The morning sun bathed the royal gardens in a golden glow, its light filtering through the tall trees and casting intricate patterns on the cobblestone paths. The air was crisp, carrying the faint fragrance of blooming roses and jasmine. Birds chirped melodiously, their songs adding a serene soundtrack to the tranquil scene. Daehan followed Youngjae in silence, his heart still fluttering from the prince's earlier declarations and actions.

They strolled together, the towering hedges and vibrant flowerbeds providing a sense of privacy as if the rest of the world didn't exist. Youngjae's grip on Daehan's hand was firm yet gentle, his thumb occasionally brushing against Daehan's skin, sending shivers down his spine. Daehan's eyes wandered, taking in the beauty of the garden, and then stopped when they landed on something...a swing set nestled beneath a large cherry blossom tree, its pink petals falling gracefully like soft snow.

Youngjae noticed Daehan's sudden hesitation and followed his gaze. "What is it?" he asked, his voice softer now, almost tender.

Daehan shook his head, attempting to brush it off. But Youngjae stepped in front of him, his piercing gaze demanding honesty.

"Tell me," he urged gently, a hint of curiosity in his tone.

Daehan's hands fidgeted as he gestured hesitantly, "It's nothing. I just... I've never ridden a swing before. My father... he thought it was frivolous and made sure I... well, I never had the chance." His cheeks flushed, embarrassed by the admission.

Youngjae's expression softened, a flicker of something deeper crossing his eyes. Without a word, he turned and walked toward the swing. Daehan watched, puzzled, as Youngjae grabbed one of the ropes and tested its sturdiness. Then, with a slight smile, he gestured for Daehan to come closer.

"Sit," Youngjae commanded, his tone leaving no room for argument.

Daehan's eyes widened. He began his silent protest, but Youngjae cut him off with a raised hand.

"You said you've never ridden a swing. Well, today you will," Youngjae said firmly, his smirk playful yet earnest. "I won't take no for an answer."

Hesitantly, Daehan stepped forward and sat down on the swing, gripping the ropes tightly. The smooth wood felt cool beneath his palms. His heart pounded as he glanced over his shoulder at Youngjae, who was standing behind him, his hands on the ropes.

"Ready?" Youngjae asked, leaning closer so that Daehan could feel the warmth of his breath against his ear.

Daehan nodded, his lips curving into a shy smile.

With a gentle push, Youngjae set the swing in motion. Daehan's initial apprehension melted away as he felt the wind rush past him, lifting his spirits with each sway. He giggled softly, the sound pure and unrestrained, a melody Youngjae found utterly captivating.

"Higher?" Youngjae asked, his voice filled with amusement.

Daehan glanced back at him, his eyes sparkling as he nodded.

Youngjae's grin widened as he pushed the swing harder, sending Daehan soaring higher into the air. The cherry blossom petals danced around them, caught in the breeze, creating a magical aura. Daehan closed his eyes, savoring the sensation of freedom he had never experienced before. For the first time in years, he felt like the weight of his past had momentarily lifted.

When the swing began to slow, Youngjae moved to stand in front of Daehan, his gaze warm and intense. "How was it?" he asked softly.

Daehan's cheeks were flushed from the exhilaration. "It was wonderful," he gestured, his smile radiant. "Thank you, Your Highness. Truly."

Youngjae reached out, brushing a stray petal from Daehan's hair. His fingers lingered for a moment, his touch sending a jolt of electricity through Daehan's body. "You're more beautiful when you're happy," Youngjae murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.

Daehan's breath hitched, his heart pounding as their eyes locked. The air between them grew charged, the world around them fading into the background. Youngjae took a step closer, his hand still resting lightly on Daehan's hair.

"You deserve moments like this," Youngjae said, his tone filled with sincerity. "And I'll make sure you have many more."

Daehan felt his eyes sting with unshed tears, overwhelmed by the prince's kindness. Before he could respond, Youngjae leaned in, his lips brushing softly against Daehan's forehead. The gesture was tender, yet it sent a surge of warmth through Daehan, leaving him breathless.

"Let's continue walking," Youngjae said, his voice now light and casual as if he hadn't just turned Daehan's world upside down. He held out his hand, waiting patiently for Daehan to take it.

After a brief hesitation, Daehan placed his hand in Youngjae's, allowing the prince to pull him to his feet. Together, they resumed their stroll through the garden, their hands intertwined. However, the gentle rustling of leaves was soon accompanied by a soft pattering sound as the first drops of rain fell. Daehan glanced up, his brows knitting together in mild concern as the drizzle began to thicken. Youngjae noticed and chuckled softly.

"Come on," he said, his grip on Daehan's hand tightening as he led him toward a large oak tree nearby. Its sprawling canopy provided enough shelter from the sudden shower. The air grew cooler, carrying the earthy scent of rain-soaked soil and blossoms.

They stood under the tree, their shoulders brushing as they watched the rain blur the garden into a watercolor painting. The world felt quieter, the gentle rhythm of the rain adding to the intimacy of the moment.

"You're trembling," Youngjae said, his voice low. He turned to face Daehan, his eyes searching. "Are you cold?"

Daehan shook his head, but the truth was evident in the faint shiver that ran through him. Youngjae stepped closer, his hands reaching up to cup Daehan's cheeks. His touch was warm, his thumbs brushing softly against Daehan's skin.

"Better?" Youngjae asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

Daehan nodded, his breath hitching at the proximity. His gaze flickered from Youngjae's eyes to his lips and back again, a silent question lingering in the space between them.

Youngjae's lips curved into a tender smile as if he'd read Daehan's mind. "May I?" he murmured, his tone gentle yet filled with desire.

Daehan's heart raced, his cheeks flushing. He gave the faintest nod, his trust and yearning evident in his gaze.

Youngjae leaned in slowly, giving Daehan the chance to pull away if he wished. But Daehan remained still, his eyes fluttering shut as Youngjae's lips finally met his. The kiss was soft at first, exploratory as if Youngjae were savoring the taste of something he'd craved for so long.

Daehan responded hesitantly at first, unsure but eager, his hands instinctively clutching Youngjae's sleeves. The world around them seemed to dissolve completely, the rain and the garden fading into the background. It was just them, wrapped in the warmth of each other.

The kiss deepened, growing more passionate as Youngjae's hands slid from Daehan's face to his waist, pulling him closer. Daehan's fingers tangled in Youngjae's robes, holding on as if afraid to let go. The prince's lips moved with a confident intensity, coaxing Daehan to lose himself in the moment.

When they finally pulled apart, both were breathless, their foreheads resting against each other's. Daehan's eyes were wide, his cheeks flushed, and his lips slightly swollen. Youngjae chuckled softly, his voice thick with emotion.

"You're so beautiful when you blush," Youngjae murmured, his gaze locked on Daehan's flushed face, searching for any hint of doubt. But there was none...only the soft glow of bashfulness in Daehan's expression.

Daehan's lips curled into a shy smile as he nervously fidgeted with the edge of Youngjae's sleeve, his gaze lifting to meet the prince's through his lashes.

Youngjae's grin widened, mischief twinkling in his eyes as his thumb traced the gentle curve of Daehan's cheek. "Are you trying to seduce me, Hanie?" he teased, his voice low and playful.

Daehan's eyes flew open in surprise, the nickname making his blush deepen furiously. Flustered, he covered his face with his hands and darted away.

Youngjae let out a rich, melodious laugh, his heart warm with affection as he watched Daehan's retreating figure. Without hesitation, he followed, his voice carrying through the drizzle, "Pretty flower, don't run from me~ If I catch you, I'll kiss you senseless!"

Daehan let out a soft giggle, the sound carried by the rain as he ran across the garden and into the palace corridors. The light patter of rain followed him, his robes swaying with every hurried step.

Youngjae trailed behind, taking his time, his lips curling in amusement as he watched Daehan's carefree dash. "You can't escape me, Hanie," he called, his voice laced with playful promise.

Daehan's laughter bubbled up again, echoing in the quiet corridors until he abruptly collided with someone. Startled, he stepped back and looked up to see Princess Jiyoon staring down at him, her expression icy and composed.

"My, my... the consort of elegance behaving so inelegantly," she remarked coolly, her gaze sharp as she took in Daehan's disheveled state. "Running through the halls like a common servant...what a sight."

Before Daehan could apologise, Youngjae's voice rang out, drawing nearer. "Where did you go, my pretty flower?" he called, his tone light and teasing, the nickname rolling off his tongue effortlessly.

Jiyoon's eyes widened slightly, jealousy flashing in their depths as she heard the prince's words.

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