I Love You, Your Majesty 6b/?
Title: I Love You, Your Majesty
Chapter: 6b/?
>> Character List ||| Chp: 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6a | 6b
Genre: AU, Romance, Various
Rating: PG-13
Pairing: 2min, Onew/OC, JongKey
Disclaimer: I only own the story. :D
Summary: Once upon a time, there lived two lovable princes; Prince Onew and Prince Taemin. Everyone respects and looks up to them, they were the perfect role models. But really, there's more to them than just being Princes. (Omfg I seriously fail at giving summary ._.)
A/N: Posting chapter 7 in a while! I didn't want to keep you guys waiting so enjoy 6b first! :D Happy Valentine's Day everyone~!!!
***
C H A P T E R S I X ( P A R T T W O )
“Minho?” Taemin strolled around. He asked a few passer-bys if they had seen a good-looking tall person with a cold face walking around, but none of them spotted him. He was starting to contemplate whether he should head back to the castle first. He wasn’t even afraid that he was alone - he was more concerned for Minho’s safety.
“Maybe he went to buy something.” Taemin mumbled to himself. “What should I do now?”
“Prince Taemin?”
Taemin stopped on his track as a teenager around his age addressed him. “Your companion is injured. Follow me.”
Taemin’s heart throbbed painfully. Minho is injured? How? When? Where? “Lead the way!”
Taemin was too lost in his worry that he didn’t feel suspicious about the teen’s identity. He was too naïve - after all he was never exposed to the dangerous world before.
The teen smirked inwardly at the gullible prince who was tailing him blindly. He led Taemin to the less crowded area, towards a deserted alley where people rarely go there.
“Where’s Minho?”
“He’s not here.” The teen turned to face Taemin, stating the obvious.
“But you said he’s injured and-“
“I didn’t say I’d bring you to him.”
Two pairs of arms seized each of Taemin’s hands, pinning them on his back. Taemin let out a yelp as one of them kicked his joints to make him kneel on the ground.
“Our apologies, Your Majesty.” The teen ridiculed. “It’s really rude that we are speaking to you without introducing ourselves.”
Taemin gulped in fear. He was mentally chanting, calling for Minho as if the latter was some sort of mind reader. Too bad this is not Twilight and Minho isn’t Edward Cullen.
“W-What do you want from me?” Taemin asked, trying to sound brave but the shiver in his tone proved otherwise.
“We want you to stay with us for tonight, Dear Prince.” The one holding his right arm snarled.
Taemin was not that dense. He understood what this meant.
This group of people wanted to destroy the tradition; the friendship between the two kingdoms. If Taemin didn’t turn up for the ball tonight, one of the two princesses will have no escort and that would seem like the Princes were being rude and disinterested. The neighboring kingdom might get offended and break ties with them.
Taemin was about to say something when the pressure around his arms loosens - he was freed. In a flash he realized that the two men holding him and the teen who led him here were all lying unconscious on the ground.
“Are you all right?” Minho panted as he tugged Taemin to him. “Did they hurt you? I’m sorry for being late.”
Minho was perspiring badly and his arm was bleeding. Taemin was still speechless as he stared - gaped - at Minho. What just happened?
“Taemin?” Minho furrowed his brows in worry. He cupped his cheek using his uninjured arm. “Prince?”
“M-Minho?” Taemin blinked. He then caught sight of the red stain on Minho’s sleeve. “Where were you- you’re injured!”
“That’s not important.” Minho gritted his teeth - it was apparent that he was in pain. “Are you injured?”
Taemin’s heart warmed. Minho was more concerned about his well being than himself. “I’m okay.”
“Good. We need to get out of here and find somewhere safe. They are still after you.”
They both ventured deeper into branches of alleys. Blood was still gushing out of Minho’s wound but the assistant refused to stop to allow Taemin to treat his injury. It was only after they made a turn into a dead-end that they both halted.
Minho knew this place very well. Everything was still the same - the crack on the wall, the surrounding… It was as if time froze in here.
“Let’s go.” He pulled Taemin’s sleeve, going into the hiding where he spent his childhood with Jonghyun and Yoonhae.
-*-
“Where is Taemin and Minho?” Jinki whispered to Yoonhae. They were all inside the dining room - Princess Sulli, Prince Onew, Key and his (self-proclaimed) escort, Jonghyun, and Yoonhae. But there was an empty chair - Taemin wasn’t back.
“I’ve asked the guards, they are not back yet, Your Majesty.” Yoonhae replied in a whisper.
“Is everything all right, Jinki oppa?” Sulli asked, her tone concerned. Key made a gagging face at Jonghyun, who simply coughed to hide his laughter. Yoonhae cleared her throat and straightened up her posture.
“No, everything is all right. Let’s eat.” Jinki waved awkwardly at Krystal, who was standing at the corner of the room waiting for the signal when she could start bringing the lunch in.
Yoonhae and Jonghyun exchanged gazes as the royalties ate (they both were not eating because the table is only set for the princes and princess, it’s rude to join in their meal), worrying about Minho and Taemin’s whereabouts.
Yoonhae caught Jonghyun’s lips moving and lip-read him.
If they are not back by sunset, I’ll go look for them.
She nodded slightly before replying him. I hope everything will be fine.
-*-
It was half past two and Yoonhae was getting very, very anxious. Jinki seemed to be really distracted too - even though he covered it well as he guided Princess Sulli around the castle, his anxiety was apparent from how he always glances at the castle gate’s direction.
Taemin had said that he would come back before lunch. He was a man of his words - so why was he late?
Jonghyun had taken the liberty to ask the castle guards to tighten their security. He was considering getting out of the castle to look for them but Key stopped him.
“It’s dangerous out there.” The diva had said.
“Omo, are you worrying about me?” Jonghyun grinned happily, “I’m so touched, Jagiya!”
“What the f- I’m not your jagiya!!” Key blushed. “I’m just saying we could ask Kyuhyun to patrol around instead! No need for you to search them single handedly!”
“That’s not a good idea. The villagers might realize something is wrong and start to panic.” Jonghyun shook his head.
“Ugh, whatever.” Key huffed and followed Jinki and Sulli (and by follow, meaning he was around three meters behind them). “I’m just worried that he won’t make it on time for the ball. We need two princes to attend the ball so that both princesses have escorts!”
“Why don’t you consider being a prince then?” Jonghyun suggested with a raised eyebrow.
Key kept silent. Jonghyun was about to apologize when he noticed Key’s furrowed eyebrows. It seemed that he was weighing the consequences, but the raptor didn’t push it anymore. He knew that if the situation were critical, Key wouldn’t bear to not do anything and let the kingdoms fall.
What a responsible person. Jonghyun shrugged. He totally fits the criteria to be a good prince.
“Yoonhae?” Jinki called, but as he turned back he realized his assistant was nowhere to be found. He stopped in his tracks and stared at Jonghyun and Key.
“She went to the guard’s house.” Key informed him casually.
“Oh. Okay.” Jinki nodded.
“Are you sure everything is fine?” Sulli reconfirmed.
“Yeah. Not to worry.” Jinki reassured. “What time will Princess Victoria be here?”
“She said she’d be here by sunset. Before the ball.” Princess Sulli answered sweetly - Key made another gagging face.
“Hm, okay.” Jinki took Sulli’s hand again. “Let’s bring you to your room so you can rest before tonight’s party.”
“Oh but I want to walk around some more!” Sulli pouted. Jinki seemed astonished - Key could tell his cousin wanted some Sulli-free time so he could discuss about Taemin’s disappearance, so the almighty diva came to the rescue.
“We need to beautify the castle for the ball tonight, so it’ll be better if you take some good rest.” Key spoke in a tone that could only be described, as alluring, but Jonghyun couldn’t help detecting some sarcasm in it, “The ball tonight is going to be the best thing you ever attended to - I promise - but there are lots of preparation needed. I hope you understand… Milady?”
Sulli innocently nodded and chuckled, “Okay then… I guess.”
Jinki let out an inaudible relieved sigh as he led her to one of the guest rooms. Key stretched his arms and tailed behind them again.
-*-
By the time Jinki could sink himself on his comfortable sofa in his bedroom, it was almost four in the afternoon and there was still no news of Taemin and Minho.
“I have asked Kyuhyun and his men to search around the town on foot - it’ll be too obvious to ask him travel with horses.” Yoonhae informed him. “They set out an hour ago but there are still no news.”
“Are you freaking kidding me?!” Jinki ruffled his own hair in frustration, “This isn’t funny!”
Yoonhae bit her lower lip - she could tell Jinki was frustrated thinking about the ball tonight and at the same time, dead worried about Taemin’s well being. A lot of things can happen out there - like when Jinki was out with Yoonhae in the past. What if someone kidnapped Taemin?
“Minho is a strong person. Taemin will be fine.” Jonghyun casually remarked. Yoonhae could only nod in response.
“But still.” Jinki sighed.
Key watched the whole scene nervously before he stood up.
“What time will the ball be starting?” Key clarified.
“I’ll be waiting for Princess Victoria at the foyer by five thirty. Taemin is supposed to fetch Princess Sulli from her room by five forty five.”
“Okay. So I have roughly an hour plus to get ready.” Key stood up. “I’ll take over Taemin if he’s not back by then. Don’t think too much, hyung. Let’s go, dino, you need to help me dress up!”
“As you wish, my darling!”
“I’m-not-your-darling!”
They both exited Jinki’s bedroom, leaving Jinki alone with Yoonhae.
The assistant placed a comforting arm on the prince’s shoulder.
“Your Highness, it’ll be okay.” Yoonhae tried to calm Jinki down, but her heart was beating furiously against her ribcage as well, “I’m sure Prince Taemin will be fine.” And I hope Minho will be fine too.
Jinki didn’t reply verbally. Instead, he took Yoonhae’s hand and stood up, facing his assistant.
“You have no idea how much I wish I was escorting you instead of any princesses later on.” Jinki murmured as he took a step forward - and to Yoonhae’s surprise - placed his head on his assistant’s shoulder.
“Let me rest for a few minutes.” He mumbled again, his left hand wrapped around Yoonhae’s waist as his right hand moved to intertwine their fingers.
Yoonhae froze on her spot, not knowing what to do. Her heart was still furiously beating, but it wasn’t because of anxiety nor fear anymore.
-*-
Taemin’s hands were shaky as he bandaged Minho’s arm. He had never seen so much blood before - this was a first - and his heart ached so much from the knowledge that it was Minho’s blood.
“How did you get injured?” Taemin asked, voice quivery.
“I’m sorry to scare you. It’s just a small scratch.” Minho tried to comfort the scared prince.
Of course it wasn’t a small scratch at all. The wound was enough to make Minho’s lips turn pale and Taemin could feel Minho’s slightly warm temperature. The young prince found some pills to aid lack of blood inside the first aid box and gave two to Minho.
“What is this place anyway?”
The place was not exactly clean after being abandoned for almost seven years now, but Taemin could feel a cozy aura throughout. There was a broken table in the middle of the room with three chairs surrounding it and a few pictures hanging on the cracked wall. The roof was not even fully sheltering them, but through the holes they could see the sky and Taemin thinks that it must be beautiful to see the stars from here during nighttime.
“This is where we lived last time.” Minho replied, “Jonghyun hyung, Yoonhae noona and I.”
“!!! You guys lived together? How fun!” Taemin squealed. “I always wondered how does it feel to live with your friends.”
“Yeah. It was really fun.” Minho chuckled as he ruffled Taemin’s hair. “But it’s fun living with you too.”
(Flashback)
“You look like a frog.”
Minho glared at the young girl standing in front of him. She gave him a wide smile in return.
“Mind your own business.”
“Why are you so cold? I’m just being friendly.”
Minho was about to retort but his hunger was making his stomach lurch. He fell on his knees clutching his stomach.
“Are you okay? Here, have some rice balls.” She took out a container with three rice balls and put it in front of Minho. Being the hungry person Minho was, he immediately gobbled the food down.
“Easy there.” She chuckled at his action. “My name is Yoonhae, I’m 8. And you?”
“Minho, 7.”
“Why are you here, Minho? Don’t you have a family?”
Minho stared at her blankly. “I don’t know.”
“What do you mean you don’t know?”
“I can’t remember anything.” Minho admitted. “When I woke up, I was all alone and no one knows who I am. The only thing I know was my name, it says so on here.”
Minho showed a bracelet around his arm to Yoonhae. The word Minho was carved into it.
“I see.” Yoonhae nodded. “Then do you want to live with me?”
“Why are you being nice to me?” Minho narrowed his eyes.
“Let’s just say we’re fated to meet.” Yoonhae shrugged. “Let’s go. Jjong is waiting.”
“Jjong?”
“My best friend, Jonghyun. You’ll see him later. He’s a genius.” Yoonhae giggled as he grabbed Minho’s wrist. “Let’s go home, Minho!”
(End of Flashback)
Taemin seemed really interested at the story of Minho’s past. He unconsciously sat closer towards his assistant and prompted him to say more.
“Is this the bracelet?” Taemin asked as he noticed a silver chain around Minho’s hand.
“No, the bracelet I wore back then was long spoilt and gone.” Minho panted a little, his vision was starting to blur. “This is a new bracelet that Yoonhae noona gave me as a replacement.”
(Flashback - two years after Minho lived with Yoonhae and Jonghyun)
It was a windy day. Yoonhae and Minho were sparring at the backyard of their ‘house’ while Jonghyun was doing some weird ‘experiment’ again.
“Focus, Minho!” Yoonhae shouted as she threw a kick towards his head.
Minho blocked the kick swiftly and charged forward, punching Yoonhae’s stomach. The older girl winces a little before jumping back.
“That’s good, you’re improving.” She complimented. “I think we should end it here for the day.”
“Great you both are done. Lunch time!” Jonghyun beamed as he brought three bowls of soup and a plate of breads, settling them on the floor.
“Remind me why you don’t have to train like us, hyung.” Minho grumbled as he sat down.
“Well, because I have areas I’m better in.” Jonghyun shrugged. “It’s not my fault that my brain is better than my fists. Not that I’m saying that you both are strong and dumb, okay.”
“You talk like I didn’t catch you practicing some moves when Minho is asleep, Jjong.” Yoonhae teased as she took the spoons and gave one to Minho.
“Moves? What moves?” Jonghyun rolled his eyes.
“Look who’s the dumb one now.”
The three of them picked up the basics skills to survive - cooking, fighting, and things like that. Jonghyun was gifted because he was a genius - his hands can create weapons and fix things. He can probably create some drugs or medicine too - but he just didn’t bother to try. Yoonhae had told Minho that she found Jonghyun all alone in the midst of charcoals of a burnt orphanage one day and they both decided to find a place to live in - that’s how they found this place.
“We’re running low on breads.” Jonghyun announced. “I’m gonna go steal some later.”
“Sure you don’t want me to go?” Yoonhae asked.
“You’re a female. No, I don’t want you to go.” Jonghyun munched on his share of food. “What’s wrong, Minho?”
“The clutch is spoilt, I think.” Minho was fumbling on his bracelet. “Well it’s kind of rusty and all…”
“Do you want me to have a look at it? May be I can fix it.” Jonghyun suggested.
“May be later, since you’ll be busy this afternoon.”
“Alright then.”
The afternoon passed just like that - after they finished their meals, Jonghyun immediately left home to find breads to steal. It was a close call because he was discovered and chased by lots of townspeople - that’s when Minho came to the rescue.
As he heaved Jonghyun’s arm through the crack on the wall so they could escape, his bracelet snapped and fell onto the ground. Minho and Jonghyun didn’t notice anything but continued running, caring more about their lives.
(End of Flashback)
“Why are you crying, Prince Taemin?” Minho was shocked as he saw tears building in Taemin’s eyes.
“Uh. No, it’s just.” Taemin blinked his tears away. “I can’t believe you were going through such a tough time at such a young age. Living alone not knowing who you are… And having to steal breads and starve… I never experienced that and I think it’s just so…”
Minho gathered him into a hug and soothed him.
“It was not that bad, really.” Minho rubbed Taemin’s back. “I had friends with me so it was bearable.”
“I just… I can’t imagine if one day everyone leaves me and I don’t remember a thing.” Taemin choked.
“That will never happen.” Minho spoke firmly, pulling away slightly to face Taemin. “I will not forget you no matter what happens.”
“I won’t walk away from you, not now. Not ever.” Minho tightened his hold on Taemin’s wrist. The young prince was about to say something but Minho placed a chaste kiss on his lips.
“I love you, Your Majesty.” Minho gazed at Taemin lovingly. “I know it’s really stupid for someone like me to love someone so perfect and flawless like you, and we can probably never be together. But I don’t know what will happen after this and I don’t want to die not being to let you know how I feel.”
“Don’t say such thing, we won’t die.” Taemin pouted. “And call me T-A-E-M-I-N!”
Minho chortled. “I just confessed to you and that’s all you can say?”
Taemin blushed again and nuzzled his head at the crook of Minho’s neck.
“I love you too. Stay with me.”
Minho let out a low grunt in agreement before closing his eyes. Really, everything around him was spinning from sometime ago. The wound on his hand was really stinging - that’s right, the stupid guy who injured him was talking about poisoned blade, right? Taemin’s skin felt really good and cooling against his.
“Minho?”
He wanted to reply, but couldn’t find his voice. He mentally chanted for himself to wake up - he needed to protect Taemin, but instead he fell deeper into the darkness.
“Minho! Minho! Open your eyes!”
Chapter: 6b/?
>> Character List ||| Chp: 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6a | 6b
Genre: AU, Romance, Various
Rating: PG-13
Pairing: 2min, Onew/OC, JongKey
Disclaimer: I only own the story. :D
Summary: Once upon a time, there lived two lovable princes; Prince Onew and Prince Taemin. Everyone respects and looks up to them, they were the perfect role models. But really, there's more to them than just being Princes. (Omfg I seriously fail at giving summary ._.)
A/N: Posting chapter 7 in a while! I didn't want to keep you guys waiting so enjoy 6b first! :D Happy Valentine's Day everyone~!!!
***
C H A P T E R S I X ( P A R T T W O )
“Minho?” Taemin strolled around. He asked a few passer-bys if they had seen a good-looking tall person with a cold face walking around, but none of them spotted him. He was starting to contemplate whether he should head back to the castle first. He wasn’t even afraid that he was alone - he was more concerned for Minho’s safety.
“Maybe he went to buy something.” Taemin mumbled to himself. “What should I do now?”
“Prince Taemin?”
Taemin stopped on his track as a teenager around his age addressed him. “Your companion is injured. Follow me.”
Taemin’s heart throbbed painfully. Minho is injured? How? When? Where? “Lead the way!”
Taemin was too lost in his worry that he didn’t feel suspicious about the teen’s identity. He was too naïve - after all he was never exposed to the dangerous world before.
The teen smirked inwardly at the gullible prince who was tailing him blindly. He led Taemin to the less crowded area, towards a deserted alley where people rarely go there.
“Where’s Minho?”
“He’s not here.” The teen turned to face Taemin, stating the obvious.
“But you said he’s injured and-“
“I didn’t say I’d bring you to him.”
Two pairs of arms seized each of Taemin’s hands, pinning them on his back. Taemin let out a yelp as one of them kicked his joints to make him kneel on the ground.
“Our apologies, Your Majesty.” The teen ridiculed. “It’s really rude that we are speaking to you without introducing ourselves.”
Taemin gulped in fear. He was mentally chanting, calling for Minho as if the latter was some sort of mind reader. Too bad this is not Twilight and Minho isn’t Edward Cullen.
“W-What do you want from me?” Taemin asked, trying to sound brave but the shiver in his tone proved otherwise.
“We want you to stay with us for tonight, Dear Prince.” The one holding his right arm snarled.
Taemin was not that dense. He understood what this meant.
This group of people wanted to destroy the tradition; the friendship between the two kingdoms. If Taemin didn’t turn up for the ball tonight, one of the two princesses will have no escort and that would seem like the Princes were being rude and disinterested. The neighboring kingdom might get offended and break ties with them.
Taemin was about to say something when the pressure around his arms loosens - he was freed. In a flash he realized that the two men holding him and the teen who led him here were all lying unconscious on the ground.
“Are you all right?” Minho panted as he tugged Taemin to him. “Did they hurt you? I’m sorry for being late.”
Minho was perspiring badly and his arm was bleeding. Taemin was still speechless as he stared - gaped - at Minho. What just happened?
“Taemin?” Minho furrowed his brows in worry. He cupped his cheek using his uninjured arm. “Prince?”
“M-Minho?” Taemin blinked. He then caught sight of the red stain on Minho’s sleeve. “Where were you- you’re injured!”
“That’s not important.” Minho gritted his teeth - it was apparent that he was in pain. “Are you injured?”
Taemin’s heart warmed. Minho was more concerned about his well being than himself. “I’m okay.”
“Good. We need to get out of here and find somewhere safe. They are still after you.”
They both ventured deeper into branches of alleys. Blood was still gushing out of Minho’s wound but the assistant refused to stop to allow Taemin to treat his injury. It was only after they made a turn into a dead-end that they both halted.
Minho knew this place very well. Everything was still the same - the crack on the wall, the surrounding… It was as if time froze in here.
“Let’s go.” He pulled Taemin’s sleeve, going into the hiding where he spent his childhood with Jonghyun and Yoonhae.
-*-
“Where is Taemin and Minho?” Jinki whispered to Yoonhae. They were all inside the dining room - Princess Sulli, Prince Onew, Key and his (self-proclaimed) escort, Jonghyun, and Yoonhae. But there was an empty chair - Taemin wasn’t back.
“I’ve asked the guards, they are not back yet, Your Majesty.” Yoonhae replied in a whisper.
“Is everything all right, Jinki oppa?” Sulli asked, her tone concerned. Key made a gagging face at Jonghyun, who simply coughed to hide his laughter. Yoonhae cleared her throat and straightened up her posture.
“No, everything is all right. Let’s eat.” Jinki waved awkwardly at Krystal, who was standing at the corner of the room waiting for the signal when she could start bringing the lunch in.
Yoonhae and Jonghyun exchanged gazes as the royalties ate (they both were not eating because the table is only set for the princes and princess, it’s rude to join in their meal), worrying about Minho and Taemin’s whereabouts.
Yoonhae caught Jonghyun’s lips moving and lip-read him.
If they are not back by sunset, I’ll go look for them.
She nodded slightly before replying him. I hope everything will be fine.
-*-
It was half past two and Yoonhae was getting very, very anxious. Jinki seemed to be really distracted too - even though he covered it well as he guided Princess Sulli around the castle, his anxiety was apparent from how he always glances at the castle gate’s direction.
Taemin had said that he would come back before lunch. He was a man of his words - so why was he late?
Jonghyun had taken the liberty to ask the castle guards to tighten their security. He was considering getting out of the castle to look for them but Key stopped him.
“It’s dangerous out there.” The diva had said.
“Omo, are you worrying about me?” Jonghyun grinned happily, “I’m so touched, Jagiya!”
“What the f- I’m not your jagiya!!” Key blushed. “I’m just saying we could ask Kyuhyun to patrol around instead! No need for you to search them single handedly!”
“That’s not a good idea. The villagers might realize something is wrong and start to panic.” Jonghyun shook his head.
“Ugh, whatever.” Key huffed and followed Jinki and Sulli (and by follow, meaning he was around three meters behind them). “I’m just worried that he won’t make it on time for the ball. We need two princes to attend the ball so that both princesses have escorts!”
“Why don’t you consider being a prince then?” Jonghyun suggested with a raised eyebrow.
Key kept silent. Jonghyun was about to apologize when he noticed Key’s furrowed eyebrows. It seemed that he was weighing the consequences, but the raptor didn’t push it anymore. He knew that if the situation were critical, Key wouldn’t bear to not do anything and let the kingdoms fall.
What a responsible person. Jonghyun shrugged. He totally fits the criteria to be a good prince.
“Yoonhae?” Jinki called, but as he turned back he realized his assistant was nowhere to be found. He stopped in his tracks and stared at Jonghyun and Key.
“She went to the guard’s house.” Key informed him casually.
“Oh. Okay.” Jinki nodded.
“Are you sure everything is fine?” Sulli reconfirmed.
“Yeah. Not to worry.” Jinki reassured. “What time will Princess Victoria be here?”
“She said she’d be here by sunset. Before the ball.” Princess Sulli answered sweetly - Key made another gagging face.
“Hm, okay.” Jinki took Sulli’s hand again. “Let’s bring you to your room so you can rest before tonight’s party.”
“Oh but I want to walk around some more!” Sulli pouted. Jinki seemed astonished - Key could tell his cousin wanted some Sulli-free time so he could discuss about Taemin’s disappearance, so the almighty diva came to the rescue.
“We need to beautify the castle for the ball tonight, so it’ll be better if you take some good rest.” Key spoke in a tone that could only be described, as alluring, but Jonghyun couldn’t help detecting some sarcasm in it, “The ball tonight is going to be the best thing you ever attended to - I promise - but there are lots of preparation needed. I hope you understand… Milady?”
Sulli innocently nodded and chuckled, “Okay then… I guess.”
Jinki let out an inaudible relieved sigh as he led her to one of the guest rooms. Key stretched his arms and tailed behind them again.
-*-
By the time Jinki could sink himself on his comfortable sofa in his bedroom, it was almost four in the afternoon and there was still no news of Taemin and Minho.
“I have asked Kyuhyun and his men to search around the town on foot - it’ll be too obvious to ask him travel with horses.” Yoonhae informed him. “They set out an hour ago but there are still no news.”
“Are you freaking kidding me?!” Jinki ruffled his own hair in frustration, “This isn’t funny!”
Yoonhae bit her lower lip - she could tell Jinki was frustrated thinking about the ball tonight and at the same time, dead worried about Taemin’s well being. A lot of things can happen out there - like when Jinki was out with Yoonhae in the past. What if someone kidnapped Taemin?
“Minho is a strong person. Taemin will be fine.” Jonghyun casually remarked. Yoonhae could only nod in response.
“But still.” Jinki sighed.
Key watched the whole scene nervously before he stood up.
“What time will the ball be starting?” Key clarified.
“I’ll be waiting for Princess Victoria at the foyer by five thirty. Taemin is supposed to fetch Princess Sulli from her room by five forty five.”
“Okay. So I have roughly an hour plus to get ready.” Key stood up. “I’ll take over Taemin if he’s not back by then. Don’t think too much, hyung. Let’s go, dino, you need to help me dress up!”
“As you wish, my darling!”
“I’m-not-your-darling!”
They both exited Jinki’s bedroom, leaving Jinki alone with Yoonhae.
The assistant placed a comforting arm on the prince’s shoulder.
“Your Highness, it’ll be okay.” Yoonhae tried to calm Jinki down, but her heart was beating furiously against her ribcage as well, “I’m sure Prince Taemin will be fine.” And I hope Minho will be fine too.
Jinki didn’t reply verbally. Instead, he took Yoonhae’s hand and stood up, facing his assistant.
“You have no idea how much I wish I was escorting you instead of any princesses later on.” Jinki murmured as he took a step forward - and to Yoonhae’s surprise - placed his head on his assistant’s shoulder.
“Let me rest for a few minutes.” He mumbled again, his left hand wrapped around Yoonhae’s waist as his right hand moved to intertwine their fingers.
Yoonhae froze on her spot, not knowing what to do. Her heart was still furiously beating, but it wasn’t because of anxiety nor fear anymore.
-*-
Taemin’s hands were shaky as he bandaged Minho’s arm. He had never seen so much blood before - this was a first - and his heart ached so much from the knowledge that it was Minho’s blood.
“How did you get injured?” Taemin asked, voice quivery.
“I’m sorry to scare you. It’s just a small scratch.” Minho tried to comfort the scared prince.
Of course it wasn’t a small scratch at all. The wound was enough to make Minho’s lips turn pale and Taemin could feel Minho’s slightly warm temperature. The young prince found some pills to aid lack of blood inside the first aid box and gave two to Minho.
“What is this place anyway?”
The place was not exactly clean after being abandoned for almost seven years now, but Taemin could feel a cozy aura throughout. There was a broken table in the middle of the room with three chairs surrounding it and a few pictures hanging on the cracked wall. The roof was not even fully sheltering them, but through the holes they could see the sky and Taemin thinks that it must be beautiful to see the stars from here during nighttime.
“This is where we lived last time.” Minho replied, “Jonghyun hyung, Yoonhae noona and I.”
“!!! You guys lived together? How fun!” Taemin squealed. “I always wondered how does it feel to live with your friends.”
“Yeah. It was really fun.” Minho chuckled as he ruffled Taemin’s hair. “But it’s fun living with you too.”
(Flashback)
“You look like a frog.”
Minho glared at the young girl standing in front of him. She gave him a wide smile in return.
“Mind your own business.”
“Why are you so cold? I’m just being friendly.”
Minho was about to retort but his hunger was making his stomach lurch. He fell on his knees clutching his stomach.
“Are you okay? Here, have some rice balls.” She took out a container with three rice balls and put it in front of Minho. Being the hungry person Minho was, he immediately gobbled the food down.
“Easy there.” She chuckled at his action. “My name is Yoonhae, I’m 8. And you?”
“Minho, 7.”
“Why are you here, Minho? Don’t you have a family?”
Minho stared at her blankly. “I don’t know.”
“What do you mean you don’t know?”
“I can’t remember anything.” Minho admitted. “When I woke up, I was all alone and no one knows who I am. The only thing I know was my name, it says so on here.”
Minho showed a bracelet around his arm to Yoonhae. The word Minho was carved into it.
“I see.” Yoonhae nodded. “Then do you want to live with me?”
“Why are you being nice to me?” Minho narrowed his eyes.
“Let’s just say we’re fated to meet.” Yoonhae shrugged. “Let’s go. Jjong is waiting.”
“Jjong?”
“My best friend, Jonghyun. You’ll see him later. He’s a genius.” Yoonhae giggled as he grabbed Minho’s wrist. “Let’s go home, Minho!”
(End of Flashback)
Taemin seemed really interested at the story of Minho’s past. He unconsciously sat closer towards his assistant and prompted him to say more.
“Is this the bracelet?” Taemin asked as he noticed a silver chain around Minho’s hand.
“No, the bracelet I wore back then was long spoilt and gone.” Minho panted a little, his vision was starting to blur. “This is a new bracelet that Yoonhae noona gave me as a replacement.”
(Flashback - two years after Minho lived with Yoonhae and Jonghyun)
It was a windy day. Yoonhae and Minho were sparring at the backyard of their ‘house’ while Jonghyun was doing some weird ‘experiment’ again.
“Focus, Minho!” Yoonhae shouted as she threw a kick towards his head.
Minho blocked the kick swiftly and charged forward, punching Yoonhae’s stomach. The older girl winces a little before jumping back.
“That’s good, you’re improving.” She complimented. “I think we should end it here for the day.”
“Great you both are done. Lunch time!” Jonghyun beamed as he brought three bowls of soup and a plate of breads, settling them on the floor.
“Remind me why you don’t have to train like us, hyung.” Minho grumbled as he sat down.
“Well, because I have areas I’m better in.” Jonghyun shrugged. “It’s not my fault that my brain is better than my fists. Not that I’m saying that you both are strong and dumb, okay.”
“You talk like I didn’t catch you practicing some moves when Minho is asleep, Jjong.” Yoonhae teased as she took the spoons and gave one to Minho.
“Moves? What moves?” Jonghyun rolled his eyes.
“Look who’s the dumb one now.”
The three of them picked up the basics skills to survive - cooking, fighting, and things like that. Jonghyun was gifted because he was a genius - his hands can create weapons and fix things. He can probably create some drugs or medicine too - but he just didn’t bother to try. Yoonhae had told Minho that she found Jonghyun all alone in the midst of charcoals of a burnt orphanage one day and they both decided to find a place to live in - that’s how they found this place.
“We’re running low on breads.” Jonghyun announced. “I’m gonna go steal some later.”
“Sure you don’t want me to go?” Yoonhae asked.
“You’re a female. No, I don’t want you to go.” Jonghyun munched on his share of food. “What’s wrong, Minho?”
“The clutch is spoilt, I think.” Minho was fumbling on his bracelet. “Well it’s kind of rusty and all…”
“Do you want me to have a look at it? May be I can fix it.” Jonghyun suggested.
“May be later, since you’ll be busy this afternoon.”
“Alright then.”
The afternoon passed just like that - after they finished their meals, Jonghyun immediately left home to find breads to steal. It was a close call because he was discovered and chased by lots of townspeople - that’s when Minho came to the rescue.
As he heaved Jonghyun’s arm through the crack on the wall so they could escape, his bracelet snapped and fell onto the ground. Minho and Jonghyun didn’t notice anything but continued running, caring more about their lives.
(End of Flashback)
“Why are you crying, Prince Taemin?” Minho was shocked as he saw tears building in Taemin’s eyes.
“Uh. No, it’s just.” Taemin blinked his tears away. “I can’t believe you were going through such a tough time at such a young age. Living alone not knowing who you are… And having to steal breads and starve… I never experienced that and I think it’s just so…”
Minho gathered him into a hug and soothed him.
“It was not that bad, really.” Minho rubbed Taemin’s back. “I had friends with me so it was bearable.”
“I just… I can’t imagine if one day everyone leaves me and I don’t remember a thing.” Taemin choked.
“That will never happen.” Minho spoke firmly, pulling away slightly to face Taemin. “I will not forget you no matter what happens.”
“I won’t walk away from you, not now. Not ever.” Minho tightened his hold on Taemin’s wrist. The young prince was about to say something but Minho placed a chaste kiss on his lips.
“I love you, Your Majesty.” Minho gazed at Taemin lovingly. “I know it’s really stupid for someone like me to love someone so perfect and flawless like you, and we can probably never be together. But I don’t know what will happen after this and I don’t want to die not being to let you know how I feel.”
“Don’t say such thing, we won’t die.” Taemin pouted. “And call me T-A-E-M-I-N!”
Minho chortled. “I just confessed to you and that’s all you can say?”
Taemin blushed again and nuzzled his head at the crook of Minho’s neck.
“I love you too. Stay with me.”
Minho let out a low grunt in agreement before closing his eyes. Really, everything around him was spinning from sometime ago. The wound on his hand was really stinging - that’s right, the stupid guy who injured him was talking about poisoned blade, right? Taemin’s skin felt really good and cooling against his.
“Minho?”
He wanted to reply, but couldn’t find his voice. He mentally chanted for himself to wake up - he needed to protect Taemin, but instead he fell deeper into the darkness.
“Minho! Minho! Open your eyes!”