Apricity

“Thanks, Seungkwan-ah. We’ll be down in a bit,” Wonwoo shoots him a smile and hands him the files he was glossing over, “send this to the Accountant. I think he’s made a mistake with the numbers of page three,”

Seungkwan bows and halts as Wonwoo walks into the residential wing, traversing down the long hallway leading to his husband’s room.

Only his footsteps echo amidst the palatial walls as he passes by portraits and artifacts lined up against the walls, a symbol of the wealth of the Korean Royal family.

When Wonwoo reaches his husband’s room however, he takes a deep breath and stomps his feet, not too loudly but enough to announce his coming. He then proceeds to knock on the door, after three of which he hears a timid reply, “come in,”

Wonwoo pushes open the door and finds his husband, Jaekyung, by his study, reading a book. Wonwoo smiles, ignoring the way Jaekyung’s mobile is all the way on his bed, like it had been tossed there in a hurry.

“Hey, love,” Jaekyung stands up, shooting Wonwoo a charming smile, “is the car in yet?”

“No,” Wonwoo smiles, “it’ll be there in 10 minutes. We should head out soon. Long day ahead,”

Jaekyung nods, “I’ll be down in a minute. You should freshen up as well,”

Wonwoo swallows and forces a smile, “I’ll see you downstairs,”

And with that, he walks out of the room, closing the door behind him. Wonwoo doesn’t have to lurk around the shut door to know that Jaekyung’s stood up and walked towards the bed to retrieve his phone.

Wonwoo walks straight ahead to his room, two doors down, and shuts the door behind him, taking deep breaths once inside.

Wonwoo takes a few moments to gather himself and walks towards his washroom, turning on the faucet and splashing water on his face. He washes his face with some soap, making sure to get all the eyeliner and blush out.

He dries his face and grabs his phone, turning on the front camera to check his eyeliner once he applies it. He dabs some compact powder onto his face and sighs, shutting his phone.

He takes a moment to compose himself and heads out.

The walk down to the entrance of their house is long and lonely but Wonwoo prefers it this way. It’s less…suffocating.

He puts on a smile as the royal servants appear once he steps out the residential wing. They lower their heads as Wonwoo walks past them, catching a glimpse of himself in a mirror by the entrance.

The car door is opened for him and he steps into the car to see his husband already sitting there, face buried in the file from before.

“Hey,” Jaekyung smiles, “I heard you caught a mistake. Good work,” he compliments and a smile graces Wonwoo’s face.

“You didn’t freshen up?” Jaekyung asks and the words manage to wash the smile off Wonwoo’s face. He lowers his head and smiles, “I didn’t feel like it,”

“Okay,” Jaekyung laughs and the car begins to move.

Wonwoo can’t breathe again.

❀❀❀❀

“And now, the vows,” the Priest says, addressing the crowd and the grooms.

Wonwoo bites his lips and looks up at Jaekyung with a soft smile. Jaekyung shoots him a wink and Wonwoo chuckles.

Wonwoo clears his throat, trying to ignore the fact that this ceremony is being watched by millions across the country.

It’s the Prince’s wedding after all.

“I take you as my spouse, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until death do us part. You are my love, my life, and my everything,” he finishes off shyly, excited for what’s to come.

Though conventional, Wonwoo eagerly memorized his vows last night. He was up all night doing so.

He hears giggles and murmurs erupt in the audience and his grip on Jaekyung’s hands tightens nervously. Jaekyung softly squeezes his hands, reassuring Wonwoo.

“Now, you,” the Priest says and Jaekyung grins, “ I promise to love and cherish you, in good times and bad, to be your partner and best friend. I vow to support you in your dreams and aspirations and to create a home filled with—“ Jaekyung pauses, like he’d forgotten. Wonwoo tries to smile through it but he knows his eyes betray his lips, brimming with disappointment.

“I was so nervous I forgot the rest,” Jaekyung addresses the audience, making them laugh. He turns to Wonwoo and licks his lips, “Right. And to create a home filled with love and happiness. Today and always, I choose you as my partner for life,” he finishes by kissing Wonwoo’s hands, evoking a smile from the latter.

“You may now kiss,” the Priest declares and the two grooms lean in for a kiss as the audience applauds.

Wonwoo's heart races and his skin erupts with goosebumps. When they pull away, Jaekyung smiles at him, “My husband, my Omega,” he whispers.

Wonwoo smiles.

His first kiss…

“My husband, my Alpha,” he whispers back and Jaekyung grins, pulling Wonwoo in for a tight hug.

“I now pronounce you bonded for life,” the Priest says and loud applause erupts in the palatial chapel.

That day, the nation rejoices like never before at the homecoming of a new Prince.

Prince Jeon Wonwoo.

❀❀❀❀

“Sir, the Chairman wants to see you,” Secretary Lee says, snapping Wonwoo out of his thoughts.

Wonwoo looks up from the files and at Secretary Lee, who’s smiling at him.

“Right,” Wonwoo clears his throat and stands up, “let’s go,”

Wonwoo follows Secretary Lee out of his office, a small CFO plate stuck to the glass door.

The walk to Jaekyung’s room is silent for most part, consisting of people greeting Wonwoo every now and then as he passes by.

Some call him Prince, others Sir. He manages to reply to them all with a nod of the head and a smile.

He brings his attention to Secretary Lee, and his eyes land on her neck. Wonwoo gasps inwardly at the sight, a small bite mark peeking out of her shirt collar.

Wonwoo lowers his gaze to her hand and unsurprisingly, there’s a ring.

“Secretary Lee, did you get married?” he asks, astonished that he was clueless about it. Jaekyung never mentioned his Secretary got married.

“Yes, Sir. Day before yesterday,” she admits shyly and Wonwoo smiles, “congratulations. I wish I was there for the wedding,”

Secretary Lee purses her lips, “I invited the Chairman, Sir. I think he forgot..”

Wonwoo sighs. Jaekyung can be forgetful.

“I’m sorry,” he apologizes and Secretary Lee shakes her head, “it’s okay. He is very busy, always on the phone and what not. It must be hard to keep track of things,”

Wonwoo tenses but wills his anxiety away, “Forgive us. But my best wishes are with you two,”

Secretary Lee’s face blooms with joy at that and she smiles, “thank you, Prince Wonwoo,” she says and opens the door labeled CEO and Chairman.

When Wonwoo walks in, he finds Jaekyung seated, going through invitations.

“Oh, have we received any RSVPs yet?” Wonwoo asks, excited as he picks up an invitation.

Jaekyung’s older brother, Taehyung, is getting married next week. He’s the oldest of the three brothers, and the only Omega.

“Many,” Jaekyung smiles, “but this one in particular Ghar my eye,” he says, plucking a card off the table and handing it to Wonwoo.

Confused, Wonwoo opens the card and—

He gasps, “Mingyu RSVP’d?” he asks, thoroughly shocked. It feels weird to even say Mingyu’s name out loud because…

It has been so long, almost 6 years since he last saw him…

Wonwoo tries to stop the way his fingers quiver. He places the card down and looks up at Jaekyung, who seems less than pleased.

“He did. He arrives tomorrow,” Jaekyung informs and Wonwoo swallows.

This is..all so sudden…

“I’ll call the house. Have a guest room ready for him,” Wonwoo grabs his phone, about to exit Jaekyung’s office.

“There’s no need for that. I’ll arrange for him to stay at a Hotel nearby,” Jaekyung says. Wonwoo swallows, “Hyung, he’s your brother—“

“He was. He stopped being my brother when he ran away,” Jaekyung says. Wonwoo purses his lips and takes a deep breath, “Hyung, people will talk. I think he should stay at the house,”

Jaekyung looks up at Wonwoo with disdain in his eyes, “why do you never do what I ask you to?”

Wonwoo tenses under those scornful eyes. But within the blink of an eye, those eyes soften, “I’m sorry. You’re right. Just arrange a guest room for him,”

Wonwoo licks his lips and smiles, “Yeah. Also, uh, we have to visit the Children’s hospital today. If we start now, we can reach before lunch,”

Jaekyung clicks his tongue, looking up apologetically, “ah, shoot. I totally forgot. Can you go ahead, love? I have some important meeting to attend,”

Alone? There are going to be so many people at the hospital…

Wonwoo swallows and masks his disappointment with a smile, “sure thing. I’ll see you at home,”

Jaekyung smiles, “see you,”

With that, Wonwoo turns around and walks out of the office, passing Secretary Lee on the way, who’s leading a trio of girls into Jaekyung’s cabin. Wonwoo doesn’t turn around but is within earshot of the cabin.

“Sir, they’ve been chosen as the final models for our marketing campaign. Chief Yeon sent them over,” Secretary Lee says and Jaekyung clears his throat, “ladies, congratulations. You all look wonderful today. Please, have a seat,”

And Wonwoo speed walks out of there.

❀❀❀❀

When the newlyweds retire to their room, Wonwoo settles down awkwardly on the humongous bed as Jaekyung uses the facilities.

Wonwoo takes the moment to look around the room, at the portraits on the wall, at trophies on the shelves, at the large mirror across the bed and fancy furniture throughout.

Wonwoo stands up and walks over to the mirror, a marvel in itself, mounted on a wall. Wonwoo takes a look at himself. There are quite a few smudges on his white suit, and his face looks a little worn out from the wedding activities. Should he get changed? Should he take a bath?

Aren’t they going to…

Wonwoo flushes. He shakes his head and startles when the washroom door clicks open. Jaekyung walks out and Wonwoo whirls around to face him.

“Hey, there’s no need to be nervous,” he laughs at Wonwoo’s spooked face, “I’m not going to force you into anything,”

Wonwoo relaxes at that.

He’s grateful.

“Thank you,” he sighs and Jaekyung chuckles, kissing Wonwoo’s cheek. Wonwoo blushes.

He’s never been in a relationship before and now he’s married to the Second Prince of Korea.

Jaekyung pulls away and takes Wonwoo’s hands, “I want you to know that I’m not in any rush to mate with you, okay? We can take our time and do it when comfortable,”

God.

Wonwoo truly believes he’s hit the jackpot with Jaekyung.

“Thank you,” he says and hugs his husband, and Jaekyung kisses his cheek once again, “no worries,”

Wonwoo looks forward to his life with Jaekyung.

❀❀❀❀

“Prince Wonwoo! Prince Wonwoo! Look here!” the paps call as Wonwoo steps out of the car. Despite the barrage of bodyguards surrounding him, Wonwoo’s crowded. He keeps his head lowered and plasters a smile on his face as cameras flash and snap photos.

“Prince Wonwoo! You look so handsome today!”

“Prince! What do you have to say about the news article which said Kim Enterprises and it’s subsidiaries are responsible for 35% of carbon emissions in Korea”

“Prince Wonwoo! What are your thoughts on the rising incidence of leukemia in children?”

“Prince Wonwoo, look here!”

“People’s Prince! Prince Wonwoo!”

“Prince Wonwoo smile at the camera please—“

“Prince Wonwoo!”

And once the hospital doors are shut, the noise drains out and Wonwoo relaxes, finally safe. He takes a deep breath and turns around, waving at the paparazzi and journalists outside as they continue to click photos.

“Thank you guys,” Wonwoo thanks his bodyguards.

With one last wave at the paparazzi, he walks away, followed by his men.

❀❀❀❀

“I should’ve known it was you when I heard all the frantic screams outside,” Jeonghan says as Wonwoo enters his office with a huge grin on his face.

“Maybe next time pop out and check. It could be a fire, who knows,” Wonwoo says, taking his seat as his bodyguards walk out the door and shut it.

Jeonghan chuckles, “it’s good to see you, Wonwoo-yah. What brings you here? Except of course inaugurating the blood drive outside and filling in for your husband,”

Wonwoo purses his lips. Jeonghan is sharp as ever.

“I came to see you,” Wonwoo sighs, leaning back on the chair, “and to ask you if you’ve considered my request,”

The playfulness of Jeonghab’s face disappears and he takes a deep breath, “I’ve told you what you’re asking is crazy,”

Wonwoo huffs, stretching, “I know. But I’ll keep coming until you agree, so…”

Jeonghan rolls his eyes, “great,” and Wonwoo chuckles.

“So, what’s new in your life?” Jeonghan diverts the topic and Wonwoo lets it be for this time. Wonwoo licks his lips, contemplating whether to tell Jeonghan or not.

“Mingyu RSVPd to Taehyung Hyung’s wedding,” he blurts out and Jeonghan gasps, “what….?”

Wonwoo sighs and rubs his face.

“Yeah,”

Jeonghan gulps nervously.

“Wow. Okay. That’s…”

“Odd. I know. I can’t believe…after so long…” Wonwoo trails off towards the end, pursing his lips shut.

Jeonghan hums, “wanna drink?”

Wonwoo laughs, “Is that your solution for everything?” and Jeonghan shrugs, “it’s pretty effective,”

Wonwoo snickers.

“Thanks Hyung, but I can’t. I’m busy,” Wonwoo sighs and Jeonghan rolls his eyes, “right. The people’s prince is never off duty, huh?”

Wonwoo can only smile, “it seems so,”

❀❀❀❀

“Are you well rested now, Wonwoo?” The Queen asks all of a sudden, and Wonwoo almost drops his chopsticks. He swallows his food and nods, “Yes, Eomeonim,”

The Queen smiles, nodding, “very well. Tomorrow, Taehyung will show you around the palace and make you aware of your responsibilities and etiquette,”

Wonwoo gulps but smiles, “Thank you, Eomeonim. And Tae—“ he turns to Taehyung who quickly cuts him off, “call me Hyung! We’re family now!” he flashes Wonwoo a body smile, making Wonwoo smile as well. He relaxes and glances at Jaekyung, who winks at him.

“It’s best you get this out of the way as soon as possible. Later, you’ll be busy,” the Queen adds and Wonwoo frowns, “if I may, busy with what, Eomeonim?”

The table falls silent and everyone exchange a glance before laughing.

Wonwoo frowns, confused.

The Queen clears her throat, “well, I assume it would be difficult to get adjusted to the royal way of life once you have children. That’s why, it’s best to get that out of the way,”

It finally dawns on Wonwoo what’s being insinuated.

He glances at Jaekyung and blushes.

Jaekyung chuckles.

❀❀❀❀

“Have you eaten yet?” Jaekyung asks when Wonwoo enters his room later that night.

Wonwoo smiles, “I have. What about you?” Wonwoo sits down on the bed beside Jaekyung, who stretches and nods, “I did. I grabbed a bite with some company executives earlier,”

Wonwoo smiles. He can tell.

Jaekyung reeks of alcohol.

“I see. Important meeting?” Wonwoo asks, fidgeting with his fingers as Jaekyung leans onto him, tipsy.

“Sort of,”

Wonwoo hums.

“I met Mom earlier,” Jaekyung says and Wonwoo nods, “I see. I saw her for dinner. She told me she hasn’t been feeling all too well,”

Jaekyung hums, snuggling closer to Wonwoo, “She worries she is ill. The Queen cannot be ill,”

Wonwoo takes a deep breath, “I understand,”

Jaekyung looks up at Wonwoo with hooded eyes, “she worries for me. For us. For our future,” he slides his hand onto Wonwoo’s lap, “she keeps pestering me about having children,” he chuckles and Wonwoo swallows.

He looks down at his lap, “right,”

Wonwoo feels his head being turned by his chin by Jaekyung’s fingers, and then he’s met with hot lips pressing into his.

Wonwoo shuts his eyes and lets himself be kissed and pushed back onto the bed. Jaekyung drunkenly crawls over him, “let’s give her what she wants, darling,” he smiles, loosening his tie and Wonwoo bites his lip.

He raises his arms and pulls Jaekyung closer to himself, shutting his eyes.

❀❀❀❀

“How long has it been since your marriage, Wonwoo?” The Queen asks as Wonwoo pours her some tea. He hums, “1 year, Eomeonim,”

She takes the tea cup and hums, “you’ve improved since then. You’ve excelled in your duties, both in the house and as CFO,”

Wonwoo smiles, “thank you, Eomeonim,”

“However,” The queen takes a sip and Wonwoo tenses, “there is one duty you are yet to carry out,”

She doesn’t have to elaborate for Wonwoo to understand.

He lowers his gaze, “Eomeonim, that—“

“Taehyung is an Omega and his lineage will not be counted,” she begins, “and Mingyu…that child..” she shakes her head and turns to Wonwoo, “someone has to carry forward the royal bloodline, Wonwoo,”

Those words put immense pressure on Wonwoo’s shoulders and he sighs.

“You should conceive as soon as possible. I’m also disappointed that you and Jaekyung haven’t mated yet. Do you not like my son, Wonwoo?”

“Eomeonim—“

“Enough. Talking to you vexes me. Take me to my chamber,” she says and Wonwoo swallows. Nonetheless, he helps her stand up and escorts her to her room, all the while thinking how he can convey to her that it’s her son that refuses to mate with Wonwoo.

❀❀❀❀

Wonwoo sneaks out of Jaekyung’s room the next morning, heading straight for his room.

On his way there, he finds himself rubbing the back of his neck, sighing to himself.

It feels empty.

Wonwoo’s given up on the idea of mating with Jaekyung. He gave up years ago and…

Wonwoo swallows. He walks into his room to freshen up but he startles when he sees a tall figure standing by his desk, its back facing Wonwoo.

Before Wonwoo can raise the alarm, the figure turns around and Wonwoo’s eyes widen.

“Good morning, Wonwoo,” the familiar voice says, sending shivers down Wonwoo’s spine.

“M-Mingyu…” is all he can say to the man standing in his room, shell-shocked.

“It’s been a while,” he smiles as memories of the past flood into Wonwoo’s brain.

❀❀❀❀

Wonwoo hates the fact that they have to change roommates almost every year.

He finds the exercise completely futile.

Not simply because relationships are rarely given the time to mature but also because he has to drag his luggage all the way to the other end of this hostel.

Wonwoo reaches his room after a great deal of work and catches his breath. Before opening the door however, he prays he doesn’t get a roommate this year.

Wonwoo wants the entire room for himself.

But when he pushes open the door, all his hopes are crushed.

He sees a man seated on a bed, unpacking his things and Wonwoo groans, making his presence known to the man.

The man turns around and smiles, “hey, I’m your new roommate,”

Wonwoo rolls his eyes, “I know, I know. Let’s get over with the drill shall we? I’m Wonwoo and I’m pursuing business and finance. And you are?” He asks as he settles down on the bed.

The man frowns and smiles, “you don’t know who I am?”

Wonwoo exhales, “No, your majesty, I don’t,”

The entitlement of some people!

The man chuckles, “well, uh, nice to meet you, Wonwoo-ssi. I’m Kim Mingyu,”

And Wonwoo gasps. That name…

He looks up at the man and gasps.

Mingyu smirks and continues, “the Third Prince of Korea,”

Wonwoo can only hope Mingyu forgives him for the ‘your majesty’ quip.

Notes:

For Minwon day!

Chapter 2: The Third Prince and his Hyeongnim

Notes:

It's super late here so please ignore any typos --

Chapter Text

Wow

Wonwoo just earned himself a spot on the Royal hit list.

Wonwoo licks his lips and breathes out, standing up and bowing, “Your Majesty,” and Mingyu bursts out laughing.

“Chill, dude. You don’t have to do that,” Mingyu says and Wonwoo hesitantly straightens, clearing his throat, “I don’t?”

This is the youngest prince of Korea. How does one behave around the youngest prince of Korea? Wonwoo’s grown up always in awe of the Royals. While he hasn’t been an avid fan of the family, he sure has dreamed of getting to meet one and occasionally fantasized about being one. Like, who hasnt?

“You don’t. And it’s Your Royal Highness,” Mingyu winks and Wonwoo purses his lips, “right, uh, your Royal Highness—“

“— Mingyu,” Mingyu corrects, shooting Wonwoo a soft smile. Wonwoo swallows and nods, feeling at ease already. He hasn’t heard much about the current princes. He only knows that they’re all incredibly good looking and he can confirm that’s true after seeing one in the flesh. There was a time Wonwoo was convinced it was all just a myth.

“Right. Uh, Mingyu,” God it feels so odd saying that, “sorry I behaved that way. I’ve had a long day and had to drag my luggage up two floors and…” Wonwoo groans at the memory and Mingyu snickers sogtly.

“Hey, it’s no problem. Don’t think of me as a Royal. I’m just another student. Rather, I’m your roommate,” Mingyu says, and Wonwoo sighs. Ah, he’s the textbook polite prince, isnt he?

“Sorry,” Wonwoo says, “it’s hard to just…erase that part of you,” he huffs and Mingyu smiles, standing up.

“I understand. I did put in 24 years of my life trying to live up to the title,” Mingyu says. So he’s a year younger than Wonwoo? How is he in the final year already? Is he smart? Probably.

“Maybe if we’re friends it’ll be easier, eh?” Mingyu extends his hand. Wonwoo pauses dumbly and glances at Mingyu’s hand. He furrows his brows, “you want to be my friend? Why?”

Mingyu laughs, “you seem fun,”

Oh.

That’s reasonable enough.

“Come on, don’t be a stranger and shake my hand,” he says. Wonwoo hesitates momentarily but decides – fuck it!

He shakes Mingyu’s hand and bright smiles grace their faces.

Wonwoo can tell his final year is going to be eventful.

❀❀❀❀

It’s the same man from back then, but he’s grown into his features now. He’s bigger, his hair is different and his voice is slightly deeper. An air of maturity surrounds the once playful young man. He’s dressed sophisticatedly, a chubby Rolex on his wrist and a ring on his index. Mingyu looks and feels like an Alpha. Something he didn't back then.

Wonwoo decides to snap out of his thoughts and speak up, “Mingyu,” the name feels foreign on his tongue, “why…why are you in my room?” Wonwoo asks, combing through his disheveled hair and setting his messy clothes.

Mingyu notices the gesture and smirks, “Don’t be a stranger, Won. It’s nothing I haven’t seen before,” he says and warmth graces Wonwoo’s cheeks. But Wonwoo hates the cocky tone of MIngyu’s voice.

“You didn’t answer my question,” Wonwoo says, pushing his glasses up his nose. and Mingyu takes a deep breath. He turns around to scan the room, “just here to see what you guys did with my old room. I was told the People’s Prince resides in it now,”

Wonwoo swallows. Somehow, it doesnt sound like a compliment when Mingyu says it.

“We’ve come a long way, haven’t we? From being cramped in that small room to this,” Mingyu raises his arms to address the magnificence of this bedroom. It indeed has been quite the journey from back then. From cooking ramyeon in their room together to…acting like strangers.

Wonwoo doesn’t know how to act in front of Mingyu. He feels exposed under Mingyu’s intense gaze. Its like those orbs are trying to figure Wonwoo out, roaming over his body. Wonwoo feels…vulnerable. He crosses his arms defensively and Mingyu smiles smugly.

“I have one question though,” Mingyu walks closer to Wonwoo, “I don’t see a single mirror around,” his pupils take a quick look around the room and then land on Wonwoo, who seems agitated by the question. MIngyu cocks a lazy brow at Wonwoo’s hesitance to speak up.

Wonwoo feels ambushed but he will not take this from Mingyu. He clenches his fists and steps back, “Third Prince Kim Mingyu-ssi,” he begins, adding an authoritative tinge to his voice, “remember who you are speaking to,” he warns.

Mingyu scoffs. In the Order of Precedence, by virtue of his marriage to Jaekyung, Wonwoo precedes Mingyu, a fact Mingyu too is aware of.

“Ah. I’m aware I’m talking to my Brother-in-law, Prince Wonwoo, the People’s Prince, CFO of Kim enterprises,” Mingyu says but his smile drops soon, “but I was hoping I could talk tomy old friend first. You know, my roommate from University?”

Just what is MIngyu’s deal? Why is he acting this way? Why is he trying to press buttons? Why is he being so difficult?!

Wonwoo stands his ground but can’t bring himself to match Mingyu’s gaze, “We stopped being friends 6 years ago, Mingyu,”

Mingyu’s eyes morph into that of anger, “yeah, when you married my brother,” he sneers. Wonwoo swallows. He doesn't like this color on Mingyu.

Wonwoo wasnt prepared to face Mingyu again after all these years. But Wonwoo is not going to intimidated by him, “I think it was a little before the wedding, Mingyu-yah. You know that very well,”

Mingyu huffs, walking towards Wonwoo and then past him, making Wonwoo tense and then relax. Is this how its going to be foe the next few days? If Mingyu stays, will it be like this forever? Is Wonwoo gonna have to keep his guard up around Mingyu as well now?

“Won,” Mingyu calls, his voice suddenly devoid of the cockiness from before. Wonwoo turns his head to look at Mingyu standing by the door, his face softened, stripped off the haughty facade from before, “have you been well?” his voice oozes tenderness.

Wonwoo doesnt answer and simply lowers his gaze. Noting that, Mingyu just walks away, his footsteps retreating down the hallway.

MIngyu already knows the answer to that question.

❀❀❀❀

“Hey, wake up,” a voice whispers,

Good god, who the fuck is it?

“Wonwoo-ssi, it’s time to get up,” it says but Wonwoo just snuggles more into his blanket.

“Dude, wake up!” It’s louder now, more annoying, more impatient, “uh, fuck off…” wonwoo groans. No one can come between Wonwoo and his sleep. Not his mother, not his brother, not God, no one–

But the moment those words leave his words, his brain processes the voice and comes to the horrifying conclusion that he’d just cussed at Kim Mingyu, the Third Prince of Korea.

Wonwoo sits up with a gasp, blinking away his sleep and clasping his hands together, “Your Royal Majesty Highness, I’m sorry—“

He feels a pillow being smacked into his face and falls back onto the bed, the sleep whacked out of him. He whip his head towards Mingyu, who’s watching him with a stupid grin, “yah, I told you not to call me that,”

Wonwoo takes a moment to calm down and stops himself from landing a punch on the Prince’s perfect face. He grits his teeth, “What do you want?” Wonwoo grumbles, “it’s ass o’ clock in the morning,”

“It’s 8 am, and that’s not ass o’ clock. Now get up. We have a class at 9:30,” Mingyu pulls the blanket off Wonwoo, making the latter whine, “it’s cold!” He jitters and Mingyu laughs.

“Get up, Won,” he says and Wonwoo hums, lids heavy already now that’s under his blanket again, “5 more minutes, Min,”

Mingyu snickers, “Min? What happened to Your Royal Majesty Highness?” he teases.

Wonwoo snuggles into his blanket, “I don’t know who that is,” he sleepily utters.

He hears Mingyu’s laughter before drifting back to sleep again.

❀❀❀❀

Wonwoo quickly swallows the pill when he hears footsteps approach his bedroom. After three soft knocks, the door opens and Seungkwan steps in, “Good Morning, Your Highness,” he straightens with a smile, “you look gorgeous today as well,”

Wonwoo places his water bottle down on the desk and smiles sheepishly at the man, walking over to him, “Good Morning. Has everyone arrived?” He asks as they step out of the room, Seungkwan following Wonwoo.

Seungkwan answers, “Yes. They’ve begun breakfast. They await your presence,” he says and Wonwoo flicks his wrists, trying to shake off the nervousness.

“Jungkook-ssi is joining us today, correct?” Wonwoo asks.

Jeon Jungkook is the first Prince’s fiance. Despite them sharing a common surname, Wonwoo and Jungkook are not related. They first met each other upon Taehyung’s insistence. It was sweet that Taehyung wanted Wonwoo to be the first to know of his love affair with Jungkook.

“Yes. The Third Prince as well,” Seungkwan quickly adds and Wonwoo inhales deeply, trying not to tense at the mention of that title.

“His Secretary tells me you two met already,” Seungkwan tests the waters hesitantly, wondering if the topic is open to discussion. Wonwoo hums. He cant keep much from Seungkwan either way. As his courtier, Seungkwan is by his side all day and has thus become one of Wonwoo’s closest confidants in life.

“Ran into each other in the hallway,” Wonwoo lies. There is only so much Wonwoo can share with others. Some things are better left untold.

Seungkwan hums. The two fall silent once they exit the residential wing, guards and servants littered everywhere.

When they reach the dining hall, Seungkwan stops the guards outside from pushing open the doors right away, allowing Wonwoo to take a deeo breath. Once he feels prepared, Seungkwan gestures to the guards to proceed. When the doors open, Wonwoo puts on a smile on his face and steps in, letting his eyes rake over the royal family already seated at the lengthy dining table.

All eyes lift and land on Wonwoo, who tries not to let them weigh on his shoulders.

“Good morning,” he greets, “forgive me, I had a phone call to attend to,” he says as he settles down beside Jaekyung, who barely acknowledges his presence, only humming in response. Wonwoo ignores that and turns to look at all the people gathered here today. Its the usual. Mingyu and Jungkook are the only additions.

The Queen nods, “Prince Wonwoo, I believe you’ve already met Jeon Jungkook-ssi,” she gestures at the man sitting beside First Prince Taehyung.

“I have,” Wonwoo smiles at Jungkook, who mirrors it politely. Wonwoo’s eyes then travel to Taehyung beside him, who shoots him a boxy smile, cheerful as always.

“And the Third Prince has joined us as well,” the Queen coldly acknowledges, going back to eating her food.

At the mention of his presence, the table falls silent. Wonwoo’s eyes drift to Mingyu nervously, surprised to see Mingyu’s already looking at him. Wonwoo’s instinctively lowers his gaze but upon taking a moment to collect his thoughts, he forces a smile and looks up at Mingyu, “It’s been a while, Mingyu,”

Mingyu nods, “You too, Wonwoo,”

Looks like neither want to talk about their encounter this morning. Good.

The Queen clicks her tongue, “you are to call him hyeongnim,” she orders and Mingyu smirks defiantly. He doesn’t acknowledge her command and continues to eat his meal, much to her displeasure. But the Queen doesn't question it. Perhaps, under her cold exterior, she’s just glad to have her youngest son back after 6 long years. The family was beginning to think they'd never see Mingyu again. but…Mingyu’s here now and… no one knows why..

Wonwoo sneaks a glance at Mingyu, only to be caught by him yet again. His heart begins to pound loudly in his chest and he squeezes his eyes shut. Is Wonwoo not subtle enough? How can he get caught two times in a row? Wonwoo swallows and looks down at his food.

Surely, its not simply for Taehyung’s wedding. Or is it…

Wonwoo believes MIngyu has an ulterior motive for his abrupt return. It makes him anxious. It makes everyone anxious. The days, even months before his sudden departure were filled with tension. Especially between Mingyu and Jaekyung.

Awkward silence sets in.

Just another Monday for Wonwoo.

Well, he’s used to it.

Wonwoo sneaks one more glance, this time at Mingyu’s plate, devoid of any boiled eggs. Wonwoo straightens and turns his neck to the side, catching the attention of a server who rushes to him. He whispers in his ear and the server straightens, nodding. As Wonwoo gets back to eating, he notices the server offering Mingyu some boiled eggs, making the latter look up at Wonwoo. This time, Wonwoo avoids locking their eyes but feels Mingyu’s gaze on him for a while. A few moments later, that pressure is gone and Wonwoo looks up to see Mingyu taking a bite of the egg. Wonwoo smiles.

There is no chatter whilst eating, and all that can be heard is the sound of cutlery.

“Did you sleep well, Hyung?” Wonwoo whispers to Jaekyung, who’s distracted by his phone. Wonwoo’s mouth runs dry as Jaekyung swiftly shuts his phone and turns to him with a smile, “I did, love,” he says, taking Wonwoo’s hand, sliding his fingers in between his, “how about you?”

Wonwoo smiles, “I did,” he squeezes Jaekyung’s fingers softly, evoking a smile from the latter. Wonwoo wonders if he should learn to not be satisfied with fleeting moments like these.

“My, my, those two love birds seem to have forgotten table etiquette,” Taehyung jokes, and suddenly all eyes are on Jaekyung and Wonwoo.

Jaekyung smiles shyly, his hand leaving Wonwoo’s, “what, you jealous?” he cocks a brow at Taehyung, who shrugs, “how can I be jealous when I have Kookie,” he says and nudges Jungkook, whose only response it to blush.

Wonwoo chuckles. Jeon Jungkook is quite cute.

At the banter, even the Queen cracks a smile.

“Isn’t it funny? We are both married to Jeons,” Taehyung points out and Wonwoo chuckles. Jaekyung hums, impressed, “you’re right, Hyung. Now all we need is for Mingyu to get a Jeon for himself to complete the picture,”

And now, all attention is on Mingyu and the smile drops from Wonwoo’s face. Mingyu, who was concentrating on his meal, looks up at Jaekyung with displeased eyes. He knows Jaekyung’s trying to push his buttons.

Wonwoo purses his lips, nudging Jaekyung, “Hyung, why—“

But Jaekyung doesn’t stop, “What’s her name— Jeon Somi, the idol? I heard she’s popular these days. We can set you up with her,” Jaekyung jokes but no one at the table laughs. His words only make the situation more awkward than it already is. The youngest Prince just returned from what can only be described as a 6 year self-imposed exile and the Second Prince is already taunting him, trying to get a reaction from him.

But Mingyu smiles, seemingly unfazed by Jaekyung’s words.

“I don’t need to be set up with anyone. I’m more than capable of approaching the people I'm interested in,” Mingyu narrows his eyes at Jaekyung, and Wonwoo tenses.

Wonwoo watches Jaekyung clench his fists angrily. Wonwoo cant think of a time where Mingyu’s mere presence didn't agitate Jaekyung so much. Wonwoo’s about to intervene, given that everyone else has fallen silent, including the Queen who tends to overlook matters of sibling rivalry, but a smile erupts on Jaekyung’s lips, “you haven’t been back 2 seconds and you’re already running your mouth, eh, Mingyu-yah?”

Wonwoo gasps, “Hyung, how–”

Mingyu’s never been one to back down, “And you couldn’t keep your mouth shut either, could you, Hyung?” Mingyu retorts and the Queen slams her hand on the table, startling everyone, “Language!”

Mingyu and Jaekyung maintain stoic eye contact for a few moments before Jaekyung looks away, bringing his attention back to his food. With Jaekyung having backed down, Mingyu goes back to eating as well.

Wonwoo exhales, embarrassed that Jungkook had to witness such a thing. Wonwoo’s sure the Queen feels the same and will fuss about it all week.

“This is why we have rules,” she says, “no talking at the table,”

Jaekyung huffs and Mingyu remains silent but the tension is suffocating.

Wonwoo knows this is only the beginning of a tumultuous few days to come.

❀❀❀❀

Wonwoo only looks up from his book when the chair across him at the University Cafeteria is pulled out from under the table and sat on.

“Hey,” Mingyu says when their gazes lock, “its a little disheartening that you aren't as mesmerised as you used to be each time you saw me,” Mingyu winks and Wonwoo sighs, “I wasn't mesmerised, just overtly conscious because what if my tongue slips and suddenly I'm being executed in the local park for the citizens to see?”

Mingyu kicks Wonwoo in the shin, making the latter groan. Mingyu chuckles, “we stopped public executions in the 1940s,” and Wonwoo gasps, looking up at MIngyu with a surprised face. Mingyu laughs, “that. That’s the expression I wanted. Anyway, I was just kidding,” he chuckles and Wonwoo rolls his eyes.

Over the past few months, Wonwoo has realised that the Third Prince is quite foolish.

Wonwoo gets back to reading as MIngyu walks away to grab food for himself. Now that he’s been distracted, Wonwoo decides to take a short break and looks up, eyes following Mingyu who grabs a plate and heads to the food stations. Almost immediately, a small crowd gathers around Mingyu, reminding Wonwoo that at the end of the day, Mingyu’s still a Prince and a popular one at that. Everyone wants to be his friend.

Wonwoo notes the slight uneasiness on Mingyu’s face as he interacts with his peers before managing to slip away and hurry back to Wonwoo with a plate full of rice, kimchi, some soup and well, boiled eggs. Back at the table, Mingyu relaxes and smiles at Wonwoo, taking a bite of the boiled egg.

Wonwoo groans, “somehow, you feel less like a Prince when you practically inhale boiled eggs like this,”

MIngyu scoffs, “wah, how can you insult me like that so easily?” but Wonwoo knows he’s far from offended by his words. Mingyu’s like that – he doesnt take matters to heart. Or maybe he does, who knows. Wonwoo sees Mingyu 5 days a week and while he has a constant smile on his face, there’s something odd behind that smile that Wonwoo has yet to figure out. Wonwoo wonders what Mingyu even has to worry about. Hes good looking, he’s rich, he’s smart and he’s a freaking royal, for gods sake.

“Youre easy to insult,” Wonwoo shrugs and Mingyu hums, “you wont insult me when these guns grow bigger,” he says, flexing his biceps and Wonwoo snorts, amused by the Prince. Somehow, the fact that he doesnt seem like a Prince makes Mingyu all the more charming.

“Is that your answer sheet? Can I see?” Mingyu asks but he’s already pulling the sheet out of Wonwoo’s book before the latter can even approve. Its okay, Wonwoo doesnt mind. Initially, it bothered Wonwoo that Mingyu had a skewed notion of boundaries. Wonwoo assumed he was entitled, being a Prince and all. But Mingyu was just friendly. Wonwoo’s grown accustomed to it. Perhaps, spending time with Mingyu has allowed Wonwoo to break free of his narrow-mindedness.

“95? Damn! I got 94!” Mingyu chirps and Wonwoo hums, “Good job, Princess,” and Mingyu laughs lightly, “princess? Ill take it. Its better than being called a sweaty tomato,”

Wonwoo smirks at the memory. He was surprised about how he even came up with that nickname but come on, Mingyu had just returned from the gym and well, he was sweating and flushed. Wonwoo couldn resist the temptation. The opportuity was right there!

“Wait, is that a zero or an O? IN your roll number,” MIngyu points out and Wonwoo hums, replying lazily, “Its O, of course,”

Mingyu pauses, “As in O for Omega?”

Wonwoo looks up from his book, “yes? I’m an omega so my roll number has an O in it. I truly despise this system actually – I don't understand the need to incorporate our secondary genders in our roll numbers–”

“I didnt know you were an omega!” Mingyu declares and Wonwoo’s jaw drops to the floor, “you didnt?!”

Mingyu seems flabbergasted, “No! I thought you were a beta, dude!”

Wonwoo scoffs, “Wow, I didnt think the Third Prince was this airheaded,” he goes back to reading his book but halts, looking up, “what, you prejudiced against us or something?” he cocks a brow. MIngyu’s brows riase at the accusation and he shakes his head, “No, oh my god. I'm sorry it came off that way. I was just surprised because you…you don't look very….” Mingyu’s trying his best not to offend Wonwoo in any way, choosing his words wisely.

Wonwoo decides to go easy on him, “I know. I’m a recessive Omega. My omega genes are weak. I get heats only twice a year and look like a stereotypical beta, or sometimes even an alpha,” he explains. Mingyu swallows, “Oh…sorry dude, i had no idea,” and Wonwoo snickers, “whats there to be sorry about? Rather, I’m glad because we can be…us…Mingyu and Wonwoo and not…Third Prince Alpha Kim Mingyu and local insomniac omega Wonwoo,”

MIngyu bursts out laughing at that, attracting the attention of others. His laughter is contagious, making Wonwoo laugh as well.

“God, you're so dumb, Jeon Wonwoo,” MIngyu says.

Wonwoo just giggles.

❀❀❀❀

“I’m sure the suit is amazing, Hyung,” Wonwoo reassures Taehyung, who is currently fussing over his wedding suit. The two are on their way to the Tailor to make sure all is fine one last time before the wedding festivities start soon.

“I know it is. Kookie liked it too but…I just wanted your thoughts on it, hm? You always have nice insights, Wonwoo-yah,” Taehyung pats Wonwoo’s cheek, making the latter smile shyly.

“Wonwoo’s thoughts are fascinating indeed,” says a third voice, travelling with them to the Tailor’s shop. Wonwoo exhales and looks up at Mingyu, sitting in the passenger’s seat in the front, eyes looking at Wonwoo via the rear view mirror. Wonwoo averts his gaze, cheeks warm nevertheless.

“Ah, stop teasing him, Mingyu-yah,” Taehyung chuckles, showing no signs of resistance towards Mingyu unlike the rest of the family. The Queen and Jaekyung are yet to warm up to the Third Prince who recently returned.

“Why are you coming with us to this thing, anyway?” Wonwoo questions and Mingyu hums, “Maybe the real mystery here is why your husband isnt,”

Wonwoo swallows, feeling cornered by Mingyu’s words and his pointed gaze. Wonwoo pouts, looking out the window, “He had an important meeting. Plus, i doubt his insights would be useful,” Wonwoo adds the last bit sneakily and Taehyung snorts, “Jae couldn't even differentiate between the pink tie and the coral tie,”

Wonwoo giggles, “He can be like that. Good thing we possess a fashion sense, eh?”

MIngyu huffs, and Wonwoo narrows his eyes, “what, you have something to say?”

Taehyung claps his hands excitedly, “Ooh, i havent seen this color on Wonwoo in a while. I wonder what its about Mingyu that brings out this flavour of Wonwoo,”

Wonwoo shakes his head and Mingyu shrugs, “to answer Wonwoo’s question, you have zero fashion sense. You used to wear crocs to Uni. And to answer Taehyung hyung’s question, I think Wonwoo can't stand the fact that my charm overshadows his,” he says, winking at Wonwoo through the mirror.

Wonwoo licks his lips, reminding himself that there’s a driver accompanying them and that he cannot cuss at the Third Prince or lean forth and yank his collar to headbutt him. He just smiles at Mingyu, who smirks victoriously. There’s nothing vicious about it though, and Wonwoo ends up smiling actually. Its been a while since….since what? Since he joked around with someone? Since he bickered with someone?

Wonwoo looks up at the rear view mirror to find Mingyu already looking at him before promptly averting his gaze. Wonwoo gulps and turns to look out the window, heart racing.

“I've missed this,” Taehyung exhales, a soft smile on his lips. Wonwoo hums, smiling to himself.

Yeah. He’s missed this too.

–

“Champagne, Sir?” the server offers, and Wonwoo plucks out a glass, much to Mingyu’s surprise.

Mingyu picks up a glass and the Server walks away, leaving the two alone as Taehyung gets changed in the dressing room.

“I never thought you’d develop a tolerance for alcohol,” Mingyu says, and Wonwoo turns to him, “what?”

Mingyu eyes the champagne glass in his hand and the message is clear. Wonwoo purses his lips, “no I'm still light weight,” he clarifies, “I just drink because it’s rude to decline and it would raise unnecessary questions. ‘Why don’t you drink? Take one! Don’t kill the mood,” Wonwoo mimics some of the things he’s heard when he declined a glass of wine or champagne.’

Mingyu smirks at the imitations, “so does that mean you get completely wasted at these events?” and Wonwoo chuckles, “thankfully, no. I limit the number of my sips. Apparently just having a glass in your hand is enough,”

Mingyu scoffs, “True,” he says, “but never force yourself to drink, okay? Give the glass to Jae Hyung or whatever,” Mingyu averts his gaze at the last bit, and Wonwoo purses his lips into a thin smile, “Yeah,”

Silence sets in and Wonwoo’s thoughts emerge at the surface. He eyes the distance between them and licks his lips. There was a time they would cuddle up against each other while watching a movie but now— it feels like a distant dream to even address each other as old friends. Wonwoo doesn’t know if he should or even can close this distance between them.

Wonwoo sighs. Before any more of his thoughts ruin his mood, Taehyung walks out of the dressing room, clad in a white suit and a blazer that acts as a cape, draping his entire frame. It’s all white but it’s so magnificent. Only someone like Taehyung can pull this off.

Wonwoo stands up, placing his glass on the table before walking towards Taehyung, “You look gorgeous,” he says, fixing his hair and collar. Taehyung smiles, “Thanks, Wonwoo-yah. Mingyu-yah, how is it?” Taehyung addresses the man who walks over to them, halting next to Wonwoo, “I think feather earrings will complete the look,” he says and Taehyung gasps, “You’re right! I’ll look like a magnificent—“

“—duck,”

“—swan. Hey! What do you mean a duck?” Taehyung smacks Mingyu’s arm as Wonwoo laughs.

Mingyu’s smirk turns into a light laughter and Taehyung just giggles. All it took was once word for the atmosphere to morph into that of familiar comfort and nostalgia.

“Ah, I miss those days when the three of us would hang out together,” Taehyung says, pulling Wonwoo and Mingyu in a hug, “just spend hours together, laughing,” he sighs, “and now I’m getting married and…” he falls silent as Wonwoo and Mingyu hug him back, exchanging a brief glance. Back in the day, Mingyu, Wonwoo and Taehyung were best buds, as one says. They’d hang out every weekend and have a blast doing everything and anything. They were just kids back then. Of course, Jaekyung was studying abroad and didn’t meet Wonwoo until much later.

Taehyung pulls away, “time passes by so quickly,” he smiles at the two.

Does it, though? Because the last six years have been so excruciatingly slow for Wonwoo.

“For you, maybe. The last six years have been painfully slow,” Mingyu says and Wonwoo gasps inwardly. He glances at Mingyu who smiles softly at Taehyung.

The older omega just sighs and caresses Mingyu’s cheek, “I…don't know why you left so abruptly, Mingyu-yah. I spent countless wondering if I’d failed you as a hyung and—“

“Hyung, it’s —“ Mingyu tries to interject but Taehyung continues, “— I’ve missed you, hm? You’re my brother and the house wasn’t the same without you. So I just want to say that I’m glad you’re back, however briefly, for my Wedding,”

Mingyu takes a deep breath, his expression softening, his guard lowering. He just smiles at his Hyung and takes a good look at him, “You look amazing, Hyung. I’m happy for you,” he says candidly, and Taehyung chuckles, “finally being honest, hm?” he says, patting Mingyu’s cheek. Mingyu smiles, genuinely this time and it reminds Wonwoo of Mingyu from six years ago, bustling with energy.

“Maybe not as wonderful as Wonwoo though,” Taehyung remarks, and Wonwoo blushes, “Ah, Hyung. You know you’re prettier,” and Taehyung laughs.

“Thank you. But you looked so gorgeous on your wedding day. It’s was a winter wedding so you had that sweater vest, remember? He looked so beautiful, didn’t he, Mingyu-yah?”

Wonwoo tenses.

Mingyu….didn't attend the wedding. He left the night before and…

“He looked beautiful,” Mingyu says and Wonwoo gasps softly, looking up at Mingyu who refuses to meet his eyes. Wonwoo wonders if Mingyu’s lying or if he really…was at the wedding….

Wonwoo swallows thickly, heart racing.

“Can you go fetch me my wallet from the car?” Taehyung asks to clear the air and Mingyu nods, “okay,”

He turns around and walks away, and Taehyung turns to Wonwoo, “there’s another thing that has happened since Mingyu came back,”

Wonwoo raises his brows, “what's that?”

Taehyung purses his lips, “it’s the first time I’ve seen you laugh in years,”

As realization washes over Wonwoo’s face, his smile disappears.

❀❀❀❀

“If I knew you’d be like this, I wouldn’t have taken you out for drinks,” Mingyu groans, adjusting Wonwoo on his back.

Wonwoo grumbles drunkenly, hands loosely looped around Mingyu’s neck, legs around his waist. Wonwoo can barely keep his eyes open as Mingyu carries him back to the dorm.

“You’ve reduced the Prince to a horse carriage,” Mingyu chuckles as Wonwoo snuggles into his warm back, “cold…”

Mingyu huffs. Ah, Jeon Wonwoo. You’re a handful.

Mingyu smiles as Wonwoo groans in his ear. Well, it’s partially Mingyu’s fault for dragging Wonwoo out to a bar.

“You owe me a favour, Won,” Mingyu says, traversing the empty street alone.

Wonwoo hums, slurring his words, “you brought this upon yourself…” he says, “we could’ve gone in your car…”

Mingyu smiles.

“With the bodyguard and the driver? No way,” Mingyu says, “they would’ve told my Mom,”

Wonwoo hugs Mingyu tighter, “you snuck away. They’re gonna tell her anyway,”

Mingyu curses inwardly. Wonwoo’s right but it doesn’t matter. Mingyu would rather carry Wonwoo like this than zoom back home in the car.

Mingyu exhales. Wonwoo’s so light.

“I’ll tutor you, Prince Kim,” Wonwoo rambles and Mingyu laughs out loud, “yah! I got 94%! I don’t need you to tutor me,”

Wonwoo hiccups, “still less than me,”

Wow, the audacity of this brat —

“Shut up. Plus, I’ll never be as smart as you, Won~” Mingyu teases.

Wonwoo giggles, “it’s okay. You’re smart too, and popular and loved,”

Mingyu’s smile drops at that, “being popular and loved isn’t everything, Won,” he says. Wonwoo drones, “why not?”

“The reverence of others doesn’t hold any weight compared to the ones that you love,” Mingyu says.

Wonwoo frowns, as if trying to process the words, “I’m sure the people you care about care about you, Min-ah,”

Mingyu smiles bitterly, “I don’t know…”

Wonwoo hums, silence blanketing them.

“It’s okay,” Wonwoo says after a pause, “I’ll care about you. I don’t know if that will mean anything to you but I’ll care about you,”

Mingyu gulps, taken aback by Wonwoo’s words, spoken in a drunken stupor.

“That..” he clears his throat, “…would mean the world to me,”

Wonwoo doesn’t reply, his head falling onto Mingyu’s shoulder. Is he asleep?

Mingyu swallows.

Ah, Jeon Wonwoo…

Suddenly, Mingyu’s spooked by a horn. He turns around, blinded by the headlights of a Rolls Royce approaching him. Mingyu groans inwardly as the car stops and a man steps out, bowing to Mingyu, “Your royal highness,”

Mingyu shakes his head, “how did you find me?” he asks his bodyguard and the man straightens, “we never lost sight of you. We were just keeping a safe distance,”

Mingyu exhales.

The bodyguard opens the car door and Mingyu gives in to the compulsion. The university is far and he doesn’t know if he can take Wonwoo back safely.

Mingyu allows his bodyguard to pluck Wonwoo off his back, “careful,” he mutters as the man places Wonwoo inside the car.

Wonwoo stirs awake, still drunk, “hey, hey don’t take the Prince! Kidnap me instead! Leave him alone……” his words trail off towards the end and he passes out.

After a brief pause, Mingyu ends up laughing out loud as his bodyguard shuts the door. Wonwoo can be so….random at times.

Mingyu gets into the car as his laughter dies down, setting Wonwoo’s head on his lap.

“Idiot,” he murmurs as the car begins to move.

“Your Royal Highness, can I say something?” the driver speaks up and Mingyu turns to him, “what is it?”

The driver smiles at him via the rear view mirror, “It’s good to hear you laugh,”

Mingyu’s eyes widen and the car falls silent. His eyes travel down to the man sleeping on his lap.

It’s…nice to laugh too.

❀❀❀❀

“You didn’t have to accompany me here,” Wonwoo says as he and Mingyu ride the elevator to the top floor.

Mingyu slides his hands in his pocket, “I have nothing better to do at home,” he says and Wonwoo purses his lips, “could’ve used the opportunity to get to know Jungkook,”

Mingyu shrugs, “it’s not like we’re going to meet after the wedding…”

Oh.

“Right,” Wonwoo clears his throat, “how long are you here?”

Wonwoo doesn’t know why he thought Mingyu had come back to…stay, for good.

“I have a flight to Ireland on the day of the wedding,” Mingyu informs and Wonwoo doesn’t know how to react when he learns that Mingyu’s in Ireland. It’s so…far away…

Is he based there? Has he been there all these years? What does he do? Can Wonwoo even ask him all of these questions?

As Wonwoo’s brain gets muddled with these questions, they arrive at their destination and elevator doors open to reveal Seungkwan.

Wonwoo shoots him a smile.

“I’ve put those papers on your desk, sir,” Seungkwan informs. Wonwoo swallows, “thanks, Seungkwan-ah,”

Mingyu and Seungkwan acknowledge each other with a nod and the two part ways with Seungkwan.

“I’ll uh, show you Jae’s office,” Wonwoo says.

“What about yours?” Mingyu asks suddenly.

“Oh..after Jae’s we can head there,” Wonwoo smiles, pleased that Mingyu’s interested in seeing his office. On their way to Jae’s office, Wonwoo is greeted by his employees, who all also seem in awe of Mingyu. Some recognise him, others don’t, but they all stare at the man. Wonwoo chuckles to himself. Mingyu’s tall personality and handsome face attracts a lot of attention.

Wonwoo also knows that it makes him uncomfortable. While Wonwoo can’t make the attention go away, he can distract Mingyu.

“I didn’t think I’d see you again,” Wonwoo speaks up, and Mingyu turns to him, “Well, it’s Taehyung Hyung’s wedding so…”

Wonwoo smiles, “Is that all?”

“What?”

“Is that the only reason you…came back?” Wonwoo asks, hesitant. Mingyu blinks blankly, and then looks away, “well, there might have been something else,”

Wonwoo cocks a brow, “yeah?”

Mingyu turns to meet Wonwoo’s eyes, pausing for a moment before speaking up, “yeah,”

Wonwoo wills himself to not read in between the lines and turns to look ahead at Jaekyung’s cabin that they’re approaching. The blinds are down. Jaekyung must be in a meeting.

“It’s..good to have you back, Mingyu-yah,” Wonwoo says softly as they approach rhe door to Jae’s cabin.

Mingyu doesn’t answer but Wonwoo peeks a small smile on his lips.

Wonwoo glad that their familiarly hasn’t disappeared with time.

“Is Hyung in a meeting?” Wonwoo asks the guard outside and the man nods.

“Open the door, please,” Wonwoo commands softly and the man obliges, pushing open the door. Wonwoo walks in, folllwed by Mingyu.

However, the smile on his face drops when he sees a visitor in Jae’s office, a woman. Not just any woman but Lee Jiwoo, one of the most successful actresses of this country.

She’s seated on the couch and Jae on his seat, and the two seemed to be engaged in a hearty conversation based on Jae’s grin, which shortens when they notice Wonwoo and Mingyu.

“Oh,” Jae’s smile drops completely as Wonwoo tries to compose himself.

“Hey, love,” Jae stands up, and so does Jiwoo when she sees Wonwoo. She bows and Wonwoo forces himself to acknowledge her with a nod. Jiwoo looks graceful as always, dresssed in an elegant sundress and heels. She’s always excelled at color coordinating her makeup to her outfit, and the winged liner looks gorgeous on her eyes. The light blue coat only exemplifies her beauty.

“Hey,” Wonwoo forces a smile, “I didn’t know it was Jiwoo-ssi you were in a meeting with,”

This is what you missed Taehyung’s fitting for?

Jae smiles, “she graced us with her presence today luckily, haha,”

Jiwoo smiles sweetly at Wonwoo, who can’t bear to mirror her smile. Her eyes then float over to the man beside Wonwoo, “Ah, is that the Third Prince?” she asks, walking over to hug him, “it has been a while since I last saw you,”

But Mingyu avoids her hug, extending a hand instead, “Nice meeting you, Jiwoo-ssi,”

Albeit awkwardly, Jiwoo shakes Mingyu’s hand and turns around. Mingyu and Jiwoo must’ve met once or twice in certain occasions. They aren’t close.

Jiwoo is…Jae’s friend from college. They’re both Oxford graduates.

Wonwoo licks his lips, turning to Jae who’s smiling at Jiwoo. Wonwoo’s heart twists at the sight and he lowers his gaze as Jae steps out from behind his desk, “Ah, Mingyu. Consider yourself lucky for having run into my two favourite and beautiful omegas,” he laughs, pulling Wonwoo and Jiwoo under his arms. Jiwoo smiles, “You’re too much, Oppa,”

Mingyu watches them blankly and Wonwoo keeps his gaze lowered.

“Speaking of,” Jae turns to Mingyu, “what brings you here?”

Mingyu cocks a brow, “Wanted to see the Office,” he replies simply and Jae huffs, “Right. But I meant what brings you here, back in Seoul,”

Wonwoo looks up at Jae, “Hyung—“

“Taehyung’s wedding,” he replies, “what else?”

Jae smiles, “Of course. So, what do you do? Putting your business degree to use?

“Jae—“ Wonwoo tries to interject.

“Sorry, Jiwoo-yah, we haven’t gotten the chance to catch up back at home,” Jae says and turns to Mingyu.

Mingyu takes a deep breath, “Yeah I’m putting it to use,” he says, an apt answer to Jae’s question.

Jae’s jaw tightens, but his smile doesn’t waver, “Let’s talk at dinner, hm?”

Wonwoo relaxes, releasing his breath. It’s an invitation for Mingyu to leave and it’s best Mingyu accepts it.

Mingyu just smirks, “Right,”

Wonwoo intervenes, “Jiwoo-ssi, are you leaving? Let me escort you to your car,” he says but Jiwoo just smiles, “It’s okay, Wonwoo-yah. I have a few more things to talk about with Jae,”

Wonwoo clenches his fists.

“Won, let’s go. You said you’d show me your cabin,” Mingyu speaks up, and Wonwoo gasps softly, looking up at the man.

Jae cocks a brow, “Didn't Mom tell you to call him Hyeongnim? He’s not your friend, Mingyu-yah,”

Wonwoo swallows and Mingyu huffs, “Hyeongnim,” he mocks, “you coming?”

“No!” Wonwoo snaps, surprised at his own tone. He looks up at Mingyu and can feel the weight of Jae and Jiwoo’s gaze on him.

“No I uh, I’ll stay here, look over some reports as…Hyung and Jiwoo-ssi talk,” Wonwoo smiles. Jae and Jiwoo seem obviously disappointed by the proposition but neither oppose it.

Mingyu just stares at Wonwoo, as if trying to figure him out. And after a moment, it looks like he does.

“I’ll see you guys at home,” Mingyu says and walks away, leaving Wonwoo with a racing and aching heart.

When Mingyu exits the office, Wonwoo smiles at Jiwoo, “please, sit, Jiwoo-ssi. We ought to catch up as well,”

Jiwoo just smiles uncomfortably.

But even then, Wonwoo still feels like he’s lost.

❀❀❀❀

“What should I call the queen? Should I call her the Queen? Queen ma’am? Queen madam?” Wonwoo rambles on their way to Mingyu’s place.

Sorry.

Palace.

Mingyu’s a Prince.

Mingyu just rolls his eyes at Wonwoo as the bodyguard in the front just laughs, “Wonwoo-ssi, you must call her Your Majesty,” he informs.

Wonwoo pauses, “ah, of course. This idiot here completely erased that from my mind,” he says, nudging Mingyu who just sighs.

Wonwoo pouts, “what are you so down about?” he asks in a low voice. Mingyu shakes his head, “it’s nothing,”

Wonwoo purses his lips, “what, am I too embarrassing to be introduced to your family? You know I just..joke around a little, right?”

Mingyu whips his head around, “no! That’s not it at all! I…”

Wonwoo watches him expectantly and Mingyu sighs. He eyes the bodyguard and leans closer to Wonwoo, “just know beforehand that…they can be a little much,”

Wonwoo blinks, “I understand,” he says, despite not understanding completely what Mingyu’s trying to say. B

“Just….we’ll meet them and head back, okay?” Mingyu says. Wonwoo doesn’t resist.

Mingyu’s oddly cagey about his family and Wonwoo doesn’t want to question him about that. He’ll keep his quiet and do as Mingyu wishes.

“Are you sure you don’t want to stay back with your family? It’s Chuseok after all,” Wonwoo suggests and Mingyu shakes his head, exhaling, “Nah,” he glances at his bodyguard, “I’d rather be at the dorm, with you,”

Wonwoo hums.

He doesn’t want to pester Mingyu any more.

The moment Wonwoo walks through those lavish doors, he’s tackled in a tight hug. For a second, Wonwoo doesn’t even know who he’s hugging. But when the man does pull back, Wonwoo gasps, “F-First Prince Taehyung—“ he goes stiff as the older omega laughs, “hahaha hello! It’s so nice to meet you! Mingyu keeps chewing my ear off about you,”

And Mingyu nudges Taehyung, “Hyung!” and Wonwoo laughs, recovering from the shock of getting to hug the first prince right away.

Taehyung clicks his tongue, “Thank you for visiting us on Chuseok! Mingyu never brings home any of his friends,” he links his arm with Wonwoo, dragging him down the hallway.

Well, Mingyu did warn Wonwoo that his family can be a bit much. But he never expected them to be—friendly much.

“Let go of him!” Mingyu grabs Wonwoo and yanks him to his side. Wonwoo sighs, relieved as Taehyung crosses his arms, “are you gonna be this jealous when Jae or Mom touch him?”

“Jae’s not here and Mom’s not gonna touch him! They’re not you and know their boundaries,” Mingyu defends and Wonwoo chuckles. It’s nice to see Mingyu in a different light.

“First of all, I have boundaries too. And second, Jae’s here,” Taehyung says.

Mingyu blinks, “oh,”

Wonwoo senses Mingyu’s relationship with the Second Prince might not be the best.

“Wonwoo-yah,” Taehyung plucks Wonwoo from Mingyu’s grasp, “let’s go meet Mom,”

Wonwoo swallows nervously because the one Taehyung is so callously calling his mom is none other than the Queen of this country.

“Hyung, actually —“ Mingyu interjects, “Wonwoo and I need to leave,”

Wonwoo turns around and frowns, “what?”

Mingyu swallows, “Hwan messaged me. He left his inhaler in our room. Asthma,”

Taehyung turns ro Wonwoo with a confused look, but Wonwoo can sense the urgency in Mingyu’s being so he decides to go along with it.

“What? We must hurry back. It gets really bad if he doesn’t have his inhaler,” Wonwoo says, stepping closer to Mingyu and grabbing his hand, which seems to be shaking. Wonwoo gasps, looking up at Mingyu and noticing the worry on his face.

Just what’s wrong…

“Ah, okay,” Taehyung says, “next time then, hm?” He sounds disappointed.

Wonwoo licks his lips and bows, “we are so sorry. Please do join us at our dorm sometime. Perhaps there we can have unsupervised fun,”

Taehyung laughs at that, “sounds like a nice plan,”

Wonwoo just smiles. He turns around and follows Mingyu back to the car.

The ride back home is silent, and so is their journey up the stairs.

Wonwoo doesn’t question Mingyu’s behaviour. He just goes along with it. Mingyu probably had a good reason for it.

When they get to their room, Wonwoo’s surprised when Mingyu pulls him in for a hug. Wonwoo hugs him back, patting his back and feeling Mingyu relax.

“Happy Chuseok,” Mingyu murmurs in his embrace, and Wonwoo just pulls him closer, “happy Chuseok,”

Mingyu’s heart is beating so fast. Wonwoo wonders why…

“Thank you,” Mingyu says and Wonwoo smiles, “no problem,”

Mingyu pulls away, “I promise — when I’m ready, I’ll tell you everything,”

Wonwoo smiles, “you don’t have to—“ but Mingyu interjects, locking his hands with Wonwoo’s, “I want to,”

Wonwoo just swallows, eyes locked into Mingyu’s, heart pounding loudly in his chest.

“I’ll listen,” Wonwoo promises.

Mingyu smiles and pulls him in for another hug.

❀❀❀❀

Wonwoo chalks it up to his trembling hands and the cold weather that he can’t get this damn wing right. He wets his finger and smudges the failed attempt off, leaning closer to his phone and trying again.

And just when he thinks he’s going to get a perfect wing, it derails. Wonwoo just sighs and drops his eyeliner, face in his palms.

This is..a lot harder than he’d thought…

Just as Wonwoo’s about to attempt again, he’s surprised by a knock on his door. Wonwoo walks out of his dressing room and towards the door, “who is it?”

“It’s me,” the voice says, and Wonwoo tenses. He takes one look at his attire and clears his throat, “come in,”

The door creaks open and Mingyu walks in, smiling at Wonwoo, dressed in casual sweats.

“I thought you’d be asleep by now,” Mingyu says, and Wonwoo smiles, “no just uh…I was about to..head back to Jae…”

Mingyu licks his lips, “I uh, I had to talk to you about something,”

Wonwoo raises his brows, “what is it?”

Mingyu reaches out to take Wonwoo’s hand but halts, retreating his hand, “let’s sit,”

“Right,”

Wonwoo and Mingyu both settle on the bed and for a hot minute, Mingyu just looks around.

“Minimalist as always,” he comments and Wonwoo huffs, “I guess. I don’t have a taste for…grandiose items like the others,”

Mingyu chuckles, “I wouldn’t be surprised if I snooped around and found a stack of ramen,”

Wonwoo laughs lightly, “they’re on the shelf above my closet,” and Mingyu laughs out loud. Wonwoo giggles. He loves hearing Mingyu laugh.

It’s nice that they’ve fallen back into their…comfort. But Wonwoo knows it’s only temporary and a bitterness sets in.

“So, what did you want to speak about?” Wonwoo asks and Mingyu turns to him, “oh, right,”

With his hair not styled or slicked back, Mingyu looks a lot like he did back then — youthful.

“Nothing I just.. it was about today, at the office,”

Wonwoo tenses.

“You seemed a little frazzled and I just—“

“There was nothing to be frazzled about,” Wonwoo corrects, lowering his gaze. Mingyu swallows, “Wonwoo, I…I know what’s going on, okay?”

Wonwoo stops breathing.

“Won—“

“No you don’t know anything, Mingyu,” Wonwoo feels defensive all of a sudden.

“Won, I know. Jae and Jiwoo—“

“Don’t..” Wonwoo cuts him off, “there’s…nothing going on, okay? It’s..it’s not like that,”

Mingyu purses his lips, “Wonwoo, I know—“

“How can you know, Mingyu?!” Wonwoo raises his voice, “you haven’t been here for the last 6 years!”

Mingyu’s eyes widen and Wonwoo continues, “you don’t know anything! You don’t know how we’ve been, how I’ve been— you…”

He trails off towards the end, panting heavily. He feels cornered, he feels ashamed that…Mingyu found out, of all people and…

Truth is, Wonwoo sensed that he didn’t like Wonwoo’s alliance with Jaekyung. He suspected that it was one of the reasons that Mingyu…left. And Wonwoo…the alliance he’d so proudly accepted turned out to be a total sham today and…it’s just so embarrassing, especially in front of Mingyu…

Mingyu exhales, “I’m sorry,” he begins, “I know I’ve…I know I left and….I’m sorry for everything,”

Wonwoo gulps and looks up at Mingyu, regret evident on his face. His gaze softens and Mingyu continues, “I…I know he’s cheating on you, Won,”

And now that that’s out in the open, Wonwoo screws his eyes shut, trying to even out his breathing. He shakes his head, gasping when he feels Mingyu’s hand on his, his eyes sympathetic.

“Just…this is none of your business, Mingyu,” Wonwoo says.

Mingyu huffs in disbelief, “just like it wasn’t back then, right?”

Wonwoo springs to his feet, “fuck, okay! Go ahead and gloat! Say I told you so! Go on, brag!”

Mingyu just watches Wonwoo with misty eyes, saddened at the state of his dear friend.

“Call me an idiot for agreeing to the marriage! Call me an idiot for choosing him! Go ahead!” Wonwoo says, shaking.

“I’m not here to do that!” Mingyu promptly corrects, “I just...wanted to check up on you, okay? I know that Jiwoo—“

“I don’t care about her, okay?! So just…” Wonwoo’s jaw tightens, “she doesn’t affect me as much as you think she does,”

Mingyu nods and reaches out his hand. Wonwoo pulls away and Mingyu swallows, “May I?”

Wonwoo, though upset, nods. Mingyu sighs and caresses his cheek, thumb hovering over his eyelid, “then why are you trying to learn the wing liner, Hyung?”

Wonwoo’s eyes widen. Mingyu just stares at him with empathetic eyes.

Wonwoo lowers his gaze, speechless.

“Is that why you don’t have mirrors in your room? Because you don’t like looking at yourself?”

“Just shut up!” Wonwoo scolds, “Just shut it!” he’s shaking but Mingyu takes his hand, “Wonwoo, please—“

“You…were you at the wedding?” Wonwoo asks, breathless, choking up. Too much is happening at once.

Mingyu swallows, “I was,”

Oh.

Mingyu was there.

But he never once came to greet Wonwoo, he didn’t even say goodbye he just…disappeared…

“And?” Wonwoo asks, eyes teary. Mingyu swallows, “you looked so beautiful,”

Those words affect Wonwoo a lot more than he thought they would. He lowers his gaze, “Well, I am an omega so…”

“No,” Mingyu corrects, “you are you. And you are beautiful, always,” he gives Wonwoo’s hand a squeeze.

Wonwoo’s lips quiver and his tears wet his lashes.

“Why?” Wonwoo looks up at Mingyu, “why did you come back? Why did you…leave?” His voice trembles and Mingyu attempts to lean in, pull him in for a hug but Wonwoo pulls away. He can’t allow that.

“Won, I…” Mingyu takes a deep breath, “I came back for you,”

Wonwoo’s eyes grow, “…what?”

“Won—“

“What do you mean?” Wonwoo stands up, “what—“

Mingyu grabs his hand, holding on firmly, “You know what I mean. I came back for you, Won,”

Wonwoo’s heart races, he can hear it in his ears…

Is Mingyu implying that….

“I’ve come to take you with me, Wonwoo,” he declares and Wonwoo gasps.

“Mingyu, you…”

Mingyu swallows, eyes determined and voice unshaken.

“I’m asking you to run away with me, Wonwoo,”

Chapter 3: Mingyu and Wonwoo

Chapter Text

Wonwoo stands frozen in his place, eyes wide and lips parted as soft breaths escape his mouth, completely taken aback by Mingyu’s declaration.

“What did you just say?” Wonwoo breathes out, unable to peel his eyes off Mingyu, who watches him expectantly, fear and anticipation evident in his eyes.

Mingyu swallows, repeating, “I want you to run away with me, Won,” and Wonwoo finally processes his words, stumbling backwards. He turns around and scoffs, trying to even his breathing. “Wha— how— how could you even say that?”

“I know you’re not happy here—“

“How do you know?! You weren’t here for the last six years! You left, Mingyu!” Wonwoo turns around, raising his voice suddenly.

Mingyu clenches his fists, “I know because I’ve lived here too. I was never happy here. Why do you think I chose to live in a dorm when I had the facility to commute to college every single day?”

Wonwoo gulps, fingers trembling. He knows it couldn’t have been easy for Mingyu here. Mingyu’s always been a feee bird and this palace, a cage. Wonwoo feels trapped too.

“I can’t just leave with you, Mingyu,” Wonwoo says with a shaky sigh, “I have responsibilities here that—“

“They’re not your responsibilities, Won. They’re Jaekyung’s! You’re just cleaning up after him! You’re doing his work for him! You manage the company, you organize charity events, fundraisers, you meet people, you meet investors, you— don’t you see?! You’ve become their PR vehicle!” Mingyu says.

“Have you ever stopped to think that maybe I enjoy charity? I enjoy helping people, hm?” Wonwoo accuses, and Mingyu falls silent. He swallows thickly, “Won, you know what I mean,”

Yes, Wonwoo knows what Mingyu means but he needs to nip this in the bud.

“I can’t walk away from this marriage,” Wonwoo says, lowering his gaze.

This marriage, this….public marriage…

“What marriage?” Mingyu asks and Wonwoo gasps, looking up. Mingyu continues, “Jae is cheating on you—“

“Shut it! Just shut it, Kim Mingyu!” Wonwoo yells, lips quivering and eyes watering. Mingyu falls silent as Wonwoo catches his breath. He doesn’t dare to raise his head and match Mingyu’s gaze.

Wonwoo hates being reminded of it. He hates being reminded of the fact that his husband doesn’t care for him. That he would rather love another Omega.

“About Jae and I,” Wonwoo breathes out, “that is our private matter—“

“Just walk away, Won. Come with me. You and I can—“

“You and I can what, Mingyu?” Wonwoo huffs, “You are my brother-in-law. Don’t cross the line,” he warns. Mingyu gulps.

“We are friends, first,” Mingyu says, closing the distance between them, taking Wonwoo’s hand in his, “and after that…”

Wonwoo’s heart skips a beat as he looks up at Mingyu, who raises Wonwoo’s hand and kisses his knuckles. Where Mingyu’s lips touch his skin, it burns and Wonwoo gasps.

“You already know,” Mingyu sighs, “we were always a little more than just friends,” he whispers and Wonwoo’s breath hitches as Mingyu’s lips trace his knuckles.

Warmth rushes to Wonwoo’s cheeks and he lowers his gaze, “I cannot come with you, Mingyu-yah. It might’ve easy for you to walk away but it’s not for me,”

Mingyu’s expression shifts.

“Easy?” he asks, “Do you think it was easy for me to walk away from you?”

Wonwoo purses his lips, “Mingyu—“

“I think it’s time you stop fooling yourself and admit that you’ve always known that I liked you,”

Wonwoo screws his eyes shut. Well, the cat’s out of the bag.

“Mingyu—“

“I left so I could get strong enough to come back and take you with me,” Mingyu boldly declares, “and that’s what I’m asking of you,” his voice softens, “Please, Wonwoo. Run away with me. Leave this place,”

Wonwoo looks up at Mingyu helplessly, shaking his head, “you know I can’t,” he whispers.

“Why not?” Mingyu tugs Wonwoo’s hand, getting the older closer to him, “why won’t you choose me?”

Wonwoo locks eyes with Mingyu’s, licking his lips, “It’s less about choosing you and more about being trapped here,”

Mingyu’s eyes grow.

“I’m not Wonwoo. I am Prince Wonwoo, husband of the Second Prince of Korea. I am the People’s Prince and these are the titles that I cannot run away from,” Wonwoo says, lowering his gaze, “I cannot come with you, Mingyu. I’m married, to your brother no less. I cannot do this to him,”

Mingyu’s jaw tightens.

“Won—“

“Please, forget about me. I can manage here. You should attend Taehyung’s marriage and be on your way,” Wonwoo says, walking past Mingyu to go to his bed.

Mingyu stands there, feet cemented to the spot.

Awkward silence befalls, and Wonwoo’s about to ask Mingyu to leave when the latter speaks up, “I am going to court you, Jeon Wonwoo,”

Wonwoo frowns, “what?”

Mingyu turns around and walks to Wonwoo, kneeling in front of him. He takes Wonwoo’s hand and kisses it, looking up with a smile, “I am going to court you, Wonwoo-ssi,”

Wonwoo’s cheeks heat up and he swallows nervously, “Mingyu—“

Mingyu simply stands up and bows, “See you tomorrow,” he says with a wink and turns around to leave the room.

Wonwoo freezes, his heart beating wildly in his chest.

What…has he gotten himself into?

❀❀❀❀

Not to beat his own drum but Wonwoo knows he’s a decent looking guy. He might not have had people lining up to get a chance to talk to him, but he has had his fair share of suitors who expressed a desire to date him.

Wonwoo turned them down mostly — it’s not that his parents were strict or anything but Wonwoo was far too busy with his studies. He dated a little when he first joined the university; he went on a couple of dates, but that’s about it.

Wonwoo had decided he wouldn’t miss it as much — dating, being desired, whatever you call it. But lately, Wonwoo’s been feeling a little…unseen.

No one comes up to him. He’s even lost the ability to make heads turn. He just doesn’t get it. Has he gotten old? He’s just 23! Has he become ugly? What has gone wrong? It’s as if he’s fallen off the radar.

It’s been this way lately and that’s why when the bartender tells him a gentleman across the table has bought him a drink, Wonwoo’s surprised. Wonwoo looks to his right, seeing a man sitting across him, eyeing him with a soft smile.

Wonwoo swallows, feeling conscious, but he knows he has to play it cool. He raises his drink at him, “thank you,” he mouths, and the man grins charmingly, winking at Wonwoo.

Oh, my.

The man stands up and begins to walk towards Wonwoo, making his heart race.

Oh my god! Oh my god!

What a handsome man, and he’s interested in Wonwoo??

Wonwoo looks over his shoulder at the crowd of people dancing on the dance floor, Mingyu being one of them, swaying to the tunes with his friends.

Okay.

Good.

He’s busy.

Wonwoo turns back around, only to get spooked by the man who stops next to him. Wonwoo swallows and smiles, “Hi,” he says as the man leans against the bar counter, “Hey,” he leans closer to Wonwoo, eyes visibly checking Wonwoo out.

God, Wonwoo has the chills and his heart begins to race. It’s been a while… but he likes it.

“This may sound cheesy but what’s a pretty little omega like you doing here? All alone?” he leans in and Wonwoo bites his lips. So he can tell Wonwoo’s an Omega. That’s nice…

Wonwoo is often mistaken for Betas and Alphas so it’s nice to be recognised for what he truly is.

“Just accompanying my friend,” Wonwoo says, taking a sip of his drink. The man leans closer to Wonwoo with a smug smile on his face, “do you think your friend will mind if I whisk you away for the night—“ but the man stops abruptly.

Wonwoo’s smile drops as the man pulls away, a frown on his face.

“Is everything okay?” Wonwoo asks as the man steps back, shaking his head, “No. But, um, enjoy your drink,” he says and turns around, walking away.

What….?

What the fuck?!

“Who was that guy?” Wonwoo feels an arm around his neck and groans, downing his drink as Mingyu leans onto him.

“Some jerk,” Wonwoo curses under his breath, “come, we have to go home now,” he tugs at Mingyu’s arm and the latter simply complies, following his friend out of the bar.

—

“And he just left?” Jeonghan asks and Wonwoo sighs, planting his head on the table at the cafe, “he was so handsome too,” he sulks and Jeonghan chuckles.

“Is Wonungie sexually frustrated?” Jeonghan teases and Wonwoo sits up, face warm, “not frustrated per se but…deprived,” he shrinks into his seat and Jeonghan laughs.

“I feel like studying so much has made me ugly,” Wonwoo says and Jeonghan hums, “Wonwoo-yah, so you really think that’s why that man walked away?”

“Because he saw how ugly I looked up close? Yes,” Wonwoo says blankly and Jeonghan giggles.

“No, Wonungie,” he pats his head, “you don’t know, do you?”

Wonwoo raises his brows, “know what?”

Jeonghan exhales.

“Alphas don’t come near you because you smell like an Alpha,” Jeonghan says. Wonwoo blinks, “But I am an omega?”

Jeonghan sighs, shaking his head, “yes but your roommate, whom you hang around with 24x7 is an alpha,”

It takes Wonwoo a few moments to process that sentence and when he does, his eyes widen and he gasps, “that bastard!”

Jeonghan laughs.

“No wonder they haven’t been coming to me! It’s all Kim Mingyu’s fault,” he says, sniffing his hoodie and— yes, this smells like Mingyu as well.

Anger bubbles in Wonwoo until he realises it’s not really Mingyu’s fault. It’s just a natural consequence of living with the Alpha.

Wonwoo calms down and exhales, “poor guy, what does he know…” he utters and Jeonghan frowns, “huh? Wonwoo-yah, you do know that Mingyu is doing this on purpose, right?”

“What?”

“His scent lingers on you. It’s intense and repulsive to other Alphas. That isn’t a natural consequence of your proximity. Mingyu’s deliberately releasing his pheromones and scent around you, marking you,” Jeonghan explains.

Wonwoo’s face hardens, “what?! No…why would he do that?”

Jeonghan purses his lips, “have you considered the fact that he likes you?”

Whoa, whoa, whoa!

Mingyu like Wonwoo? That cannot be possible!

“Hyung, now you’re just saying things,” Wonwoo chuckles, “Mingyu could never like me,”

It doesn’t make sense. Mingyu’s never really… it doesn’t make sense!

Jeonghan licks his lips, “alright. I’ve told you what I think. The rest is upto you,”

While Jeonghan puts the matter to rest, the wheels in Wonwoo’s mind continue to churn.

Mingyu? Like him?

No way.

—

“Do you like me, Mingyu?” Wonwoo asks. There is no point in dwelling on the matter alone when you can just get clarity from the subject of the matter.

Mingyu, who was browsing through his phone, looks up with a surprised expression, “what?”

Wonwoo purses his lips and walks over to Mingyu’s bed, settling down, “I said, do you like me? Romantically?”

Mingyu’s face turns a bright red color, “w-what? W-why would you ask me that?!”

Wonwoo swallows, “Jeonghan Hyung told me I smell like you and that’s why Alphas don’t approach me anymore. He also said that it’s likely that you were deliberately marking me. Is that true?”

Mingyu listens with a horrified expression.

Wonwoo takes a deep breath, “do you like me, Mingyu-yah?” he asks clearly this time, eyes firmly locked into Mingyu’s. Wonwoo’s own cheeks feel warm.

Mingyu only stares at him, and then, speaks up, “No, I don’t like you, romantically that is,”

Wonwoo releases the breath he’d been holding and straightens, “I see,”

He should feel relieved, but a part of him feels disappointed.

“I mean, I don’t really view you as an omega,” Mingyu continues, “you’re my bro, my dude, yeah? Hahaha,”

Wonwoo smiles, “Yeah, haha. Same here. You’re my guy,” he punches Mingyu’s arm, making the other wince slightly.

Wonwoo chuckles, getting off the bed, “I guess the scent is because we live together and share clothes. Nothing more, hm?”

Mingyu smiles, “nothing more,”

Wonwoo nods and grabs a towel, “let’s eat ramen once I get out the bath,” he says and Mingyu chuckles, “sure thing!”

When Wonwoo enters the washroom, his smile drops and he turns to the mirror.

Not an omega, huh…

He exhales.

Things are better this way.

❀❀❀❀

‘I’m going to court you’

The words echo in Wonwoo’s mind, making his eyeliner go awry.

Damn it.

With warm cheeks, he wipes away the eyeliner and exhales. He takes a moment to collect himself and mentally curses Mingyu for saying what he did.

‘I’m going to court you’

Kim Mingyu, you really—

Wonwoo splashes some water on his face.

‘I’m going to court you’

Stop!

How can he say that?? Did he forget he said he never viewed Wonwoo as an omega? As a potential mate? How can Mingyu—

Wonwoo dabs his face dry, exhaling. Yes, he’s aware feelings can change over time and yes, he’s aware Mingyu could’ve been lying back then but…

‘I’m going to court you’

Ah, Wonwoo’s going to go crazy. He grabs some moisturizer and rubs it into the flesh of his skin.

Kim Mingyu, the Third Prince of Korea, asked the Second Prince’s husband, his Hyeongnim, Jeon Wonwoo, to run away with him.

This situation is just as complicated as that sentence.

Wonwoo dabs some compact powder into his face, grabbing the eyeliner once again to draw on a wing.

Maybe it’s not that complicated.

Kim Mingyu asks his college roommate and friend to run away with him.

…

Wonwoo wishes it was as simple as that.

But they’re not just Mingyu and Wonwoo anymore.

They’re important public figures in the country.

Wonwoo stares into the front camera, attempting another wing but he stops. He gives up and puts the eyeliner down. He rubs some eyeshadow onto the tip of his finger and spreads it across his eye lid.

Right on time, Wonwoo hears a knock on the door. He sighs and stands up, patting his cheeks and willing these thoughts away.

The doors open and Seungkwan appears, bowing, “Good Morning, your royal highness,” he says and Wonwoo smiles, “Good Morning,”

Wonwoo begins to walk down the hallway with Seungkwan in tow.

“Did you apply blush, your royal highness? It looks good,” Seungkwan says and Wonwoo frowns, but quickly realises.

“Ah, uh, yes,” he clears his throat, his blush deepening. Damn it…

‘I’m going to court you’

Kim Mingyu, get out of his brain!

“By the way, something has happened,” Seungkwan says and Wonwoo cocks a brow, “what?”

Seungkwan sighs.

“The paparazzi have spotted the Third Prince,”

Oh.

Oh, that’s not good.

—

The Queen tosses the newspaper onto the dining table, sighing frustratedly, “We knew this was going to happen the moment you set foot in Korea,” she begins, “so there is no need to worry,”

Wonwoo takes a peek at the photograph printed on the first page of the newspaper, with the headlines reading,

“The Lost Prince returns! Battle to the throne resumes!”

Wonwoo huffs inwardly. Mingyu’s never shown any interest in claiming the throne. This is a foolish headline.

“I’m not worried,” Mingyu says plainly, as Taehyung sighs, “I think we should worry about how this was taken in the office parking lot. That’s a security concern,”

Wonwoo hums. Taehyung’s right. Mingyu rode with Wonwoo and it’s an issue because they were being tailed and were even followed into the parking lot, which is restricted to employees.

“We need to catch this bastard. Alert the PR team. I bet if we pay these leeches some money, they’ll open their mouths,” Jaekyung speaks up.

Mingyu scoffs, bringing everyone’s attention to him.

“What’s so funny, Mingyu?” Jae asks and Wonwoo sighs and pulls out his lip balm, applying it on his chapped lips. He caps his balm and looks up at Mingyu, only to see him already watching him, particularly his lips.

Growing conscious, Wonwoo averts his gaze. Kim Mingyu, stop staring! It’s as if he’s not holding back anymore.

Wonwoo unconsciously licks his lips and Mingyu clears his throat, “Nothing funny. It’s just that there is a chance it was an employee that clicked this photo, since they’re the only ones allowed in the parking lot,”

A collective gasp erupts in the dining room. Mingyu’s right.

“It cannot be one of our employees,” Jae defends and Mingyu shrugs, “You may be right. Maybe it’s someone who has been given special clearance to the parking lot. Non-employee visitors,”

Wonwoo tenses and Jae clenches his fists, “Mingyu—“

“That is not allowed,” the Queen interrupts, taken aback by the information, “which non-employee could we possibly have given this clearance to? It’s a security breach!” She addresses Jae, who has been put on the spot.

Wonwoo lowers his gaze. There is only one name that comes to mind.

Jiwoo.

Jaekyung remains silent. He is the one responsible for signing off on any special clearances. Surely, he has to know. He does know, but he isn’t going to speak up.

The Queen seems to piece two and two together: “It’s not Jiwoo, is it?” and Jae groans, “Eomma, Jiwoo wouldn’t do this,”

“Does she have a clearance or not, Kim Jaekyung!” she demands and the table falls silent. Jae exhales, avoiding eye contact with Wonwoo, “Yes, Eomma,”

The Queen’s face morphs into one of surprise, and she huffs, “An investigation will be launched to look into this security concern. I do not care that she is your friend. Jiwoo will be interrogated by the Royal Guard.

Jae attempts to protest, but the Queen doesn’t bother looking at him a second time. She turns to Mingyu, “As for you—“

“I will make a public appearance, I know,” Mingyu says, surprising the Queen.

“Well, yes,”

Mingyu nods, “I heard Hyeongnim is going to inaugurate a library at a nearby high school. I will accompany him to that,”

Wonwoo gasps softly and Jae springs to his feet, “I cannot allow that,”

The Queen frowns, annoyed, “and why not? Are you going to accompany Wonwoo?”

Jaekyung is lost for words.

“I-I can,” Jaekyung says. The Queen scoffs, “Second Prince Jaekyung, not only were you supposed to attend the event, you were also Chief Guest,”

Jaekyung purses his lips, guilty. The Queen continues, “since you were busy, I let you off the hook and put Wonwoo on the task. Now, you tell me you are willing to accompany him? Was being occupied with work a lie to get out of attending this event? Or have you been distracted?”

Wonwoo swallows nervously. He wishes to defend Jaekyung but he cannot. Instead, he sneaks a glance at Mingyu, who winks at him when their eyes lock. Idiot…

“Eomma, I—“

“Enough,” she says, “Mingyu, you accompany your Hyeongnim to the event. That is all. I will see everyone for dinner,”

The Queen basically storms out of the dining hall, leaving the youngsters to sit and ponder.

“Good luck with the event, Wonwoo-yah,” Taehyung says, standing up. Wonwoo stands up as well, “Hyung, how are wedding preparations? All good? Forgive me, I will be busy today,”

Taehyung smiles, “I can manage one day without your inputs, Wonwoo-yah,” he giggles and Wonwoo sighs.

“I’ll see you guys for dinner,” he says and walks away, leaving Mingyu, Jaekyung and Wonwoo in the dining hall. The worst possible trio to exist.

Jae seems to be seething with anger, and Wonwoo exhales, about to address him, when Mingyu stands up, “Hyeongnim,” he calls and Wonwoo turns to him with a blush and a scowl adorning his face. Mingyu licks his lips, subduing a smile, “let us go,”

Wonwoo shakes his head.

“I’ll take my leave, dear,” Wonwoo says and leans into kiss Jae, but the latter dodges it, “See you,”

Offended, Wonwoo straightens and turns around, unable to meet Mingyu’s eyes.

“Let us go,” he says and Mingyu follows him.

Thankfully, he says nothing.

❀❀❀❀

Well, apart from being ordered to not step a foot outside without a bodyguard, the other reason Mingyu dislikes being in public is because he’s easily recognized.

“It’s the Prince!” one person says, passing Mingyu, who’s seated at the bus stand. The stand is right outside his university, so it’s mostly students. But it’s still a pain in the ass.

“Hey Prince!” Someone says, passing by. Mingyu shoots them and quick smile and brings his eyes back to his phone.

“Prince! Going home?” Another asks and Mingyu smiles and shakes his head.

“Ah it’s the Prince!” a voice says, belonging to a man who settles down beside him. Doyoon.

Mingyu groans inwardly as the man wraps an arm around Mingyu’s shoulders, “Prince, what are you doing here alone?”

Ah, Kim Doyoon. If Mingyu didn’t have a reputation to manage, he’d punch him. Doyoon is simply a troublemaker and an attention seeker. Mingyu hates his kind. He’s known for his crazy parties that go on all weekend.

“Waiting,” Mingyu says and Doyoon laughs, “I’ll wait with you! A prince must not be left alone, eh?”

Mingyu sighs and keeps his eyes on the phone. Dog on continues, unfazed by Mingyu’s ignorance towards him, “I’m hosting a party soon. You should come! I’ll hook you up with the fanciest beer Korea has to offer!”

Mingyu hums.

“There are going to be girls too! Many omegas as well,” he wriggles his brows, and Mingyu’s about to shoot him down when a voice reaches his ears.

“Yah, Kim Mingyu, come on,”

Mingyu looks up to see Wonwoo on a motorbike, waving Mingyu over. Mingyu’s face lights up immediately, and he runs over to the man, getting on behind him, “where did you get this?! I didn’t think you meant a motorbike when you said you’d arrange transport!” Mingyu chirps excitedly, and Wonwoo huffs, “It’s my brother’s. Isn’t it cool?” he revvs the engine and Mingyu laughs, “very!”

“Prince! Is that a yes or a no?” Doyoon asks. Mingyu smiles politely at him, “I will let you know!” he lies and puts on a helmet that Wonwoo hands him, “let’s go!”

And with that, the two set off.

“You know what’s funny?” Mingyu asks Wonwoo, wrapping his arms around his waist, “what?”

Mingyu giggles, “you’re riding this badass bike whilst wearing straight cut jeans and a white tee,”

Wonwoo laughs out loud, “hey, motorbikes aren’t just for leather jacket people, yknow?”

Mingyu grins, “you’re right. This is way cooler,”

Wonwoo laughs and they drive away to their destination.

—

“Okay, 1 hour of biking and 2 hours of hiking up here was worth it,” Wonwoo says, drinking some water as the two snap pictures of the beautiful scenery of Namsan mountain.

Mingyu chuckles, turning around, “we got many pictures today, huh?”

Wonwoo nods, stretching, “Yup. Can’t wait to get them printed,” he says and Mingyu smiles, “printed? Are you going to frame them?” he asks as he walks over to Wonwoo, flicking a leaf off his head.

“Oh, you bet. I’ll frame them at home,” he says, “it’s not often we get such good pictures, right?”

Mingyu smiles, “true,”

Wonwoo looks up at the man, “what about you? Will you frame them? Hang them at your place?”

Mingyu’s smile falters, “I…”

Where would he mount them? Back home…his walls aren’t empty at all. There’s no place for his pictures..

“I didn’t get anything worth framing yet,” Mingyu says, clicking through his photos. Wonwoo hums, standing up and walking over to the railing. Mingyu follows him, halting beside him.

“You can frame one and put it in our dorm room,” Wonwoo suggests, looking over the horizon. Mingyu stares at him, a little taken aback.

It’s as if Wonwoo knows what’s going on in Mingyu’s mind. But he doesn’t say anything; he doesn’t question it. He just lends him an ear or even a shoulder to lean on…

*click*

“Did you just take a photo of me?” Wonwoo asks, and Mingyu swallows, lowering his camera and looking at the picture. His heart races.

“You looked so ugly I had to take one,” Mingyu says, and Wonwoo scoffs, “idiot, who does that?"

Mingyu licks his lips and smiles.

“I’m an idiot for sure,” he mutters and Wonwoo frowns at him, confused. But he ends up smiling, “alright, let’s head down. I’m really hungry,”

Mingyu smiles and wraps an arm around Wonwoo as they begin their descent down the hill.

“I told you we should’ve brought snacks,” Mingyu scolds and Wonwoo shrugs, “extra luggage would’ve broken my back,” and Mingyu laughs, punching his arm, “you’re so dumb, Jeon Wonwoo,”

Wonwoo just smiles.

❀❀❀❀

As they approach the high school, Wonwoo turns to Mingyu, “Be cool, okay? You don’t have anything to be nervous about. There is no need to bring up the past. Just smile and nod,”

Mingyu huffs, noting the way Wonwoo had to soldier through the ‘past’ thing. He turns to Wonwoo and shoots him a confident smile as the car halts. Paparazzi rushes towards the car, but the bodyguards hold them at bay.

“I was a prince before you, I know the drill,” he winks and opens the car door, stepping out. Wonwoo bites back a smile and sighs as screams erupt outside.

“Third Prince! Look here!”

“This way, Prince Mingyu!”

Camera flashes go off, and Wonwoo exhales, having to mentally prepare himself to face those people outside. Mingyu was right. Wonwoo’s been doing this for a few years, but he’s been doing it since he was a child.

Wonwoo’s about to open the car door when it opens on its own, thanks to someone on the outside. Confused, Wonwoo steps out regardless, almost stumbling, but a hand steadies him, having reached out to grab his hand.

Wonwoo looks up at Mingyu, who had walked around the car to open the door for him. He’s holding onto Wonwoo’s hand pretty tightly, and though he lets go quickly and makes way for Wonwoo to walk away, Wonwoo’s hand feels feverish. He flexes it as he walks around the car and plasters a polite smile on his face to greet the principal of the school.

“Your royal highness, thank you so much for coming all the way here,” the principal, a middle-aged woman, greets them.

“And Prince Mingyu, you as well. We are thrilled to have you here,” she smiles. Mingyu’s attendance was added at the last minute, but the woman has adapted herself to the situation quickly. Mingyu smiles, “Thrilled to be here,”

They exchange a pleasant smile and she nods at them, “this way, please,”

As the trio walk away, the paparazzi begin to raise a ruckus, calling out to Mingyu, the Prince who’s returned from exile.

“Prince Mingyu!”

“Third Prince!”

“Will you take over the throne?”

“Any comments on that scandal?”

Mingyu pauses briefly, and so does Wonwoo upon hearing that. Wonwoo just turns around and calls out softly, “Mingyu,”

Mingyu’s eyes flicker over to him, expression softening when he sees Wonwoo’s smile.

“Come,” Wonwoo says and Mingyu nods, “yes,”

—

Over the years, Wonwoo had to force himself to get used to being a prince, a public figure and a celebrity. Even today, as he stood before this student body to give a speech before inaugurating their new library, Wonwoo was nervous. His legs were shaking, and so were his hands, but he managed to not let it show on his face how terrified he was of messing up and making headlines the next day.

But Mingyu…

Mingyu was born a prince. He was raised a prince, and it is evident in his confident stance and his charming demeanor. Mingyu owned the stage the moment he walked onto it. Mingyu didn’t have to prepare a speech. He immaculately addressed the student body and concluded his speech with a handsome smile. Mingyu never fails to leave Wonwoo in awe of him. That’s what a prince is supposed to be like. Not…like..

Wonwoo shakes his head and claps for Mingyu. Overall, re-launching the Third Prince, Kim Mingyu to the Korean public went well.

Quick and easy.

After taking a small tour of the new library, Mingyu and Wonwoo are to leave the premises. But a request holds them back.

“Your Royal Highness,” the principal calls Wonwoo, who had just gotten done taking pictures with the children.

“Yes?” Wonwoo smiles, leaning closer to her to be able to hear better.

“Do you mind addressing our 11th and 12th graders?” She asks as Mingyu scooches into the space beside Wonwoo, shoulders brushing.

“They would love a one-on-one session with the two of you. You are their role models after all,” she says and Wonwoo smiles. Mingyu cocks a brow, “me too? I’m sure they’re aware of the trouble I’ve gotten in in my youth,”

Wonwoo bites back a smile. That’s Mingyu’s charm. He can turn bitter memories into humor.

The principal, recalling the incident, just smiles, “it would mean the world to them if you spoke to them. I’m sure they know better than to question your credibility. You are both top graduates of SNU. Please do not doubt yourselves,” she says and Mingyu laughs. His fingers slide against Wonwoo’s, making the latter jump, “what say, Hyeongnim?”

Wonwoo takes a moment to think it over.

“But no reporters, please,” is what he says after a few moments and the Principal grins, “done!”

As the Principal leaves to organise the get together, Wonwoo turns to Mingyu, the two having some quite and privacy now that they’re in a library aisle alone.

“They’re kids. If they bring it up, I know you’ll play it cool but I want you to remember it’s a thing of the past. You were innocent,” Wonwoo whispers to Mingyu, and the man smiles.

He cocks a brow at Wonwoo, “I’m innocent? You’re the only one to believe that,” he says and Wonwoo purses his lips, “I can’t be the only one to believe that. You should believe it too. You did nothing wrong, Mingyu-yah,”

Mingyu’s smile falters, “Well, there are two people who know I’m innocent, then. Me and you. That’s it,” he lowers his gaze. As expected, that incident still haunts Mingyu.

Wonwoo sneaks a glance at the bodyguards, who are facing the other way, “It was just a horrible coincidence. Doyoon had it coming, and you got caught in the crossfire,”

Mingyu snickers, “you know that. Eomma and the Hyungs— they —“ he chokes towards the end, head low. Wonwoo swallows, taking a step closer to Mingyu, “they don’t matter, okay? There was no proof you did anything wrong—“

“But there was no proof I was innocent either! That’s the issue here, isn’t it? I’m guilty until proven innocent!” Mingyu says and Wonwoo exhales. He lowers his head, staring at Mingyu’s hand. Wonwoo reaches out to hold it, rubbing circles on his skin, “I’m sorry, Min-ah,” he begins, “for all that transpired. I’m sorry for—“ Wonwoo bites his lip, “— I’m sorry I was a bad friend and didn’t help you out. I’m sorry it drove you away from here, from us, from...me...."

Wonwoo’s lived six years with the guilt. He can’t hold his words back any longer, knowing Mingyu’s still haunted by what happened.

His grip on Mingyu’s fingers tightens and for a moment, it feels like they’re back in their bubble, where it’s just the two of them, just Mingyu and Wonwoo trying to resolve their argument and misunderstandings. Theyre friends again.

Mingyu inhales and Wonwoo gasps when he feels Mingyu hold his chin between his fingers and raise his head. When their eyes lock, Mingyu smiles, "It was not you that drove me away, Won. The circumstances were such. Plus, you’re the reason I came back, hm?”

Wonwoo gulps, cheeks warm and heart pounding.

Right. Mingyu came back to take Wonwoo away. Mingyu came to take Wonwoo because he…

Wonwoo swallows, “Back then,” he begins, “did you like—“

“Your royal highness, we’re ready!” The Principal walks into the aisle, prompting Wonwoo to jump away from Mingyu. He turns to her with a bright smile, “Let us go!” He says and walks over to her side with Mingyu in tow.

Perhaps he’ll save that question for later.

❀❀❀❀

When Mingyu’s eyes open, he realizes he feels warmer than he did while falling asleep earlier.

For a hot second, Mingyu busies himself with taking deep breaths, but his blocked nose continues to be a menace even after a relaxing nap.

He just snuggles further into his blanket and it’s this movement that makes him privy to the fact that there’s another person on his bed lying next to him

Overcoming the initial scare, Mingyu clears his hoarse throat, “Won?” he calls and Wonwoo hums in response, “yeah?”

Mingyu exhales. Of course it has to be Wonwoo.

Mingyu relaxes and doesn’t attempt to turn around. He doesn’t remember much from before he passed out — only that Wonwoo had to help him back from class. And that he made Mingyu some packet soup and covered him with a blanket. Did Wonwoo feed Mingyu the soup? It’s possible. The soup tastes horrible though — that much Mingyu remembers.

Mingyu doesn’t fall sick often but perhaps it’s the weather to blame. It’s beginning to snow already.

“Sorry for troubling you,” Mingyu says and Wonwoo hums, “I don’t mind,”

Mingyu pauses, “so you’re saying I did indeed trouble you,”

Wonwoo replies after a moment, “Yes,”

Mingyu scoffs, “yah, you—“ he cuts himself off by violently coughing and startling himself. Great. It’s an intense one this time.

“Hey, you should go back to your bed. What if you catch my cold?” Mingyu asks. Wonwoo exhales, replying after a moment. He must be playing games on his phone.

“You don’t want me here?” he asks and Mingyu gasps, “what? No! I just…I want you to be careful is all,” he voices and Wonwoo exhales. He turns around to look at Mingyu and the sight catches Mingyu off guard.

A red, runny nose adorns Wonwoo’s pale face and sunken eyes.

“Too late, I already caught it,” Wonwoo says and Mingyu snorts, “oh my god, I’m so sorry,” he laughs, wrapping his arms around Wonwoo and pulling him closer. He spreads the blanket over him as well. No wonder Wonwoo was warm. He was sick!

“Ngh, don’t pull me closer,” Wonwoo sniffles, the sickness evident in his voice.

“It’s not like you can get sicker, right?” Mingyu says, trapping the man in his arms. Wonwoo clicks his tongue, “idiot,” he curses but holds onto Mingyu, “hold me tight so I don’t roll off the bed,”

Mingyu chuckles, “okay,” he says, “did you have soup? Did you take medicine?” he asks and Wonwoo just nods, pulling the blanket over his shoulders, “cold,” he mutters and Mingyu coos, “come here,” he pulls them close till their chests collide.

Wonwoo looks up at Mingyu, his cheeks dusted red from the cold. He simply blinks and then shuffles around, turning in his side and letting his back press into Mingyu’s chest.

Mingyu’s not complaining. He simply wraps his arms around the man and holds him close, “after a nap, we can push our beds together and make a bigger bed,”

Wonwoo hums drowsily, “okay,” he says as Mingyu props his chin on Wonwoo’s shoulder. Wonwoo smells nice…

“I’m sorry we can’t go to Inwangsan today, with your friends. I know you really wanted to go and take some more pictures,” he says and Wonwoo exhales, “It’s okay, forget about it,”

Mingyu hums, “you sure? You’re not mad at me, right? Because of me you caught a cold,”

Wonwoo clicks his tongue, “I didn’t want to go in the first place, Min-ah. So I’m not really upset,”

Mingyu blinks, “what? Why?”

Wonwoo shrugs, “in case you haven’t noticed, I’m a couch potato. I don’t like going anywhere. My friends wouldn’t stop asking me about it so I said yes but I really didn’t want to go,”

Mingyu chuckles, “wait, then why did you agree to go with me? If you hate hiking so much,

Wonwoo hums, “I like going with you,” he replies simply, and it makes Mingyu’s heart pound.

“Oh…”

God, Mingyu’s feeling warmer.

“Then,” he clears his throat, “will you go to Inwangsan next week?”

Wonwoo pauses, “I’ll go if you go,” he says and Mingyu chuckles, “I’ll go. Just us two. Will you come?” he asks.

Without missing a beat, Wonwoo replies, “I’ll come,”

Mingyu just grins, burying his flushed face in Wonwoo’s neck. God, Jeon Wonwoo you…

“Then, it’s a date,” Mingyu mutters sleepily and Wonwoo drones, “okay,”

Mingyu shuts his eyes and lets Wonwoo’s warmth lull him to sleep.

❀❀❀❀

Wonwoo was wrong.

The scariest audience to address isn’t a group of diplomats and intellectuals. The scariest audience are soon-to-graduate high schoolers who are at a stage in life where nothing impresses them, not even the fact that Wonwoo’s the Prince of Korea, standing before them.

“If you guys have any questions, please feel free to ask us,” Wonwoo says after briefly introducing himself and Mingyu to them.

They stare at them with bored eyes, and Wonwoo purses his lips, glancing at Mingyu, eyes urging him to do something. Mingyu smiles at Wonwoo’s woes and clears his throat, “for a while, forget that we’re Royals. Think of this as a fansign with your favorite idol, hm? Talk to us like friends. We just want to get to know you,”

At that, lots of eyes begin to twinkle. Wonwoo smiles at Mingyu. The latter sure knows how to get their attention.

But despite that, there appears to be some nervousness evident in their faces. Wonwoo sneaks a glance at the Principal sitting next to them and realises.

“Ah, ma’am, could you give us some time alone, please?” Wonwoo asks. The principal, although surprised, doesn’t question it. She simply stands up and smiles, “kids, behave, okay?”

And with that, she walks away, closing the door behind her, leaving Mingyu and Wonwoo alone with the kids, who visibly relax now that their Principal is gone.

“So, any questions?” Mingyu asks and numerous hands shoot up.

Wonwoo and Mingyu laugh.

“First,” Wonwoo clears his throat, “we want to know if you guys liked the new library or not,”

The students nod in unison, some verbally agreeing.

“It’s an upgrade from the old library. There are more books as well,” a girl says and Wonwoo smiles.

“The books were hand-selected by Wonwoo, here,” Mingyu chimes in, “I heard he took his time in selecting the best books for you impressionable kids to enjoy,”

Wonwoo smiles, blushing. It’s true, he did. Mingyu must’ve heard it from Seungkwan.

The students clap and Wonwoo chuckles, “I hope you guys can make good use of these facilities, okay?”

The students smiles and some laugh, while most agree verbally.

Mingyu sighs, turning to Wonwoo, “don’t you think they’re more interested in asking us questions than the library?”

The kids laugh and so does Wonwoo. He shrugs and turns to the kids, “Let us answer, then. Who here has questions?”

Hands shoot up once again and Mingyu chuckles, pointing at a girl in the front, “yes?”

She lowers her hand and clears her throat, “are you two husbands?”

The student body bursts out laughing, and so does Mingyu while Wonwoo turns a bright shade of red.

“Hayeon-ah! Did you fail GK?” One girl teases as Hayeon remains clueless. Wonwoo shakes his head, “No. This is Third Prince Mingyu. I am married to the Second Prince Kim Jaekyung,” he clarifies.

She seems disappointed for some reason as her peers laugh. Wonwoo quickly picks out another boy from the crowd of raised arms, “yes?”

The boy smiles, “Your Royal highness, thank you for removing the old ID number system. It’s good if they don’t reflect our secondary genders and affect our social or professional relationships. I heard it was you who suggested it to the education minister. Thank you for it,”

Claps erupt and Wonwoo smiles, nodding, “Thank you. It’s important that we be recognised by our names and not our genders, right?”

The children agree and Wonwoo smiles.

This time, Mingyu and Wonwoo don’t have to pick out a person to address. A voice speaks up, “Your Royal Highness, where were you all these years?”

Ah. Of course.

Wonwoo glances at Mingyu, who doesn’t let the harmless question faze him.

“Hm, I was busy working. On myself, my work, my life. Been busy as a bee lately,” he says and the kids smile. Wonwoo’s proud of the way Mingyu handles such situations.

“Is it fun being a prince?" Someone pipes up and Mingyu laughs, “I get to live in a big palace, so that’s that,” he says and the children cheer and clap.

Mingyu turns to Wonwoo, “but Wonwoo here knows it can get lonely sometimes, right?”

Wonwoo’s smile falters, and he lowers his gaze. Well, that’s true.

“Why do you call him by his name?” Someone asks and Mingyu hums, “good question. Wonwoo, would you mind answering that?”

Wonwoo chuckles, “Mingyu and I were college roommates. We’re friends,” and a loud cheer erupts in the room at that revelation.

“And they were roommates!”

“Your royal highness, why didn't you marry the third prince if you were friends?!”

“What majors did you guys have?!”

Mingyu and Wonwoo feel overwhelmed by the questions and end up laughing out loud.

“Kids, kids, please,” Mingyu calms them down, “we’re here to talk about education. Not gossip,”

That alone brings down the energy of the room and the kids fall silent. Well, it had to happen.

To diffuse the situation, Wonwoo speaks up, “Do you guys here have any hobbies?”

“The weirdest one wins a prize!” Mingyu adds and answers are thrown at them once again.

“I dance!”

“I can knit!”

“I play video games!”

“I journal!”

“I collect stamps!”

“I have herbariums!”

“I hike!”

“I like to collect insects!”

“And the prize goes to the insect collector!” Mingyu cuts through the chaos and the hall erupts into laughter.

Wonwoo can’t help but join them. How long has it been since he allowed himself to laugh like this? How long has it been since someone made him laugh so much!

Wonwoo turns to Mingyu, who is laughing as well.

He likes watching Mingyu laugh. Mingyu laughs from his heart.

Soon, the noise dies down and someone speaks up, “What were your hobbies in college?”

Mingyu hums, “I loved taking photography and videography, actually,” he says and the hall oohs in unison, impressed.

“What kind of pictures did you take?”

“Yeah! Do you have any special memories related to videography?”

“Show us some pictures!”

Mingyu smiles, “Settle down, guys,” he says, “I’ll answer you guys one by one,” he says and clears his throat, “Well, I took pictures of the things around me, mostly. Buildings, trees, nature, people, et cetera,”

“Any special memories?” a girl asks and Mingyu smiles, “a few. I once went to Namsan mountain,” he says and Wonwoo tenses, “it was my first time going out to the mountain to take some pics, and I had a lot of fun there. Everything was very beautiful,”

Wonwoo relaxes.

“May I ask what compels you to take pictures of those things?”

Mingyu grins, “I take pictures of things that I find beautiful. If I see something beautiful—something I want to cherish, I take a photo of it. It’s the same reason why most of you take photos as well."

Wonwoo smiles. It’s true for Wonwoo as well. It may be a mundane object, but when Wonwoo finds it pretty, he takes a photo of it. It’s a different thing that he hasn’t touched the camera in years now. Where’s the time? And where's the inspiration?

“What is your favorite picture ever?” a girl asks and Mingyu smiles, “I took it on Namsan. I was at the top, standing by the railing and I couldn’t help myself from clicking a picture. It was truly a very…” Mingyu glances at Wonwoo, and it makes the omega slightly conscious, “…a very breathtaking view. I cannot forget it,” he says.

Wonwoo licks his lips, fidgety all of a sudden.

“What did you do with the picture?” One asks and Mingyu grins, “good question. I framed it, and it sits on my bedside table. Oh, and It’s my lock screen wallpaper,” and the hall erupts in a loud cheer, begging Mingyu to show them.

Mingyu just laughs, “pipe down, you guys” he begins, “it’s for my eyes only,” he winks and the kids let out a disappointed groan. Wonwoo chuckles.

Perhaps these kids weren’t as scary as he’d initially thought.

“Enough about us, hm?” Wonwoo speaks up, “let us talk about your future plans, eh?” And though the children moan frustratedly, it’s imperative they get down to it. That’s what the principal intended for anyway.

“Hey, hey, cheer up. Once this serious talk is over, we talk some more, eh? I’ll tell you guys some royal secrets, hm?” Mingyu offers, trying to lift their spirits. And spirits are indeed lifted by that promise and Wonwoo sighs gratefully.

He’s thankful that Mingyu’s here.

—

“You’re smiling,” Mingyu says, snapping Wonwoo out of his thoughts. Wonwoo turns to him, “It was nice talking to them. It was nice to hear that many of them are preparing for the civil service exams too,”

Mingyu hums as their car pulls into the palace, “the future is safe, eh?” And Wonwoo chuckles, "For the most part,”

Mingyu smiles, “It’s been a while since I was in public. It was quite nice to see them all,”

Wonwoo nods, “it was. You were…glowing, for the lack of a better word,” he says and Mingyu chuckles, “glowing? I’ll take it,”

Wonwoo grins.

this moment with Mingyu, such moments with Mingyu -- is Wonwoo selfish for not wanting to let them go? He wants this moment to freeze. He wants to stay here like this, in the car, in their bubble.

“Is…Namsan really your fondest memory?” Wonwoo finds himself asking as the car comes to a halt. It’s a complete diversion from the topic at hand but it feels like he can only truly talk to Mingyu within the confines of this car. Inside the house…probably not a good idea.

Mingyu turns to him and remains silent.

"Do you not believe me?" Mingyu asks and Wonwoo purses his lip, "I just-- why Namsan? You..." Wonwoo doesn't know what to say but it's like Mingyu understands him regardless.

Mingyu simply pulls out his phone and flashes him the screen, and within the screen, a photo.

Wonwoo’s eyes widen.

Mingyu’s door opens and he shoves his phone in his pocket, stepping out. Wonwoo recovers from his shock and steps out of the car as well, catching up to Mingyu, “I will escort the Prince to his room,” Wonwoo tells Mingyu’s Secretary, Hansol something, who rode in the car behind them with Seungkwan.

“Yes, your royal highness,” Hansol bows and Wonwoo speed walks towards the residential wing, eager to be out of earshot of any palace workers.

Once they reach Mingyu’s room and shut the doors, Wonwoo releases his breath, storming over to Mingyu, “are you crazy? Is that me on your lock screen?”

How can Mingyu have Wonwoo on his Lock Screen? What if someone sees? What if they find out? What if—

“It’s you, from Namsan. I told you, it was my fondest memory,” Mingyu replies as-a-matter-of-factly.

Wonwoo swallows nervously, heart racing, “Mingyu, you—“

“Earlier, you wanted to ask me if I liked you back then, right?” he asks in a softer tone and Wonwoo gasps. Mingyu…always knows what Wonwoo’s thinking. Wonwoo shuts his eyes and nods.

Mingyu chuckles airily, “I did,” he replies and the hair on Wonwoo’s arm raise, “and I still do. I will do everything in my power to take you away with me, Won,”

Wonwoo presses his hands to Mingyu’s mouth, his cheeks warm, “don’t…say any more…please,”

Oh god.

Oh god, oh god!

Mingyu’s liked him since then?

Wonwoo looks up, letting his arms fall to his side, “Why…why didn’t you say anything?” Wonwoo whispers.

Wonwoo doesn’t want his mind to stray into alternate realities. He doesn’t want to envision how different things could’ve been if it were…Mingyu that he…

Sorrow takes over Mingyu’s features and he lowers his gaze, jaw tightening, “I wanted to,” he says, “but an obstacle presented itself before me,”

Wonwoo swallows the knot in his throat, their eyes locked firmly.

They both know what Mingyu’s talking about.

“You’re Wonwoo, right? Mingyu’s roommate?” the man asks and Wonwoo blinks at him, confused, “and you are?”

The man smiles charmingly, extending a hand, “I’m Mingyu’s brother, Kim Jaekyung. Nice to meet you,”

Little did Wonwoo know back then that taking his hand would alter the course of his life drastically.

Chapter 4: Second Prince Kim Jaekyung

Chapter Text

“I’m worried,” Wonwoo says, kneeling by Mingyu’s bed, palm on his forehead.

Mingyu swallows thickly, sliding back into his blanket, “don’t be. You’re gonna be late for your classes. You should go, Won,” Mingyu says and Wonwoo sighs.

Mingyu’s cold hasn’t gotten any better. It’s been a week now. He’s burning up.

“Just call me if you need anything, okay?” Wonwoo says, patting Mingyu’s arm. The latter just groans, "Sap."Go now,” and Wonwoo smiles.

He glances at the window. It’s snowing. Thankfully, they have a heater in the room or Mingyu’s condition would’ve been much worse.

“I’ll see you in a few hours, hm?” Wonwoo says and Mingyu peeks out of the blanket, brows raised, “okay,”

Wonwoo purses his lips, “just call me if you need anything,”

Mingyu rolls his eyes, “God, you worry so much,” he groans and Wonwoo chuckles, “If I don’t then who will, hm?”

Mingyu falls silent at that, blinking at Wonwoo, as if processing those words.

Wonwoo bites his lip. Maybe he shouldn’t have said that. He just smiles at Mingyu and steps his foot out when the latter calls him, “thank you for that,”

Wonwoo lets the moment soak and smiles, “I’ll see you,”

And with that, he walks out of their dorm room.

Well, Wonwoo’s never bunked classes before. Call him conventional or a wimp, but he’s never once bunked any classes in his life.

But today, he felt compelled to.

When he stepped out of their hostel, instead of walking to his class, his feet took him the other way to the convenience store. He spent a good one hour there, gathering things for Mingyu, things he likes — ramen, soup, biscuits— anything to help Mingyu cope with his persistent cold.

Wonwoo can’t bring himself to ignore Mingyu and go on with his day. Not when he’s sick.

By the time Wonwoo got back to the hostel, he was holding two covers — one with medicines and the other with snacks.

He wonders if Mingyu will appreciate Wonwoo surprising him like this. Will he like the snacks he bought? Are the donuts too much? Wonwoo bought everything he could land his eyes on, and afford.

Wonwoo pushes open the door and—

The door doesn’t budge.

That’s weird.

Wonwoo twists the knob but the door doesn’t push open. Did Mingyu lock the door? They never do it except at night. What’s going on?

“Mingyu? Are you there?” Wonwoo knocks, worried when he hears muffling sounds inside. Is something wrong?

“Won?” Mingyu calls from inside and Wonwoo hears clothes rustling and sighs. Okay, Mingyu’s fine.

“Hey, open up. I bought you something to eat,” he says as he hears Mingyu approach the door. When the door opens, Wonwoo smiles upon seeing Mingyu standing. He’s about to walk in when Mingyu blocks his path, “I…I thought you had classes,” he says and Wonwoo frowns. What’s wrong?

“I uh, bunked. I was worried about you,” Wonwoo says, frowning at Mingyu who won’t open the door all the way. His face is red and his hair, disheveled. And…why is he in his boxers? What happened to his pants?

“Won, this…you came at a bad time,” Mingyu exhales and it’s only now that Wonwoo picks up on a distinct smell — he notices the way Mingyu’s breathing and the sweat on his brow. His lips are swollen as well.

Wonwoo’s brain begins to connect the dots and he takes a step back, “Oh, are you—“

Movement behind Mingyu confirms Wonwoo’s suspicions. There’s a person in there…

Wonwoo’s ears begin to ring and his throat runs dry, “oh, you— you’re—“

Mingyu purses his lips, “Yeah, I…someone’s here,”

Wonwoo pieces it all together. Mingyu didn’t have a cold.

Mingyu’s in heat.

Wonwoo scoffs, embarrassed by his actions. He lowers his gaze, unable to meet Mingyu’s eyes. He interrupted Mingyu and…whoever that is. An omega, probably.

“Here uh,” Wonwoo hands Mingyu the two polythene bags, “there’s something for you guys to eat when you, y’know, get tired and um—“

“Won, sorry I didn’t tell you. I just—“

“No I get it,” Wonwoo smiles. He doesn’t know why he feels so…so…off, “there are some donuts there— some have sprinkles, others don’t. I didnt know which ones you’d like so— uh, anyway, enjoy!” he says and turns around, “I’ll just uh, hang out outside,” and with that, he just walks away.

Mingyu calls out to him but Wonwoo ignores him and speed walks down the hallway.

He feels the need to get out of there as soon as possible.

Of all the places Wonwoo could’ve gone, he just ended up sitting on the bench across from his dorm building.

In his state of mind, he couldn’t think of going far. He decided to sit down here on this chilly evening and wait it out. Wait it out for Mingyu and— whoever that is— to finish…canoodling, or whatever.

State of mind?

What state of mind?

Mingyu’s the one in heat, not Wonwoo. What state of mind is Wonwoo thinking of?

This was bound to happen. Mingyu getting his heat. When Wonwoo got his heat, he went back home but Mingyu can’t. He doesn’t want to go home so..where else could he…relieve himself?

Wonwoo exhales, kicking the rocks by his feet.

Mingyu didn’t tell Wonwoo. Wonwoo couldn’t even smell his heat. Is it because he’s recessive? Was Mingyu using scent blockers? It’s likely… he probably didn’t want to inconvenience Wonwoo. That’s why, when Wonwoo was in class, he would…call someone over and…

Wonwoo shakes his head. He feels silly for not realising, and for making Mingyu think he was inconveniencing him. If anything, Wonwoo was the inconsiderate one — he barged in on them mid-sex and..

Wonwoo sighs. It’s good Mingyu called over an Omega to help him. A real omega. Someone experienced and…

God, why does it bother Wonwoo so much?!

Maybe…he should go home for a few days, to give Mingyu some privacy.

“It’s cold…” Wonwoo murmurs under his breath, shoving his hands in his coat pocket.

He tries not to look at the window of their room. He doesn’t want to catch something he won’t like.

“Hey,” a voice says, drawing Wonwoo’s attention off the window. Wonwoo’s eyes land on a man, young and tall, a charming smile adorning his face. Wonwoo’s rendered silent by his attractiveness. His cheeks feel warm at the mere sight of him.

“Hi,” Wonwoo chokes out and the man scans his surroundings, “do you know Kim Mingyu? I’m here to deliver something for him,”

Oh.

Wonwoo stands up, “Ah, I know him. I’m his…” he halts. The man frowns, “yes?”

Wonwoo shakes his head and brings his attention back to the handsome man, “I can deliver whatever it is to Mingyu,”

The man cocks a brow, smirking, “Ah, you’re Wonwoo, right? Mingyu’s roommate?” the man asks and Wonwoo blinks at him, confused, “and you are?”

The man smiles charmingly, extending a hand, “I’m Mingyu’s brother, Kim Jaekyung. Nice to meet you,”

Wonwoo’s brain freezes for a moment. In a daze, he takes the man’s hand and shakes it. When his hand returns to his side, he finally understands who this person is.

“Ah, your royal highness,” Wonwoo bows to the Second Prince of Korea, heir to the Royal throne. The next King of their country. No wonder he looked familiar. Wonwoo’s seen him in newspapers here and there — not to mention the striking similarities with Mingyu. They really are brothers — tall and wide. Handsomeness runs in the family he supposes.

Jaekyung laughs and Wonwoo straightens, “You don’t have to call me that,” he says. Wonwoo swallows. Just like Mingyu…

“Taehyung has mentioned you to me a couple of times. It’s nice to put a face to all the stories I’ve heard about you,” Jaekyung says and Wonwoo flushes. Argh! What did Taehyung tell him!

“It’s nice to make your acquaintance as well, Your Royal Highness,” Wonwoo clears his throat. God, why is he so nervous? Jaekyung makes him nervous.

Jaekyung smiles, “ah, by the way, this is heat medication,” he says, showing Wonwoo a paper bag, “and with you out here, I’m assuming he’s already in heat,”

Wonwoo bites his lips, “Yes,”

Jaekyung exhales and stretches, “it’s cold out here. Do you mind if we sit in my car?”

Wonwoo blinks at the man and finds the car he’s referring to parked in the back. Wonwoo hesitates.

“Come on, it’ll be warmer inside,” Jaekyung smiles, “you’re shaking,” he says, setting Wonwoo’s collar straight. Wonwoo licks his lips, nodding along, “okay,”

Jaekyung grins and Wonwoo follows him to the car.

“I assume things have changed since I was in University,” Jaekyung says as Wonwoo gets comfortable in the car. He’s never sat in a Rolls Royce before. It does have a rather royal feel to it. Most importantly, he’s warm.

“What do you mean?” Wonwoo asks and Jaekyung smiles, “last I remember, omegas and alphas weren’t allowed to be roommates,”

Ah.

“How did you know I’m an omega?” Wonwoo asks, dumbfounded. Jaekyung smiles, “I mean, it’s kind of obvious, isn’t it? You’re very pretty. Plus, you smell heavenly,”

Wonwoo flushes a deep red. When the Second Prince of Korea says you smell heavenly, it’s bound to do things to your weak heart.

Also, Wonwoo didn’t know he even had a scent. Mingyu’s never mentioned it either. Was he able to smell Wonwoo? Jaekyung is able to..

“Sorry, that must’ve sounded creepy,” the Prince quickly corrects himself and Wonwoo chuckles, “It’s okay,”

Jaekyung sighs, relieved, “so, how did you come to room with Mingyu?”

Wonwoo licks his lips, “I think it was an administrative mishap. Mingyu…didn’t realize I was an omega and we continued rooming together. Once we did realise, we didn’t bother changing,”

Jaekyung hums, “I see. You like being roommates with him, then?” And Wonwoo smiles, “I guess so,”

Jaekyung grins.

“I should probably hand him the heat medication, huh?” Jaekyung says and Wonwoo hums, “yeah,”

He’d almost forgotten.

“Say, Wonwoo, how about a cup of—“

“Is that Mingyu?” Wonwoo asks when a man runs out of the building, looking around. Jaekyung narrows his eyes and scoffs, “it is,”

Wonwoo steps out of the car and Mingyu spots him. He runs over to him, catching his breath when he halts.

“Yah, what are you doing out here?” Wonwoo asks as Mingyu straightens, “I..”

However, Mingyu falls silent when Jaekyung steps out of the car as well. His eyes widen, “Hyung, what are you doing here?”

Jaekyung smiles and walks over to Mingyu, handing him a paper bag, “Mom saw on the calendar that your heat was soon. She asked me to deliver this to you,”

“Thank you,” Mingyu snatches the bag from his hand, “you should leave now,”

Wonwoo sighs. He’ll reprimand Mingyu later for talking to his Hyung this way.

Jaekyung smiles, turning to Wonwoo, “it was a pleasure meeting you, Wonwoo,” he extends his hand. Wonwoo smiles, shaking his hand, only for it to be pulled and a kiss pressed to the back. Wonwoo flushes red as Jaekyung’s lips brush against his knuckles.

The Prince straightens and grins, turning to Mingyu, “See you, little brother,” he ruffles his hair, leaning closer to the man who has frozen in place.

Wonwoo doesn’t quite catch what Jaekyung whispers in Mingyu’s ear.

Jaekyung pats Mingyu on his shoulder and walks back to his car, “Hope to see you again, Wonwoo-ssi,” he says and Wonwoo smiles, “you too, Jaekyung-ssi,”

And with that, Jaekyung gets into the car and drives away, leaving Mingyu and Wonwoo out here in the cold.

Wonwoo watches Jaekyung’s car and then turns to Mingyu, who’s gone silent. Wonwoo sighs, “hey—“ but his words are cut short by a tight hug. Mingyu hugs hums tightly, and though Wonwoo doesn’t know what prompted this, he hugs him back. It feels nice. It feels like it’s been ages.

“Has your heat subsided?” Wonwoo asks.

Mingyu nods.

“Is that person gone?”

Mingyu nods.

Wonwoo chuckles and pulls away, “can I come back to my room now?”

Mingyu nods, something so sorrowful about his eyes. Wonwoo wonders if Mingyu feels and for it all.

Wonwoo cups his cheeks, “hey, don’t worry about it, okay?”

Mingyu swallows the knot in his throat, “I’m hungry”

Wonwoo giggles.

“I’ll make you ramen. Let’s go,”

❀❀❀❀

“Mingyu—“

Nothing has changed in years because yet again, their conversation comes to an abrupt halt when Jaekyung walks into Mingyu’s room.

Wonwoo steps away from Mingyu before Jaekyung can process the distance between them.

“Oh, you’re here too?” Jae asks Wonwoo, who simply smiles, “Just here to invite him to dinner,” he says as Jae walks over to him, wrapping an arm around his waist while his eyes remain glued to Mingyu’s face, as if waiting for a reaction.

“He doesn’t need an invitation for that,” Jaekyung says and Mingyu clenches his jaw, “What are you doing here, Hyung?”

Jae scoffs, “Look at you, acting like this place belongs to you. Might I remind you that you haven’t been here in six years?”

Wonwoo exhales. When it comes to Mingyu and Jaekyung, he really doesn’t know what to do.

“What do you want, Hyung?” Mingyu asks and Jae smiles, “Heard good reviews about the event. Came to check up on you. Looks like you’ve still got the princely charm, eh? Trying to woo public favor onto your side?” he laughs.

Wonwoo swallows. Without Mingyu here, Jaekyung is the successor to the throne. Mingyu’s return however threatens that since the Law of Primogeniture isn’t practiced here. All the Alpha sons have an equal claim to the throne.

Mingyu smirks, “you know I’m not interested in the throne, Hyung,” he says, “but if it comes down to it, I might want to try my hand at it. Once or twice,” he smiles almost sinisterly, a look Wonwoo has never seen on his face.

Jaekyung’s smile falters, “don’t try to steal other people’s things, Mingyu,” he warns.

Wonwoo needs to diffuse the situation.

“Jae, I think we should—“

“A little rich coming from you, eh, Hyung,” Mingyu remarks. Silence befalls as Mingyu and Jaekyung lock eyes. Everyone in this room understands the true intention of Mingyu’s words.

Wonwoo doesn’t dare to raise his gaze. He can only pray that Jaekyung lets this go. And thankfully, he does.

He just smirks, “have the dinner brought to your room,” he tells Mingyu and tugs Wonwoo along, denying Wonwoo the opportunity to take a look at Mingyu one last time.

As they leave, Wonwoo’s heart thumps loudly in his chest.

Apart from Taehyung, no one questioned Mingyu’s absence at the dining table.

There was nothing much to converse about, either. Taehyung told them about all that he got done today, and the Queen just hummed in response, uninterested as usual. Wonwoo made sure to let Taehyung know that he was listening, even if his brother and mother weren’t. Wonwoo likes to think it made all the difference to Taehyung because his eyes lit up at the acknowledgment. The wedding is in a few days and Wonwoo wants to keep Taehyung’s spirits up at all costs.

Once Wonwoo and Jaekyung retire to their room, Jaekyung speaks up, “Got the photos from today’s event. Looks like it was a success,”

Wonwoo smiles as he changes into his pajamas.

“Yeah, Mingyu was great,” Wonwoo says, pulling up his shorts. Jaekyung hums, walking over to Wonwoo and wrapping his arms around him.

Wonwoo tenses, “hey,” he whispers as Jaekyung kisses his neck, pulling his shirt down and letting it drop to the floor. Goosebumps erupt on Wonwoo’s body as Jae’s lips trace his shoulders and back.

Jae’s fingers slide into his shorts and Wonwoo gasps, “Jae—“

“Let’s go to the Doctor soon,” Jaekyung says, “I want to know why we don’t have a baby yet. We've been trying and yet...”

Wonwoo freezes as Jae continues to kiss his skin, his hands resting on Wonwoo’s abdomen, “you’d make a good father, love,”

Wonwoo shivers as Jae’s nose grazes the base of his neck. His hands massage Wonwoo’s waist, making Wonwoo let out a shaky sigh.

“Why don’t we..mate, first?” Wonwoo proposes, breathless from all the ministrations on his body. Jae pauses, “mate? Isn’t it too early for that?”

Wonwoo purses his lips and turns around, “it’s been 6 years, Jae. I don’t know what to say when people ask me, or when Eommonim asks me,”

Jae swallows, “mating is such a big step. Shouldn’t we give it more thought?”

Disappointment washes over Wonwoo.

But we’re married. Does that mean nothing to you?

“Just…promise me you’ll think about it,” Wonwoo exhales as he pulls away from Jaekyung, turning to go lie on the bed. Should he just go back to his room today as well? He doesn’t want to spend the night here.

“Mating aside, we should first focus on making a baby, hm?” Jaekyung says and Wonwoo sighs, exhausted. He doesn’t reply and lets his eyes fall shut.

Suddenly, he feels himself being flipped over. Jaekyung watches him with dark eyes and Wonwoo exhales.

“Who said you could sleep tonight?” Jaekyung asks, pulling Wonwoo’s shorts down and parting his legs. Wonwoo purses his lips and braces himself as Jaekyung enters him slowly.

Jaekyung leans forward to kiss Wonwoo’s lips, “always so good, love,” he says as he begins to move and Wonwoo moans unwillingly. He wraps his arms around Jaekyung, careful to not be too loud.

Mingyu’s 2 doors down.

❀❀❀❀

Sometimes Wonwoo forgets that Mingyu is a prince. He’s become totally desensitized to that man’s lineage and title. He’s only reminded by the rare moments when Mingyu’s pulled away to partake in events pertaining to the Royal family and sometimes the government. This time, it’s the inauguration of the National games.

Wonwoo saw Mingyu on TV earlier. He looked…different. He was dressed in formals, hair slicked back and a perpetual smile on his face. Not all of it felt genuine, in all honesty. Nonetheless, he looked exceedingly handsome. Very alpha-like.

He didn’t do much apart from stand behind his two brothers. Taehyung looked graceful as always. He’s someone who could wear the most ridiculous outfit and still look good in it. Wonwoo envies that quality.

Jaekyung however looked ....ridiculously handsome. Wonwoo’s only ever seen him once in person, with his hair slicked back and that suit…

Wonwoo had underestimated the royal genes. They’ve bloomed quite well with the three children.

Wonwoo sighs. He’s been trying to study, but he keeps stealing glances out the window. Mingyu’s been gone two days and is soon to return.

Any time now.

Should Wonwoo tell him he saw him on TV? Should he bring it up at all?

As more questions bubble up in his mind, Wonwoo sees a car pull up in front of the dorm building. A black Rolls Royce.

Wonwoo springs to his feet, peeking out the window. Mingyu steps out of the car and heads towards the building. He’s back!

Wonwoo’s about to look away when a second figure steps out of the car and much to his surprise, it looks up, right at him. Wonwoo’s cheeks flush and he gasps as Jaekyung smiles at him, as if he knew Wonwoo were here. He smiles at Wonwoo, making the younger man gulp nervously. Should Wonwoo wave? Smile back?

Jaekyung then gestures to Wonwoo to come down. Wonwoo hesitates for a moment but his feet move on their own volition and Wonwoo’s out the door after grabbing a coat.

On his way down the stairs, he runs into Mingyu.

Mingyu takes a moment to process Wonwoo’s presence. But when he does, he climbs up the stairs and pulls him in for a tight hug.

Wonwoo chuckles, hugging him back, “are you off duty, now?” he asks and Mingyu just squeezes him, “I’m home, darling,”

Wonwoo laughs, patting his back, “tired?” he asks and Mingyu pulls back, nodding. His hair is down, so are his spirits. Being a public figure must be draining.

“Let’s go. I want to eat Ramyeon,” Mingyu says, tugging Wonwoo up the stairs but the latter resists, “actually, I—“

Mingyu frowns, “yeah?”

“I uh, I’m going down to meet your brother,” he says and Mingyu’s eyes widen, “what? He-he’s not here—“

“I saw him, Min-ah,” Wonwoo smiles and Mingyu gulps, lowering his gaze, “Ah, I see,”

Wonwoo licks his lips, “tell you what. I’ll uh, greet him and come back. You get the ramyeon ready, hm?”

Mingyu smiles, like he did on TV earlier. Wonwoo tries to ignore the way it bothers him.

“Okay, come back soon,” he says and Wonwoo smiles, “see you!”

As Wonwoo heads down to the lobby, he sets his hair and checks his breath — wait why is he checking his breath?!

He shakes his head and walks out into the cold, smiling when Jaekyung spots him and smiles, leaning against the car.

“Hello,” Wonwoo bows and Jaekyung smiles, “there’s no need to be so formal,” he straightens, “I just came to greet my little brother’s dearest friend,”

Wonwoo smiles, “well, hello, I guess?”

Jaekyung laughs, "You're adorable,” he says and doesn’t even give Wonwoo a chance to process those words. He adds, “how about coffee? I know a good cafe two blocks away,”

Wonwoo raises his brows.

Coffee? With the prince? Wonwoo doesn’t want to assume but….

Look, he can’t deny that there was a spark the first time they met. And that there’s a spark now. Would it be too bad to pursue it?

“Sure,” Wonwoo smiles and Jaekyung grins, “great. Hop in,”

Wonwoo chuckles and is about to open the car door when Jaekyung beats him to it, opening it for him instead. Pleasantly surprised, Wonwoo just gets in and lets Jaekyung close the door for him.

Wonwoo’s cheeks feel warm as he watches Jaekyung run around the car and slide into the driver's seat.

When their eyes meet, Wonwoo smiles.

“Let me get that for you,” Jaekyung says, leaning in and grabbing the seatbelt strap to pull it over Wonwoo and plug it in, whilst Wonwoo tries his best not to stare at the God-like features of this man up close.

“Done,” Jaekyung smiles, looking up at Wonwoo, “your cheeks are red, Wonwoo-ssi,” he says and Wonwoo swallows, looking away.

As the car engine starts, Wonwoo tries his best to calm his heart.

When they step out onto the street, Wonwoo gravitates to Jaekyung’s side, “aren’t you afraid you will be recognised?” Wonwoo whispers under his breath as they walk into the cafe.

Jaekyung smirks, “Not as much as Taehyung and Mingyu do. I’ve been in the States for a long time now so the people have, let’s say, forgotten me,” he chuckles.

Wonwoo hums.

“But it doesn’t upset me. I just have to work harder to become a worthy leader in the future, eh?” Jaekyung says and Wonwoo grins.

Well, he’s not wrong.

“Do you wish to be King, one day?” Wonwoo asks as they take their seats by the wall. Mingyu’s never shown any real interest in being King, or even a Prince for that matter. From what Wonwoo’s picked up, Mingyu doesn’t seem to have a good relationship with the Queen, his Mother. Wonwoo’s hung out with Mingyu and Taehyung but their bond seems superficial as well, though not disingenuous. However, Wonwoo doesn’t know much about Jaekyung and Mingyu’s relationship.

Jaekyung hums, “I do,” he admits, “perhaps I could bring about real change in this country,”

Wonwoo raises his brows, “do you then think the Queen hasn’t been able to bring about that change?”

Jaekyung huffs, “you’re a smart one,” and Wonwoo smiles. Jaekyung purses his lips, “Eomma has done very well but she isn’t as adaptive as a leader should be. Nevertheless, I will continue to support her in all ways possible and hope I can bring about change, however indirectly,”

Wonwoo smiles.

“You could start by changing the identification system used in educational institutions,” Wonwoo says and Jaekyung cocks a brow, “the what?”

Wonwoo swallows. It’s not his place to say anything but…

“ID or Registration number in educational institutions in our country are a string of numbers, attached to the end of which is one of three letters — A, B and O. Alpha, Beta and Omega,” Wonwoo lowers his gaze, “there are numerous instances of bias. Examiners are known to deliberately pass or fail students based on their ID numbers. That’s why I think it’s best we do away with that system,”

When he looks up, he finds Jaekyung nodding intently, “thanks for letting me know. It certainly requires our attention,”

Wonwoo smiles, happy that he was able to contribute in some way.

They take a moment to place their orders.

“So,” Jaekyung speaks up, “is it safe to assume you volunteer for the cause of the needy?”

Wonwoo smiles, shaking his head, “No. I don’t think I’m in any place to help others. Maybe in the future, when I’m earning, I would like to donate or help out in any way I can,”

Jaekyung hums, “that’s nice,”

Wonwoo smiles and clears his throat.

“I saw you on TV today,” he blurts and Jaekyung grins, “and?” he leans closer to Wonwoo, “what did you think of it?”

Wonwoo bites his lips, “you looked really cool,”

Jaekyung laughs.

“Well, had I known you were tuning in, I would’ve put more effort into dressing up,” he says and Wonwoo licks his lips. Jaekyung is a smooth talker.

“You looked handsome regardless,” Wonwoo says and Jaekyung bites his lip, laughing softly.

“You know, I had to beg Mingyu to tell me about you. He wouldn’t even set us up,” Jaekyung sighs and Wonwoo blinks, ‘set us up? Number?’

His heart begins to race, and he lowers his gaze, “Your Royal Highness, you shouldn’t speak like that. I might get the idea that you’re…interested in me,”

Wonwoo doesn’t dare to look up at the man sitting across from him. He stares at his fidgety hands resting on the table, heart racing.

And then, a hand approaches his, fingers tapping his. Wonwoo looks up as the fingers slide into the spaces between his, “would that be so bad?” Jaekyung asks, a soft smile gracing his handsome features.

Wonwoo swallows thickly.

“No. It wouldn’t be so bad,” he can’t help but grin.

Wonwoo didn’t mean to get carried away but he spent the next four hours talking to Jaekyung, talking about anything and everything as they took a long drive in his car.

When Jaekyung dropped him back home with the promise of seeing him again soon, Wonwoo ran up to his dorm room to let Mingyu know.

However, when he opens the door, he finds Mingyu asleep and an unopened packet of Ramyeon on the table.

❀❀❀❀

Wonwoo startles when he hears a knock on his door. He’s not expecting anyone just yet, but he has an idea of who it could be.

“Come in,” he says, sitting by his vanity, trying to fix some of his pimples using a concealer. Perhaps he should do some eye makeup. Unfortunately, Wonwoo has no idea where to begin.

“You really need a mirror in here, Won,” Mingyu speaks up, halting behind Wonwoo. Wonwoo just smiles, “Nah, I’m good,” he says, dabbing the concealer into place, using his phone camera as a mirror.

Mingyu exhalesna pulls a seat to sit down beside Wonwoo.

“What do you need?” Wonwoo asks, rummaging through his items. Mingyu hums, “a front row seat to you getting all dolled up,”

Wonwoo huffs, “flattery doesn’t work on me. Not anymore,” he trails off towards the end as he struggles to pick what he wants to do. Should he leave it be?

“I can do a quick eyeshadow look for you,” Mingyu offers and Wonwoo gasps, eyes wide, “what?”

Mingyu smiles cheekily, grabbing the unused eyeshadow palette from Wonwoo’s vanity.

“Come here,” he gestures and Wonwoo scooches his chair closer to Mingyu’s, leaning forward with one eye shut. Mingyu smiles as he rubs his finger in the eyeshadow pan, picking up some light brown pigment.

Mingyu leans closer and gently pats the pigment on the outer corner of Wonwoo’s eye, slowly blending it across the lid with a clean finger, whilst Wonwoo watches the man up close.

Mingyu smells good. Really good. Wonwoo can tell it’s a mixture of his cologne and his scent. As roommates, they became desensitized to each other’s scents but now…Wonwoo can smell him and Mingyu smells wonderful.

“Close your other eye,” Mingyu instructs softly and Wonwoo does as he’s told.

Even up close, there are no blemishes on Mingyu’s face. It’s squeaky clean as always. It looks really soft as well. Like glass. So shiny…

“Done,” Mingyu smiles, blending out the eyeshadow with his thumb. Wonwoo nods, “thanks,” he says as Mingyu’s thumb slips down to his cheek. Their eyes lock briefly and Wonwoo pulls away and clears his throat.

Mingyu leans back onto his chair as Wonwoo checks himself in the front camera. He’s impressed and turns to Mingyu with a smile, but Mingyu’s face has fallen, his eyes glued to a place on Wonwoo’s neck.

“You should cover that up as well,” Mingyu says, lowering his gaze and Wonwoo frowns, checking himself in the camera. He gasps— a hickey…

“Mingyu, this—“ Wonwoo tries to explain himself but…he doesn’t have to…

The hickey is from his husband and Mingyu…is just….

Mingyu smiles with his lips, his eyes showing no real emotion, “a little bit of concealer should do,” he says, grabbing the concealer from the vanity and dabbing some product onto the hickey.

Wonwoo gasps softly when Mingyu’s finger lands on his neck, setting the product in place. Mingyu’s eyes however remained trained on Wonwoo’s face, making the latter conscious, urging him to avert his gaze.

Wonwoo feels…guilty, for some reason. He feels exposed and vulnerable and…ashamed. Is it because it’s Mingyu? Because Mingyu likes him?

“Let me dry it,” Mingyu says and without a warning, leans in and blows on that area of Wonwoo’s neck, making the hair on his body raise. Wonwoo grabs Mingyu’s collar, fisting it as Mingyu’s hot breath fans his bare neck, dangerously close to his scent glands.

“Mingyu…” he breathes out, hands trying to push Mingyu away but with how close Mingyu is, his scent invading Wonwoo’s senses, his breath on his neck — Wonwoo’s hands prove weak.

“You smell good,” Mingyu says, lips dangerously close to his skin, “you’ve always smelled good,”

Wonwoo screws his eyes shut and thankfully, after what feels like an eternity, Mingyu pulls away.

Wonwoo takes deep breaths, slowly opening his eyes to see Mingyu smiling at him, his eyes dark. It makes Wonwoo gulp and he straightens, letting go of Mingyu’s shirt, “sorry it’s…wrinkled,” he says, standing up and Mingyu just smiles in response, “I don’t mind if it’s from you,” he says and Wonwoo bites his lip.

“We should go. We’re getting late,” he says, trying to contain his blush and calm his galloping heart.

“Agreed,” Mingyu says, wiping his hands on a towel and following Wonwoo out the door.

Neither dare to speak as they walk down the hallway.

They’re going to have to carry this awkwardness to the party.

Wonwoo sighs, dusting his suit and making sure he has everything he needs. And just then, a voice calls out to them, making the duo turn.

“Wait up,” Jaekyung calls and Wonwoo turns to see the man walking over to them, dressed sharply in a suit. Wonwoo frowns, “Wha—“

“I’m coming to the fundraiser with you,” he says and Wonwoo’s eyes widen, “what?”

Jaekyung smiles and slips into the space between Mingyu and Wonwoo, wrapping an arm around Wonwoo’s waist, “they’ll be expecting the both of us. Plus, it’s time I make some time out of my busy schedule and attend these events, however meaningless they may be. You’re my husband after all,” he says and Wonwoo’s eyes momentarily flicker onto Mingyu before landing on Jaekyung, “that’s…that’s nice, Hyung. Thank you for joining us,” he says, locking his arm with Jaekyung, making the latter smile.

Jae turns to Mingyu, “you can sit this one out, Mingyu,” he instructs, “I’ll escort my husband to the party,”

Wonwoo tenses and Mingyu just huffs, “I’m invited to the Party. I’m not a mere escort,”

Jae huffs, “whatever. Try not to embarrass us there,”

“Jae!” Wonwoo scolds but Mingyu just scoffs, “Yeah, right,” he lowers his gaze.

Jae's eyes flicker down to Mingyu's undershirt, "Atleast iron out the wrinkles," Jae grumbles.

Mingyu just huffs and walks ahead of them.

Wonwoo sighs as Jaekyung turns to him and kisses his cheek.

“Let’s go, love,” Jae says and Wonwoo exhales.

It’s going to be a long night.

Chapter 5: Centre of Excellence

Chapter Text

As Wonwoo’s about to step into the car, his head turns to the car behind him. He watches Mingyu get in, and though their eyes meet only briefly, Wonwoo’s cheeks flush intensely as he recalls what transpired in that room.

Wonwoo settles down in his seat, and the door is shut, allowing the car to finally move.

Wonwoo should’ve stopped Mingyu. He should’ve resisted harder because Wonwoo is married. He…must not entertain such advances from Mingyu.

It’s not right.

“Love?” Jaekyung calls, and Wonwoo snaps out of his trance, "Yes?"

Jaekyung points at Wonwoo’s shoes and asks, "Can we exchange our shoes? There’s some dirt on mine,”

Wonwoo frowns, “oh..right,” He quickly shimmies off his shoes and hands them over to Jaekyung, picking his up on the way back to his feet. He makes sure to dust them slightly before slipping into them quite easily. As expected, they’re a little big for Wonwoo. That’s alright.

“Thank you for arranging this event, Love,” Jaekyung says, holding Wonwoo’s hand. "Sorry, I haven’t been of much help. The office has kept me occupied,” he says, kissing the back of his hand. Wonwoo smiles.

“I understand. I’m grateful you decided to join us today,” he says and Jaekyung grins, “You seem thrilled,”

Wonwoo smiles, “I am. It isn’t just a fundraiser. It’s also the inauguration of the Centre of Excellence for Mental Health—“

“Is it alright if I give a speech?” Jaekyung cuts him off halfway, and Wonwoo purses his lips, “oh, why not? That would be lovely!”

“Excited,” he says, “it’s been a while since we’ve made a public appearance together. I forgot how fun this is,”

Wonwoo’s heart twists. He lowers his gaze and smiles.

“It is,”

❀❀❀❀

“You can stop here, Hyung,” Wonwoo says, and the car comes to a halt. He unbuckles his seatbelt and turns to Jaekyung, “Thank you for dropping me, Hyung,” he says.

Jaekyung smiles charmingly and asks, "When can we meet again?” he asks and Wonwoo giggles, “Again? Are you that eager to go out with me again?” He feels brave enough to tease Jaekyung.

Jaekyung responds by leaning forth and pressing a kiss against Wonwoo’s cheeks, lingering for a second before pulling away, “always eager to see you,” he says as Wonwoo’s cheeks warm up, “I miss you already,”

Wonwoo swallows, feeling dazed, as Jaekyung pulls away and settles in his seat, watching Wonwoo with intense eyes.

Wonwoo licks his lips, “sweet talker,” he mumbles under his breath and Jaekyung laughs, “you’re cute. And you wonder why I’m always eager,”

Wonwoo purses his lips. He might combust at this rate!

“I’ll come whenever you call me, Hyung,” Wonwoo says shyly. God, he doesn’t remember the last time someone made his heart race like this, someone made him feel so dumb and silly and…

Jaekyung grins, “I’ll free up my schedule for you, hm?”

Wonwoo nods, eyes twinkling with hope. He can’t wait for that day.

Before his heart overcomes his rationality, Wonwoon opens the door and steps out, rushing towards the main door of his parents’ house and turning around to wave at Jaekyung, who’s parked farther away.

Wonwoo watches Jaekyung back up and drive away, and takes a deep breath. He smiles to himself.

He turns around and walks into the house using his key, cheeks dusted red. It’s been a few months since Jaekyung and he have been….meeting up.

Nothing has been labeled yet but…. Wonwoo feels positive about this. It could possibly be heading somewhere.

He kicks off his shoes and strolls into the house, announcing his arrival, “Mom! Dad! I’m home!” he says, walking into the dining hall. But he comes to a halt when he sees a visitor sitting on the table alongside Mom and Dad.

Wonwoo’s eyes widen when he realizes it’s Mingyu.

“Yah! When did you come back?!” Wonwoo asks, rushing over to where Mingyu’s seated and hugging his head, essentially. Mom and Dad exchange a glance and laugh as Mingyu cranes his neck to look up at him, “just now,” he smiles politely, and Wonwoo takes his seat beside Mingyu.

Mingyu had gone back home for the holidays.

“You should’ve called me,” Wonwoo says and Mingyu smiles, “I did,”

Wonwoo gasps and grabs his phone, surprised to see five missed calls from Mingyu and two from his parents. He bites his lips, guilty, “Mingyu-yah, I—“

“Wonwoo-yah, no matter how busy you are with your new boyfriend, you mustn’t ignore your friends and family!” his Mom scolds and wait, what?!

Wonwoo turns to Mingyu with wide eyes, “you told them?!”

Before Mingyu can respond, Appa speaks up, “We may be old but we’re not stupid, Wonwoo-yah. You’ve been out and about town lately and if it’s not with Mingyu then it was safe to assume it was with someone else,”

Great.

Well, it’s Wonwoo’s fault. He has been going out with Jaekyung almost every other day.

“Right,” Wonwoo clears his throat as his Mom serves him some food, pushing the plate towards him, “I apologise,”

Mom smiles, “so, tell us. Who is it that’s gotten my Wonwoo so preoccupied?” She chirps and Wonwoo licks his lips, heart racing and mind dizzy. He sneaks a glance at Mingyu, who is busy chewing food.

What is with him?

Things with Jaekyung have been great but things with Mingyu…..

“It’s…Mom, it’s…how do I say this….” Wonwoo hesitates. He hasn’t dated much in the past but what he has with Jaekyung is different.

“It’s Kim Jaekyung,” Mingyu speaks up, “my older brother,”

Well.

The cats out of the bag.

And it looks like the information takes his Mom and Dad by surprise because the two freeze, wide eyed as they stare at Wonwoo in disbelief. After a few moments, they finally speak up.

“The Second Prince?!”

“Mingyu’s older brother?!”

Wonwoo shrinks in his seat and laughs lowly, glancing at Mingyu, asking him to help him out a little, but Mingyu busies himself with his food. Wonwoo swallows.

“When were you going to tell us?!” his Mom exclaims and Wonwoo sighs, “Soon. When things got serious,”

“How much more serious can it be? You’ve been going out for months,” Mingyu casually slips in and Mom gasps, “it is that serious? Wonwoo-yah!”

“You’re not helping!” Wonwoo hisses at Mingyu, who just shrugs it off.

“The Second Prince is interested in our son?” His dad asks in disbelief and Wonwoo scoffs, “Wah. I can be a catch, yknow?”

Mom turns to her husband, holding his hand, “Honey, our baby might become a Prince one day,”

“Oh my god!” Wonwoo blushes, “Mom! You’re thinking too far ahead!”

And Wonwoo? A prince? Nothing about him screams royalty! And marriage? To Jaekyung? Wonwoo’s dizzy already!

“Wonwoo-yah! The Royals don’t date casually! If it has been going on for this long, it must be something special! Mingyu-yah, tell him!” Mom says.

First of all, it’s always hilarious that, over many interactions, his parents have become desensitized to Mingyu’s royal status as well. He’s Wonwoo’s friend in this house, and also a third son to Wonwoo’s parents.

Wonwoo turns to Mingyu with expectant eyes.

Mingyu plays with his food, contemplating. “We’re not allowed to date unless it’s very serious,” he says, “so Ahjumma is right,”

Wonwoo turns a bright shade of red.

Serious? They haven’t even kissed yet!

Oh God…

Wonwoo’s dizzy.

“I heard he graduated from Oxford! He’s also next to the throne! I’ve also heard that he is very handsome! Wonwoo-yah! Don’t let him go! Ever!” his Mom squeals and though Wonwoo feels embarrassed, he just smiles.

“I don’t plan on doing so anyway, Mom,” he admits, cheeks flushed. As his parents cheer, Wonwoo sneaks a glance at Mingyu.

Mingyu’s the only one here who doesn’t seem happy for Wonwoo.

❀❀❀❀

Wonwoo swears he will never get used to the camera flashes and the paparazzi. Not in this lifetime.

He braces himself before stepping out of the car and puts on a smile as he stands up, finally facing the hoards of cameras crowding the entrance of the Hospital.

He bows and waves, gracefully walking over to Jaekyung’s side and linking arms.

“You look gorgeous tonight,” Jaekyung whispers to Wonwoo, “did you put on makeup?”

Wonwoo smiles softly, “Thank you, Hyung. And not much, haha,”

Jaekyung smiles and leans in to press a kiss on Wonwoo’s cheeks, evoking cheers from the people around them. Wonwoo flushes a bright red, lowering his head as he walks down the red carpet and into the hospital.

“They always love that,” Jaekyung says once they’re out of public eye, “the kisses,”

Wonwoo’s smile falters, realising. But he brushes it off, “Yeah, they do,” he chuckles, his grip on Jaekyung’s arm loosening.

The couple is, however startled by a louder cheer outside, and the cause of it stands tall and proud on the red carpet, looking as majestic as ever. Third Prince Kim Mingyu belongs in the spotlight. He poses naturally, confidently. His aura is regal yet warm, and a smile from him makes the cameras flash brighter.

It’s only now that Wonwoo takes a good look at his outfit. From his shoes to his tie, his entire outfit is matte black, with just a hint of jewelry adorning his tie and a watch on his wrist. This Mingyu is nothing like the impish 23 year old from back then. This Mingyu has grown into his alpha features handsomely.

Wonwoo snaps out of his thoughts when he feels Jaekyung tug at his arm.

“Let’s go. They’re waiting,” Jaekyung says and Wonwoo can only hope Jaekyung didn’t catch him looking at Mingyu.

Wonwoo turns to the man and smiles, “let’s go,”

❀❀❀❀

“Are you sure you can go back alone?” Dad asks as Wonwoo and Mingyu put on their coats. Wonwoo smiles, “the dorm is close by. Plus, we could use a walk after that heavy meal,”

Dad smiles as Mingyu straightens, “Thank you for having me over,” he says and Dad pats his back, “you should visit more often, Mingyu-yah,”

Mingyu smiles and heads to the door, leaving Wonwoo and his Dad to hug, “are you happy, Wonwoo-yah?” His dad whispers in his ears when they embrace.

Wonwoo smiles, “I have one little thing to sort out. After that, I will be happy,” he says and his Dad smiles. They pull away, “take care. I trust you to work things out,”

Wonwoo smiles and joins Mingyu. The two walk out the door together, stepping into the chilly weather.

Awkward silence blankets them as they walk down the street. Thankfully, Mingyu doesn’t march ahead and chooses to match Wonwoo’s pace.

“Sorry I didn’t answer your call,” Wonwoo speaks up. He needs to clear the air between them.

Mingyu hums, “it’s okay. Now I know who not to call when I’m dying or whatever,”

Wonwoo clicks his tongue, “so bitchy. It was once and it’s not like I’m your Emergency contact or something anyway,” he mumbles.

Mingyu scoffs, “you are,”

Wonwoo’s brain processes that information for a moment. Mingyu doesn’t seem like he’s lying.

And that makes Wonwoo feel even worse.

“I’m sorry,” Wonwoo exhales, huddling closer to Mingyu, arms brushing, “I should’ve asked you if it was okay before…running off with your older brother,”

Mingyu doesn’t reply for a moment.

“It’s weird, you know?" he begins, “you dating my brother,”

Wonwoo purses his lips.

“But if that’s who you like and want to be with then..who am I to get in between that?” Mingyu finishes and Wonwoo exhales.

“I do..like him. He makes me….” Wonwoo inhales, “he makes me feel ….seen. I haven’t felt this way in a long time and…I like it when I’m with him. It’s hard to explain,”

Mingyu hums, “I understand. There are people with whom you feel comfortable enough to be yourself. You like the person you are when you’re with them. It’s a nice feeling. For me that’s—“ Mingyu turns to Wonwoo and pauses. Wonwoo raises his brows questioningly and Mingyu looks away, “— for me that’s a foreign feeling. I…I’ve heard Taehyungie Hyung describe it to me but…I’ve never felt that way before,”

Wonwoo swallows.

It’s true.

Wonwoo likes who he is with Jaekyung. They can talk for hours and Jaekyung always indulges him. Wonwoo likes that when he’s with Jaekyung, he can be vocal about things he wasn’t vocal about before. Jaekyung makes him feel heard and acknowledged. He listens to Wonwoo when he talks about the most mundane things. Wonwoo feels..content.

“Yeah,” Wonwoo smiles.

Mingyu sighs, “I’m sorry I’ve made things awkward between us. I hope we can …. move on from that,”

Wonwoo bites his lips.

“Hey,” he wraps an arm around Mingyu’s neck, “I’ll always be your friend. No matter what. Hm?”

Mingyu smiles, wrapping an arm around his waist, “that’s all I want,”

Wonwoo laughs.

And just like that, the air between them has been cleared.

Wonwoo loves that it’s so easy with Mingyu.

“Can I ask you a question?” Mingyu says and Wonwoo turns to him, “sure,”

“Why Jaekyung? And…what if he …asks your hand in marriage?”

Wonwoo’s cheeks warm up instantly.

“Oh…” Wonwoo swallows, “I…I already told you how I feeel about him. Plus, he’s…he’s handsome! And a Prince? Hahah…”

Mingyu hums, “I’m handsome and I’m a Prince,” he says and Wonwoo chuckles, “and?”

“Why not just date me?” Mingyu asks and they come to a halt. Wonwoo turns to look at Mingyu, trying to decipher the intention behind that question.

Mingyu doesn’t look like he’s joking and…Wonwoo doesn’t know what to make of it.

“I….I didn’t think you were…interested in me,” Wonwoo steps away from the man, “you said I was your ‘dude’ or whatever,”

Mingyu shoves his hands in his pockets as Wonwoo’s heart races. What…huh…?

Mingyu laughs, “relax, I’m not trying to ask you out,” and Wonwoo relaxes indeed, exhaling.

“Then why’d you ask?!” he punches Mingyu’s arm and the latter shrugs, “just wanted to see what was desirable about my big brother,”

Wonwoo hums.

“As for the other half of the question, I don’t know if… Jaekyung Hyung is even interested in me…in that way…”

A part of him still believes he’s dreaming. To be courted by the most eligible alpha bachelor in the nation?? It feels surreal. And marriage? Seems like a long shot.

It’s not that Wonwoo’s thought about marriage, or that it’s ever been a goal in his life. But…a part of him does long for some…commitment. Jaekyung cannot date casually but if he likes Wonwoo enough to marry him, he wouldn’t be completely opposed to the idea.

“What do you mean?” Mingyu asks.

Wonwoo shakes his head, “I’m just…. I’m plain, old Wonwoo, haha. I don’t know if he’d want me as his life partner. I don’t know if this country would accept me as its Prince,” he voices his thoughts, “but either way, those things aren’t going to happen any time soon, so…I mean, I don’t think we’re even exclusive yet… I don’t know,”

“Hey,” Mingyu grabs Wonwoo’s hand, “to me, you’re the most wonderful person I’ve ever known. And if Jaekyung Hyung likes you, he knows that as well, okay?”

Wonwoo chuckles.

‘If’ he likes you.

Mingyu’s unsure about that as well.

But his words comfort Wonwoo regardless.

“Okay,” Wonwoo says and Mingyu exhales. He pulls Wonwoo closer, shoving their locked hands into his coat pocket, “it’s cold, stay close,” and Wonwoo chuckles.

“Hope winter passes soon,” Wonwoo hums and Mingyu nods, “it will,”

❀❀❀❀

“And that is why I am proud of the team of Doctors, Researchers and Medical Staff who have dedicated their precious time to making this world a better place by being a part of South Korea’s first Centre Of Excellence for Mental Health, here at Seoul National University Hospital,” Jaekyung says and applause rains on him.

Wonwoo smiles, looking around at all the distinguished men and women present here, partaking in something truly revolutionary. Wonwoo can tell the fundraiser will be a success!

“My team and I have worked hard to set things up here,” Jaekyung says, “and my lovely husband has supported me immensely in making this possible,” he gestures towards Wonwoo, and all eyes are on him. Wonwoo just smiles and nods, as Jaekyung begins to speak again, “I hope that everyone here can be a part of our journey and support us. To sum it all up, I would like to quote Robert Frost, ‘the best way out is always through.’ Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. Please enjoy the evening,”

And the applause intensifies and turns into a standing ovation. Wonwoo grins as Jaekyung bows and walks off stage, allowing the Presenter to take over. On the way here, he’s greeted by people, who seemingly congratulate him for setting this institution up.

When Jae finally makes it back to Wonwoo, he hugs him, kissing his cheek when he pulls back, “How was I?” he asks and Wonwoo smiles, “wonderful,” he says as the Presenter announces the beginning of the silent auction and donations.

Jaekyung smiles and laces their fingers, “I should come to these events more often, huh?” he asks and Wonwoo chuckles, “I’d like that,”

Jaekyung grins and grabs a glass of champagne for himself from one of the waiters, giving Wonwoo a moment to look around. People have dispersed, some enjoying the hors d'oeuvre, others immersing themselves in conversations with others. After all, it’s rare for the who’s who of the country to gather in one place. Only Wonwoo knows how hard it was for his team to get them all on board. Their presence alone raises a great deal of awareness. Others have congregated in the back, around the donation booths and the silent auction. Wonwoo smiles and he’s about to bring his attention back to Jaekyung when he sees someone sticking out like a sore thumb.

Wonwoo spots Mingyu by himself, sipping on champagne, hand in his pocket as he reads the banner. Mingyu looks devilishly handsome and sticks out like the royal he is and yet he’s alone.

Perhaps rumours never really go away.

Wonwoo only looks away when a group of women approach him, making him turn to face them and smile, kissing their hands in a greeting.

“Your Royal highness,” a voice interrupts and Wonwoo turns to look at Lee Dongmin, the Airline mogul, approaching them, followed by his son, soon to take over the company, Lee Seokmin.

Jaekyung turns and bows, “So good to see you, Lee Dongmin-ssi,” he says and the old man laughs heartily, “Good to see you too,” he shakes hands with Jaekyung, “Congratulations! I can see you worked hard on this. Everything is perfect, down to the banner,” he says and Jae laughs, “thank you!”

Wonwoo just smiles when Lee Seokmin shuffles closer to him, “Good evening, Hyung,” he says and Wonwoo smiles, speaking in hushed tones as Jae and Seokmin’s Dad engage in conversation, “hey. Glad you could make it,”

Seokmin grins, “Can’t turn down an invitation from the People’s Prince,”

Wonwoo chuckles.

Wonwoo hasn’t been incredibly social in the last few years. He’s buried himself in work at the company and events like this. Most of his relationships are superficial. And then came along Seokmin, one of Wonwoo’s only friends apart from Jeonghan, and well, Seungkwan. They met at a Horse race.

“So, it is true, huh,” Seokmin says, eyes looking past Wonwoo and at Mingyu. Wonwoo purses his lips, “Yeah,”

Seokmin huffs, “I was sure the Third Prince had disappeared. Especially after everything that happened,”

Wonwoo glances at Mingyu, standing alone by the banner, “Yeah, me too,”

An idea strikes him and Wonwoo turns to Seokmin, “hey, can you go…keep him company?” he whispers to Seokmin.

Seokmin however, doesn’t question it.

“I was planning on approaching him anyway,” he smiles, “and now that you’ve specifically asked for it, it shall be my top priority,”

Wonwoo chuckles, “Thanks, Seokmin-ah,”

“Gentleman, Excuse me,” Seokmin says, addressing his father and Jaekyung, and walks away. Wonwoo relaxes when Seokmin approaches Mingyu and they shake hands.

He exhales and brings his attention back to Lee Dongmin and Jaekyung.

“It’s good that young people like you are at the helm of affairs,” Lee Dongmin says, “areas like Mental Health are rarely addressed by us old folks. I can rest assured knowing the nation is in the capable hands of people like you,”

Jaekyung grins, “thank you, Sir. Your words and encouragement mean a lot to us,”

Lee Dongmin smiles and finally turns to Wonwoo, “Your Royal Highness,” he bows and Wonwoo mirrors him, “good to see you, Lee Dongmin-ssi,”

The man smiles, eyes shifting between Jaekyung and Wonwoo, “You two make a wonderful pair. Easy on the eyes,”

Wonwoo smiles as Jae pulls him close, “I got lucky with this one,”

Wonwoo chuckles and Lee Dongmin speaks up, “Wonderful. You know, my wife was wondering if you had thought about…doubling your family,”

Wonwoo raises his brows, understanding the intention behind those words.

“Ah, we haven’t thought about it yet,” Jae says, unconsciously squeezing Wonwoo’s waist.

“Ah, what a waste. I’m sure the Prince here would make a wonderful father,” he addresses Wonwoo and the latter just smiles, “soon, hopefully,” he says and Dongmin laughs.

“Alright, alright. I will stop pestering you about it,” he says and Wonwoo exhales, relieved.

“Your Royal Highness, there are people I’d like you to meet. Please follow me,” Dongmin says and Jaekyung smiles, “sure!”

He and Wonwoo begin to follow Dongmin but Wonwoo stumbles, startling himself and Jae.

Wonwoo glances at his feet and realizes his shoe has come off, far too loose in his feet.

His first instinct is to look around and he realizes that, though not all, quite a few of the guests have witnessed the embarrassment. Wonwoo quickly slips into the shoe and clears his throat, looking up at Jae who just watches him with quizzical brows, “you go ahead, Love,” he says.

Jae nods and turns to Dongmin, smiling as he’s guided towards the foreign ambassador seated on the lawn outside.

Wonwoo straightens and sighs.

❀❀❀❀

Wonwoo doesn’t think much of it when he’s intercepted outside his dorm by a man claiming to work for the Royal Guard.

Wonwoo isn’t naive. He asks for an identity card, and upon getting that out of the way, he gets into the car.

He assumes it’s from Jae who has sent this bodyguard - driver duo to pick him up. But Wonwoo couldn’t have been more wrong.

The car was sent by the Queen, and he only finds out when he steps into a room consisting of Mingyu, Jaekyung and the Queen.

Wonwoo’s heart thumps loudly and he feels overly conscious of his appearance and posture.

Don’t get him wrong, he’s been to the Royal Palace before but he’s never actually really met the Queen. Not face to face. Wonwoo’s eyes seek Mingyu’s, confusion written all over them.

Mingyu says nothing and lowers his head as the Queen stands up from where she was sitting, walking over to Wonwoo with graceful strides. Wonwoo wonders how long she trained for it to come naturally to her.

He holds his breath as she walks upto him, her eyes scanning his body from top to bottom. Wonwoo only now realises how short she is.

After a thorough visible inspection, the Queen comes to stand in front of Wonwoo, eyes intense, “are you an omega? You don’t look like one,”

Wow.

“Mom!” Mingyu speaks up but the Queen raises her hand, silencing him. Mingyu helplessly shuts himself up and Wonwoo can’t even bring himself to ask him for help in this situation.

“I am, Your Majesty. A recessive omega,” Wonwoo bows to her. He’s learned that it’s best not to resist in situations like this.

The Queen huffs, “Recessive. That explains everything,” she clears her throat and Wonwoo chuckles nervously. It’s nothing he hasn’t heard before. He must say though — the Queen isn’t very kind.

“Eomma,” Jaekyung finally speaks up, his tone berating. The Queen purses her lips, turning to Jae with a softened expression, “Is it really this boy you are seeing?”

Wonwoo’s heart skips a beat. So she knows…

Is that why he’s been summoned here?

Wonwoo sneaks glance at Mingyu, who remains silent, tucked into a corner. Jae exhales and stands up, “Yes. Wonwoo and I are seeing each other,” he says.

Wonwoo purses his lips.

Well, it’s safe to conclude they’re exclusive. He doubts the Queen would let multiple people hover around her son. She doesn’t seem to approve of Wonwoo either.

She turns around, “you, what is it that you want? Money?” she questions and Wonwoo wishes to laugh at the absurdity of the question. He thought situations like these were restricted to dramas.

“Mom! He’s not like that!” Mingyu argues and the Queen turns to him, “silence, boy,”

Mingyu forces himself to shut up yet again.

Wonwoo swallows. Perhaps this situation isn’t as funny as he’d thought.

The queen exhales, rubbing her temples.

“Wonwoo, was it?” she speaks up, this time less frantic than before.

“Yes, Your Majesty,” he smiles and she exhales. She walks over to the table and picks up some photos, handing them over to Wonwoo.

She sits down, rubbing her temples as Wonwoo goes through the photographs. A soft gasp escapes his lips when he sees himself in the pictures — with both Mingyu and Jaekyung. He knew he was being followed. He felt it…

“I…don’t understand,” he says. Aren’t they just photographs?

The Queen sighs, “You are being followed, Wonwoo-ssi, because you’re linked to the two Alpha Princes of this country,”

Wonwoo still doesn’t understand what she’s getting at.

She continues, “Rumours will spread and I need to know if you’re worth protecting,”

Wonwoo frowns, “I’m sorry, I don’t—“

“If you are in any way conning either of my sons for selfish reasons then I apologise, I will have no choice but to expose you and make your life hell,” the Queen threatens and Wonwoo can’t believe what he’s hearing.

But he gets it. The involvement of such a person with the Royals will prove disastrous to their reputation.

“Mom! Wonwoo is not that kind of a person! Why won’t you listen to me?!” Mingyu argues and the Queen is about to shut him down once again when Wonwoo interjects, “Mingyu-yah, it’s okay,” he says, and Mingyu frowns.

Wonwoo turns to the Queen, “Your Majesty, I understand that you are doing this to protect your family,”

As powerful as the Royal family is, it is equally vulnerable. Wonwoo can’t imagine how the Queen holds it all together

The Queen swallows as Wonwoo smiles, “However, I must clarify that I have no ill-intentions with any of your sons. Whether you believe me or not is best left to your judgment. Mingyu and Jae Hyung are…very dear to me, as they are to you. I would hate to knowingly harm them,”

Her expression softens and Wonwoo purses his lips, “I understand how you feel. You cherish your family above all and cannot tolerate any harm that might befall them. If their association with me causes them trouble, I will gladly step aside. But I do ask that you give me a chance, Your Majesty."

Silence engulfs the room and Wonwoo keeps his cool despite being terrified. He knows what the Queen is capable of. He doesn’t want his parents to be dragged into it either.

After a moment, the Queen exhales.

“Juwon,” she calls and the Bodyguard who had picked up Wonwoo steps up, “Your Majesty,” he bows and the Queen sighs.

“Track down that paparazzi and charge him with stalking. Ensure no more photos are circulated. Keep these boys safe at all costs, yes?”

Wonwoo exhales, relieved, as Mingyu walks upto him, tackling him with a tight hug, “oh thank god!”

Wonwoo chuckles, returning the hug. He can feel Mingyu’s racing heart against his chest. He must’ve been scared. He knows what his mom is capable of.

They pull away and Mingyu looks like he’s about to say something when Jae appears beside them, pulling Wonwoo in for a hug as well, “I’m so glad,” he whispers in his ear and Wonwoo blushes.

Does this mean he can keep seeing Jae?

The queen, having wrapped up her affairs here, prepares to leave. She walks past Wonwoo but halts, “you have a way with words, Wonwoo-ssi. Have you considered journalism?”

Wonwoo shakes his head, “Accountant, Your Majesty, is what I want to become,”

She smiles, “Dream big, boy. Life has greater things to offer,”

And with that, she leaves. Wonwoo should note that down to use later somewhere.

With the Queen gone, Mingyu approaches Wonwoo, “hey, maybe we should head back—“ but Jae tugs at Wonwoo’s arm, yanking him to his side, “I’ll show you around the palace. Come,”

“Oh, I—“ but before he can say anything, Jae drags him away from Mingyu, who smiles somberly at him.

Wonwoo swallows and turns to Jae with a smile.

❀❀❀❀

When Wonwoo enters the washroom, he takes a moment to gather his thoughts.

Leaning against the door, he looks down at his shoes. Dirty and loose, awkward on his feet. He wonders if Jaekyung’s okay. Aren’t Wonwoo’s shoes tight on him?

Wonwoo pushes himself off the door and walks over to the sink, daring to look up at his reflection in the mirror. His eyes seem to not focus on his face whatsoever. All he sees is a blurry image.

Wonwoo exhales. He wishes he could splash some water on his face but then the makeup would be ruined. He lowers his head and takes a deep breath.

Perhaps he should just hang around here in the washroom for a bit. He’s going to have to talk to the reporters soon so he needs to recharge his energy before he does that.

He turns and leans against the sink, taking deep breaths, in and out. Unfortunately for Wonwoo though, privacy is a luxury he cannot afford. The washroom door opens and Wonwoo exhales defeatedly. Oh, well. At least he had a few seconds of peace.

“Hyeong-nim,” the voice says and Wonwoo tenses, looking up at Mingyu, “a little cowardly that you’re hiding in the washroom,” he jokes.

Wonwoo averts his gaze, “just recharging,” he mumbles, heart racing. Mingyu makes him….nervous.

Mingyu walks over to him, pulling out a handkerchief to dab his face and remove excess sweat. Wonwoo can’t bring himself to move. He can’t bring himself to walk away. He’s not sure if he wants to.

“Here,” Mingyu says, shoving his handkerchief back in his pocket. Confused, Wonwoo looks down and notices that Mingyu’s kicking his shoes off his feet.

“What are you doing?” Wonwoo asks, surprised as Mingyu pushes his leather shoes towards Wonwoo with his feet.

“The People’s Prince should dress better,” Mingyu says, pointing at Wonwoo’s clumsy and dirty shoes.

“I can’t wear your shoes. What will you wear?” Wonwoo questions, stepping back, hesitant.

“I’ll wear whatever you’re wearing,” he says and Wonwoo shakes his head, “I can’t let you do that,” he says defensively. Mingyu exhales, “Won, just—“

“Mingyu, no,” he says firmly and Mingyu exhales.

“Fine,” Mingyu shrugs, slipping back into his shoes. Wonwoo relaxes, grateful that Mingyu’s dropped it. Mingyu grabs a handful of tissues and surprises Wonwoo by kneeling.

“What are you—“ Wonwoo gasps out loud as Mingyu gently holds his foot, raising it. Mingyu doesn’t let Wonwoo pull away, holding the foot in place, “you won’t wear my shoes so you’ve left me no choice,” he says as he begins cleaning the dusty surface with the damp tissue.

Knowing it will make things worse, Wonwoo stops resisting and lets Mingyu do what he’s doing. He exhales, rubbing his face frustratedly.

“Careful,” Mingyu says, “your makeup,”

Wonwoo drops his hands to his sides immediately, balancing himself against the sink in this awkward position as Mingyu gets every little nook and corner clean. Wonwoo sighs, staring at the top of Mingyu’s head as he polishes Wonwoo’s shoes.

“You tripped earlier,” Mingyu says, snapping Wonwoo out of his trance. Wonwoo purses his lips, “you saw that, huh?”

Mingyu huffs, “eveyone saw that,” and Wonwoo groans. It might mean nothing to the layman but as Royals whose every move is closely monitored, that was a great embarrassment.

Mingyu hums, “that’s what happens when you give your things to someone else. Like your shoes, your speech…”

Wonwoo bites his lips. He clenches his fists. It’s infuriating how well Mingyu knows him.

“Nice speech, by the way,” Mingyu says as he moves onto Wonwoo’s other leg and Wonwoo exhales.

“How did you know?” Wonwoo asks and Mingyu looks up at Wonwoo, “the speech ended with a quote,”

Wonwoo sighs, “that’s it?”

‘That’s all it took for you to know it’s me? ’

Mingyu smiles, “Yes. You do that with your speeches,” he says as a matter of fact, and Wonwoo exhales.

He didn’t know he had a pattern.

Or that Mingyu has been observing.

“You watch my events?” Wonwoo asks carefully as Mingyu grabs some more tissue. The man smiles, “I’ve watched them all. Live telecasted, illegal links, everything,”

Wonwoo swallows, “why?”

He knows why but… why?

“I think you look the best on stage, Won, when you’re up there talking about things you worked so hard for. Your eyes sparkle,” Mingyu says, stuffing tissue into the back of Wonwoo’s shoe to make up for its looseness.

Wonwoo doesn’t respond, entranced by Mingyu’s words. He looks best on stage. That’s something he’s never been told.

“You should’ve been up there tonight,” Mingyu says, finally standing up. Wonwoo glances at his squeaky, clean shoes and bites back a smile.

“People need to know it was you that did everything,” Mingyu says, stepping next to Wonwoo and washing his hands.

“In the Order of precedence, Jae holds a more important position. He had to give the speech. Plus, it’s rare for him to come to these events. I’m just happy he made it to this one,” Wonwoo justifies and Mingyu scoffs, “praising people for the bare minimum is counterproductive, Won. You’re setting the standard too low,”

Wonwoo tightens his jaw.

“I’m not as naive as you think I am, Mingyu,” Wonwoo says firmly, “and if you think you can treat me as some damsel in distress and woo me then you’re wrong,”

Mingyu’s eyes widen, “What? That’s not what I—“

Halfway through the sentence Mingyu comes to the realisation that his actions did indeed come off that way.

“I’m sorry,” he apologises quickly and Wonwoo exhales. Wonwoo could question the things Mingyu does, like getting down on his knees on the bathroom floor and polishing his shoes. He could question the intent but Wonwoo knows Mingyu enough to know he would never do that with the intention to woo Wonwoo. Things like that come naturally to him.

“Forget it,” Wonwoo sighs, “thank you for the shoes, Mingyu,” he says and forces himself to walk away from Mingyu.

❀❀❀❀

“The Queen summoned you?!” Jeonghan chokes on his drink and Wonwoo sighs, “Yeah. It was terrifying,” he admits, “but I held my own,” he says, “thankfully I didn’t shut my pants,”

Jeonghan scoffs, “I would’ve,” and Wonwoo chuckles. He swirls his drink, staring at the contents of it.

“What was it even about? National security? Trade secrets? Don’t tell me — are they lizard people?!” and Wonwoo laughs out loud.

“None of that!” he clarifies, taking a sip. He looks around to confirm that people in the cafe are far too busy to eavesdrop on their conversation. He clears his throat and leans forth for better measure, whispering, “Apparently some Paparazzi took photos of me with Jae Hyung and Mingyu. The Queen was worried,”

Jeonghan cocks a brow, “worried about?”

Wonwoo shrugs, “first, she doubted my character and threatened to ruin my life or whatever because if her sons are caught involved with someone like me, it would be bad PR,”

Jeonghan huffs, “wow. The Royals are messy, huh?”

Wonwoo smirks, “Yeah. Anyway, I held my own and hopefully convinced her that I was not in fact after her sons’ money,”

Jeonghan laughs, “great. And now what? The Queen likes you?”

Wonwoo pauses and lowers his gaze, “Jae Hyung did say that. That she approves of me,”

Jeonghan’s eyes widen, “Wonwoo, you know what this means, right? If she’s approved of you then you’re a suitable candidate for marriage,”

Yeah Wonwoo’s considered that possibility. And it seems likely.

“Does that mean I’ll become a Prince one day?” Wonwoo chuckles dryly, oddly excited and afraid.

Jeonghan smirks, “Your Majesty, I hope you’ll think of me when you become the Nation’s son-in-law,”

Wonwoo laughs, “what even is that? Also, I will be Your Royal Highness. Your Majesty is reserved for the Queen,”

“Wow, look at you. Already in on that Royal lingo, hm?”

Wonwoo chuckles. Well.

God he can’t stop smiling.

It’s not that he hopes to become Jaekyung’s husband but…it wouldn’t be so bad. Wonwoo really likes him…

“Wow, my friend is going to be a prince. But, I always thought you’d marry Mingyu,” Jeonghan says. Wonwoo’s eyes widen, “Mingyu? What?”

Jeonghan shrugs, “I mean, you guys are close. It was only a matter of time before things took a turn for the better,”

Wonwoo lowers his gaze, shaking his head, “Mingyu’s never shown any romantic interest in me so…plus, I am dating his brother! I cannot just— shift,” Wonwoo jokes and Jeonghan hums.

Thankfully he drops that line of questioning.

“So, if the Second Prince ever proposes to you, will you say yes? You guys have been together for a few months now…” Jeonghan asks.

Wonwoo gulps.

“I….probably,” he says, blushing and Jeonghan laughs.

“Oh my god! You’re in love, Wonungie!” Jeonghan says and Wonwoo laughs.

❀❀❀❀

It’s finally time for Wonwoo to feed himself to the sharks.

The reporters.

After a few hours of socializing with everyone inside, Wonwoo and Jaekyung decide to address the press. A handful of reporters are let in towards the end of the event to interview the guests.

It’s a gold mine of gossip, but Wonwoo is determined not to give the Press even a morsel of drama.

But the Royals are messy and that seems inevitable.

“Prince Jaekyung, what compelled you to make this University the Centre of Excellence?” The lady asks, and Jaekyung smiles, “well, SNU is the top university in this country. It only made sense to do it here,"

Wonwoo licks his lips, knowing that wasn’t the answer the reporter was looking for. Wonwoo clears his throat and chimes in, “Soo Jung Lee, an esteemed criminal and forensic psychologist, is an alumnus of SNU. SNU was also the first university in Korea to offer a Bachelor’s in Psychology. The quality of education has improved immensely here, and thus, it was only noble to inaugurate the Centre of Excellence here,”

The Reporter smiles, “thank you for your time, Princes Jaekyung and Wonwoo,”

Pleased with the answer, she and her cameraman walk away, allowing the next Reporter to take her place.

“You should’ve given me some notes about this event,” Jaekyung whispers in Wonwoo’s ear, “now I look like a fool, don’t I?”

Wonwoo doesn’t let his smile fade and just nods, whispering back, “you weren’t going to attend the event in the first place,”

Jaekyung is about to say something when the reporter looks up at them, “We’ve heard a great deal about the Hospital and the CoE already, thanks to the other reporters. I would like to focus on you two, Prince Wonwoo and Prince Jaekyung,”

Oh boy.

Wonwoo recognises this man. He runs this online news portal, essentially Korea’s largest gossip blog. He’s getting straight into it.

Jaekyung laughs, “what about us?” he asks and the Reporter smiles, “First of all, you two look wonderful today,”

“Thank you,” Wonwoo says and the Reporter grins.

“I’ve heard that Prince Taehyung’s wedding was the result of an unplanned pregnancy. Is that true?”

There you go.

Jae’s smile fades, “Untrue,” he says and Wonwoo chimes in, “Prince Taehyung and Jungkook-nim’s alliance is based on trust and love. It is an honest commitment , not a forced one,”

The reporter nods, “Great! How about you two? Any news we may expect soon?” he wriggles his brows suggestively, and Wonwoo already knows what he’s getting at.

“We have been so busy that we think it is not the right time to … being a child into the family. We hope to clear some things from our plate and then, hopefully…” Jaekyung laughs and Wonwoo purses his lips into a thin smile. Good answer!

The reporter smiles, “Ah, you can never be less busy, eh? The nation is waiting! But seeing that you two haven’t even mated yet, we can naturally expect things to move slower than usual, eh? Hahahah…”

Jaekyung’s grip on Wonwoo’s arm tightens. He’s angry.

The two don’t respond to the reporter and he knows it’s time to wrap it up.

“Well, as long as you love each other, that’s all that matters, right?” he says and Wonwoo nods, “yes. We’re more than happy to be together. I love him dearly,” he smiles at Jaekyung, leaning his head on his shoulder.

“Great! And you, Your Royal Highness. Do you love your husband?”

An oddly worded question with a deliberate intent to cause trouble and fish for drama.

Jaekyung just smiles, staring blankly at the reporter. Wonwoo swallows. The silence has lingered for too long. Wonwoo squeezes Jaekyung’s arm and the latter smiles, “I do. Very much,” he says and the Reporter laughs, “Wonderful! Always great meeting you two!”

Finally done.

“Before I leave, may I ask how you feel about the Third Prince’s return?”

Wonwoo tenses, “We uh, we are pleased to have him back,”

The reporter nods, “I hope people aren’t too harsh on him after all that happened. It seems to still bug him. I asked him how he felt about it and he dismissed me,” the man laughs and Wonwoo tightens his jaw.

He asked Mingyu about it?

Wonwoo can’t imagine how Mingyu felt….

“Thank you guys for your time!” The man says and walks away, giving Jaekyung and Wonwoo a moment before the next Reporter steps in.

Wonwoo lets go of the man, turning his neck around to look at Mingyu being interviewed by the reporters. Mingyu looks up at Wonwoo, as if having felt Wonwoo’s eyes on him. When their eyes lock, Mingyu falls silent.

Wonwoo just acknowledges him with a nod, raising his hand and placing it on his chest, tapping it gently to let Mingyu know to take it easy.

Mingyu swallows and brings his attention back to the reporters, smiling this time around. Wonwoo sighs and turns to Jaekyung, who’s pulled out his phone. When he notices Wonwoo’s looking at him, he shoves the phone back in his pocket, clearing his throat.

“Let’s get this horrible night over with, eh?” Jae grumbles.

Wonwoo just forces a smile onto his face as the next reporter steps in.

❀❀❀❀

“Wonwoo-ssi,” a voice calls, and Wonwoo turns around, seeing a black car parked outside his building. A man walks towards him.

Wonwoo should really get used to being approached by members of the Royal Guard and summoned to the Royal Palace.

However, Wonwoo doesn’t worry this time around because the one approaching him is Mingyu’s bodyguard.

“BeomSeok hyung? What are you doing here? Is Mingyu home?” Wonwoo asks, walking towards the man.

Mingyu had gone back home on some business.

Beomseok smiles, “I was told to give this to you,” he says, handing Wonwoo a note.

Confused, Wonwoo opens the note and reads it.

‘I wanna see you soon. Come see me’

His heart skips a beat. He looks up at Beomseok, “this—“

“I will take you to him, Wonwoo-ssi,” Beomseok says, opening the car door. Excited and confused, Wonwoo steps into the car.

He wonders…where he’s being taken to.

—

Anticipation builds in Wonwoo’s gut as the car comes to a halt after about 30 minutes of travel. Wonwoo looks around and realises they’re in the woods.

Wonwoo feels a little overwhelmed when Beomseok opens his door, asking him to step out.

“This way,” Beomseok says, gesturing towards….

Wonwoo’s eyes widen when his gaze lands upon a small cabin, decorated and lit up. There’s a small table out on the lawn, a candle light set-up on it. Wonwoo’s heart beats violently as he walks towards the cabin.

He’s in awe of the beauty around him. The snow only adds to the beauty of the cabin itself. With the evening darkness, the cabin, lit up with lights, looks gorgeous.

Wonwoo’s so distracted by the beauty of it all that he doesn’t realize someone walks up behind him and closes his eyes.

Wonwoo gasps, raising his hands to touch the hands on his eyes, “Min—“

“Guess who~” the voice says and Wonwoo gasps, “Hyung?”

Jaekyung laughs and removes his hands, turning Wonwoo around in his arms, “Hey,”

Wonwoo scoffs in disbelief, “Hyung… what…what is all of this?” he asks, looking around and Jaekyung smiles.

“Well, I’ve been busy lately and haven’t had the chance to see you so…I planned a surprise and called you here,” he says and Wonwoo smiles, hugging him tightly, “This is so beautiful, Hyung. Thank you,”

Jaekyung chuckles, “a beautiful cabin for my beautiful lover,”

Wonwoo’s eyes widen and he pulls away, “what?”

Jaekyung purses his lips and takes Wonwoo’s hands, kissing them, “all this time spent away from you has been so painful. I couldn’t bear it any longer,” Jaekyung says and steps back, going down on one knee.

Wonwoo’s eyes widen, “I never understood what they meant when they said distance makes the heart grow fonder. But now I do,” he says as Wonwoo completely freezes, watching as Jaekyung pulls out a velvet box, opening it to show him a ring.

“H-Hyung—“

“Jeon Wonwoo, will you marry me?”

Wonwoo’s heart leaps out of his chest at that question. He stands there, wide eyed and lips parted as Jaekyung awaits his answer.

It takes Wonwoo a couple of seconds to come to his senses and then, he swallows.

He nods, eyes moist, “yes,” he whispers, “yes!” He says again and Jae smiles, sliding the ring onto Wonwoo’s finger.

Jae wastes no time in standing up and capturing Wonwoo’s lips with his, wrapping his arms around his waist and pulling him close.

Wonwoo melts into the kiss and the embrace, giggling once he pulls away. As Jaekyung litters his face with kisses, Wonwoo couldn’t be happier.

He can’t wait to tell Mingyu.

Chapter 6: Engagement

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Engaged.

Wonwoo’s engaged.

Engaged to be married.

It’s still a fact that he cannot wrap his head around.

He shoves his hands in his pockets and walks up the dimly lit stairs. It’s almost 3 AM. Wonwoo could’ve stayed back at the cabin with Jaekyung, but he was eager to tell Mingyu and hence drove back.

Wonwoo revises in his mind how he’s going to break the news to Mingyu. How would Mingyu react? He would be happy, right?

Wonwoo pauses outside their room.

He just realized that they were going to be in-laws after this. Mingyu will be his brother-in-law.

Wonwoo blinks. It’s a weird title to refer to someone he’s friends with. Wonwoo takes a deep breath. He can only hope the weirdness fades away quickly.

With that said, he finally opens the door and steps in, only to recoil at the stench of alcohol. He covers his nose and winces as he soldiers through and navigates through the darkness.

He finds the switch on the wall and turns to the source of the stench, sleeping on his bed. Wonwoo’s shocked at the state of the room; with beer bottles littered around, Mingyu is asleep on his bed, seemingly having drank it all.

What in the

Wonwoo walks over to Mingyu, trying to shake him awake. Mingyu never drinks, not this much, and never in the dorm. So…

“Yah, wake up!” Wonwoo whisper-yells at the man. His mood is ruined now. Mingyu groans but eventually awakens, sitting up as Wonwoo takes a step back, an angry scowl on his face. He is not pleased with the way Mingyu has soiled their shared room.

“What the fuck do you want?” He grumbles, sitting up. Wonwoo clenches his fists as the man scratches his head and yawns.

“Why did you drink so much? I’ve been trying to call you all night!” Wonwoo says, and Mingyu hums, his eyes puffy and cheeks bloated from the drinking.

“Was at Doyoon’s party?" he mumbles, and Wonwoo swallows. Since when does Mingyu like parties? Especially Doyoon’s.

Wonwoo licks his lips and sighs. He grabs a water bottle from his desk and hands it to Mingyu. "Here,"

Mingyu ruffles his hair and takes the bottle, drinking some as Wonwoo settles down beside him. God, Mingyu stinks.

When done with the water, Mingyu tries to pull the covers over himself and fall asleep, but Wonwoo grabs his hand and says, "I have something to say."

Mingyu doesn’t react. He frees himself from Wonwoo's grip and lies down. “You got engaged."

Wonwoo gasps, "What?"You knew?"

“Hyung texted me. Congrats. Now, can I sleep?” he grunts. Wonwoo’s beyond annoyed. He’s…frustrated. But he can’t bring himself to say anything. He knows it’s because of the alcohol that... Mingyu’s behaving this way...

He stands up silently, about to head back to bed, when Mingyu speaks up again: “And cover that hickey on your neck. The world doesn’t need to know you got fucked tonight.

And that’s what prompts Wonwoo to run out of his dorm immediately, tear-soaked eyes as he dials Jaekyung’s number.

“Hyung?” He speaks up with a shaky voice, “Can you come get me?"

He didn’t think today would be so bittersweet.

❀❀❀❀

“What is this?!” The queen yells, tossing the iPad onto the table. Wonwoo controls the urge to check if the screen is okay and sighs, letting his eyes read the headlines. This was expected.

‘The future of the throne is in danger'

‘A dying dynasty: who will rule the nation after the Second Prince?'

‘Dabbling in Divorce: Kim Jaekyung and Jeon Wonwoo'

‘The Second Prince’s inability to produce an heir might jeopardize the family'

Mingyu snorts at the last headline, shrinking in his seat when all eyes land on him. Wonwoo purses his lips, glancing nervously at the Queen. Her nostrils flare, and she huffs, turning to Jaekyung and Wonwoo and saying, "This event was supposed to be good publicity! How could you ruin this?!"

Well, Wonwoo thought this event was supposed to be for mental health, but apparently not.

“Mom, don’t read into what the press says. You know they like to exaggerate." Jae tries to neutralize the situation as Wonwoo sips on his cup of tea.

“My son, they think you are impotent!” she scolds, and Mingyu lets out another snort. Wonwoo glances at Mingyu, who fails at controlling his smile. Wonwoo bites back a smile as well.

While Jae glares at Mingyu, the Queen pays no mind to it. She adds, “It has been six years since your wedding, and I still don’t have a grandchild! You two haven’t even mated, for heaven’s sake! What is stopping you two? Is there a problem?"

Wonwoo hates the fact that her eyes remain glued to him and not Jae, who is mostly to blame for the way things are.

“We—“ Jae hesitates, scanning the room and lowering his voice. “We’ve been trying, Mom,” he says with a blush. “Maybe there’s a problem with Wonwoo. We’ll get checked after Taehyung’s wedding tomorrow.

Wonwoo scoffs inwardly.

“What if the problem is with you? What if you really are impotent, Second Prince Jaekyung?” Mingyu speaks up in a teasing voice. The Queen doesn’t dismiss him and turns to Jae, who is busy shooting daggers at Mingyu, saying, “You both should get checked. If there is a problem, Jae should be ready to conceive as well.

Wonwoo chokes on his tea as Jaekyung slams his hands on the table. "Outrageous! How could you suggest that, Mom?!” he asks, furiously red. Mingyu hands Wonwoo a napkin to wipe the tea off his shirt, a smug smirk on his face. Wonwoo gulps, with a hint of blush on his cheeks as well.

“Outrageous? You two have caused nothing but trouble for me! The nation seems to believe the two of you aren’t in love anymore."The Queen says:

“Just because of a momentary pause!” Jae argues, and she scoffs.

Wonwoo takes a deep breath. When you’re a royal, every move you make, every little gesture, and every word you say is scrutinized. Arguments like this are common around here, especially over breakfast.

Wonwoo continues with his tea, and the Queen turns to him and says, “After Taehyung’s wedding, you and Jaekyung will be visited by the royal physician."

Wonwoo nods, “Yes, Mom."

She huffs and turns around, leaving her breakfast uneaten.

“And tomorrow you better clear this mess up,” she warns and then storms out, allowing Wonwoo to sigh.

Jaekyung clenches his fists, grabbing Wonwoo’s shoulder harshly. “Who even reads into the pause?!"

Wonwoo sets his tea cup down and frees himself from Jaekyung’s grip. Before he can, Mingyu speaks up. "A momentary pause says a lot more than a million words, Hyung,” he says, standing up and walking to Wonwoo’s side. “Hyeongnim here was kind enough not to chastise you about it. But the people aren’t so kind. You should be more mindful of how you present yourself in the public eye, Hyung."

“Know your limits, Mingyu!” Jae yells, “You’re the last person who should be talking about how to present yourself in public. You’ve done nothing but bring shame to the family!"

Wonwoo closes his eyes, taking deep breaths. These two brothers have no clue how to communicate with each other.

Wonwoo steps in and says, "There is no need to bring that up, honey."Let’s drop that topic, shall we?"

Jae huffs, shoving Wonwoo, “And why are you defending him of all people?!"

Wonwoo’s about to speak up when Mingyu grabs Jae’s collar. “How dare you touch him?"

Jae’s eyes widen, and Wonwoo feels the need to step in before things escalate. He squeezes himself in between the two, pushing Mingyu away. “Mingyu, do not raise your voice or your hands at Jae. He is your older brother.

Mingyu’s eyes widen; betrayal is written all over them. He didn’t expect to be scolded by Wonwoo like this.

Mingyu lets go and lowers his head. “Sorry, Hyeongnim,” he says, and Wonwoo exhales.

“Tomorrow is an important day for Taehyung Hyung. We should act civil, okay?"

Jae swallows, nodding, "Yes."

Mingyu nods, “only because Hyeongnim said so,” he says, and Wonwoo shoots him a pointed glare, knowing Mingyu’s trying to evoke a reaction from Jaekyung. Mingyu just shoots him a smile, and Wonwoo shakes his head.

“Let’s go to work, Jae,” Wonwoo says, taking Jaekyung’s hand. Jae nods, and the two walk past Mingyu. Wonwoo tenses when Mingyu’s fingers brush against his and a wink is thrown his way.

Wonwoo speeds up and tries to keep a poker face as they exit the door, but he can’t help but turn around and sneak a glance at Mingyu, who’s already watching him with a shy smile.

Wonwoo turns back around and purses his lips.

Kim Mingyu confuses him.

❀❀❀❀

“Mom? Dad?” Wonwoo asks carefully, his eyes nervously shifting between his two parents, who have frozen in place following the news of his engagement.

Wonwoo and Jaekyung had gone over to announce their engagement under the pretext of a casual dinner. After they’d warmed up a little, Wonwoo broke the news to them, which brings them to the present—his frozen parents.

Jae softly squeezes Wonwoo’s hand, reassuring him. Wonwoo shoots him a worried glance, and Jae smiles, clearing his throat. “Jangmonin?”

At that, mom gasps, snapping out of her trance, “Jangmonim? Honey, he called me Jangmonim!” she says, shaking her husband, who continues to remain shocked.

A small smile plays on Wonwoo’s lips as emotion overcomes Mom’s features. She turns to them and asks, “Married? You’re going to get married?! Congratulations, my son!” She says this and grabs their hands, Jae and Wonwoo’s, squeezing tightly.

Wonwoo giggles, a heavy weight lifting off his chest. Regardless of how open-minded his parents may be, it will always be nerve-wracking to announce such monumental decisions. He's glad they’re happy. Well, at least Mom is. Dad is only now starting to slowly blink.

“Dad, say something,” Wonwoo coaxes, and the man slowly turns to him, a tear trickling down his eye. It surprises everyone at the table, and Wonwoo springs to his feet. “Are you crying?!” he asks as he grabs Dad’s cheeks, wiping the tears. The older man sniffles, “My son is going to get married." He begins to sob, and Wonwoo chuckles, feeling emotional as well.

Jaekyung laughs, “Jangin, I apologize for not asking you beforehand. I hope you will bless our union,” he says, and Dad nods, “of course, of course!” He stands up and walks over to Jaekyung, pulling him in for a hug.

Wonwoo chuckles as Jaekyung hugs him back, winking at Wonwoo. Wonwoo smiles fondly and turns to his mother, who squeezes his hand gently. “Wonwoo-yah, help me get the dessert."

Wonwoo nods and follows her to the kitchen, giving his dad some time alone with Jaekyung.

Jaekyung shoots Wonwoo a reassuring smile as the latter disappears into the kitchen. Suddenly, a pair of arms wrap around Wonwoo, and he chuckles, hugging his mom back.

“My baby is going to be a prince!” She says, “I mean, I’m not surprised, but I’m happy that it finally happened!” She squeals, and Wonwoo smiles. “Not surprised?"

Her mother grins. “I mean, I was sure you would end up marrying Mingyu-yah, hahah."

Wonwoo’s heart thrums. He swallows, not letting his smile falter. Mom continues, “But this way, you’ll be the king consort as well! My baby will be well taken care of,” she hugs him.

Wonwoo swallows. King Consort, huh?

That title carries a lot of weight.

Mom pulls away. “Mingyu must be thrilled!” She says, and Wonwoo licks his lips, “I guess."

Mom picks up on the nervousness in Wonwoo’s tone and asks, "What's wrong?"

Wonwoo takes a deep breath and says, "It's nothing. We just had a small fight. I haven’t spoken to him since. He’s never home.

Every day, Wonwoo gathers the courage to talk to Mingyu. But he doesn’t see the man in his classes or at the dorm. He only hears him stroll into the dorm at odd hours, carrying the unpleasant scent of alcohol on him. Wonwoo’s given up now.

“I’m sure it’s nothing you guys can’t resolve. You’ll feel better once you speak to him, Won-ah. Sharing your joy with Mingyu would only increase it tenfold, right?” She cups his cheek, and Wonwoo can’t help but smile.

He supposes he can try once more.

“Honey! Go grab the old albums! Jaekyung wants to see!” Dad says from the dining room, and Mom giggles, "Coming!"

She shoots Wonwoo a small smile and hurries off, leaving Wonwoo to contemplate. He sighs and grabs his phone, opening his kakaotalk with Mingyu. A quick scroll shows that their conversations have been reduced to small phrases and single syllables. And the last time they chatted was two weeks ago. Wonwoo swallows.

He types out a quick message.

‘Let’s talk. I’ll wait for you at home'.

❀❀❀❀

Jaekyung intercepts Wonwoo just as he exits his office.

“Hey,” Jaekyung says, holding Wonwoo’s waist. “What are we having for lunch?” he asks. Wonwoo swallows, ignoring the way Jaekyung’s acting. Since when does he care about having lunch together?

“Ah, I already ate, Hyung. I’m on my way to the hospital right now. I’ve got some work,” he says, and Jaekyung’s expression falls. “Ah, I see. Are you going to meet Jeonghan there?"

Wonwoo smiles. Jaekyung is oddly cautious of Jeonghan. Well, nothing odd about that. Jeonghan has that effect on people.

“Probably,” Wonwoo says. He has to pester Jeonghan some more about a favor.

Jaekyung sighs as they reach the elevator. “Alright. I’ll see you at dinner."

Wonwoo hesitates, and Jaekyung’s eyes widen. “You won’t be home for dinner?"

Wonwoo smiles, shaking his head. “Sorry, Hyung,” he says, pressing a kiss on Jaekyung‘s cheek. I’ll see you tomorrow morning, okay? I’ve picked out your suit for you. Also, please prepare your speech for the wedding,” he says as he steps into the elevator.

Jaekyung groans. “Alright,” he says as the elevator doors close. Wonwoo smiles one last time before the doors close completely and he’s out of Jaekyung’s sight. He sighs in relief.

Alright. He can hurry over now.

“You can leave for the day,” Wonwoo instructs his bodyguard as he steps out of his car. The man bows and shuts the door, but he doesn’t leave just yet.

“Your Royal Highness, a Lee Beomseok-ssi has requested to meet you,” he informs, and Wonwoo’s eyes widen. Beomseok-ssi?

“Ah,” he checks the time on his watch. “Arrange a meeting tomorrow, after the ceremony. Until then, ensure he has a room and is looked after, yes?"

The man nods and bows once again. “As you wish, Your Royal Highness,” he says. Wonwoo smiles and walks into the villa, watching his car leave behind him. Once gone, he opens the door and walks in, sighing that his parents had not heeded his warnings about locking their front door.

He kicks off his shoes and loosens his tie, but he’s far from relaxed.

“Mom? Dad? Where are you guys?” He calls as he walks down the hallway, “How many times have I told you guys to keep the front door locked? Why is it open?” he says, turning into the living room, finding his dad on the sofa, reading a book.

“Dad, I’m home,” Wonwoo says, and Dad looks up, previously far too engrossed in the book to notice Wonwoo.

“Wonwoo-yah!” He rejoices as Wonwoo pats his shoulder and asks, "How are you, Dad?"

“Is that Wonwoo?” His mother calls from the kitchen, and Wonwoo smiles, walking over to meet her. From here, he can smell his mom’s brownie batter. It might be an exaggeration, but her brownies are the best. Wonwoo doesn’t have a sweet tooth, but he will never say no to her brownie.

But a gasp leaves his lips when he sees a taller figure standing next to his mom, clad in a flowery apron.

“Mingyu?” Wonwoo asks, and the man turns around, a whisk and a bowl in his hands.

Mingyu smiles. “Hey, Won,” he greets as his mom walks over to him, hugging him tightly. “Wonwoo-yah! You’re home!” she says, but Wonwoo’s eyes are glued to Mingyu.

Mingyu, whisking the batter in the bowl, walks over to Wonwoo, dipping a finger in it and pushing it against Wonwoo’s lips. “Taste it and tell me if the salt is alright,”’

Wonwoo keeps his lips pursed, letting the batter smear his lips. Mingyu exhales and pulls his finger away, swiping the batter with his thumb and licking it off, eliciting a gasp from Wonwoo and a bright blush.

"You," he decides to scold Mingyu, but the latter laughs, “what?"

Wonwoo seals his lips and looks down at his mother. “What is he doing here?"

She frowns. “Wonwoo-yah, that’s rude. Mingyu came to see us after so many years!"

Wonwoo glares at Mingyu, who pours the batter into a tray. "He's been so rude to me, Mom,” he complains, and Mom hums, crossing her arms. “Is that true?"

Wonwoo gulps, “Mom, it’s because he—“ He stops himself midway, and Mingyu cocks a brow. Wonwoo takes a deep breath. He walks over to the brownie tray, dips a finger in, and smears the batter on Mingyu’s cheek. “Indidiot,” he mutters before exiting the kitchen with an intense blush on his cheeks, leaving Mingyu with a startled expression.

He hears Mingyu and his mom laugh, and for some reason, a smile appears on his face.

❀❀❀❀

When Wonwoo gets back to the dorm room, he isn’t surprised to see it empty.

Mingyu’s not here yet again.

Wonwoo just sighs. He stares at Mingyu’s unkempt bed and exhales, settling down on his and pulling his legs against his chest.

He opens his chat with Mingyu. It’s been an hour, and Mingyu hasn’t responded yet.

‘We need to talk,’ Wonwoo sends another message and puts his phone down, looking out the window at the street below.

He takes a deep breath, and his lids begin to feel heavy. Within the blink of an eye, another hour passes, and Wonwoo remains seated in that same position.

He’s determined to set things right this time, by hook or crook. He needs to talk to Mingyu and resolve whatever this is.

But even an hour later, there is no reply, nor is there any indication of Mingyu.

Wonwoo stares at his phone as the clock strikes 3.

One more message, and that will be the end of Wonwoo’s efforts.

He types in a message quickly and returns to looking out the window, his eyes fluttering shut. He wonders if the last message will prompt Mingyu to come back from wherever he is.

Wonwoo’s just about to doze off when he sees a figure out on the street, sprinting towards the building. Wonwoo’s brain slowly registers the fact that it’s Mingyu, who looks like he’s in a hurry. Wonwoo sighs, blinking away his sleep. He stretches as footsteps echo in the corridor and the door slams open, revealing Mingyu, who leans against the door frame to catch his breath.

Wonwoo just stares at him, taking in his appearance. It’s been a while since he last saw Mingyu. His eyes are sunken, and his hair is a tad bit longer now.

“What does this mean?” That is what Mingyu asks after catching his breath. Wonwoo purses his lips. “You know what it means,” he murmurs as Mingyu closes the door behind him. “We need to talk,” he recites the message, “it’s my last day in the dorm."

Wonwoo swallows.

“What do you mean it’s your last day?!” Mingyu questions, and Wonwoo exhales, “I’m engaged now. I’m moving in to the palace,” he explains.

Mingyu’s eyes widen.

“Why…why didn’t you tell me…?” Mingyu asks, and Wonwoo scoffs, “If you were around, I’d have told you. But…"

Mingyu winces, a pang of guilt stabbing his heart.

“We need to talk." Wonwoo speaks up, and Mingyu exhales, taking a seat on his bed. He rubs his face with his palms. “About what?"

Wonwoo clenches his fists, “about the way you’ve been behaving these days, about how you’ve been treating me ever since I started seeing Jae."

Mingyu scoffs, “Sorry for whatever I did, okay?"

Wonwoo knows Mingyu doesn’t mean it, and it enrages him further.

“You’re not sorry! You don’t care! Your best friend is getting married, and all you do is go to parties and get drunk."Wonwoo says, and Mingyu huffs, as if he can’t believe Wonwoo’s words.

“Well, if my best friend was around, I wouldn’t have to hang out at parties to have fun!” Mingyu defends.

Wonwoo gulps the knot in his throat. “You’re unbelievable, Kim Mingyu."

“Just what do you want from me?!” Mingyu asks.

“I want you to be happy for me!"

"Well, I can’t do that!” Mingyu yells, and then silence engulfs them. Their eyes lock in silent confusion, and before Wonwoo can try to figure out the meaning, Mingyu lowers his gaze and says, “I’m sorry, okay? "I shouldn’t have acted this way."

Wonwoo blinks. This time, Mingyu does sound sincere.

"Yes" is all he can say. He’s forgotten everything he’d prepared for this talk. He doesn’t know how to proceed.

Mingyu huffs and runs a hand through his hair. “So, what now? Am I supposed to call you Hyeongnim?” He asks, and Wonwoo doesn’t appreciate the sarcastic tone. He swallows, “If custom dictates, then..."

Mingyu looks up and says, "If custom dictates, You sound exactly like them, hahahaha."

Wonwoo fists his hands. “And why is that a bad thing?"

Mingyu laughs, “Ah, you haven’t married yet, and you’re already a royal, hm? Must feel nice, eh?"

Wonwoo frowns. “And what is that supposed to mean?"

He doesn’t like his tone or what he’s implying. Mingyu shrugs. “You think you’re above me just because you’re getting married to my brother, eh? You think you can treat me the way they’ve treated me all my life?!"

Wonwoo gasps. Mingyu’s words feel like an accusation.

“What? I never—"

“Save it, Hyeongnim,” Mingyu emphasizes on the last part, mockingly saying, “welcome to the family!” He says this, patting Wonwoo’s shoulder.

Wonwoo's been rendered silent. He doesn’t know how to respond. Mingyu walks past Wonwoo, but the latter grabs his wrist and asks, "Where are you going, Min-ah?"

But Mingyu sways his hand away. “Remember, we’re not friends anymore, Hyeongnim,” he says coldly. “You’re one of them now."

And with that, Mingyu walks out the door, and Wonwoo finally lets a tear trickle down his cheek.

Notes:

3 more chapters to go! I’ve finalised it all haha, can’t keep dragging it on too much hehe.

Chapter 7: Checkmate?

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

The silly sight of a big man in a flower themed apron and mittens makes Wonwoo look away and smile. He chuckles to himself as his Mom takes a seat beside him, holding his hand, “Wonwoo-yah, we’re so glad you came. We’ve missed you,”

Wonwoo smiles and kisses her cheek, “I missed you too, Mom,” he says, taking a deep breath. It’s been a while since he visited them. Months, actually. He’s just been so busy with so many things and….

“How are the wedding preparations coming along?” Dad chimes in, and Wonwoo’s smile falls. His parents weren’t invited. Something about the ceremony being reserved for the Royal lineage or….

It was the Queen’s decision.

But it’s Wonwoo who feels guilty.

“Good,” he replies curtly, unwilling to talk about it further. His parents haven’t said anything and perhaps, it’s better that way.

Mom caresses his cheek, smiling through her wrinkles, “You’ve grown skinny, Won-ah. Haven’t you been eating well?”

Wonwoo’s heart flickers and he leans in to her touch, “just busy, Mom,” he says, reveling in the warmth of her palm.

How long has it been since he…

Wonwoo closes his eyes, “has dad been taking his medication?” He lowers his voice a tad bit. His Mom nods, “every day,” she smiles.

Wonwoo gulps.

“Mom, from next month, the money transfers will come through Seungkwan’s account, okay?” Wonwoo whispers and she frowns, “why?”

“There’s an issue with my bank. So until that is resolved, you’ll get notifications from Seungkwan’s account, okay? Don’t freak out,” he says and Mom nods, “okay, I get it,” she says, squeezing his hand, “is….everything okay, baby?”

Wonwoo lowers his gaze, unsure of why those words affect him so deeply. He squeezes his Mom’s hand, looking up with a smile, hoping his eyes don’t tell a different story, “I’m fine, Mom,”

“Are you sure?”

Of course she sees through his lies. That’s what moms do.

Wonwoo wishes he could spill the beans. He wishes he could lay his head on her lap and tell her everything, cry in her arms and curl up beside her for the night. But he’s not a child anymore. His parents aren’t young anymore. He can’t burden them with his woes. Not when they had high hopes rising on his marriage, not when he impulsively said yes to a marriage with Jaekyung, not when he got himself into this mess of a union… not when his parents think their son is taken care of in his new home. That he’s settled and well adjusted.

He can’t tell them that apart from drowning himself in service and charity, he isn’t fulfilled on any other ends.

His prolonged silence prompts his Mom to speak up, “hey, Won—“

“Wonwoo-yah, can you help me here?” says Mingyu’s voice from the kitchen. In a split second, Wonwoo springs to his feet and walks over to Mingyu, preventing his tears from spilling in front of his parents.

“What do you want me to do?” Wonwoo asks, mindlessly grabbing an apron. He keeps his gaze lowered, turning around only to run into Mingyu. He halts, too scared to look up and match Mingyu’s eyes.

“Won,” Mingyu calls softly and Wonwoo clenches his fists, “it’s Hyeongnim,” he corrects but Mingyu grabs Wonwoo’s wrist, right at first but loosening as Wonwoo stops resisting.

“I don’t like calling you that,” Mingyu says, his voice a mere whisper. Wonwoo gulps nervously, “whether you like it or not, you have to call me that, Mingyu,”

Mingyu smiles, “then you should stop responding when I call you by your name,”

Wonwoo’s lips part in a small gasp and Mingyu steps away from him, his warmth leaving him.

“Won?”

“Yeah?” Wonwoo looks up instinctively, and Mingyu smiles fondly. Realizing, Wonwoo clears his throat, “what..did you need help with?”

Mingyu shrugs, “nothing. Let's go eat,” he says, grabbing the pot and walking out the kitchen, leaving Wonwoo to ponder whether Mingyu did that to help Wonwoo save his face in front of his parents.

“We were so worried about you, Mingyu-yah!” Mom says, pinching Mingyu’s cheek. Mingyu hisses but ends up laughing, “it’s not like I was kidnapped, Mom!”

Wonwoo cheekily smiles as he watches the two interact. He glances at his dad, who is beginning to space out. Wonwoo swallows and brings his attention back to Mingyu and Mom.

“I know! But you just disappeared overnight! Do you know how worried Wonwoo was?”

Wonwoo chokes, “no, that’s not—“ he tries to deny it but Mingyu’s already smirking at him, brows raised in amusement. Wonwoo averts his gaze, cheeks warm.

“Ah, Hyeongnim, you were worried?” Mingyu asks, teasing. Wonwoo licks his lips, “…don’t call me that,” he whispers and Mingyu chuckles.

“Look at you two, bickering like the old days,” Mom nudges Wonwoo, and he just smiles.

“So, Mingyu-yah, what did you do?” Dad finally speaks up, and Wonwoo wonders if Mingyu will dodge the question. But he doesn’t.

“I started a company. Semiconductors,” he says. Wonwoo’s brows raise, “oh? Lucrative business,” Dad comments, “it’s nice to know you’ve taken care of yourself, Mingyu-yah,”

Mingyu smiles, “Thank you. I’m based in Ireland,”

Wonwoo smiles. Mingyu wanted to go as far away as possible from here, from his celebrity status and recognition. Mingyu probably thought these things out a great deal and…left.

Wonwoo swallows.

“It’s good you’re back now, Mingyu-yah. My Wonwoo won’t be lonely anymore,” Mom smiles and Wonwoo exhales. His mom says … such stuff.

Wonwoo glances at Mingyu, surprised to see the other man already looking at him, not with a teasing smirk but a somber smile.

It compels Wonwoo to lower his gaze.

Rest of the dinner passes uneventfully.

❀❀❀❀

For the first time in months, it’s not Mingyu’s face Wonwoo sees upon waking up. It’s Jaekyung.

Wonwoo gulps, sitting up as a smile adorns his face at the sight of his slumbering fiancé. But it’s bittersweet because he is used to seeing Mingyu’s face on the other bed, by the other end of the wall.

Wonwoo takes a deep breath and looks around the palatial room, so unused to it all. This…is going to be his home now.

Wonwoo catches a glimpse of the clock on the wall. 8:50 am. He stretches and is about to slide off the bed when a hand yanks him back under the covers, and lips attack his face, kissing him. Wonwoo giggles, “Good morning, Hyung,” he says and Jae grumbles sleepily, wrapping his arms around him, “don’t go, sleep,” he says and Wonwoo laughs.

He allows himself to fall back to sleep once again.

—

“You’re late,” the Queen says when Wonwoo and Jaekyung enter the dining hall.

Wonwoo freezes, “Ah, I’m sorry, Jangmonim. We overslept,” he says as Jaekyung takes his seat. The Queen stares Wonwoo down, like he’d committed a crime. They’re only 10 minutes late. Wonwoo glances at Taehyung, who shoots him a smile but seems just as helpless.

“This mistake mustn’t be repeated. Understand?” She warns and goes back to eating her breakfast, leaving Wonwoo to bow and take a seat beside Jaekyung. Wonwoo sighs. It’s only day one and he’s messed up already.

“It’s just 10 minutes, Mom,” Taehyung chimes in and she glares at him, “don’t encourage tardy behavior like this, Taehyung-ah. You’ll never be a King but you ought to act like one regardless,”

Wonwoo feels bad now, looking up at Taehyung with somber eyes. But the older man just smiles and shakes his head, reassuring him.

So, their meals are going to be this tense, eh?

“You will be marrying into the royal family now. You ought to dress better,” the Queen says and Wonwoo looks up at her and then at his clothes. Ah, this sweater and those trousers are the only “formal” clothes he has. He’s a university student after all.

“Take my card, love. Buy yourself something,” Jaekyung intervenes and Wonwoo smiles, “Thank you, I—“

“Jaekyung, you mustn’t coddle him like that. You accompany him and regulate the spending,” she instructs. Wonwoo tongues his cheek, gaze lowered.

Wonwoo was going to decline, anyway. He has money from his part time job, and from investments he made in stocks and mutual funds long ago. Does the Queen think Wonwoo’s a leech?

“Yes, Mom,” Jaekyung says, unbothered.

Wonwoo exhales.

Well, it’s not like he can talk back to the Queen anyway. Jaekyung is just as helpless as Wonwoo.

“Today, I will familiarize you with how things work around here. After breakfast, follow me,” The Queen instructs and Wonwoo nods, “Okay, Jangmonim,”

And thankfully, after that, chatter dies down. The four of them eat their breakfast in silence.

But peace is soon disrupted by the arrival of another family member.

When the door opens, Mingyu casually strolls in, 20 minutes late to breakfast, his hair unkempt and clothes unironed. Like he just woke up. Wonwoo tenses as Mingyu yawns and settles by the table.

Yeah. Mingyu’s back to living in the Palace as well.

The Queen watches her youngest son with angry eyes, her fists clenching.

“Have you even brushed your teeth?” she asks, disdain smeared all over her words. Mingyu shrugs, “no,” he replies callously and Wonwoo purses his lips. He can see the way the Queen seethes. Not to forget the district smell of alcohol that Mingyu carries on his body.

“When did you come back last night?” The Queen asks as Mingyu chugs down orange juice, smacking his lips and turning to look at her, eyes sunken and sleepless, “5 am,”

Why…

Why is Mingyu doing this?

He knows the Queen will be upset so why?

“Disgusting,” she mutters under her breath, “good for nothing brat,” she says, dabbing her lips with her napkin and standing up, “always causing trouble,” she says and storms away.

Mingyu just smirks as Taehyung watches his youngest brother with concerned eyes. Wonwoo swallows and Jaekyung does nothing, enjoying his meal.

“Wonwoo, come,” the Queen says and Wonwoo gasps, “Ah, I haven’t finished eating,” he says softly. But that doesn’t seem to appeal to her. Her eyes darken in anger and Wonwoo stands up, “excuse me,” he says and quickly follows her out the door, but not before turning around and sneaking a glance at Mingyu.

Seeing his hunched over back fills Wonwoo’s heart with sorrow. But perhaps, there’s nothing he can do about it anymore.

❀❀❀❀

“Wonwoo-yah, it’s time for our medication. You guys continue to eat, okay? We’ll be in our bedroom,” Mom says and ruffles Wonwoo’s hair, tugging Dad up with her other hand.

Dad just grumbles and follows her, leaving Mingyu alone with Wonwoo. The atmosphere is both tense and comfortable.

Wonwoo sneaks a glance at Mingyu’s plate — empty. If it’s empty, he should leave. But he doesn't. He sits there, toying with a grain of rice as Wonwoo eats his dinner. He’s always been a slow eater.

“Ireland, huh,” Wonwoo speaks up and Mingyu smiles, “Yes. It’s beautiful,”

Wonwoo nods, “that’s great. I’m glad it worked out for you, Mingyu-yah,”

Mingyu hums, “it’s because I got out of that family,”

Wonwoo freezes. He looks up at Mingyu, and the man just blinks, “it’s for the best that your parents don’t know how you are in that house. But I wish you have a friend to confide in,”

Wonwoo clenches his jaw, slightly annoyed by Mingyu’s words.

“I do,” Wonwoo bites, “he’s getting married tomorrow,” he grumbles and Mingyu chuckles, “yeah, and he’s leaving the house for good, as well,”

Wonwoo swallows, it finally dawning on him.

Yeah.

Taehyung’s going to be gone.

“It’s just going to be you, Jae and Mom,” Mingyu adds and Wonwoo looks up, “you?”

Mingyu matches his gaze, smile fading, “you want me there?”

Wonwoo licks his lips, lowering his gaze, “as you said, a friend…”

Mingyu smiles, “I’m sorry but I don’t see you as a friend, Won,” and a gasp escapes Wonwoo’s lips. He looks up shyly, face dumb and blushing as he locks gaze with Mingyu.

There’s sincerity in those words that makes Wonwoo’s heart race.

Wonwoo averts his gaze, “you realize you’re hitting on your brother-in-law, right?”

Mingyu stretches, “exciting, isn’t it?” He jokes and Wonwoo can’t help but scoff amusedly. When their eyes meet, their lips pull into wide grins.

When Wonwoo’s with Mingyu, he doesn’t understand himself or Mingyu. But it makes him want to stay nonetheless.

“Wonwoo-yah, come up here,” Mom calls from upstairs and Wonwoo sighs, “coming!” He grabs his dish and deposits it in the kitchen sink.

Mingyu walks ahead of him, “let’s go, Wonwoo-yah,” he turns around and winks, voiced laced with delight.

Wonwoo smiles and silently follows.

—

When the car comes to a halt, Mingyu opens the door and steps out in a hurry, leaving Wonwoo confused because he didn’t look like he had anywhere he needed to be just moments ago.

But his questions are answered when his car door opens to reveal Mingyu, a little out of breath. Wonwoo giggles and steps out, “this is too much,” he murmurs and Mingyu shrugs, closing the door behind him, “For Hyeongnim, nothing is too much,”

Wonwoo nudges Mingyu softly, smiling at the man as they walk into the palace.

How long has it been since Wonwo felt so at ease? Because all he’s been feeling for the last six years is anxiety. He’s never once been at ease, he’s never once found peace in the place he’s obligated to call home. But with Mingyu here, it’s all so….

“Why are you two together?” a voice calls and Wonwoo halts, looking up to see Jaekyung approaching them, dressed casually in a robe. His eyes shift suspiciously between him and MIngyu, and Wonwoo steps in front of Mingyu, smiling brightly at his husband, “Hey, how was your day?” he asks, taking Jaekyung’s hands and leaning in to kiss him, momentarily distracting him from the man behind him.

Jaekynug smiles pleasantly, “You’re back early,” he says, eyes darting to Mingyu behind Wonwoo, “did you run into him outside?”

Wonwoo decides to run along with it, smiling, “Ah, yes. We saw each other outside. Have you eaten?” he tries to brush it off and thankfully, Jaekyung lets it go, “lets go to bed, hm? Big day tomorrow. I’ve taken care of all the remaining preparations,” he says, thumbs rubbing circles in Wonwoo’s knuckles, and Wonwoo seems to understand the intent behind them. Jaekyung’s dark and expectant eyes bore holes into Wonwoo’s face but the latter just smiles, squeezing his hands softly, “Okay, let’s go,” he says, tugging at Jaekyung’s hands and walking past him but the man remains cemented in his place, eyes glued onto Mingyu, who refuses to lower his gaze, electric gaze directed at Jaekyung.

No.

No, no this is the last thing –

Jaekyung lets go of Wonwoo’s hand, “Love, wait for me in our room, hm?” he winks and turns to look at Mingyu, “I have to speak to my brother,”

Wonwoo gulps, shooting a nervous glance at Mingyu who only seems amused by Jaekyung’s words. But Wonwoo knows there is not much he can do in this situation. He takes a deep breath and walks away, praying to God things don't escalate into something ugly.

❀❀❀❀

After what feels like eternity, Wonwoo is finally back in their room, falling back onto the bed and sighing out of relief. He can't bring himself to open his eyes and sleep begins to take over his body.

He has been on his feet all day, learning the royal ways and interacting with eminent personalities the Queen deemed must know of his alliance with Jaekyung before anyone else. Oddly enough, Wonwoo’s cheeks hurt as well – from all the smiling. Wonwoo’s never smiled so much in his entire life. He didn't know smiling could be so…..draining.

Keeping up pretenses is not his forte.

But perhaps the worst part of it all was that he was constantly accompanied by the Queen, and also vehemently criticized and corrected about everything.

Stand straight.

Don't eat it like that.

Bow to them.

Don't bow to them.

Shake their hands.

Smile.

Smile genuinely.

You smile too much.

Wonwoo opens his eyes, taking deep breaths. Maybe once he learns the ways of this house, things will get better. He understands that there is a way for the Royals to present themselves so the Queen’s feelings are understandable. Wonwoo should be a little more considerate.

He exhales softly as his mind begins to wander.

Is this how Mingyu grew up?

But he’s so….cheerful. Does it not drain him? Perhaps it does. But never once did he let Wonwoo realize it. But Mingyu…..he’s different now. He goes to bed late, he wakes up late. He does nothing all day and parties all night. He reeks of alcohol, constantly. He’s changed drastically. Taehyung worries for him whilst his Mother’s disdain for him only deepens. Jaekyung has been indifferent for the most part. But the overall result has been Mingyu’s ostracisation. He doesn't speak to anyone in the house. Not even Wonwoo, whom he now treats like a stranger. And even when Wonwoo sets aside his self-respect to reach out to him, he’s encouraged not to.

‘It’s a phase, he’ll be fine,’ the Queen had said.

Wonwoo sighs, sleep taking over his lids. But he sits up when he hears the door open, on instinct. But fortunately, it's just Jaekyung, returning from the Office. He’s being groomed to take over the company next year.

Wonwoo smiles, worry momentarily leaving his body at the sight of his lover, “Hey,” he greets the man who kicks off his shoes and groans, stretching the fatigue out of his muscles. Jae must be tired as well.

“How was your day?” Jae smiles regardless, climbing onto the bed and crawling over to Wonwoo, hugging him. Wonwoo chuckles, allowing himself to be pulled to the bed, enveloped in his warm embrace. It relaxes Wonwoo, makes him even more sleep than he already is.

“Tiring. I didn't know there were so many rules,” Wonwoo says, testing the waters. He's not sure if he can vent to Jae without the latter considering it an attack on his Mother. Wonwoo doesn't intend it that way.

Jae hums, “Once you're officially a Prince, you'll be fine,” he reassures, kissing Wonwoo’s neck. Wonwoo smiles, letting himself believe Jae’s words, “Perhaps. You look tired. I am too. Lets just sleep,” he says, snuggling in against Jae.

But Jae pulls him close, pressing his lips firmly onto Wonwoo’s skin, trailing kisses down his neck. Wonwooo swallows, turning around, “hey, I’m tired,” he says softly and Jae stops, sighing as he lets go of Wonwoo and turns to lie on his back, “fine,”

Wonwoo purses his lips, feeling a little guilty. He decides to stop resisting.

He crawls over Jae, straddling his hips, “Okay…but just a little,” he says, blushing, rolling his hips into Jaekyung’s. The older man smiles and leans up to kiss Wonwoo.

❀❀❀❀

“Sit,” Jaekyung says when he and Mingyu walk into the living room, palatial as other rooms, dimly lit since most residents have retired to their rooms to catch a wink before the big day tomorrow.

Mingyu arches a brow and settles down on the chair, watching Jaekyung sit across from him. Mingyu sighs casually, looking around the place he grew up in, the place he once called home yet feels so unwelcome in, even now, as he sits across from his biological brother.

“How was your day?” Jaekyung asks, and Mingyu brings his eyes to him, watching as the man moves a pawn on the chessboard open on the table between them. Jaekyung looks up, something incomprehensible in his eyes.

Mingyu takes a deep breath and decides to indulge his big brother, studying the placement of the chess pieces before moving his knight, “Boring,”

Jaekyung hums, an uncomfortable smile on his face, “Ah, are you not enjoying your stay in Korea?” he moves his knight as well, making Mingyu scoff.

“Not really. The people here aren't….” he plays his pawn, “....very nice,” he looks up at Jaekyung, noting the uncanny twitches on his face, like he’s forcing himself to smile.

Of course he is.

“Ah, I see. WHen are you leaving?” Jae asks, using his knight to take out Mingyu’s pawn. Mingyu hums, “why?” he brings out another pawn and Jaekyung smiles, moving his pawn as well, “Am I not allowed to know? Come on, I’m your brother,” he laughs and Mingyu chuckles, “that you are,” he says, moving his queen.

Jae’s eyes widen and he mirrors his move, bringing his queen out into the field, “So?”

Mingyu looks up and smiles, moving his knight closer to Jaekyung’s king, “Soon. You don't have to be so insecure about me wanting the throne, Hyung. There are other things im interested in,”

Jaekyung clenches his jaw, furthering his queen to Mingyu’s king now that there’s an opening. He smiles, “And what might those be?” he asks and Mingyu laughs, “i think you already have an idea,” he says, taking out a pawn. Jaekyung swallows, growing distressed by the minute as Mingyu inches closer to his King.

“You….” Jaekyung drops the friendly facade, “why were you with Wonwoo today?” he asks, anger evident in his voice. He moves his king away from Mingyu’s knight.

“Like he said, we ran into each other outside and walked in together. Do you not trust your husband, Hyung?” Mingyu asks, moving his bishop all the way across the board. Jaekyung gasps, wondering when Mingyu freed that bishop.

“I…it's you I don't trust,” Jaekyung pulls a pawn out to free his rook, “but Wonwoo would never cheat. He has far too much to lose,” he chuckles and looks up at Mingyu, who doesn't show an ounce of amusement. Their eyes lock for a brief moment before Mingyu lowers his gaze and moves his bishop. Jaekyung grins and takes the bishop out with his rook, feeling triumphant. Mingyu says, “what does he have to lose, exactly?” he moves his second bishop, and Jaekyung laughs, knocking it down with a pawn, “If he cheats on me, his life will become living hell,”

Mingyu moves his queen towards Jaekyung as the latter continues, “He will lose respect in the society, no one else will marry him – not to mention his parents. They wouldn't be able to take it. And his name will be immortalized as a cheater, and not the People’s Prince,” he says haughtily, moving his Queen towards Mingyu’s King.

Jaekyung looks up at Mingyu with arrogant eyes, only to gasp when he sees silent rage in the younger’s eyes. But Jaekyung doesn't let him faze him.

“Play,” he says and Mingyu lowers his gaze, eyes shifting across the board, as if calculating his moves. Mingyu smiles, moving his pawn, “It must kill you that Wonwoo’s the People’s Prince and not you, right?”

Jaekyung’s smile drops, “what?”

Mingyu grins, gaze flickering to the board as if telling jaekyung to play. The older man move a piece around and MIngyu takes a deep breath, playing a move as well, “You've always wanted to be a Prince, to be King. But you end up marrying someone more capable, someone more compassionate, someone more deserving of the people’s love, someone who takes all the attention away from you, hm? You quite literally dug your own grave, hm?”

Jaekyung gasps, clenching his fists. He swallows and moves a piece, eager to grab Mingyu’s Queen that’s approaching his King. but Mingyu seems hardly affected by the move and simply smiles, “and if it weren't for Wonwoo letting you leech off of his achievements, of his charity and of his deeds, you wouldn't be half as loved as you are today. DOnt you agree?” MIngyu smirks, moving his chess pieces. And all Jaekyung sees is red, rage bubbling inside him. He moves his piece as well, eager to nab that Queen.

“Perhaps, maybe Wonwoo will see that and choose to leave you instead. That way, he will still be the People’s Prince, eh? Meanwhile, you'll remain the bastard the Prince moved on from,” Mingyu says and Jaekyung slams his hand on the table. He grabs Mingyu’s collar, yanking him closer, “You– how dare you!!”

Mingyu doesn't break eye contact. He refuses to let himself be intimidated by the likes of his brother anymore. He just laughs, watching as Jaekyung’s tough exterior crumbles in the face of indifference. Mingyu frees himself from Jaekyung and leans back in his seat, dusting his clothes as Jaekyung stares daggers at him, stunned by Mingyu’s reaction, or lack thereof.

“Ah, Hyung,” Mingyu cleans his throat, “you were so focused on protecting your King that you neglected your Queen,” he says. Jaekyung gasps, eyes dropping down to the chessboard and how Mingyu grabs his King and places it next to Jae's Queen.

Mingyu looks up and smiles, “My King takes your Queen,” he says.

Jaekyung just stares at the chessboard, unable to process what had just happened. This isn't a checkmate but somehow, it feels like he’s lost.

Mingyu chuckles and stands up, walking past Jae, patting his back, “let's continue this later, hm?”

And with that done, he leaves Jaekyung alone with his failure and his thoughts.

Notes:

Next chapter in 10 days!

Chapter 8: Graduation

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

“That brat,” Jaekyung curses under his breath as he storms back to his bedroom, fuming with rage. Kim Mingyu, that bastard – not only does he have the audacity to show up after causing so much trouble all those years ago, he also has the guts to rile him and Mom up like this.

All that kid knows is to resist.

Jaekyung pushes open the doors to his room and scans it quickly, hoping to find his husband but is met with nothing but a note on their bed. Still seething, he grabs the note and reads it,

‘Hey, I’ll be sleeping in my room tonight. Tomorrow is a big day and we need our rest. I’ll see you tomorrow morning, Honey,’

Jaekyung scoffs, crumpling the note and tossing it to the side, falling back onto the bed. Even Wonwoo hasn't been cooperating lately. He’s been acting odd. Is it because Mingyu’s back? Is that where his resistance comes from as well? Because of Mingyu? Perhaps, they’re in cahoots.

Jaekyung sits up, further enraged by his own imagination. He’s about to spring to his feet and confront Wonwoo when his phone rings. And when his eyes land on the name on the screen, all anger seems to ooze out of his body. He exhales and answers the phone, a smile playing on his lips, “Hey, why are you calling so late?” he asks, walking over to bolt his door shut as a melodious voice replies, “just thinking about you, Oppa,”

Jaekyung grins, falling back on the bed as he takes a deep breath, “me too,” he chuckles, “I’ve missed you, Jiwoo-yah,” and the Omega on the other end giggles, like music to Jaekyung’s ears, “Aw, so soon? You’ll see me soon enough, Oppa,” she says and Jaekyung smirks, “Can’t wait,”

And as the conversation furthers, Jaekyung forgets all about his anger.

❀❀❀❀

“How many times do I have to tell you that you mustn’t speak to them before I do! There is an order of precedence!” the Queen yells at Wonwoo, who keeps his head lowered and fists clenched. He sneaks a glance at Taehyung, who, sadly, can only remain a silent bystander to it all.

“But he approached me first. It would've been rude to not reply,” Wonwoo says, attempting to lift his head and match her gaze but she scoffs, tossing her purse to the side, “Don't you dare talk back to me,”

Wonwoo keeps his head lowered and takes a deep breath. He cannot talk back to the Queen.

The Royal family has been, bit by bit, introducing Wonwoo as Jaekyung’s mate and the Prince Consort to certain members of the industry and other royals and descendants of Royalty. Today was one such event, catered specifically to Omegas.

The Queen continues, “and how many times have i told you not to dress like that?” she says, “You’re an Omega so act and present yourself like one. If you did, I wouldn't have to repeatedly correct people who assume you're an alpha, or worse, a beta,”

Wonwoo takes a look at his attire – a simple two-piece picked out for him by his Father.

“Taehyung will take you shopping. So please stop dressing in something so drab and dull. You're the Prince Consort. Take Jaekyung’s card, Taehyung-ah,” the Queen says. Taehyung nods as the Queen takes a second look at Wonwoo before turning around and walking away.

It's then that Wonwoo finally releases the breath he’d been holding, but he doesn't make an attempt to raise his head. He’s too embarrassed to look Taehyung in the eye. But he does raise his gaze to take a gander at Taehyung’s outfit – it fits his curves perfectly, and his body is smooth and delicate – unlike Wonwoo’s. Taehyung and Wonwoo are both dressed in neutrals but for some reason, Taehyung looks a lot more ...princely.

“Wonwoo-yah, we can go shopping tomorrow. I’ll ask Jae for his card,” Taehyung speaks up, voice filled with sympathy. Wonwoo shakes his head, “There is no need for that, Hyung,” he says, “I have my own card,”

Taehyung gulps, “Won–”

“Excuse me, First Prince,” Wonwoo bows and walls out of there with a heavy heart.

❀❀❀❀

Wonwoo sighs as he stares at his outfit for tomorrow. 6 years later, he is sure his Mother-in-law would approve of this. It’s flowy and light, not to forget pastel. While Wonwoo despises the fact that his wardrobe was so drastically changed upon his entry into this household, he must admit that he’s grown to like the plethora of styles that he was coerced to try and wear. He likes picking out clothes that flatter him now – of different colors and fits.

But no amount of pretty clothes can convince him to look at himself in the mirror. And hence, these clothes mostly rot in his closet, waiting to be picked. One day, Wonwoo promises himself, he will wear them to his heart’s content, thoroughly enjoy them. He wishes that day is soon.

But for now, he stares at his outfit in contemplation. Should he get another one? He walks over to his closet, picking out something else, in the process of which he happens upon a certain outfit, pearly white and decorated with crystals. Wonwoo pauses his actions and stares at the suit that is his wedding outfit, his stomach churning unpleasantly. Before any bitter memories make their way to his mind, he looks away and shuts the closet doors, taking deep breaths.

Perhaps he’ll just go with the outfit he already picked out. Wonwoo is about to go to his vanity and pick out some matching jewelry when someone knocks on his door.

With a frown on his face, wondering who it could be at this late hour, he walks over to the door and answers it, surprised to see Taehyung standing there, dressed in casuals.

Wonwoo opens the door completely, “Oh, Hyung, come in,” he lets the man in, who silently and nervously walks in, lips pursed and fingers fidgety. Wonwoo checks the time once again and turns to Taehyung who settles down on Wonwoo’s bed, “Hyung, you need to sleep. I don't know if you remember but youre getting married tomorrow,”

Taehyung chuckles, and Wonwoo’s relieved to see a smile on that nervous face. He takes a seat beside Taehyung, “is everything alright?” he asks and the older Omega looks up.

Wonwoo’s a recessive OMega and hence cannot perform the same functions as a dominant omega. Omegas and Alphas are able to smell each other’s emotions. If Wonwoo had that ability, he would probably be able to smell Taehyung’s nervousness.

Taehyung smiles reassuringly, “yeah, all good. Just cold feet, is all,”

Wonwoo’s eyes widen. For some reason, he assumed that Taehyung wouldn't have cold feet since he’s marrying the love of his life.

“Cold feet?”

Taehyung shakes his head, “I mean, as glad as I am to finally get to leave this hell hole, there is a part of me that is afraid of the future,” his voice grows dull with each word. Wonwoo hums, patting Taehyung on the back, “worried about what, exactly?”

Taehyung shrugs, “I don't know,” he exhales, “in my head, I was marrying the man who loves me the most but now I'm beginning to realize that it's a…marriage. Its possibly the most important event of my life and Im glad its with Jungkook but–”

“Fear of the unknown, Hyung,” Wonwoo cuts him off, making Taehyung turn to him, “huh?”

Wonwoo purses his lips, “you don't know what the future holds and that scares you. It’s completely normal,”

Taehyung blinks and swallows, “I guess,” he lowers his gaze to his hands resting in his lap, “with marriage come the obligations and responsibilities of marriage and ... .what if I'm not able to perform those?”

Wonwoo laughs, surprising Taehyung, “Hyung, Jungkook is marrying you not because he wants a husband but because he wants you, okay? He is marrying you because he loves you and not because …because marrying you is beneficial or logical. Do you understand what I'm saying?”

Taehyung licks his lips and smiles, giggling, “when you put it like that…”

Wonwoo chuckles, “it's not so bad, right?”

Taehyung shakes his head, laughing, “not at all,” and Wonwoo begins to laugh as well. The older omega places a hand on Wonwoo’s thigh, looking up at him as his laughter dies down. Wonwoo falls silent as well as Taehyung speaks up, “I just….how did you do it, Wonwoo-yah?”

Wonwoo frowns, “how did I do what?”

Taehyung gulps, “you…you were only 23 when you got married. How did you…survive here…how did you become the …ideal husband that you are? How…did you keep yourself together?”

Wonwoo’s eyes widen, locked into Taehyung’s. For a few moments, there is only silence. And then, Wonwoo speaks up, “I…..I had a friend on the inside who looked after me through highs and lows,” he says, squeezing Taehyung’s hand softly. A soft gasp escapes Taehyung’s as realization dawns upon him. His expression softens and his eyes moisten. He pulls Wonwoo in for a tight hug, “I’ll miss you so much, Wonwoo-yah,”

In his embrace, Wonwoo feels his eyes moisten and his heart swells. He hugs Taehyung back, holding back his tears, “me too, Hyung,” he tries not to let his voice crack. Taehyung pulls away and places a soft kiss on Wonwoo’s forehead, smiling at him. Wonwoo swallows, staring at Taehyung’s face, “thank you for everything, Hyung,” he says and Taehyung flashes him a boxy smile, cupping his cheeks, “Aww, is Wonwoo crying?” he teases as Wonwoo sniffles, shaking his head, “no!” he says and Taehyung laughs.

“I feel a lot better now, thanks to you, Wonwoo-yah,” Taehyung says and Wonwoo smiles, “I’m glad,”

“Plus, i won't be alone there, right? Ill have Jungkookie,” Taehyung smiles, “if your partner is with you, I’m sure it’ll be fine, right?”

Wonwoo pauses, letting the words slowly sink into his brain. Unfortunately, Wonwoo’s never had the privilege of experiencing that. Regardless, he smiles, “Yup,”

Taehyung grins and stands up, stretching, “Ah, I miss him now,” he says, “should I call him?”

Wonwoo shrugs, “you should. Im sure he has cold feet as well,”

Taehyung giggles, “probably. He doesn't say it out loud but I can always tell how he’s feeling,”

Wonwoo swallows thickly, thinking to himself, it must be nice having someone like that in your life.

“I’ll go now, Wonwoo-yah,” Taehyung says, “I’ll see you tomorrow morning,”

“Good night, Hyung,” Wonwoo says and Taehyung shoots him another smile before walking out the door.

❀❀❀❀

“Yeah, I’m fine, Mom,” Wonwoo says

“Are you sure? You don't sound so good, baby,” she says and Wonwoo purses his lips. Wonwoo had just stepped out to grab some fresh air and to get away from...the inside when his Mom called him.

“Just tired. I had to meet so many people today,” Wonwoo says, skipping out on the part where he was scolded for not being able to learn the royal etiquette and protocol quickly.

“Ah, you're a Prince now, Wonwoo-yah. Of course it will be hard. Imagine how hard it must've been for Mingyu,” she says and Wonwoo swallows. Yeah, Wonwoo understands now. Despite all of that, MIngyu was always cheerful and joyous.

Was.

Wonwoo hates that the cheerful and joyous Mingyu is something of the past now.

“But you chose this life, Wonwoo-yah. I know it’s hard but atleast, you’ll be happy, right?” Mom says and Wonwoo licks his lips, looking up at the Moon, “yeah,” he says, voice strained.

“Drink something warm before going to bed, okay, love? We’ll talk tomorrow,” she says and Wonwoo exhales, “goodnight, Mom,”

“Good night, love,”

And with that, she cuts the call, allowing Wonwoo to exhale defeatedly, shoulders sinking as he leans over the railing, looking down at the guards patrolling the walls.

Yeah.

Wonwoo chose this life.

He’s going to have to see it through.

He knows it's going to get better though. He will be okay. There is nothing to worry about.

Wonwoo straightens, and he turns around to head back in but gasps when he sees a silhouette by the entrance.

“Where are you running off to?” Wonwoo questions, and Mingyu, who looks like he wandered out to the balcony, saw Wonwoo and decided to run away, pauses. He turns around with a defeated sigh, “here to get some fresh air, what else?” the man shrugs, walking over to Wonwoo now that he’s been caught.

Wonwoo’s surprised at the fact that Mingyu chose to come stand by his side instead of walking away. Wonwoo considers this progress and tries not to let his heart race.

“So you weren't here trying to sneak out of the house again?” Wonwoo asks and Mingyu winces, shutting his eyes and cursing inwardly, “you knew, huh?”

Wonwoo smiles, “I saw you jump down a few times. I’m sure the Queen knows as well. That’s why there are Guards down there,”

Mingyu inhales and opens his eyes, “guess I’ll have to find another way to sneak out,”

“Or you could just stop sneaking out to go to those late night parties,” Wonwoo says more sharply than he’d intended to, instantly killing the playful nature of their conversation. Mingyu just stares at Wonwoo, who shakes his head, turning to Mingyu, “Mingyu–”

Mingyu just laughs, stepping away, “No, I get it. You’re worried about me. You're my brother-in-law, now, right?”

Wonwoo cannot miss the sarcasm dripping from his voice. He clenches his jaw, “it's unlike you, Mingyu-yah. You…hate those parties, you hate drinking till you cant walk. Why…why are you doing this?”

Mingyu huffs, “Forgive me for wanting to enjoy life. I’m sorry but not everyone can trade their 20s for married life,”

“What is that supposed to mean?!” Wonwoo’s quick to catch on and Mingyu stares him in the eyes, “you know what I mean,” he says in a low voice.

Wonwoo’s heart aches at those words, and he turns away from Mingyu, tears welling in his eyes. He’s had a shitty day, and he lied to his Mom, and just when he thought they were making progress – having an actual conversation after months – Wonwoo had to go ahead and ruin that too. Wonwoo hates himself. He can't do one thing right.

He hears MIngyu sigh and begin to walk away, and Wonwoo’s instinct kicks in at the cost of whatever self-respect he had, “The graduation, are you coming?”

Mingyu pauses and turns around, meeting Wonwoo’s hopeful gaze.

“Are you going?” he asks and Wonwoo swallows, “Yes,”

Mingyu’s features soften. He lowers his gaze, “why do you ask? If im coming,”

Wonwoo decides to be honest for once, “I want to graduate with my best friend,”

Mingyu’s eyes slightly widen and Wonwoo holds his breath, awaiting response. But alas, Mingyu turns around and walks away.

Wonwoo doesn't know what he did wrong.

❀❀❀❀

Wonwoo takes a deep breath, staring at the ceiling above. The sound of the ticking clock is all that accompanies him tonight.

It's always past 12 that Wonwoo slips into a state of mind where he decides to pull up memories like this and lament over them.

He should sleep.

He has a big day ahead.

He should get some rest or something might go wrong.

Nothing should go wrong tomorrow. It’s Taehyung’s wedding.

Wonwoo’s going to ensure it all goes smoothly.

And just as Wonwoo’s about to force himself to fall asleep, he hears a knock on the door. He sits up with a frown, calling out suspiciously, “who is it?”

There is silence for a second and then, he hears a whisper, “Wonwoo-yah, it’s me,” Taehyung says in a hushed voice. Wonwoo hops off the bed and runs over to the door, worried. Why is Taehyung here again? Did something happen? Is everything okay?

But when Wonwoo opens the door, he’s greeted not just by a seemingly drunk and tipsy Taehyung but also Jungkook and ... .Mingyu. Wonwoo’s eyes widen and he’s about to question this gathering when Taehyung grabs his arm and yanks him out of his room, “Wonwoo-yah~” he sing-songs, “Jungkookie snuck over because he missed me,” he giggles. Wonwoo looks at Jungkook, who seems tipsy as well. The man just blushes and hides his face in Mingyu’s shoulder, making the latter groan. It’s sweet that Jungkook snuck over but why are they drunk? And Mingyu?

“And you're here because?” Wonwoo asks Mingyu but its Taehyung who speaks up, “Jungkookie and I were going to come here and invite you to the jacuzzi with us but we caught this one lurking around outside your room so we grabbed him!” Taehyung says animatedly, making Wonwoo raise a brow at Mingyu who averts his gaze, ears red.

Wonwoo licks his lips, biting back a smile. He shakes his head, “Hyung, you should sleep. You cannot be drunk right now. It’s your wedding tomorrow!” Wonwoo says in a hushed voice as Taehyung struggles to stand, giggling, “we’re already drunk and we’re going to the Jacuzzi. Come on,” Taehyung grabs his hand and yanks, tugging him away from his door. Wonwoo cant free himself from Taehyung’s grip, and neither can Mingyu break free of Jungkook. The two exchange a glance and look away, their cheeks flushed at the mere meeting of eyes.

Wonwoo and Mingyu, thus, end up unwillingly following the drunk couple to the jacuzzi on the other side of the palace.

❀❀❀❀

Once off the stage, Wonwoo runs towards his parents in the audience, whom he’d spotted earlier when the students of his batch and major were called upon the stage to receive their certificates.

His parents, when they see him running towards them, stand up and open their arms, allowing Wonwoo to tackle them in a tight hug, not letting go for several moments, allowing himself to savor it. It has been months since he last saw his parents.

“Our Wonwoo-yah is all grown up,” Mom says, sniffling as she pats his hair. Wonwoo pulls away from his parents, eyes flickering over to his Dad who cups his cheek, smiling, “So proud of you, Son,” he says and Wonwoo grins, eyes moist. He hugs his parents once again, “thank you so much for coming,”

Mom laughs, “we would never miss your graduation!” she caresses his cheek, joy written across her soft eyes. Wonwoo smiles, and he hugs them a third time, evoking laughter from them.

He’s just…missed them so much.

“You’ve done so well, Wonwoo-yah. Eomma, Appa are proud of you,” his Dad says and Wonwoo fights back tears, pulling away and nodding, “thank you for everything, you guys,”

Mom laughs, kissing Wonwoo’s cheeks, “thank you for being a wonderful son,”

Wonwoo grins as Appa pats his shoulder. His mom looks around though, “Where is Mingyu?”

Wonwoo freezes and lowers his gaze, putting up a smile, “ah, he’s busy,”

Wonwoo was hoping to see Mingyu today but the latter hasn’t shown up. Wonwoo just exhales.

“Class of 2018, please head to the auditorium for your photograph!” someone announces and Wonwoo sighs, “I gotta go, Mom. Wait here, okay? Let’s go out to eat something. My treat!”

His parents smile, “okay, baby,”

With a smile on his face, Wonwoo walks away, joining his classmates ahead.

It has been a while since he last saw them. After he moved in with Jaekyung, he only went to the University to give his exams.

“Wonwoo-yah! Long time no see!” an arm wraps around his neck, and he quickly realizes it’s Daehwa. Wonwoo smiles and slowly frees himself from his grip, worried about his alpha scent lingering on him, “hey, how have you been?” He greets his classmate, and the man smiles as others approach them, their curiosity piqued by Wonwoo’s presence. Soon, a small crowd gathers around them.

“Where have you been, man?” Daehwa asks and Wonwoo smiles, “just….” he avoids their gazes. He can't reveal to them that he’s engaged, to none other than the Second Prince of Korea, “I had sufficient attendance so I didn't bother coming to Uni the last few weeks,” he says and his classmates laugh.

“Wow. I was sure you’d gotten a job offer and run off,” a classmate says, and Wonwoo doesn't really like his tone.

“No,” Wonwoo smiles, “just spending time with family,” he says.

Curious glances are exchanged and it makes Wonwoo extremely uncomfortable. But soon, the attention is taken off him as Daehwa starts speaking, “ah, i heard there were a lot of placements this year,”

A woman raises her hand confidently, “I bagged the highest package,” she exclaims proudly, “I leave for the States next month,”

The crowd oohs and Wonwoo smiles to himself. Soon, more hands raise and somehow everyone around him claims they've gotten packages from esteemed firms. He feels a little out of place. He keeps his head lowered. He never got a chance to participate in the placements.

“Ah, Wonwoo,”

Here we go.

“Did you get any offers? You had to have, right?” a guy asks and Wonwoo swallows, putting on a brave face, “Ah, I didn't participate,” he simply says, and their faces morph. Condescending and pitiful looks are directed towards him. Wonwoo sighs.

“Ah, Wonwoo-yah, you don't have to lie. How can you not participate?” a nameless classmate asks, her words lacking sincerity, laced with derision. Wonwoo’s shoulders sink under the heavy gazes. He cannot tell them the truth. He doesn't want to. Regardless of his matrimonial status, he….doesn't feel accomplished.

“Wonwoo and I did not participate in the interviews. Why is that so hard to understand?” a voice speaks up and Wonwoo gasps, humiliation forgotten as his eyes search for the owner of the voice. Mingyu walks towards them, turning heads, and Wonwoo feels nothing but relief now that he’s here. Mingyu takes Wonwoo’s side, crossing his arms, “you guys know Wonwoo wouldn't lie about something like that,”

Shameful gazes are lowered now that they've been called out and Wonwoo smiles, staring at Mingyu who’s made the effort to clean up. He turns to Wonwoo and winks, making his heart race.

“MIngyu-yah! Why weren't you at the ceremony?” Daehwa asks and Mingyu smiles, “i had urgent matters to tend to but i wanted to make it back for the photo,”

One smile from Mingyu has everyone forget the bitterness of the atmosphere they'd created moments ago.

“You didn't interview either?” Daehwa asks and before Mingyu can answer, someone speaks up, “Ah, he already has a job ready for him, right?” a man says, and the classmates turn to Mingyu, brows raised as they recall the Royal Family’s corporate firm.

Wonwoo glances at Mingyu, who hasn't let that comment faze him. Instead he clears his throat and replies, “Ah, I will not be heading that. I plan to start my own firm. Semiconductor-centric,”

Daehwa raises his brows, “semiconductors? Really?”

Mingyu nods, “yeah, they’ll be hot in the future,” and Wonwoo smiles. Mingyu’s always had a good sense of these things. Which is why he and Wonwoo invested in bonds and stocks together. Surprisingly, it was something they could bond over.

“Ah, it will be easy for you to set up the firm with your family backing you. Aish, I wish I was a Prince,” someone says. Wonwoo notices a tic in Mingyu’s face and it urges him to speak up, “We don't know his struggles so lets not pass careless comments like that,”

The atmosphere is bitter again but Wonwoo doesn't regret it this time. Guilt washes over everyones face and thankfully, Mingyu steps in, “Ah, we’ll see about that,” he says and laughs to lighten the mood, and it surprisingly works.

“What are you all talking about?” a voice butts in. Doyoon wraps an arm around Mingyu, “guys! Are you all coming to my party tonight? It’s in Gangnam!”

Mingyu rolls his eyes and frees himself from Doyoon.

“Party? Mingyu, are you going?” someone asks and suddenly, all eyes are on him. Apparently, Doyoon’s party’s relevance depends on Mingyu’s attendance.

“Ey, of course he will come. He’s been coming to all my parties lately,” Doyoon hugs Mingyu again but the latter quickly frees himself.

Ah, so Mingyu has been going to Doyoon’s parties, huh…

Wonwoo’s heard they can get pretty wild. But from the looks of it, Mngyu doesn't seem to like Doyoon. What does he do at these parties then? Mindlessly drink? Wonwoo purses his lips.

When Wonwoo looks up, he sees Mingyu already looking at him, as if asking permission to go to the party. It surprises Wonwoo but the people around them begin to urge Mingyu to come and the latter seems helpless under their eyes. Wonwoo just smiles in response and Mingyu gulps, turning to the rest, “Okay,” he says and the crowd cheers. Wonwoo giggles.

“Please line up everyone,” someone announces and the small crowd disperses, giving Mingyu and Wonwoo a chance to catch up.

“Mingyu-ssi, you came,” Wonwoo says with a soft voice, and the man smiles, “you wanted to graduate with your best friend, right?” he shuffles closer to Wonwoo, making the Omega smile.

People begin to line up but MIngyu and Wonwoo remain frozen in their places, content with their position in the very corner.

“Ah, really?” Wonwoo chuckles, “what if i say I want my best friend to be by my side after my wedding?”

Mingyu’s face morphs and he turns to Wonwoo, forcing himself to smile, “Ah, right, the wedding,”

Wonwoo swallows. Looks like MIngyu doesn't want to comment on Wonwoo’s words. Wonwoo does not wish to make him uncomfortable by pushing it further and seals his lips, a little embarrassed.

“You nervous?” Mingyu asks and WOnwoo hums, “Yeah. Marriage is a big deal,” he says and Mingyu nods. They remain silent for a while.

Yes, marriage is turning out to be a bigger deal than Wonwoo had assumed. It is scary but…

“But it's sometime next year. There is a lot of time till then. A lot of time for me to….” Wonwoo kind of trails off and MIngyu cocks a brow, “to?”

Wonwoo looks up at him, “to find and settle into a good job,”

Mingyu’s eyes widen but he smiles, “I wish you all the best,” and Wonwoo chuckles, “thank you,”

Wonwoo wants to make a name for himself. He doesn't want to be dependent on anyone. Not Jaekyung, not his parents, not the Queen, and not even Mingyu.

“Everyone, look at the camera!” someone announces and Wonwoo turns around.

“3….2….1” and as the camera clicks, he feels a hand slip into his, prompting him to look up at Mingyu, who shoots him a smile.

It makes Wonwoo smile as well.

❀❀❀❀

“I think I underestimated how big we all are,” Taehyung says, now that they’re all cramped up together in this jacuzzi. Wonwoo scans the people three around him, holding back a smile at the embarrassing situation of four grown men squished into an average sized jacuzzi bathtub. When he meets Mingyu’s equally confused gaze, he chuckles.

Taehyung sinks into the water till his chin touches the surface, leaning his head on Jungkook’s shoulders, “tell me why did I think this was a good idea, Kookie,” he sulks and Jungkook yawns, “I don't know, babe. You're dumb when you're drunk,”

Mingyu scoffs, “then he must be drunk all the time,” and Taehyung wastes no time splashing water onto his face, “you're such a meanie!” he says and Wonwoo bursts out laughing at Mingyu’s drenched face.

Mingyu wipes his face and glares at Taehyung, “you're lucky it's your wedding tomorrow. I would have drowned you, if not,” and Jungkook gasps, “hey! That’s my husband you're talking to!” and he splashes some water over Mingyu’s face again, making Wonwoo throw his head back in laughter.

Jungkook and taehyung are super drunk and MIngyu’s having to bear the brunt of it. Mingyu just wipes his face and turns to Wonwoo, “do you want to splash water over me too?”

Wonwoo giggles, shaking his head, “maybe later,” he says and Mingyu sighs, running a hand through his hair and styling his hair back. His wet shirt sticks to his body and – Wonwoo’s eyes linger on him for a few seconds too long. When Mingyu notices, Wonwoo flickers his eyes off of him, turning to Taehyung and Jungkook huddled together, “Ah, um, why are you both drunk, by the way?”

Jungkook hiccups, “I missed Taehyungie Hyungie so much,”

“That’s not an answer,” Wonwoo chuckles and Taehyung hums, leaning onto Jungkook, “I missed Kookie too,”

“Is it me or was that so gross?” Mingyu asks and is consequently splashed by water again, this time by both of them at once. Wonwoo bursts out laughing as MIngyu groans, “yah!”

Taehyung and Jungkook giggle to each other, and Wonwoo smiles. Hours ago Taehyung had come to his room, worried about his future. But seeing the two makes Wonwoo realize the man was worried about nothing. They have each other to rely on forever. Till death.

“Why did you drag us here, Hyung?” Mingyu asks, and Taehyung turns to him, wrapping his arms around Jungkook’s arm, “It's been a while we've all hung out. I just missed you guys. I knew this was going to be the last time we would get to hang out like this so….” he trails off, sleep taking over his lids. Wonwoo and MIngyu watch as his eyes fall shut, the alcohol finally getting the better of him.

They're both surprised to hear the reason behind Taehyung’s childish antics.

Jungkook smiles, “idiot,” he kisses the top of Taehyung’s head and stands up, “hey, lets get you to bed,” he says and lifts Taehyung up. With the older omega on his shoulders, Jungkook carefully steps out of the tub. He turns around before leaving though, “Sorry for the inconvenience. He was just really excited to have Mingyu back. He said he wanted to hang out with you guys one last time,”

Silence befalls Mingyu and Wonwoo.

Jungkook chuckles, “I have no clue why he thinks we can't hang out again in the future. He can be silly sometimes,” he says and adjusts Taehyung on his shoulders, “I will see you guys tomorrow. Thank you for everything,” he bows with Taehyung still on his shoulders. When Mingyu and Wonwoo return his smiles, he straightens and walks off with his husband-to-be slumbering on his shoulders, leaving Mingyu and Wonwoo in the bathtub.

With the drunkards gone, Mingyu and Wonwoo look at each other, awkward silence engulfing them.

“That's sweet,” Wonwoo speaks up and Mingyu chuckles, “yeah. Hyung is sweet,”

And then, silence.

Wonwoo averts his gaze. He should leave. He can leave but he doesn't want to. Not yet. He slyly flickers his gaze to look at MIngyu, who seems to be taking the opportunity to enjoy the jacuzzi for a change. He leans back on the wall and rests his arms on the edge, running a hand through his drenched hair.

Wonwoo looks away but not before Mingyu catches him staring at him. Shit!

He hopes Mingyu doesn't comment on it.

“Why were you looking at me like that?” MIngyu asks and Wonwoo sighs, “why were you lurking around outside my door at this hour?”

Mingyu blinks dumbly at Wonwoo before his face turns red in embarrassment. He looks away, pouting and Wonwoo bites his lip. Wonwoo’s got a few tricks up his sleeve as well.

“You know why,” Mingyu says, and Wonwoo turns to him, surprised at the confession. Mingyu’s staring at him, his eyes dipping to his lips and then to his body, making Wonwoo sink back into the water, his face red and his ears burning.

“What's your answer?” Mingyu asks, swimming over to Wonwoo. Instinctively, Wonwoo presses his foot against Mingyu’s chest to stop him, “yah,” he warns but Mingyu grabs his ankle, pressing forth and coming closer, “I caught you looking at me twice, y’know,” Mingyu says, his voice lowered and so close to Wonwoo. Wonwoo can't even muster the energy to keep him at bay, watching as his knee presses against his chest as Mingyu advances closer, “Why did you look away, Won? Do I make you nervous?” he asks, voice a mere whisper. His face is so close and he can feel the heat radiating off Mingyu’s body. Wonwoo swallows, matching Mingyu’s gaze, “very,” he replies in a low baritone, and it catches Mingyu off guard. The man halts, eyes locked into Wonwoo’s.

Wonwoo’s chest heaves and he holds his ground against Mingyu’s intense gaze. For a second, it looks like Mingyu leans in but the very next moment, he swims away from Wonwoo, returning to his original position. Wonwoo exhales, his heart thumping loudly in his chest.

"Sorry," Mingyu mumbles. Wonwoo chooses to remain silent.

Awkwardness settles in and he sneaks a glance at Mingyu’s flushed face.

Oh, god.

Wonwoo swallows, shaking his head and splashing some water on his face. God, why is it so hot here?

“Why did you come back, Mingyu-yah?” Wonwoo asks, out of nowhere, because it's been weighing on his mind for days now, “it can't be for Taehyung’s wedding,”

Mingyu turns to him but doesn't respond, simply staring at Wonwoo, as if contemplating. He parts his lips, “Won, I–”

And just then, Jungkook hurries into the room, prompting them to fall silent.

“Forgot our clothes,” Jungkook laughs as he picks up his and Taehyung’s coats and slippers, giving Mingyu the opportunity to stand up, “we should catch a wink. Big day ahead,” he says and gets out of the bathtub. He grabs a towel and wraps it around his wet body, walking away without looking back, leaving Wonwoo to ponder over the mystery behind MIngyu’s arrival.

With Jungkook and Mingyu gone, Wonwoo too steps out of the tub and grabs a towel, walking back to his room alone with a heavy mind.

❀❀❀❀

Relationships are a lot more intricate and tangled than Wonwoo had thought.

The after-effects of one disaster are felt in other areas, sometimes even leading to a whole new disaster altogether.

Wonwoo’s stunned to silence when the Queen slaps Mingyu’s face harshly, leaving a scratch on his cheek from her ring. He doesn't look back up as silence fills the room.

Wonwoo holds his breath, fists clenched, helpless in the face of it all. His eyes scan the faces of other people in the room – Jaekyung and Taehyung, who keep their heads lowered as well. Wonwoo swallow, eyes finally drifting to the tabloids laid out on the table, all news outlets reporting the same news.

“Gangnam club drug raid leads to major meth seizure – Third Prince of Korea arrested at the scene”

Wonwoo watches in horror as the Queen slaps Mingyu once again, this time harsher. No one steps in – no one dares to. This isn't an issue the Royal family can simply brush off. It has tarnished their credibility and reputation. Wonwoo turns to Jaekyung, eyes urging him to intervene but Jaekyung simply lowers his gaze. Wonwoo gulps nervously as the Queen grabs Mingyu by the collar, her eyes bloodshot and enraged, “You insolent brat! How dare you! How dare you get us into this mess!” she slaps him again and this time, Wonwoo intervenes, “Eomonim, please–”

But Jaekyung grabs his wrist, holding him back. Wonwoo, helpless, heeds and remains in position as Mingyu keeps his head lowered in shame.

“You have always been rebellious! You never listen! Why do you hate us so much?! Why do you hate me so much?! I have been doing my best to keep this family together ever since your father died and all you have done is cause problems! How dare you?! I wish you’d never been born!” she yells, slapping Mingyu after every sentence. Tears well in Wonwoo’s eyes, “Eomonim, you shouldn't say that to your children,” he speaks up, eyes glued onto Mingyu. Jaekyung tries to hold Wonwoo back but the man steps ahead anyway, standing up to the Queen.

Mingyu tested negative for alcohol or drugs. He only happened to be at the scene of crime, an innocent bystander who got mixed into this because of his celebrity status. Mingyu’s not at fault. So why is everyone –

“Then how do we solve this?! Do you even know how this will affect all of us?” the Queen turns to Wonwoo, “do not butt in if you cannot offer a solution to this mess! All the reputation I’ve spent building up all these years – gone! Because of this brat and his disgusting habits!” She raises her hand to slap Mingyu once more but this time, it lands on Wonwoo’s cheek. Everyone in the room, including the Queen, are stunned to silence when Wonwoo steps in between Mingyu and his mother, taking the blow in the process.

His cheek stings but he remains rigid in that place, shielding MIngyu from his Mother.

“Won,” Mingyu springs to his feet, turning Wonwoo around to look at his cheek, now red. Wonwoo does not meet Mingyu’s gaze and pushes him back, turning to look at the Queen and the mortified expressions on Jaekyung and Taehyung’s faces.

“Eomonim, there is a solution to all of this,” Wonwoo speaks up, voice trembling from the intensity and shock of the slap. The Queen relents, “how can there be a solution?! Unless this brat’s association with this family is cut, nothing will remain the same! Don't you see?! This bastard – ever since his father’s death, has never one cooperated with me, with his older siblings. He’s always been a problem child and I knew he would one day cause the downfall–”

“Prepone the wedding,” Wonwoo cuts her off, and she gasps once she processes those words. Mingyu’s eyes widen, his hands shaking as he tugs at Wonwoo’s shirt, “Won–”

Wonwoo steps away from Mingyu, reiterating, “the only thing that can distract the public from this is a fairytale wedding,” he says, matching the Queen’s gaze, “announce our alliance and organize the wedding. I assure you, they will forget all about it,”

“Won–”

The Queen cocks a brow, “not a bad idea, not at all,” she says, her mind processing the possible risks and outcomes of the move, “what about next month?” she suggests. Wonwoo winces inwardly and purses his lips, “how about next week?”

Mingyu gasps, walking in front of Wonwoo, “No, Won, you don't have to do this – “ he says, eyes brimming with tears. But Wonwoo doesn't reply, his gaze lowered. Mingyu sniffles, “Won–” and he turns around to look at his Mother, “Eomma, I will leave. You…you can banish me. I will leave. You don't have to do this,” he clasps his hands and gets down on his knees, “I will just leave. There is no need to–”

But the Queen does not spare him a glance and walks past him and wonwoo, “prepare for the wedding next week,” is all she says before exiting the room.

Mingyu falls silent, watching with wide eyes as a tear trickles down Wonwoo’s eyes, one which he wipes quickly as Jaekyung approaches him, a pleased depression on his face, “We’re getting married next week?” he asks and Wonwoo smiles, “Guess so,” he giggles. Jaekyung smiles and leans in to kiss Wonwoo. Wonwoo kisses back, trying to see this in a positive light like Jaekyung is.

When Jae pulls back, he grabs Wonwoo’s hand and leads him out the door, “we have so much to do! Let's go!”

And as the two walk away, Mingyu’s filled with despair.

What has he done….

Notes:

One more chapter to go! See you in 10 days or so ~ Send me your thoughts!!

Chapter 9: Wedding

Notes:

The last chapter was getting too long so I broke it into two! See you next week with the finale!!
Also — cw // implied body dysmorphia

Chapter Text

Wonwoo cuffs his puffy sleeves to his wrist, glancing down at his outfit nervously. He dusts it off and takes a deep breath, swallowing nervously as he stares at the cloth cloaking the mirror. He contemplates for a second before walking over to it. He grabs the cloth, reminding himself that it's Taehyung’s wedding and he can't look stupid and he needs to check himself before leaving the room. He clutches the cloth in his hand, building up the courage to yank it off the mirror. A few moments pass and Wonwoo chicken out, letting go of the fabric and sighing.

He can't do it.

He grabs lip balm from the drawer and applies it on his lips, pacing the room anxiously. Should he call someone over to do a full makeup look? There isn't any time. Should he do it himself? He can't look like a clown. He smacks his lips and glances at his outfit again.

Does he look okay?

Wonwoo doesn't want to open that door. He doesn't want to become aware of the thoughts he tries his best to keep at bay. He just exhales and walks to his vanity when there's a knock on his door.

“Come in,” he says from his vanity, staring at all the unused makeup. Footsteps approach him and Wonwoo turns to find his Secretary smiling at him, “You look gorgeous, Hyung,” Seungkwan says and Wonwoo purses his lips, “Do I?” he smiles nervously, fiddling with the makeup.

Seungkwan smiles, “You do. But not as much as Taehyung Hyung though. Have you seen him?” he says, walking over to Wonwoo to grab a highlighter from his drawer.

Wonwoo smiles, “He must look extra beautiful today. He’s getting married, after all,” he says as Seungkwan tilts his head and applies a teeny bit of highlight on the bridge and the tip of his nose. Seungkwan grins at the end result, “perfect,” he says, setting the strands of Wonwoo’s hair, “that’s all you needed,” he chuckles and Wonwoo swallows, blushing. He looks away, “Thank you, Seungkwan-ah,” he giggles, glad that someone like Seungkwan has been by his side all these years.

Seungkwan replies with a smile, “I’ve taken care of all the things you will need for today, Hyung,” he says, averting his gaze, “everything will be alright,” he smiles, “you'll be okay,”

Wonwoo stares at him, taking a deep breath. If it weren't for people like Seungkwan and Taehyung, Wonwoo doesn't know what would become of him. He is eternally grateful to these people.

“Thank you, Seungkwan-ah,” Wonwoo repeats, “for everything,” he adds and Seungkwan finally looks up at him, the smile dropping from his face. He swallows and opens his arms, “Thank you, Hyung, for giving me a chance to serve you,”

Wonwoo licks his lips and stands up, embracing Seungkwan tightly, his heart full and eyes moist. He can't believe it's been 5 years since he hired Seungkwan to be his assistant. It feels like he's known him for ages.

Seungkwan pulls away, sniffling as he dusts imaginary dirt off of Wonwoo’s clothes, “aigoo, any more hugging and I’ll wrinkle your clothes,” he says and Wonwoo smiles, eyes blurry already. Seungkwan avoids his gaze and steps back, bowing, “Is that all, Your Royal Highness?”

Wonwoo’s lips pull into a bright smile, “That is all, Secretary Boo,”

Seungkwan straightens, his eyes red and cheeks flushed. But Wonwoo doesn't want to comment on them. He doesn't want to make Seungkwan conscious.

“I uh, I’ve put some files on your desk. Please go through them. I will be waiting in the car,” Seungkwan says and walks out of Wonwoo’s room. Wonwoo hears his footsteps recede in the distance and stands up, walking over to his desk to look at what Seungkwan had placed there.

His lips pull into a somber smile when he realizes the contents.

A letter of resignation.

❀❀❀❀

As Wonwoo puts on the tenth outfit, he feels nervous. He stares at his reflection, twirling to get a good look at the suit from all angles.

It’s nice. It's really nice.

Wonwoo smiles.

He likes the crystals sewn into the suit, and not to mention the pearls. This is the first outfit today that has stood out to him and perhaps, this is the one.

With a nervous smile, he finally steps out of the dressing room, making the Kims turn and look at him. Wonwoo smiles brightly, “I like this one,” he says, trying not to sound too enthusiastic as he looks at Taehyung, Jaekyung, Mingyu and the Queen. He can't quite read their faces and anxiety dawns upon him. Wonwoo watches as the Queen especially scrutinizes the outfit, like she did all previous ones but Wonwoo really likes this dress and would love to get married in it. He hopes the Queen approves.

No one says anything for a while, but Wonwoo can tell from Taehyung’s face that he likes the outfit, his eyes bright, a smile playing on his lips. Jaekyung seems bothered and the Queen is yet to give her judgment. Mingyu on the other hand – Wonwoo tries not to stare at him too long. But he wonders what Mingyu thinks of this fit. But when Mingyu’s eyes flicker upto look at Wonwoo, he looks away.

Truth is, Wonwoo hasn't been able to look at MIngyu ever since all of that happened. Mingyu, on the other hand, has done his best to avoid Wonwoo as well. He was only begrudgingly dragged here. But apart from that, he has been obedient at home, listening to what the Queen has to say. Perhaps, the scandal really shook him to the core. Either way, once the news broke out that the Second prince of Korea was to wed, a commoner at that, all word about Mingyu’s drug scandal vanished at once. Just as Wonwoo had predicted.

The Queen hums, “It's good,” she says and Wonwoo’s eyes light up. He holds back a smile, “Thank you, Eomonim,” he says and Taehyung takes the opportunity to speak up as well, “Wonwoo-yah! You look very beautiful!” he says and Wonwoo finally giggles, shy. He looks up at Mingyu but the man doesn't react. He just stares at Wonwoo, prompting the Omega to bring his eyes to Jaekyung, “Hyung, what about you?”

Jaekyung hums, eyes raking over Wonwoo’s body. He squints, “something is off,” he says and Wonwoo’s heart sinks. But he tries to not let it get to his heart, “what do you mean?” he turns to look at himself in the mirror.

“Now that you mention it, perhaps it needs to be altered,” the Queen adds and Wonwoo frowns, glancing down at his fit, “what's wrong with it?” he mutters, confused.

Jaekyung shrugs, “Is it the outfit or is it you?”

A careless sentence sends Wonwoo into a downward spiral. Something is wrong with him?

“I don't think there is anything wrong,” Taehyung chimes in but the Queen seems convinced otherwise, “it doesn't fit you well. This is made for more...curvaceous bodies,”

Wonwoo swallows, feeling a little light-headed. But it's so nice….

The reason he can't buy it is because he makes it look weird?

“Ah, he’s a recessive Omega, Eomma,” Jaekyung adds, an explanation to his ‘unusual’ body shape. Wonwoo gulps nervously, looking at his reflection once again. Just…what is wrong with it? What is wrong with him? The more he looks at himself though, the more he understands what they're saying.

“It's okay, we can get this altered. Or try another outfit, hm?” Taehyung intervenes and Jaekyung clicks his tongue, “We’ve tried so many outfits already. Nothing seems to suit him,” and Wonwoo lowers his head.

That’s right. None of his outfits have looked flattering on him. Apparently, not even this. Nothing suits him….he just doesn't seem able to pull off outfits like this.

“I-I’ll go try something else,” he says but the Queen stops him, “We haven't got the time. We will go with this one and get it altered,”

“But–” Wonwoo tries to interject but the queen raises her hand, dismissing him. He seals his lips as the Queen stands up, “Jaekyung, please make the payment,” she says and walks out, followed by her bodyguards and her Secretary.

Jaekyung stands up, “I’ll go make the payment, love,” he says and walks away. Wonwoo remains frozen in his position, staring at himself in the mirror. Taehyung walks up to him, “Wonwoo-yah, don't think too much about it, okay?” he reassures and Wonwoo musters the strength to fake a smile, “okay,”

Taehyung nods, “Go and get changed. I’ll see you outside,” he says, squeezing Wonwoo’s chest before walking out. Wonwoo’s smile drops instantly and he storms back into the trial room, his breathing heavy as he stares at his reflection. The longer he stares, the more obvious his flaws become.

Yes, he’s a recessive omega. He doesn't get frequent heats, he can't smell other alphas and omegas and he’s not built like your typical Omega. He’s bigger, broader and taller. Perhaps, it's what puts people off.

Wonwoo screws his eyes shut and tries to calm himself when a voice calls from outside, “I think you look breathtaking, Won,”

Wonwoo gasps, opening his eyes to see a silhouette outside, much taller than him and its head lowered. He wishes he could move the cloth to the side and look at Mingyu’s face, but the man walks away before he can do that, leaving Wonwoo with mixed feelings.

❀❀❀❀

“There are so many people here,” Hansol says, scanning the crowd and Mingyu hums, adjusting his tie, “The Nation’s first prince is getting married after all,” he says, looking around at familiar and unfamiliar faces. Either way, most of them seem to avoid interacting with or even looking at Mingyu. Fair.

“Wow, they are all staring at you like you're a druggie, Hyung,” Hansol whispers and Mingyu huffs, amused by his careless words. But he knows Hansol means no harm and laughs it off, “in their eyes, I am,”

Hansol hums, peeling his eyes off the people and admiring the decorations, “wasn't it proved you had nothing to do with it?”

Mingyu smirks, “It was. But the people believe what they want to believe. I was rarely in the public eye and wasn't as friendly or popular as Taehyung Hyung. Perhaps that contributed to their antagonistic view of me,”

Mingyu grew up a Prince but apart from the title, nothing about him was Princely, nor did he wish to act like one or be treated like one. He was a celebrity, never a prince. He can't imagine ever embodying what it means to be a Prince beloved by all.

“It’s okay. You won't have to see these people ever again after today,” Hansol assures and a sad smile graces Mingyu’s lips, “That’s true,” he says, plucking a glass of Champagne off a tray in the hands of a waiter. As he presses the glass to his lips, commotion by the entrance catches his attention. Mingyu turns to look at the entrance and sees a plethora of flashes erupt.

“Looks like Prince Wonwoo is here,” Hansol says as Mingyu lowers his hand, lips parted in awe as his eyes rake over Wonwoo’s outfit. In the golden light and amidst the flashes, Wonwoo glows beautifully, smiling gorgeously as he greets everyone. If aphrodite were to witness this, she would bawl her eyes out.

“Are you for real?” Hansol’s voice brings Mingyu’s attention back to him, “huh?”

Hansol smirks, “you said that cheesy thing out loud, dear Boss,” and Mingyu blushes, embarrassed. He averts his gaze from Wonwoo and takes a sip of his champagne. Wonwoo makes him nervous! And dumb!

But as much as he tries to look away, he can't help but bring his gaze back onto Wonwoo, who looks ethereal in that fit – a gray kimono jacket with a belt, with floral embroidery at the ends of the bishop sleeves, combined with plain black trousers. Mingyu doesn't want to look away from the man, not now, not ever. He smiles when Wonwoo steps fully into the wedding hall, attracting everyone’s attention as he walks over to a group of children. He crouches as the children crowd him, jumping excitedly. He engages them in a conversation, smiling as he listens attentively.

“He invited the students from the local kindergarten to attend the wedding, apparently,” Hansol says and Mingyu chuckles, amused and touched, “of course he did,”

He watches as Wonwoo converses with the kids, his heart melting. He takes a deep breath, feeling content for a moment. Wonwoo looks the happiest when he's with the people. He’s a Prince more than Mingyu ever was or could be.

But Mingyu is soon brought out of his trance by Hansol whispering something in his ear before stepping away, “Queen incoming,”

Mingyu turns around and finds his Mother, the Queen, waking over to him. He takes a breath to prepare himself, shoving his hand in his pocket and taking a sip. She ignores the people greeting her and walks straight to Mingyu, halting beside him. Neither say anything for a while, both staring at Wonwoo by the entrance.

“How is everything?” she asks and Mingyu shrugs, “wonderful. I expect no less from a royal wedding,”

Eomma hums, “he helped organize a lot of this,” she says, referring to Wonwoo. Mingyu smiles, “I can tell,” he says, considering the fact that the theme is purple, Taehyung’s favorite colors.

“I wanted it to be gold and silver. But he was adamant that this would make Taehyung happy,” Eomma says and Mingyu huffs. He's surprised the Queen yielded to Wonwoo. Perhaps, over the years, they've grown to accommodate each other.

Silence prevails and Mingyu feels off-out. Perhaps he should take his leave.

“Is your decision final?” Eomma asks and Mingyu looks down at her. She refuses to meet his gaze, staring into the distance. Mingyu gulps and turns away, “Yes, Eomma,” he says. She purses her lips and nods, “very well,”

It's all she says before she walks away, leaving MIngyu to exhale defeatedly. But this is right. It's for the best. He’s just surprised that she didn't tie him up upside down and flog him to death. Maybe she considered him her son after all. Mingyu smiles at himself for deluding himself like that.

“Prince incoming,” Hansol whispers in Mingyu’s ears.

“Wha–” and as Mingyu turns around, he comes to face Wonwoo.

“G-Good afternoon,” Mingyu says, caught off guard by Wonwoo and his blinding beauty. He tries not to stare at his outfit. He doesn't want Wonwoo to think of him as some creep.

“Good afternoon,” Wonwoo says, “did you get enough sleep last night?” he asks. Mingyu’s eyes flicker to Hansol, who cocks a brow at him. He turns back to Wonwoo, “Yes,” he says and Wonwoo hums, “alright,” he says and silence engulfs them.

Mingyu frowns. Why isn't Wonwoo leaving? Does he have something to say? He has something to say, doesn't he?

“Enjoy the party,” Wonwoo says and tries to walk away rather awkwardly, and then it clicks Mingyu.

“You look very beautiful,” he says and Wonwoo halts his tracks. He doesnt turn around and Mingyu’s eyes travel to Hansol, as if asking him to tell him what Wonwoo’s face looks like right now.

“Thank you,” Wonwoo says and walks away, and Mingyu purses his lips, eyes lingering on the pretty silhouette that retreats into the crowd. Hansol rushes over to him with an excited expression, “he was totally blushing!” he whisper-screams and an idiotic grin graces Mingyu’s face.

–

“Honey,” Wonwoo calls out to Jaekyung, who turns around to look at him, eyes raised in surprised, “Oh, hey, Love,” he leans in to kiss him, looking down at his outfit, “you look lovely,” he says and Wonwoo smiles, “thank you,” he says, “you look good as well,” he gestures at his plain black suit. Jakeyung would've dressed better. It's Taehyung’s wedding after all. But there's nothing Wonwoo can do about it.

Jaekyung holds Wonwoo’s hands, smiling at him. He’s in an oddly good mood. Wonwoo was sure he would be upset because Wonwoo did not return to their room last night. But Wonwoo knows the more he tries to investigate his husband’s good mood, higher are the chances of him hurting. So he shuts down his mind.

“Sorry I couldn't come back to the room yesterday. I had things to prepare and Seungkwan made me sign some papers this morning,” Wonwoo says and Jaekyung just smiles, learning in to kiss Wonwoo again, “no worries, love,” he says and pulls away, and it becomes blatantly clear to Wonwoo that Jaekyung was probably talking to Jiwoo last night. Wonwoo tries to ignore the pang in his heart and smiles.

“We should go greet our guests,” Wonwoo says and Jae smiles, “sure thing,” and just as they are about to walk away, they see the Queen walking over to them. Wonwoo straightens as she halts in front of them, an angry scowl on her face, “What is she doing here?!” she whispers furiously and Wonwoo and Jae exchange a glance, “who, Eomonim?” Wonwoo asks and the Queen clenches her fists, “her!” she says, eyes pointing at a familiar figure dressed in a beige gown, sticking out like a sore thumb because of her extraordinary visuals. Jiwoo.

Jiwoo’s at the wedding.

Jaekyung’s eyes widen and the Queen stares daggers at him, “did you invite her?”

Jaekyung gasps, denying it immediately, “I didn't, Eomma,” he says and the Queen exhales, as if trying to calm down, “you were in-charge of the invites! Why is she here?!” she asks as Wonwoo stares at Jiwoo, looking effortlessly elegant in that gown and minimal jewelry. She has everyone turning heads and carries herself with grace and confidence, something Wonwoo has always lacked.

“I-I’ll go talk to her,” Jaekyung says, walking away before either his husband or Mother can stop him. Wonwoo watches, frozen, as Jiwoo turns to Jaekyung and her eyes light up. She pulls him into a hug, raising several eyebrows around them. The hug lasts a little too long and Wonwoo lowers his gaze, turning around, “I will go check up on the caterers,” he says and is about to excuse himself but the Queen stops him, “I don't like her,”

Wonwoo stops, turning around to look at his Mother-in-law, “Huh?”

The Queen’s sharp gaze remains on Jae and Jiwoo, “I've never liked her,” she says, “and I want her gone,” she turns to Wonwoo, “see to it that she’s gone,”

Wonwoo licks his lips, “Eomonim–”

“She can never be you, not even in a million years,” she says, shocking Wonwoo to the core, “What?”

The Queen lowers her gaze, “her eyes, they remind me of …a woman I once called my friend,” she says, her voice trembling, “It's best we get rid of people like that as soon as possible, Wonwoo-yah,” she turns to Wonwoo with twinkling eyes. The sight surprises Wonwoo. The Queen has never been this forthcoming with her feelings. This….is all so….

“Eomonim, are you okay?” Wonwoo asks, taking her hand and guiding her to a table. He kneels in front of her, taking her trembling hands and looking into her vulnerable eyes. She licks her lips, “I realize I have been harsh on you, and Mingyu, even Taehyung and Jaekyung,” she begins, “and today, it's…made me realize that the damage I've caused could be irreparable,”

What brought this on??

“Eomonim–”

“The people I care about, I don't want them to hurt anymore. I don't want history to repeat itself and watch as a loved one suffers the same fate as me,” she says, squeezing Wonwoo’s hands. The Queen doesn't say anything else, letting Wonwoo connect the dots. There were rumors of the former King, her late husband, engaging in extra-marital affairs. But now, as he stares into her helpless, empathetic eyes, perhaps those were not baseless rumors after all.

However, their conversation hasn't gone unnoticed. People begin to murmur, glancing at the Prince kneeling by the Queen’s side as she keeps her head lowered. Wonwoo swallows, “Eomonim, right now – “

She raises her head, putting a stern expression back on her face, “Now is not the time to talk about this,”

Wonwoo blinks at her change of character. Perhaps, like Wonwoo, she is just as good at keeping up the pretenses. While she keeps a brave face, her trembling hands speak a different truth.

“We will talk tonight,” she says and Wonwoo purses his lips, “...okay,”

Wonwoo stands up and helps the Queen up as well, but she doesn't let go of his hand just yet, her gaze trained on a person ahead of them. Wonwoo’s eyes follow her gaze and realize the object of her softened eyes.

Mingyu.

“He will not believe me if I say I was glad he returned, right?”

Wonwoo gasps inwardly, staring at his Mother-on-law suddenly overcome by emotion. He wants to tell her that her regret now cannot change the way her past actions made people feel. Some wounds cannot be healed.

“Thank you for this lovely wedding, Wonwoo-yah,” she says, calling him by his name a second time today. It's rare for her to address him like this. It compels Wonwoo to believe that she does indeed mean her words. All of them.

“Enjoy yourself today, Eomonim,” is all he can say and she nods. Wonwoo straightens and clears his throat, eyes landing on Jaekyung and Jiwoo still animatedly talking to each other, “I have something to deal with,” he says.

With his goal in mind, Wonwoo advances towards the pair. But his pace halters when he sees Mingyu approach Jiwoo, bowing to her and taking her hand to press a kiss to it. Wonwoo pauses in his tracks, watching as Jiwoo laughs coyly and Mingyu reciprocates her smile. With her hand still in his, Mingyu takes her away, the two disappearing in the crowd.

Wonwoo clenches his fists, trying to make sense of his feelings, of the way his stomach churn unpleasantly. But he raises his head to look at Jaekyung, who’s watching Mingyu and Jiwoo begrudgingly, fists clenched and a scowl on his face. Wonwoo scoffs inwardly and rushes over to Jaekyung, grabbing his arm as he whispers to him, “What is she doing here?” He lets Jaekyung know he is not in the least pleased by her presence.

Jaekyung’s brows furrow, “Why would I know that?”

“You were the one in-charge of the invitations!” Wonwoo says, and his accusatory tone is something Jaekyung picks up on. He scoffs, stepping away from Wonwoo, “I didn't invite her but I don't see the problem with her being here. Many celebrities have been invited. Her presence is good PR for us,”

Wonwoo huffs, “PR? This is not an event. It's Taehyung’s wedding and she is an outsider!”

That seems to strike a nerve with Jaekyung, who gasps in response, “Outsider? She is a friend, someone I've known long before you came into my life!”

“And I am your husband!” Wonwoo raises his voice, drawing attention, “shouldn't my concerns be your priority?!”

Jaekyung notices raised brows and questioning looks thrown towards them. He steps closer to Wonwoo, towering over him and voice lowered, “Stop making a scene,” he warns. But Wonwoo holds his ground, “is she why you won't mate with me?” he asks and Jaekyung’s eyes turn blood-red, “how dare you accuse me of such a thing?! Have you no respect for my character and lineage?!”

Wonwoo smirks. Jaekyung’s panic alone is his admittance to it.

“Some lineage,” Wonwoo mutters and Jaekyung grabs his arm, eyes wide and enraged, “what does that mean?”

Wonwoo cocks a brow, “what?”

Jaekyung swallows, veins popping out of his forehead. But Wonwoo refuses to be intimidated by him. In addition to Wonwoo’s confidence are the curious looks from passersby that urge Jaekyung to step away, smiling at Wonwoo. He raises his hand to cup his cheek, “we’ll talk about this later tonight,” he says, “be good until then,”

Wonwoo keeps an indifferent face as Jaekyung pulls away and walks off. And despite trying to calm his nerves, his eyes float over to Mingyu and Jiwoo chatting by his table. He notices her hand resting on Mingyu’s arm, or the way she leans closer to him when she laughs at whatever Mingyu just said.

Wonwoo doesn't get it. Were they ever close? Rather, Wonwoo was led to believe Mingyu had no interest in her whatsoever. The only person he was interested in was –

As if sensing Wonwoo’s intense gaze, Mingyu’s eyes flicker over to him.

Wonwoo only scowls at the man and turns around. He walks away with anger bubbling inside of him.

Nothing makes sense today!

❀❀❀❀

It's past 12 when Wonwoo knocks on Taehyung’s door. The older Omega sleepily answers the door, only for his eyes to shoot open when he realizes it's Wonwoo, holding a bag in his arms.

“Oh, Wonwoo-yah,” Taehyung shakes his sleep away, looking at Wonwoo’s unusually small frame. The younger omega licks his lips, “I’m sorry I disturbed you. I-I’ll come back tomorrow–” he tries to hurry off but Taehyung grabs him, “hey, hold on,”

Wonwoo turns around, “Sorry,”

Taehyung sighs into a smile, “come on in, Wonwoo-yah. Looks like you have something to talk about, hm?”

Wonwoo nods, nervous. With his head lowered, he walks into Taehyung’s room, settling down on the bed. He looks around at Taehyung’s room, well maintained and decorated. It is so distinctly Taehyung. The room has character, just like its resident.

“So, what is it? Cold feet about your wedding day after?” Taehyung asks when he sits down beside him. Wonwoo tenses and turns to Taehyung, “No I just….no cold feet,”

Taehyung blinks at him, “Oh? So what's up?”

Wonwoo gulps nervously. How does he put this?

“I….I just….” he screws his eyes shut, “what does it mean to be an Omega, Hyung?”

He can't believe he just asked him that. He feels like a prepubescent teen. It's so embarrassing that he wants to dig a hole in the ground and bury himself in it.

“Don't be embarrassed, Wonwoo-yah,” Taehyung’s gentle voice urges Wonwoo to open his eyes and look at him. The younger is surprised he wasn’t laughed at. But thats how Taehyung is. Gentle and conscious.

Wonwoo swallows and stares at the bag in his lap, “I just….I don't know how to dress or act like an Omega, and it's what Eomonim wants so I…I want to learn from you,”

Taehyung just blinks at Wonwoo and then smiles, “what's in the bag, Wonwoo-yah?”

Wonwoo licks his lips and unzips the bag, showing Taehyung some makeup he had bought ahead of the wedding. Taehyung just smiles and zips the bag, “if it is help with your makeup that you want, don't worry, okay? I will doll you up on the day of the wedding, and give you tips for it later too, okay?”

“But Hyung–”

Taehyung just smiles, “your appearance has nothing to do with being an Omega, Wonwoo-yah. You don't have to change anything about it, okay? To please Jae or Eomma,”

Wonwoo just stares at Taehyung’s face, processing his words. His eyes moisten and he looks down at his lap, “I…..I just….if I didn't look like what I did, things would be a lot easier,” he whispers. He doesn't want to cry.

Taehyung hums, “I understand. I'm sorry you feel that way. But I cannot corrupt you by advising you to put on makeup or dress a certain way to seem more…omega…you get me?”

Wonwoo licks his lips. He nods. He's frustrated but he gets Taehyung. It was foolish of Wonwoo to try and change like this. Now he's made a fool of himself in front of taehyung.

“Thank you, Hyung,” he springs to his feet and is about to run out the door when Taehyung stops him, “as for what makes you desirable,” and Wonwoo pauses, “it's your resilience, fearlessness and kindness,”

Wonwoo turns around, a tear trickling down his eye. Taehyung smiles, “those aren't the qualities of a good omega, Wonwoo-yah. Those are qualities of a Prince,”

Wonwoo inhales sharply, eyes widening. Taehyung chuckles, “Perhaps, more than an Omega, you should focus on becoming a good Prince. But I think you're already halfway there,”

Wonwoo loses the battle against his tears, succumbing to them as they stain his cheeks. He begins to sob as Taehyung laughs, walking over to him to embrace him.

“I’m sure you will fly high, Wonwoo-yah,” he pats his back, “so never back down, okay?”

Wonwoo can only sniffle in response. He lets the bag drop to the ground and returns the hug, nodding.

“Thank you, Hyung,”

As long as Taehyung Hyung is by his side, he will be fine.

But Wonwoo knows there’s a deadline to that.

And the thought terrifies him.

❀❀❀❀

After meeting up with the guests, Wonwoo checks the time. It’s almost time for the ceremony. Jungkook and his family will arrive in 5 minutes. He wonders if Taehyung is ready yet. Wonwoo doesn’t bother looking for Jaekyung, Jiwoo, or even Mingyu for that matter. He knows doing so will only make him angrier. He simply heads to Taehyung’s dressing room located in the adjacent building. He is to drive from that building to this in a white Rolls Royce, accompanied by the Queen who is going to give him away. Through the kitchen, Wonwoo takes a shortcut to head to the adjacent building, greeted by the Royal staff on the way. He greets them back with a smile as his phone buzzes. A notification from Seungkwan.

But as Wonwoo’s about to open it, he arrives at the dressing room, looking up only to have his breath knocked out of his lungs by the sight of the Older OMega dressed in a luxurious white suit.

Taehyung, being dolled up by the Royal beauticians, only looks up at Wonwoo when the door creaks. He smiles when he notices Wonwoo.

“Hey, Wonwoo-yah. We were just talking about you,” Taehyung says, and Wonwoo can't peel his eyes off the man. He looks breathtaking. But Wonwoo needs to snap out

Taehyung’s best men laugh.

“Me?” Wonwoo asks and Jimin smiles, “first thing’s first, you looks gorgeous, Wonwoo-yah,”

Wonwoo flushes, feeling conscious all of a sudden, “thank you,” he says and Taehyung chuckles.

“Hyung, can you guys give us a minute?” Taehyung tells Seokjin and Jimin, who smile at him and clear the room, “we’ll see you out there, Taehyungie,” Seokjin says. With that, the two omegas leave the room and Wonwoo turns to Taehyung, “Where is Eomonim? She’s usually punctual,” Wonwoo says, checking the time.

Taehyung smiles, stepping off the step-stool and walking towards Wonwoo, taking his hands, “there has been a change of plans. I was about to call you,”

Wonwoo frowns, “eh?”

Taehyung smiles, “I want you to give me away, Wonwoo-yah,”

Wonwoo’s eyes enlarge comically, “what?”

Taehyung grins, squeezing his hands, “I already spoke to Eomma. She said it’s okay,”

Wonwoo swallows. Perhaps that is why Eomonim acted like that earlier. Or is it? Something is not adding up.

“I would’ve asked Jae or Mingyu but…” Taehyung licks his lips, “…you’ve been there for me more than they have,”

Wonwoo blinks dumbly as Taehyung goes on, “from encouraging me to pursue Jungkook, to arranging rendezvous for us to meet, to staying by my side when I told Eomma about him. I just…it’s only natural it should be you giving me away,”

Wonwoo’s eyes brim with tears and he lowers his gaze, overwhelmed, “oh…”

Taehyung chuckles, tilting Wonwoo’s face, “hey, are those tears? Why am I always making you cry?”

Wonwoo shakes his head and pulls Taehyung in for a hug, “thank you for giving me the honor, Hyung,” and Taehyung laughs, hugging him back, “thank you for everything else, Wonwoo-yah,”

Wonwoo pulls away, determined not to cry in front of Taehyung. He’s seen enough of Wonwoo’s tears over the years.

On cue, there is a knock on the door and Seokjin’s voice echoes from outside, “Tae? It’s time,”

“Coming,” Taehyung says and turns, looping his arm around Wonwoo’s, “shall we?”

Wonwoo smiles brightly.

“Let’s go, Hyung,”

Chapter 10: Forever Home

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Wonwoo helps Taehyung out of the car, smiling when the older man holds his hand tightly, grinning at him. Together, they turn to look at the horde of paparazzi and beyond them, the venue. Taehyung squeezes Wonwoo’s hand and the two begin their walk down the carpet.

They brace themselves for the photos as they walk past the cameras, and it's not long before the doors shut behind them and they are faced with a gathering of guests – friends, families and other dignitaries. Their eyes widen at the sight of Taehyung, who looks ethereal despite his minimal dressing. Layers of feathers add a nice touch to the suit, giving Taehyung a swan-like elegance.

Taehyung notices a group of school children, waving at him excitedly. He laughs and waves back, inciting further excitement in them. Wonwoo smiles. He knew it was a good idea to invite them. When else would they get to see such an event?

As they traverse down the aisle, passing the guests, Wonwoo’s eyes land on the Queen, face indifferent but her eyes clearly somber. Wonwoo’s gaze flickers to Jaekyung standing beside her, and Jiwoo beside him, clapping softly. Wonwoo doesnt let the bitterness spread and looks away from the woman, eyes finding Mingyu instead, genuinity evident in his smile. It compels Wonwoo to smile as they approach the altar, upon which is Jungkook, dressed just as eloquently in white, heart-eyes glued onto Taehyung, his love and his mate. Taehyung inhales, and Wonwoo squeezes his hand softly, prompting the older to turn to him and smile. He leans in to hug Wonwoo, “thank you,”

And when Wonwoo pulls away with a smile, Taehyung turns and walks up the stairs to join Jungkook on the altar. Wonwoo’s cheeks hurt from smiling as he watches the two giggle when they reunite at the altar. He turns around and raises his head to look at the rest of his family, all their eyes on him. His eyes meet Jaekyung’s momentarily, and then flicker to Jiwoo, who smiles at him with obvious ingenuity. Wonwoo thus walks to Mingyu’s side, surprising the man, who chooses not to question it.

“Are we ready?” the Priest clears his throat, looking at the two grooms. When they nod, the Priest smiles.

“Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today….”

“You did good,” Mingyu whispers in Wonwoo’s ears.

Wonwoo smiles to himself.

❀❀❀❀

“Hey,”

“Oh my–” Wonwoo jumps when he hears Mingyu’s voice, turning around to look at the man walking towards him. Wonwoo calms his racing heart, shaking his head, “you scared me,” he scolds the Alpha, who stops by Wonwoo’s side, hands on the railing of the balcony that overlooks their garden. It's where Wonwoo caught Mingyu sneaking out to a party.

“Sorry,” Mingyu says as Wonwoo brings his attention back to the paper in his hand, trying to memorize the lines.

Wonwoo and Mingyu haven't really gotten a chance to speak to each other since …..since Wonwoo’s wedding got preponed. They've been really busy since then. Once the alliance was announced, Wonwoo and Jaekyung had to tour the Nation to introduce Wonwoo to the citizens as their next Prince. It's been a hectic week and he can't believe the wedding is tomorrow already.

He’s just….stressed and overwhelmed.

“Vows?” Mingyu asks and Wonwoo nods, “yeah,” he sighs, “i used to be able to remember the entire Periodic table. Why can't I memorize a few lines?”

MIngyu hums, “Maybe the Periodic table was more interesting than boring wedding vows,”

Wonwoo feels the need to be offended but he just sighs, looking up at the sky. He takes a deep breath and gets back to memorizing the vows. The Queen had instructed him to make the vows as romantic as possible. Wonwoo had spent the whole day penning down the vows and all he needed to do was memorize them. But this is turning out to be the hardest part of it all.

“I'm going to mess up tomorrow and the people of this nation are going to hate me,” Wonwoo rambles and Mingyu laughs, “Won, don't overthink this,”

Wonwoo swallows. The familiarity that once surrounded them is back, after months. He hasn't heard Mingyu laugh in a while. He wonders how Mingyu is. Ever since the Gangnam incident, Mingyu’s kind of been ostracized. No one really talks to him, except Taehyung, of course. Even Wonwoo hasn't had a chance to check up on him. But now, alone on the balcony, it feels like they're back in the golden days, when they were roommates and best friends. Does this mean things will go back to normal from now on?

“Then how would you do this?” Wonwoo groans and Mingyu hums, “first of all, I think you're finding it hard to memorize because you don't mean it,”

Wonwoo frowns, “what?”

Mingyu corrects himself, “You won't forget the words if you mean them. These words are a result of compulsion to be romantic. Maybe, if you just…speak from the heart, you won't have to worry about memorizing it. You'll remember it, or you could just eyeball it on the spot,”

Wonwoo blinks. He can't find fault in that reasoning. But he still doesn't know how he's going to do it. He groans, “Easier said than done,” he rolls his eyes and Mingyu clicks his tongue, “here, allow me to demonstrate,” he takes Wonwoo’s hands, “imagine we’re at the altar,”

Wonwoo scoffs, “Kim Mingyu, you didn't even propose,”

Mingyu gasps, “my bad,” he clears his throat, “Jeon Wonwoo, will you marry me so I can tell you how to deliver heartfelt vows?”

Wonwoo giggles, “Yes,” he says and Mingyu laughs airily, shaking his head. He clears his throat, looking Wonwoo in the eye, “we’re at the altar and both our families are watching. Your Dad is crying and your mom is consoling him,”

Wonwoo giggles at the thought and Mingyu continues, “There’s another person crying – Jae Hyung, because you decided to ditch him and marry me instead,”

Wonwoo bursts out laughing, “Idiot. Get on with it already!”

Mingyu smiles, licking his lips, “right. So um, the Priest tells us to exchange vows and I’m looking at you and you're the most beautiful person in the room tonight,”

Wonwoo’s heart skips a beat and the hint of a smile disappears from his face. Mingyu swallows, their gazes locked, “I….”

Wonwoo waits patiently as Mingyu tries to gather his thoughts. But an overwhelming feeling engulfs Wonwoo and he averts his gaze, “I told you it's difficult,” he says, trying to pull away but MIngyu holds him in place, “When I first met you, I didn't know how hard I would fall for you,”

Wonwoo pauses, looking up at Mingyu, who continues to speak, eyes glued to Wonwoo, “I dream of you, when I’m asleep and when I’m awake. I think of you when you're not with me, I think of you when you are with me. Its you, all the time, everywhere,”

Wonwoo blinks, stunned by Mingyu’s delivery and the incomprehensible emotion in his eyes.

“When I’m with you, I feel different, I feel liberated, I can finally breathe again and…I feel warm. For me, who resides in the cold, you are the warm Sun. You are my apricity,”

A gasp leaves Wonwoo’s parted lips, eyes wide at Mingyu’s heartfelt words. Mingyu swallows and averts his gaze, letting go of Wonwoo’s hands, “or something along those line,” he steps away, “you can add how much you love him and what not, of course, that's that,” and Wonwoo’s hands fall to his side, his eyes lowering, heart racing.

“Yeah,” he says with a nervous huff, “yeah, I get it,” he says, fists clenched. For a few moments, neither of them speak.

“I should go–” Mingyu says but Wonwoo stops him in his tracks, “I’m scared,” he says. MIngyu halts, turning around, “cold feet,” he says, “it's…pretty common. Dont worry,” he says and Wonwoo swallows, nodding, “yeah. I….” he looks up at Mingyu again, at the gentle breeze in his hair, at his moonlit face and his starry gaze.

Wonwoo takes a deep breath, “tell me it’ll be okay,”

Mingyu’s eyes widen, stunned. Nevertheless, he replies, “it’ll be okay,” he whispers.

Wonwoo purses his lips, heart filled with emotions, “tell me you’ll be by my side,” his voice trembles and he can't help but look down. Mingyu remains silent for a moment.

“I'll be by your side,” he says, and Wonwoo feels like crying because all those words sound like a lie and Wonwoo doesn't know why.

“You should get some sleep, Won,” he says and Wonwoo nods, “okay,”

He can't bring himself to look up at Mingyu. He wants to but he just can't.

Mingyu steps away and walks off, leaving Wonwoo to deal with the storm brewing within.

“Thank you for everything, Won,” Mingyu says and Wonwoo’s head whips up to look at his moonlit back, “and I’m sorry. I hope you can forgive me,” Mingyu says, and without sparing Wonwoo another glance, walks away.

A tear rolls down Wonwoo’s eye.

Why does it feel like he just lost something precious?

❀❀❀❀

Guests line up to greet the newlyweds, giving the Wonwoo a moment to catch a breath. He watches as, hand in hand, Jungkook and Taehyung interact not just with the press but also relatives and friends, glee written all over their faces. Wonwoo smiles.

“They look happy,”

The voice sends a chill running down his spine. He turns his head to find Jiwoo standing next to him, having snuck up on him thanks to the hustle bustle of the crowd. Wonwoo stares at her for a moment. He may not be able to detect her scent but he can feel the intensity of her pheromones. She's one of the most desired and influential Omegas of the country after all.

“Indeed,” Wonwoo replies dryly, looking at Taehyung and Jungkook. He spaces out, a million thoughts coursing through his mind.

“I heard you helped Jae organize a lot of this stuff,” Jiwoo says and Wonwoo smirks, “is that what Jae said? I don't remember him coming here to even look at the venue though,” he turns to her, and she cocks a brow, “ah, is that so?”

“It is,” Wonwoo smiles and she looks away, “Either way, very beautiful,”

Wonwoo hums and awkward silence engulfs them.

“I hope its all smooth sailing for them. Marriages these days aren't as stable as they once used to be,” Jiwoo sighs and Wonwoo huffs. She notices and frowns, “did I say something wrong?”

Wonwoo shakes his head, smiling, “No, absolutely not,” he begins, “You're right about marriages not working out these days, because most often than not, there are more than two people in the marriage,” he turns to her as his smile drops, eyes accusing. She raises her brows, her disingenuous smile disappearing from her face, “Of course,” she says and looks away.

Wonwoo smiles, bringing his attention back to the happy couple.

“I see you and Jae haven't mated yet,” she says and Wonwoo turns to her, unaffected by her attempt to make him feel inferior. He just smiles, “Ah, Jiwoo-ssi, its 2023. The age old notion of mating holds no merit in symbolizing the love two people have for each other, eh? Not when unions among Betas, Alphas and Omegas are on the rise,”

Jiwoo’s face morphs into a mixture of anger and helplessness.

“Ah, mating is so romantic though. Forgive me for being such a hopeless romantic but I couldn't bring myself to stay with someone who didn't want to mate me,” she giggles and Wonwoo smiles, “is that why you're single?”

Her eyes widen and she fails at keeping up the pretenses, “you– you've acquired quite the attitude since we last spoke, eh?”

Wonwoo cocks a brow, “I'd call it confidence, not attitude,”

Jiwoo swallows, “you–”

“Hello, Lee Jiwoo-ssi,” a voice interrupts, and the woman turns around to find the Queen standing behind her. She gasps and bows, “Good evening, Eomonim–”

“It's Your Majesty,” the Queen sternly corrects, making Jiwoo bite her tongue and swallow. She nods, straightening, “Good Evening, Your Majesty,” she says, “I was just talking to Wonwoo about the wonderful wedding he organized,”

The Queen’s eyes flicker onto Wonwoo momentarily before landing back on Jiwoo, “What is this color? White?” her eyes roam Jiwoo’s dress, and the latter smiles, “off-white, Your majesty,”

The Queen clenches her jaw, “Has no one ever taught you to not wear white at someone else’s wedding?”

Jiwoo gasps, “Your Majesty, this–”

“Mr. Park, please escort Lee Jiwoo-ssi to the residential block and have her get changed before she embarases herself,” the Queen says and walks away, leaving Jiwoo to gawk at her with furious eyes. Wonwoo holds back a smile, hands clasped behind his back.

“Lee Jiwoo-ssi, please follow me,” Mr. Park says and Jiwoo begrudgingly follows him, not before shooting Wonwoo a snide glance.

Wonwoo smiles. He turns around to look at the Queen, watching him from a distance. He nods and she averts her gaze, busying herself in a conversation with the Ambassador from India.

❀❀❀❀

“Congratulations on your wedding!” a woman Wonwoo can't quite place in the plethora of dignitaries says, smiling coyly, “hope the family will be blessed with a baby soon,” she jokes.

Wonwoo doesn't let her words falter his smile and he nods, “thank you,” is all he says as she shakes hands with Jae and moves on. Wonwoo exhales, using the moment to lean onto Jae, his eyes scanning the crowd for a certain figure he hasn't seen since last night on the balcony.

“Tired?” Jae asks, “we still have a long list of guests to get through, love,” he says and Wonwoo sighs. He straightens, turning to his now husband, “I just want to sleep after all of this,” he says and Jaekyung chuckles, “I assure you, there will be no sleeping tonight,” he kisses Wonwoo’s temple, making the younger blush.

“I know the wedding was preponed because of Mingyu’s …whole thing but I'm glad we’re legally wedded for life now,” jaekyung kisses Wonwoo’s hands, making the younger smile. He swallows, “me too,”

“Speaking of which,” Jaekyung looks around, “I haven't seen that brat all day,” he says, referring to Mingyu. Looks like Wonwoo isn't the only one who noticed. Where could Mingyu be? Even from the altar, Wonwoo couldn't spot Mingyu anywhere in the crowd. He's going to have to ask Taehyung.

His eyes however, in the process of searching for Mingyu, gravitate towards another person – an unfamiliar face and an intimidatingly gorgeous face. And that woman, standing out from the crowd, is looking right at the newlyweds, a smile on her face – unsettling, almost. Wonwoo looks away, bringing his attention back to his husband, who seems to have noticed the same woman. His eyes remain glued to her and Wonwoo tries to ignore the stars in his eyes. Before he knows it, Jaekyung’s arm slips out of Wonwoo’s hand and the Alpha walks towards the woman, engulfing her in a tight hug. Wonwoo purses his lips, watching from afar with a troubled heart the hug that feels oddly intimate and lasts a little too long. Wonwoo feels compelled to look away as the two embrace tightly, only looking up when his name is called.

“Wonwoo, come over here,” Jaekyung calls, his arm still around the woman. Wonwoo swallows his stress and walks over, looping an arm around Jaekyung’s. As taught by the Queen, he waits for the woman to greet him.

“Your Royal Highness,” she bows and Wonwoo bows, “Hello,”

“Love, this is Lee Jiwoo. We were batchmates when I was in the States. She’s come back to Korea for the wedding!” Jaekyung exclaims excitedly, enthusiasm in his voice that Wonwoo hasnt seen in quite a while.

“Ah, hello,” Wonwoo smiles, feeling odd, “thank you for coming to our wedding and blessing our union,” he says, “how long are you staying in korea?” he asks. Jaekyung and Jiwoo exchange a glance and laugh, and Wonwoo wonders if he’s missing something.

“Ah, I won't be returning to the States, Your Royal Highness. I wish to pursue an acting career here,” she says, and for some odd reason, it doesn't please Wonwoo. He forces a smile, “wonderful,” he says and Jiwoo smiles, her eyes flickering over to Jaekyung, “Oppa said he would help me out,”

Wonwoo swallows, glancing at Jaekyung’s grin. He feels uncomfortable. He looks away, only to look at Jiwoo’s outfit. She looks like a Princess in that gown, her neck adorned by pearls. Wonwoo looks down at his outfit and purses his lips.

“I did,” Jaekyung laughs and Jiwoo turns to Wonwoo, “we’ll be seeing a lot of each other, Your royal highness. Lets be friends,” she says and Wonwoo purses his lips into a thin smile, “of course,”

And just when wonwoo thinks the conversation has come to an end and he can leave, the Queen summons Jaekyung, gesturing him to go over to her, seemingly to introduce him to the person she’s speaking with.

“Ah, I’ll be right back,” Jaekyung says and excuses himself, leaving Wonwoo alone with Jiwoo. He can't think of any excuses to leave either. As they stand in silence, Wonwoo scans the crowd once again for Mingyu.

Just where is he?

“After the Queen, he will be King, right?” Jiwoo speaks up and Wonwoo turns to her, confused as to why she would bring that up. Wonwoo clears his throat, “Yes,”

Jiwoo just smiles and hums, turning to Wonwoo, her eyes inspecting his outfit. He feels conscious already, but tries to not let it show.

“Ah, such a pretty dress,” she says, to his surprise. Wonwoo blinks, “thank you,” he says. Maybe she isn't half bad after all.

“I know a lot of great tailors who can make good adjustments to the suit. I'll give you the numbers, okay?”

Wonwoo’s heart sinks. He looks down at himself and smiles, “y-yeah, thank you,”

Jiwoo giggles, “can I call you Wonwoo-yah, since I'm older and all? And your husband’s best friend from college, haha,”

Wonwoo swallows. The royal protocol says no one must call him by his name…But he can't bring himself to say no to her. He just smiles, “yeah, okay,”

Jiwoo smiles, turning to look at Jaekyung and the Queen interacting with the guests. Wonwoo does the same, watching as a waiter carrying wine and champagne walks over to the crowd.

“Ah, he’s going to take the champagne,” Jiwoo mutters, and on cue, Jaekyung picks up a glass of Champagne. Of course. Wonwoo knows Jaekyung prefers Champagne over most things.

“Yes,” Wonwoo replies and Jiwoo turns to him, “his allergy can be so annoying,” she says and Wonwoo frowns, turning to her, “huh?”

She raises her brows and chuckles, “Ah, Jaekyung is allergic to Grapes, Wonwoo-yah. Did you not know that?”

Wonwoo blinks dumbly at her, flushed with embarrassment.

Jaekyung is allergic to grapes? Wonwoo had no clue….

“Ah, you'll learn, Wonwoo-yah. Don't worry, okay?” Jiwoo consoles him, patting his arms, “you need to work hard to support him, okay? As time goes, you will learn everything about him. And if there is something you don't understand, you can always ask me, right?” Jiwoo chuckles but her honey-coated voice cannot conceal her poisonous intent. Wonwoo turns to her, wide eyed as she just grins at him.

“I'll see you around, Wonwoo-yah,” she winks and walks away, leaving Wonwoo flummoxed but most importantly, confused and insecure.

❀❀❀❀

“Why did you walk away earlier?” a voice calls and Wonwoo doesnt turn around, staring as the guests begin to settle down for Dinner and the speeches.

“How did you find me here?” Wonwoo asks. He pretty much blends into the crowd thanks to his desk, and was, well, actively trying to avoid Mingyu. Mingyu shrugs, “you stand out,” he says and Wonwoo turns to his side, looking up at Mingyu, “because of the dress?”

Mingyu holds his gaze and shakes his head, “no. Just…you,”

Wonwoo processes those words and looks away, hoping Mingyu can't hear his heart thumping loudly in his chest from where he’s standing. How can he – so effortlessly – so casually just – just say things like that!

As Wonwoo collects himself, Mingyu hums, “it's nearing the end, huh?”

“What is?” Wonwoo asks, crossing his arms as people settle down. He watches as Taehyung and Jungkook kiss each other shyly, officially wed. Wonwoo sighs.

“The day,” MIngyu says.

It sounds ominous and Wonwoo exhales. It's 5 already.

“Yes,” he says, unsure of what Mingyu is trying to imply. The alpha clears his throat, “....once the event is over, everyone will go back home,”

Wonwoo smirks. He knows where Mingyu is going with this.

“Yeah. Taehyung will go to his forever home, and I ... .to mine,” Wonwoo trails off towards the end, “and you to yours, eh?” he scoffs. Mingyu gulps audibly.

“I–”

“You don't have to lie to me this time, Mingyu-yah. You can just go back to Ireland, or wherever you are based,” Wonwoo says bitterly and Mingyu grabs his wrist, “you don't understand!”

Wonwoo turns to face Mingyu properly, “I don't understand what?”

Mingyu purses his lips, brows furrowed uncomfortably. Wonwoo continues, “No, you're right. I don't understand. I didn't understand why you just walked out, or where you disappeared to, or why you even came back! I don't understand!”

Mingyu swallows, tightening his grip on Wonwoo’s wrist, “I had to, okay?!” he chokes out, “i couldn't take it anymore! I just had to get out–”

“Couldn't take what, Mingyu? What was so hard that it compelled you to walk out on us! On me!” Wonwoo tries not to raise his voice, hoping he doesn't attract any attention towards them. Mingyu’s eyes widen at the accusation but he can't bring himself to say anything.

Wonwoo was foolish to wait for answers. He frees himself from Mingyu’s grip and begins to walk away, but the Alpha stops him, yet again, “Come to Ireland with me,”

Wonwoo halts, turning around, “what?”

Mingyu takes a deep breath, gaze determined, “You're right. I ran away, from this house, from you, from my feelings for you–” Wonwoo’s eyes widen, “--but I don't want to do that again. I want to take you with me, back to Ireland. So, come with me, Won,”

Wonwoo watches with his breath held. What feelings?

“Mingyu–”

“I love you,” Mingyu breathes out, and Wonwoo steps closer to him, placing his hands on his lips, “dont,” wonwoo shakes his head, “you– you can't say that now,” Wonwoo chokes, “I’m someone else’s now. It's too late, Mingyu-yah,” Wonwoo’s breathless, overwhelmed, distraught.

Mingyu can't just abandon him, reappear and then proclaim his love for him like this and expect him to elope with him. This is not fair! This is not easy!

Wonwoo’s body trembles as his hands drop to his side. Mingyu doesn't say anything, staring at the top of Wonwoo’s head, spacing out. Wonwoo swallows and looks up, matching Mingyu’s teary eyes, “Im married, Mingyu-yah. To your brother, no less,” Wonwoo says, taking deep breaths, “I–”

“That doesn't matter,” Mingyu interjects, “what matters is that you love me–”

“I never said that!” Wonwoo says, stepping away, “dont…dont do this, Mingyu-yah,”

Wonwoo’s been hurting for 6 years. He doesn't want to hurt more knowing he’s going to lose something precious yet again.

“You don't love me?” Mingyu asks, stepping closer to Wonwoo, and the Omega is grateful they are concealed by the large display of flowers. They're bound to be misunderstood if someone walks in on them.

Wonwoo swallows and Mingyu continues, “if you say you don't love me, I will leave, Won. I’ll go back to Ireland, and you’ll probably never see me again. Just say you don't love me, and I’ll leave,” Mingyu says, fingers lacing with Wonwoo’s, inching closer to his face.

But Wonwoo can't let this decreasing proximity and their racing hearts sway him. He has to put an to this. He can't suffer anymore, he doesn't want Mingyu to suffer either. So, he looks Mingyu dead in the eyes and speaks up, “I don't love you, Kim Mingyu,” he says, voice firm. His determined eyes and resolute voice seem to do it, because Mingyu’s eyes enlarge ever so slightly and he steps back, heartbreak written all over his face. And as the announcement for this speeches in made, Mingyu turns around and walks away, leaving Wonwoo, once again, full of regrets.

❀❀❀❀

“Starting today, he will be your Secretary,” the Queen says, introducing Wonwoo to a man, rather, a boy, who looks straight out of college. He’s dressed in a suit, hands clasped in front of him and eyes sparkly, as if ready to face the day. Wonwoo wishes he had that enthusiasm for life.

Wonwoo bows to the man, “Hello,”

The man, his secretary, bows as well, “Good morning, your royal highness. I am Boo Seungkwan,”

“I shall take my leave then,” the Queen says and the two turn to her, “I will visit Anyang today and return tomorrow. I hope you can take care of things around here and the Office, yes?”

Wonwoo nods, “Yes, Eomonim,” he says and the Queen hums, “very well,” she clears his throat, “don't let work stress you out. Jaekyung will help you out. It will take you some time to get adjusted,”

“Yes, Eomonim,” Wonwoo says and she sighs, looking around, “Where is Jaekyung?”

Wonwoo purses his lips, “He is with Lee Jiwoo-ssi. They apparently went to visit some entertainment agencies,”

The Queen scoffs, “hah, look at her using our name to get offers,”

Wonwoo doesnt reply and the Queen simply exhales, “Have him home by dinner. He mustn't neglect his duties here and at the Office,”

“Yes, Eomonim,” Wonwoo says. The Queen acknowledges Seungkwan and Wonwoo with one last glance and walks away, leaving the two alone. WHen the door shuts behind her, Seungkwan audibly breathes out, making Wonwoo turn to him with a raised brow. The younger man pats his chest, “Wow, I thought i was going to pass out from holding my breath,”

Wonwoo blinks at him and then breaks into a giggle, “why were you holding your breath?”

Seungkwan turns to him, realizing that he’d just said that out loud. He bows again, “I am so sorry, Your majesty! I didn't meant to–”

“It's Your Royal Highness. Your Majesty is the Queen,” Wonwoo corrects gently and Seungkwan turns a bright shade of red, “I–I am so sorry! Please dont execute me publicly!” he rambles and Wonwoo can't help but break into a loud laugh.

“Hey, we don't do those anymore,” he jokes and Seungkwan looks up, fear written all over his face. Wonwoo laughs harder, patting Seungkwan on his shoulder, “Welcome to the family, Seungkwan-ssi,”

The younger nervously gulps as the Prince guides him out of the living room.

“I will show you around,” Wonwoo says, and Seungkwan gasps, “Your Highness, you do not need to trouble yourself. I can –”

“Seungkwan-ah, we’re going to be spending a lot of time together. You don't have to be so formal. I’m not really royalty, y’know?” Wonwoo says, and Seungkwan visibly relaxes.

“Yes, but you are still a Prince, Your Highness. It has nothing to do with blood, y’know,” Seungkwan says, and Wonwoo smiles, “is that so?”

Seunglwan nods, “I mean, you've been a Prince for about a year and you've already surpassed your husband in the popularity rankings. The nation loves you! You were especially exceptional delivering the speech on Independence day!”

Wonwoo laughs.

“Thank you,” he says, remembering how he’d spent days and nights trying to perfect his speech. He’s glad it paid off.

“And what is the popularity ranking? I didn't know there was such a thing,” he says and Seungkwan nods, “Oh, there is. You've been at the top for 3 months now!”

Wonwoo giggles, amused as they enter the residential wing. It's refreshing to speak to Seungkwan. Taehyung has been out of station for a few days now, and Wonwoo spends most of his time at the Office or at home, with the Queen. He hasn't even got the chance to speak to Jae in the last few days. He's been so busy with Jiwoo…

Wonwoo swallows. There it is, that nagging feeling in the back of his head…

Wonwoo shakes his head. Work has been hectic and that's why they've been spending time apart. That's all there is to it. Nothing more.

“Is this the residential wing, Your Highness?” Seungkwan brings Wonwoo out of his thoughts.

“Ah, yes,” Wonwoo smiles, “no one is allowed, except you of course, and certain staff members, like the maids,”

Seungkwan smiles coyly and Wonwoo cocks a brow, “what is it?”

Seungkwan squeals, “Ah, forgive me, Your highness. I was just thinking that your room must be far too intimate for people to be able to access so easily,”

Wonwoo blinks and blushes, “Ah, well,”

Well, its true, that the farthest room in the residential wing, or that area for that matter, belong only to jaekyung and Wonwoo. Even the Queen holds back from encroaching upon their privacy when they're in there. It's their bedroom after all. They're husbands after all. The thought makes Wonwoo smile shyly. Well, it’s been more intimate since the room next to theirs is currently unoccupied. Because….the one who once resided in that room is now gone….

Seungkwan chuckles, “Ah, I've been rooting for you two since the wedding! It was magnificent, by the way, your highness. You looked extraordinary! You and Prince Jaekyung, and even Prince Taehyung! It's unfortunate that the Third Prince didn't attend,”

Wonwoo’s smile drops when he hears that title. The Third Prince, huh? The Third Prince is gone. The Third Prince disappeared over a year ago, never to be heard from again. The Queen flipped the nation inside out to locate him. Meanwhile, Wonwoo couldn't even process the fact that Mingyu just vanished. For a couple of months, there was a full-scale enquiry into the Third Prince’s disappearance, which came to a screeching halt when they received a letter with the royal insignia, reading, ‘ I am safe. Please do not look for me,’

That was all the confirmation they needed to stop the enquiry. The Prince was safe after all. But he didn't want to be found. Efforts were made to trace the letter but it was a dead trail. Mingyu covered up his tracks pretty well. Wonwoo didn't know one could even do that – disappear from the grid for good.

Mingyu’s gone for good and Wonwoo, after months of mulling over his disappearance, chose to move on from it.

Mingyu’s absence is noticeable. It's painful.

But Wonwoo’s chosen to move on from it. He can't spend his time wondering where he’d gone wrong. Or why Mingyu left without saying a word.

As they approach Wonwoo and Jaekyung’s room, Wonwoo halts. Seungkwan turns around, not having noticed a shift in the mood, “Have you heard from him since then, Your Highness?”

“Seungkwan-ssi,” Wonwoo interjects and Seungkwan gasps, “Y-Yes, Your highness?”

Wonwoo smiles, “You should go home for the day. You start tomorrow,”

Seungkwan, confused, steps closer to him, “Did I say something wrong–”

“I will see you tomorrow,” Wonwoo reiterates and the man swallows. His shoulders sag and he bows, “as you wish, Your royal highness,”

With his head lowered, he walks past Wonwoo, exiting the residential wing. And it's then that Wonwoo finally releases the breath he’d been holding and looks up at the door to their bedroom, ajar.

Wonwoos always had sharp ears. Perhaps, that is why, Seungkwan wasn't able to hear the sounds emanating from there.

❀❀❀❀

When Wonwoo emerges from behind the flowers, he sees that everyone has already gathered and settled down, with Taehyung and Jungkook seated on the podium alongside the Queen and….

Jaekyung isn't there, and Wonwoo’s space is empty as well. Wonwoo swallows and hurries over to the podium, taking his seat beside Jaekyung’s empty space, exchanging a glance with the Queen before settling down. Looks like even she is clueless about Jaekyung’s whereabouts.

It's also unfortunate for Wonwoo that seated amidst the guests is Mingyu, in the front seat, looking up at him with heartbroken eyes. Wonwoo dares not to look in his direction, trying to focus on the more important things going on today. He doesn't want to ruin Taehyung’s wedding day. But in the back of his mind, he wonders why Mingyu isn't seated alongside them on the podium.

Wonwoo tries to maintain his grace, tries to keep up his smile because he knows people are watching him, constantly, intensely ... .a little more and he can….go home….

Wonwoo sort of spaces out as Jimin, Taehyung’s best man, gives his speech. He’s tired and drained, and he just wants to….. walk away from all of this for a bit….catch a breath…fall asleep….someplace warm….

“Prince Jaekyung, I’ll pass the mic to you,” Jimin says, and those words snap Wonwoo out of his daze. He looks up as the mic is passed to him, confusion written all over Jimin and the guests’ faces at Jaekyung’s absence. He looks at the Queen, who, with her eyes, urges Wonwoo to take over, as he usually does when Jaekyung pulls stunts like this. Wonwoo can see disappointment written all over the Queen’s eyes, and Wonwoo sighs. But he doesn't let his frustration show and grabs the mic, putting on a smile as he stands up, “Ah, hello, everyone. Jae isn't here right now. He's been feeling under the weather all day, actually,” he chuckles nervously and the crowd seems to buy it, moaning empathetically. Wonwoo’s fingers around the mic tighten and he takes a deep breath, uncomfortable with all of this attention even after 6 years of marriage. But Wonwoo can't let Jaekyung’s carelessness ruin Taehyung’s day, even if it means having to clean up after him like this.

“Beautiful speech, Jimin-ssi,” Wonwoo begins, and Jimin smiles as a round of applause begins. Wonwoo chuckles, bringing his attention to the newlyweds, “Congratulations, Taehyung Hyung and Jungkook-ssi,” he starts off, “and I’d like to officially welcome you to married life,” he says and giggles erupt. Taehyung and Jungkook blush, leaning onto each other. Wonwoo smiles at them and turns to the crowd, “For those who don't know, I’m Jeon Wonwoo,” he says and laughter erupts at the irony. Everybody knows Jeon Wonwoo! Who doesn't?!

It gives Wonwoo a chance to gather his thoughts with a smile on his face, actively trying not to look down at the Alpha sitting in the front.

Wonwoo smiles, “I must say, Jimin-ssi has left me with nothing new to say,” and the crowd laughs again, and so does Jimin, sitting next to Taehyung, who seems to have caught onto Wonwoo’s nervousness. Wonwoo can't let Taehyung worry. Not on his wedding day.

Wonwoo swallows, holding his gaze back from traveling to Mingyu. He tries to stare at a random spot in the back, keeping his mind occupied. He can't look at Mingyu because if he looks at Mingyu he will come undone. The knot in his chest will loosen and…everything will spill out.

“I’ve never quite understood the concept of Soulmates,” Wonwoo begins, “I’ve never had the chance to experience it first hand, you see. I've seen people fall in love, get married and spend their entire lives together. I assumed that's what being soulmates meant. But it wasn't until I saw Taehyung and Jungkook together that I was able to truly comprehend what being soulmates meant,”

Wonwoo feels like he’s rambling, and the crowd is silent and he doesn't know if he's messed up or if he’s spiraling and —

As crisis descends upon him, his eyes naturally look for a figure in the crowd, searching intensely until they find him, even in the dim lighting. Wonwoo’s eyes land on Mingyu, and he stops breathing for a moment. Mingyu, as if noticing Wonwoo’s worry, just pats his chest, as if telling him to calm down, to take deep breaths. And Wonwoo does.

Every muscle in his body relaxes. Every ounce of worry just vanishes from his body when he sees Mingyu. And then, with newfound confidence and eyes glued to Mingyu, he speaks up, “A soulmate is your forever home,” he begins, “a soulmate is the one your heart longs to go back to at the end of the day. It is the person who knows you better than you do yourself. It is the person you think of when you're happy, when you're sad — it's the person who makes you want to live life to fullest, who inspires you, who keeps you going even when you've come to a screeching halt. It's the person who goes the extra mile for you. They’re the noise in your silence, the smile in your anger and the warmth in your cold,” Wonwoo says, his nerves on fire, his eyes moist as he stares at Mingyu, “You feel different around them. When you're with them, the world around you disappears, like you're two kites in the sky. They're the one person who loves you the most, unconditionally, painfully, relentlessly,” Wonwoo breathes out, lips quivering. He looks at no one but Mingyu, overwhelmed. Mingyu watches with wide eyes as Wonwoo continues. Wonwoo doesn't know what he’s saying anymore, or if his words make any sense anymore.

“Not everyone gets to be with their soulmates though,” Wonwoo says, shrugging, “not everyone is that lucky. But soulmates always find each other, if not in this universe then in another” he swallows, finally averting his gaze off Mingyu, turning to Taehyung and Jungkook, “but our newlyweds here have found their way to each other,” he smiles at them and turns to the crowd which begins to clap. Wonwoo licks his lips, smiling as he concludes his speech, “Taehyung and Jungkook give a new intensity to the word ‘soulmate’. Their love transcends dimensions and it goes to show that they’re soulmates in every universe,” he smiles at Taehyung, who mirrors it softly. Wonwoo swallows, eyes flickering down to Mingyu one last time, “Love is the envy of every heart, and I hope that all those who wish for it, get to experience it,” he looks away from Mingyu, turning to the newlyweds, “and I’m glad that Taehyung and Jungkook were able to find that love in each other. Congratulations, you two. On behalf of everyone here, I wish you a long and happy married life. Cheers!” He raises his glass. Almost immediately, Wonwoo is showered with a loud applause. He bows, holding onto his smile for just a little longer, “Thank you everybody for coming. Please bless our newlyweds with a prosperous married life. Enjoy your dinner!” Wonwoo says and hands the mic over to the Queen, settling down on his seat and lowering his gaze, heart racing in his chest. He can hear it in his ears, all other sounds and noises tuned out. As the Queen gives her speech, Wonwoo raises his eyes, gasping when he finds Mingyu already looking at him, a tear trickling down his eye.

When Mingyu stands up, Wonwoo does so as well, excusing himself and hurrying off the podium. Before Mingyu can catch up to him, he runs off in the other direction, too cowardly to face Mingyu, or his feelings.

❀❀❀❀

They say a lover’s instinct is rarely wrong.

They say if you think he’s cheating, he most likely is.

And while Wonwoo’s senses scream at him the truth, he holds onto the hope that this is all just a silly, little nightmare spun together by his unstable brain. That the sounds emanating from their bedroom aren't moans, that the room is actually empty and Wonwoo’s mind is playing games with him. But the closer he treads towards the door, the crueler the reality gets.

And the funny thing, he can't even convince himself that Jaekyung, the supposed love of his life and the man he pledged his forever to, is free of vices like this. Because deep down, Wonwoo knows the kind of man Jaekyung is, excited by new things, by pretty things, lusting after them, driven by the spirit to conquer rather than to love.

Wonwoo doesn't have to wonder who Jaekyung is with. He knows.

He also knows why they're in their bedroom. No one was supposed to be home today. ONly, Wonwoo was summoned back home to meet Seungkwan, and for that, he’s not thankful enough because perhaps this reality check really is what he needed.

His trembling hand pushes open the door, just enough to be able to take a peek inside. His view only confirms the doubts he’d been harborning in his heart ever since he met Jiwoo. Wonwoo freezes, watching in horror as Jaekyung and Jiwoo —

The sight makes him heave and he steps away, shaking all over. He knew it, he knew it all along so…so why….

He turns around and runs, dizzy and delirious. He doesn't know where he’s going, he doesn't know where he wants to go. But for some reason, his feet take him to a room just down the hallway, now abandoned and empty owing to its owner’s alleged disappearance. It's the only place he can think of as his heart shatters into a million little pieces, as he seeks comfort and solace. He pushes open the doors and runs towards the washroom, hurling his guts out when he reaches the toilet seat. He remained keeled over the toilet seat for a good while, trembling as his brain and heart fully processed the information.

He stands up, legs wobbly as he walks over to the sink to clean his mouth. But when he looks up and comes face to face with the idiot who agreed to marry Jaekyung, who set aside his career and his family for a man with abysmal integrity, who was not good enough, not omega enough, not pretty enough, not smart enough, he feels anger. So much anger that Wonwoo punches the mirror in a fit of rage, feeling warm blood trickle down his injured knuckles. And like the blood, he too sinks to the bathroom floor, burying his face in his hands as tears pour out.

“Hyung!” a voice calls, and Wonwoo’s head whips up to see Seungkwan standing in the doorway, seemingly out of breath.

“Found you…” he breathes out, kneeling next to Wonwoo and holding up his injured hand, gasping at the shards of glass embedded in it, “I saw the bedroom and…”

Wonwoo tenses, glancing nervously at Seungkwan. He saw? So he…he knows?

This….this the last thing Wonwoo needed….for some random stranger to find out he got cheated on..in their bedroom….the one place that was theirs, the one place Wonwoo called home….

But much to Wonwoo’s surprise, Seungkwan just pulls him into a tight hug, sniffling, “Hyung, I’m so sorry,”

It's all he says, all he chants and it's all it takes for Wonwoo to melt in his embrace and cry his heart out.

❀❀❀❀

Some people never really change.

Once a weasel, always a weasel.

“Where?” Wonwoo asks when he enters their palace, heading over to the Residential wing. Seungkwan follows him with his head lowered, “bedroom, Hyung,”

Wonwoo smirks as Seungkwan halts as they enter the residential wing. Wonwoo turns around and extends his arm, urging Seungkwan to hand over to him the papers in his hand. His secretary does so, and after a silent exchange of glances, Wonwoo turns around and heads straight to their bedroom – to the bedroom once reserved for the Prince and the Prince Consort.

As Wonwoo approaches the room, familiar sounds reach his ears. This time, however, he doesn't intend to turn around and run away, throw up in Mingyu’s room and break mirrors. This time, he’s going to break something else.

Wonwoo doesn't hesitate one bit as he kicks open the door, walking in as Jaekyung and Jiwoo jump away from each other, scurrying to get dressed now that they’ve been caught. Wonwoo waits as their naked bodies untangle and their guilty eyes process the fact that it's none other than Wonwoo who caught them. Wonwoo maintains a poker face as his beloved, his Alpha, his Prince, lies in bed with a woman.

Wonwoo can only smirk. He would be lying if he said he didn't expect to find Jaekyung in bed with another woman on the day of his brother’s wedding.

“Won–Wonwoo-yah,” Jaekyung clears his throat as Jiwoo grabs her dress, trying to cover up and get off the bed. Wonwoo scoffs, grabbing a champagne glass from the table. He admires its make, smiling, “Ah, it's been so long since you said my name, Honey,” he says, shucking the glass at Jiwoo’s feet. The lady yelps and jumps as shards of glass spread everywhere.

“Yah! You'll hurt her! Jakeyung says and Wonwoo huffs, throwing another glass, this time at Jaekyung’s head. The man ducks, but the glass hits the wall and shatters once more, sending shards to rain on the treacherous pair. Jiwoo jumps into Jaekyung’s arms as Wonwoo throws more glasses at the feet of the bed, effectively limiting their movement by adorning the area with sharp shards of glass. The two look up at Wonwoo with angry and guilty eyes, “What are you doing! Are you trying to kill us?! Wait till Mother hears about this!” Jaekyung yells and Wonwoo can't help but laugh out loud. He pulls a chair and settles down on it, “Go on, call Eomonim. I’d like to see you explain to her what happened,” he says, eyes narrowed and gaze challenging. Jaekyung swallows, exchanging a nervous glance with Jiwoo.

Wonwoo stands up, cocking a brow, “Thought so,” he smiles and walks out the room, urging Jaekyung to chase after him. The cowardly, conniving alpha skillfully jumps across the moat of glass-shards and runs after Wonwoo, wearing his trousers on the way out. He catches up to Wonwoo just as the OMega walks into his room.

“Stop! I can explain!” he says and Wonwoo huffs, turning around and shoving the papers into his chest, “I don't need your explanation. I need your signature,” he says, shoving a pen into his chest as well.

“Wha–” Jaekyung grabs the papers and the pen, glancing through it and looking up at Wonwoo with confused eyes, “you're divorcing me?!”

Wonwoo smirks, “Technically, yes. But consider this an annulment because our marriage was essentially a sham,”

Jaekyung grabs Wonwoo’s arm, “yah! What the fuck do you think youre doing?!” but Wonwoo frees himself, shoving Jaekyung away, “sign the papers or wait for the Queen to find out that her son turned out to be trash just like her cheating husband,”

And pain erupts in Wonwoo’s jaw, sending him barelling to the ground. He looks up at Jaekyung, smirking as the man catches his breath after punching Wonwoo. The omega swipes a thumb across his lips, blood tinting his finger. He just smirks, “you hit me,” he smiles and Jaekyung gulps, overwhelmed.

“You…you asked for it,” he breathes and Wonwoo laughs out loud, his gut hurting from it all. He simply gathers the papers Jaekyung had dropped and places them on the table, “sign it,” he threatens and Jaekyung swallows, shifting his stance, “it’ll….it’ll ruin her life if we go public with it,”

Wonwoo gasps, and his gasp turns into laughter, “even now, all you can think is about her,”

Jaekyung turns to him, “fuck, yes! And so what! What is more important to me than her?!”

Wonwoo’s eyes widen, “what about your fucking husband?! The man you proposed to at that beautiful cabin?!”

Jaekyung huffs, running a hand through his hair, pacing around the room anxiously, “you…”

“Why her?” Wonwoo questions, “why her, Jae? Why? Why did you fucking cheat on me with her?!” he shoves Jaekyung again, and that's his breaking point, “because I love her!” he yells, “i love her! I always have and I always will!”

Wonwoo takes deep breaths, surprised by his outburst.

“Breaking up with her was the worst mistake of my life,” Jaekyung says, “second only to marrying you,”

Those words pierce Wonwoo’s heart like a dagger dipped in acid. He swallows, tears brimming in his eyes as he smiles at his misfortune, “why…why then…why did you marry me?” he asks, and Jaekyung looks up, “Eomma compelled me to! She said she would accept no one other than you as my mate. I was going to break up with you, damnit! And you had a degree in finance, which meant you could take over the company, so when I became King, I wouldn't have to worry about it,”

Wonwoo scoffs, tears trickling down his cheeks. He feels like such a fool…

“And Jiwoo, she–” Jaekyung chokes up, “she and I are meant to be. You were just an unfortunate kink in our relationship,”

Wonwoo smirks through his tears, nodding as he tries to process those hurtful words, “sign the papers,” he says and Jaekyung’s eyes widen, “what?”

“You don't expect me to remain married to you after all that you said to me, do you?” Wonwoo asks, grabbing the papers and flinging them at Jaekyung’s face.

“We…we can talk this through, Wonwoo-yah. This..this is just a fight…” he says and Wonwoo shakes his head, “get out,” he says and jaekyung swallows, “if we get divorced then–”

“Get the fuck out of my room!” he yells, but Jaekyung remains unfazed. Wonwoo stares at the man in disbelief, and decides to walk past him instead. Jaekyung grabs his wrist roughly, attempting to subdue Wonwoo but he’s done being underestimated. He grabs Jaekyung’s collar and throws him over his shoulder, dropping him to the ground.

Jaekyung, surprised, just groans painfully as Wonwoo storms out of the room, wiping his tears. Wonwoo makes it to the entrance and is about to get into his car when Seungkwan stops him, “Hyung, there’s someone here to meet you,” he says and Wonwoo shakes his head, “no, I haven't got the time to–”

But from behind Seungkwan pops out a man, and Wonwoo gasps when he recognises him.

“Beomseok-ssi,” Wonwoo breathes out, wiping his cheeks to clear them of any tear stains and closes the door to his car, walking over to the man. Beomseok hyung was Mingyu’s bodyguard when they were still in the University. But shortly after Wonwoo’s engagement, Beomseok resigned. This is the first he’s seeing of him in 6 whole years.

The man smiles, bowing to Wonwoo, “Hello, Your royal highness,” he says and Wonwoo smiles, “Beomseok-hyung, it's good to see you,” he says. Now that Wonwoo’s a prince, he can't really hug the man, at least not in front of people.

“You too, Your royal highness,” he says and Wonwoo swallows, “I uh, what are you doing here?” he lowers his voice, stepping to the side, away from the drivers and the royal servants.

“I um, I have an important errand to run. Can this wait till tomorrow?” Wonwoo asks quickly. He just wants to get away from here as quickly as possible.

Beomseok’s smile fades and he lowers his gaze, “Your Royal Highness, please give me 2 minutes of your time. This servant wishes to be absolved of the guilt he has harbored for 6 years,”

Wonwoo frowns, glancing at Seungkwan, who promptly ushers the other staff members out of here, giving the two some privacy. Wonwoo swallows, “guilt? What is going on?”

Beomseok gulps, “your highness, after I resigned, I went back to my hometown to focus on farming. But I saw on the news that the young master had returned,”

Wonwoo nods, “Yes, uh, Mingyu, he….”

Beomseok nods, “his return compelled me to travel back to Seoul and come clean about everything,”

Wonwoo’s heart picks up pace, beating in anticipation, “what is it?” he asks and Beomseok purses his lips nervously, “The guilt has been eating me up, Wonwoo-yah,” he says, dropping the honorifics, “please forgive me if you can,” he says, eyes moist. Wonwoo clenches his fist, “Hyung, what is it–”

“All those years ago, when I came to take you to the cabin in the woods, where the Second Prince proposed to you,”

Wonwoo’s throat runs dry, “yes?”

Beomseok shakes his head, shrinking, “that note was written by the Third Prince, not the Second,”

And at once, everything around Wonwoo dulls. His eyes widen as Beomseok continues, “the Third Prince had asked me to relay that message to you and take you to…Namsan mountain but the Second Prince caught me and…threatened me to…bring you to the cabin where he proposed to you that day,”

Wonwoo’s heart beats loudly in his chest, throbbing intensely in his throat and gut and limbs and everywhere else. His fingers go numb as Beomseok continues, “The Third Prince waited for you at the mountain all day, in the freezing cold, Your Highness,” his voice chokes, “I couldn't bring myself to face him after what I’d done, but I couldn't watch him wait for you like that. And when I told him that…you’d gotten engaged, he….”

The sound of a car approaching lulls Wonwoo out of his daze, making him turn to the side and see Mingyu stepping out of the car. Beomseok continues as Wonwoo’s gaze locks into Mingyu’s, “he broke down and couldn't stop crying. After that, he fell into the habit of drinking and I…I should've said something before it ruined his life but…I just ran away, like a coward. I…I’m so sorry, your highness,” Beomseok says, voice trembling as tears begin to pout from his eyes. Wonwoo just stares at Mingyu, who seems to have caught on with what’s happening.

“Thank you for telling me, Beomseok-ssi,” Wonwoo finally looks away from Mingyu, “I have to go now,” he says and before Beomseok can protest, Wonwoo runs inside, before Mingyu, or the other staff can see his tears. With tears hazing his vision and his heart threatening to rip out of his chest, Wonwoo runs back to his room, thankfully devoid of Jaekyung, and shuts the door behind him, sliding to the floor as tears spill from his eyes, his body trembling, unable to bear the brunt of the revelations.

Mingyu what?

Since when…

And that proposal…

Everything falls into place. The pieces connect themselves in Wonwoo’s brain, forming the big picture. It was never about love, it was never about what was right for the throne. Wonwoo and Jaekyung’s marriage is based on Jaekyung’s need to one-up Mingyu in every aspect of his life.

Wonwoo was just a pawn in the grand scheme of things.

He promised himself he wouldn't cry today but he buries his face in his hands as tears storm out of his eyes, crying not simply because his life was ruined, but because it was for a silly sibling rivalry. Had it not been for Jaekyung, then Wonwoo would’ve met Mingyu on the mountain and….

All attempts to wipe his face end in failure, more tears replacing the old ones as Wonwoo shakes violently.

“Won?” comes a knock and Wonwoo tenses. Its Mingyu.

“Wonwoo, open the door, please,” he pleads as Wonwoo slaps his hands to his mouth, scared to even let out a squeak. He can't face Mingyu now…

He hears Mingyu sigh, “I…whatever Beomseok Hyung said is correct,”

Wonwoo’s heart shatters. Mingyu continues, “I….i was going to propose to you that day. You and Jaekyung Hyung were not official and I just….I didn't want to live with regrets of never trying. But things….turned out differently and…it sent me down a spiral and it ultimately hurt you. I’m sorry, Wonwoo,”

Wonwoo swallows, shaking his head. This..this cant…

“I knew that I would have to kill my feelings for you if I wanted to stay by your side,” Mingyu says, “but my feelings for you were connected to my memories of you and I…I couldnt get rid of them. It killed me to see you and Jaekyung and…I just had to leave,”

Wonwoo sniffles, unable to stop his tears.

“My feelings haven't changed,” Mingyu says, “and I was ready to walk away once more but that speech back at the wedding…I just…to me it seemed that maybe just maybe, my feelings were reciprocated. Was that the case, Won?”

Wonwoo does not dare speak up. He can't…he just….

“Wonwoo, please,” he knocks again, “I…I have a flight to catch in 3 hours. I’m going back to Ireland tonight,”

Wonwoo gasps.

“I will give my flight details to Seungkwan. I…I’ve booked two tickets, one in your name. If you…if you can't take it anymore, if you want to disappear, if you want to walk away from it all, come with me, Won-ah. I’ll take you someplace far, I’ll keep you happy. I'll cherish you how you deserve to be cherished. Just…give me a chance, Wonwoo-yah. I…I love you,”

Wonwoo’s lips quiver as tears roll down his cheeks. He sniffles, shaking his head in disbelief.

“I…I’ll wait for you,” Mingyu says, “in 3 hours I…I hope to see you again,”

Wonwoo swallows. What should he do…what…

“If not, this is goodbye, Won-ah. This is the last you'll be seeing of me,”

Wonwoo gasps, looking up.

“The reason I came back here….it was to forfeit my title as the Third and the Youngest Prince of Korea. I’m breaking my affiliation with the Royal family forever. It was finalized this morning. I told Eomma,”

……what?

Mingyu’s….not going to be a Prince anymore?

Is that why the Queen…..

“Won, say something,” Mingyu whispers, but Wonwoo’s too overwhelmed with what has been happening these last few days, these last few months and even years…

“I want to be your forever home, Wonwoo-yah. And I want you to be mine,” Mingyu says, “and I'm willing to wait for you my entire life,”

Wonwoo’s eyes feel heavy, no energy left in his body.

“3 hours, Won. or else, this is goodbye,” Mingyu says and Wonwoo hears the footsteps receding in the distance as sleep takes over his body. And as his eyes close, a tear trickles down his cheek.

It's…too late…

❀❀❀❀

“Hey,” a voice calls, and Wonwoo’s eyes flutter open. He blinks away his sleep, a face coming into focus. Mingyu’s. The man smiles as Wonwoo takes note of his surroundings – he can hear the wind, smell the ocean and feel the warmth of sunlight.

“Hey, sleepyhead,” Mingyu says, leaning in to kiss Wonwoo’s forehead. Wonwoo frowns, sitting up as MIngyu pulls away from his face and wraps his arms around his waist, resting his head on his lap, “stay,” he says and Wonwoo looks down at him, “where are we?”

Mingyu raises his brows, “are you still sleepy?”

Wonwoo furrows his brows and Mingyu chuckles, sitting up as well, leaning onto Wonwoo, “we’re home, silly,”

❀❀❀❀

“Hyung!” a voice calls, jolting Wonwoo awake. The knock on his door is almost desperate and he springs to his feet, opening the door to see Seungkwan on the other side. His secretary visibly relaxes when he realizes he's okay.

“What…what time is it….” Wonwoo asks and Seungkwan exhales, “a little after 11 pm,”

Wonwoo’s eyes widen, “I've been asleep for 2 hours?”

Seungkwan nods, taking Wonwoo by the hand and guiding him out of the room, “Yes. We need to hurry, Hyung,” he says, taking Wonwoo towards the entrance where his car is parked.

“Where….” Wonwoo asks in a daze as he’s seated into a car. Seungkwan gets into the driver’s seat, starting the engine, “the airport,”

Wonwoo snaps out of his trance, “what?”

Seungkwan pulls out of the driveway, “the wedding has wrapped up and the Queen is about to get home. Jiwoo and Jaekyung have left as well. No one knows where you are. You should use this opportunity to elope,” he says as they get onto the road.

“....Seungkwan-ah,”

“No! Stop! I won't let you stop me!” Seungkwan suddenly raises his voice, “I've watched you suffer for 6 years, hyung! I can't do it anymore! You deserve a better life! So please–”

“Seungkwan,” Wonwoo says, firmer this time. Seungkwan halts the car, pulling over. He leans over to the steering, pressing his forehead against it as his shoulders tremble. Wonwoo calls out to him, “are you crying?”

Seungkwan sniffles, “who wouldn't if they knew what you'd been through?”

Wonwoo just blinks, staring at the road ahead. There are several things in his brain, but elopement is not. He takes a deep breath, feeling numb all over.

“Take me to the hospital,” wonwoo says and Suengkwan sits up, “Hyung, but the airport–”

“It's my last order to you, Seungkwan-ah. After all, you're resigning,” Wonwoo says, and Seungkwan gasps, in disbelief. He just stares at Wonwoo’s face, noting his sunken eyes and swollen lips…

Seungkwan simply turns around and starts the engine.

–-

“You look like shit,” Jeonghan says when Wonwoo appears at the door to his cabin. The younger omega raises his hand, showing Jeonghan the champagne he’s holding, “can we talk?”

Jeonghan takes in wonwoo’s appearance, his puffy face, swollen, bloodshot eyes and a busted lip. He just exhales and steps aside, “sure,”

He locks the door behind him as Wonwoo takes a seat, popping open the cork with a pen on Jeonghan’s desk. Jeonghan grabs plastic cups from the counter and places them on the desk, letting Wonwoo fill them to the brim.

With his chin on his hand, Jeonghan stares at Wonwoo, “did you get beaten up?” he asks as Wonwoo chugs the glass of champagne. The man places the cup on the desk and refills it, making Jeonghan sigh, “hello, Prince of Korea, did you get beat up or something? Is something like that even possible at a wedding?”

Wonwoo silently chugs another glass and Jeonghan sighs. He takes a sip as well, and Wonwoo finally speaks up, “Jaekyung hit me,”

Jeonghan’s eyes shoot open, “what?!”

Wonwoo nods, “after i asked him for a divorce,”

“WHAT?!” Jeonghan raises his voice and Wonwoo continues, “after i caught him cheating on me in our bedroom,”

Jeonghan slams his hands on the desk, “what the fuck?” and all Wonwoo can do is take another sip straight from the bottle and smirk. Jeonghan snatches the bottle, “Wonwoo, what happened?”

And for some reason, the moment those words reach Wonwoo’s ears, he starts crying. Jeonghan gasps. He's never….he’s never seen Wonwoo cry before…

“Wonwoo-yah,” Jeonghan, clueless, just comforts the younger man by holding his hand, squeezing it gently, “hey, look at me,” he says and Wonwoo looks up at him through tear-filled eyes. Jeonghan swallows.

“Wonwoo…I’m sorry….” he says and Wonwoo wipes his tears, “no its…its all my fault. Nothing to be sorry about,” he chuckles, and Jeonghan watches with a grim expression. Wonwoo shakes his head, unable to stop his tears from spilling, “I should've known, you know?” he sniffles, “that there…was no love there, ever. It was all just because i was best suited for the position because of my degree and…malleability,”

“Wonwoo–”

“I…I should've known he never loved me. I…should've rejected him. I should've predicted this…I….I should've seen the signs that his heart was never truly with me. That his loyalties lay elsewhere, with another Omega,” Wonwoo chokes up, “it's all my fault. I brought this upon myself so I…I deserve this,” he sobs.

Jeonghan purses his lips. He really doesn't know what to say. So this is why Wonwoo wanted to–

“For years together, I put up with their abuse. He wouldn't mate me, but he wanted me every night…and only because the Queen was pressuring us to have children,” Wonwoo swallows, “I…I’d been on the pill,” he says and Jeonghan gasps. Wonwoo continues, “I…I didn't want to have a child with him, Hyung,” Wonwoo sniffles, “I can't bring a child into a home like this. I can't subject a child to all of this,” he says, rubbing his face with his hands, “I just….what is it about me, Hyung? Is it because I'm not pretty? Because I'm not soft enough, not curvy enough?”

“Wonwoo, this isn't your fault. It’s Jaekyung’s. You can't blame yourself for it,” Jeonghan’s eyes well up with tears. He can't imagine what Wonwoo had to go through. For years together.

“He wouldn't mate me because I was never in his heart. It was always her. And it makes me want to throw up, it gives me the chills because…every time he fucked me, I knew he was thinking of her, and it makes me feel so…cheap,” he says. Jeonghan swallows, “Wonwoo-yah, lets go. We’ll get you a divorce. I’ll confront the Queen with you,”

Wonwoo shakes his head, “We….I’ll be silenced and forced to continue with that life, Hyung. I….I just….I just want to walk away from all of this. I just…I want peace,” he says, squeezing Jeonghan’s hands.

“I feel so helpless, Hyung,” Wonwoo sobs, “nothing goes my way and I just….” he breaks down fully, shaking all over. Jeonghan gulps, embracing Wonwoo tightly, “peace…I can give you peace, Wonwoo-yah,”

Wonwoo pulls back, sniffling as he looks up at Jeonghan, “Huh?”

Jeonghan takes a deep breath, “Yes, I–”

Before Jeonghan can finish, the door opens and Seungkwan hurries in, catching his breath, “Hyung,” he calls and Wonwoo turns around. Seungkwan gulps, “The Queen and Jaekyung…they’re on their way here. 5 minutes,”

Wonwoo turns around to look at Jeonghan, who nods at him in affirmation, “go,” he says and Wonwoo springs to his feet.

“Give me the keys,” he says and Seungkwan nods, following him out of Jeonghan’s office, “here,” he fishes the keys out of his pocket and hands them to Wonwoo, who slips out the back to avoid being recognised by the hotel staff. The two sneak out to the car and Wonwoo gets in. He starts the engine and Seungkwan grabs his arm, “Hyung….where are you going?”

Wonwoo licks his lips and smiles, “you know where,”

Sseungkwan swallows, just staring at Wonwoo for a bit.

“I…I will take care of everything, Hyung. Don't worry, okay?” he says, eyes moist with tears. Wonwoo smiles. He pulls Seungkwan’s face close and leans in to kiss his forehead, “thank you,” he says and a tear rolls down his eye, “please be happy,” he says and Wonwoo smiles, “I will,”

And then, he starts the engine. Seungkwan steps away and Wonwoo pulls out of the driveway, heading for the main road. As he speeds away, in the rear view mirror, he sees a familiar car pulling into the Hospital. A black Rolls Royce. The Queen’s vehicle.

Wonwoo hits the pedal and rushes away as fast as possible. He doesn't care if he’s broken the speed limit, he doesn't care if the cameras catch him. Nothing is going to stop him.

As he gets onto the exit that goes to the Airport, he checks the time. 12:01 am. There’s still time…30 more minutes till…

With newfound vigor, Wonwoo hits the gas, unstoppable.

–-

Mingyu taps his foot nervously, his back facing his gate, eyes searching for the signs of Wonwoo in the crowd, perhaps racing towards him through the airport.

“Sir, I apologize, we cannot wait any longer,” a Stewardess says, and Mingyu turns around, “2 more minutes, please,” he says, gasping when he sees an officer beside her, his hands on his hips and a scowl on his face. Mingyu licks his lips, looking back once more.

“Someone ... .I'm waiting for someone,” Mingyu says, hope oozing out of his body.

While the Stewardess remains silent, the Officer steps in, “Looks like no one’s coming, buddy. Get in,” he says, and Mingyu swallows, hating that he has to accept defeat….

“They can catch the next flight if it's important,” the officer says, gently urging Mingyu into the gate. Mingyu clenches his fists, heart heavy, gut sinking, “no, he’s wont,” he says and turns his back on hope, stepping into the gate.

As Kim Mingyu, once the Third Prince of Korea, walks down the aerobridge to the Airplane, he fails to catch the news on the TV.

“Welcome back to KBS news, everyone. I’m your host, Kim Juhyeon and this just in –” the anchor halts, brows furrowed as she stares at the teleprompter, “is this real?” she asks and her eyes widen. She straightens and clears her throat, speaking up with a somber voice, “this just in, Jeon Wonwoo, Prince consort to the Second Prince of Korea, has…. passed away in a fatal car crash in the Songpa underpass at 12:07 am,”

People gather around the TV as the plane to Ireland leaves the gate, having boarded its last passenger. They watch in shock as a familiar face is televised on the TV next to the distraught news anchor, who sniffles as she delivers one last line to sum it all up, her voice cracking.

“The People’s Prince has died,”

Notes:

Epilogue in 2 weeks time

Chapter 11: Epilogue

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

A nation stands still at the death of its beloved Prince.

Today, it's not citizens or cars that occupy the Royal avenue. It’s bouquets of flowers, extending from the Royal gate to the main road parallel to it. A photograph of the late Prince rests on a pedestal just outside the gate, and people stand by its feet, weeping at the loss of a beautiful soul.

“Your Majesty,” says a voice, and the Queen turns away from the window overlooking the sight, letting the curtains close.

“Yes, Mr.Park?” she says, turning to him with a solemn look. Her secretary lowers his gaze, “its time,” he says. She nods, clearing her throat as she heads out the door. While her statement on the issue had been televised, she is yet to face the citizens. How is she to tell them that she was responsible for the death of their beloved Prince?

She traverses down the long hallway, glancing to her right to take a look at the late Prince’s residential wing – now lacking of any grace – a sight of shame and injustice. A place symbolic of the Queen’s failure.

Seething yet sorrowful, the Queen moves on, heading to the dining room where the rest of her family awaits.

“Dont,” she says softly as the guards move to open the doors to the dining room. It's a sad state of affairs that she has to take deep breaths before meeting her own family.

She nods and the guards open the door. The Queen walks in, and everyone inside bow to her, acknowledging her presence. Her eyes scan the room – she doesn't know why they search for a certain figure by Jaekyung’s side. She knows he’s gone. Her eyes land on Taehyung and Jungkook seated on the other end. Her oldest son’s eyes are bloodshot, and it looks like he hasn't gotten any sleep at all.

“Eomma,” he calls weakly, lips quivering. The Queen looks away, she must remain strong. Her eyes finally land on her second oldest, Kim Jaekyung, his eyes surprisingly red as well. The Queen wonders if it is due to the guilt he harbors or his genuine affection for Wonwoo, if he had any. However, the Queen only feels rage when she sees a figure peek out from behind him – Lee Jiwoo.

“What is that tramp doing here?” the Queen speaks up, evoking gasps from everyone present.

“Your majesty–” Mr.Park tries to intervene but the Queen stomps towards Jaekyung, slapping him across the face.

“Oppa–” Jiwoo yelps, holding onto his arm and the Queen scoffs, “What is he, a child that needs coddling? Step away from him,” she orders, and Jiwoo turns to her, glaring. The Queen smirks, her eyes moist, but furious nonetheless. Jiwoo lowers her head and steps away, giving the Queen and Jaekyung the room. Jaekyung, surprised by his mother’s action, looks up at her with wide eyes, “Eomma–”

“You will address me as Your Majesty,” she states, and Jaekyung gulps, clenching his fists angrily. He just lowers his gaze and the Queen swallows.

“Mr. Park,” she says, extending her hand for him to place a few newspapers and magazines in her hand. She tosses them onto the table, one by one, in front of Jaekyung, “Read the headlines,” she orders. Jaekyung guiltily eyes the magazines, hesitating.

“Read the headlines Kim Jaekyung!” the Queen yells and Jaekyung swallows. He remains frozen in place, cowering in fear. The Queen huffs and grabs the newspapers, shifting through them as she reads the headlines.

“Marriage Misery exposed”

“Prince Wonwoo’s tragic marriage”

“Prince Jaekyung demanded divorce”

“Kim Jaekyung’s illicit affair”

“Lee Jiwoo and Kim Jaekyung caught in bed together”

“Dread, divorce and death – how the royal affair rocked a nation”

Silence prevails as she reads the headlines one by one, tossing the newspapers and magazines back onto the table. Jaekyung keeps his head lowered, and so does Jiwoo. The Queen huffs, “there is not a single headline today mourning the loss of the Prince. Even in his death, you try to overshadow him!”

Jaekyung licks his lips, guilty of what he has been accused of. The Queen knew his second oldest was capable of nothing, but she wished he would learn and grow. That working alongside Wonwoo, who was more Prince-like than Jaekyung could ever be, Jaekyung would learn to rule.

“Eomonim,” Jiwoo intervenes, “this will die down. We can work this out. Like with the youngest Prince’s scandal, we can distract the nation from it. A marriage, or the announcement of a grandchild–” but the Queen silences her, slapping her across the face, same as Jaekyung.

“You wish to steal from my son-in-law yet again! How dare you?!” she raises her voice, seething at the audacity of this lowly woman. Jiwoo holds her cheek, shocked by the Queen’s outburst. She turns to Jaekyung, but the latter keeps his head lowered. Her eyes widen in betrayal and she lowers her head. The Queen huffs, “you will never be him,” she says, “and I will never bless your union. A union solemnized on the grave of another is doomed to be cursed. I will make sure of it!” she says, and Jiwoo trembles in anger.

The Queen turns around, “Let us go, Mr. Park,” she says, and the man follows her out of the dining room.

She halts by the main entrance, her eyes taking in the sight of people by the gate, mourning the loss of the People’s Prince. She takes a deep breath, closing her eyes. After she’d heard from Mr. Park that certain events had transpired that needed attention, the Queen promptly left the wedding, only to find out that Wonwoo had gone missing. It was obvious that the latter had caught on, or that he had enough. All the Queen wanted was to see him – talk to him. But who knew the last she would see of him was with sorrowful eyes and pitiful posture as he gave possibly the last speech of his life. The next thing she knows, Wonwoo’s car that they had been following skids and flips, dropping to the road before erupting in flames.

Her son-in-law died in front of her eyes and there was nothing she could do about it.

“Eomonim,” a voice calls, and the Queen gasps when she feels someone touch her hand. She looks up to the side, hoping to see the owner of that deep, baritone voice. But there is no one there. The Queen blinks, eyes moist as she lowers her gaze. She takes deep breaths, shaking her head.

“Open the door,” she says and the guards comply. She steps down the stairs and walks towards the gate.

–

A little girl holds onto her weeping mom’s hand, looking around at other people crying as well, some on the streets, some by the photoframe of a handsome oppa. She blinks, confused.

Why is everyone crying? Why is that Oppa’s photograph there? Why are there so many roses?

“Eomma,” she calls, and her mother turns to her, sniffling, “hana-yah,” she takes Hana in her arms, holding her in a tight embrace. Hana doesn't understand why Eomma is sad. What happened?

“Who is he, Eomma?” Hana asks, staring at the photograph of that oppa. Her Eomma sniffles, “that Oppa is–was our Prince, Hana-yah,”

Hana blinks, “Prince? He was a Prince? He is very handsome!”

Eomma chuckles sadly, patting Hana’s back, “He is. He was also very kind and generous. He…he saved your life, Hana-yah,”

Hana pulls away, staring at her Eomma, “huh?”

Eomma smiles, “remember when you….you were asleep…” Eomma chokes, “when you were asleep for a very long time, Hana-yah? Eomma was worried that….” Eomma looks away, “that Oppa raised money for you, and so many other kids,”

Hana blinks, “and then I woke up from sleep?” she asks and Eomma nods, “because of that man,”

Hana looks at the Photograph of the man, warmth filling her chest.

“Where is he now?” she asks and a tear rolls down Eomma’s eyes, “he uh, he is asleep,” she says, voice trembling.

“WHen will he wake up then?” Hana asks, and Eomma begins to cry again. She hugs Hana tightly, weeping into her little embrace. Hana hugs her Mom back tightly. He must be a good man if Eomma is crying so much.

Hana looks around. It isn't just Eomma who is crying. So many other people are as well. He must be a very good man then. Hana wonders when he will wake up again.

After a few moments, Hana’s eyes spot tall men dressed in black walking into the crowd. She watches curiously as they surround an old, short lady, walking towards the photograph.

“Eomma, who is that?” Hana asks and Eomma turns, gasping.

“That’s the Queen, Hana-yah,” she whispers, and Hana blinks at the old woman, standing silently in front of the photograph, staring at the handsome Oppa. And then, she slowly lowers herself to the ground, evoking gasps from the people around. Those tall men attempt to raise her up but she dismisses them with a wave, already on her knees. And then she bends forth, placing her forehead on the ground.

Hana’s Eomma gasps and Hana turns to her, “what happened?”

Eomma swallows, staring at the Queen.

“A Queen bows to no one,”

Her bodyguards help her up, and she sniffles, covertly wiping her tears, overwhelmed by guilt and emotion at the sight of her late son-in-law, compelled to kowtow in his presence.

She takes a look around at the people, some watching her with scorn, others with tears. She is not ready to face them just yet and simply acknowledges them with a nod before heading back to the palace. As she walks away from the photograph, Taehyung, Jungkook, Jaekyung and Jiwoo make their way towards it. The Queen pauses, turning as Taehyung and Jungkook pay respects to Wonwoo, with Taehyung breaking down at the sight of it all. The Queen is happy that Taehyung has Jungkook by his side to support him. But as Jaekyung and Jiwoo walk over to the photograph, rage bubbles in her heart. She knows it's not just her, glancing at the citizens, their faces smeared with anger. Jaekyung and Jiwoo do not dare turn to look at the crowd and attempt to hurriedly walk away. But the citizens are not as forgiving as the Queen, plucking the petals off the roses and tossing at their feet the thorny stems, a symbol of their disapproval. The petals are then deposited around Wonwoo’s photograph.

Jaekyung and Jiwoo remain frozen under the scrutiny of the crowd as thorny stems gather by their feet.

The Queen simply turns around and walks back into the palace.

“Mr. Park,” she calls, “where are Wonwoo’s parents?”

“They did not want to be disturbed, Your Majesty,” Mr.park hesitantly says, “they have organized a private funeral. Friends and family only,”

The Queen’s heart sinks, “Did we get an invite?”

“Np, Your Majesty,” Mr.Park says. She swallows. She is ont surprised. This was bound to happen.

“What about Jaekyung?” she asks.

“No one from the family was invited, Your Majesty. Except…”

The Queen halts, “except?”

Mr. Park swallows nervously, “Mingyu,”

She falls silent for a moment, “I see,” she says. She begins to walk again, “Should we let him know, Your Majesty? About…”

The Queen gulps, “I’m sure he…already knows,” she clenches her jaw, fisting her hands. Mr.Park exhales, “do you think he will come back, Your Majesty?”

The Queen smiles, a tear rolling down her cheek, “that child doesn't want anything to do with us anymore, Mr. Park. We….we should respect that,”

Mr.Park hums, “very well, Your Majesty,”

The Queen doesn’t wish to live with regrets anymore.

“The paperwork has already been processed,” Mingyu says as the Queen remains seated on the chair, distraught by the news.

“I…I never approved this,” the Queen says, clutching a piece of paper in her hands, staring at her youngest son, speechless. The man however, shows no signs of emotion on his face.

“As per the rulebook, relinquishing the royal status does not require the approval of the Premier,” Mingyu says, and the Queen swallows, eyes welling with tears.

“Is this….is this why you came back after all these years?” she asks, staring at the paper in her hands. Mingyu gulps, looking away, “yes,”

“To break ties with your family?!” she raises her voice, overwhelmed. Mingyu smirks, lowering his gaze, “what family, Eomma?” he speaks up, voice trembling. The Queen gasps and MIngyu continues, “I’ve never felt like part of the family here, Eomma! I've never even felt like home here, Eomma!”

The Queen just listens, blinking at him through tears, “Mingyu-yah–”

Mingyu laughs, “you've never once called me that, you know? I’ve always been a trouble child in your eyes, even though i tried really hard to get your approval and praise! What child needs to work so hard to feel worthy of their parent’s attention and affection, Eomma?!”

The Queen lowers her gaze, fully weeping. Mingyu just huffs, looking away, “Just ...just let me go, Eomma. I've been gone six years and I'm sure you've gotten used to my absence. In no time, you'll forget you even had a third child,” Mingyu says and the Queen springs to her feet, “Mingyu don't say that!”

Mingyu purses his lips, eyes red from tears. He looks away, smiling, “I know it was hard for you, Eomma. To care of everything after…after Dad…” the Queen gasps.

“And I know why it was me that…became the black sheep of the family–”

“Mingyu–”

“-- but I wished that aside from being the Queen, you’d be my Mother as well,”

The Queen cries into her hands, “Mingyu-yah, Eomma is…is so sorry,”

Mingyu licks his lips, “I know,” he smiles, “I’m sorry too, for leaving. But…I have to,” he says, walking over to her and embracing her. She hugs him back immediately, tears spoiling from eyes when she feels a warm pair of lips kiss her head. WHen was the last time she felt such warmth?

Mingyu pulls away, hiding his tears from her.

“Just treat people around you with care, Eomma. The pace they call home shouldn't feel so suffocating,” Mingyu says.

This time, the Queen doesn't stop him when he turns around and walks away.

❀❀❀❀

All Mingyu wanted in his twisted life was some normalcy.

It’s hard to believe but they were once a happy family. The family of five was inseparable, tightly knit and an envy of many eyes. Or at least that’s what Mingyu assumed, given that he was only around 10 when it all went south.

Mingyu was loved by all. But most of all by his father. The earliest memory Mingyu has is of his father picking him up in his arms.

Mingyu loved his father as well, dearly and passionately. At the time, Mingyu assumed that his father was the ideal man, the ideal father, the ideal husband and the ideal king, so much so that it influenced Mingyu into wishing to be King one day.

But that daydream soon turned into a nightmare.

Mingyu was only 10, blissfully unaware of the bigger picture and background forces influencing their family dynamics. Taehyung and Mingyu had always been close, but Jaekyung doesn’t seem to reciprocate that.

It was only later that Mingyu realized Jaekyung was envious of his bond with their father. At the time, Mingyu didn’t think much of it. But he felt a heavy shift in how things worked around the house.

There was a distance between his parents. Their smiles felt forced and most importantly, they wouldn’t even look each other in the eye. Mingyu knew his parents fought. But they always get over it soon. But this fight seemed to last weeks, months even.

And then, all hell broke loose when it all came out to the top.

His Father’s infidelity.

Mingyu doesn’t remember the details but what he remembers for sure is that his Father had written a letter addressed to his Mother, stating reasons as to why he abruptly eloped in the middle of the night, and how the Queen must take over.

Mingyu was the messenger, who had delivered that letter to his Mother.

Perhaps that is why he had to bear the brunt of the anger his Mother felt for his father.

Mingyu doesn’t remember what happened — how people reacted — he only remembers that since that day, not only did he lose a father, he also lost a Mother.

The Queen treated Mingyu differently, something Jaekyung enjoyed since the tide had shifted in his favour. The only person who remained by Mingyu’s side was Taehyung, whose value Mingyu didn’t recognise back then because all he did for the next ten years was desperately seek Mother’s approval, for all of it to be in vain as all Mother cared about was the reputation of the Royal family which her husband had tarnished.

Mingyu toiled for years, always at the top of his class, winning every race, every quiz, every game — only for it to go acknowledged or even belittled.

Eventually, that flame burning inside Mingyu, fuelling his efforts to be acknowledged, to be loved, to be valued — died. Soon, his desire to be King, as meek as it was, also faded.

He felt asphyxiated in the place he called home. He felt unwelcome by the people he called family.

He didn’t miss his Father, not ever.

He is the man who caused Mingyu this misery. He is the man who broke up the family. He is the man who loved someone else enough to run off. But Mingyu can’t even be mad at him because he soon met his fate, passing away in an accident only hours later.

Mingyu had no one to turn to — not his friends who ogled at his status, not his family that blamed him for their misery, not his relatives who remained silent bystanders to it all.

At the end, all Mingyu wanted was some normalcy in his pathetically twisted life.

Wonwoo was that normalcy.

Wonwoo was his sun in the winter sky.

Seungcheol sprints up the stairs leading into the villa, cursing at his phone – particularly at Hansol for not answering his calls. Seungcheol just got off a 20 hour flight and his plan was to take a few days off to rest. But then, he heard the news.

Jeon Wonwoo, Prince of Korea, is dead.

If Seungcheol heard it, he’s sure MIngyu heard as well. And if MIngyu heard then….there is no saying how the man will react.

Seungcheol punches in the code and walks into the villa, seemingly empty and dim. He looks around, searching for the switch to turn on the lights. When he turns on the lights, he sees the state of the living room, shoes and luggage spread across the floor, thrown carelessly. There’s a distinct smell of alcohol lingering in the air, and the sound of TV emanating from the bedroom above. Seungcheol swallows the thick knot in his throat and walks up the stairs, past the single photograph resting on the wall along the stairs – that of a certain Prince, from his younger years, taken somewhere in the mountains. Seungcheol stares at the picture and sighs.

Why isn't Hansol picking up?!

“Mingyu-yah,” Seungcheol calls as he reaches the first floor, walking down the long hallway towards the sound of a television. Voices become clear as Seungcheol’s heart thumps loudly in his chest, his fingers trembling.

He doesn’t know what to expect when he crosses the threshold of that door.

He’s terrified.

Because he knows Mingyu can be irrational when it involves the Prince.

Seungcheol waits by the gate, scrolling mindlessly through his phone, occasionally checking up on the Stock market status. He sighs, closing his phone when he realises that he might lose the money he invested. He groans, rubbing his face.

At this rate, he’s going to go bankrupt.

“You should invest in Kim enterprises,” a voice says, and Seungcheol turns to the man sitting beside him, who looks rather young. Seungcheol cocks a brow, “Kim Enterprises? You mean the Royal family’s company?” he scoffs and the man, oddly familiar, nods, “yes,”

Seungcheol shakes his head, “You know that it’s been incurring losses, right?”

The man nods, “yes. But its stock price will go up very soon. You should buy the stock now,”

Seungcheol frowns at the man’s persistence, “what is your logic?”

The man shrugs, “There is going to be a change in their staff. The new CFO,” he pauses for a second, smiling to himself, “is capable of miracles,”

Seungcheol cocks a brow, “your confidence in a complete stranger is remarkable,” and the man smiles, “he’s not a stranger. He’s a friend,”

Seungcheol huffs, “ah, did he recruit you to gather investors?”

The man smirks, “he’s too proud to do that. So no, he did not recruit me. I am just giving you a headstart,”

Seungcheol scoffs, “easier said than done. Lets see you own stock in the company. Then will we talk,” he says. But the man just smiles, “I own 20% already,”

Seungcheol whips his head to the side, “what? That’s not possible – only the royals are allowed to–” and then his eyes widen, his brain finally registering this man’s appearance. The man just watches him with an obvious smile. Seungcheol swallows, “what's your name?”

The man grins, “Kim Mingyu,”

Their friendship might not have solidified in that airport that day, but it did lead to them brainstorming together and coming up with the idea of starting a company. Mingyu, without a second thought, followed Seungcheol to Ireland, where they set up their semiconductor startup.

Seungcheol’s confidence in Mingyu intensified when the stock prices for Kim Enterprises skyrocketed a few months later. Since then, the two have been inseparable and have risen to the top together. They’re already a unicorn company, and the sky's the limit.

They have seen highs and lows together and have forged an iron-clad friendship.

They've both changed in many ways but the one thing that has remained constant in Mingyu is his love for his friend, rather, brother-in-law, Wonwoo. Never has Mingyu wavered once in what he feels toward Wonwoo. That picture on the wall is proof of his undying love for the man.

But what now that the man is dead?

“Mingyu-yah,” Seungcheol calls, knocking on the open door, gasping when he sees Mingyu standing in the middle of the dark room, facing his television which is playing the Korean News. Seungcheol’s heart skips a beat and he takes a step closer to Mingyu, “hey, I heard what happened so I….”

Seungcheol swallows, terrified that Mingyu hasn't responded to him yet, staring blankly into the screen, at the scenes at the Royal avenue, of weeping citizens and beds of flowers at the feet of Jeon Wonwoo’s portrait. Seungcheol’s eyes moisten and he places a hand on Mingyu’s shoulder, turning him around, “Mingyu-yah,” he calls softly, hands trembling as he gets a good look at MIngyu’s face, eyes swollen, bloodshot even, lips chapped and bags under his eyes. Fatigue smears his face, his eyes devoid of that cheerful light.

“Mingyu,” he calls again, and lifeless pupils turn to him, lips unresponsive. Seunghceol gulps and pulls MIngyu into a hug, “hey, say something,” he says, he pleads.

“Mingyu-yah–”

“He’s dead,” Mingyu finally speaks up, his voice hoarse, “Jeon Wonwoo is dead,” he whispers, “he’s dead but he’s finally free,”

Seungcheol pulls away, a tear trickling down his cheek at the state of his closest friend, “Mingyu–”

MIngyu turns to the TV again, walking closer to it, “at least he’s free, right?” he asks and Seungcheol lowers his gaze. He doesn't know how to console his best friend.

“Songpa underpass,” Mingyu says, “it's on the way to the Airport,” he says, turning to Seungcheol, “he was rushing to the airport, wasn't he?” he asks, choking up. Seungcheol licks his lips, “It’s not your fault–”

“It means he loved me, didn't he?” Mingyu turns to the TV, staring at Wonwoo’s picture displayed on the screen, “he was coming to see me, after all,” he swallows, “he…he loved me too,”

Seungcheol gulps, “I…we….Mingyu–”

“I just wish I knew, y’know,” Mingyu steps away, lowering his gaze, “I just wish there was a way for me to know he loved me too,” he says, pacing around the room anxiously, “If I’d realized that he felt the same, I would've tried harder to…to get him out of that hellhole. I…” Mingyu swallows, “I should've….if only….i wish….I just wish I knew, Hyung,” he turns to Seungcheol, “I wish I’d known he was racing to get to me. I would never have gotten on that flight…I….how can I live knowing he’s gone?”

Seungcheol gasps, “Mingyu-yah,”

“You shouldn't say such things Mingyu-yah,”

Seungcheol recognises that voice, and so does Mingyu, who gasps out loud as he whips his head towards the source of the voice. Seungcheol’s heart leaps out of his chest when he sees a man walk towards them, his face concealed by the darkness. But when Hansol walks in behind the man and switches on the lights, Seungcheol’s soul almost leaves his body at the sight of the previously dead Prince now standing in Mingyu’s bedroom.

“Jeon Wonwoo…” Seungcheol utters as the People’s Prince advances closer to Mingyu, letting his duffel bag drop to the floor, his eyes locked onto Mingyu. Seungcheol steps back, giving the two some room to….to digest everything.

“You shouldn't say such things, Mingyu-yah,” Wonwoo’s voice is a mere whisper, his eyes brimming with tears. Seungcheol turns to Mingyu, who looks like he’d seen a ghost.

Seungcheol backs away, reaching Hansol’s side, watching as Wonwoo halts in front of Mingyu, looking up at him, “Kim Mingyu, say something,” he says and MIngyu raises his hand, caressing his face. He gasps softly when he feels the warmth of Wonwoo’s face, as if worried he was hallucinating.

“Won?” Mingyu finally breathes out and Wonwoo smiles, nodding, “Eung, it’s me,” he says, leaning his face into Mingyu’s hand, nuzzling into his palm. A tear escapes Mingyu’s eye and he drops to his knees in front of Wonwoo. Hansol tries to step in but Seungcheol holds him back, shaking his head as MIngyu breaks down, circling his arms around Wonwoo’s waist and pulling him into a tight embrace.

“Is it really you?” Mingyu sobs, “Have I gone crazy? Are you really here?”

Wonwoo pats Mingyu’s head as the latter weeps into Wonwoo’s clothes. Wonwoo says nothing, allowing Mingyu to cry into his arms. Seungcheol spies Wonwoo’s tears trickling down his cheeks as well as he pulls Mingyu closer into his embrace, “It’s me,” Wonwoo chokes up, “I’m here,”

Seungcheol turns around and pats Hansol shoulder, “we should go,”

He doesn't want to intrude.

Hansol, teary-eyed, just nods. And as Wonwoo lowers himself onto the ground to properly hug Mingyu, Seungcheol and Hansol walk out of the room.

The People’s Prince may have died.

But Mingyu’s Wonwoo is still alive.

❀❀❀❀

“Vengeance,” Wonwoo says, and Seungkwan looks up from the files, “pardon?”

Wonwoo stares at the glass of whiskey in his hand, eyes disoriented, “Vengeance. It's got a nice ring to it,” he says and Seungkwan frowns, “I guess so?”

Wonwoo smiles, almost sinisterly, “I wonder what vengeance feels like,”

Seungkwan grows worried, “Hyung–”

“Vengeance,” Wonwoo repeats, eyes flicking over to Seungkwan, “I want vengeance, Seungkwan-ah,” he says and Seungwakn gasps softly. Wonwoo grins, “will you help me?”

“What you're asking me is crazy, Wonwoo-yah!” Jeonghan says as Wonwoo follows him out of his house, “Hyung, it's just–”

Jeonghan turns around, “it's not ‘just’ something Wonwoo!” he yells and then takes a look around, leaning closer to whisper-yell at him, “it's a dead body you want me to arrange!”

Wonwoo exhales, rubbing his temple as Jeonghan turns to Seungkwan, “why are you letting him do this?”

Seungkwna just averts his gaze, “if you knew how things were at the Palace, you’d wanna do the same, Hyung,”

Jeonghan’s frown disappears and he turns to Wonwoo, who keeps his gaze lowered for a moment. And then, he looks up, “I trust in you to have it ready by Taehyung’s wedding,”

Before Jeonghan can protest, Wonwoo and Seungkwan walk away.

“Self-driven?” Wonwoo exclaims and Jungkook nods, “Yes! Trials are pending but we are hoping we can give Tesla a hard time by mastering these auto-drive controls,” he says as Wonwoo admires the make of the black SUV, “that’s wonderful, Jungkook-ah. I hope it goes well for you. It’s a very beautiful model as well, unlike anything I’ve ever seen,”

Jungkook’s eyes light up at that, “Ah, really? Would you like to take this one home, Hyung? Just for inside the palace, as approvals to drive on the road are still pending,”

Wonwoo raises his brows, “I don't want to impose, Jungkook-ah,”

Jungkook smiles and shakes his head, “Hyung, I insist. Just make sure to keep it in the palace and keep the auto-mode deactivated. Once the tests and permissions are given, you can take her on the road!”

Wonwoo chuckles nervously, “ah, are you sure? She sure is a beaut,”

Jungkook nods, “of course! Consider this my gift for helping Taehyung and I talk to the Queen,”

Wonwoo smiles, “Ah, how can I say no now, haha,” and Jungkook giggles, “you cannot!”

“Thank you for telling me, Yuwon-ah,” Wonwoo says, crossing his arms as Seungkwan keeps his head lowered. Yuwon, a guard who patrols the grounds at night, keeps his head lowered as well. He glances at Seungkwan nervously and raises his head, “Your highness, I didn't mean to say anything but you said smoking is banned on the grounds and Seungkwan Sunbae was – im sorry, I couldn't help but come clean about what I saw,”

Wonwoo sighs, “Seungkwan-ah, we will talk about this later tonight,”

Seungkwan nods, “yes, Your highness,”

Yuwon purses his lips, clearly feeling guilty, “Your Highness–”

“Your honesty will be rewarded. Seungkwan, promote him to an indoor position right away,” he says and Yuwon’s eyes widen, “thank you, Your highness!”

Wonwoo nods and Yuwon hurries out the door, leaving Seungkwan and Wonwoo alone. The younger straightens, “what a tattletale,” he says and Wonwoo smiles, “that’s exactly what we need,”

Seungkwan hums and Wonwoo turns to him, “I hope you didn't actually smoke,”

Seungkwan just rolls his eyes.

“Seokmin-ah, I have a favor I would like to ask,” Wonwoo says, taking a sip of his tea and setting the cup down. Seokmin gasps, eyes wide and eager, “yes? What is it? Would you like a Private jet? Or a share in the company? Or free flying?”

Wonwoo giggles.

“It's rather odd, so hear me out will you?” Wonwoo looks up and Seokmin nods, “whatever it is, my answer will always be yes!”

Wonwoo smiles.

“Hyung, the invite has been sent,” Seungkwan says and Wonwoo looks up, nodding, “under Jae’s name?” he asks and Seungkwan nods, “Yes. I am sure she will RSVP it,”

Wonwoo hums, “Of course she will. She likes to be witness to the misery she causes, after all,”

Seungkwan licks his lips, “what if she becomes Queen?”

Wonwoo smirks, “A Queen no one will ever accept. That’s worse than not becoming a Queen at all,”

Seungkwan swallows nervously.

Sometimes Wonwoo Hyung scares him.

“Did you get her pic?” Wonwoo asks, going through files as Seungkwan hums on the phone, “I did. She’s in the parking lot. What do I do with this photograph?”

Wonwoo takes a deep breath, “send it to the Queen, anonymously of course,”

“Why?” Seungkwan asks and Wonwoo smiles, “she already suspects her good for nothing son is a cheater. Lets nudge her in the right direction, hm?”

“Hyung, Jiwoo just arrived,” Seungkwan says over the phone and Wonwoo nods, “very well. Is Yuwon on duty today?”

“Yes, he is. He will be stationed at the entrance of the Residential hallway. I will inform him to be on the lookout for any disturbances,”

Wonwoo smiles, “alright. Thank you, Seungkwan-ah,”

“Hyung–” Seungkwan speaks up before Wonwoo just as Wonwoo’s about to cut the call.

“Yes?”

“I've spoken to Mingyu Hyung’s Secretary. Chwe Hansol. Seems like a stand up guy. If you’re going to Ireland then he can help–”

“I’m not going to Ireland, Seungkwan-ah,” Wonwoo says and Seungkwan sighs, “just….think about it, Hyung, okay? You’re doing all of this to be happy, right?”

Wonwoo purses his lips.

“Get everything in order, Seungkwan-ah,” he says and cuts the call as he arrives at the wedding venue.

When Wonwoo arrives back at the Palace, Seungkwan opens the door for him. The two, in silence, walk towards the residential wing.

“Remember. Do not tell them until a year later, okay?” Wonwoo mumbles under his breath as they pass by the Royal staff.

“Yes, Hyung,”

“Don't forget to send them monthly payments either, okay? You must become their son for a year,” he says and Seungkwan nods, “Of course, Hyung,”

Wonwoo and Seungkwan pause by the entrance to the hallway and take a deep breath. Wonwoo turns to Seungkwan and nods. Everything they’ve planned for months now is leading upto this very moment.

Wonwoo’s about to walk down the hallway to set things in motion when Seungkwan stops him.

“Egg Salad,” Seungkwan says and Wonwoo frowns, “what?”

Seungkwan licks his lips, “its the code word I told Hansol-ssi. I didn't tell him anything about your plan but I told him that if someone calls him and tells him the code, he must do whatever they say,”

Wonwoo sighs, “Seungkwan-ah–”

“Just think about it, Hyung,” he says. Wonwoo just blinks at the man.

“Okay,” he nods, “lets go now,”

“Why are you so sure Jeonghan Hyung has a body ready?” Seungkwan asks as they drive down to the hospital.

“He knows I was not joking but was hoping I would back down. I just need to push him over the edge a little,” Wonwoo says and Seungkwan frowns, “how will you do that?”

Wonwoo turns to him, “I’ll do something I’ve never done with him,”

Seungkwan tilts his head, “which is?”

Wonwoo smiles, “I’ll cry,”

Wonwoo watches from the flyover as a black SUV zooms into the Songpa underpass. Wonwoo holds his breath when things go silent for a while, and then, he hears the harsh screeching of tires, followed by a loud crash and an explosion. A bright light emerges from the dark tunnel, followed by smoke and Wonwoo takes a deep breath of freedom.

He can hear the fire crackle inside, burning the unclaimed body to a crisp, beyond recognition. The only proof of the charred corpse’s identity is Wonwoo’s wedding ring placed neatly on its ring finger.

And with the People’s Prince, his dreadful marriage burns to a crisp as well.

From the flames then rises Jeon Wonwoo.

“Sir, your passport please,” an attendant asks, and Seokmin takes the passport from Wonwoo’s hand, handing it to the lady, “Yerim-ah, how are you today?” he asks, smiling charmingly as she mirrors his smile, “Ah, Mr. Lee, good to see you! Will you be flying with us?” she asks as she turns to Wonwoo, checking to see if his disguise matches that of the bearded man in the photo, with heavy bags under his eyes and a scar on his face.

“Ah, just dropping my friend at the gate. He has an emergency,” Seokmin says and Yerim gasps, “Ah, I’m sorry to hear that,” she glances at the passport, “Choi Siwoo-ssi,” she smiles and scans the passport, stamping it and handing it to Seokmin.

Wonwoo bows to her, “thank you,” he says, his voice higher than usual. She just smiles at him, though distracted by Seokmin beside him.

“See you, Yerim-ah,” Seokmin says and she smiles, “see you, Sir,”

When Jeon Wonwoo steps out of the Airport, he takes a deep breath.

He finds the nearest booth and dials the number Seungkwan had scribbled on a piece of paper.

The dial rings for a long time before someone answers.

“This is Chwe Hansol,” the voice says and Wonwoo swallows nervously. This is the one unplanned, unforeseen part of his plan. This is a risk, in fact. But he’s learned that some risks are worth taking. Because on the other side of this risk is Wonwoo’s happiness.

Wonwoo’s MIngyu.

He takes a deep breath and speaks up.

“Egg Salad,”

He wants to embrace his happiness.

He no longer wishes to run from it.

Notes:

A teeny tiny Epi-Epilogue sometime later???? Hahahah now but soon! Thank you guys for reading till here!!
Also, everyone who called Prince Wonwoo pathetic eat your words!!!😡😠🤣🩵

Chapter 12: Epi-Epilogue

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

“Shea! Thank you so much! And I’m sorry I was late! I got caught up at work!” Cara says, opening her arms for her daughter Niamh to run into. Niamh embraces her Mom softly, “Mommy!”

Cara kisses her temple and smiles.

Wonwoo grins, “No worries. I understand,” he says, waving at Niamh, “don’t forget to do the rest of your homework,” he tells her, handing Cara her school bag.

Niamh smiles, “see you tomorrow Shea!” she says and Cara giggles, turning to Wonwoo, “have you gotten a chance to look at our account, Shea?”

Wonwoo shakes his head, “Not yet. But I’ll let you know tomorrow,”

Cara smiles, “Oh no hurry! And thank you once again! Cillian just sucks at finances, and I’m too busy with the diner,”

“I get it. Don’t worry. It’s my job,” Wonwoo says and Cara smiles, “alright. I’ll drop her off tomorrow at the same time?”

Wonwoo nods, “Sure thing! Although, the daycare will be closed on the weekend,”

Cara cocks a brow, “oh? Are you going somewhere?”

Wonwoo smiles, “Yup. We’re going to Dingle. It’s our anniversary,” he blushes and Cara claps her hands excitedly, “Oh my! I hope you and Matthew have fun!”

Wonwoo chuckles, “we will. See you tomorrow, Cara,”

Cara just shoots him a smile and walks away with Niamh in her arms. Wonwoo sees them off and turns the board on his front door, setting it to ‘closed’

With that done, he closes the door and stretches. Today’s a hectic day — but the fact that they’ll be leaving for Dingle the day after motivates him to get his work done.

Wonwoo quickly freshens up and changes into his comfortable shorts and Tee. After watering the loquat tree, he picks up the toys the children had scattered around the living room. After getting his house in order, he settles on the dining table and browses through the account statements. He turns on the TV to play in the background.

‘Prince Jaekyung and Lee Jiwoo’s wedding garners the lowest viewership of the Korean Royal events of all time. The Queen did not attend the ceremony, sources say she does not approve of their union as legitimate or ethical—‘

Now, how does he break the news that Cara’s going to move up by one slab for income tax? Perhaps he should congratulate her on how good her business is doing and then tell her she’s gonna have to pay more tax?

Just as Wonwoo moves onto the Chief’s account, he hears the front door click open. He puts the papers down, only to realize 45 minutes have already passed since he sat down. He stretches and turns around, “Is that you?” he calls in Korean as he turns the TV off. After a few seconds, a head peeks into the room from the corridor, a smile gracing the handsome face.

“I’m home~” Mingyu sing-songs as he tosses his bag on the floor before dancing his way towards Wonwoo, hugging the man who had stood up to greet his husband. Wonwoo chuckles as Mingyu peppers his face with kisses, “stop,” he whispers and Mingyu pulls away, hands still around Wonwoo’s waist, “I missed you,” he pouts.

Wonwoo bites his lip, “you were gone for two days, Mingyu-yah,” he kisses Mingyu’s pouty lips. The Alpha sighs, hugging Wonwoo again, “that’s 172800 seconds away from you!”

Wonwoo laughs, “that’s quick math,”

Mingyu hums, littering kisses on Wonwoo’s face, “it’s insane how much I miss you,”

Wonwoo pats his chest, “Seungcheol can’t handle the company affairs alone,” he reminds his husband, and Mingyu sighs, “you’re right,” he presses his forehead against Wonwoo’s, “but I miss my husband so much,”

Wonwoo licks his lips, “hey now,”

Mingyu looks into his eyes, “hey, don’t you miss me?”

Wonwoo pauses for a second before nodding, “I miss you, a lot more than you can imagine,” he says, pressing his lips against Mingyu’s. The latter hums into the kiss, “a few more years,” he says in between feather light kisses, “I will groom a successor and retire,”

Wonwoo gasps softly when Mingyu’s hands make their way to his waist, ducking under his Tee to touch his skin.

“Retire? What do you plan on doing in the Irish countryside?” Wonwoo jokes as Mingyu’s lips latch onto the skin of his neck, “gardening, cooking, spending time with my husband,” he says and Wonwoo scoffs, “I’m third?”

Mingyu shrugs, “actually you’re fourth,” he says and Wonwoo punches his arm, “idiot,”

Mingyu smiles as Wonwoo trembles under his touch, eyes half-lidded and breath uneven as Mingyu’s hands roam his bare torso and back. He hooks a finger in Wonwoo’s collar, pulling it aside to reveal their mating mark. Mingyu smiles and ducks down to bite Wonwoo again, eliciting a hiss from the man, “ow,”

Mingyu chuckles and pulls back, facing Wonwoo, whose face is flushed and lips kiss-bitten. He looks gorgeous.

Mingyu leans in to kiss him, hands resting on his hips, thumbs sliding past the waistband of his shorts, making the Omega jump. Wonwoo might be a recessive Omega but he always smells delicious to Mingyu. Wonwoo kisses back eagerly, his hands navigating around Mingyu’s clothes, pushing the coat off his shoulders and latching onto his buttons, undoing them one by one.

“When are Seungkwan, Seokmin and Jeonghan flying in?” Mingyu asks, pulling away to get rid of his shirt, dropping it to the floor as Wonwoo eagerly gropes his muscles, “tomorrow,” he replies as Mingyu pushes the man on to the table.

Mingyu takes his hand, kissing his fingers and then his palm, travelling down his arm and up to his shoulders and neck, marking the skin with his teeth. Wonwoo lets out a small whimpers as Mingyu pushes his Tee up to his neck, things circling his nipples. Wonwoo moans shyly and Mingyu smirks.

“And your parents?” He asks and Wonwoo swallows, squirming under him, “Day after,”

Mingyu leans down, taking a nipple into his mouth, “nervous?” He asks, biting the rose bud and Wonwoo gasps. He grabs Mingyu’s face and pulls him up, his face flushed and chest heaving. Mingyu smiles, equally breathless. Wonwoo just purses his lips and pulls Mingyu in for a kiss, “as long as you’re there, I won’t be nervous,” he says and crashes their lips in a fiery kiss. Mingyu kisses back, moaning when Wonwoo bites his lower lip. Wonwoo’s limbs wrap around his body as Mingy begins to rock their bodies together.

“I love you,” Wonwoo says breathlessly, “I love you so much,” he says and Mingyu smiles, “I love you too, Won,”

And just as Mingyu’s about to shove his hand into Wonwoo’s shorts, a voice interrupts them.

“Appa?”

Mingyu and Wonwoo jump off each other immediately as a little child strolls into the dining room, rubbing the sleep off her eyes, clutching onto her soft toy.

“Haewon-ah!” Mingyu leaps towards the little girl, pulling her into his embrace, “Daddy misses you!” he shakes the girl as Wonwoo adjusts his clothes, smiling fondly at the two.

Haewon comes to her senses, realising that the person holding her is none other than her Daddy, whom she’s missed so dearly. She hugs him back, “Daddy!” she says and Mingyu chuckles, pulling back to kiss her face tenderly. She giggles, “welcome home, Daddy,” she grabs Mingyu’s face with her little hands and kisses his cheek.

Mingyu turns to Wonwoo with teary eyes, “look how cute our daughter is, Wonwoo-yah,”

Wonwoo chuckles as he walks over to them, “Haewon-ah, drink some water first,” he hands a small glass. As she drinks it, Wonwoo takes a deep breath, clutching Mingyu’s arm, prompting the Alpha look down at him, “what’s wrong?” He whispers and Wonwoo shakes his head, “just nervous about meeting Mom and Dad. And about her meeting them,” she whispers.

Mingyu just smiles reassuringly, “I’m sure they will be shocked. But trust me, they’re gonna be more delighted than astonished, okay?”

Wonwoo just swallows nervously and nods, taking Mingyu’s word for it. As long as Mingyu’s by his side, he isn’t worried.

“Here Appa!” Haewon says as she hands Wonwoo the glass.

“Daddy! I want to show you something!” she says, kicking her feet. Mingyu kisses her forehead and puts her down, “what is it, princess?”

“It’s a drawing I made of us! Hold on!” She says and runs off into another room, making Mingyu giggle. He turns to Wonwoo, who has a fond smile on his face. Mingyu’s heart swells with content and he leans into whisper in Wonwoo’s ears, “okay, I’ll push up spending time with you to number two, number one being Haewon, of course,”

Wonwoo chuckles and nudges the man, “idiot. But it seems fair. I’d drop you any day for Haewon,”

Mingyu clicks his tongue, “you’re so mean,” he says and Wonwoo giggles. He leans back against the table and leans his head onto Mingyu’s shoulder. Mingyu kisses his head, “hey,” he calls, “should we make another one?” he whispers as they hear Haewon’s footsteps running towards them.

Wonwoo pauses, not shooting him down immediately this time. He looks up at Mingyu and smiles, and before Mingyu can process that , Haewon runs into the room, “look daddy!”

Mingyu drops the thought and turns to Haewon, “oh, so beautiful, Haewon-ah!” He says, kneeling next to her. And as Mingyu intently listens to Haewon explain her drawing to him, Wonwoo just smiles fondly.

This is his forever home.

An extra addition wouldn’t hurt, right?

Notes:

It has finally and officially come to an end!! Thank you so much for reading!! If you have any questions, I’ll gladly answer them! And yes, it was based on Princess Diana!! Thank you for reading and supporting me☺️🥰

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Account Deleted on Chapter 1 Thu 23 Nov 2023 12:13PM UTC

A new fic by Kittu! We have been blessed on Minwon day. 😍

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alittlepinwheel on Chapter 1 Thu 23 Nov 2023 01:28PM UTC

First chapter and im already invested! Kituu you are such a genius

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Ficnik on Chapter 1 Thu 23 Nov 2023 03:41PM UTC

We have been blessed today!😻
The premise sounds promising!I can't wait to see how it unfolds!

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malith29 on Chapter 1 Thu 23 Nov 2023 03:59PM UTC

It already getting so intense! Can't wait to see how this unfold! 💖

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aeribeum on Chapter 1 Thu 23 Nov 2023 04:05PM UTC

oooo i cant wait to see how it unfolds

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missnovember on Chapter 1 Thu 23 Nov 2023 06:12PM UTC

looking forward for the next chapters!!!!!

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svtujii on Chapter 1 Fri 24 Nov 2023 12:37AM UTC

aadjfjkahafsj looking forward to all the drama about to happen

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JUN1412 on Chapter 1 Fri 24 Nov 2023 01:32PM UTC

Primer capítulo y ya le traigo un coraje al segundo príncipe.
Necesito saber cómo fue la historia de Wonwoo y Mingyu en el pasado y como se desarrollará apartir de ahora.
Gracias por esta nueva historia 💕

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strawberryicecream on Chapter 1 Fri 24 Nov 2023 01:38PM UTC

wonwoo is giving me princess diana vibes omg, and mingyu is back! i cant wait to see mingyu and wonwoo together more often!

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Account Deleted on Chapter 1 Sat 09 Dec 2023 05:33AM UTC

Thanks for the upload Kittu! I plan to continue to read this and catch up with BTY on my flight today! I'll come back with some interactions/comments that make sense tomorrow haha.

Last Edited Sat 09 Dec 2023 05:34AM UTC

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7Archives on Chapter 1 Mon 08 Jan 2024 02:43PM UTC

I LOVE THIS 👍👍❤️❤️

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AreumWon on Chapter 1 Tue 09 Jan 2024 08:02AM UTC

This is why guys timing and communication is important 😔

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paitamis (Guest) on Chapter 1 Tue 13 Feb 2024 08:34AM UTC

wonwoo our princess diana :((((( the ominous feeling i know i will get my heart broken as the story progresses but IM READYYYYYYYYYYY

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selhi_04 on Chapter 1 Fri 23 Feb 2024 06:08PM UTC

I expected arrange marriage between minwon not his brothers lol! And didn't expected tae as well but it's good surprise

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Ficnik on Chapter 2 Tue 28 Nov 2023 07:26PM UTC

Run away with him,Wonu🥹
That duffod Jae doesn't deserve you...go get your happily ever after with someone who cares about you🥺

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hewhomustnotbejames on Chapter 2 Tue 28 Nov 2023 11:01PM UTC

omg i’m so invested 😰❤️🙏

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yoongbae on Chapter 2 Tue 28 Nov 2023 11:50PM UTC

i have so many questions ahhhhh
wonwoo must've known that something's up with mingyu's brother do why did he marry him?
and jae seems to have history with the side chick -- ala prince charles and camilla, so why marry wonwoo?
i wish wonwoo would run away with mingyu.. pull a princess diana without the tragic death

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carateu on Chapter 2 Wed 29 Nov 2023 01:39AM UTC

He better run away with him 😕😕

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Qilluiz on Chapter 2 Wed 29 Nov 2023 01:42AM UTC

Dashi run run run...que bts haahahah..better wonu run plz my dear😭🥺

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strawberryicecream on Chapter 2 Wed 29 Nov 2023 02:22AM UTC

run away with him!! jaeshit doesnt deserve you, wonwoo! and aw, i enjoyed reading about tae, wonwoo and mingyu, they are such a cute group!

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Work Header

Apricity

Akitokitoa_chan

Summary:

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Chapter 1: People's Prince

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Chapter 2: The Third Prince and his Hyeongnim

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Chapter 3: Mingyu and Wonwoo

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Chapter 4: Second Prince Kim Jaekyung

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Chapter 5: Centre of Excellence

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Chapter 6: Engagement

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Chapter 7: Checkmate?

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Chapter 8: Graduation

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Chapter 9: Wedding

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Chapter 10: Forever Home

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Chapter 11: Epilogue

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Chapter 12: Epi-Epilogue

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