Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

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The dark afternoon sky hung low above the palace. The cold wind moved gently through the trees, brushing against Sunghoon’s sleeves. The forest lay quiet beyond the stone walls, peaceful as it should be.

Ni-ki wandered off the path a few steps ahead of him.

Sunghoon watched as the second prince crouched near the roots of a tree, carefully lifting fallen leaves one by one. He chose only the intact ones, brushing dirt from their veins with the edge of his sleeve.

“This one looks like a wing.” Ni-ki said, holding it up to the faint light slipping through the branches.

Sunghoon leaned closer and nodded. “It does. It’s pretty.”

Ni-ki pulled out a small notebook from his satchel and placed the leaf between its pages before tucking it away again. The notebook was already thick, filled with leaves he had found interesting enough to keep.
Then he stood and wandered off once more, searching for more leaves.

Sunghoon didn’t stop him.

The guards keeping a careful but distant watch on him lingered farther back between the trees,. This part of the forest was considered safe. Sunghoon had walked these paths since he was young, long before he was trusted with escorting a prince.

He carried no weapon. He had never been trained to use one. His role was to watch, to remember, and to protect in quieter ways.

Something dropped. Sunghoon startled and turned sharply at the sound of it.

Before he could react, another object struck lightly against his chest.

Sunghoon stared at the huckleberry that came to a stop near his foot.

The leaves above him rustled and it made his pulse spiked. There were no huckleberry trees in the palace forest.

When he looked up, Sunghoon froze.

There was boy lay sprawled across a thick branch, head tilted lazily to the side, eyes already fixed on him. Too natural as though he belonged there.

Sunghoon’s chest tightened as a rush of nerves climbed up his spine. “Who are you—”

The boy jumped down smoothly, with only a little noise from the leaves beneath his shoes as if he weighed nothing at all.

Sunghoon stepped back without thinking.

Up close, the boy looked unmistakably like a commoner, with simple clothes worn at the edges, dark hair framing sharp eyes and a sharper jaw. Someone who lived by the streets, not the palace. Not a servant. Not a servant’s son. Sunghoon knew every face that belonged inside the castle.

“You—you shouldn’t be here.” Sunghoon said.

The boy didn’t answer. He only looked at him straight in the eye and stepped closer.

“This..this area is guarded." Sunghoon said again.

The boy smirked. Then his gaze slid past Sunghoon towards Ni-ki, who’s still hunched over a small pile of leaves, unaware of anything else.

“Guarded.” the boy echoed softly. “Of course. Otherwise the prince wouldn’t be roaming around here.”

Sunghoon stiffened. “Don’t call him that.”

The boy’s eyes snapped back to him with interest.

“Oh?” he murmured. “So it is true.”

The second prince was protected carefully, known to the kingdom but never fully seen. When he appeared in public, his face is always hidden behind a mask. Only those inside the palace knew him as he was.

Sunghoon hadn’t meant to confirm anything.

He froze, mind clouded. He could shout for the guards but Ni-ki was too close. And he didn’t know what the boy might do if he felt cornered, or if he would strike if he felt threatened. He glanced toward Ni-ki with so much worry tightening his chest.

Sunghoon didn’t notice it when the boy stepped closer.
And flinched when felt gentle fingers brushed his collar.

The boy had caught hold of his necklace.

Sunghoon sucked in a sharp breath, unable to move.

The boy stared at the pendant, eyes widened slightly with something unreadable. Amusement, perhaps, or suspicion.

Sunghoon stepped back at once, pulling the necklace out of the boy’s grasp. The pendant fell back against his chest, a beat warmer now and he clutched it tightly between his hands.

“Leave before I call the guards.” Sunghoon said.

He could call them now. But if he did, this boy might never see the sunset. The life of this young boy now depends on him.

“Oh.” The boy drawled with a smirk. “Scary.”

“I’m not trying to scare you.” Sunghoon said. “I’m giving you a chance.”

“A chance, huh?” The boy echoed.

Sunghoon remained frozen as the boy starts circling him, slow and deliberate.

“You’re not royalty.” the boy said. “Nor a noble.”
His gaze locked onto Sunghoon’s. “A servant.”

Yes. That’s what he is. A servant.

“I wonder.” The boy continued softly. “Why a servant would wear something so valuable.”

Sunghoon closed his fist tighter around the pendant.

“Leave.” He said, voice firm. “Now.”

The boy chuckled.

He glances towards Ni-ki again, making Sunghoon’s heart lurch. But then he stepped back and bowed to Ni-ki’s direction, which doesn’t look like a mocking salute, as if addressing the second prince who still hadn’t noticed a thing.

Then his eyes returned to Sunghoon.

In a blink, he was climbing the tree again, swift and effortless.

Sunghoon stood there watching his every move.

When the boy reached the thick branch where he was laying before, he looked down at him and winked.

“That looks pretty on you, by the way.”

Then he was gone.

 

Sunghoon stood there for another moment, fingers still clenched tightly around the necklace at his collar. He watched the space where the boy had vanished, eyes tracing the gaps between the trees as if expecting him to reappear.

In a matter of a few minutes, the forest gave nothing back.

Sunghoon startled and turned sharply at the sound of footsteps behind him.

Heeseung stood a short distance away, dressed in armor darkened by the dim afternoon light. His horse waited beside him so calm and well-trained. Heeseung looked every bit the crown prince. Strong.

“Your highness.” Sunghoon bowed but before he could lower himself fully, a hand caught his shoulder.

“What’s wrong?” Heeseung asked.

Sunghoon stilled at the question.

Heeseung had always been like this. Attentive, alert, noticing even the smallest things.

A pause held too long, breath taken too sharply. Sunghoon opened his mouth to answer. “Iㅡ”

The branches above them moved making Sunghoon eyes shot upward quick. But there was nothing. Only leaves and branches swaying gently in the wind. When he looked back down, Heeseung was staring upward as well with narrowed eyes, scanning the trees with the instinct of someone trained for danger.

Sunghoon’s thoughts spiraled. The boy. Had he gotten away? What if the prince sees him? What would he do? What would happen to him?

“Nothing, your highness." Sunghoon answers finally. A lie.

That was enough to draw Heeseung’s attention back to him. Heeseung’s hand remained on his shoulder, firm but warm. “You look pale.”

“I’m okay, your highness.” Sunghoon said and attempts a smile.

Heeseung didn’t seem convinced. His hand shifts, fingers pressing lightly against the side of Sunghoon’s neck, feeling for warmth. Despite his strength and his mastery of the sword, Heeseung’s touch was always careful and gentle.

“You should rest.” Heeseung said.

“But your highnessㅡ”

“I’ll take over.” Heeseung interrupts, glancing toward Ni-ki’s direction.

The second prince is now crouched behind a large stone, fully absorbed in watching small insects crawl across the ground.

“I’ll keep an eye on him from here.”

Sunghoon hesitates but nodded anyway.

“Call the stablemaster.” Heeseung added, sliding his palm along his horse’s neck. “She needs to be settled for the day.”

“Yes, your highness.” Sunghoon bowed again and caught the faint frown that crossed Heeseung’s face.

Heeseung had never liked it when Sunghoon bowed to him, especially when they were alone. Sunghoon had noticed it over the years, the way Heeseung’s jaw would tighten, the brief flicker of discomfort in his eyes. But he had never asked why.

The younger prince Ni-ki, on the other hand, had never been subtle about it. “Don’t bow to me. It’s annoying.” the younger prince would complain openly. But that was an order Sunghoon couldn’t follow. He is a servant and to bow to the crown is his duty.

Sunghoon turned away and made his way back through the trees.

His gaze was restless now, darting from trunk to trunk, from shadow to shadow. Every rustle of leaves made his shoulders tense.

Somehow, against reason and against duty, he found himself hoping the boy had made it out safely.

The forest remained quiet with his secret.

 

In the days that followed, Sunghoon watched and listened closely. He lingered near doorways, slowed his steps in corridors, and paid attention to conversations he would have normally ignored, to the maids that whispered as they worked, trading gossip about the townsfolk, to the guards that spoke in low voices during patrol changes.

Sunghoon listened to all of it. Every word. He waited for a mention of the forest. Of a boy caught trespassing.
And hopes he would never hear it.

A week had passed and still nothing.

 

Each time Sunghoon walked the palace forest paths with Ni-ki, his shoulders stayed tense. His eyes would drift upward the trees to scan the branches, the shadows between leaves. Sometimes he thought he saw movement. Sometimes his heart jumped for nothing.

Why did he even want to see him again? To know he was safe, perhaps? That he made it out alive?

If Sunghoon had called the guards that day, would it have spared him his life? Instead of being caught red handed by the guard themselves who could easily shot him on the spot?

But if the boy returned, wouldn’t that only put him in danger?

Sunghoon didn’t even know his name and yet his face remained painfully clear in his mind, the sharp line of his jaw, the way his eyes had lingered. Sunghoon only wanted to know one thing.

Is he still alive?

 

He found his answer one late afternoon.

The city was celebrating the Dano Festival, when summer crept close and the people filled the streets with color and music. A carnival parade had been invited to the main plaza, with acrobats, masked dancers, and circus performers parading through the streets.

Ni-ki wanted to see it.

Sunghoon walked beside him, attentive as always. With them was the court lady assigned to guide the prince, along with several guards and a few maids following at a careful distance.

As usual, Ni-ki wore a mask. Still, the elegance of his clothes gave him away. People bowed as they passed. The crowd parted without question.

The plaza was alive with bright lights and sound. Food stalls lined the streets, and game booths surrounded the open square, wooden targets, throwing rings, small prizes hanging from strings. They circled the merchants first. Ni-ki bought charms, brilliant stones for luck, dried flowers tied with thread.

“For you.” The young prince said. He pressed a folded amber bandana into Sunghoon’s hands.

Sunghoon smiled at him, held it close to his chest as they moved toward the fountain to watch the parade as the drums began.

Ni-ki stood straight, hands folded behind his back, posture proper as always. Sunghoon could see the amusement in his eyes behind the mask. The young prince has always loved art and music.

And suddenly, the rhythm broke when a shout rang out. “Stop him!”

The parade faltered as a merchant came running through the crowd, face red with fury. “Catch him! The boy in green!”

The palace guards were quick to react. Ni-ki was pulled back, surrounded and ushered away to safety. Sunghoon turned sharply as his eyes scans the crowd to see what’s going on. And then he saw him…. the boy in green.

He was moving fast, weaving through the people. One step. Two steps. Straight toward him. Sunghoon froze on his feet.

It all happened in a blink. The bandana was snatched from his hands, warm fingers brushing his skin as the boy passed him. For a moment, Sunghoon didn’t move.

That bandana….a gift from the prince, his mind insisted.

The boy. He’s alive...his heart answered.

And then, Sunghoon ran. He chased after the flash of amber now tied behind the boy’s head, his eyes locked onto it. He pushed through the crowd, murmuring apologies as he stumbled through narrow paths and side alleys.

 

The noise of the plaza parade starts to fade. It’s darker now. He didn’t know how long he ran, legs burning as be catch his breath. He stopped in a dim alley, hands braced against a lamppost with shaking knees.

What is he doing?

Then it dawns to him that what he did was a mistake. The guards would be searching for him, Ni-ki would… And if the young prince returned to the palace without him, he knows the first prince, Heeseung would come looking.

What had he done?

He straightens then, still breathing fast as Sunghoon forced himself to think. He had to find his way back quickly. He turned back to retrace the direction and then…the boy was there.

Leaning against the wall, arms crossed, the amber bandana loose around his neck. His sharp eyes gleamed in the low light, watching Sunghoon as if he had been waiting all along.

It’s really him, Sunghoon thinks.

Up close, the boy looks slightly winded, shoulders rising and falling as he leans against the wall. Not cornered. Not afraid. Just…. catching his breath, as if the chase had amused him more than anything else.

“You run fast.” The boy says, a slow smile tugging at his lips.

Sunghoon swallows. For a moment, he wonders why he did. Why his feet moved before his mind could stop them. To see if it was truly him? To prove to himself that the boy from the forest had not been imagined? To confirm that he was safe and sound?

“Give my bandana back.” Sunghoon says instead.

The boy glances down at the amber cloth around his shoulders.“This one?” he asks. “It doesn’t even look expensive. Why would you come running after it?”

Sunghoon stiffens. “Why did you come to the palace forest? No… how did you even get out?”

The boy’s lips curve upward. The same smirk Sunghoon had seen back in the forest days ago.

“Why?” The boy asked with a glint in his eyes. “Were you worried I couldn’t?”

The answer settles heavily in Sunghoon’s chest. He doesn’t say it.

“You shouldn’t be anywhere near the palace.” Sunghoon says, voice low. “If you get caught again, you won’t be let go.”

Jay steps closer, just enough to make Sunghoon tense. “Hmm. Is that a threat? Because you sound like you care.”

“I sound like someone who knows what happens to thieves.” Sunghoon warns this time.

The boy studies him, unoffended.“Is that what you think I am?”

“You stole from a merchant.” Sunghoon snaps. “You stole from me.”

“I borrowed,” Jay replies with a shrug. “That’s not stealing.” His smile sharpens. “And you’re letting me off again this time, right? Like what you did in the forest?”

The words settle heavier than Sunghoon expects, enough to make him doubt himself, his responsibilities, his name.

“Tha-that’s not what happened.” Sunghoon says quickly. “I was escorting the young prince—”

The boy’s brows lift slightly. “Ah. Young prince. So it was true.”

Sunghoon frowns. “Don’t… don’t talk about him.”

Jay steps closer, testing the space between them. “Relax. I’m not interested in princes.” Then he laughs softly. “What’s your name?”

Sunghoon doesn’t answer.

“I’m Jay.” The boy offers.

Jay.

It doesn’t sound like a common name. Sunghoon wonders if it’s even real.

He takes him in for a moment, but says anyway. “Sunghoon.”

“Sunghoon.” Jay echoes, smiling.

Then he says it again, slower this time, almost to himself. “Sunghoon.” Then louder. “You’re someone important to the palace, aren’t you?”

He isn’t.

Jay’s gaze flickers briefly to the necklace at Sunghoon’s collar. Without thinking, Sunghoon’s hand closes around it.

Jay lets out a short laugh, half scoff. “Wouldn’t the prince—wouldn’t the people at the palace be looking for you by now?”

Sunghoon doesn’t answer.

“Try not to chase strangers next time.” Jay says, already turning away.

“Jay.” Sunghoon blurts.

Jay stops, though he doesn’t turn back.

“Be careful.” Sunghoon says.

Jay looks over his shoulder, a wide grin spreading across his face. Then he winks. “Careful, huh?”

And then he’s gone, leaving Sunghoon standing alone in the alley, fingers clenched around the necklace at his chest.

 

Sunghoon was able to return to the palace with the help of a patrolling castle guard. He kept his head down as they passed through the gates, the stone walls rising around him like something closing shut.

The corridors were dim, lit only by a few lanterns burning low for the night.

When he turned a corner and saw Heeseung coming out of his chamber, he stopped immediately.

He was out of his armor, dressed in simple night clothes, expression caught somewhere between surprise and concern. But more than that, he looked relieved.

“Sunghoon.” The prince said. “Are you alright?”

Sunghoon walks towards him and bowed immediately. “I apologize, your highness.”

Heeseung frowned at that. His hand came up, gentle, guiding Sunghoon upright. If he was subtle about it before, Heeseung looked tired of it now.

“What happened?” He asked.

Sunghoon swallowed. “There was a commotion at the plaza. A thief. He stole the bandana from me, and I… I ran after him.”

“A thief?” Heeseung echoed.

Sunghoon nodded.

Heeseung studied him closely. “Why?”

“It was a gift from the young prince.” Sunghoon said quickly. The words tasted thin in his mouth.

Then he tried to explain what happened. The noise, merchant’s shout, the crowd, the running. But even as he spoke, he realized what he wasn’t saying. What he couldn’t say. That he had seen the boy before. That he had known him, his name. That he had let him go once again.

“I lost him.” Sunghoon finished. A lie.

Heeseung didn’t speak right away. He just looked at Sunghoon as though he was searching his face. Then he left without another word.

Sunghoon wanted to reach for him, wanted to say something, anything, but he knew he couldn’t. He remained where he was, shame creeping up his spine. He was meant to escort the young prince. He had been trusted with his safety. And yet, he had stepped away from his duty without hesitation.

The corridor begins to feel too narrow

 

That night, it was harder to sleep.

He lie awake in his bed, staring at the ceiling as the weight of it all press down on him. Every thought circled back to the same place.

Sunghoon closed his eyes now but is still awake. He didn’t know how long had passed when a knock sounded at his door. Him getting a knock on his door at the middle of the night could mean a lot of things.

Sunghoon rose quickly and opened it.

There, Heeseung stood.

“Your highㅡ”

The prince held something out. It was the amber bandana.

Jay

Sunghoon’s breath caught. His heart began to race, thoughts spiraling too fast to catch. Did the prince find him? Did he take it back? What did he do to him? His grip tightened around the doorframe before he even realized it.

Heeseung noticed this.

“Howㅡ how did youㅡ”

Heeseung is still looking at him. “I went back to the plaza.” He said after a moment. “I bought another one.”

The words hit Sunghoon all at once. Relief rushed through him so fast it left him lightheaded.

“Oh. I..” He said softly. “I— thank you, your highness.”
He reached out, taking the bandana with hands that trembled despite himself. He bowed instinctively again, though this time his chest felt lighter than it had all night.

Heeseung watched him for a moment longer, as if trying to understand the reaction, then simply nodded.

“Rest now.” He said again.

And this time, when he left, Sunghoon was able to breathe but not without the image of Heeseung’s knowing gaze replaying over and over in his mind.

 

The next morning, Sunghoon was summoned and scolded by the lord steward. He was reminded of his responsibilities, of the privilege he carried, and of the weight of his parents’ names within the palace walls.

It’s not often that he gets scolded. His parent’s names being dragged for his mistakes had each word landed heavier than the last. Sunghoon listened in silence to it all.

By the time he was dismissed, he felt hollowed out. The lack of sleep and shame blurring together as he stared blankly past the stone terrace towards the ground below.

“You came back.” The words stopped him cold.

Sunghoon turned and saw the young prince standing a short distance away. For a brief moment, Ni-ki looked at him as if he had seen a ghost, before relief flickered across his face. Then, just as quickly, his expression settled back into cold.

You came back….Sunghoon hadn’t realized that was something he needed to prove.

“Of course, your highness.” He said, forcing a smile even as his voice wavered.

Ni-ki crossed the space between them. “I thought you got hurt.”

Sunghoon felt tremor at that. He shook his head. He had heard from the guards how the young prince had refused to leave the plaza the night before without him.

“I apologize, your highness.” Sunghoon said, biting his lower lip. “I shouldn’t have done tha—”

“Have tea with me.” Ni-ki said, already turning away.

“O-of course, your highness.” Sunghoon followed him without another word. The shame and guilt still lingering, yet softened by the younger prince. With Ni-ki, things had always been simple. The way the young prince let things go so easily. The way he always worries despite being the younger between them, despite Sunghoon being only a servant.

 

The next few days did not go easily too. The guards watched him differently now, as if expecting him to falter again, as if he might step out of responsibility like that night at the carnival parade at any moment. Sunghoon can also hear the other servants and maids whispering in the passing corridor talking about him. They spoke of his carelessness, of how he had abandoned his duty while escorting the young prince, of how he was favored too much by the princes, by the king and queen alike.

He tried to ignore it all. Tried to drown it all out with routine and silence.

But what weighed on him most was Heeseung.

The look on the prince’s face that night still linger in his mind, refusing to fade. Heeseung had been busy since then that Sunghoon rarely saw him. When they did cross paths in the halls, Sunghoon would greet him, only to receive a brief nod in return. There were none of quiet questions anymore…. Did you sleep well? Have you eaten? Do you want to rest? Are you tired?

That absence hurt more than the whispers.

 

He’s been tossing and turning in his bed that night, but the throbbing on his cheek wouldn’t let him sleep so he got out of his chamber and paced beyond the palace walls. He crossed the bridge beneath the bright moon, and stopped beside the fountain on the gardens.

He stared at his reflection in the water, at the faint scratch along his cheek, at the soft glow of his necklace caught in the ripples. Sunghoon sighed. It had been a long day.

The wind rustled through the trees above him. Sunghoon looked up, suddenly aware of how dark it had become and how far he had wandered. There were few guards patrolling this late.

A prickle of fear crept up his spine. He should go back.

When he looked down at the water again, there was another reflection.

“Boo!”

Sunghoon gasped, clasping a hand over his mouth. He nearly screamed.

To his side, Jay is now standing and smiling up at him as though he hadn’t just startled the life out of Sunghoon. “Looking for me?”

“What are you—” Sunghoon managed, still trying to steady his breath.

Jay’s smile had been replaced in an instant, hand already reaching out. “What happened to your face?”.

Sunghoon stepped back on instinct.

“Tell me.” Jay demanded, his brows furrowed deeper. “Did they hurt you?”

“No.” Sunghoon shook his head quickly. “It was an accident. WhatㅡWhat are you doing here?”

“An accident?” Jay asked as he reached out again.

This time, Sunghoon lets him. He winced when Jay’s thumb traced the scratch with gentle fingers. So Jay does it again but more careful now at the skin beneath the wound.

Sunghoon felt it all the same. “It’s nothing.” He said, pulling away.

It truly had been an accident. Earlier that day, after Ni-ki’s lessons, Sunghoon had been returning materials to the library when a book slipped from the shelf. The hard edge of its cover had struck his cheek, leaving behind a bruise and scratch that’s visible even in the moonlight.

Jay let out a quiet breath. “First you let a trespasser and a thief off twice.” He starts. “And now a scratch on your pretty face...” His smile turned crooked, almost bitter. “You’re not very careful, are you?”

That wasn’t true.

Sunghoon had always been careful. His every step measured. His every word rehearsed before it ever left his mouth. He had been raised that way. Beyond being the son of the highest steward and the lord knight of the palace, he had proven himself through diligence alone. He had proven that he’s efficient and useful the crown. He survived within these walls by never making mistakes, not because he was privileged by the princes.

You’re not very careful.

So to hear it, especially from a stranger, hurts more than it should have.

A tear slipped free before Sunghoon realized it.He wiped it away too quickly with his sleeve, turning his face aside as if the night itself had no right to see it.

Jay saw it anyway.

Sunghoon straightened at once. “You shouldn’t come near the castle.” He said, voice too firm. “It’s dangerous. If you’re caught again—”

“I didn’t come to cause trouble.” Jay interrupted. He reached into his pocket and held something out. The amber bandana.

Sunghoon stared at it for far too long.

It was the reason for it all.

The reason why he had run through the plaza to chase Jay without thinking. Then, the image of Heeseung’s face had resurfaced in his mind. The way the prince had looked at him with eyes cold and restraint as he search for answers while Sunghoon tells him what happened, like he knew there were answers Sunghoon couldn’t give. And later on that same evening, the look on Heeseung’s eyes, dimmed with something unspoken, when he pressed another bandana into Sunghoon’s hand. The same soft fabric and the same amber color. Bought from the plaza even late into the night, just to replace what Sunghoon had chased and failed to get back.

Then Ni-ki. The way the young prince looked at him the next morning, relief and worry breaking through his usual composure as he said it, You came back.

Slowly, he reached for it.

“You’re lonely here, aren’t you?” Jay said out of nowhere. “Do you feel trapped?”

The question landed wrong that Sunghoon stiffened. He’d never thought of it that way. Despite being just a servant, he had always seen the palace as his home. His safe space. The only place he believes where he belongs. A place where he had a role, a purpose.

That was it. The questions shouldn’t unsettle him this much.

He glanced around instinctively, as if the stone walls might be listening. “Never say that again.” Sunghoon snapped at Jay who is looking at him, expecting for an answer.

Jay blinked. “What? I’m just saying. It looks cramped here and boriㅡ” He stopped when he saw Sunghoon’s face.

Jay turned instead and flicked something into the fountain, probably a huckleberry again. The water rippled, distorting their reflections until neither of them looked quite real.

“Don’t come here again,” Sunghoon said quietly.

Jay hummed, thoughtful. “Yeah?”

“I’m serious,” Sunghoon said. “Next time you come near the palace, I won’t hesitate to call the guards.”

“Okay,” Jay said lightly, like he doesn’t believe it. “Okay. Fine.”

Sunghoon hesitated. Then, he opens his mouth again to say. “Promise me.” His eyes held Jay’s firmly. Sunghoon said it so earnest and he doesn’t even know himself why he ask for it.

Jay paused for a moment before looking away. He climbed onto the edge of the fountain with ease, stepping across the stones. Then he leaned back, hanging effortlessly, and leaned forward until they’re face to face.

He was too close that Sunghoon started to step back.

Jay’s finger lifted his chin. “I don’t make promises.” Jay tells him, a smile playing at his lips. “Unless I get something in return.”

Before Sunghoon could speak, Jay pulled away. Sunghoon can still feel the feather touch of his finger.

He climbs up the tree and says, “I’ll see you again, dear Sunghoon.” Disappearing through the branches just as face as he appeared.

Sunghoon stood there long after, watching as the leaves rustle in the dark, clutching the bandana tight in his hand. Somehow, he knew Jay will comeback.

And then faintly, he realized, Jay remembered his name after all.

Sunghoon walks back toward the palace, the night still cold against his skin. His mind is still restless with unanswered questions, but his body is exhausted now. He needed to sleep and rest. The castle lights draw nearer, a familiar pattern that Sunghoon memorized by now.

He is almost past the stables when he freezes.

The prince stands beside his horse, armor already shed but still dressed in his combat robe. He looks tired in a way Sunghoon rarely sees.

“You’re still awake.” Heeseung says, glancing at him only once before turning back to the horse.

“Your highness.” Sunghoon says quickly. He steps closer, nerves tightening in his chest like he was caught doing something he shouldn’t. “I was just… I couldn’t sleep.”

Heeseung doesn’t respond to that.

Sunghoon watches as the prince secures the reins of his horse loosely, like he trusts that it won’t run away, even if it could. He steps back and then his eyes drop to Sunghoon’s fidgety hands.

Sunghoon realizes too late that he is still holding the bandana. He tightens his grip as if that could hide it, as if Heeseung would notice that it is not the one he bought for him from the plaza nights ago. As if it is not a quiet secret pressed between his fingers.

Then he adds. “I was about to return to my chamber.”

Heeseung’s eyes returns to his face. An instant frown in his brows as he steps closer and reach out, thumbs brushing the scratch on Sunghoon’s cheek the same way Jay did. But this time, it was gentler, more careful.
.
“What happened to your face?” Heeseung asks as he traces the thin scratch as Sunghoon holds his breath. “Has it been tended?” Heeseung asks quietly.

Sunghoon shakes his head.

“Follow me.” Heeseung says.

Sunghoon obeys without question. He slips the bandana into his pocket, heart pounding fast and follows the prince through the quiet halls. Neither of them said a word. Only the sound of their footsteps echoes through the halls until they reach Heeseung’s chambers.

Inside, Heeseung gestures him to sit at the chair by the desk. Sunghoon does, hands folded neatly in his lap, and back straight. He keeps his eyes down as the prince changes into his night clothes as he waits.

He heard a drawer opens and moments later, Heeseung turns back with medicine in hand.

Sunghoon swallows as the prince steps closer, stopping right in front of him. The room feels too quiet, too small.

Heeseung leans slightly so they are level. “This might sting.” He says.

Sunghoon nods.

The medicine touches his skin, sharp and brief. It does sting. Sunghoon does not flinch. He does not think he deserves to.

Heeseung works carefully, focused, as if this is the most important thing in the world. Only when he finishes does he speak again. “You should have told me.” Heeseung says, not angry, just tired.

Sunghoon’s fingers curl tighter in his lap. “Iㅡ I didn’t want to worry you, your-your highness.”

“Drop it.” Heeseung replies.

Sunghoon bites his bottom lip. He guesses it is the title that does it this time. Heeseung has never said it outright before, and this is the first time it slips through. That he does not like it when Sunghoon bows to him or calls him titles. Which he never says but Sunghoon noticed anyway.

Heeseung exhales, then. “You have been tense around me lately.”

The words catch Sunghoon off guard. Not only because they are true, but because he had not wanted Heeseung to notice. “You..you’ve been very busy these days.” He says hesitantly.

Heeseung pauses like he’s thinking. “Have I?”

Sunghoon nods, fingers twisting together. “Yes. And the parade.” His voice quiets. “I know you had many things to attend to, but I still caused.. a problem. I still, still feel bad about that.”

Heeseung sighs and slides the medicine back into the drawer. The soft click feels final.

Sunghoon stands as well, hands clasped neatly in front of him.

“I will always have time for you.” Heeseung says, then.

Sunghoon freezes. He is suddenly grateful that Heeseung has turned away, that he cannot see his face. The prince has always been kind, always gentle. And yet, the more kindness he is given, the heavier the guilt sits in his chest.

He realizes he has not said anything when Heeseung turns back to face him.

Heeseung’s gaze drifts downward, settling on the faint glow of Sunghoon’s necklace in the dim room. He lifts a hand, stopping just an inch away from the pendant. For a moment, it seems like he might touch it. Then he pulls back, a quiet breath leaving him.

Through it all, Sunghoon’s heart pounds so loudly he is certain it can be heard.

Heeseung turns away again, hands folding behind his back. Sunghoon notices his fingers fidgeting.

“Should I walk you back to your chamber?” Heeseung asks.

“It is alright, yourㅡ” Sunghoon begins, then stops himself. “You should rest. I can walk on my own.”

Heeseung nods, still looking out the window.

Sunghoon takes a step toward the door. “Thank you for tending my wound.” He says softly. “I hope you have a good night.”

Sunghoon waits for a heartbit and when Heeseung does not answer, he leaves as quickly as he can, walking straight back to his chamber.

All the while, the image follows him. Heeseung’s hand hovering over his necklace, then pulling away. And before he can stop himself, another image overlaps it. Jay’s fingers, reaching without hesitation, touching the same place as if he had been allowed.

 

The next few days pass quietly. Things quietly settle much to Sunghoon’s relief. He finishes the artisan workshop ledgers without losing his mind, though the calculations take him two full days. When he finally closes the book, his eyes ache and his hands feel stiff, but the numbers are correct. That is enough.

Ni-ki invited him at the garden that afternoon, tea already prepared. The moment Sunghoon sits across from him, the young prince speaks.

“My brother scolded me.”

Sunghoon blinks at that, eyes widening as he looks at Ni-ki. The young prince does not look troubled at all, his expression calm as always, but Sunghoon notices the tight grip as he lifts his teacup. That alone surprises Sunghoon.

Heeseung and Ni-ki have always shared an easy bond. The princes are similar in quiet ways, similar in how they listen more than they speak. Sunghoon has always thought Ni-ki resembles Heeseung more than anyone else does. Ni-ki never complains and listens to his brother well.

“Did something happen?” Sunghoon asks carefully.

Ni-ki leans back in his seat, teacup still in his hand. “He said you must have felt uncomfortable when I talked about the two of you marrying during dinner. And that you are avoiding him because of it.”

Sunghoon stiffens at that. He remembers that night clearly.

He had been invited to dine with the royal family, as he sometimes is when work keeps him near the council chambers. A few greetings and how are yous here and there like the usual, then the meal had been quiet. Then, without warning, Ni-ki had spoken. “Next year, I will be old enough to take over the prince’s duties. Then Brother and Sunghoon can marry.”

Silence followed.

The king had laughed, shaking his head though his smile stayed. “My sons are already thinking about marriage.”

The queen’s eyes had moved between Heeseung and Sunghoon, hand lifted to her mouth, surprised and amused.

Heeseung had looked like he wanted the floor to swallow him whole. He could not meet anyone’s eyes.

Sunghoon had frozen in his seat, the piece of meat in his mouth impossible to swallow.

Meanwhile, Ni-ki had continued eating, unbothered, as if he had not just changed the air in the room.

Then, Heeseung had choked on his drink shortly after and excused himself. The subject was never mentioned again.

Sunghoon exhales slowly, grounding himself in the present. “That is not true.” He says at last. “His Highness has many responsibilities these days. I did not want to trouble him.”

Ni-ki watches him closely, then smiles just slightly. only Only a small satisfied one, but it’s rare of him. “I’m glad.” He says. “He would be sad if you were avoiding him.”

Sunghoon nods and does not explain further. He does not say that he knows his place. That he is only a servant. That marriage is meant for people who stand on equal ground, who share the same love, not for a prince and someone like him.

He does not say anything about Jay.

Ni-ki seems content with his answer, and that is enough.

Sunghoon lowers his gaze to his tea, the surface reflecting the sky above. He drinks quietly, keeping his thoughts to himself, as he always does.

 

One morning, a formal letter had arrived at the palace, penned by the head steward of a distant province, raising concern about irregularities in the tribute sent to the capital. When Sunghoon carefully reviewed the records, he noticed discrepancies that confirmed the worry.

The same day, he decided to visit the depot himself, to investigate the accounts and make sure that everything was in order.

 

.
The sun sat high and unforgiving above the tribute depot as Sunghoon stood near the edge of the open yard, sleeves rolled carefully to his elbows, documents balanced against his arm as he counted the crates lined before him.

He checked each marking, cross referencing them with the ledger in his hand. The dust is clinging to his skin now and sweat gathered at his temples despite his effort to ignore it. He had been standing there too long.

“Looks like the crates are stealing your attention before I can.”

Sunghoon startled, head snapping up. There, someone stood a few steps away, a wide straw hat shading his eyes and the brim casting his face in shadow. It was Jay.

He leaned casually against a crate, as though he belonged there, as though he had not appeared out of nowhere again.

Sunghoon’s heart thudded once. “You should not be here.”

Jay ignored that completely as he steps closer. Then, he lifted another hat from behind his back.“It’s hot.” He said. “Thought you might want one.”

Sunghoon hesitated despite himself, eyes lingering on the hat. The sun beat down mercilessly and he’s sweating even more now. He reached out for it.

Jay pulled it back at the last second. “Not for free.” He says with a smirk.

Sunghoon frowned. He had left his satchel at the carriage. “I do not have coin.”

Jay smiled playfully, pleased. “Then answer a question as a payment.”

Sunghoon exhaled slowly. A question that is probably something about the palace, the princes, names he should not speak of.

Jay tilted his head, studying him. Then, far too lightly, he asked, “Do you like the prince?”

Sunghoon froze. He had not even agreed with his condition yet, and now this question? The question was pure surprise, too sudden. Why would he ask such a thing? Where did he even get the idea? The words felt intrusive, too personal. “What?” He managed to say.

Jay shrugged. “That’s my question.”

Sunghoon stared at him. Of all things. “Why would you ask that?”

Jay’s eyes glinted beneath the brim of his hat. “Just answer.”

Sunghoon felt heat creep up his neck, though he could not tell if it was from the sun or something else entirely. “No.” He said quickly. “That is not… No.”

Jay hummed, considering. Then he stepped forward and, instead of handing the hat over, placed it gently on Sunghoon’s head himself.

The shade was immediate and relieving.

Jay stepped back and smiled like he was satisfied with Sunghoon’s answer. “Good.” He said. “Because I almost would not have given it to you if you said otherwise.”

Sunghoon stared at him, flustered, fingers lifting to touch the brim as Jay turned away, already walking off as if nothing strange had happened at all.

He stayed frozen, wondering what had made Jay ask such a thing and why he had smiled like that at his answer.

 

It was late afternoon when Sunghoon saw Jay again.

He had transferred to the river port after finishing at the depot, needing to confirm a few details with the operators and review the transport records himself. Whatever discrepancy existed, he would need more than numbers before speaking to the official who had sent the letter.

The river moved slowly beneath the bridge as Sunghoon stood near the edge, eyes lingering on the water while he waits for the palace carriage to arrive.
That was when he noticed a familiar figure by the stalls lining the pavement.

The hat. Sunghoon’s hand lifted instinctively at the hat he’s wearing. The wide brim still rested on his head, shielding him from the sun. He took it off, fingers curling around the woven edge as he stepped towards the stall where Jay is leaning against a vendor’s table, chewing on a piece of rice cake as he spoke with an elderly woman.

Sunghoon cleared his throat when he was a few steps behind him which had Jay turning.

Then, surprise flickered across his face before it broke into a grin which didn’t stay for too long when his gaze dropped to the hat in Sunghoon’s hands, eyes widening almost comically.

Everything happened too fast.

Jay stood quickly and grabbed the cloth covering the nearest table. He yanked it upward and back in one swift motion, pulling Sunghoon with him as the fabric fell over their heads.

“What are youㅡ”

Before Sunghoon could finish, Jay was already moving, one arm hooked on his back as he dragged him along. Half of Sunghoon’s back was pressed against Jay’s chest as they ran, the cloth bouncing around them, blocking the world into flashes of light and shadow.

Sunghoon cannot see but his feet keeps moving with Jay’s. “Where are we going!”

Jay did not answer.

They did not stop until the noise of the stalls faded into the distance. When the cloth was finally tugged away, they were standing near a narrow alley by the riverbank, tucked between storage sheds and stacks of empty crates. The air smelled faintly of damp wood and silt. The sounds of the market were distant now as both of them were breathing hard.

Jay was still close, too close, his chest rising against Sunghoon’s back until Sunghoon pulled forward sharply and turns to him.

“What was that!” Sunghoon demanded. “Why did you runㅡwhy did you make me run with you!”

“Calm down.” Jay said lightly. He reached out without asking, fingers smoothing the front of Sunghoon’s robe where it had creased during the run. “The hat.” Jay says, still holding Sunghoon’s robe. “You were not supposed to show that there.”

Sunghoon blinked, looking down. Only then did he realize his hands were empty. He must have dropped it while running. “You.. that wasn’t yours, was it?”

You stole it. Sunghoon couldn’t say.

Jay shrugged. “I borrowed it.”

“I told you to stop doing that.” Sunghoon said sharply. “You do not know what the merchants would do if they caught you. They.. they could hurt you.”

Jay laughed, head tilting slightly as he looked at him. “Do you always look that adorable when you are angry and worried?”

Sunghoon closed his mouth. Jay is not listening at all. None of what he will say is going to make sense to him. It was only then that Sunghoon looks at him….the thin scar cutting through his right eyebrow… the pale line stretching faintly across the bridge of his nose. Then his hands looked rough… marked with small scars, one finger bound in cloth.

Then thought came to him uninvited which had Sunghoon’s chest tightening… did he get those scars from climbing trees? From running too fast? Had those merchants ever caught him? Hurt him?

“Do you need help…” He asked quietly, the words leaving him before he could stop them. As if there were something he could offer. As if it were that simple.

Jay only smiled, something thoughtful flickering across his face that for a moment, Sunghoon imagined he was going to say he does need Sunghoon’s help but. But he says instead, “You looked serious at the depot earlier, was there a problem?”

Jay asked, completely ignoring the question.

Sunghoon stared at him for a moment. He hesitated, the river wind brushing past them, carrying the weight of unasked questions between them.

Sunghoon thought about it first. Tries to see Jay’s face if he was really asking or just deflecting. But he cannot force him to say things he didn’t want to and decides to just answer his question. Besides, matters like this concerned the people as much as the court.

“The palace received a notice from the East.” He said. “It claimed that our people are complaining that the barrel of oil being sent here has been coming up short.”

That had Jay frowning.

On record, fifty tanks of oil are meant to arrive every seven days. But according to the tribute overseer, only forty five have been received consistently. That is why Sunghoon needed to speak directly with the river port and verify the transport records.

Jay was quiet for a moment. His expression thoughtful.

Sunghoon glanced at him, wondering if he had said too much. He was about to speak again when Jay finally did.

“Missing oil barrels…” Jay said. “Then I hope you find the real culprit before someone gets kilㅡ punished.”

Sunghoon nodded. “I hope so too.”

Jay turned then and started walking off.

“Wait.” Sunghoon calls after him. “Where are we going? I need to return. My carriage is waiting for me.”

Jay shrugged, then looked back and offered him a hand. “Come. I will take you back.”

Sunghoon stopped, eyes dropping to Jay’s outstretched hand. He did not take it.

Jay laughed softly and pulled his hand back. “Alright then. Follow me.”

“Are we really going back to the river port?” Sunghoon hesitates for a moment.

Jay is laughing again. “Why? Would you rather I take you somewhere else?”

Sunghoon shook his head and followed, hands clasped behind his back. “To the port, please.”

 

They walked for a while in silence before Jay stopped again. “You seem nervous.” He said.

“Iㅡ I’m not.” Sunghoon denies.

“You are.” Jay insisted.

Sunghoon sighed. “I am just thinking. About how you would just appear out of the blue.. the merchants running after you.. and the times you break into the palace.”

Jay turned slightly. “So I do make you nervous.”

Sunghoon met his gaze. “I am not afraid of you, if that is what you are asking.”

Jay smiled then. Not his usual grin or smirk. Just something quiet and genuine, like he had been waiting to hear that.

They took a narrower path after that, shaded and quiet and neither of them spoke. Jay hummed under his breath, occasionally stopping to pick up a pebble or a fallen twig and rolling it between his fingers before either tossing it aside or slipping it into his pocket.

Sunghoon just followed behind him every step of the way

Soon, the river port came back into view where the palace carriage waited below the bridge. At last, he exhales. When he looks to his side, Jay was already moving away, retreating toward the alley with an easy wave of his hand but without looking back.

Sunghoon stood there a moment longer and watches him disappear before turning toward the carriage.

 

Sunghoon received the records from the river port the next morning. He reviewed them carefully, line by line. Only forty five barrels of oil were being delivered each week which matched the tribute depot’s records perfectly.

And yet, the East continued to report that fifty barrels were being sent. The discrepancy was no longer an error. It was a pattern.

He brought the matter to the palace’s General Steward, laying out the ledgers and transport reports. Sunghoon suggested that he personally travel to the East to discuss the issue. According to the records, this had been happening for some time now and he needed to do something about it. Oil was costly, essential, and five missing barrels every week meant a loss far too great to overlook.

Before his departure, Sunghoon made sure to inform Ni-ki. The young prince listened quietly and tells him to come back safely.

Then, he went to see Heeseung last. The prince stepped away from sword practice, setting his blade aside the moment he saw Sunghoon. He listened closely as Sunghoon explained the situation, the crease between his brows deepening as though he was already thinking several steps ahead. Seeing it only made the pressure settle heavier on Sunghoon’s chest.

When Sunghoon mentioned his plan to travel east to confirm everything himself, Heeseung was already loosening the straps of his training armor. “I will come with you.”

Sunghoon startled. “You do not haveㅡ”

Before Heeseung could say more, the instructor spoke up, joined by the head guard, reminding the prince that the Duke’s son was due to arrive any moment now. Heeseung stilled, caught between obligation and something he did not voice. For a brief second, he looked almost helpless, as if he might still argue.

But then,he exhales and says. “Take the guards with you.” Heeseung’s voice was firm, leaving little room to argue.

Sunghoon paused, fingers curling at his side then he shook his head.“I will be alright.”

Heeseung reached out for his wrist. “You should not go alone. It will be safer.”

Sunghoon swallowed. “I know that. But… I want to do this myself.” He hesitated, then forced the words out. “I need to handle this on my own. Please.”

Silence fell between them. Sunghoon could feel Heeseung looking at him, weighing his words, his intentions. Then he finally nodded, losening his grip on Sunghoon’s wrist. “Come back safely.”

Sunghoon bowed, careful this time, and answered, “I will.”

 

It was not as if Sunghoon would be gone for long. The journey east should only take a day or two back and forth, yet he decided it would be wiser to bring a carriage rather than ride alone. He packed a change of clothes along with his belongings.

He prepared the carriage himself, double checking the documents and the map before securing them. Ni Ki lingered nearby with a few guards, watching quietly. At the gate, one of the guards asked if Sunghoon was certain about traveling on his own.

Sunghoon nodded and offered a reassuring smile.

“May we have a moment?” Ni Ki said, his gaze fixed on Sunghoon. The request caught him off guard.

“I will return safely.” Sunghoon began once the guards have left them.

The young prince stepped closer and pressed a folded cloth into his hands. It was expensive, familiar. Sunghoon felt the weight of what's inside. When he opened it, he found a small sword that is no larger than his palm.

“Take it with you.” Ni Ki said. Sunghoon opened his mouth to protest, but the young prince continued. “I know you are not trained to use it. Still, it is better to have something to protect yourself than nothing.”

Sunghoon looked down at it. The sword was Ni Ki’s, his name carved into the handle. It had been a gift from the king and queen on his thirteenth birthday. He did not want to take something so important, but the meaning behind it weighed more than the blade itself. He held it close to his chest.

“Thank you. I will return this safely.”

“No.” Ni Ki said quietly. “You return safely.”

Sunghoon smiled, bowed to him as an unspoken promise before mounting to his horse.

 

Sunghoon made sure to stop by the tribute depot before leaving the capital. He needed to inform the staffs there of his plan, and the depot registrar agreed, providing him with additional records that might strengthen the palace’s claim.

As he arranged the documents by the roadside near the depot, stacking them carefully inside his satchel on the carriage, his thoughts tangled with worry. Five barrels of oil disappearing every week was no small matter. When he arrived in the east, he would be carrying records meant to prove the palace was right. If handled poorly, it could easily be taken as an accusation. He had to be careful. He had to protect the name of the palace.

“Small world.”

Sunghoon let out a startled gasp, then quickly steadied himself. He did not need to turn around to know who it was. He ignored the remark, securing his satchel and moving toward his horse instead.

Jay stepped into his path just as Sunghoon was about to mount.

“Where are you going?” Jay asked.

Sunghoon looked at him, tired. He did not have the time for this. Jay should not be interfering with matters as important as this.

“Is it about the missing oil barrels?” Jay added.

When Jay did not move aside, Sunghoon answered, short and honest. “Yes.”

Jay frowned. “You are going to the east alone?”

“I can handle it,” Sunghoon answered, surprising even himself with how firm hiis voice sounded. It sounded like he was trying to convince himself more than Jay.

“I know you can.” Jay replied easily, surprising Sunghoon who expects that he will be hearing doubtful remarks in return. “But if you go there with palace records that you have, they will just show you their own.”

The words caught Sunghoon off guard. He had not expected Jay to speak so logically about palace matters. Yet what he said made so much sense. If the east presented records that supported their claim which counters his, they will defend it and the truth would only grow more complicated.

Sunghoon did not notice Jay stepping closer until fingers closed around his wrist.

“Maybe you should go to the central transfer depot first.” Jay said. “Check their records before you head east.”

The central depot. Sunghoon’s thoughts raced with everything he knew about the office. All supplies passed through there, their ledgers would tell him everything.

Before he could reply, Jay is already gone as if he had never been there at all.

Sunghoon exhaled slowly. He pulled the map from his robe and traced the road with his finger. Jay was right. If he passed through the central depot first, he could gather proof before facing the east.

He folded the map carefully, tucked it back into his pocket, mounted his horse, and set off.

 

The wheels creak softly beneath him as Sunghoon keeps the carriage moving. He had already lost track of how many hours he had been traveling. He is now in the area where the road stretched long and narrow, the shadows of the lined tall trees spilling across the dirt path.

It was a cold late afternoon bled slowly into dusk.

He needed to find a place to stay before night fully settled. According to the map, there should be a waystation or a guesthouse near the outer central village by now. Sunghoon pulled out his map again, holding it carefully as he guided the reins with one hand, brows knit together to focus. He was not very familiar with this town, and the markings felt confusing.
His eyes scanned the road ahead. There were signs of life now with the lantern hooked on the tree branches waiting to be lit.

“Take the left route. It will be faster.”

“Heavens!” Sunghoon shouts.

His hands yanked the reins too hard, and the horse reared slightly, letting out an angry neigh as the carriage lurched to a stop. His hand flew to his mouth. Heart hammering so loudly it drowned out everything else. Then, slowly, he turned his head toward the voice right above his shoulder.

Jay was leaning in like he belonged there, looking at Sunghoon as if he were the one offended.

“Heavens.” Sunghoon whispered again. He exhales loud, body finally giving in. He leaned forward, both hands covering his face. The shock was too much that he can hear his heart beat on his ears.

“Are you alright?” Jay asked.

It took a moment before Sunghoon could answer. He straightened slowly, still trembling a little and looked at him. “Can you… can you please not do that again?” He said. It came out softer than he meant to, like a plea. “How did you even…”

Jay’s eyes widen as he leaned even closer “Are you crying?” He reached out instinctively.

Sunghoon turned his head away to wipe his eyes too fast with his sleeve. He already knew that he wasn’t in danger but the fear was still there, the aftermath of the shock clinging to him like second skin. The road was darker now. The trees around the area were far too tall and intimidating. He’s in an unfamiliar place where he had expected to be alone.

Jay did not stop. His hand came up again, warm against Sunghoon’s cheek as he guides his face back gently. “I did not mean to scare you.”

Sunghoon was still catching his breath. He barely registered how close Jay was.

Jay sighed and brushed away the last trace of tears with his thumb. “I hitched a ride on your carriage.”

“I can tell.” Sunghoon deadpanned.

When Jay did not reply, Sunghoon pulled away. He turned his attention to the reins, stroking the horse’s neck instead and murmuring an apology as he urged it forward again.

“You are not supposed to be here.” Sunghoon said. It was not meant to sound angry, but it's just the truth.

Sunghoon kept his gaze locked on the dark road ahead. The silence had grown thick now, almost suffocating. A strange guilt settling in his chest with the thought of how that might come out to Jay…he did not want to make it seem like he is pushing him away. But he should be doing his task and he’s not here to play yet Jay came in like a falling star.

“I did not want you going to the east alone.” Jay said at last.

That made Sunghoon frown. It didn’t make sense. Sunghoon couldn’t understand why Jay would care if he went alone to the east. Worry should only come from the palace as they were bound by lifelong duty. But Jay here was different. He is just someone who had drifted into Sunghoon’s life not long ago and somehow stayed.

“Why?” he asked.

Another beat of silence.

“You warn me to stay away from the palace, to not get caught by the merchants.” Jay said slowly. “You tell me to be careful even when you knew that I steal.” His voice softened. “Why can I not do the same for you?”

The words had caught him off guard. He remembered the night he first saw Jay at the palace, how restless and uneasy he was waiting to hear that Jay had escaped safely. He swallowed the lump in his throat he didn’t know he was holding.

Sunghoon decides he did not have an answer to that so he tightened his grip on the reins and kept the carriage moving forward, the road carrying them both into the dark.

 

They reached the outer city village without another word. The road slowly widened and the trees thinning until lantern light appeared between rooftops. As they make it to the outskirts of the central, Sunghoon passed a quiet market first. There were empty stalls stood in neat rows, wooden counters bare except for forgotten baskets and folded cloth. The smell of dried grain and oil still lingered in the air. He imagines a few merchants still come here to sell but leaves before the night comes and deems the place too empty.

By the time he spotted the guesthouse, the sky had fully darkened. The guesthouse was a modest place tucked near the road, its paper lantern swaying gently above the entrance. Sunghoon guided the carriage into a small open space beside it, meant for travelers to leave their horses and carts. He brought the carriage to a stop and exhaled, shoulders finally easing. When he leaned inside to grab his bag, his hand met only empty space.

Jay was gone.

The documents.

He straightened too fast, heart skipping as he turned his head to scan the dim street. Sunghoon’s chest tightened but not for too long. When he looks to his side, a shadow shifted. Jay stood there already holding Sunghoon’s bag out to him.

A long breath escaped from Sunghoon’s lips as he took the bag from Jay. Their fingers grazed each other unintentionally. "Thank you.” He said quietly. “I will be checking in.”

Jay nodded once but he stood still, watching as Sunghoon turned away and took a step toward the guesthouse. Then another.

He made it three more steps before the pull became impossible to ignore and so he stopped and turned back to Jay.

Jay isn’t looking anymore. Hands in his pockets and gazing toward the darker end of the road.

Sunghoon doesn’t know what he’s doing anymore when he called him. “Jay.” The name came out lower than he intends, the hesitation all too obvious.

Jay turned fully this time, eyebrows lifting in faint surprise. The streetlamp caught the dark of his eyes and made them gleam for half a second.

“You…” He faltered then tried again.. “You can come with me. If you want.” The offer hung there, fragile and too loud in the quiet. He rushed to fill the silence before it could swallow them both. “It’s late. And…. I mean, you might not have anywhere else to stay.”

Jay didn’t answer him right away and simply stared, head tilted a bit like he’s studying him. Then, a small smile had start to form in his lips. “I’ve never had a place to stay.”

The words fell plain and quiet, like pebbles into a calm pond. Sunghoon felt them sink deep beneath his ribs.

“Only if.. if you want to.” Sunghoon says softly.

“I’ll come with you.” Jay finally said.

Sunghoon didn’t look at him and turned to lead the way.

 

The guest room was on the third floor. They followed the receptionist up a narrow spiral staircase, the wooden steps creaking softly beneath their feet. Lantern light spilled along the curved walls and stretched as they climbed.

When they reached the floor, the receptionist slowed and glanced at Sunghoon with polite curiosity.

“You were sent by the palace?” He asked.

He wasn’t but Sunghoon nodded anyway. “Yes.”

The man’s gaze shifted on Jay. He looked him up and down, eyes lingering a moment too long. “And you?”

“He’s with me.” Sunghoon replied fast. “I’ll take it from here. Thank you for your assistance.”

The receptionist opened the door, bowed and left the two of them by the door frame. It was simple and clean, the floor swept spotless. There’s a desk sat near the window, a shelf by the wall, and a single bed neatly made at one corner of the room.

Sunghoon stepped aside and let Jay enter first. He watches as Jay’s eyes roamed the room like he was observing it, hands clasped behind his back as if he was afraid to touch too much. When he finally moved, it was with careful steps. He brushed over the desk with uncertain fingers like he was testing whether the place was real.

“I can just stay outside.” Jay said suddenly. “By your carriage.”

Sunghoon turned to him, startled. “Is something wrong with the room?”

Jay shook his head. “I’m just… not used to sleeping in places like this.”

The thought of it had struck a nerve which Sunghoon did not expect. His thoughts spiraled before he could stop them. Does he not have a home? When Jay said he’s never had a place to stay, does it mean he sleep wherever the night finds him? What does he do when the cold comes, or when the rain—

As if answering the thought, rain began to fall outside. The sound of the steady drops tapping against the window and roof.

“It’s raining.” Sunghoon said quietly. Then, after a pause, “I’ll wash up. Make yourself comfortable.”

Sunghoon did not wait for his answer and enters the restroom door on the right.

 

When Sunghoon returned, his hair still damp and towel in hand. He stopped short at the sight of Jay sitting on the carpet beside the bed, his back resting against the frame as if he had already decided where he belonged for the night.

There was only one bed. Sunghoon realizes that he had not thought this through. He doubted Jay would take the bed if he offered, and he was not sure how to insist without making things worse, Jay must decide to not stay the night if he does.

He moved instead to the desk, drying his hair as he checked his documents. Everything is still in tact…the records, the map, his satchel. He placed the small sword Ni-ki had given him into the drawer, closing it gently. He did not need it here.

Strangely, the room did not feel heavy. Even with another person in it. Even knowing who Jay was, and what he had done. The quiet just felt… settled.

When Sunghoon looked back, Jay was sitting cross-legged now as he reads one of the books that had been stacked on the desk earlier.

“You shouldn’t sleep on an empty stomach.” Jay suddenly says without looking up.

Sunghoon sees a piece of buttered toast had been place on the bed. He sat at the edge of the bed and murmured a soft thanks before eating in silence. His body feels tired from the long travel that he couldn’t feel his hunger so he’s glad Jay had given him that.

The atmosphere is a bit…..tense. He wasn’t used to Jay being quiet. When he finished eating, he lingers a bit longer before carefully asking, “Won’t they be looking for you? Your family?”

Jay only hums at first and when he finally lifts his gaze, there’s no defensiveness in his eyes, just calm and honest. He smiled at Sunghoon and says. “I don’t have anyone.”

And that was another struck to the nerve. He does not trust himself to look at Jay any longer so he faced away. “I’m sorry…for asking.” He whispered.

 

They settled in without much else said. Sunghoon lay on the bed and turns onto his side, and murmured a quiet good night to Jay which the latter answered with a low hum from the floor. The rain outside softened to a steady rhythm and the room now darker with the lights off.

The quietness of the unfamiliar room only made his thoughts race louder… circling the same worries again and again. The records..the missing barrel…the questions from the higher ups waiting for him at the central depot, and after that, the east. He imagined their strict faces, careful but sharp words, the way one mistake could turn into an accusation. His chest felt tight with it.

At some point, he felt the air in the room changed, or rather, he heard it.

Sunghoon stayed still and kept his eyes close as he listened to the quiet movement beside the bed. The faint sound of a moving matress brushing the floor.

Jay.

He was closer now. Sunghoon sensed him rising onto his knees, close enough that their faces would be level if he opened his eyes.

Then he felt it.

Fingers, careful and hesitant, brushing against the pendant at his neck. The touch was so light it almost felt unreal, as if his mind had imagined it. His heart skipped and then began to pound. Fear rushed in before he could stop it. For a moment, his thoughts flooded all at once. Is he taking the necklace? Was this his intention all along that’s why he’d followed Sunghoon anywhere? Had he been so foolish to trust him, wrong to let him stay, wrong to sleep so carelessly beside someone who lived by stealing… a thief?

Sunghoon tried to stay still. Afraid that even a small movement can turn this around. What would happen if Jay finds out he’s awake? Would he hurt him? Would he run away in shame if he’s caught? His breath remained shallow as he counted the seconds, waiting for the chain to be pulled free.

But it never was.

The touch lingered, uncertain, but then slowly slipped away. Jay’s fingers released the necklace with the same care they had touched it. Relief flooded through Sunghoon so suddenly it left him weak, his chest aching from how tightly he had held himself.

A few heartbeats and then there’s warmth again. Sunghoon felt soft fingers brushed his hair back, tucking loose strands behind his ear. The gesture was gentle, llingering just long enough to be felt before retreating.

“Good night, Sunghoon.” He heard Jay whispered.

Sunghoon kept his eyes closed through all that, waited until the presence beside him shifted away, until the room settled back into quiet.

Outside, the rain tapped softly against the window. Somewhere in that calm, sleep finally took him.

 

Despite the rain from the night before, Sunghoon woke to sunlight in his face. He yawned and pushed himself upright although still half asleep. The presence of someone standing by the window made him froze

Jay.

He was looking outside. Sunghoon noticed his hair still damp, his robe nowhere in sight and his body loosely wrapped in a towel cloth. He must have heard the movement because he turned to Sunghoon with a smile. “Good morning.”

“Good morning.” Sunghoon replied.

The necklace….

The memories of the night before rushed back all together and Sunghoon was sure it wasn’t just a dream. Without thinking, his hand flew to his chest to feel the necklace, expecting that it would be gone. Then, his fingers closed around the pendant just to feel it. Relief washed through him to feel that it was there, followed by the memory of Jay’s light fingers holding it then carefully letting it go. The feel of his touch when he brushed his hair and tucked behind his ear, the whisper of good night.

But then the worry stirred again, slow and unwelcome. What had Jay meant to do? Sunghoon thinks as he tightened his grip on the necklace. Had he truly meant to take it? If he had wanted it, why hadn’t he taken it when he had the chance? His mind tangled with all these questions.

“I made you tea.” Jay said, breaking the silence. “You should drink it before it gets cold.”

Sunghoon looked at him, then at the cup and teapot resting on the desk. “I’ll wash up first.” He said and headed to the restroom.

When he returned, Jay was by the window again, shaking out his robe and dusting it carefully. He probably had washed and dried it after waking up early. Sunghoon said nothing. He took the chair by the desk instead and poured himself a cup of tea.

“Oh…”

Jay must have noticed his pause. “What’s wrong?” He asked, worried. “Is it bad?”

Sunghoon shook his head. “No. It’s just… similar to the tea I drink at the palace.” He took another sip. “It’s good.”

He didn’t add that it reminded him of the tea Ni-ki used to make.

Jay nodded,a pleased smile tugging at his lips. “You don’t seem to be in a hurry.”

Sunghoon nodded in return, speaking while his eyes stayed on the cup. “I’m thinking of going at noon. I don’t want to bombard them with something like this early in the morning. It would be rude.” He paused. “And besides, it’s better if my visit comes as a surprise. Mornings are hectic at the depots.”

Jay had agreed.

They were quiet after that. Both wrapped in the stillness of the morning.

Then Jay spoke. “There are food stalls by the sea nearby.”

They checked out of the guest house once the sun had fully risen, guiding the carriage through the village as it came alive around them.

The sun was already high when they arrived. The shoreline opened before them, a small stretch of white sand meeting the quiet sea, dotted with modest food stalls. Smoke curled from open grills, carrying the scent of salt and warm oil on the breeze.

They parked the carriage beneath the shade of a tall coconut tree and gave the horse water. Before moving on, Sunghoon adjusted the strap of his satchel, settling it securely across his body to make sure it rested close where he could feel its weight and contents.

Just as Sunghoon finished adjusting the strap of his bag, he turned and nearly collided with Jay who returned with a straw hat in his hands. He lifted it carefully before placing it atop Sunghoon’s head.

“I didn’t steal it this time.” Jay said before Sunghoon could even open his mouth.

Sunghoon blinked, then glanced past him. Among the scattered stalls by the shore, he spotted the middle-aged man sitting on the white sand, a small pile of straw hats laid neatly beside him. If Jay had stolen it, there was no chance he would dare wear it so openly here. He must have paid or traded it.

“I’ll pay—” Sunghoon started, already reaching for his coin satchel.

Jay cut him off before he could pull it free.

“You always let the sun kiss your skin.” Jay said quietly. He reached up, brushing a few loose strands of hair back behind Sunghoon’s ear as if it were the most natural thing in the world. “Just make sure you bring this every time you go outside. In case I’m not around.”

He was too close and Sunghoon could see it now….the faint line of two moles beneath Jay’s left eye, another resting at the center of his brow. The thin scars along his face caught the light which was usually softened by shadow, yet somehow they only added to the sharpness of his features, the kind of presence that lingered longer the more you looked.

He didn’t realize he had been staring until he flinched when Jay’s warm hand had found his wrist. “Let’s go?”

Sunghoon surprised himself by smiling back and allows
Jay to tug him gently toward the first stall.

Jay took a stick of grilled squid from the grill, blowing at it carefully and offering it to Sunghoon. “Try it.”

Sunghoon didn’t take it right away.The scent is too strong.

Jay lifted the skewer closer to Sunghoon who stared at it. Then Jay held it closer when Sunghoon leaned in and took a small bite. It was still a bit hot, yet savory. He chewed faster when the spice starts to hit.

“Is it good?” Jay asked.

“It is.” Sunghooon nodded, still chewing.

Without a word, Jay lifted his thumb to brush away the tiny smear of chili powder under Sunghoon’s lip. It lingered for a while, and he can feel Jay staring at his mouth. Then Jay pressed the same thumb to his own lips and licked the residue away. Sunghoon’s next inhale stuttered, surprise at the action but he pretends to ignore it.

“It is.” Jay echoed.

They moved from one vendor to the next. From grilled fish wrapped in leaves, skewered meat still sizzling, sweet rice cakes dusted with sugar and coconut.
Sunghoon hesitated at nearly every stall, polite to a fault, his hand hovering awkwardly at his side. Jay noticed every time.

“You don’t have to finish it.” Jay would say, pressing a skewer into his hand anyway. “Just try.”

And every time, Sunghoon did.

 

They sat beside each other on the stones facing the sea, the wind cool against their skin despite the high sun. They were close enough that a single careless breath would make their shoulders touch. Sunghoon inhaled without thinking, and they did.

“Tired?” Jay asked.

“You could say that.” Sunghoon answered honestly.
He let his gaze drift toward the water, the way the light broke against its surface and thought distantly that he had never felt this light before. This… unburdened.

And just then, the realization hits way too fast it unsettled him. He should not be here, should not be letting himself enjoy this. His duties waited, heavy and unyielding. The weight of the sudden unwanted thought feels suffocating.

As if hearing his thoughts, Jay spoke. “I had fun with you just now.” He said quietly. “I hope you did too. With me.”

Sunghoon had a lot of things in his mind right now but he simply nodded, eyes dropping to his bare foot on the water.

“You don’t need to hold back your smile when you’re with me.” Jay added.

That made him look up. For a moment, Sunghoon felt strangely seen, as though Jay had reached straight through skin and bone to cradle the very core of what kept him guarded. The expectations. The palace. All of it. Without realizing it, a small smile has curved his lips, like a secret meant for Jay alone.

And suddenly, everything went dark. Sunghoon startled as the brim of his straw hat was pulled down to cover his eyes.

“Don’t do that.” Jay hissed lightly as he stood.

Sunghoon’s heart jumped in confusion and worry. Had he done something wrong? “What do youㅡ”

He pulled up the hat only to see Jay smiling wide as he offered Sunghoon a hand. “Shall we go?” Jay asked, smiling.

Sunghoon took his hand.

 

The meeting with the higher-ups at the Central Depot was just as difficult as Sunghoon had expected.

They were all middle-aged men, stern and eyes sharp as they scrutinized every word he spoke. No matter how carefully he explained the missing oil barrels, how clearly he laid out the inconsistencies between the records, they only listened with folded arms and unreadable expressions. In the end, they refused his requests outright. No documents. No copies. No compromises.

Sunghoon felt small throughout the entire exchange, his voice sounding thinner the longer it went on.

An unwanted idea darted across his mind... would have been easier if Prince Heeseung had come with him because maybe they would have listened then?

He shook his head almost immediately. No. He should not be thinking that way. This was his duty. His task. He could not keep hiding behind the prince’s authority. And he could not return to the palace empty-handed, nor could he go to the East without proper records before a confrontation. That would only invite suspicion and disgrace.

His mind is clouded with al of it as he stepped out of the depot building. Should he return to the palace and ask for written permission from the prince so he can obtain records.. but what kind of a steward is he if he cannot do that on his own? Should he go straight to the East and present his claim without the Central records? They could easily refuse to believe him, accuse the palace of falsifying reports instead. He could not risk that.

“You okay?”

Sunghoon gasped softly, startled. But before he could answer, Jay was already stepping closer.

“You were taking too long.” Jay said.

Sunghoon only nodded, eyes lowering to the papers clutched in his hands. The explanation died in his tongue as the sound of hooves thundered toward them. It seemed urgent.

Sunghoon lifted his gaze just in time as the rider drew near, still majestic despite the dust clinging to the horse and cloak. The realization struck him half a breath too late. “Yoㅡyour highness!” He stammered and drops into a deep bow. He stayed bent forward, silently hoping Jay was doing the same.

The horse stopped and footsteps folllowed. When Sunghoon finally straightened, he glanced to his side and saw that Jay had not moved an inch. The way Jay stands still and stares directly at the prince made Sunghoon feel uneasy.

“My, my.” The prince said lightly. “I thought you came with the palace prince.”

“N–No, your highness,” Sunghoon replied quickly, bowing again. “The prince is… busy.”

“Even for you?” The prince asked.

There was an implication there that the question had Sunghoon taken aback. He lowered his gaze when he deemed he had no answer to the prince’s question.

Then the prince laughed, covering his mouth as if amused by his own remark. “How rude of me.” He said while shaking his head. “Greeting someone I have not seen in so long like that.” He reached for Sunghoon’s hand and pressed a kiss to the back of it. “Especially to a future royal.”

Sunghoon pulled away without thinking. “I–That isn’t the case, Prince Jungwon.” He said quickly.

Jungwon’s gaze drifted to Jay and lingers for a brief moment. Sunghoon is dead worried Jay might say something reckless. But then the prince’s attention returned to him.

“Anyway.” Jungwon continued, “I heard you came for the depot documents.”

Sunghoon felt fear crept up his spine. Not expecting that his visit will reach the palace. It’s true that he should’ve asked permission first but it will take a lot of time and he believes a single document at the depot does not need to involve the palace anyway. Before he could explain, Jungwon reached beneath his robe and pulled out a bundle of papers, holding them out to him.

“Here you go.”

Are those the depot documents he was asking for being handed to him by the Central prince himself? “Your highness, they said I wasn’t allowed to obtain—”

“Oh, you needn’t worry.” Jungwon said airily. “They won’t be returning to the depot tomorrow. Or the days after that.”

“What do you—”

“I’m joking.” The prince laughed. “But this doesn’t come free.”

Sunghoon instantly braces himself for whatever price would follow.

“Come to the palace.” Jungwon said, already mounting his horse. “Have dinner with me tonight.”

A dinner at the palace in exchange for a depot document doesn’t feel right. Sunghoon then sees the way Jungwon’s gaze shifted to Jay, something sharp and knowing passing through his eyes.

“Some people never learn from the past.” He added lightly. “Let’s see where this gets you.” Then he rode away.

They remained standing there long after the sound of hooves faded. Sunghoon knew those last words were not meant for him. He glanced at Jay who’s still watching the retreating figure, his expression dark and unreadable… Sunghoon couldn’t help but wonder what the words meant for him.

 

The silence stretched as they made their way back to the carriage. Sunghoon tried to read through the depot documents Prince Jungwon had given him, eyes skimming line after line, but nothing made sense. The words blurred together as the prince’s last remark echoed restlessly in his head. It had not been meant for him but it was meant for Jay.

Does that mean they knew each other? With the way the prince talked about himㅡ

“Will you be going to dinner with the prince?” Jay asked suddenly.

There was no point pretending he had a choice. “I don’t think I can refuse,” he said. Then, before he could stop himself, he turned to Jay. “Do you know him? The prince.”

Jay did not answer.

Sunghoon’s grip tightened around the papers in his hands. “He talked about you.” He added, his voice sharper now.

Still no answer.

“He wouldn’t talk that way if he didn’t know you.” Sunghoon pressed. “You don’t speak like that to a stranger.”

Jay finally spoke, calm and measured. “I know his face. And his name.”

“Then why would he—” Sunghoon cut himself off, breath hitching. His hands trembled with frustration. “Why would he say that to you?”

Jay exhaled softly. “I don’t know about him.” He said. “Maybe he knows about me.”

“About you?” Sunghoon echoed, disbelief breaking through. He stepped closer without realizing it, his voice dropping to a strained whisper. “What about you? Your real name? It’s not Jay, isn’t it? Where you came from? Just….who are you really?”

Jay turned to him then. “This is me, Sunghoon.” He said simply. “You know I steal from merchants. I sneak into the palace. I wander because there’s nowhere else to go.”

Sunghoon swallowed hard. “Then why do you always show up?”

Jay did not hesitate. “Because I want to see you.”

The words startled him…unexpected. He looked away quickly, clutching the documents tighter to his chest. He still did not understand Jay’s intentions. There were too many unanswered questions between them… one afraid to ask and the other afraid to answer. Still, in this quiet space with just the two of them, unguarded and close, it all felt so fragile. Like something that would shatter if he pushed any further…. but that was something he did not want to lose.

He turned toward the horse and rested a hand against its flank.

“Please come with me to the palace,” Sunghoon said quietly and mounted the horse without looking baxk.. “You don’t have to go inside.”

“Of course.” Jay answered behind him with certainty. “Of course I’ll be there.”

 

Sunghoon led the horse by the reins, eyes fixed on the map in his hands. He slowed his steps every so often, checking the markings, committing the route to memory before folding it carefully and tucking it away.

“Are you heading to the palace already?” Jay asked from the carriage. Sunghoon can hear his voice clearly. He must have been leaning out with head peeking past the curtain.

Sunghoon nodded, glancing back at him only briefly before looking ahead again. “Yes.”

It was still early for dinner. The sun had not yet begun its descent. That must have been why Jay asked.

They reached the palace not long after. The structure rose from the stone grounds like something carved from authority itself, towering walls gleaming beneath the daylight, banners fluttering high above. Guards lined the gates with their spears upright. Even the air felt heavier here.

Sunghoon straightened instinctively as he approached.

“I am Sunghoon.” He said to the gate guard at his bedt attempt of a steady voice. “A servant from the Southern Castle. I was asked by Prince Jungwon himself to attend dinner this evening.”

The guard studied him for a moment, then nodded. His gaze shifted to the carriage behind him.

“And the other?”

“My driver.” Sunghoon answered without hesitation. “He’ll remain in the outer grounds.”

After a brief exchange between the guards, the gates opened wide enough to allow them in.

Sunghoon turned to Jay. “I won’t take long.”

Jay did not reply right away and instead stepped closer. He wrapped his arms around Sunghoon in a warm embrace. The suddenness of it stole Sunghoon’s breath away and his body tensed for a heartbeat before easing to the warmth seeping through him, steady and grounding. Jay’s hands were gentle, careful, as if he were afraid of holding too tightly.

“Why?” Sunghoon asked quietly when Jay finally pulled away.

Jay shook his head, forcing a small smile that did not quite reach his eyes. “Come back safely.”

Sunghoon nodded. “I will.”

A promise.

He turned and made his way inside the palace grounds, resisting the urge to look back.

 

Sunghoon followed a court attendant as they crossed the outer grounds. He expected to be led deeper into the palace, past the gardens and marble corridors but they did not make it far.

There stood Prince Jungwon beneath a wide tree beside the castle wall. The prince had his fixed gaze at at a target fixed against the trunk with darts struck deep into its center, like he was admiring his work.

His back was turned, yet the moment Sunghoon and the attendant drew close, Jungwon spoke as if he had been waiting all along.

“Oh.” He said brightly, glancing over his shoulder with a wide grin. “You’re early.”

He plucked a dart free and tucked it casually behind his ear, as though it were nothing more than an ornament.

Sunghoon bowed at him.

“You may leave.” Jungwon told the attendant.

The attendant bowed quickly and retreated, leaving them alone beneath the tree.

Sunghoon tightened his grip on the documents in his hands. He sees the way Jungwon had noticed as his gaze flicks briefly to the papers before returning to Sunghoon’s face.

“Your highness.” Sunghoon began carefully. “I apologize, but I may have to refuse your dinner invitation. I have an important task that requires my immediate attention.”

Jungwon tilted his head. “More important than me?”

Sunghoon bowed again, deeper this time. “I’m sorry, your highness. You may have the documents back—”

“No.”

The refusal was immediate.

Sunghoon expected that. Princes do not take back what they had already given or said. Prince Heeseung was the same. Even Ni-ki followed that unspoken rule.

Jungwon did not appear offended by the rejection. If anything, his eyes gleamed with interest.. and mischief. He was the sort of person who did unexpected things…handing over records denied by the depot, inviting a servant to dinner as if it were a game.

Jungwon’s gaze traveled slowly over Sunghoon, deliberate enough to make his shoulders tense.

When he noticed, Jungwon chuckled. “Relax. I expected this. You refusing dinner with another prince…. Prince Heeseung wouldn’t like that, would he?”

Sunghoon swallowed. “Prince Heeseung has nothing to do with my decision, your highness. I simply have a matter I must attend to—”

“Like what?” Jungwon interrupted lightly. “That filthy thief?”

The word struck Sunghoon harsh.

Jay.

So Jungwon did know him after all.

Sunghoon’s chest tightened at feeling lost. He wanted to protest, to say that Jay was…. yes, he may be a thief but he’s not filthy— but the thought stopped him cold. Speaking back to a prince was not something he could afford.

“I’m joking.” Jungwon laughed and the sound pulled Sunghoon’s gaze upward again. “Don’t look so troubled. Since you’re refusing my dinner invitation, how about you pay me back another way?”

Was that another tease or insult coming out from thr Prince’s mouth? Sunghoon had never felt smaller.

“Answer me honestly..” Jungwon said.

Sunghoon nods despite himself.

“Do you know what happened to the missing gallons of fuel thirteen years ago?”

Thirteen years ago… He had been eight by the time. He will not remember at such a young age. “I apologize, your highness. I do not. I don’t think I’ve ever heard of it.” He hesitated but still asked anyway. “What happened—?”

“Oh.” Jungwon replied with a shrug. “Is that so. Then never mind.”

Before Sunghoon could ask anything more, Jungwon raised a hand. A guard who had been lingering nearby immediately approached.

“It was a pleasure meeting you again, Sunghoon.” Jungwon said pleasantly. “Come visit me sometime. It gets lonely here.”

The guards moved in and gestured for Sunghoon to follow.

Sunghoon bowed one last time before allowing himself to be escorted away, questions weighing heavier than the documents in his hands.

 

When Sunghoon returned to the outer grounds, Jay was leaning against the carriage with his eyes on the ground. He straigtens immediately when he saw Sunghoon and met his half way.

Jay’s hands came to rest on Sunghoon’s shoulders, steady and warm as he searched his face. “Are you okay?” He asked quietly.

Sunghoon glanced around instinctively. They were standing far too close. But the guards at the gates were facing outward, attention fixed on the road beyond the palace walls and not on them.

“I refused the dinner invitation.” Sunghoon said under his breath. “I want to head straight to the east. There’s no point delaying things any further.”

Jay studied him for a moment longer, then nodded.

 

The documents… according to the central records, the barrels of essential supplies such as gas, oil, and alcohol were being transported inside massive cargo containers, rendering any precise tracking impossible. Prince Jungwon had entrusted him with these files spanning the last five years, and as Sunghoon cross-referenced the notes, he noticed the inconsistencies… They were logged as litters yet in the palace's accounting, everything was vaguely lumped under "barrels." It could easily hide discrepancies or even theft, and it gnawed at him as he pieced together the puzzle of mismanaged resources across the kingdoms.

Sunghoon thinks the best solution now is to head straight to the East. There, he could convene with the officials with layed out computations side by side, and compare the data from their own meticulous ledgers to those from the Central hub and the Eastern depots.

But first, he needed to steel himself for the confrontation… presenting this to the eastern higher-ups would require not just facts and he sure did not want to ignite a firestorm.

 

They moved quickly after that. Sunghoon mounting the horse while Jay stays inside the carriage. Jay had leaned forward as they set off, unfolding the map between them to point out the routes.

“You’re sure about going now?” Jay asked. “There aren’t any shortcuts. We’ll have to pass through the mountains to avoid the river. It’ll take time.”

“It’s fine.” Sunghoon replied. “Leaving in the morning would only waste more of our time.”

 

The road led them away from the palace and into quieter paths, wide forest routes lined with tall trees. Though the land felt isolated, signs of life appeared here and there. The small houses are tucked back from the road with lanterns hanging from branches.

It gets even darker as the night deepened, but the moon was bright enough to light the road ahead of them. Jay offered more than once to take over, suggesting for him to rest while he drove the horse but Sunghoon refused every time.

“This is my task.” He said. “I won’t burden you with it.”

 

It was well into the night when they finally stopped, reaching a small clearing at the foot of the mountains. There was a quiet pond reflecting the moonlight. Sunghoon dismounted stiffly, legs aching, and moved to fetch water to make the horse drink.

“Let’s rest for a while.” He says as exhaustion creeping into his voice.

He sat on a fallen tree nearby, the forest around them hushed and the cold air sharp against his skin.

Behind him, Jay shifted through the carriage. When he emerged, he carried a bag of bread and dried meat along with a flask of water they had bought earlier at the market.

“Thank you.” Sunghoon murmured.

They ate in silence, the only sounds the night insects, the soft rustle of leaves, and the steady breathing of the horse beside them.

 

That night, Sunghoon’s thoughts refused to settle. He thought of the confrontation waiting for him in the East, of facing officials who would scrutinize his every word of the mismatched depot data. He rehearsed it over and over in his head… how he would argue his case, how he would deny their accusations if they arose, how he would lay the ledgers down and prove the discrepancies with just numbers and ink.

Then his thoughts drifted back to the palace. To the young prince who was likely waiting for his return. To Prince Heeseung, too, whose presence lingered in the back of his mind like a steady shadow.

And then, unbidden, Prince Jungwon’s voice echoed again. That filthy thief.

The memory struck sharp, like a pinch to the chest. Sunghoon frowned faintly as he stared at the dark water of the pond. Thirteen years ago. The missing fuel barrels. Prince Jungwon’s oddly asking him about it so casually.

He wondered briefly…..if it had anything to do with Jay. But it didn’t make sense. Jay looked close to his age, perhaps only a year or two older or maybe even younger? And thirteen years ago, he would have been a child too. What could a child possibly have to do with missing palace records or altered depot data? The thought left him uneasy all the same.

Should he ask him? Sunghoon shook his head, dismissing the idea before it could take root. Despite Jay’s gentleness, despite how easily he laughed with him, how comfortable the silence felt between them… there was still something fragile there. Something unspoken. Are they friends now? He supposed they are..?

But whatever is between them seems too delicate, like glass held too tightly would shatter. Sunghoon didn’t want to be the one to break it.

“You want to nap in the carriage?” Jay said suddenly. “I’ll stay awake. Keep an eye on you.” When Sunghoon looked at him, Jay adds, “And the horse. And the documents.”

Sunghoon huffed a quiet breath. “Wait here.”

He walked to the carriage and pulled out the thin mattress stored beneath the seat, spreading it over the flattened ground near the pond. Jay watched him without comment, arms loosely crossed. Sunghoon sat down first then tapped the empty space beside him where Jay sits.

The mattress was wide enough but they sat close regardless, shoulders brushing and warmth bleeding through layers of cloth. The sky was dark above them and open as the moon casting pale light across the clearing.

In that glow, Sunghoon noticed the scars along Jay’s skin, faint lines and marks catching the silver light. “Did they hurt?” Sunghoon asked quietly. “When you got them?”

Jay blinked, then turned to him. “What hurt?”

“Your scars.” Sunghoon said, eyes fixed on the pond ahead.

Jay shook his head with a smile. “Old folks say the more trouble kids get into, the more scars they get.”

Sunghoon hated the implication of Jay getting hurt. The thought of it alone anchored itself inside him. But when he looked at Jay who’s grinning at him so brightly, as if the past had never touched him, it made Sunghoon smile back at him. “Be careful.” He said quietly.

Jay’s gaze lingered on him, unreadable. Sunghoon waited for him to say something, but instead Jay leaned back against the mattress, hands folding behind his head and he yawned out loud.

“Sleep if you’d like.” Sunghoon said as he yawns too. “You look exhausted.”

“You look like you’re about to fall over.” Jay replied. “Come lie back too.”

Sunghoon hesitated. He shifted carefully so they wouldn’t be too close and lowers himself onto the mattress. But before he could fully settle, Jay had straightened one arm, guiding Sunghoon without a word until the back of his head rested against Jay’s forearm.

“It’s more comfortable this way.” Jay said simply.

Sunghoon didn’t argue.

He stared up at the sky, breath catching just slightly. The stars stretched endlessly above them, scattered like spilled light. He thought they looked impossibly beautiful, distant and quiet, watching over everything without judgment.

“Thank you for coming with me.” Sunghoon said after a while. “You helped a lot… with the directions.”

“You were angry when you found out I hitched a ride on your carriage.” Jay said.

“Just… surprised.” Sunghoon admitted. “You know a lot about maps. Do you like traveling?”

“I just don’t like staying in one place.” Jay answered.

Sunghoon thought of the night Jay told him he wasn’t used to sleeping under a proper roof. That he had no place to stay.

“Until now.” Jay added softly.

Sunghoon turned his head to Jay who’s still facing the stars. When Jay glanced back, Sunghoon returned his gaze upward and pretends to be interested in the sky again. He could feel Jay looking at him, his eyes drifting briefly to the necklace at his throat. This time, there was no fear. No tightness in his chest.

What Jay said sounded a lot like a confession and Sunghoon didn’t know what to do with that thought. He only knew his heart was pounding, a comforting warmth spreading slowly through his chest.

“Remember what you asked me before?” Sunghoon closed his eyes. “If I ever felt trapped in the palace?”

Jay didn’t answer so Sunghoon continued.

“I’ve never felt that way. It’s always been a home to me. A place where I belong… where I’m bound to serve, and someday die for.”

A pause.

“Are the people there…” Jay asked carefully.“Are they kind to you?”

Sunghoon nodded, the steady warmth of Jay’s arm beneath his head grounding him. “The instructors and guards can be strict sometimes. The maids can be grumpy over something so simple. But I’m used to it. The princes—” He corrected himself. “The royal family are good people.”

“I’m glad.” Jay said. “I’m glad they’re kind to you.”

Sunghoon smiled faintly and closed his eyes again.
Sometime between the cold air and the steady sound of Jay’s breathing, he fell asleep on Jay’s arms.

The sky was still pale up above when Sunghoon woke before dawn. When he shifted, his body protested immediately, aching from a night spent on the ground with nothing but a mattress beneath him.

Strangely, his neck didn’t hurt. When he glanced down, there was a folded cloth tucked beneath his head. Sunghoon recognized it as one of the covers from the carriage.

He pushed himself up and noticed the horse still resting nearby. When he looks by the pond, Jay stood knee-deep in water with his robe stripped from his upper body. The morning light caught on his damp skin, on the faint scars Sunghoon now recognized without trying.
.
Jay must have noticed him from the corner of his eye because he straightened up and walked over. Sunghoon stood too, gathering the mattress from the ground and folding it neatly. By the time Jay reached him he was already dressed again with his hair still damp.

“There’s still bread from yesterday.” Jay said. “I warmed the teapot too, if you want something warm.”

Sunghoon nodded, carrying the mattress back to the carriage with Jay following close behind. “I’ll have the tea. Thank you.”

They sat together on the fallen tree again, sharing bread and tea in the quiet of the early morning watching as the sun rises.

When they finished, Jay stood and faced him. “You can wash up in the pond.”

Sunghoon nodded, then hesitated. The pond was open and it felt too exposed, even if it was just the two of them….

“I won’t look.” Jay said as if he’d read the thought from his face.

Sunghoon nodded again and made his way to the water. It was so cold… and so he washed quickly, breath fogging in the air before retreating back to the carriage.

 

Soon after, they resumed their journey east. The forest road twisted endlessly, narrow paths looping back on themselves. When the turns grew too frequent, Sunghoon finally relented and allowed Jay to take the reins. He watched him guide the horse with practiced ease, the map folded neatly in his hands.

 

By the time they crossed into the outer reaches of the eastern lands, signs of the living world crept back into sight. The distant lights, the silhouettes of rooftops, and then the sun that had fully rise. The heat lingered thick and suffocating now and Sunghoon decides it wouldn’t be safe for the horse to keep going.

They stopped at a wayside inn, a cluster of small huts standing far apart from one another. They were greeted warmly by an elderly man in charge and helped them secure the carriage. He even offered hay and water for the horse without being asked.

The room they were given was small but welcoming. A single large bed took up most of the space and a washroom tucked off to the side. It smelled faintly of detergent and old wood.

“Did you sleep last night?” Sunghoon asked as they stepped inside.

He suspected the answer already. Jay had promised to stay awake to watch over him, the horse and the documents.

“I slept in the carriage on the way here.”

Sunghoon paused, looking at him. “Thank you.” He said after a moment.

Jay only smiled as if it were nothing at all.

 

Sunghoon chose to rest on the couch instead of the bed, just in case Jay decided to use it. He had been there for some time now, the depot documents spread across his lap, rereading the same lines over and over. He already knew what he planned to say when he reached the East, but it felt safer to review everything again and make sure he wouldn’t miss even the smallest detail.

Sunghoon lowered the papers and looked up when a soft knock came from the door as Jay peeked his head in.

“Have you ever been to a hot spring?” Jay asked. His face was flushed, skin damp with sweat, as if he’d just come from the heat outside.

A hot spring…in this weather? The sun hadn’t fully set yet, no longer harsh like noon but the air was still heavy and humid. Sunghoon shook his head. “Only the lords at the palace use hot springs.” He said quietly. “Not servants like me.”

Jay grinned immediately and stepped inside. Only then did Sunghoon notice he was bare above the waist again, robe nowhere in sight, just loose trousers.

Sunghoon looked away immediately, eyes dropping back to the documents pretending to read while Jay rummaged through the washroom.

Jay returned and stopped in front of him, holding out folded pieces of cloth. “Come with me. I found a waterfall and a spring. It’ll help you relax.”

Sunghoon hesitated, but he accepted the cloth and unfolded it slightly. White trousers that are siimilar to Jay’s, and a thin inner robe made of light fabric. “Is it far?” He asked.

Jay shook his head and took Sunghoon’s other hand, helping him up from the couch as if he truly needed the assistance. “Just at the foot of the mountain.” He said. “Change first. I’ll wait outside.”

Sunghoon did as told. When he stepped out of the cottage now dressed, the fabric felt too light against his skin. He swallowed when he noticed the way Jay’s gaze lingered too openly, before Jay looked away as if nothing had happened.

“Let’s go.” Jay said.

He held Sunghoon by the wrist as they walked. The path wasn’t long, but the ground was rocky and the soil uneven beneath their feet. Sunghoon was grateful for the steady pull guiding him forward. As they went deeper into the trees, he began to hear the rush of water. It's then that the air grew thick with steam, mingling with the scent of soil and leaves.

The waterfall came into view, white water spilling down dark stone and mist rising where it met the pond below. The sound that filled the clearing drowned out everything else.

“It’s colder near the edges.” Jay said. “But warmer closer to the falls. Come on.”

Sunghoon let himself be guided. The water was cold at first, shocking against his skin as it washed away the dirt from the path. But the deeper he stepped, the gentler it became. Jay moved carefully, never letting go of him.

“Can you swim?” Jay asked.

“A servant should know how.” He answered as the water now reached their chest.

“Yeah?” Jay smirked then he let go of his wrist.

It’s only then did Sunghoon realize that Jay had still been holding him the entire time. Sunghoon nearly stumbled over a stone hidden beneath the water. He didn’t see it in time, the depth blocking everything below that made his footing slipped.

He didn’t fall far because Jay was quick to catch him by the arm before he could go under. But the water had already surged up all over him, soaking and hair and his clothes completely.

Jay laughed.

“That wasn’t funny.” Sunghoon sputtered slightly. “I almost drowned.”

He glanced down and only then realized how thin the fabric really was now that it was drenched, the robe darkened and pressed close to his body. Heat crept up his neck when he noticed Jay’s gaze lingering a second too long. Instinctively, Sunghoon wrapped his arms around himself pretending it was from the cold.

It wasn’t cold. It was a hot spring.

“Sorry.” Jay said but still smiling. “I thought you said you could swim.” He loosened his grip on Sunghoon’s arm and stepped back. “Can you manage on your own?”

“I can.” Sunghoon muttered, rolling his eyes as he moved past him. He waded carefully this time, ignoring Jay’s quiet chuckle behind him. By the time he reached the base of the waterfall, Jay was there too.

Sunghoon tested the water with his handss… it was warm and soothing but not burning.

“It gets better if you stay longer.” Jay said beside him.

Sunghoon stepped beneath the falling water, following Jay’s lead. The first rush of water startled him, but the warmth slowly settled into his muscles, easing the ache from the road. He leaned back against the stone and closed his eyes.

When he peeked sideways, Jay was doing the same. His head tilted slightly as water streamed down his hair and shoulders.

Sunghoon’s gaze lingered longer than it should have.
He noticed more scars on his skin… faint lines at Jay’s neck, one more pronounced along his arm. They didn’t take away from him. If anything, they made Jay seem… real. Dangerous in a quiet way. Striking.

His hands had lifted before he realized it. His fingers drifting toward the small, heart-shaped scar at Jay’s neck and stopped himself just in time.

Jay opened his eyes at the exact moment.

It had Sunghoon pull his hand back quickly, clasping both hands behind him as if nothing had happened. He closed his eyes again and focused on the water instead.

They stayed like that for a long while.

Then Sunghoon felt it on his skin… Jay’s gaze was on him.

“You’re staring.” Sunghoon said, accusing without even opening his eyes.

“I am.” Jay replied bravely.

Sunghoon didn’t know what to say to that so he just looked away and tried to focus on the rippling water instead. Then he felt Jay’s hand gently tilt his chin upward. His warm fingers rested at the corner of his jaw and urging him to look back.

“W-what are you doing?” Sunghoon whispered, his voice nearly lost beneath the sound of the falls. He didn’t pull away.

Jay didn’t answer. His fingers traced lightly along Sunghoon’s cheek, brushing over the familiar moles there, then drifting down past his lips without quite touching. One hand slid to his neck, felt the swallow at his throat. It skipped his necklace this time and continued down to rest briefly at his chest.

Sunghoon gasped.

Jay withdrew immediately, fingers returning only to tuck wet strands of hair behind Sunghoon’s ear before pulling away.

Neither of them spoke after that.

Sunghoon could feel his face burning and hopes the steam rising from the spring would hide it. He kept his eyes close again as he listened to the water, to his loud heartbeat, to the fragile quiet between them.

 

They walk back in silence after a while. Sunghoon is careful this time, stepping around the stone he almost fell on earlier. The path is darker now and the air colder. He ends up hugging himself again and he isn’t sure if it’s because of the night breeze or the thin inner robe clinging to his skin.

He flinches when a soft fabric is suddenly placed over his head from behind. He doesn’t look back and simply pulls it down, using it to cover his hair and shoulders and lets it shield him from the cold.

When they reach the cottage, Sunghoon excuses himself to wash up.

 

Jay is already fully dressed by the time he comes out. He’s sitting on the floor with legs folded as small stones and pebbles spread in front of him.
“Look.” Jay says.

He lifts something up. It was a small and pale shell, catching the light so sharply that Sunghoon has to blink. For a moment, he’s reminded of Prince Ni-ki, of how the boy would pick up leaves or stones and rush to show him like they were treasures. Sunghoon wonders when Jay even had the time to collect these.

He kneels beside him. The shell fits perfectly in Jay’s palm. It was smooth and shining and glitters even with the smallest movement.

Jay reaches for Sunghoon’s hand and places the shell on his open palm, folding his fingers closed around it. “We treasure shells because they fit the hand perfectly.” He says quietly. “Like a secret.” Then he kisses Sunghoon’s knuckles lightly, barely there. “This is my secret. Keep this for me, okay?”

Sunghoon looks up at him with wide eyes. His heart is pounding so loudly he’s sure Jay can hear it. He nods anyway.

Jay stands and gathers the remaining pebbles and slips them into his pocket. He offers a hand and pulls Sunghoon up.

“I’ll prepare the carriage.” He says and squeezes Sunghoon’s hand once before letting go. “Just come outside when you’re ready.”

Sunghoon watches him leave. Jay makes it hard to breathe sometimes… his touch, his smile, the way he looks at him. It’s all overwhelming but not unwelcome.

 

They set out again once the horse had rested. The land slowly changes as they ride. Farms stretch across the plains, the fields heavy with grain, oil presses standing near the roads. The East lives off abundance where everything feels bigger and richer. They take turns riding and resting in the carriage.

By the time the sun dips low, they finally reach the eastern depot. It looks nothing like the others. The Eastern’s depot has high walls, thick gates and armed guards stationed at every entrance. Sunghoon guesses it’s because of the sheer amount of supply they store here, more than the South or Central combined.

The guards stop them immediately. Sunghoon hands over his scroll, his name and kingdom written in official ink.

“You’re the one sent by the southern lords.” One guard says, still inspecting it. “What took you so long?”

Sunghoon blinks.

There was no notice that he would arrive today. “Yes.” He answers anyway in a steady voice. Hesitation would only make them suspicious. Maybe the South sent word while he was still on the road..? He explains briefly that the journey took longer than expected, that there were detours to the Central. Something he will need to report once he returns.

The guard nods and steps aside to let them in.

 

Jay speaks quietly once they’ve settled the carriage on the front grounds. “You’ll be okay.”

It isn’t a question.

“I will.” Sunghoon says.

He follows the guards toward the entrance. After a few steps, he looks back and Jay is still there watching him. Something warm settles in Sunghoon’s chest as he breathes in.

Inside, the depot opens up before him. It was so massive. Larger than any depot he’s ever seen. Rows upon rows of towering containers that he couldn’t count just by looking stacked high, marked and sealed. The air here smells of oil and metal and everything feels heavy. Sunghoon tightens his grip on the documents.

This is where it begins.

 

Sunghoon has always been trained for this. From a young age, he was taught how to speak with clarity, how to negotiate without raising his voice, how to make decisions while weighing every consequence. He knows how to sound confident without sounding arrogant, how to adjust his tone in the middle of questioning, how to remain calm even when eyes are watching for weakness.

So when he stands before the eastern higher-ups inside the depot office, he does not falter. He begins by explaining the system clearlyㅡ the oil delivered to the southern palace is counted per barrel. Weekly deliveries and that fifty barrels expected every cycle. He presents the complaint letter sent by the South, then acknowledges the response from the East on how they contested the claim and insisted the numbers were correct.

Very humbly and carefully, he explains why he went to the Central depot.

He lays the documents out in order. He clarifies that the Central does not count by barrel, but by cargo container and records only the total volume of oil transported rather than by barrels. That difference alone could create space for error.

Then he presents the proof through ledgers, tallies and weekly records from the river depot. The point where the cargo ships are received before being transferred to the tribute depot. Every document points to the same conclusion that only forty-five barrels have been reaching the South each week. Five barrels unaccounted for every time for the past two years.

He explains that after reviewing the evidence, the South has already withdrawn their complaint after learning the computation difference. They have apologized and agreed to re-examine the process and have formally requested that the Central depot begin counting barrels directly rather than relying on cargo records alone.

As he expects, the Eastern officials do not look pleased. Their expressions remain stiff and clearly unhappy with the implication beneath Sunghoon’s words. Still, he keeps his posture respectful and his explanations precise. He does not accuse. He does not provoke. He reminds himself that he is here as a representative of the Southern palace and he acts like one.

The questioning takes longer than he expects. But in the end, the papers are signed.

When Sunghoon steps out of the office, escorted by guards, he exhales the tension finally loosening from his chest. The approved document in his hand of the East’s approval allowing the Central to inspect their containers is everything he needed. Reluctant as they were, the case can now move forward.

 

Outside, Jay is already waiting by the carriage. Just like before, he doesn’t stay where he is. He walks straight toward Sunghoon and stops in front of him. “You did well.”

Again, it isn’t a question.

Sunghoon smiles, lifting the signed paper. “I did it.” He says. “They signed for the investigation.”

Jay’s eyes follow the document, then return to Sunghoon’s face. There’s something there….relief, pride… fear? Maybe the same exhaustion Sunghoon feels so he brushed it off. He raises a hand and cups the side of Sunghoon’s face.

Sunghoon doesn’t pull away. If anything, he leans into the touch.

“You were absolutely brilliant today,” Jay says sincerely. “Well done.”

Sunghoon feels his face warm immediately. Jay said it so plainly and so honestly that it reaches deep in his chest. Sunghoon lowers his gaze, still smiling, heart full in a way he isn’t used to but doesn’t want to let go of.

“I’ll be heading back to the Central to submit the approved investigation request.” Sunghoon says.
He doesn’t ask if Jay will come with him because he already knows the answer. “Let’s go.” He adds instead, fingers closing around Jay’s wrist as he leads the way this time.

 

They take the same road back toward the Central. Before leaving the Eastern outskirts, Sunghoon suggests they stop by the market to buy food and water they can bring along for their travel. The carriage rolls past rows of wheat bread stalls. They smell good but Sunghoon doesn’t stop. He prefers rice cakes and those are always sold farther in.

They stop at the first rice cake stall. Sunghoon is still on the horse while Jay stays inside the carriage until Sunghoon feels movement behind him. He barely has time to turn when something soft is pressed to his lips.

“What—”

Jay has already placed a small piece of puff bread into his mouth.

It’s sweet and melts almost instantly like it dissolves on his tongue. Sunghoon chews first before speaking, out of habit, manners drilled into him since childhood. He bows an apology to the old woman at the stall who is patiently waiting for him to choose, then looks at Jay who is now sitting on the horse behind him and leaning close.

“Is it good?” Jay asked expectantly.

“Where did you even get that?” Sunghoon asks, confused. They never stopped at the bread stalls which means Jay must have… he shakes his head, already knowing the answer.

Jay shrugs. “They won’t notice it.”

Sunghoon sighs, but lets it go.

They both get down from the horse and choose enough rice cakes to last them the trip. The old woman even gives them a small box of red bean waffles, saying she always gives something extra to travelers passing through. She points them toward a nearby stall selling drinking water, and Sunghoon thanks her before they leave.

With everything secured, they start back toward the Central.

 

They take the same route, but this time they don’t stop at an inn. They pass through it at night instead, and the horse holds up better with fewer interruptions. By the time morning comes, the sun is already low again when they reach the Central area.

Sunghoon doesn’t waste time. He submits the signed documents and explains the situation clearly. He gives firm instructions regarding the investigation into the supplies sent from the East to the South. The Central requests representatives from both regions. Sunghoon agrees immediately that he will relay it to the Southern palace, while the Central will send word to the East to request their own representative.

He makes sure every detail is settled before stepping out of the Central tribute depot where Jay is waiting outside.

 

By midnight, they stop at another clearing near a river. They feed the horse hay and water, then set a mattress on the ground beside the stream. The moon is bright as it has been every night, but the trees here are very tall and dense. Their branches blocking most of the light so it’s darker.

Sunghoon watches as Jay sets up a small bonfire nearby instead, the flames crackling softly.

After washing up by the river, they sit in front of the fire for warmth. Sunghoon stares blankly at the water as it runs past them. His eyes follow the current, but his mind drifts backward, replaying everything that has happened over the past days… the missing barrels at the depot, the long travels to the Central and the East, the negotiations with the higher-ups. Then, meeting Jay for the first time at the palace. Running after him during the town parade when Jay stole the bandana Prince Niki had given him, only for Heeseung to buy him a new one later. The sneers from the head guards and stewards. The whispers of the maids when they thought he had run away from his responsibility of escorting Prince Niki. To meeting Jay again and letting him join the journey.

Jay sits beside him and their shoulders brush with the closeness.

After a while, Jay speaks. “I hope those are calm, peaceful thoughts in your head right now.” He says quietly. “You faced what you had to, head-on. And you were amazing.”

The words took root inside him, blooming into a warmth he doesn’t know how to name. But his shoulders relax without him realizing it. He turns, resting the side of his face against his crossed arms atop his knee just to look at Jay.

In a few hours, Sunghoon will be back at the palace… his duty, his life, his home. And Jay won’t be there. It shouldn’t bother him. He has always been fine on his own. He has always known where he belongs. Just the thought of it makes him feel unsteady, like he’s standing at the edge of something he doesn’t know how to hold onto.

“You’ll be back at the palace when the sun sets.” Jay says. He sighs and leans back, hands braced behind him. “What a bummer.” He turns his head to Sunghoon. “I really didn’t want this to end. You see, I’d have to climb palace walls just to see your face again.”

Sunghoon ignores the swarm of butterflies in his stomach at the thought of Jay wanting to see him. “I told you not to do that.” He says instead. “It’s dangerous. You could get caught.”

“Yeah?” Jay looks at him with a smug smirk. “Worth it.”

“Dㅡdon’t say things like that.”

Jay hums, eyes lifting to the sky. “Guess I’ll just have to keep coming back to the palace until I steal you.”

Sunghoon feels his face heat up. From the side, the moonlight catches in Jay’s eyes, making his profile look unreal. Too handsome…too much.

“Do you know what else I’d want to steal?”

Sunghoon turned his head just enough to meet Jay’s eyes. He opened his mouth to ask, “Whaㅡ”

Jay leaned in and kissed him. It was quick, a soft press of warm lips that vanished almost instantly. Jay pulled back casually, tilting his face toward the stars as though he hadn’t just turned Sunghoon’s entire world upside down in one heartbeat.

Sunghoon went still yet his heart kicked violently against his ribs, raising a hand to his lips. “That… that was my first kiss.” The realization burned through him. His pulse thundered in his ears, louder than the night around them.

“Yeah?” Jay murmured, voice low and far too gentle for how fast Sunghoon’s world was spinning. He hadn’t shifted far as their shoulders were still touching, the heat of him seeping through fabric and skin.

“Then…” Jay turned back, pulled Sunghoon’s wrist and kissed him again a second longer this time. “That’s your second kiss.”

Before the shock could settle into something manageable, Jay leaned in again and whispered against his lips and says. “And this is your third kiss.”

His lips settled properly over Sunghoon’s as his eyes drifted shut on instinct. Jay’s nose brushed his, their foreheads pressed lightly together.

Sunghoon felt weightless and heavy at the same time. His heart was trying to escape his body as his cheeks burned. When Sunghoon didn’t pull away, Jay exhaled roughly and the kiss turned real. Their mouths pressed harder this time.

Sunghoon felt the tentative slide of Jay’s tongue and he parted his lips on instinct. The first real touch of tongue against tongue sent sparks racing down his spine. His one hand now fisted the front of Jay’s robe and the other found Jay’s shoulder for balance as he tilted closer.

Their teeth bumped clumsily and Jay’s quiet chuckle vibrated against Sunghoon’s mouth before he angled his head and kissed deeper. When Jay sucked lightly on his tongue, a broken whimper escaped Sunghoon. Heat flooded his face but it only fed the fire pooling low in his stomach.

Jay’s hand slid to the back of Sunghoon’s neck, fingers pushing into his hair, holding him steady so he could take the kiss exactly where he wanted it. Sunghoon allows him and melted against him with every sweep of tongue.

When they finally parted, it was only because they were both gasping. Sunghoon’s chest rose and fell rapidly and so did Jay’s.

Jay’s eyes were dark, pupils blown wide and lips red and wet in the faint moonlight.

Sunghoon sees the way Jay’s gaze dropped to his necklace. The moonstone pendant resting warm now from body heat against Sunghoon’s flushed skin.

Jay’s fingers lifted it slowly as he hooked one finger under the chain and drew it taut for a second, letting the pendant rise and settle again.

Sunghoon’s breath caught at the gentle tug. The cool metal warmed instantly where Jay touched it. Jay didn’t speak. Instead, he leaned in and pressed his lips to the pendant.

The kiss was soft but Sunghoon felt the warmth of Jay’s mouth through the stone, felt the faint vibration of Jay’s quiet exhale against his throat. His entire body tensed and then melted in the same heartbeat.

Jay lingered there for a long moment, lips brushing the stone once more, then trailing up to kiss the skin at the sensitive dip at the base of Sunghoon’s throat.

“Jay…..” Sunghoon allows him and tipped his head back farther to give him more access.

Then Jay’s fingers moved to the loose collar of Sunghoon’s thin robe now barely tied. He hooked a finger under the neckline on Sunghoon’s right side and tugged it aside. The robe slipped off one shoulder, the cool night air kissing his now bare skin. The exposed curve of Sunghoon’s pale shoulder gleamed faintly under moonlight.

“JㅡJay.” Sunghoon felt unbearably naked even though it was only one shoulder.

Then Jay dipped his head again this time to his bared shoulder. His lips found the round of bone and he licks there making Sunghoon’s entire body jolt. The spot was so sensitive he hadn’t even known it could feel like that. Jay kissed there again, slower, open-mouthed, letting his tongue trace a lazy circle.

Sunghoon’s head tipped farther back as a shaky whine escaped him. Jay hummed against the skin sending vibrations that travels straight down Sunghoon’s spine. Then he sucked there lightly, just enough to leave a faint mark that Sunghoon knew he’d feel tomorrow.

Their movements caused the robe to slip a fraction more, baring the top of his collarbone again. Jay chased it immediately, lips dragging lower, kissing along the delicate line where shoulder met neck, then back up to brush the pendant once more.

Sunghoon’s fingers dug deeper into Jay’s front robe. His other hand found the back of Jay’s neck, threading into short hair, holding him there without really meaning to pull. Every press of Jay’s mouth felt like it was unraveling another thread inside him. Something tight and carefully guarded that he hadn’t even realized was there until now.

Jay pulled back just enough to look at the small, reddening mark on Sunghoon’s shoulder, then at the pendant still resting against his throat. His thumb brushed over the moonstone once then he leaned in and kissed it again, softer this time, like a promise.