He walked into the room with a confidence that was as seductive as it was commanding, every glance a promise and every step a challenge to those who dared to underestimate him.

Everyone stood up to greet the walking Greek god who swayed his hips like waves of river dancing on the hypnotic rhythm.

"Greetings to prince Jihoon. What brings you here, my Lord? " Asked Yongjae with gritted teeth because he loathed the prince from his heart.

Jihoon looked at him for a moment, their eyes locking together for a second as he scanned the latter with his piercing glare before nodding.

"Can't I just visit my neighbouring kingdom? Seems like I'm troubling you. I'm here to greet our king after hearing the news of his return.,"

He said, his lips stretching into a small yet provident smirk.

"Well, we've not announced it officially yet. Only a few of us know about it but it s—"

"Huh? Are you accusing me now? I am wellwisher of Silia so this good news can't be hidden from me. I've my own ways, you know, "

Youngjae scoffed before nodding.

"Hmm.. Welcome to Silia then I guess. The king is in his chamber and we're told not to disturb him. You should have some rest them, "

Before Jihoon could get a chance to butt in, the soldier immediately guided him towards one of the guest rooms, ordering the maids to take care of the Royal guest properly.

After that he immediately ran towards the King's chamber, slightly knocking on the door as he heard a sound from inside, asking him to come inside.

He carefully went inside to see that Taehyung was sleeping in Jimin's lap while the other was busy in caressing his head, his eyes puffy and red as if he cried a lot.

Jimin looked at him with a scowl, "You knew all along, right? ", he questioned to which youngjae nodded while hanging his head low.

" It was an order so I can't go against it, my majesty. " He replied with a small smile, his eyes finding satisfaction at the sight of the two lovers in each other's arms, laying peacefully as ever.

Jimin however nodded, not having anything to hold a grudge against.

"My majesty, I'm here to warn you about something, " Youngjae said in a secretive tone to which Jimin made a confused face before slowly removing his husband's head from his lap and commanded the latter to follow him to their indoor lake.

_______

Prince Jihoon stood by the window, his silhouette illuminated by the moonlight streaming into the grand hall. The ornate carvings on the walls seemed to come alive in the soft glow, adding an air of mystique to the room. The heavy doors creaked open, and a Royal worker from the neighboring kingdom stepped in, his expression a mask of thinly veiled contempt.

"Ah, Youngjae," Jihoon purred, turning with a slow, deliberate grace. "What a pleasant surprise. I wasn't expecting you to accompany your king on this visit."

Well it was true that the soldier indeed wasn't a resident of Silia. He only joined the King's troop when the king was supposedly killed by Namjoon.

He eyes narrowed, his lips curling into a sneer. "Your expectations have never aligned with reality, Jihoon. Or should I call you Prince Jihoon now?"

Jihoon's smile didn't falter. He took a step closer, his presence as commanding as it was seductive. "Titles are mere formalities. You know that better than anyone."

The soldier's jaw tightened. "I know better than to trust a snake."

Jihoon let out a soft chuckle, the sound sending shivers down latter's spine despite his resolve. "Still holding onto the past, I see. It suits you, that bitterness. Adds a certain... edge."

"Don't you dare pretend to understand me," Youngjae snapped, his voice low but filled with venom. "You abandoned me, Jihoon. Tossed me aside like I was nothing. And if you expect me to be still mourning about it, then you're wrong. Now, you stand nowhere in my life."

Jihoon's eyes darkened, the playful glint replaced by a steely resolve. He reached out, brushing a stray lock of hair from taller male's face. Youngjae flinched but didn't pull away, the touch igniting a storm of conflicting emotions.

"You were never nothing to me, Jae," Jihoon whispered, his voice a dangerous mix of sincerity and seduction. "But I had my reasons. And now, I have a new purpose."

"To seduce my king and manipulate him to your will? Is this why you came running after hearing he is alive?" Youngjae retorted, stepping back to put distance between them. "You'll find he's not as easily swayed as you might think."

Jihoon’s lips curved into a knowing smile. "Oh, I don't doubt his resilience. But everyone has a weakness. Even kings. And I am very good at finding them."

Youngjae clenched his fists, the memories of their past and the pain of Jihoon's betrayal fueling his anger. "You may find yourself playing a dangerous game, Jihoon. One that could cost you dearly. The queen is very ruthless so I may warn you about it."

Jihoon’s gaze softened, just for a moment, a flicker of the man Youngjae once knew shining through. "Danger has always been my companion. But know this, Jae—my intentions, while complex, are not without merit. Perhaps one day, you will see that."

"Or perhaps one day, you'll face the consequences of your deceit," Youngjae shot back, turning on his heel to leave. "Don't think for a moment that I’ll allow you to hurt my king."

As the door closed behind him, Jihoon stood in silence, his expression unreadable. The seductive facade slipped for just a second, revealing a hint of something deeper—regret, or perhaps a lingering affection. But as the moonlight continued to cast its silvery glow, Jihoon’s resolve hardened once more. The game was in motion, and he intended to play it to the very end.

He had his own reasons for everything he has done or has to do.

_______

Jimin lay in his husband's arms, feeling the familiar warmth enveloping him like a protective cocoon. After almost an eternity of longing, of missing, his husband was finally back. At first, he had been overwhelmed with joy, his heart bursting with happiness and anticipation of all the plans they had made together. But now, as he lay there, the conflicting emotions swirling within him threatened to overwhelm him.

Should he revel in this moment, let himself drown in the comfort of his husband's embrace and allow their hearts to beat in perfect synchronicity? Or should he seize the opportunity to explore the newness of their reunion, to savor each precious second as if it were the last?

As Taehyung slept peacefully beside him, he couldn't help but engage in a silent conversation with himself. Was it selfish to want both? To crave the familiarity of their love while also yearning for the excitement of the unknown?

In the soft glow of the moonlight filtering through the window, Jimin found himself lost in a philosophical contemplation of love and time. Was it possible to truly hold onto a moment, to capture its essence and preserve it forever? Or were they destined to slip through his fingers like grains of sand, leaving only memories in their wake?

He tightened his grip around his husband, wanting to hold onto this moment for as long as he could. Yet, he couldn't shake the feeling of uncertainty that lingered in the depths of his soul.

With a sigh, he nestled closer to his husband, letting go of his inner turmoil and allowing himself to simply be present in the arms of the one he loved. For in the end, he knew that no matter what the future held, as long as they were together, they could weather any storm that came their way.

As Taehyung stirred awake, his eyes fluttering open to meet Jimin's gaze, he noticed the furrowed brow and the hint of sadness lingering in his husband's eyes.

"What's on your mind, love?" His voice was soft, tinged with concern as he brushed a gentle thumb across Jimin's cheek.

Jimin hesitated for a moment, unsure if he should burden Taehyung with his inner turmoil. But the love in Taehyung's eyes reassured him, urging him to open up.

"It's just... I don't know, Tae. I was so happy when you came back, but now... I'm torn between wanting to hold onto this moment forever and wanting to create new memories with you," Jimin confessed, his voice barely above a whisper.

Taehyung's laughter was like a soothing melody, warm and comforting as he pulled Jimin closer into his arms. "Oh, my sweet dove, you're just too adorable for your own good," he chuckled, pressing a soft kiss to Jimin's forehead.

"But listen, my love," He continued, his tone turning more serious yet still filled with love. "We don't have to choose between the past and the future. We can hold onto our memories tightly while also embracing the new moments that life brings us. It's like the river, you know? Always flowing, always changing, but still carrying the essence of where it's been."

Jimin looked up at Taehyung, his heart swelling with love and admiration for the man who always knew how to ease his worries. "You always know just what to say, I'm still afraid if it's just a dream," he whispered, leaning in to capture Taehyung's lips in a tender kiss for assurance.

And as they melted into each other's embrace, Jimin felt a sense of peace wash over him, knowing that as long as they were together, they could navigate the currents of life with love as their guiding light. As they gazed into each other's eyes, a soft, tender moment of romance enveloped them like a gentle breeze on a summer's night.

"You know," Jimin whispered, his voice soft and filled with love, "even after all this time, you still make my heart skip a beat."

Taehyung's smile was like sunshine breaking through the clouds, his eyes alight with adoration as he reached out to cup Jimin's cheek. "And you are making me sound like some old man. " he murmured, his voice a gentle caress, "and you make my heart sing with every smile."

Their fingers intertwined, their hearts beating in perfect harmony as they basked in the glow of their love. But amidst the sweetness of the moment, a mischievous glint sparked in Jimin's eyes, a playful grin tugging at the corners of his lips.

"Okay, I learnt something" he teased, his voice laced with mischief, "if you were a cat, you'd purr-fectly steal my heart."

Taehyung's laughter echoed through the room, a joyful symphony that filled Jimin's soul with warmth. "And if you were a star, minie," he replied, his voice filled with affection, "you'd shine brighter than all the galaxies combined."

"Will I be your star? " Jimin asked breathlessly as he couldn't get enough of staring his husband.

"You are," The older replied with the same emotions in his eyes.

"But I thought I was your moon?"

Their banter dissolved into fits of giggles, their laughter mingling with the soft murmur of the night as they reveled in the simple pleasure of each other's company.

Jimin couldn't help but feel a surge of love for the man in front of him, his heart overflowing with gratitude for the happiness Taehyung brought into his life. With a playful twinkle in his eye, he leaned in to press a tender kiss to Taehyung's lips, his heart fluttering at the softness of their connection.

And as they melted into each other's embrace, their laughter fading into the quiet stillness of the night, he knew that in Taehyung's arms, he had found not only love, but also a soulmate who cherished every moment they shared together.

______

As Prince Jihoon continued his subtle courtship of the neighboring kingdom's monarch, he found himself face to face with Jimin, the sweet yet sharp husband of the king. Jimin's presence exuded warmth and kindness, but beneath his gentle demeanor lurked a keen intellect and a razor-sharp intuition.

"Prince Jihoon, what a pleasure to finally meet you," Jimin greeted with a smile, his voice honeyed but his eyes betraying a hint of wariness.

"The pleasure is all mine, Your Majesty. I couldn't stop myself from coming here after hearing the news about the return of the king. You might be very happy," Jihoon replied smoothly, offering a respectful bow. His charm was effortless, his gaze lingering just a fraction longer than necessary.

Jimin's smile widened, though there was a flicker of suspicion in his eyes. "You're right but one can't measure my happiness. By the way, Youngjae speaks highly of you, Prince Jihoon. He mentioned your... intriguing qualities."

Jihoon's lips curved into a knowing smirk. "Ah yes, Jae and I have a history. But I assure you, my intentions here are purely diplomatic."

Jimin tilted his head slightly, studying Jihoon with a discerning gaze. "Of course, we welcome diplomatic relations with your kingdom. However, I must admit, I sense a certain... tension in the air. I hope we'll have a good time. "

The prince's facade remained unruffled, but inwardly, he noted the Queen's perceptiveness with a mix of admiration and caution. "Merely the usual politics, Your Majesty. Nothing for you to concern yourself with. Thought we might establish a good bond between our kingdoms"

Jimin's smile didn't falter, but there was a steeliness in his gaze that spoke volumes. 'Forgive me if I find that difficult to believe, Prince Jihoon. I trust my instincts, and they tell me there is more to your presence here than meets the eye.' He wanted to say it aloud but kept it to himself.

Jihoon's gaze locked with Jimin's, a silent battle of wills unfolding between them. "Your instincts serve you well, Your Majesty. But rest assured, I am here to ensure the prosperity and security of both our kingdoms."

This shocked the queen because how could he read his thoughts. He looked at the prince who gave him a smile.

To which he smiled back, his smile softened gradually, but his eyes remained guarded. "I appreciate your assurance, Prince Jihoon. However, I will be keeping a close eye on you. I trust you understand."

"Of course, Your Majesty," Jihoon replied smoothly, masking his unease with practiced charm. "I welcome your scrutiny."

As Jimin excused himself, Jihoon couldn't shake the feeling of being under Jimin's watchful gaze. The sweetness in Jimin's demeanor was tempered by a sharpness that Jihoon found both alluring and unsettling. It seemed he would have to tread carefully if he hoped to navigate the intricate web of intrigue surrounding the royal court, where sweetness could easily mask danger, and charm could conceal treachery.

_______

As Jimin took his leave, he couldn't help but wonder that if youngjae told him the half truth. The prince was acting challenging to him as if they were to be in a race.

"It's so weird.... There's nothing which he wants which happens to be my choice too, "

He mumbled to himself as he walked mindlessly into his room. Of course, the soldier just told him about how sick the prince was and how his personality was but he didn't tell him the whole matter.

His life was finally being peaceful but then this prince's entry was making him groan at his fate. He just wanted to be with husband and kingdom peacefully.

Suddenly a hand pulled him closer, pressing him against the wall which made him gasp with surprise. He would have screamed or attacked if he didn't know it was his husband. Luckily, he had this idea that only Taehyung does things like this.

"You say you miss me yet you keep leaving me here, " Taehyung said with his deep voice, his lips brushing against Jimin's ear while his one hand slipped inside Jimin's clothes, disappearing inside it completely.

Is he needy? That's what the poor male thought as his husband continued to roam his hands sensually.

It's been long time. Jimin thought again and it immediately made him blush at the memories. It's been a really long time and he knows that this time, he'll cry whole heartedly because he has missed each inch of Taehyung's existence really badly.

"My majesty... " He trailed off, his voice trembling with excitement and thrill yet the shyness remained tact, coating right over his cheeks.

Taehyung hummed, his touch was both tender and electrifying, a powerful promise of love that set her soul ablaze, making Jimin feel invincible in his embrace.

"I want to announce my return tonight,"

He said while removing his hands from his husband's sinful body which was twitching and reacting like a virgin would do. It was really ironical because Jimin was the farthest from being virgin because his husband didn't leave a chance to make his hole gasp like some loose sack in past, always open and welcoming for Taehyung, ready to hide a piece of the older inside his body.

"Sure, " Jimin nodded, his eyes hooded as he looked here and there, trying to get rid of his blushing cheeks. He didn't know why he was acting so shy as if they both were newly weds because they were the filthiest couple alive ever, always at it, searching little reasons for being in bed together. Their life has always been dirty and hot. So, he was surprised at himself.

"I want to take you to on a tour to the island where I survived. I want to add it up in our territory and make a palace for us for vacation."

Jimin again nodded. "When? "

"After appa returns from Elino, we'll pay a visit to hyung and fix his marriage with Jungkook. Then, we'll continue our journey to the islands," Taehyung responded to which Jimin nodded excitedly.

He got so many good news in one single statement. His in laws would return and meet their son, after all they've went through the pain of losing their son. Then Jungkook will finally get his love.

And last but not the least, he'll get to spend alone time with the older. He couldn't just wait for it.

Do check out a new oneshot book I published. It has regular updates.

Words— 3K+
Date- 26th May 24