Forbidden: Part 7
Title: Forbidden
Pairing: YunJae
Rating: PG-13
Length: Part 7/? (It's a LONG short story)
Summary: Jae is concerned about the attention his sister is receiving from a dangerous man but he isn't in any position to take care of it himself so he turns to the king. However, the King, Jung Yunho, presents unforeseen complications...
There was activity throughout the village, an undercurrent of excitement and anticipation thrumming through it. The emissary was scheduled to arrive today.
There had been emissaries and other important visitors before but Jae had never paid attention. He’d never had any reason to, but this time…
A slight flush colored his cheeks as he made his way to the formal dining hall, JiHye and TaeHun at his side.
It had been two weeks since that time in the cabin. Well, the second time. He still couldn’t forget the incident. A lot had changed since that day. He and Yunho had become…lovers.
Lovers.
His cheeks darkened even more as the word echoed in his head. Unlike the first time, that being the incident, Yunho didn’t avoid him afterward. When the rain had stopped and they’d made their way home, they’d parted ways without a word. His mind had been muddled with a million thoughts, his emotions in disarray, not to mention the physical discomfort he’d felt from…what had happened, and then riding a horse afterward. But despite all that had been going on inside of him, he couldn’t help wondering if things would’ve turned out the same. If Yunho would’ve stayed away from him again, filled with guilt and who knows what other emotions and thoughts.
He’d gotten his answer that very night.
He’d been in bed, tossing and turning and unable to sleep, when he’d heard a door sliding open. He leaned back on his elbows and looked towards his door expectantly but the door was closed. Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed movement and when he looked, he was shocked to see Yunho climbing through the wall that separated their room. Apparently there was a recessed panel that, when pushed, slid open to reveal a partitioned doorway. He’d been so shocked, he couldn’t formulate a cohesive thought, much less for talking. The next thing he knew, Yunho was next to him, taking him in his arms and the minute his mouth touched his, he was lost.
They’d made love every night since. Yunho was busy during the day, meeting with the Ministers and overseeing preparations for the emissary and his entourage, so they rarely met during the day. If he had a free afternoon, they’d resume their usual pastime in his room or go riding, which usually took them to the cabin and…well, no matter how tired Yunho might be, he always seemed invigorated when he was with Jae. But at night, they were always together. If his meetings finished early, Jae would wait for him in his room and they would play chess or Yunho would have Jae read to him. Jae didn’t find anything special about his voice but Yunho said it soothed him and he believed him. He learned so much about the man from those stories, about how honorable and selfless he was. Then, when everything around them was still, they’d make love and fall asleep in each other’s arms.
One night they’d been in bed when one of Yunho’s personal guards had come in to wake him when an urgent situation had arisen. Jae had been mortified and scooted as far under the covers as he could get after taking a look at the man’s surprised face. Yunho had told the guard to give him a minute and dismissed him. As soon as he’d left, Yunho peeled back the covers. Jae was surprised to see Yunho looking so calm when they’d just been found out. His face must have relayed that because Yunho asked,
“Why are you hiding? There’s nothing to be embarrassed about.”
Jae gasped. Nothing to be embarrassed about? “We’ve been seen together. In bed. Pretty soon, everyone’s going to know. He must have been disgusted by what he saw. Oh no, the Ministers. They’re going to cause even more trouble for you when they find out.”
Yunho threw his head back and laughed. Jae stared at him silently, blinking in confusion.
Yunho sobered, a tender smile settling on his lips. “You’re so innocent...and sweet for worrying about me. And clearly unobservant.”
Jae frowned. “What do you mean?”
“Well, firstly, haven’t you ever noticed that MinWoo and JunYoung are always together?”
Jae rolled his eyes. “Well, of course they are. They’re your personal guard. They’re always together, guarding you.”
Yunho pinched the tip of his nose. “No, silly. Even when they’re off duty, they’re always together. They even live together.”
Jae’s frown deepened. “That’s not uncommon. Don’t all the soldiers live in the same quarters?”
Yunho nodded. “The soldiers do, but MinWoo and YunYoung don’t. They aren’t soldiers, they’re my personal guard...by their choosing. They’re actually the sons of noblemen, very important ones at that. We trained together in Ruan. Instead of going back to their kingdoms, they chose to come with me. Mostly because they felt that they owed me. I saved their lives you see. One day, while we were still in Ruan, we went on a raid, much like the one you read about. However, this village was more than prepared to fend us off. We lost some great men that day. JunYoung was almost a casualty as well. He’d been injured and MinWoo wouldn’t leave his side yet he couldn’t defend himself and protect JunYoung too. I was leading the squadron they were in, despite their being older than me. The Chief had faith in my abilities. They’d gotten themselves in a tight spot and it would’ve been much easier to leave them but I couldn’t leave them behind. They were my men, my responsibility. They were also my friends. By some miracle, I managed to get us all out alive.”
He pointed at a scar on his left arm just below his shoulder. “A memento.”
Jae’s eyes were wide and full of interest at the story. He’d never really noticed the scar on Yunho’s arm. There was never really time to notice anything once Yunho started touching him.
Yunho absently threaded a hand through Jae’s silky hair. “I’ll let you read about it some time. I know how much you love adventure stories.”
Jae smiled. Suddenly remembering something Yunho had said, he asked, “You said that they stayed with you mostly because they felt that they owed you. What’s the other reason?”
Yunho smiled and lifted hand and gently cupped Jae’s cheek. “Because it was the only way they could stay together.”
Jae gasped, his eyes widening in surprise.
“They were in love. That’s why MinWoo couldn’t leave JunYoung, even though it meant that he would probably die too. They wanted to repay me, that much is true, but serving me also gave them cover. As my guards, they’d be forced to stay in close quarters, to me and to each other. It was also a noble enough position that their fathers didn’t object too much. They’re free to leave whenever they so choose but they won’t. They can’t. I don’t think they can live without each other. I’ve never seen something so beautiful. In my relationship with the Chief, there’d been affection and caring, lust and maybe brotherly love, but that was it.”
Relationship, Jae thought, unable to ignore the word. That answered one of his unspoken questions.
“I’d never experienced anything remotely close to what they have until…” Yunho paused, his cheeks flaming with color and for once, he was the one to look away.
Jae stilled, bracing himself for what Yunho was going to say yet wanting him to continue.
Shaking it off, Yunho dropped his hand and slid out of bed to put on his clothes. “Anyway, you don’t have to worry about them. They’ll take my secrets to the grave. Besides, do you really think I would surround myself with people I didn’t literally trust with my life? DongWoon and KiBum also trained with us and chose to follow me here. They’re of common lineage but the five of us were the best of friends so when my father died and I was called home, it seemed natural for them to join the three of us. I trust them with my life as they would, and have trusted, me with theirs.”
It was still new to him, Jae thought as he stepped into the hall. This openness, the nature of their relationship. He was still confused and conflicted, still battling with the right and wrong of it. Never in his wildest dreams had he envisioned himself being intimate with a man. It was not only wrong, immoral and possibly illegal, it was also unnatural. Yet, he’d never pictured himself with a woman either. He knew what it was like to be with a man, now, but he still had no idea what being with a woman entailed. If he thought being with a man was wrong yet he found pleasure in it, at least with the king anyway, then would he find similar pleasure in being with a woman? He would’ve loved to talk to someone, to ask all the questions flying through his head, but he couldn’t without exposing Yunho and he’d never do that. Yunho was the only one he could ask but…he couldn’t. Yunho’s feelings for him were strong. He knew it, saw it in his eyes, felt it in his embrace, his kisses. And Yunho had never been with a woman himself either. He knew that he and the Queen had consummated their union as had been expected. They’d had no choice with the Queen’s father, the king, and Yunho’s father’s representative right outside the bedroom door waiting for the ‘evidence’. But Yunho had said that he’d never touched her again so Jae didn’t think that one forced experience counted. He wondered if he could do it, thought through all the faces of the women he saw on a daily basis, and felt…nothing.
“What’s wrong?” JiHye asked, making him jump.
He sighed. “Nothing.”
Her brow furrowed. “Doesn’t look like nothing.”
“JiHye-ah…” TaeHun spoke from her other side, his eyes patient and adoring when they rested on her face. “Leave your brother alone.”
“I only ask because I love him,” she argued, pouting.
Jaejoong took a deep breath and smiled. “I appreciate your concern, sister. You look lovely today.”
JiHye bowed her head accordingly, her cheeks pinkening attractively. “You look very pretty yourself,” she teased.
Jae rolled his eyes and glanced down at his formal wear. Yunho had had it specially made for him. It was a deep black with a gold brocade. It reminded him of the cover of the book Yunho had given him on his birthday.
His birthday…
He blushed as he remembered what else Yunho had given him on his birthday.
Yunho had also had a beautiful hanbok made for JiHye, a deep plum with the same gold brocade. Their clothes were complementary but distinctive enough to the people that wore them. Jae tried to ignore the looks they garnered as they made their way down the line of people that had gathered but it was hard. He knew that they looked almost as regal as the King and Queen themselves. He made a mental note to have a word with Yunho about that.
As they passed the Minister of War, he couldn’t ignore the burst of disgust that soured his stomach when he saw the way the man’s eyes roved over his sister. He bit down on his tongue to keep himself quiet. When those eyes flicked over him in much the same way, he felt his skin crawl. However, he was so proud of JiHye. She walked past the man, head held high as if she truly were royalty, despite the disgust he was sure she was probably feeling as well. She’d never talked in detail with him about what had happened but given how he’d felt after the incident with Yunho, he was sure he had an idea, except Yunho was so much more decent and humane than the Minister. JiHye didn’t have that comfort.
They found their positions, TaeHun posting himself behind JiHye, and stood in the receiving line, awaiting the King and Queen’s’s entrance, followed by the visiting emissary and his entourage. It was a slow procession, one that was extremely boring and tedious and would have been more so if not for the accompanying music.
Jae’s heart stuttered when he caught sight of Yunho making his way down the aisle. He was resplentdant in rich wine red robes with gold detailing. His formal headdress made him look even more kingly than usual. His face was set in serious lines. Sometimes when he looked at Yunho when he was in an official capacity, that is when he was in the role of king, it was hard to believe that he was the same person who shared his bed. Gone was the man who clung to him desperately in the dark of night, drugging him with kisses and driving them both insane with pleasure. In his place stood a king, tall and proud, who walked amongst his people like the god he represented. His eyes reflected his adoration for them but his face was all business, not giving away his thoughts or feelings. He looked like a man that one ought to think twice before trifling with. But as he passed Jae, his eyes met Jae’s and they seemed to smile, even though his facial expression didn’t change at all.
As the day wore on, the festivities began. After the nooning meal, which lasted a lengthy four hours, the king, the Ministers and the emissary, Lord Yoo, retired to the king’s study. The emissary’s entourage were led to the banquet hall to partake of the activities that had been prepared in their honor. Jae and JiHye retired to their rooms to rest before the evening’s events. Jae shed his clothes, changing into something more comfortable that he could sleep in and not worry about rumpling. It felt like his head had only just hit the pillow when JiHye was waking him up to go to dinner. As he put back on the heavy robes and fixed his hair before donning his cap, he grumbled to himself. He really needed to start catching up on sleep. Or maybe nap more. Perhaps he could ask Yunho…
“Jae!” JiHye called impatiently from outside his door.
“I’m coming!”
Still grumbling, he swung open the door and glowered at her before turning to TaeHun and nodding.
“Gosh, you’re in a pissy mood,” JiHye commented as they made their way through the winding corridors then outside.
“I’m just tired,” he explained, stifling a yawn.
“Aren’t you sleeping well?” she inquired, genuinely concerned.
He couldn’t stop the color from flooding his cheeks. “Uh…um, just having a little problem settling down lately. It should pass soon.”
She gave him a skeptical look but said nothing.
Dinner was a lot shorter than lunch, for which Jae was extremely grateful. Though the food was good, all of the pleasantries and enforced conversation were sapping what little strength he had left. The potency of the wine didn’t help either. Thankfully, no one paid any attention to him or tried to engage him in conversation. Occasionally he caught Yunho looking at him from the head of the table and color would instantly bloom in his cheeks. He hated that that was his automatic reaction to Yunho’s looks and caresses, hated that it was so visible. Damn his too-fair skin!
“My Queen,” the emissary spoke loudly all of a sudden. “Your father sends his regards.”
The Queen smiled and nodded duly. “I hope you’ll give him mine in return.”
The emissary took a sip of wine and looked at her carefully of the rim of his goblet, gauging the reaction of the question he was about to ask. “He inquires as to when he will have a child to call grandson.”
The Queen’s cheeks filled with angry color, her grip on her goblet tightening.
There was a lot of uncomfortable coughing and shifting, those seated at the table looked anywhere but at the people in question.
Jae’s eyes widened in disbelief, then narrowed as he fought an over-whelming urge to plant his fist in the man’s face. How dare he embarrass the Queen that way?
“I don’t think that topic is fit for the dinner table, my lord,” Yunho spoke up. He was smiling but his tone was hard as steel and brook no argument.
Lord Yoo bowed his head abashedly, light color staining his cheeks. “My apologies, sire. I’ve heard that you are quite capable with a geomungo. I hope that I shall have the honor of watching you perform tonight.”
Yunho nodded. “As you wish.”
Jae was still burning with silent fury but he was happy that Yunho hadn’t let the man’s rudeness slide. He felt sorry for the Queen, though. Her eyes were lowered, head still bowed. He could only imagine how humiliated she was.
Dinner was soon called to a close and the ladies and gentlemen went off to clean up before assembling in the courtyard for the night’s entertainments. Jae was stumbling down the hall after leaving the restroom, eyes half-closed when he realized that he’d taken a wrong turn somewhere. He turned and was about to make his way back when he heard arguing in a nearby room, the voices were hushed but the tones were harsh enough to make them audible.
“You’ve been here three years already. You’re both young and healthy, I fail to see the problem.”
He immediately recognized Lord Yoo’s haughtiness. Just hearing the man’s voice again made him want to pummel him.
“Babies don’t just pop out of the air, my lord.”
Jae’s eyes widened. It was the Queen.
“No, they don’t, but you’ve had more than enough time since you’ve been here. You could’ve had as many children by now.”
The Queen gasped. “Three children in three years? Do you take me for a brood mare, my lord?”
Jae could almost picture the man shrugging as he said, “You have your duty, to your husband and to the throne, both his and your father’s. It’s a woman’s job to do as her husband demands whenever he demands it. Have you been difficult? Is that it? Is he forced to turn to concubines to have his needs met?”
Jae heard the slap of an open palm against soft flesh and brought a hand to his mouth to cover his gasp.
“My husband is not so low or base as to seek the company of whores. He is a man of integrity and honor. He would never risk bringing a bastard into this world knowing the stigma that would follow the child his entire life.”
“Better a bastard than none at all. At least then you can claim it and raise it as your own. Your father is most concerned about this matter. Until a child is born, there will be uncertainty about the strength of the alliance between the kingdoms. You are the only thread binding us together and, unfortunately your highness, a woman will never be enough to ensure that that bond stays intact.”
Jae heard the Queen’s heavy breathing and could imagine how hard she fought for self-control at this new humiliation. He was fighting the urge to barge in there and defend her when she spoke.
“You can tell my father that he will have his precious grandchild within the year.” Her tone was low, voice cold and hard.
“See that it’s done,” Lord Yoo replied.
Hearing heavy footsteps making their way toward the door, Jae ran as soundlessly as he could down the hall and out the front door into the dark night. He needed some time to process what he’d just heard so instead of heading straight for the courtyard, he walked aimlessly through the gardens to the koi pond. Staring down at the fish, he pondered the complexities of the King and Queen’s relationship. He wondered, yet again, why Yunho had never bedded her again. Their first time was understandably awkward given that they’d been monitored but why hadn’t he tried to be intimate with her once that task was out of the way? Perhaps if he had tried, he might have liked it and fallen in love with her or at least come to care for her in some way. He’d never really thought about it before but he imagined that the Queen was possibly more lonely than the King had been. She was like he had been when he’d been sent away for training: a stranger in a foreign land, fulfilling her responsibilities but having no friends or family to turn to for support or comfort.
Was it too late for them?, he wondered. Perhaps if Yunho really gave it a try, they might be successful. He wasn’t sure how many times it took to make a baby but did it really matter? It was necessary. Producing an heir was just as much Yunho’s responsibility as it was the Queen’s and though he might be a good king, an honorable one, he was shirking that particular duty. They were both young but if they weren’t even trying now, wouldn’t it take even longer if they waited until they were older? And they lived in uncertain times. Yunho had acknowledged that he had enemies within the kingdom’s walls. He never knew when they would strike so he couldn’t take time for granted. He needed to do what needed to be done as soon as possible.
But Jae knew he wouldn’t, especially now that he was in the picture. Yunho clearly had no interest in the Queen and though he wasn’t sure what was going on between them, he knew that Yunho would never touch her so long as Jae was in the picture. He wasn’t sure if Yunho loved him but he knew that he was committed to whatever emotion it was that he felt. He didn’t want to be an obstacle between them, though. He didn’t want to be the reason for the Queen’s humiliation or to cause Yunho further stress if the Queen’s father continued to be displeased.
A dull ache took up residence behind his left eye and he wished he could just go to his room and hide from the world and all the confusing complexities it held.
The faint sound of music wafted over on the night air and with a sigh, he made his way back to the courtyard.
The Queen, Lord Yoo, the Ministers, their families and other invited guests were seated at a long row of tables that had been set up on an elevated stage at the top of the palace steps looking down onto the courtyard. Jae’s eyes widened slightly as he realized that the king was sitting with the performers in the courtyard and not at his spot beside the Queen. He was tweaking the instrument as professionally as the other performers were. Unconsciously, he stepped out of the shadows and into the light, pushing his way to the front of the group of people that had gathered at the foot of the steps.
The first strum of the strings struck a cord deep inside of him. The melody that came after was sad, haunting. When Yunho began singing, Jae couldn’t bare to look at him. There was so much pain and sadness in his voice.
“The way he looks at you…” JiHye began, suddenly appearing behind him. “I’ve never seen such intense emotions in someone’s eyes when they look at another.”
Jae’s head snapped around pinning her with a hard gaze. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
JiHye raised an eyebrow. “Jae… I’m not blind, nor am I stupid. The fact that he can hardly ever keep his eyes off you makes it that much more obvious.”
At her words, Jae turned to look at Yunho and sure enough, as the music swelled around them, his eyes were on Jae. They were filled with emotion but Jae couldn’t tell what exactly.
With Yunho’s eyes on him and his eyes on Yunho, neither of them saw or felt another pair of eyes watching them.
Jae was finally starting to doze off when he heard his door slide open then close. He stayed still, not giving any indication that he’d heard it. When the bed dipped beside him, he waited: for a touch, a gentle caress, a soft word.
Instead, his covers were rudely pulled back. He sat up immediately and gasped in surprise when he found himself face to face with the Queen.
“My lady, your highness.” He coughed to clear his throat. “Have you come to the wrong room?”
It was dark so he couldn’t see her very clearly but he thought he saw her jaw tighten.
“No,” she said, her voice cold. “I’m exactly where I meant to be.”
Jae swallowed thickly, not knowing what to say.
“I wondered how best to go about this. Do I play the Queen card, just order you out of here? Do I play nice, butter you up? I don’t think you would fall for the latter and I haven’t the strength for the former so I’m just going to be honest. I need your help. I’m here to beg for your help.”
Jae gasped. “I don’t…”
“Please, leave this room. Just for an hour, no more, no less. That’s all I need.”
Jae’s heart beat erratically in his chest. Had they been found out? “I’m sorry, I don’t…”
“He’ll come to you,” she said, her voice breaking. “He’ll need you after such a long, tiring day. It has to be tonight.”
“Your majesty, I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
She laughed, the sound bordering on hysteria. “Do you take me for a fool? I’m not stupid, nor am I blind,” she mocked, repeating JiHye’s earlier words. “I see the way he looks at you. It’s impossible not to. While I’m watching him, looking for some sign, some opening to bring us closer, he’s watching you, always watching.”
“Your majesty…”
“Don’t!” she said sharply, raising a hand to stop him. “No lies. I’ve already accepted the fact that he’ll only be a husband to me in name only. We used to be friends, a long time ago, but now we’re practically strangers…” Her words ended on a sorrowful note. “Still, it doesn’t change the fact that we have a duty to perform, responsibilities to uphold. He’s an honorable man but he needs a little push and I can’t give it to him. It has to come from you.”
Jae swallowed again. “He won’t listen to me.”
The Queen took his hand, gripped it hard. “Yes, he will. You don’t need to say anything to him. Just the fact that you left this room, gave us this time together, will be your answer. He’ll have no choice but to honor the sacrifice you’ve made. He won’t do it for me but he’ll do it for you if you give him permission.”
She laughed again, bitterly. “How far I’ve fallen. Me, the Queen, begging a child to allow me access to my own husband so that we may ensure the future, all of our futures. It’s true what they say… Women bear the burdens of the world.”
Jae’s heart clenched painfully in his chest. “I’m sorry…”
The Queen shook her head. “I don’t want your apologies. Save your words. Just please, go.”
Jae slid out from under the covers and rolled to the other side of the bed. Not bothering to redress completely, he grabbed for a robe and pulled on the first thing his hand came in contact with. He slid his foot into his shoes and quietly exited the room.
As he walked down the hall, he prayed not to run into anyone, especially not Yunho or his guards. He didn’t want anyone asking him questions. He made it outside safely. It was clear but for a few late stragglers. Walking quickly, he made his way across the courtyard to his favorite tree by the small lake. He lay down on the grass, damp with dew, and stared up at the stars in the sky. He didn’t know how his life had gotten to that point, where he’d gone wrong. Was it too late to turn back?
Sighing, he focused on the stars, trying to keep his mind off of what was taking place back in his room.
Yunho was exhausted. It took all of his strength to keep walking until he reached his chamber. He said goodbye to his guards at the door, dismissing them for the night so they could get some much needed rest themselves.
He walked to his bed and started to disrobe and his eyes fell on the wall knowing what lay beyond.
Jae…
He’d missed him today. He’d wanted very much to tell him how beautiful he’d looked in his formal garb. It should be handsome but with Jae, that word just didn’t fit. Both he and JiHye were visions. He couldn’t help but notice other people’s admiring glances towards the two. Including Minister Lee, unfortunately. Thankfully TaeHun had been there and Minister Lee’s own family so Yunho was almost certain he’d been on his best behaviour the entire day.
He was tired but he needed to see Jae, just to hear his voice, to smell him, feel him. He didn’t think he had the strength to make love but if he could just hold him while he slept, it would be enough.
He pulled off his clothes piece by piece until only his undergarments remained. Walking to the wall, he slid aside the panel and stepped through the door.
A single candle was lit, casting shadows around the room. As he glanced at the bed, he saw the faint glow of a pale shoulder as Jae’s back was turned towards him. Just the sight of that smooth, fair skin had him hardening.
I guess I’m not as tired as I thought, he thought with a smile.
He walked to the bed and slid beneath the cover. Curling into Jae, he slid his arm around his waist and pulled him closer. As his hand slid upward, he encountered a soft, round…
Breast.
Yunho immediately snatched his hand away and jumped a foot away, teetering on the edge of the bed.
The Queen raised up to a sitting position, her hair falling down her naked back, and looked at him over her shoulder. “Surprise,” she said with a feral smile.
Yunho caught himself before his mouth fell open. Anger descended on him swiftly, coloring his cheeks. “Where’s Jae?”
She turned towards him, uncaring of exposing her completely nude body. “He left,” she said simply, “so I thought I might see to your needs tonight.”
Yunho’s jaw clenched. “Get out,” he spat.
He was about to turn away and roll off the bed when she snatched his wrist, her grip tight.
“He gave us this time, at my request. Do not make him regret it.”
Yunho tugged on his wrist unsuccessfully. “Let go of me, madam. I don’t want to hurt you.”
The Queen threw her head back and laughed. “You don’t want to hurt me? I’m sorry to inform you that it’s a bit too late for that. What do you think you’ve been doing for the past three years? Was ignoring me supposed to be fun? I had no say in this, just like you, so don’t for a second think that you’re the only one suffering here. Now, not only do you ignore me but you flaunt your lover in my face.”
The color in Yunho’s cheeks deepened. “I don’t…”
“Tomato, tomahto. Flaunting, can’t keep your eyes off him, call it what you will. You have no idea how transparent you are, my lord. The love you have for that boy shines in your eyes like moonbeams. He might be the only one who doesn’t see it.”
Yunho swallowed. “Does anyone…”
She shook her head. “No one knows. You look at him like he’s your lifeline but you cover yourself well. And those who do suspect would never dear breathe a word for fear of it getting back to you.” She paused. “I’ve been accused of being frigid, been called difficult, infertile. I’ve had to swallow my pride, to come in here and beg, literally plead for my husband’s lover to give me this one night with him. And he did. Because he understands what’s at stake. It’s not about you and I, whether you love or want me. Love rarely ever plays a part in marriages like ours. But kings and queens before us have done what they needed to do to carry on the family line and ensure the safety of their kingdoms. We are no different. You’ve avoided it for three years, it can’t be put off any longer. You heard Lord Yoo: my father is very displeased. You know how difficult he can be. The last thing we need is for him to pay a personal visit.”
She paused again, taking a deep breath and ending it on a sigh. Her voice, when she spoke again, reflected defeat and acceptance.
“If none of that sways you then think of the boy. He left because he knew that it was the only way you would let me have you. I’m sure that, wherever he is, this can’t be easy for him. Don’t let his sacrifice be in vain.”
Yunho closed his eyes for a minute and took a deep breath. Just the thought of being with her turned his blood cold. He had nothing against her personally, she was doing her duty just like she’d said. But he didn’t know if he could lie with someone he had no feelings for. He’d done it to consummate their marriage but the truth was, it almost didn’t happen. Needless to say, it had been a humiliating experience for them both. But now…with Jae in his heart, mind and soul, he was supposed to give his body to her, make life with her? Not for the first time, he cursed the world he had been born into. Other than Jae, there was nothing he wouldn’t change if he could. His poor Jae… He wondered where he was.
“Please,” she said softly, beseeching.
He knew it couldn’t be easy on her either. She was right. He’d been a fool to think he could avoid it forever.
Taking a deep breath, he kicked off the covers. Grabbing the Queen’s wrist, he tugged until she fell back onto the bed. He flipped her onto her stomach and kicked her legs apart, spreading her thighs.
As he pushed his pants down to his knees, he leaned forward and whispered in her ear,
“I won’t be gentle.”
Pushing up to her knees, she glanced at him over her shoulder and said, “I didn’t expect you to be.”
A/N: If you haven't seen the movie, this is the song I was referencing: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lFWIgToLukY It's a large part of why I love Frozen Flower so much. I loved the movie but I really fell for the song, especially during the beautiful ending after all the tragedy. The video also gives you an idea of what the setting, costumes, etc would look like. I wish I could find a proper trans of the song but no luck so far. I read a brief explanation but I forgot where. Anyway, it's a touching song.
BTW, Jae is 18 now. He lost his virginity on his birthday, remember?
Part VIII
Pairing: YunJae
Rating: PG-13
Length: Part 7/? (It's a LONG short story)
Summary: Jae is concerned about the attention his sister is receiving from a dangerous man but he isn't in any position to take care of it himself so he turns to the king. However, the King, Jung Yunho, presents unforeseen complications...
There was activity throughout the village, an undercurrent of excitement and anticipation thrumming through it. The emissary was scheduled to arrive today.
There had been emissaries and other important visitors before but Jae had never paid attention. He’d never had any reason to, but this time…
A slight flush colored his cheeks as he made his way to the formal dining hall, JiHye and TaeHun at his side.
It had been two weeks since that time in the cabin. Well, the second time. He still couldn’t forget the incident. A lot had changed since that day. He and Yunho had become…lovers.
Lovers.
His cheeks darkened even more as the word echoed in his head. Unlike the first time, that being the incident, Yunho didn’t avoid him afterward. When the rain had stopped and they’d made their way home, they’d parted ways without a word. His mind had been muddled with a million thoughts, his emotions in disarray, not to mention the physical discomfort he’d felt from…what had happened, and then riding a horse afterward. But despite all that had been going on inside of him, he couldn’t help wondering if things would’ve turned out the same. If Yunho would’ve stayed away from him again, filled with guilt and who knows what other emotions and thoughts.
He’d gotten his answer that very night.
He’d been in bed, tossing and turning and unable to sleep, when he’d heard a door sliding open. He leaned back on his elbows and looked towards his door expectantly but the door was closed. Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed movement and when he looked, he was shocked to see Yunho climbing through the wall that separated their room. Apparently there was a recessed panel that, when pushed, slid open to reveal a partitioned doorway. He’d been so shocked, he couldn’t formulate a cohesive thought, much less for talking. The next thing he knew, Yunho was next to him, taking him in his arms and the minute his mouth touched his, he was lost.
They’d made love every night since. Yunho was busy during the day, meeting with the Ministers and overseeing preparations for the emissary and his entourage, so they rarely met during the day. If he had a free afternoon, they’d resume their usual pastime in his room or go riding, which usually took them to the cabin and…well, no matter how tired Yunho might be, he always seemed invigorated when he was with Jae. But at night, they were always together. If his meetings finished early, Jae would wait for him in his room and they would play chess or Yunho would have Jae read to him. Jae didn’t find anything special about his voice but Yunho said it soothed him and he believed him. He learned so much about the man from those stories, about how honorable and selfless he was. Then, when everything around them was still, they’d make love and fall asleep in each other’s arms.
One night they’d been in bed when one of Yunho’s personal guards had come in to wake him when an urgent situation had arisen. Jae had been mortified and scooted as far under the covers as he could get after taking a look at the man’s surprised face. Yunho had told the guard to give him a minute and dismissed him. As soon as he’d left, Yunho peeled back the covers. Jae was surprised to see Yunho looking so calm when they’d just been found out. His face must have relayed that because Yunho asked,
“Why are you hiding? There’s nothing to be embarrassed about.”
Jae gasped. Nothing to be embarrassed about? “We’ve been seen together. In bed. Pretty soon, everyone’s going to know. He must have been disgusted by what he saw. Oh no, the Ministers. They’re going to cause even more trouble for you when they find out.”
Yunho threw his head back and laughed. Jae stared at him silently, blinking in confusion.
Yunho sobered, a tender smile settling on his lips. “You’re so innocent...and sweet for worrying about me. And clearly unobservant.”
Jae frowned. “What do you mean?”
“Well, firstly, haven’t you ever noticed that MinWoo and JunYoung are always together?”
Jae rolled his eyes. “Well, of course they are. They’re your personal guard. They’re always together, guarding you.”
Yunho pinched the tip of his nose. “No, silly. Even when they’re off duty, they’re always together. They even live together.”
Jae’s frown deepened. “That’s not uncommon. Don’t all the soldiers live in the same quarters?”
Yunho nodded. “The soldiers do, but MinWoo and YunYoung don’t. They aren’t soldiers, they’re my personal guard...by their choosing. They’re actually the sons of noblemen, very important ones at that. We trained together in Ruan. Instead of going back to their kingdoms, they chose to come with me. Mostly because they felt that they owed me. I saved their lives you see. One day, while we were still in Ruan, we went on a raid, much like the one you read about. However, this village was more than prepared to fend us off. We lost some great men that day. JunYoung was almost a casualty as well. He’d been injured and MinWoo wouldn’t leave his side yet he couldn’t defend himself and protect JunYoung too. I was leading the squadron they were in, despite their being older than me. The Chief had faith in my abilities. They’d gotten themselves in a tight spot and it would’ve been much easier to leave them but I couldn’t leave them behind. They were my men, my responsibility. They were also my friends. By some miracle, I managed to get us all out alive.”
He pointed at a scar on his left arm just below his shoulder. “A memento.”
Jae’s eyes were wide and full of interest at the story. He’d never really noticed the scar on Yunho’s arm. There was never really time to notice anything once Yunho started touching him.
Yunho absently threaded a hand through Jae’s silky hair. “I’ll let you read about it some time. I know how much you love adventure stories.”
Jae smiled. Suddenly remembering something Yunho had said, he asked, “You said that they stayed with you mostly because they felt that they owed you. What’s the other reason?”
Yunho smiled and lifted hand and gently cupped Jae’s cheek. “Because it was the only way they could stay together.”
Jae gasped, his eyes widening in surprise.
“They were in love. That’s why MinWoo couldn’t leave JunYoung, even though it meant that he would probably die too. They wanted to repay me, that much is true, but serving me also gave them cover. As my guards, they’d be forced to stay in close quarters, to me and to each other. It was also a noble enough position that their fathers didn’t object too much. They’re free to leave whenever they so choose but they won’t. They can’t. I don’t think they can live without each other. I’ve never seen something so beautiful. In my relationship with the Chief, there’d been affection and caring, lust and maybe brotherly love, but that was it.”
Relationship, Jae thought, unable to ignore the word. That answered one of his unspoken questions.
“I’d never experienced anything remotely close to what they have until…” Yunho paused, his cheeks flaming with color and for once, he was the one to look away.
Jae stilled, bracing himself for what Yunho was going to say yet wanting him to continue.
Shaking it off, Yunho dropped his hand and slid out of bed to put on his clothes. “Anyway, you don’t have to worry about them. They’ll take my secrets to the grave. Besides, do you really think I would surround myself with people I didn’t literally trust with my life? DongWoon and KiBum also trained with us and chose to follow me here. They’re of common lineage but the five of us were the best of friends so when my father died and I was called home, it seemed natural for them to join the three of us. I trust them with my life as they would, and have trusted, me with theirs.”
It was still new to him, Jae thought as he stepped into the hall. This openness, the nature of their relationship. He was still confused and conflicted, still battling with the right and wrong of it. Never in his wildest dreams had he envisioned himself being intimate with a man. It was not only wrong, immoral and possibly illegal, it was also unnatural. Yet, he’d never pictured himself with a woman either. He knew what it was like to be with a man, now, but he still had no idea what being with a woman entailed. If he thought being with a man was wrong yet he found pleasure in it, at least with the king anyway, then would he find similar pleasure in being with a woman? He would’ve loved to talk to someone, to ask all the questions flying through his head, but he couldn’t without exposing Yunho and he’d never do that. Yunho was the only one he could ask but…he couldn’t. Yunho’s feelings for him were strong. He knew it, saw it in his eyes, felt it in his embrace, his kisses. And Yunho had never been with a woman himself either. He knew that he and the Queen had consummated their union as had been expected. They’d had no choice with the Queen’s father, the king, and Yunho’s father’s representative right outside the bedroom door waiting for the ‘evidence’. But Yunho had said that he’d never touched her again so Jae didn’t think that one forced experience counted. He wondered if he could do it, thought through all the faces of the women he saw on a daily basis, and felt…nothing.
“What’s wrong?” JiHye asked, making him jump.
He sighed. “Nothing.”
Her brow furrowed. “Doesn’t look like nothing.”
“JiHye-ah…” TaeHun spoke from her other side, his eyes patient and adoring when they rested on her face. “Leave your brother alone.”
“I only ask because I love him,” she argued, pouting.
Jaejoong took a deep breath and smiled. “I appreciate your concern, sister. You look lovely today.”
JiHye bowed her head accordingly, her cheeks pinkening attractively. “You look very pretty yourself,” she teased.
Jae rolled his eyes and glanced down at his formal wear. Yunho had had it specially made for him. It was a deep black with a gold brocade. It reminded him of the cover of the book Yunho had given him on his birthday.
His birthday…
He blushed as he remembered what else Yunho had given him on his birthday.
Yunho had also had a beautiful hanbok made for JiHye, a deep plum with the same gold brocade. Their clothes were complementary but distinctive enough to the people that wore them. Jae tried to ignore the looks they garnered as they made their way down the line of people that had gathered but it was hard. He knew that they looked almost as regal as the King and Queen themselves. He made a mental note to have a word with Yunho about that.
As they passed the Minister of War, he couldn’t ignore the burst of disgust that soured his stomach when he saw the way the man’s eyes roved over his sister. He bit down on his tongue to keep himself quiet. When those eyes flicked over him in much the same way, he felt his skin crawl. However, he was so proud of JiHye. She walked past the man, head held high as if she truly were royalty, despite the disgust he was sure she was probably feeling as well. She’d never talked in detail with him about what had happened but given how he’d felt after the incident with Yunho, he was sure he had an idea, except Yunho was so much more decent and humane than the Minister. JiHye didn’t have that comfort.
They found their positions, TaeHun posting himself behind JiHye, and stood in the receiving line, awaiting the King and Queen’s’s entrance, followed by the visiting emissary and his entourage. It was a slow procession, one that was extremely boring and tedious and would have been more so if not for the accompanying music.
Jae’s heart stuttered when he caught sight of Yunho making his way down the aisle. He was resplentdant in rich wine red robes with gold detailing. His formal headdress made him look even more kingly than usual. His face was set in serious lines. Sometimes when he looked at Yunho when he was in an official capacity, that is when he was in the role of king, it was hard to believe that he was the same person who shared his bed. Gone was the man who clung to him desperately in the dark of night, drugging him with kisses and driving them both insane with pleasure. In his place stood a king, tall and proud, who walked amongst his people like the god he represented. His eyes reflected his adoration for them but his face was all business, not giving away his thoughts or feelings. He looked like a man that one ought to think twice before trifling with. But as he passed Jae, his eyes met Jae’s and they seemed to smile, even though his facial expression didn’t change at all.
As the day wore on, the festivities began. After the nooning meal, which lasted a lengthy four hours, the king, the Ministers and the emissary, Lord Yoo, retired to the king’s study. The emissary’s entourage were led to the banquet hall to partake of the activities that had been prepared in their honor. Jae and JiHye retired to their rooms to rest before the evening’s events. Jae shed his clothes, changing into something more comfortable that he could sleep in and not worry about rumpling. It felt like his head had only just hit the pillow when JiHye was waking him up to go to dinner. As he put back on the heavy robes and fixed his hair before donning his cap, he grumbled to himself. He really needed to start catching up on sleep. Or maybe nap more. Perhaps he could ask Yunho…
“Jae!” JiHye called impatiently from outside his door.
“I’m coming!”
Still grumbling, he swung open the door and glowered at her before turning to TaeHun and nodding.
“Gosh, you’re in a pissy mood,” JiHye commented as they made their way through the winding corridors then outside.
“I’m just tired,” he explained, stifling a yawn.
“Aren’t you sleeping well?” she inquired, genuinely concerned.
He couldn’t stop the color from flooding his cheeks. “Uh…um, just having a little problem settling down lately. It should pass soon.”
She gave him a skeptical look but said nothing.
Dinner was a lot shorter than lunch, for which Jae was extremely grateful. Though the food was good, all of the pleasantries and enforced conversation were sapping what little strength he had left. The potency of the wine didn’t help either. Thankfully, no one paid any attention to him or tried to engage him in conversation. Occasionally he caught Yunho looking at him from the head of the table and color would instantly bloom in his cheeks. He hated that that was his automatic reaction to Yunho’s looks and caresses, hated that it was so visible. Damn his too-fair skin!
“My Queen,” the emissary spoke loudly all of a sudden. “Your father sends his regards.”
The Queen smiled and nodded duly. “I hope you’ll give him mine in return.”
The emissary took a sip of wine and looked at her carefully of the rim of his goblet, gauging the reaction of the question he was about to ask. “He inquires as to when he will have a child to call grandson.”
The Queen’s cheeks filled with angry color, her grip on her goblet tightening.
There was a lot of uncomfortable coughing and shifting, those seated at the table looked anywhere but at the people in question.
Jae’s eyes widened in disbelief, then narrowed as he fought an over-whelming urge to plant his fist in the man’s face. How dare he embarrass the Queen that way?
“I don’t think that topic is fit for the dinner table, my lord,” Yunho spoke up. He was smiling but his tone was hard as steel and brook no argument.
Lord Yoo bowed his head abashedly, light color staining his cheeks. “My apologies, sire. I’ve heard that you are quite capable with a geomungo. I hope that I shall have the honor of watching you perform tonight.”
Yunho nodded. “As you wish.”
Jae was still burning with silent fury but he was happy that Yunho hadn’t let the man’s rudeness slide. He felt sorry for the Queen, though. Her eyes were lowered, head still bowed. He could only imagine how humiliated she was.
Dinner was soon called to a close and the ladies and gentlemen went off to clean up before assembling in the courtyard for the night’s entertainments. Jae was stumbling down the hall after leaving the restroom, eyes half-closed when he realized that he’d taken a wrong turn somewhere. He turned and was about to make his way back when he heard arguing in a nearby room, the voices were hushed but the tones were harsh enough to make them audible.
“You’ve been here three years already. You’re both young and healthy, I fail to see the problem.”
He immediately recognized Lord Yoo’s haughtiness. Just hearing the man’s voice again made him want to pummel him.
“Babies don’t just pop out of the air, my lord.”
Jae’s eyes widened. It was the Queen.
“No, they don’t, but you’ve had more than enough time since you’ve been here. You could’ve had as many children by now.”
The Queen gasped. “Three children in three years? Do you take me for a brood mare, my lord?”
Jae could almost picture the man shrugging as he said, “You have your duty, to your husband and to the throne, both his and your father’s. It’s a woman’s job to do as her husband demands whenever he demands it. Have you been difficult? Is that it? Is he forced to turn to concubines to have his needs met?”
Jae heard the slap of an open palm against soft flesh and brought a hand to his mouth to cover his gasp.
“My husband is not so low or base as to seek the company of whores. He is a man of integrity and honor. He would never risk bringing a bastard into this world knowing the stigma that would follow the child his entire life.”
“Better a bastard than none at all. At least then you can claim it and raise it as your own. Your father is most concerned about this matter. Until a child is born, there will be uncertainty about the strength of the alliance between the kingdoms. You are the only thread binding us together and, unfortunately your highness, a woman will never be enough to ensure that that bond stays intact.”
Jae heard the Queen’s heavy breathing and could imagine how hard she fought for self-control at this new humiliation. He was fighting the urge to barge in there and defend her when she spoke.
“You can tell my father that he will have his precious grandchild within the year.” Her tone was low, voice cold and hard.
“See that it’s done,” Lord Yoo replied.
Hearing heavy footsteps making their way toward the door, Jae ran as soundlessly as he could down the hall and out the front door into the dark night. He needed some time to process what he’d just heard so instead of heading straight for the courtyard, he walked aimlessly through the gardens to the koi pond. Staring down at the fish, he pondered the complexities of the King and Queen’s relationship. He wondered, yet again, why Yunho had never bedded her again. Their first time was understandably awkward given that they’d been monitored but why hadn’t he tried to be intimate with her once that task was out of the way? Perhaps if he had tried, he might have liked it and fallen in love with her or at least come to care for her in some way. He’d never really thought about it before but he imagined that the Queen was possibly more lonely than the King had been. She was like he had been when he’d been sent away for training: a stranger in a foreign land, fulfilling her responsibilities but having no friends or family to turn to for support or comfort.
Was it too late for them?, he wondered. Perhaps if Yunho really gave it a try, they might be successful. He wasn’t sure how many times it took to make a baby but did it really matter? It was necessary. Producing an heir was just as much Yunho’s responsibility as it was the Queen’s and though he might be a good king, an honorable one, he was shirking that particular duty. They were both young but if they weren’t even trying now, wouldn’t it take even longer if they waited until they were older? And they lived in uncertain times. Yunho had acknowledged that he had enemies within the kingdom’s walls. He never knew when they would strike so he couldn’t take time for granted. He needed to do what needed to be done as soon as possible.
But Jae knew he wouldn’t, especially now that he was in the picture. Yunho clearly had no interest in the Queen and though he wasn’t sure what was going on between them, he knew that Yunho would never touch her so long as Jae was in the picture. He wasn’t sure if Yunho loved him but he knew that he was committed to whatever emotion it was that he felt. He didn’t want to be an obstacle between them, though. He didn’t want to be the reason for the Queen’s humiliation or to cause Yunho further stress if the Queen’s father continued to be displeased.
A dull ache took up residence behind his left eye and he wished he could just go to his room and hide from the world and all the confusing complexities it held.
The faint sound of music wafted over on the night air and with a sigh, he made his way back to the courtyard.
The Queen, Lord Yoo, the Ministers, their families and other invited guests were seated at a long row of tables that had been set up on an elevated stage at the top of the palace steps looking down onto the courtyard. Jae’s eyes widened slightly as he realized that the king was sitting with the performers in the courtyard and not at his spot beside the Queen. He was tweaking the instrument as professionally as the other performers were. Unconsciously, he stepped out of the shadows and into the light, pushing his way to the front of the group of people that had gathered at the foot of the steps.
The first strum of the strings struck a cord deep inside of him. The melody that came after was sad, haunting. When Yunho began singing, Jae couldn’t bare to look at him. There was so much pain and sadness in his voice.
“The way he looks at you…” JiHye began, suddenly appearing behind him. “I’ve never seen such intense emotions in someone’s eyes when they look at another.”
Jae’s head snapped around pinning her with a hard gaze. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
JiHye raised an eyebrow. “Jae… I’m not blind, nor am I stupid. The fact that he can hardly ever keep his eyes off you makes it that much more obvious.”
At her words, Jae turned to look at Yunho and sure enough, as the music swelled around them, his eyes were on Jae. They were filled with emotion but Jae couldn’t tell what exactly.
With Yunho’s eyes on him and his eyes on Yunho, neither of them saw or felt another pair of eyes watching them.
Jae was finally starting to doze off when he heard his door slide open then close. He stayed still, not giving any indication that he’d heard it. When the bed dipped beside him, he waited: for a touch, a gentle caress, a soft word.
Instead, his covers were rudely pulled back. He sat up immediately and gasped in surprise when he found himself face to face with the Queen.
“My lady, your highness.” He coughed to clear his throat. “Have you come to the wrong room?”
It was dark so he couldn’t see her very clearly but he thought he saw her jaw tighten.
“No,” she said, her voice cold. “I’m exactly where I meant to be.”
Jae swallowed thickly, not knowing what to say.
“I wondered how best to go about this. Do I play the Queen card, just order you out of here? Do I play nice, butter you up? I don’t think you would fall for the latter and I haven’t the strength for the former so I’m just going to be honest. I need your help. I’m here to beg for your help.”
Jae gasped. “I don’t…”
“Please, leave this room. Just for an hour, no more, no less. That’s all I need.”
Jae’s heart beat erratically in his chest. Had they been found out? “I’m sorry, I don’t…”
“He’ll come to you,” she said, her voice breaking. “He’ll need you after such a long, tiring day. It has to be tonight.”
“Your majesty, I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
She laughed, the sound bordering on hysteria. “Do you take me for a fool? I’m not stupid, nor am I blind,” she mocked, repeating JiHye’s earlier words. “I see the way he looks at you. It’s impossible not to. While I’m watching him, looking for some sign, some opening to bring us closer, he’s watching you, always watching.”
“Your majesty…”
“Don’t!” she said sharply, raising a hand to stop him. “No lies. I’ve already accepted the fact that he’ll only be a husband to me in name only. We used to be friends, a long time ago, but now we’re practically strangers…” Her words ended on a sorrowful note. “Still, it doesn’t change the fact that we have a duty to perform, responsibilities to uphold. He’s an honorable man but he needs a little push and I can’t give it to him. It has to come from you.”
Jae swallowed again. “He won’t listen to me.”
The Queen took his hand, gripped it hard. “Yes, he will. You don’t need to say anything to him. Just the fact that you left this room, gave us this time together, will be your answer. He’ll have no choice but to honor the sacrifice you’ve made. He won’t do it for me but he’ll do it for you if you give him permission.”
She laughed again, bitterly. “How far I’ve fallen. Me, the Queen, begging a child to allow me access to my own husband so that we may ensure the future, all of our futures. It’s true what they say… Women bear the burdens of the world.”
Jae’s heart clenched painfully in his chest. “I’m sorry…”
The Queen shook her head. “I don’t want your apologies. Save your words. Just please, go.”
Jae slid out from under the covers and rolled to the other side of the bed. Not bothering to redress completely, he grabbed for a robe and pulled on the first thing his hand came in contact with. He slid his foot into his shoes and quietly exited the room.
As he walked down the hall, he prayed not to run into anyone, especially not Yunho or his guards. He didn’t want anyone asking him questions. He made it outside safely. It was clear but for a few late stragglers. Walking quickly, he made his way across the courtyard to his favorite tree by the small lake. He lay down on the grass, damp with dew, and stared up at the stars in the sky. He didn’t know how his life had gotten to that point, where he’d gone wrong. Was it too late to turn back?
Sighing, he focused on the stars, trying to keep his mind off of what was taking place back in his room.
Yunho was exhausted. It took all of his strength to keep walking until he reached his chamber. He said goodbye to his guards at the door, dismissing them for the night so they could get some much needed rest themselves.
He walked to his bed and started to disrobe and his eyes fell on the wall knowing what lay beyond.
Jae…
He’d missed him today. He’d wanted very much to tell him how beautiful he’d looked in his formal garb. It should be handsome but with Jae, that word just didn’t fit. Both he and JiHye were visions. He couldn’t help but notice other people’s admiring glances towards the two. Including Minister Lee, unfortunately. Thankfully TaeHun had been there and Minister Lee’s own family so Yunho was almost certain he’d been on his best behaviour the entire day.
He was tired but he needed to see Jae, just to hear his voice, to smell him, feel him. He didn’t think he had the strength to make love but if he could just hold him while he slept, it would be enough.
He pulled off his clothes piece by piece until only his undergarments remained. Walking to the wall, he slid aside the panel and stepped through the door.
A single candle was lit, casting shadows around the room. As he glanced at the bed, he saw the faint glow of a pale shoulder as Jae’s back was turned towards him. Just the sight of that smooth, fair skin had him hardening.
I guess I’m not as tired as I thought, he thought with a smile.
He walked to the bed and slid beneath the cover. Curling into Jae, he slid his arm around his waist and pulled him closer. As his hand slid upward, he encountered a soft, round…
Breast.
Yunho immediately snatched his hand away and jumped a foot away, teetering on the edge of the bed.
The Queen raised up to a sitting position, her hair falling down her naked back, and looked at him over her shoulder. “Surprise,” she said with a feral smile.
Yunho caught himself before his mouth fell open. Anger descended on him swiftly, coloring his cheeks. “Where’s Jae?”
She turned towards him, uncaring of exposing her completely nude body. “He left,” she said simply, “so I thought I might see to your needs tonight.”
Yunho’s jaw clenched. “Get out,” he spat.
He was about to turn away and roll off the bed when she snatched his wrist, her grip tight.
“He gave us this time, at my request. Do not make him regret it.”
Yunho tugged on his wrist unsuccessfully. “Let go of me, madam. I don’t want to hurt you.”
The Queen threw her head back and laughed. “You don’t want to hurt me? I’m sorry to inform you that it’s a bit too late for that. What do you think you’ve been doing for the past three years? Was ignoring me supposed to be fun? I had no say in this, just like you, so don’t for a second think that you’re the only one suffering here. Now, not only do you ignore me but you flaunt your lover in my face.”
The color in Yunho’s cheeks deepened. “I don’t…”
“Tomato, tomahto. Flaunting, can’t keep your eyes off him, call it what you will. You have no idea how transparent you are, my lord. The love you have for that boy shines in your eyes like moonbeams. He might be the only one who doesn’t see it.”
Yunho swallowed. “Does anyone…”
She shook her head. “No one knows. You look at him like he’s your lifeline but you cover yourself well. And those who do suspect would never dear breathe a word for fear of it getting back to you.” She paused. “I’ve been accused of being frigid, been called difficult, infertile. I’ve had to swallow my pride, to come in here and beg, literally plead for my husband’s lover to give me this one night with him. And he did. Because he understands what’s at stake. It’s not about you and I, whether you love or want me. Love rarely ever plays a part in marriages like ours. But kings and queens before us have done what they needed to do to carry on the family line and ensure the safety of their kingdoms. We are no different. You’ve avoided it for three years, it can’t be put off any longer. You heard Lord Yoo: my father is very displeased. You know how difficult he can be. The last thing we need is for him to pay a personal visit.”
She paused again, taking a deep breath and ending it on a sigh. Her voice, when she spoke again, reflected defeat and acceptance.
“If none of that sways you then think of the boy. He left because he knew that it was the only way you would let me have you. I’m sure that, wherever he is, this can’t be easy for him. Don’t let his sacrifice be in vain.”
Yunho closed his eyes for a minute and took a deep breath. Just the thought of being with her turned his blood cold. He had nothing against her personally, she was doing her duty just like she’d said. But he didn’t know if he could lie with someone he had no feelings for. He’d done it to consummate their marriage but the truth was, it almost didn’t happen. Needless to say, it had been a humiliating experience for them both. But now…with Jae in his heart, mind and soul, he was supposed to give his body to her, make life with her? Not for the first time, he cursed the world he had been born into. Other than Jae, there was nothing he wouldn’t change if he could. His poor Jae… He wondered where he was.
“Please,” she said softly, beseeching.
He knew it couldn’t be easy on her either. She was right. He’d been a fool to think he could avoid it forever.
Taking a deep breath, he kicked off the covers. Grabbing the Queen’s wrist, he tugged until she fell back onto the bed. He flipped her onto her stomach and kicked her legs apart, spreading her thighs.
As he pushed his pants down to his knees, he leaned forward and whispered in her ear,
“I won’t be gentle.”
Pushing up to her knees, she glanced at him over her shoulder and said, “I didn’t expect you to be.”
A/N: If you haven't seen the movie, this is the song I was referencing: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lFWIgToLukY It's a large part of why I love Frozen Flower so much. I loved the movie but I really fell for the song, especially during the beautiful ending after all the tragedy. The video also gives you an idea of what the setting, costumes, etc would look like. I wish I could find a proper trans of the song but no luck so far. I read a brief explanation but I forgot where. Anyway, it's a touching song.
BTW, Jae is 18 now. He lost his virginity on his birthday, remember?
Part VIII