. They made an agreement and settled on everything. A treaty and a marriage.
Wonwoo didn’t dare object to it when he was told, knowing the consequences if he did.
He had heard the Kim’s son had already agreed to it when he was told.
But Wonwoo figured he was just like him, agreeing to whatever to make his parents happy.
Wonwoo was still on the fence about it though. He had never met this man before, only hearing things that were spread across the lands. He hadn’t even been asked for his hand in marriage in a proper way, just like he always dreamed of.
No, all Wonwoo got was an envelope that contained a letter and an engagement ring for him to wear. The letter was from the prince, writing about how he was excited to see him. How he trusted his parents in choosing the right person for him. And how he promised to be the best husband for him and to always protect and take good care of him.
The letter was nice and thoughtful, Wonwoo reading it every night before bed. And of course, he wore the ring, it setting pretty on his left ring finger. But he wished he could have heard those sweet words in person. Would have had the man put the ring on his finger himself.
But he also didn’t know if that’s how the man truly felt either. If it was for show.
The whole ordeal made Wonwoo nervous.
When he was told, he only had a few weeks to prepare for everything, including this big day.
His big day.
He had to move all his stuff to a new castle.
He had to prepare to meet so many new people. To get accustom to everything new here compared to his home.
He also had to mentally prepare himself to share a bed with a man he doesn’t know.
It made his head spin, so many negative thoughts spilling in.
What if Wonwoo wasn’t what the prince expected? What if Wonwoo wasn’t his type? What if he was to be disappointed as soon as he saw Wonwoo and didn’t see him as a potential husband?
That would break Wonwoo’s heart to be rejected.
And he knows it would make his father mad.
“All done, your highness.”
Wonwoo blinked, leaning forward to look closer in the mirror.
He looked pretty.
Hopefully the prince would agree.
He stood up, following her over to where his robe was hanging. Her and two others helped him get dressed properly.
After the ceremony and the reception, Wonwoo would be escorted by the prince to their room where he would help Wonwoo undress out of this huge thing. And then they were to make love.
Another thought that scared Wonwoo.
But he would have the rest of the night to dwell on that.
They helped him put his small headpiece on. “Ready, your highness?”
Wonwoo gave them a small smile, nodding. He followed the servants out of the room and down the hall.
Wonwoo could hear all of the people chatting. He knew the whole town and those from other kingdoms had to be here. Who wouldn’t want to see a royal wedding?
The thought of all those people in there made Wonwoo sick to his stomach.
Despite being born in royalty, he never liked crowds.
He sighed as they stopped in front of two large doors.
Wonwoo heard murmuring voices quickly soften, then came the loud noise of the piano playing.
Wonwoo took a deep breath.
The doors opened, Wonwoo looked straight ahead.
Straight at his soon to be husband he has never seen before.
He stepped forward, back straight and eyes looking ahead. Just like he had practiced before.
He couldn’t screw up, especially with all of these people here watching him.
His father would never let him hear the end of it.
Which is why he didn’t dare look or even glance at the people standing around him. He could feel their eyes on him those, even some hushed whispers.
As he got closer, he could see the prince’s face clearer. And he was handsome. So, handsome that Wonwoo felt like maybe he wasn’t a good enough choice for him.
The man smiled at him as he got closer, causing Wonwoo’s nerves to ease.
He stood in front of the man, letting him take his hand to help him up. He gave him a small smile as they turned towards the officiate.
The music slowly came to a stop and the officiate spoke. “You all may be seated.”
The ceremony began.
-----
The ceremony was long and enduring.
But now Wonwoo stood next to his now husband as they walked down the stairs together, everyone cheering for them as they did so.
His husband, whose name was Mingyu as he learned, leaned down and whispered, “Whenever we are done greeting everyone, I’ll lead us back to our room okay? I had talked to your mother and she told me you aren’t a fan of crowds.”
Wonwoo’s heart skipped a beat.
The prince’s voice was so smooth and deep, it made Wonwoo shiver. But all he could do was nod.
They slowly, but surely, made their way around the room to greet everyone at the reception. Some people would start conversations with them but Mingyu was always the one to speak for the both of them.
He was thoughtful.
His arm never unlinked from Wonwoo’s the whole time.
They walked up to where both their parents stood, greeting them.
“Ah, Wonwoo dear. You look very beautiful.” Mingyu’s mother said.
Wonwoo bowed slightly. “Thank you, your majesty.”
She smiled, bowing her head slightly. Mingyu’s father nodded. “I’d say you two look very dashing together, the perfect couple to replace us when we get older.” He smiled jokingly.
Mingyu rolled his eyes, smiling at his father’s joke. Wonwoo, on the other hand, was blushing. It was nice to know that others thought they looked well together.
“I hope you take good care of my precious boy, Mingyu.” Wonwoo’s mother spoke softly.
Mingyu smiled, nodding his head towards her. “Of course, you can count on me to do so.”
“If he gives you any trouble, just give me a call. I’ll give you a few tips on how to keep him in line.” Wonwoo’s father eyed him, making the young prince feel small. “Although I’m sure he will behave, right Wonwoo?”
Wonwoo nodded, looking down at his shoes. He gripped Mingyu’s arm tightly.
“Yes, father.”
Mingyu must have noticed Wonwoo’s mood change because he spoke. “I don’t think that will be necessary. I can tell Wonwoo will be a fine husband to me.”
Wonwoo glanced up to look a Mingyu, whose features were hardened. His jaw was clenching as he stared down Wonwoo’s father.
He looked over at his father, who was giving Mingyu challenging eyes.
That was the type of person his father was. One to not back down from a fight or argument.
Wonwoo has learned that the hard way over the years.
“I’m just saying that you never know. He has always been a troubled boy over the years. I am only offering my advice dear boy.”
Mingyu pulled Wonwoo closer to him. “Well, to put it nicely, it’s not needed.” He turned to his parents. “If you’ll excuse us, I can tell my dear husband is ready to call it a night. I’ll be escorting him back to our room.”
His parents nodded. “Of course, we can keep the crowd company for a while before we shut it down for the night.”
Mingyu nodded at his father, turning to tug Wonwoo away.
Wonwoo glanced back, looking at his mother, a sorry look on her face.
Mingyu led Wonwoo through the crowd, nodding his head towards anyone who greeted them as they made their way.
Wonwoo could tell he was upset. He felt mainly responsible for it.
He led him up a few stairs and down a long hallway.
It became quieter the farther they went, the noises coming from the reception long gone.
They made it in front of a door that was at the very end of the hall, Mingyu opening it, leading them inside. He closed the door behind them as Wonwoo looked around.
The room was huge.
Wonwoo walked over to look out the windows, they were huge. The view was amazing though, as you could see out across the lands. The moonlight shined through the room. Wonwoo knew he should probably drawl the currents closed so in the morning time the sun wouldn’t hurt their eyes.
He walked over to a door which led to a bathroom. Wonwoo looked inside, seeing the double vanity sinks. For him and Mingyu. There was a shower and a bath tub, both separate from each other.
When he walked back out, he opened another door. A walk-in closet. “That one can be just for you, my love. I can store my clothes in a spare, I don’t mind.”
Wonwoo nodded, blushing at the nickname.
He walked over to their bed. A king size of course. He felt the sheets and comforter. Soft silk material. He couldn’t wait to lay in it.
He looked towards Mingyu, who was watching him with longing eyes.
“It’s a very beautiful room.”
Mingyu smiled at the comment. “I’m glad to hear you say that. I had them redo this side of the castle just for us. I figured you’d want some privacy from everyone, including my parents.”
Wonwoo smiled. “You are very thoughtful.”
Mingyu walked over to him, taking his hand. “Of course, my love. Anything for you.” He kissed his hand gently.
Wonwoo bit his lip. “I-I want to apologize. For my father’s comments. I know that he upset you and I feel terribly sorry because it was my fault.”
Mingyu shook his head. “Don’t apologize and don’t feel sorry. It wasn’t your fault.” He ran his fingers through his hair. “I don’t like he spoke of you nor how he spoke towards you.”
Wonwoo sighed. “He’s always been like that with me. He wants me to be his perfect son. Doesn’t want me to give him a bad name.”
Mingyu eyed him. “Well, he will not be treating you like that when I’m around. Trust me.” He leaned forward, caressing Wonwoo’s face. “You are already perfect to me.”
Wonwoo felt his heart beating fast as he stared at the man in front of him.
“I want to give myself to you, as an official act of our marriage.” He paused. “If you’ll have me of course.”
Mingyu looked at him, a surprise look in his eyes, before he smiled. “Are you sure that’s what you want, my love?”
Wonwoo nodded. “Yes, I want to be close to you. And I trust you to take good care of me.”
Mingyu pulled him closer to him, catching Wonwoo by surprise.
“Then I shall accept.”
For the rest of the night, Mingyu made sweet love to Wonwoo. Both giving themselves to each other in an act to bond their love.
-----
Wonwoo woke up to peaks of sunlight shining through the curtains and onto his face.
He slowly blinked, opening his eyes and looking. He turned over, only to find the space next to him empty.
He frowned.
Mingyu was gone.
Wonwoo slowly got up, checking the time from the clock on the wall. It wasn’t time for breakfast yet so he knew the man wasn’t eating.
He made his way into the bathroom, starting a bath. He quietly and gently washed himself off before getting dressed accordingly.
He heard a quiet knock on the door.
Maybe it was Mingyu.
His heart raced as he swung the door open, only to be disappointed at the sight of a servant.
“Sir Wonwoo, I am here to escort you to breakfast with the King and Queen. Sir Mingyu had a meeting to attend too.”
So that’s why he was gone.
He could of at least woke Wonwoo and let him know.
But then again, this was an arranged marriage. Nothing more.
Wonwoo nodded, following the servant towards the dining hall.
He walked in, seeing the King and Queen already seated at the table. The King sat at the head while the Queen sat on his right side.
Wonwoo walked up, bowing to them. “Good morning, your highness and your majesty.”
“Oh Wonwoo dear, please have a seat!”
Wonwoo sat down, feeling nervous.
He wished Mingyu didn’t leave him alone. He didn’t even know what to say to them.
“I hope our Mingyu is treating you well.”
He couldn’t help but blush as last night’s activities came into his mind.
“He is. He is a very good husband.”
Mingyu’s mother nodded her head.
The doors to the kitchen opened, chefs walking out with food on their trays.
Wonwoo ate silently, listening to the King and Queen talk among themselves. They sometimes would ask him questions and he would answer appropriately.
It felt weird to him. Having a conversation during breakfast with family.
Once they finished, they turned towards him.
“Since it’s your first day here, feel free to look around. There’s nothing to hide here so don’t be afraid to look into any rooms. But make sure you take someone with you so you don’t get lost.”
Wonwoo nodded. “M-May I ask when Mingyu will be back?”
The King smiled. “He should be back by lunch. He’s always been a busy man. Doesn’t really eat with us anymore. I’m hoping you can change that.”
Wonwoo nodded, standing up and bowing to the couple before following the servant out of the dining hall.
“Would you like for me to show you around sir?”
“Yes please.”
Wonwoo followed the servant around, getting a tour of the castle. He already knows it’ll take some time before he gets use to where everything is.
He showed him a large library that they had, fascinating him with how many books were in there.
He even showed him where Mingyu’s office is located in the knight corridor but they didn’t go that way.
After some time, they stepped outside in a large garden that was placed in the middle of the palace. Wonwoo looked around, amazed at all beautiful different types of flowers that were growing all around.
“This is the palace garden. The Queen is a fan of all kinds of different flowers so the King added this just for her to enjoy.” He turned towards Wonwoo. “Would like to be escorted back to your room sir Wonwoo?”
Wonwoo bit his lip, shaking his head. “I would actually like to stay here if you don’t mind.”
The servant nodded. “Of course, sir. Would you like for me to get you anything?”
“A book and a blanket please.”
“Any particular book?”
“Surprise me.”
The servant nodded, leaving Wonwoo alone. Wonwoo walked around, finding a shaded area and waited.
It was beautiful here.
He wished his home had a garden like this but his it seemed like his father hated pretty things.
The servant came back, giving Wonwoo a book and a blanket. He left him alone, with a promise to come back to get him for lunch.
Although he wasn’t really alone, there was guards there too. Two placed at the entrance of the garden.
Wonwoo laid the blanket out on the grass, sitting down.
He wished Mingyu was here with him, it would be nice company.
He sighed, opening the book and beginning to read.
-----
“Sir?”
Wonwoo looked up, seeing the servant standing in front of him.
“I’m here to escort you to lunch, sir.”
Wonwoo felt excited, getting the chance to see Mingyu.
“Of course, yes.”
He stood up, closing his book and leaving it on the blanket. “Would it be okay if I leave this here for now?”
The servant nodded. “Yes, sir. I will make sure no one messes with it.”
Wonwoo nodded, following the servant towards the dining hall.
He felt his heart racing again as he opened the door, walking in. He looked around, frowning as he didn’t spot the prince.
The Queen must have noticed, giving him a small smile. “He said he was busy, I’m sorry dear.”
Wonwoo shook his head, bowing slightly to them before joining them for lunch.
Once they finished eating, Wonwoo rose.
“Would it be alright if I took Mingyu some lunch to his office?”
“Of course dear! I’ll have your servant escort you to the kitchen and show you the way.”
Wonwoo nodded, following the servant to the kitchen. He explained to the chef how he wanted to take Mingyu lunch and the chef happily complied.
He gave Wonwoo a small container.
Wonwoo followed the servant down the hall, and down some stairs. They continued for a while before making it to the knights’ corridor.
“Here you go sir.”
Wonwoo bowed slightly, before turning and knocking on the door softly.
“Come in.”
He opened the door, seeing Mingyu sitting behind a desk, looking at documents. He looked up as Wonwoo closed the door, surprise to see him standing there.
He smiled. “Hello my love, is everything okay?”
Wonwoo couldn’t help but blush. “E-Everything is fine.” He held the container out in front of him. “I wanted to bring you some lunch. I was afraid you were hungry since you haven’t come up to eat.”
The prince’s smile grew. “Come here.”
Wonwoo walked over to him around his desk. He bent down, placing it right in front of him on the desk.
Wonwoo leaned back up, Mingyu stopping him by grabbing his arm gently. He looked at the prince. Mingyu leaned forward, kissing Wonwoo on the lips.
He felt his heart speed up.
He pulled back, face still close to Wonwoo’s. “Thank you, my love. I appreciate you caring so much about me.”
Wonwoo nodded, face heating up. He stood up, playing with his hands nervously. “W-Will I at least get to see you at dinner?”
“Of course, I promise to be there.”
Wonwoo gave him a satisfied smile, walking towards the door. He grabbed the door knob, looking back at Mingyu. “If not, I’ll be back down here.”
Mingyu chuckled. “Okay my love.”
Wonwoo opened the door, leaving to go back up to the garden to rest until then.
-----
“My love.”
Wonwoo felt someone shaking him slightly. He opened his eyes, blinking before looking up to see Mingyu standing over him.
“M-Mingyu.”
He smiled, holding his hand out for Wonwoo to take. He took it, letting him help him up.
“You told me not to be late to dinner but here you are, my love.”
Wonwoo’s eyes widen. “A-Am I late? I’m sorry!”
Mingyu chuckled, shaking his head. “I’m just messing with you, we are not late. I headed to our room early and saw you weren’t there so I asked around. I wanted us to go to dinner together.”
Wonwoo smiled, letting Mingyu take his hand. They started walking towards the dining hall.
“I missed you this morning.”
Mingyu glanced down at him. “Oh?”
Wonwoo nodded, looking down. “Yes. It felt lonely waking up without you there.”
They stopped in front of the door, Mingyu turning to look at Wonwoo.
“I am sorry my love. I promise to never make you feel lonely again.”
Mingyu leaned down, pressing a kiss to Wonwoo’s forehead before they walked in.
-----
Wonwoo laid in bed, watching Mingyu step out from their shared bathroom.
He walked over to the bed, sitting on his side.
He raised the covers back, getting under them. He turned on his side, facing Wonwoo. He scooted closer to him.
“Is there anywhere you want to go tomorrow while I’m attending to my duties?”
“I would like to go to town, meet all the people and see everything.” He pouted slightly, leaning forward a bit. “I hate you won’t be able to join me though.”
Mingyu smiled, caressing Wonwoo’s face. “Don’t pout, my love. Your cuteness will be the death of me.”
Wonwoo blushed, shaking his head.
“I promise that I will find time for a break and I will take you everywhere and anywhere you want to go. Just to make you happy.”
Wonwoo smiled. “You are a very good husband Mingyu.” He paused. “Even if this was just an arranged marriage.”
Mingyu pulled Wonwoo close to him. “Arranged or not, I want to be the best husband I can. I want to know all about you, the good and the bad. Your likes and dislikes. Everything. For you, I want to be the best husband in the world.”
Wonwoo smiled, leaning forward and kissing the prince softly.
“You already are.”
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