#Peachysooxo fanfics

[sooinbloom]

Hi there! I really love your work! Thank you for working so hard to create an amazing fanfic for us 🫶🏻. I have a request for you. Since I'm a typical person who finds comfort in angst stories, could you please write an angst story about Kyungsoo based on his song 'The View'? Thank you very much!

Answer: when I got this request I literally SCREAMED. Thank you @sooadorable for the request! I have been writing a series and wondered how I could introduce it, and this is the best way because it lines up with the story perfectly! I hope you enjoy this, thank you so much for the request and all of your support! Dividers by @saradika-graphics

The View

genre: angst, drama, Kyungsoo!AU, EXO!AU, romance

word count: 2,011

theme: marriage in trouble, lovers to enemies, separation, impending divorce, broken heart

warnings: use of alcohol, cursing, mentions of self harm, implied smut, sad kyungsoo, depressed kyungsoo

summary: Kyungsoo is separated from his wife and finds comfort in a bottle of Tennessee Whiskey and old home movies as he tries to figure out what to do with the divorce papers he was served. Based off of his song, “The View”.

I stare out into the vast open sky from my living room floor, the sunset paints beautiful colors that canvas the atmosphere above the rolling waves of the Pacific Ocean. I can get lost in moments like this, the times where my head is completely clear and I take in everything around me.

Slowly, effortlessly, the yellows become the golden flecks in her gorgeous eyes. The wind is her touch, soft and sends chills down my spine. The reds are her lips when she gets ready for date nights, putting on lipstick just for me. Even though she didn’t need it, she looked so spectacular in that shade of red. The waves are the promises we made, consistently rolling back to me to remind me that I failed to keep so many. Being here in this kind of scene just isn’t the same without her.

I watched my wife, Mila, walk out of the door and never turn back due to my own stupidity. I haven’t slept well since she left. I haven’t been able to eat on some days. Nothing in my life feels right anymore.

Our vacation home in Malibu looks out onto the shore, for the times we needed to get away from it all and spend time together. Tonight is my last night here before I have to fly back to New York to finish my album and I wish I could stay here longer. It’s the closest thing that I have to being with her.

Everywhere I turn, there’s pieces of Mila in every single thing. She’s in the clouds, the wind, the moon that grows brighter and brighter by the second. The last six months have been hell without her.

Watching old videos of us together has to be a form of self harm, but this is the only way I can see her smile. My eyes are glued to the screen as memories play out from different points in our relationship. From moving in to our first apartment together after we got married. From traveling to Korea to see my family. Waking up in Spain on our European tour together to staying up late in the studio to our honeymoon. I’ve replayed the honeymoon videos over and over, mesmerized as the events play out on screen. We were so young, Mila was 20 and I was 22. I need to be honest with myself, it wasn’t a honeymoon… It was our elopement at Mila’s grandparent’s ranch in Mexico. We stayed in the guest house on the ranch, and it was the happiest we’d ever been.

"Come here." My voice whines from the TV.

"No! Why are you recording us? It’s so weird!" Mila giggles. I grab the phone and the focus is Mila sitting with her leg tucked under her with cheeks tinted pink.

"Look at you, Angel." I breathe, calling her by her nickname. “You’re so gorgeous and you just woke up.”

“Soo!” Mila blushes. She tries to cover her face but I won’t let her.

“Don’t hide your gorgeous face from me.”

The engagement ring and wedding band on her left hand glimmers on screen. The rays of morning light filter into the room and it can’t even compare to her smile. She didn’t need to try at all, she just naturally glowed. I love it when she’s this way, no makeup, hair down and only wearing my t shirt.

I pull Mila by her waist into the frame and kiss her, my arm protectively still around her. I tease her by tracing her lips with mine and smile between kisses, placing her into my lap. I lean and prop the phone on the bedside table and we're in full view on the bed. Mila’s hands run through my hair, something she did when we’d be intimate like this. Her smile fades as she wraps her arms around my neck.

“Soo… I’m worried. I’m scared that us running off and getting married is going to make things worse with my father and brother.” Mila expresses. I press my forehead against hers, holding her tight in my arms.

"Listen to me. No matter what happens, my heart is yours. Angel, we’re married. Nothing can separate us. Not Sungho, not Chanyeol, no one. I know that we both took a risk when we didn’t tell Chanyeol that we were just dating. He’s your brother and my best friend. I can’t imagine how hard it was for you to keep that from your brother. You’re everything to me, my best friend, my life. All I care about is that you’re happy with this decision. They’ll come around, we just have to give it time.” I say lowly.

Mila nods her head, her hands glide down my shoulder to my forearms.

“I hope Chanyeol will come around, him and I are close and I never expected he’d react in the way he did. With my father… He may take longer but it’ll be okay. I’m beyond happy. This feels so right, yeobo.” Mila smiles again, and it’s a personal victory that she’s glowing again. “I just… Don’t know how I feel about you filming us in bed. It’s kind of…”

“Jagiya, stop. This is for our memories. This is our honeymoon. I had to document just how gorgeous you are when you wake up in the morning. You make the world around you envious.” I whisper, caressing her face.

"This is like a dream. I don’t want to go back to reality.” Our eye contact is strong, it never deviates from one another. I run my fingers through her hair and cup her face in my hands.

We fall into a deep kiss, molding ourselves to each other. We break slowly and a fire is ablaze in her eyes, full of want. She pushes me down onto the bed, I roll over until I’m on top of her.

“Look at me, Angel.” I straighten her gaze back to me by guiding her jaw back to face me. I lean down and kiss her velvety soft lips, my hand slides down to her throat. Her soft whimpers fill the room as my lips roam her jaw and down her neck. I stop at her shoulder and smirk into the camera.

“Mila, you’ll never forget this.” I say into the camera and nip her collarbone. She shrieks and holds onto me tighter. Before we go further, Mila grabs the phone and laughs.

“Nice try, Mr. Doh.”

We laugh and she cuddles into me, stopping the recording. I turn the TV off. Seeing my wife smile like that is something I haven’t seen in a long time. Tears threaten my eyes as the moon glows brighter. I can’t even remember when I started drinking or how I got halfway done with my bottle of Tennessee Whiskey. Now there’s nothing left but reminders that she’s not mine anymore. I shouldn’t have been working so much, prioritizing everything else over her, or even worse… I shouldn’t have been such a jealous monster. Being young and stupid, I’d bubble over with jealousy if a man just as much as gazed at her.

To be fair, Mila is a beautiful woman inside and out. She’s so selfless, humble and never afraid to be herself. Mila is known around the world for her music, to say she’s talented is an understatement. Watching her onstage is like a dream, she bursts to life when she performs. The entire world gets to see the woman that I am so proud to call her my wife.

Her physical beauty is just a bonus. Her sun kissed skin seems to glow, her plump lips framed her adorable smile perfectly, I could lose myself in her gorgeous eyes if I could. Her body is a gift from God, effortless curves that would hypnotize me the moment she’d walk into a room. She came right out of my dreams, everything about her is perfect.

It was never a secret that men pined over her and how gorgeous she is. I never checked my jealousy, something she never deserved.

I was certain every man she came across fantasized about her and wanted her the way I wanted her. I was so certain that it made me crazy. It was so bad that we started to fight all of the time and she finally had enough.

I open the sliding glass door to listen to the waves. The warmth from the whiskey offsets the cold night air, I wait for Mila’s arms to hug me into her embrace and when it doesn’t come, my heart splinters. I handled winter and spring without her, but summer reminded me how much worse it is that we’re separated. How she takes shape in the view.

“Mila… I miss you…” I whisper into the night air. The stars and moon start to sway and my vision clouds over. I rub my temples and turn my back to the ocean, glancing over at the divorce papers on the counter. I wrecked my brain relentlessly over what made Mila want a divorce. I didn’t cheat on her, I didn’t ever lay a hand on her and I didn’t lie to her or kept anything from her.

We could work on our problems easily, if she’d just allow it. Our last fight was the worst one, I can’t even remember what words were exchanged but that didn’t matter. What haunted me was that I made her cry. Something I swore I’d never do. I wanted to fix it and Mila wanted nothing to do with me.

Divorce papers.

This is not how I expected our relationship to end. I didn’t want it to end at all. I have to prove it to her that I’m going to change… Once the room stops spinning…

I stumble back and collapse onto the couch, closing my eyes to continue the memory the week we spent together on the ranch when we got married. Mila and I were in bed, cuddled up during one of our late nights. Mila’s fingers dance across my chest, her eyes heavy with fatigue.

“Promise me something, Soo.” She whispers.

“Yes, Angel?”

“Promise me that no matter what happens, we’ll never give up. We’ll never separate. Even if times get difficult, I don’t want to give up.” Mila pleads with her eyes.

“I promise you, Mila. I’ll never give up on you or us. If we somehow get lost or strained… We’ll fix it. I’ll fight for you until the very end, that’s my promise to you.” I reply, kissing her forehead.

“I’ll fight for you too. I’ll fight for us. This is different… Marriage is so different from just dating. You and I are in this together for life. I know I’m stubborn. I know I’m difficult to deal with, I’ll do better.” Mila smirks. I laugh and pin her under me, my forearms are on either side of her head.

“Your attitude is very easy to deal with. You’re a brat sometimes but it’s nothing I can’t handle.” I laugh, kissing her slowly. “But you’re mine, whether you like it or not.”

“I love it. I love you.” Mila smiles. “Our promise is sealed with a kiss, isn’t it?”

I kiss her mouth and cheeks, nodding. “Of course it is, Angel.”

The memory fades from my head. Everything she said that night resounds in my head. I can’t sit her and feel sorry for myself and drink myself to death anymore. She made me promise her that I’d fight for her, and that we’d never separate. It’s my fault she pushed away, it’s my fault she doesn’t want to be near me. I have to fight for her, I have to keep my promise.

The first thing I decided to do is not sign the papers. If Mila wants a fight, that’s what she’s going to get. I can’t take her just being a memory that I can see in the world around me. She has to see that she is my world. She’s my view.

[sooinbloom]

The Kingdom of Us

Chapter 11

pairing: kyungsoo x OFC genre: Royal!AU, nonidol!soo, crownprince!kyungsoo, romance, drama theme: arranged marriage, modern royalty, enemies to lovers, war, betrayal word count: 4,527 description: Kyungsoo and Alina are coronated as King and Queen, the war turns for the worst and Kyungsoo is forced to leave Alina by herself in a safe haven palace. warnings: mentions of violence, physical assault, war, MINORS DNI

author’s notes: hello dear reader! Here is a new chapter in Kyungsoo and Alina’s saga. Admittedly, it will be getting a bit darker and darker as we go. I can’t thank you enough for all of your likes and shares. All of your lovely comments brighten my day! I did notice that a few links to the chapters of this story don’t work on my masterlist, they should be fixed now. Photos are not mine, dividers by @saradika-graphics . Enjoy!

ALINA

We didn’t plan to become king and queen so quickly. Kyungsoo also didn’t want to make a spectacle of our Coronation, and neither did I. This time around, there was no Crown Selection Ceremony. There was no audience. It was just us, King Bonhwa, Queen Hyunae, the Doh Royal family and Lisette. The throne room felt dark, overcast filled the skies. A certain ominous force could be felt hanging in the air, it suffocated the happiness of the occasion… if there was any to begin with. Kyungsoo and I were dressed in traditional clothing and the garments were the only brightness in the room.

Hyunae was not pleased, her denunciation was almost comical. Boram was sobbing and acting like her world was ending. As Kyungsoo and I made our vow to honor the Crown, to serve the Seoul People and to honor the Doh Dynasty, we were crowned. There was no joy or honor, it felt like a duty we had to fulfill and go on about our lives. Each moment felt like still moments in frames, a mundane event. The only highlight was the way Kyungsoo held onto my hand the entire time.

I became Queen Alina the First of Seoul, Kyungsoo became King Kyungsoo the First of Seoul. It didn’t feel any different, but everyone around us made it seem like we suddenly became porcelain dolls. The Crown informed the media and the public supported us for not having a showy celebration or coronation. Its terrifying being at the mercy of a kingdom’s people. You never know what they’ll feel or say. At least we have their approval… For now. That motivated me to be much better than I ever was before.

Lisette and I share a bottle of wine in the common room chambers, laughing at the ridiculousness that was this entire mess.

“I’m literally getting drunk with the Queen of Seoul right now.” Lisette giggles with an annoyingly gaudy wine goblet in her hand.

“And I’m getting drunk with… My lady-in-waiting right now.” I smirk. I watch Lisette’s eyes practically bulge out of her head. She points at herself with a dropped jaw.

“I’m… I’m… Your lady-in-waiting?!”

“Kyungsoo and I agreed it would be best, and you’d do well in the position. And I wouldn’t want anyone else to do the job! And now… If you want to make things official with Chanyeol, you absolutely can.” I hug Lisette and she squeezes me tight.

“I won’t let you down, Alina.” Lisette grins, “this is the best night of my life!”

We finish our wine and she gets a text from Chanyeol. Her eyebrows go up and she grins at me.

“Go, go ahead. Go see your Duke Charming!” I push her toward the door, “And don’t forget a detail! Not one!”

“Thank you, Amiga!” Lisette prances out of the chambers and I laugh to myself. Minutes later, Kyungsoo stumbles into our chambers with his tie loose and red cheeks.

“Fun night?” I laugh, throwing my arms around Kyungsoo. He growls softly and grips my hips. His rum coated lips press onto mine, his soft laughs reverberating in my mouth.

“It’s much better now with you, darling.” Kyungsoo presses his lips on mine a few times, then we stumble to the couch. I fall on top of him and we just burst into laughter. “Oh, I love you. I love you, I love you, Alina. My Queen.”

“Amorcito, you’re drunk.” I laugh.

“Maybe, but I know I love you. I love you so much. You know that?” Kyungsoo grins.

“I love you too. Now come on… Let’s go to bed, we’re both drunk.” I manage to reply, practically dragging Kyungsoo to bed. It didn’t occur to me that we should change our clothes, it didn’t matter either. We stumble in bed and just laugh at this entire situation.

“Drunk on our first night on the job,” Kyungsoo mutters, resting his head on my stomach. I sloppily play with his already messed up hair, “you’re so cute when you’re drunk.”

“And you’re a very affectionate drunk.” I muse, watching Kyungsoo’s eyes start to close.

“Only with you, my darling love. Now that I’m King,” Kyungsoo hiccups, “I’ll… Give you everything you’ve ever wanted. Baby deer as pets? Yours. Empanadas every day? Done. Babies? We’ll make as many as you want. As many…”

For the first time, Kyungsoo fell asleep in my embrace. I smile and keep playing with his hair, my eyes feeling heavy. This moment is the first that we’re sharing alone as King and Queen. I cherish every single second of it. My mind wanders off to living a life with Kyungsoo in the countryside, oddly enough baby deer running around and my arms full with our first child. A child… My chest warms at the thought of babies that look like us, with Kyungsoo’s big brown eyes, his heart shaped lips, my nose, my cheeks, a beautiful mixture of our skin tones… I smile to myself and close my eyes, convinced even more that we’re going to get through this. We have to, there’s no other choice. If only this moment lasted longer, because it was the last peaceful memory him and I would share.

Within 2 months, 16 days, 14 hours and 28 minutes, everything I thought I understood about the world was turned upside down.

My home kingdom was bombed.

That bomb fell on the Valencia palace.  

My parents were thankfully in Mariposa at the time, but they could’ve died. My brothers were off fighting somewhere for the war and were at least alive. Daniel is targeting the people I love now. Ana was forced into hiding with her daughter, Freja, and all contact with her was lost. King Seth, her husband, allowed her and I to speak over a military phone but not knowing where my sister and niece were devastated me.

Now that I am queen, I have much more protection than I ever have before. Kyungsoo insisted on us leaving the palace and going to the Safe Haven palace on an island near the coast. One bomb dropped and I got hidden away, as if it would make a difference. Daniel isn’t going to stop until everything I know and love is in ashes. He’s stooping as low as attacking my family, and Maria is standing idly by with her head turned. All to keep the damn monster she insisted on marrying. My head aches despite the calm that surrounds us in the Safe Haven Palace. I’m cornered in a place where I’m supposed to feel safe and it’s all so wrong. Lisette couldn’t come with me due to the relief work that we started, and parting ways with her was another hard part of all of this. Duke Chanyeol promised to keep her safe, but I couldn’t help but worry about her. I huddle myself in the corner of mine and Kyungsoo’s bed, sobbing.

“Darling… Come here.” I hear his voice and feel his arms wrap around me. Suddenly, colors seemed bright again. Left wasn’t right anymore. Up was down, and inside wasn’t out. My thoughts came to a halt, to a welcomed silence. Kyungsoo holds me close and kisses my cheek, attempting to soothe me from the anxiety that took root in my chest. I dissolve in his hold, needing so desperately for all of this to be over.

“This is all happening because of me.” I mumble, wiping my eyes.

“Alina, no it’s…”

“Don’t try to say that it’s not! Because it is. Daniel is obsessed... He’s…”

“Alina! Enough. I refuse to hear anything like that from your mouth ever again. This isn’t because of you. Daniel needed a motive and he’s pinning it on you to make you feel exactly how you are right now. I’m not gonna stand for it. My wife isn’t going to be made to feel less than she is. You, darling, are a strong, beautiful, courageous woman. You’ve given me a lesson or two in perseverance. Don’t let that bastard do this to you anymore,” Kyungsoo’s growl gradually winds down into a soft mumble, “Focus on me. It seems I need to erase this bastard from your mind twice as hard as I did to your body.”

Kyungsoo’s lips attach to my neck and gently bring me out of the stupor I found myself in. My mind starts to turn to mush and I realize what he’s doing. I turn in his arms and push his shoulder. “Why’d you push me, darling?”

“You always have to make it so… Sensual.” I semi-grovel. I hate and love this about Kyungsoo, he knows how exactly how to distract me and that’s the problem. He distracts me. Kyungsoo slips my tank top strap down and plants more kisses along my shoulder and up my neck.

“As an order from your King, you need to relax and turn your mind off for once, Mi Reina.” Kyungsoo hisses his last two words in Valencian, and I’m putty in his hands. He smirks to himself, laying me back on the bed. “Good girl, now let me take your mind off of the world for awhile. This, darling, is the only way I know that can get you to forget.”

I can’t stand how this works every single time.

KYUNGSOO The next morning, I open my eyes and feel Alina’s head on my chest. I smirk to myself and stroke her hair that’s sprawled across her back. Having her on my chest gives me all the comfort I need. These kinds of moments have become few and far in between, so every single second that her lips fall open, her weight shifts above me, soft words fall out of her mouth… I commit it all to memory. Right now, the only thing that I was afraid of was waking her up with my phone chiming loudly at my side. I yawn and reach over to silence the ringer when my eyes fall onto the emergency alerts from both General Junmyeon and Commander Jongin.

EMERGENCY – IMMEDIATE THREAT TO HER MAJESTY, QUEEN ALINA

“No, no, no…” I mutter anxiously as I place Alina’s head on a pillow. I pace quickly to my office and do my best to stay calm, which proved to be impossible. I know what this means. I frantically send a conference video call to my military advisors, needing more than just an emergency alert: I needed the names of whoever threatened my love. “Generals, Commanders, I need names. Now.”

“Your Majesty, I’m afraid that I cannot divulge that over a video call. We have many matters to discuss, we are requesting your presence at the palace.” Commander Jongin replies with his not-so-usual dark tone. Now I know that something much more sinister than I imagined is coming for my wife.

“I didn’t ask, Commander. You need to give me every detail and you need to give it to me right now.” I demand, grit tinging my voice.

“Yes, your Majesty.” General Junmyeon intervenes, nervously bowing his head. “A message was sent to the palace. We have gone over the contents extensively, and it was from an Azteco militia group threatening the Queen’s life and safety. We sent you a copy of the letter. Your Majesty, this conversation is better had behind closed doors, this is not a secure connection.”

I receive the copy of the letter through my secure correspondence email, I scan the letter quickly and immediately feel the blood boil in my veins. I didn’t have to read all of it to get the general idea.

She is being watched

           We know her every move

We will kill Queen Alina

We will force you to watch as we…

“Alina can’t come back with me, General. Like hell she’s setting foot in Seoul. She’s staying here until I know for sure that she’s safe. What is your suggestion?”

“We will send additional military to you. Your Majesty, we need your command in person. We understand the need to keep Queen Alina safe, but this is war. Azteco is inching closer and closer to the capital. We’ve held off on commands for long enough, we need you here at your post, Your Majesty. We need our King.” General Junmyeon replies, unease in his voice.

“I clearly don’t have a choice.” I mull over the intel and grip the sides of my desk. I read the letter dozens and dozens of times, my fury building every single time I read the words from these cowards. As Alina safely slept in the room next door to me, my mind was in a thousand different places. I wasn’t going to leave until reinforcements arrive. I only wanted to give Alina happiness, but instead I’ve given her nothing but stress and a world she doesn’t belong in. I rush to the bedroom and slowly open the door, calming myself before I wake her up to tell her the news.

“Darling… Wake up...” I rub Alina’s back and she slowly lifts her head. “Good morning... Did you sleep well?”

“Yes. Mmm… You look serious. Why are you serious?” Alina sleepily comments while sitting up.

“I have to go to back to the palace. There has been a compromise to national security and I’m needed back in Seoul.” I say, Alina rubs her eyes and the sleepy pout that scrunches her face slowly fades away.  

“Are we in danger? When do we leave?” She inquires, only breaking my heart more.

I promised I wouldn’t lie to Alina, I had to be honest with her. I offer my embrace to Alina, she snuggles into my arms for warmth and comfort. “Love… Don’t panic but there were threats sent to the palace. Commander Minseok intercepted it and sent it to me. It’s not safe for you to return to the palace just yet. I have to go to build strategies to keep you protected, to win this war. I need you to stay here where I know you’re safe.”

“Kyungsoo, no. Please don’t leave me here by myself!” Alina’s eyes widen, a whine in her voice. “Please, baby, don’t…”

“Darling, I’m sorry. I have to. You won’t be alone. Lieutenants Jongdae and Sehun will be keeping you safe, and I’ll keep my eyes on you from afar.” I caress her face. Alina cries in my arms, the weight of guilt sitting on my shoulders. Leaving her was killing me but it had to be done. “Please, don’t cry. I’m doing this for you. I promise that you will be safe.”

“Is it… Him? Did he discover that I’m not at the palace? Are my parents safe? What about my brothers? My sister and niece? Why would you leave me if I was in danger?!” Alina’s sobs were uncontrollable. I knew she was terrified and that she wanted to not leave my side. I also knew I couldn’t risk her life and bring her back to Seoul. I was helpless. I was out of the control I fought so hard to create around her, for her.

“Baby… Baby please… Don’t cry. Please. No one will hurt you. I would burn this entire world to the ground if it meant you were safe. There is nothing I won’t do for you, and no wretched man will ever harm you again. I won’t allow it.”

Alina looks into my eyes, glimmers of different clashing emotions running through her gaze. I was silently begging her to trust me, I needed her to only do that for me. Blind trust was not something she had capacity for anymore. Alina bitterly nods and clings to me, her head buried in my chest. “How can you protect me if you’re away? How…”

In a fit of frustration, I direct her attention to my eyes. I cradle her head in my hands at a desperate attempt to soothe her and wipe her tears away. Alina tries to lower her head, but I refuse to let her do it. Alina’s breath catches and I slide my hands into her hair. I pushed her closer to me as my hands slide to her waist. I held her and stroked her back, monitoring her sobs as they dissolve into nothing but quickened breaths, “Nothing is going to happen. I won’t let it happen. You’re safer here than anywhere else. Believe me.”

“I know… I’m so sorry. I’m scared. You are the reason I can sleep at night… Something I haven’t been able to do until the first night we slept in the same room. I fear how long the nights will be without you here. I… I know I have to trust you. I need to for...” Alina hesitates softly, “For us.”

“Yes, darling. For us. This Kingdom is ours. It’s you and me. I need you by my side and I’ll fight my way back to you. I promise.” I whisper. My thoughts relax as relief sweeps through me. Alina’s emotions are scattered everywhere, I can feel them in my embrace. I knew that she felt safe just like this, but she wanted more. It was in her rising pulse and dilated pupils. It was in the way she pulled my arms tighter around her. I can’t break and bring her with me, I have to be strong. “Wait for me, darling. Please, I will return to your arms as fast as I can.”

“You need to. You don’t have a choice. I’ll be here waiting for you.” Alina says, desperately trying to exhale her anxiety out of her chest. Her slow breaths are inviting, tickling my ear.

“Good girl.” I praise softly onto her skin. I give Alina one last kiss, trying to assure her that everything is going to be okay… Even if I didn’t know for sure. She needed to know that now she had something she never did before: a man who loved her as she was, a protector, and an army that was under her command. My chest ached because we had to part after not being away from each other since the day we met. I didn’t think that leaving her would be so difficult. My military phone is ringing nonstop, reminding me that this is far from over.

ALINA

“Darling, Lieutenants Jongdae and Sehun are here.” Kyungsoo calls me to me.

“I’m coming!” I shout and put my notepad down, scribbling notes for relief work routes to send to Lisette.  Jongdae and Sehun stand at attention when I enter the room, “Hello, gentleman.”

“Your Majesty.” They chorus.

“At ease.” I say calmly, still getting used to giving these kinds of commands.

“Guard her like your life depends on it, because it does.” Kyungsoo warns. “We need to keep the Queen safe. There is no room for negotiation.”

“Yes, Your Majesty. We have additional guards coming to the island to assist us. The Queen is safe with us.” Lieutenant Sehun salutes Kyungsoo, a terrified look on his face.

“Very well, man your stations. I will be leaving back to Seoul. Report anything and everything suspicious to me immediately. You are dismissed.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.” The lieutenants chorus. They bow once again to me and leave the room. I turn to my husband and shake my head.

“You don’t have to scare them. We were just on a first name basis.” I softly mention.

“And now we’re in treacherous waters and there’s no room for informalities,” Kyungsoo snaps, then looks up at me, “I have to leave you here and I need to know that you have the absolute best. If anything happens to you…”

“Amorcito, nothing is going to happen to me. I’m safe, I promise.” I smile as I try to convince Kyungsoo that I believe my own words, and I know he doesn’t believe me. I have to do everything I can to not break down. He’s leaving and I have no idea when he’ll be back. Tears threaten to fall down my cheeks, but Kyungsoo shakes his head.

“Don’t cry, please,” he begs softly with his fingers caressing my cheeks, “leaving you is hard enough.”

“I’m going to miss you so much.”

“I’ll be missing you too, darling. I’ll be back before you know it.” Kyungsoo pecks my lips. “Now, go rest. I made sure there was plenty of books and movies for you. Pick one we can watch when I come back.”

“Wait… Just be sure you’re healthy and strong… For the both of us. I… Want to try for a baby when this chaos is over.” I blurt, knowing I just pleaded my husband for a baby. I need to keep my feelings in check. I wait for his reaction, and I’m pleasantly surprised. He smiles, giving me a deeper kiss than before.

“Really? You want to have a baby?” He asks, grinning widely. I nod and embrace him, his arms lifting me from the ground. For a moment, time stood still. For a moment, we were in an idealistic fantasy where all of the negative things that happened to us never existed and we’re just a regular royal couple planning to have our first child. The rose-tinted glasses claim my vision as my feet reach the ground again.

“I do… I’m ready to, Amorcito. So please… Come back to me in one piece… Alive.” I plead gently.

“I will, darling. I promise. I love you…” With one more lingering kiss, we let go of each other and Kyungsoo was escorted out of the palace.

All my brain could scream at me was that this is the last time I will ever see him again and there was no changing my mind. Hours stretched and stretched as I watched his plane leave. Before I knew it, the sun dropped and the moon hung in the sky. Despite Lieutenant Jongdae being posted in front of my door and Lieutenant Sehun patrolling with the squads that were sent from Seoul, I still felt unsafe. Kyungsoo’s absence was so obvious, and it killed me. His side of the bed was cold, my texts went unanswered as I figured that they would. The more I fought my sleep, the more tired I got. I had to sleep in Kyungsoo’s shirt just to make it through the night, but I didn’t get restful sleep.

The next morning, I got dressed and went to the kitchen for breakfast. Lieutenant Jongdae greeted me with a formal bow, and a concerned look on his face.

“Your Majesty, ah, sorry, I mean Alina…” He says softly, almost nervously.

“Yes, Jongdae?” I ask, sitting at the table.

“I heard you crying last night, are you missing His Majesty?”

I nod slowly, “It’s hard to be away from him.”

Lieutenant Jongdae nods, giving me a soft smile. As soon as I he does, my heart aches for my brother. He reminds me so much of Ignacio, another person I hope won’t be a casualty of this war. They are both kind, calm and quick to assure me that things will be fine. I know Jongdae can’t be fully certain of these things, but it’s the thought that counts.

“If anyone can survive this war, it’ll be His Majesty. I know you’re worried about your brothers, they’re just as strong. Try not to stress, Alina. Lieutenant Sehun and myself secured the perimeter, we’re here if you need us. Don’t hesitate to ask for help, okay?”

“Thank you, Jongdae,” I nod, “Please be cautious while on patrol.”

“Yes, Alina.” Lieutenant Jongdae bows his head. I disappear into my bedroom, locking the door. No matter how safe I felt, mistrust was still deep-seated in me and more than likely would never go away. Every day I waited around for an answer to my messages, to finally get the I’m coming home message I so desperately needed to see.

The days turned into weeks, and the weeks turned into months. Kyungsoo called a few times when he could, but there was no room for mistakes or slipping up where my location was. If it meant I’d have to only check his location from the Lieutenants to make sure he’s safe, then I did it.

I sat soaking in the bathtub, reading one of the many books Kyungsoo provided for me. I felt the same emptiness at his missing presence, something I’ll never get used to. The anticipation of his return or his phone call was killing me. My muscles relax at the thought of his touch, his lips… I couldn’t handle the ache I felt deep within anymore. I had been soaking in the warm water for a few hours and got out of the tub, getting dressed in one of Kyungsoo’s shirts, my thick knitted sweater and a pair of leggings. I scurry to bed and get under the covers, searching for the warmth that was missing. I cuddle close to his side of the bed, his scent soothing my anxieties.

I grab my phone and scroll through my photos, smiling at each picture of him. These weren’t press photos, they were intimate moments. Kyungsoo cooking in the kitchen. Us in bed together. His failed attempt of a timed selfie with me as we sat by a fire together, laughing as he fell onto me. Us locked in a kiss… Kyungsoo was something so unexpectedly wonderful. Our beginnings were rough, but they led me to this moment. My mind again wandered off to thoughts of Kyungsoo’s lips, one of my favorite things about him. I felt desires growing deep within to feel his lips on my body, for his arms to keep me warm. My thoughts had steadily gone darker the more time Kyungsoo spent away from her, and I needed to feel him close to me again.

Footsteps echo through the hall, snapping me out of my thoughts.

I freeze in bed, searching for a weapon. The steps clacked against the floor toward the bedroom door, causing me to jump out of bed and rush to the closet where I knew Kyungsoo kept the sword I practiced with. I stealthily grab it and heard the doorknob turn. I hold the handle of the sword and squeeze it as tight as I can, a figure appearing in the doorway. A familiar, cold laugh fills my chest.

“What are you gonna do with that, pretty girl?” Daniel.

“How did you…” before I could finish my sentence, Daniel’s military runs into the room and grabs my arms, “Let me go! JONGDAE! SEHUN!”

“No need to yell, pretty girl. They can’t hear you.” Daniel chuckles. My blood runs cold, there’s no way he killed them… No way… “No, I didn’t kill them. They’re too worthless to kill. They’re much better suited as my prisoners.”

“Daniel, don’t. DON’T.” I growl, struggling against the hands that grab me. Daniel chuckles and grabs my chin with his hand.

“Don’t be afraid of me, my pretty girl. I’m taking you home.”

“NO!” I yell, “You can’t!”

A cloth falls over my mouth, and then I fell into the black behind my eyes.

The last thing in my mind was Kyungsoo, and his smile.

How I’ll never see it again.

[sooinbloom]

genre: fluff, one shot, Chanyeol!AU, EXO!AU, romance

word count: 2,247

theme: established relationship, springtime romance, long distance

warnings: none, just a slightly spicy scene

summary: Park Chanyeol has been dating his long distance girlfriend, Nina, for a two years. Every year he travels to her hometown, Hirosaki, for the cherry blossom festival. This year, he’s going to make the biggest move yet - asking her to marry him.

song that inspired this one shot: be my love by EXO-CBX

requested by: @loeyyuniverse

request fics here (:

Chanyeol loved springtime in Japan.

That’s almost an understatement, considering that he made an annual pilgrimage to Hirosaki just for the cherry blossom festival. It became a tradition with his best friend, Kyungsoo, when they were in their university days. Of course he enjoyed his time with his dearest friend, walking the park and gazing up at the bright spring blooms on the trees but over time there was another reason he enjoyed coming to this city every year.

Around the fourth annual trip to Japan, Chanyeol and Kyungsoo were looking for a café to grab coffee before enjoying the blooms on a brisk Saturday morning. While on the search, he saw the most beautiful girl in a café window, her eyes bright with a warm smile as she took the orders of patrons sitting at a small table. Her hair fell off of her shoulder like a midnight-colored waterfall, her cute nods and smirks stopped him dead in his tracks.

He knew he had to have her. Kyungsoo caught on and immediately dragged his love-stricken best friend in the café. Even with resistance, Kyungsoo managed to get him over the threshold of the café door and inside to see this mysterious girl. It was unusual for Chanyeol to be nervous when talking to girls and Kyungsoo knew it. It was all the more enjoyable to see Chanyeol bumbling around like a nervous teenager while speaking to this girl.

“What’s your name?” Chanyeol stutters.

“Nina.” As soon as her name left her mouth, it engrained itself in Chanyeol’s mind and etched into his heart. It sounded like the breeze when it combed through the air on a bright spring morning just like this one.

Surprisingly, Chanyeol managed to get Nina’s number that day. Ever since, they slowly fell for each other over texts and video calls. For two years, the trip to Japan became another chance to see his love. Being with Nina made Chanyeol feel like he was on fire. It was the only way he could describe it. In every sense of the word, she made him warm. She made him passionate. She made him love her endlessly in all of the ways he never expected to love anyone.

Chanyeol hated it when their romantic rendezvouses would come to an end. He’d keep her close in his arms the night before he had to fly back home, kissing her soft skin and promising not to let another year go by until she was in his arms again. They never intended to be long distance, but they had to because life seemed to hold them at separate pinpoints on a globe. That is, until Chanyeol decided to move the pins much closer than they ever were before.

“This year, my sweet love, will be the last year of missing each other,” he said into his phone as he got undressed from a long day at work. His suitcase lay open as he simultaneously packed for the trip.

“Oh? Why… is that?” Nina replied, amused at the less confident tone in Chanyeol’s voice. It was unusual. He was up to something.

“I transferred to the Japanese headquarters of the company. I’ll be moving to Tokyo.” Chanyeol grins into the phone.

“Are you serious?” She gasps, unable to control her smile.

“I’m serious. You’re opening the café in Tokyo and I miss the chance of waking up to your beautiful smile every morning.”

“Will we still…”

“Don’t worry, my love, we will still meet in Hirosaki this year. I promise. And it’s going to be our favorite trip.”

The day Chanyeol and Nina reunited at the airport was the ultimate daydream come true, it always was. Nina welcomed him in her usual run-and-pounce greeting she gave him at the airport. Oddly, this time he was alone. Usually, Kyungsoo and his girlfriend, Aria, would tag along on these trips, but Nina surmised that maybe it wasn’t going to happen like usual this year.

Once the greetings and kisses were all but done, Chanyeol hailed a cab and took control of the situation. The couple cuddled in the backseat of the cab, fingers entwined with Nina’s head perched on Chanyeol’s shoulder, something she could only do if they were both sitting down. Being with a man almost an entire foot taller than you had its hits and misses, the novelty at times fell short when it really counted.

“Your castle awaits you, my love.” Chanyeol steps out of the cab and throws his arm toward a small house in the midst of the cherry blossom trees. It was homey, like it was plopped from middle earth.

“Is this for us?” Nina shyly smirks. The moon had already taken its place in the sky, it made the magic of the moment heighten in Nina’s curious eyes.

“Of course, now come on. Let’s settle in.” Chanyeol insists excitedly. Once they walked into their home for the week, the walls embraced them with a cozy atmosphere. The wooden floors creaked under their feet as they moved deeper into the small four walls, dimly lit by soft yellow light that made the place feel like an old classic novel. If Nina didn’t know any better, she felt as though she were transported into another dimension where cottage-core was everyone’s way of life, not just her imagination’s. Chanyeol ducked through the doorways and took note of the seemingly ancient record player in the center of the living room.

His eyes scanned the small stack of records, old big band from the 1940’s was right at the top. It was a necessary amenity he knew he’d need at the perfect moment on their trip.  Once the couple reached the bedroom, he set their luggage on the floor and helplessly gazed into his beloved’s welcoming eyes.

“What do you think?” Chanyeol asked nervously. He craved Nina’s approval, he yearned to see that beautiful smile upturn onto her face. Once Nina gave her nod of approval, and the showing of teeth Chanyeol was banking on, he immediately took her into his arms and brushed his eager lips onto hers. Savoring the moment, he gently lay her down on the bed, slowly sliding her sweater off of her shoulders. Planting kisses on her neck and taking in her scent, sweet nothings fell out of his mouth and onto her ears.

It didn’t take long for the long-distance lovers to get lost in each other, making up for lost time and desperate miles between them. They held each other and collided in kisses and soft touches for what seemed like the entire night. Chanyeol stopped at nothing to make her feel like the only woman in the world. He took her in his arms and melted their bodies together in a collision of sweet and obscene.  

He drank her in with his senses, he had no problem being desolate in her, because with her is where he was found. Chanyeol only hoped that the momentum of their romance would continue to play out tomorrow, because he was about to put all of his cards on the table for her and there was no looking back.

After lattes and pastries in the morning, Chanyeol set off on his mission to make this the most memorable day for Nina. They wandered Hirosaki, taking in the sights of the cherry blossoms swaying on the tree branches. He held her hand as they walked through her favorite bookstore, allowing her to buy whatever she wanted. There was absolutely no limit when it came to Nina. Anything she wanted; Chanyeol was happy to give it to her.

Cherry blossom petals were in her hair, and he didn’t dare take one of them away from her. He loved her this way, she was so cute in her yellow and white checkered dress that she insisted on wearing today. He kissed her on street corners and proudly had her on his arm, he envisioned his life like this every single day. It had to be this way, its the only way that was right.

He adored how the sun made her shine even more brightly than she already did. The dainty box in his pocket was starting to burn a hole in his pants but it never seemed to be the right time to bring it up. He hoped his anxiety wasn’t so obvious on his face. After they wandered every street and saw every sight to see, the couple went back to their small house amongst the soft cherry blossoms.

“I had the best day today, Yeolie!” Nina beamed up at her amorous lover. He grinned down at her, combing his black hair back with his long fingers. Nina couldn’t help but bite her lip at the way his undercut suited him so well, or how his Rolex gleamed in the light as he tossed his hair back. Suddenly, the mood changed. Chanyeol pulled out a bottle of Cabernet, rummaging the cabinets for wine glasses but he only seemed to find regular, cherry blossom themed glasses with pink stained blooms on the sides that looked like they belonged in his grandmother’s house.

“What are you doing?” Nina giggled.

“Spoiling my princess… With granny cups of wine.” Chanyeol muttered, disappointed in his failed efforts. With a soft hand, Nina brought his chin up so he could look her in the eye.

“You’re so cute.” She sweetly chided. She took her cup and clinked it with Chanyeol’s, his arm now secure around her waist. With a sudden jerk, Chanyeol walked over to the old record player in the living room, putting the needle on the record he spotted last night, a familiar melody filled the air.

“Come here. Dance with me.” Chanyeol smiles, offering his hand to Nina.

“Don’t mind if I do.” She blushed, taking him up on his offer. Nina allowed Chanyeol to lead, as clumsy as he was. She found it charming how he would trip over his two feet when he got nervous. She’d never tell him that she knew how hyper aware he became of every tiny detail when they were together. They swayed gently (and awkwardly) to the big band song she loved so much but could never remember the name of. They finished their wine and kept dancing, the alcohol making them sway a little bit more than normal.

“You still have cherry blossoms in your hair.” Chanyeol whispers, combing her hair back with his fingers. Nina reaches for her hair, but Chanyeol playfully swats her hand away.

“No, leave them. It makes you look like springtime.”

“I’m sorry but that’s the cheesiest thing you’ve ever said to me.” Nina chuckles, Chanyeol just brings her closer.

“You act like I am not the most charming man in the world. You should feel honored.” He cockily states, puffing his chest. Nina playfully pushes Chanyeol’s shoulder, then rests her head against it. The pounding of his heart was evident, but why? She felt him slowly inhale, then exhale. Chanyeol stopped their dancing and took Nina’s hands into his.

“I have to tell you something.”

Oh god. He’s breaking up with me. Nina’s mind went in at least six different directions as Chanyeol said those six words.

“Y-you do?”

“Nina… Listen. I…” Chanyeol bends his knees, debating on kneeling or standing. He settles for somewhere in the middle with red cheeks.

“I… Nina…”

“Are you breaking up with me?” Nina blurts, Chanyeol rapidly shakes his head.

“No! Love. Baby. Nina… I just… Why do you have to look at me like that?”

“Like what?!” Nina exclaims, confused by the sudden change in the mood.

“Like that!” Chanyeol motions toward her face.

“What am I supposed to do?!”

“LET ME ASK YOU TO MARRY ME!” Chanyeol blurts, the with wide eyes, covers his mouth. Nina’s jaw drops as Chanyeol turns from her for a moment, then returns to her gaze. He drops to his knee right next to the open window; cherry blossom petals blow into the house and soften the moment.

“Nina. I can’t imagine another year of you on my screen. I fell in love with you in the café down the street two years ago. I want those two years to turn into twelve. Those twelve to twenty. Those twenty to forty and onto forever. I love you more than life itself, and any time I think of spring and see cherry blossoms, I think of you and how you made my life so much brighter. Baby… Will you marry me?”

Chanyeol shakily opens the dainty box that housed Nina’s dream engagement ring, nestled in between a black velvet cushion. The center stone glistened in the low light, a soft cherry blossom pink. Every single moment they shared flashed before her eyes and led up to this very moment, with Chanyeol’s boba eyes begging her for an answer. Nina gets down on her knees with Chanyeol and nods.

“Yes, Yeolie. I’ll marry you.” Nina grins, allowing Chanyeol to slide the ring on her finger. He stands and brings her up into his arms, kissing her lips in fervent need.

“I love you. I love you so much.” Chanyeol whispers in between kisses. This moment was everything he hoped it would be. The cards were on the table, showing two hearts. He remembered to thank Kyungsoo for dragging him into the café that day, because if he didn’t… He wouldn’t be in this moment with the love of his life.

His forever love.

[sooinbloom]

The Kingdom of Us

Chapter 10

pairing: kyungsoo x OFC genre: Royal!AU, nonidol!soo, crownprince!kyungsoo, romance, drama theme: arranged marriage, modern royalty, enemies to lovers, war, betrayal word count: 6,947 description: Kyungsoo and Alina get surprising news, King Daniel returns to Alina’s life and Kyungsoo goes toe to toe with the very man who hurt his princess. warnings: mentions of abuse, violence, physical assault, fighting using weapons. MINORS DNI

author’s notes: hello dear reader! I apologize for not updating timely but I decided to share this with you today to celebrate Kyungsoo’s song Popcorn reaching over a million streams on Spotify and over a million views on YouTube! We are so close to Blossom, I am so excited. Please enjoy this chapter, it’s only going to get more intense from here. Photos are not mine, dividers by @saradika-graphics . Enjoy!

ALINA

I didn’t remember falling asleep in the library, or how I got into bed. With a stretch, I realize that I’m draped in Kyungsoo’s shirt he was wearing yesterday. I snuggle into it and smile to myself. Despite the war, he manages to give me the beauty I’ve missed since the attacks started. We are required to be strong as leaders, but behind closed doors it’s weighing heavy on me. The images of people suffering and everything around them being destroyed eats at me, and the fact that we’ve entered into a world war against a crooked King and delusional allies.

Spending time with Kyungsoo made me see that what we have is real and not a fantasy, he proved to be my best source of comfort in these uncertain times. The war caused us to be separated and busy with relief work and a lot of military strategy, but we knew this was just the reality of our positions as Crown Prince and Princess. I’ve heard whispers about my father-in-law not wanting to perform his duties as King. It’s uncharacteristic of him to shrink back, I have an undeniable suspicion that he may hand the Crown over to Kyungsoo as to keep his name out of this war. Kyungsoo hasn’t spoken about it, but I know it must be weighing heavy on his mind. He does most duties of a king without the title anyway, and our allies are becoming confident that we can win this war with him leading the fight.

“Darling, you’re awake.” Kyungsoo walks into our room and leans down to kiss me. He’s in his military fatigues and that sharpens my attention. I sit up and his shirt slides up my thighs, his curious eyes follow the fabric as it slips and pools at my hips.

“Why are you in your fatigues, amorcito?” I ask curiously.

“Things are changing rapidly, princess. It’s looking as though that I have to fight in this war, our alliances are urging every man to fight and I can’t sit idly by because of my title as Crown Prince,” Kyungsoo sighs, he can see the anxiety in my eyes, “Hey… Don’t be anxious. I’ll be fine, love.”

“It doesn’t stop my worrying.” I grumble. Kyungsoo sits on the bed and brings me to his side, his fingers trace my hip gently.

“Look at me, listen to me. This war may separate us temporarily, but I’ll fight my way back to you. I’ll keep you safe even if I’m not at your side. To prove it, there’s two people I want you to meet today.” Kyungsoo smiles.

“Two people? Who?” I curiously raise a brow.

“Trust me, darling. Go get dressed. And… make sure you cover these up.” Kyungsoo cheekily grins, caressing the purple marks he left on my neck and chest. I blush at the realization that there’s something to cover up in the first place.

“Yes, Your Highness.” I wink, walking toward my wardrobe. I pick out a more formal outfit, a skirt that falls past my knees, a chunky sweater and flats. Though it’s springtime, it’s still on the colder side so the sweater works in my benefit to cover the marks on my chest. I pluck my makeup from its place near my accessories and take a quick shower. While getting dressed, I wonder who it is that I’ll be meeting today. I put my makeup on and make sure to cover the love marks on my neck, my body tingles at the thought of how they got there. Kyungsoo is… Quite the lover. I feel so wanted by him, so loved… It’s a stark contrast from where we were when we first met. I sigh and fix my hair in two braids, a more traditional style than what I have been wearing lately. I meet Kyungsoo in the common room and his smile radiates on his face.

“You’re so beautiful, darling.” Kyungsoo smiles as he takes my hand in his. We walk to the War Room, a place I’ve only been in a handful of times. Two men stand talking with Commander Jongin and Commander Minseok, one of them has a boisterous laugh that feels familiar. Once Commander Minseok sees us coming, he immediately turns and salutes us, the three other men doing the same.

“At ease, gentleman.” Kyungsoo calls, keeping his hand in mine, “Good morning, Commanders and Lieutenants. Thank you for being on time today on short notice. Crown Princess Alina needs additional security during these troubling times, and I only want the best for my wife. That is why I requested you, Lieutenants, to keep a close eye on her. Crown Princess, I would like for you to meet Lieutenants Kim Jongdae and Oh Sehun. They are my best assassins, some of my most trusted men.”

Both Lieutenants bow to me, and my eyes settle on Lieutenant Jongdae. My eyes water as he smiles at me, and it’s then that I realize exactly why this emotion overwhelmed me.

“Lieutenant Jongdae, please forgive me, but you remind me so much of my brother, Ignacio.” I smile, holding back my tears.

“Crown Princess, thank you for such an honored comparison. I fought alongside His Royal Highness on my last tour. He spoke very highly of you, Your Highness.” Lieutenant Jongdae nods politely. Kyungsoo squeezes my hand and offers a soft smile. He knows how much I’ve been missing my brothers and following the news of the battles happening in Azteco.

“Please, call me Alina, as we will more than likely be spending a lot of time together.” I insist with a soft smile.

“It’s against protocol to call you anything other than your titles, Crown Princess.” Lieutenant Sehun lowers his head.

“Lieutenant, I will tell you this about my wife. If Crown Princess Alina wants something, she gets it and there’s no arguing. So, if she feels more comfortable with you calling her by her name, then that’s what she gets. However, proceed with caution when around the royal family.” Kyungsoo explains with a soft laugh. Something is off, why would Kyungsoo out of nowhere want to have new military personnel watch over me? Especially Seoul’s highest regarded assassins? I just graciously nod and smile and try to put the pieces together.

“I will take that in regard, Crown Prince.” Lieutenant Sehun nods.

“Excuse me? Crown Princess? I am here to collect you for revisions for the relief aid plan?” Lisette enters the room with a deep bow. I turn and nod, then focus back on the commanders and lieutenants in the room.

“It’s a pleasure seeing and meeting all of you. I hope you work hard today.” I bow to them, and they lower their heads. I look at Kyungsoo and bow to him, his hand brushes mine quickly. I turn to Lisette and following her out of the room. “What revisions need to be made?”

“Somehow, at the border of Valencia, Azteco is stopping the caravans and seizing the relief supplies we have sent in the last three weeks.” Lisette explains. I have relied heavily on Lisette and her organization skills to help me with all of these efforts. We enter the palace again and we sit at Lisette’s desk, discussing the plans of how to get a workaround for all of the aid. Once we’re done with that, she gushes to me about the secret dates she’s been having with Duke Chanyeol. It doesn’t surprise me that they started seeing each other secretly.

“Amiga, he is such a good kisser.” She gushes.

“Is he?” I laugh, “I’m just worried that someone will find out and blow your cover.”

“I know… We’re trying to figure out what to do, it’s been six months or so now and we both want more. He just can’t marry me because of Seoul Law. He doesn’t have a betrothal but is expected to marry someone of noble birth.” Lisette sighs.

“Perhaps, your title can change, as you and your mother did assist the Queen and Princess of Mariposa for a long time. Perhaps you can become a viscountess at my command…” I muse, Lisette’s eyes widen.

“How?! Tell me! What do I need to do?”

“Leave it to me, Amiga. Just because things are uncertain right now, your love doesn’t have to be. I’ll talk to Kyungsoo and see what I can possibly do about it.” I nod, feeling the onset of a headache gnawing at my temples. “I’m sorry, Lissy. I’m getting a headache. I’m going to lie down for a bit. Send me any updates about the relief aid, and your lover.”

“Oh, please don’t get stressed, okay? We’ll talk later!” Lisette smiles. I nod and make my way back to our chambers, sending a quick message to Kyungsoo.

alina amorcito, I’m getting a headache, Going to rest. I’m okay Love you <3

amorcito Oh… my poor darling. Please rest my love. I’ll come to check on you. Love u more <3

I wake up from my nap to the sound of commotion outside. I orient myself to my surroundings and get up to see what’s going on. I gaze out of the window and see a crowd of people entering the palace. People come and go quite frequently, but this is much different. I recognize the man and woman in the middle of the guards almost instantaneously. Pressure builds in my chest and the unease grasps at my throat, its claws sinking into me until the sound, color and shapes around me distort. Kyungsoo comes into view in my peripheral vision, curious eyes fill with concern as he looks at me.

“Princess?” He manages to say.

“What are they doing here?” I ask, demanding an answer. The only problem is my words are barely audible, my hands shaking in front of me.

“King Daniel, Queen Maria and their military generals are here for peace talks. Azteco’s military is on the outskirts of the border and threatening an invasion. My father invited them in hopes of ending tensions.” Kyungsoo says carefully.

“Why didn’t… You tell me?”

“I was informed last minute, Alina. Forgive me, but I wanted you to have a good night’s sleep for once. You finally got comfortable and I didn’t want your to needlessly worry. He can’t hurt you. I won’t let him even get the chance.” Kyungsoo moves toward me, and I can’t exactly stay mad at him for this. It’s hard to stay mad at him. I allow him to hold me and I regulate my breath to match his. I have to get through this somehow, at least Kyungsoo is by my side now.

“What do I have to do?”

“Eat a meal with him and your sister. That’s it. I’m sorry.” Kyungsoo looks down but I push his chin up to look me in the eye.

“I have to do this. The only difference between now and then is that I have you here with me. I know you won’t let any thing happen to me.” I reassure Kyungsoo, while simultaneously assuring myself. “I can’t run from him for the rest of my life.”

“What a warm welcome, King Bonhwa!” King Daniel bellows. Maria is silent beside him, smiling occasionally. I shake at the sound of his voice, my hands trembling behind my back. Kyungsoo grabs for one and holds it in his, caressing the skin on the web of my hand.

“Please be seated, everyone.” King Bonhwa cheerfully calls. “Isn’t this lovely! A family reunion for the Crown Princess!”

I politely nod and sit up straight, looking straight at my sister. Maria deviates eye contact and Kyungsoo squeezes my hand.

“It’s okay, I’m right here.” He whispers. “I won’t let him do anything to you.”

“I am delighted to see my sister again. It’s lovely to see you as well, King Daniel.” I politely reply. Ever the perfect princess you are, Alina. It drives me crazy that Daniel’s stupid phrases echo in my head.

“Ever so lovely to see you, beautiful princess.” King Daniel smirks, there it is. Maria sighs and puts on her best smile. I toy with my food and Kyungsoo keeps his eyes focused on the boisterous king, watching all of his moves intently as he booms with laughter and obvious candor. “Crown Prince! I hear you are quite the master of the sword. How did that come about? Tutors? Your servants fearing you? Your military letting you win?”

Kyungsoo stares hauntingly at Daniel, a gaze I’d never seen until tonight. If looks could kill, King Daniel would be as good as dead. Perhaps that isn’t that bad of an outcome… But I know something like that is impossible. Kyungsoo takes a bite of his fish and leans back in his chair, smirking. “Have you heard of the Seoul proverb about the man and the sword?”

“Humor me, Crown Prince.” I tense at the sound of Daniel’s tone changing, my hands are pressed together under the table with my nails digging into the flesh of my palm. Queen Hyunae and King Bonhwa look in between the two men exchanging tense glares. Maria scowls at my husband, obviously angered that a mere prince would insult a king in such a way. Maria had a complex and it was very apparent she had a need to protect her husband. Her eyes move to me and we make eye contact, but it falters.

“The wielder of the sword is not a gifted man, but one of great skill and self-control. The fool stabs himself many times attempting to bargain with the fate of the sword.” Kyungsoo responds in Aztecan, smiling.

“My son showed great skill on his own, King Daniel.” King Bonhwa responds, praising his son in rare form. It wasn’t often Bonhwa would offer compliments to Kyungsoo, but when it came to the honor of the Crown he would practically bow at the feet of his son. People weren’t difficult to read, you just had to look at the obvious. “Just like his ancestors, our dynasty was established by the valiant efforts of Doh Swordsman. The legacy of our Kings is in the merit of a sword.”

“Is that so? Why, I challenge you to a friendly duel, Crown Prince Kyungsoo. The Azteco People are descendants of Great Warriors. Perhaps your pretty princess can come see what true swordsmanship is.” Daniel challenges.

“I accept your challenge, Your Highness.” Kyungsoo grins deviously.

“Wouldn’t you enjoy that, Crown Princess Alina?” King Daniel coos the last few words to me. Kyungsoo reaches for my hand and draws circles around my knuckles, bringing me back down to earth. I nod gracefully and Kyungsoo leans onto the table.

“Queen Maria, would it be rude to request that you control your husband? He will not listen to a mere Crown Prince it seems. My wife is not a woman to be spoken to in such a manner.” Kyungsoo warns lowly, not caring about the scowls on his parent's face. This is the first time I’ve seen my husband like this, but I don’t mind it; it’s a welcomed change. He doesn’t give a damn about the titles people possess; he demands respect that is rightfully his. My anxiety rises and I turn to Kyungsoo.

“Crown Prince.” I gaze at my husband with concerned eyes, gently squeezing his bicep. Kyungsoo covers my hand with his, apologizing with his gaze.

“Of course, Crown Prince. However, he may not even listen to his own wife, it’s not something an Azteco King would do.” Maria pettily replies, attempting to touch King Daniel in the same way I touched Kyungsoo. King Daniel slides Maria’s hands away as servants take away our plates. Now I can tell the difference between fake affection and real affection. There really is no love between Daniel and Maria, never has been and never will be.

“Please, Your Highness. It was… Lovely dining with you, however, King Bonhwa and I have matters to discuss with yourself and the His Highness, King Daniel. Please, meet us in our study chambers.”

It’s odd that an absent King and trophy queen are the ones handling peace talks. Kyungsoo’s hand grips mine a little tighter, I know he’s upset.  I know better than to intervene, so I softly squeeze his hand instead. Maria smirks and I look to Kyungsoo, a feral fixation on King Daniel takes his gaze. Maria glares at me, a hint of jealousy forming in her eyes as Kyungsoo makes it a point to wrap his arm around my waist, his thumb caressing my side softly. She watches as he turns to me, whispering softly in my ear. “Don’t let them sense your fear. You are strong, Princess. I’m so proud of you for making it through this dinner.”

I nod and show a quick smile before returning to listening to the conversation about swordsmanship.

I knew that Maria felt it wasn’t fair that I got betrothed to Kyungsoo. It was supposed to be her, but she wasn’t chosen by the Doh Dynasty. It wasn’t my fault, but she always made me feel like it was. Maria wouldn’t tell a soul that her marriage was arranged to make King Daniel look better. We all knew it but went along with the carefully curated story that it was a love match. Maria pressured our parents into it thinking she knew better about politics than a seasoned King and Queen.

When she got what she wanted, Maria lamented the day she married King Daniel. He was demanding, harsh and cruel.

Jealousy started to take root as I got older. Maria started saying she felt wronged by me and the Seoul Kingdom. She believed that I could have had anyone else I wanted. Though I would have preferred to have a love match, I’m happy with how things turned out. Maria rose and walked toward me, taking my hands.

“If you excuse us, your Highnesses, Crown Princess Alina and I have business to attend to. Send my apologies to King Bonhwa and Queen Hyunae for my tardiness, this is important.” Maria announces as she pulls me up and away to the guest chambers.

“Maria, what are you doing?” I ask, holding my sister’s hands. Maria breaks down into sobs, her knees folding underneath her. “Maria!”

“You, little sister, have made my life a living hell.” Maria grunts angrily. My eyes widen, I step forward and put a hand on Maria’s shoulder, but I get shaken off.

“What are you talking about?”

“Oh, like you don’t know! What did you do to Daniel?”

“Nothing! Are you accusing me the same way the tabloids have accused me of being an adulteress?”

Maria wipes her eyes and grabs my arms, squeezing as tight as she can. “No, but you couldn’t have just let him do what he needed to do? You couldn’t have said no to Crown Prince Kyungsoo? Believe it or not, you had the option to retract but you still chose to come here! Daniel has been collecting concubines instead of loving his wife. He’s obsessed with the thought of you, and it makes me sick! He told me how you’d allow him to visit you in the night. Why did you stop him? Why did you refuse him after a while? Now, he’s always upset and refuses me even more!”

“Maria!” I yell. “I never consented to those visits! I never wanted them! I am in love with Kyungsoo and now he can never have what King Daniel took! You wanted me to keep enduring the pain I felt every single night? How I would be disabled for days? Did he tell you about that part of the story? You wanted me to endure abuse for your benefit? What is wrong with you? What happened to you? I was a child!”

Silence forces its way between us, anger brooding in my soul. Maria’s breath staggers and her hands shake as I push her off of me. “It was you who chose to marry King Daniel knowing his accusations from around the world. He threatened me with my life if I ever told anyone what he did. You know the protocols! I had my voice taken from me and I will no longer be silent for your benefit or anyone else’s. It is obvious that he changed you. I am disgusted with you. I am ordering that you leave immediately. As soon as this visit is over, I never want to hear of your name or see you again.”

“Alina…”

“No! There’s no explanation! You’re sick in the head! You took sides with a monster. You reap the consequences. You are no longer my sister, but my enemy.” Haunted, I leave the guest chambers and hurry back to Kyungsoo but he’s nowhere to be found. He must be in the peace talks meeting, so I just take my leave and lock the doors to our chambers, feeling confident that the Lieutenants were probably close by.

I can’t sleep when I’m alone.

Kyungsoo and the military were pulled into an emergency strategy meeting, and I waited for him to come back for hours. A couple of hours ago, the Royal Guards were called away by Hyunae again, this is nothing new. Uneasiness and restlessness fills my chest as I get up and make the trek to the library to clear my head. As I enter the library, large hands grab my hips and shove me onto a wall. I yelp and look up to see Daniel, a dark gleam in his eye and a twisted grin forms on his face. I try to run away but he shoves me back onto the wall.  

"My pretty, pretty Princess." He sneers, his grip tighter on my body. 

"L-Let me go, Daniel." I shakily warn. 

"Oh, come on. Don't be like that, Alina. I saw your reaction to me as I spoke to you tonight at dinner. You can’t keep me off of your mind despite being married to another man, can you?" Daniel reaches for my face and I turn away. Daniel holds on to my waist tighter, his nails digging into my skin.

"Stop! Let me go, please!” Daniel grabs my face and squeezes it tightly in his grasp.

"Have you no sense, Alina? Can't you see that I am deeply attracted to you? You feel much better than Maria does. Your sweet essence still lingers on my lips." Daniel leans his body onto mine and I squirm to be free of him. I can feel his breath on my neck, it is nausea inducing. The flashes of him coming into my room unwarranted and how terrifying it was every time he got into my bed haunted me. I felt used, disgusting.

"Daniel, no. I never wanted you. I-I love Crown Prince Kyungsoo. He is my husband. You are nothing but a disgusting-"

Daniel strikes me to the ground and hastily picks me up by my arm, dragging me to the other side of the library and throws me to the floor. He rips the shirt I’m wearing and all of Kyungsoo’s love marks are on display. Anger and jealousy flashes in his eyes as he hovers over me. "Ah, what’s this? Hm? You let that other man mark what’s mine? I'll show you not to be disrespectful to me. When I’m finished with you, pretty girl, he’ll never want to touch you again. You’re the People’s Princess, won’t you obey a king when he asks you to complete a task?"

“Alina? Darling?” I hear my name being called. Kyungsoo! "Princess, are you here?"

“Kyungsoo!” I yell. Daniel slaps me and his ring gets caught in my flesh and his nails puncture my skin. He snatches his hand away and I scream from the pain of his ring being ripped from my cheek. The door opens and Daniel panics, dodging my husband through the back door as I lay frozen on the floor, sobbing.

“Oh my God, Alina!” Kyungsoo rushes to my side and brings me into his arms. I hold onto him tightly, shaking more than I ever have before. “Darling, I’m right here, you’re safe.”

“K-Kyung… Soo… I’m sorry…” I sob. Kyungsoo gently takes his fingers under my chin and guides my tear-filled eyes to look at him. His eyes water at the sight of the gash on my face and what I’m assuming is bruising on my skin. “I shouldn’t have… I was… I…”

"Did that bastard do this to you?" Kyungsoo grits through his teeth angrily. I whimper and Kyungsoo takes a deep breath, blowing it out before returning his gaze to me. I show him my face and he touches the marks gently. I shake and nod quietly. Kyungsoo carries me back to our chambers and brings me to the bathroom, fishing for a first aid kit under the sink. I sit in silence as Kyungsoo cleans my cut, I didn’t even wince at the pain. “Darling, tell me what happened.”

“I… I couldn’t sleep. I was afraid to be in our room alone, I know the lieutenants were in the meeting with you. The Royal guards were called away by Hyunae… As usual. I thought that I would have been safe going to our library for a moment. I know I shouldn’t have left our chambers. I just couldn’t sleep and thought I would be safe in the library. Earlier tonight when Maria took me to speak privately, she confirmed that she is being treated terribly in that marriage, and she blames me for it. She… Said I should’ve allowed King Daniel to continue what he was doing… She knew about it and just allowed it to happen. I was walking and King Daniel grabbed me. He said he was attracted to me… That I was an obedient… Little girl… His nails cut my skin and his ring got caught in my cheek. He hit me to the ground. If you didn’t come when you did… He would’ve….” I sob and cuddle myself into Kyungsoo, he picks me up off of the edge of the bathtub and takes me to our bed. Kyungsoo sets me down and pulls the covers up. He turns to stand at the edge of the bed but I frantically pull him back.

“Princess, I should’ve protected you better. From now on the Lieutenants will be with you at all times. It was my error to have them with me when they would’ve been better off with you. I’m so sorry…” Kyungsoo huffs, guilt written all over his face as his finger moves over my wound on my face.

“Don’t be sorry. Please. I should’ve stayed here.”

“You should be able to go wherever you please without anxiety. It’s taking everything inside me not to find him and strangle his pathetic life out of his body. But… I know you need me, that’s more important. The duel is tomorrow. I’ll be sure to show him he can never mess with my princess, my wife, my love… ever again.” Kyungsoo’s gentle lips meet mine, relief cascades over me as he holds me tight to his body.

I don’t want him to fight my battles for me anymore. After the duel tomorrow, I have to take things into my own hands.

KYUNGSOO

I didn't sleep at wink last night. I didn't mind, it was worth it. I relied on adrenaline as I readied myself for King Daniel and our “friendly" duel. I knew I couldn’t kill him, that would be too easy, and too obvious. Certain rage filled me as Alina told me what this bastard had done to her for so many years. Guilt filled me, knowing that she was harmed and I treated her unfairly in the process.

“Son, before you go out there, may I have a moment?” Father walks into the Armory, hands clasped behind his back.

“If you came to talk me out of this, I’m standing firm.” I warn.

“No, Son. This… Is fairly important. I know you will make a statement today to King Daniel. You have been leading our Kingdom in my… absence.”

“I wasn’t aware that absence had a double meaning of cowardice.” I shoot back, I don’t want to hear what he has to say. Not today.

“There are things you still have yet to understand, Crown Prince. One of them being that I can no longer serve as king. I was waiting patiently for you to marry Crown Princess Alina and at least have an heir on the way to say this, but it’s time that you ascend the throne.” Father boldly proclaims, hints of anxiety seep through his words. I stop sharpening my sword and look up at him. He is an older man now. A man that I hardly respected, but nevertheless was my father, my king. Father is now the age Grandfather was when he stepped away from the Kingship. The details become glaringly clear, now I’ll have the title for my endless work.

“What does this mean, Father? Are you ill?” I pry, my thoughts immediately going to Alina. “What does this mean for Alina?”

“Son, I am a miserable man. I only kept this all going for your sake. I will not bring shame to the Crown, but your mother and I have decided to live our days as separate people, away from rulership. As much as she may not personally approve of the Crown Princess, she admittedly agrees that Alina is a strong woman, who would make a strong Queen. This may come as a surprise, I am aware. But we have things we need to fix in ourselves that need to be done privately, away from this war that our entire world is drowning in.” Father explains. My head spins.

“You’re choosing to focus on yourself when your people need you? You pick right now to inform me that you’re handing the Crown to me? You should have done this months ago. You were always a damn coward. You’ll never be anything else.” I hiss, bowing my head. I mock my own politeness, gazing in irritation at Father. “It is of the highest honor to be a better king that history will remember for all the right reasons.”

“Kyungsoo, Son…”

“Leave. Grandfather must be rolling in his grave with how selfish you are. I’ll figure out a coronation as soon as possible, that will be none of your concern.” I finish, returning to sharpening my sword. My anger fuels me even more to assert my position with Daniel. I wasn’t expecting to be King this early into my marriage. I also wasn’t expecting Mother to be so okay with forfeiting her crown. There must be another man, there has to be. I don’t care anymore. They can revel in their own stupidity. My only focus right now is making a statement: no one can touch my darling Alina and get away with it.  

 I walk to the center of the Training Grounds. I search for her in the stands. When I see her, the world around me gets its color. Every single sign of bruising or cuts were covered with makeup. It killed me to see it, but it had to be done.  Lisette is next to her, Lieutenant Jongdae and Lieutenant Sehun are on either side of them. I’d ordered them to not leave her side while this duel happens. In front of them are Baekhyun, Yixing and Chanyeol, my princess is perfectly safe. Her gorgeous eyes dart between me and my idiotic opponent on the other end of the Grounds. Her hands are folded, she shivers in the cold spring morning air. I pace over to her, taking my scarf from my neck. I won’t be needing it anyway.

“You’re shivering, Princess.” I kneel in front of her and wrap the scarf around her neck, making sure to cover her as best as I can. Baekhyun scoffs at me, I stare at him in confusion.

“Oh, you can take his scarf but not mine, Princess?” He crosses his arms in mock hurt.

“I didn’t want your scarf, Duke Baekhyun.” Alina replies. “I have my husband to keep me warm.”

“Ahhh, so cute. So nauseating.” Lisette jokingly rolls her eyes. “Is it true that the King challenged Kyungsoo over dinner?”

“It’s true.” Alina nods. Chanyeol leans back, chuckling to himself.

“Oh, if he only knew what he did when he challenged our Crown Prince Kyungsoo.” Yixing adds with a confident smile. Alina unfortunately had only heard the borderline propaganda stories of my accolades and fighting style, it almost felt like it was part of the whole betrothal package. I shake my head at her and stand, leaving a kiss on her hand before I walk back to the center of the Grounds. I pace and center my thoughts on just beating this man to a pulp because killing him is not an option. I watch the pathetic King from a distance, studying him. He’s surrounded by guards, and this humors me.

“What an honor it is to play knight with the alleged Dark Horse of Seoul.” King Daniel taunts. I roll my eyes and watch Daniel as he approaches me confidently. The King smirks and points the swords edge at me. "You, my brother-in-law, will soon understand the valiant nature of the Azteco people today, no matter how much skill you may think you have."

I clash my sword with Daniel's to get it out of his face, annoyed. I refuse to start this respectfully, I don’t bow to him, and he doesn’t bow to me. That’s fine. I don’t need his respect. "It is my honor to prove otherwise, King Daniel."

We begin to circle each other; I grip the sword's handle and twirl it at my side. This is exactly what I wanted, it's what I need to do to get my point across. Anger boils in my chest and I spit on the ground near King Daniel’s feet. The Royal Guards disperse. I narrow my eyes at the King, mentally confirming my alibi if I decide to stab him in the heart. 

"You won the Valencian jackpot, didn't you? With that pretty little thing as your wife." Daniel smirks, speaking quickly in Aztecan. "You know, Crown Prince Kyungsoo, Little Crown Princess Alina had a crush on me for the longest time? It was cute, really. She'd dress up just for me and wear naughty things only my eyes would see-"

"Keep the Crown Princess’ name out of your disgusting mouth." I heatedly growl. "I know what you did, you disgusting piece of shit."

King Daniel chuckles and we begin to clash our swords, Daniel initiates the aggression. My defense allowed no room for error, each step I took had a purpose. "I haven't a clue what you speak of, Crown Prince. I can't understand you… Your Aztecan is embarrassingly terrible. She'd beg me for attention, what a needy, naughty girl."

That’s it.

I charge forward and launch an all-out assault against Daniel. The so-called man, a King of a Warrior Nation can barely wield a sword. Daniel swings his sword and I duck, kicking his ankle to knock him off balance. I growl angrily and hit my sword against Daniel's, struggling for dominance. My anger boils as I stare in the eyes of Alina’s abuser. I hear the whispers of how feral I look, unwilling to let Daniel get up. The murmurs of my eyes and how they turn black, how someone of my stature and status battles like a true soldier and not a baby-faced Crown Prince roll off of my shoulders. I don’t care. All that matters is my opponent begs for mercy and I won't stop until Daniel is either dead or heeds my warnings. 

"You naive boy, so naive. She probably hasn't spread those pretty legs for you the same way she did with me, huh?" 

I slice Daniel's arm in a fit of blind rage and jab Daniel's chest with the handle of my sword. I enjoy the sound of his screams, its payback.  My fist collides with his temple and face without let up until the King is on the ground, covered in blood. Daniel screams in pain and I flip the sword to point the edge to his pitiful throat. "Listen, King Daniel. Never will you go near my Alina again. If you dare to disobey me, you will wish you never crossed my path or laid a finger on my Princess. I will kill you with my bare hands and have absolutely no regrets. Understood?"

"Wh-What-What are you talking about?" Daniel nervously chuckles.

"I said is that understood you bastard?!" I glare into Daniel's eyes, all logic leaving my head. The thought enters my mind to end him now. The dukes whisper to each other as to what possessed me to react this way. If only they knew. Now, my reputation proceeds me and Daniel knows it. I press the blade onto Daniel's neck and the injured king shouts out, tears in his eyes.

"U-U-Uh-Understood."

"I'm sorry. I couldn't understand you." I hiss mockingly and presses the blade further, just enough to dent the skin. 

"I said I understood!" King Daniel screams. 

I pause and put my sword in its sheath and offer my hand to the King on the ground. "Good. I'm glad we understand each other."

Daniel uneasily takes my hand and I squeeze it, helping the beaten king to stand. "I meant what I said, not a word about Alina. You are not allowed near her or to even speak of her. Get it through your thick skull, if you don't it will be me holding your pathetic life in my hands and your nation's crown."

“Is that a threat?” Daniel musters.

“It is a promise.” I hiss.

“We’ll see who comes out of this a victor, Crown Prince. Not only were your pathetic father’s peace talks a sham, so are your empty promises. I’m not stopping until I get what I want.”

“We’ll see about that.” I laugh, rolling my eyes. I walk off of the Training Grounds and into my private changing room and ignore the calls to come back.

All except for one.

“Kyungsoo!” Alina’s eager voice caresses my ears and I turn, catching my princess in my arms. Her legs wrap around my waist and her smile weakens me. She takes my face in her hands and kisses me. She rests her forehead against mine, not caring how sweaty or dirty I was. “You truly are amazing, love. You are.”

I set Alina down and kiss her hand. “It was my honor, darling.”

“I couldn’t possibly begin to find a way to repay you, Amorcito…”

Alina looks deeply into my eyes and my, my… She can make my world stop with her gorgeous, earth toned eyes. She nods softly with happy tears falling down her cheeks. I kiss each one, gently spreading kisses across her face until our lips lock. I lean her onto the wall and hold her body close to mine, enjoying each second of our connection.

“Princess… You are everything to me. Everything. There is  no need to repay me. I did this because I love you, and you deserve justice. I don’t care what that pathetic excuse of a man does from here on out, I will find a way to defeat him. You are my motivation. You are my reason, my love.” I helplessly confess in between soft kisses.

“Kyungsoo…” Alina wavers with unease. “So, the rumors are true. I heard your father in the stands discussing it with your mother. You’re becoming King.”

“News spreads quickly…” I mutter.

“What does… That mean for me? Considering your mother…”

I smile and get on one knee in front of Alina, lowering my head and kissing her hands. I look up at her and hope my response will soothe her anxiety.

“My Queen…” I whisper. Her eyes widen and I kiss her hands again. “I wouldn’t ascend without you, darling.”

“This is all so fast, and I don’t know if I could be a good Queen and… and… Kyungsoo!” Alina shouts as I lift her over my shoulder and into the changing room, locking the door. My lips brush onto hers with ease, I press her against the door and just focus on her lips and holding her close. I briefly take myself away from our kiss, as much as I didn’t want to.

“Love… You’re going to be the best Queen history has ever seen. I’m honored that it’s you that will be ruling by my side. What happened today on these grounds is just the start of my plans. We’re going to win this war and have peace. For our kingdom. For us.” I say gently onto her lips. I have to ease her into this or she’s going to crumble.

“But… It’s dangerous to do a public coronation now…”

“Don’t worry, I’ll take care of it all. We have to do this because my father surmised it would be better that I am in this position. Mother is eagerly awaiting giving up the crown. I’ll make you the happiest Queen to have ever lived. I know this is all incredibly fast but anything can happen in a time like this.”

“I know… I know. love you, my King.” Alina whispers in a sultry tone.

“And I love you, my Queen.” I whisper back, connecting our mouths again, “nothing and no one will ever get to you again. We’re not playing by anyone else’s rules anymore. They’re ours now.”

Ours.

I love how that sounds.

[sooinbloom]

The Kingdom of Us

Chapter 9

pairing: kyungsoo x OFC genre: Royal!AU, nonidol!soo, crownprince!kyungsoo, romance, drama theme: arranged marriage, modern royalty, enemies to lovers, war, betrayal, smut, fluff word count: 6,019 description: shortly after Kyungsoo and Alina get married, war breaks out and causes the couple to be completely devoted on military strategy and relief efforts respective. Alina tries to break free from her mental captivity, Kyungsoo finds himself in a difficult position when it comes to protecting Alina and possible peace talks with King Daniel. warnings: mentions of abuse, mentions of war and violence, smut

author’s note: hello dear reader (: Chapter 9 is here! I AM SO SORRY that I got into a bad writer’s block slump. I’ll do my best to keep this story updated. This story has definitely been a challenge but I’m happy to share it with you. It means so much that you’re still reading! Photos are not mine. Dividers by @saradika-graphics . Enjoy!

KYUNGSOO

The day of our wedding was one I’ll never forget. That moment in the garden is so special to me, because that night was the night I truly fell in love with my wife. I wasn’t certain until that moment that it was actually love and not pure infatuation. Having her in my arms every single night made me realize I didn’t want anything else. Unfortunately, we didn’t have much time to spend together after our wedding. Father started to step back from his royal duties once the threat of war became real and the bombs started to drop. It didn’t make much of a difference, most of my adulthood I’ve been a shadow king, doing everything an active king does anyway while being chief of military. Most of my time was spent meeting with the military and counsel for strategy because Father allowed cowardice to hold him back.

Smaller towns were bombed at our borders and that took most of my attention. Before we knew it, three months had gone by and our lives were consumed with the war. Of course, Alina was the first to volunteer with medical aid and coordinating relief efforts with our allies.

What bothered me is some Seoul critics were upset she was even at the front lines helping others, and not pregnant with my heir yet. The last thing I wanted to do was bring a child into a war zone, it was senseless. They seemed to think a child would bring hope to our people, when in reality all they want is to survive, not to glorify a royal child. It also bothered me greatly that many looked at Alina and didn’t see her strength or giving heart, they only saw her as The Crown Prince’s Beauty or only a means for the Doh Dynasty to continue. Opinions change rather quickly when things don’t go exactly to plan.

Unnecessary pressure started to build up for Alina, with most of it coming from Mother and male politicians that shouldn’t have even looked in my love’s direction. Alina was so much more than what they wanted her to be, and I refused to allow these people to pressure either of us into the next phase of our love story. An heir is the least of my worries at the moment, my priority is keeping Alina alive and with me.

Azteco kept inching closer and closer to the capital and the attacks were met with greater defense. King Daniel had a goal, and he wasn’t going to see it get recognized. It baffles me that a King with a wife would start a war over a Crown Princess and building an empire. He can’t have my Princess, I’ll die before he gets his filthy hands on her.

The most I saw of Alina was at night. We’d hold each other and forget a war was going on all around us. She gave me a peace I’ve never known, a love I’ve never felt. Her nightmares were getting worse night after night. I ordered more security for her if I couldn’t be with her, including assassins. I don’t want her to worry that something will happen if I’m not around, I wanted her to feel secure. I have still seen to it that she gets training in swords, from what I hear from Commander Jongin, she’s catching on fairly quickly and is more confident. What I really want is to have our lessons start again.

I placed General Junmyeon in charge so I can step back and spend some time with Alina. Now that I finally have free time, I decided to do all of the things we missed out on during the earlier months of our marriage. The entire day was spent in the garden, stealing kisses as we walked around the palace, and sharing a meal together. The sun set on a beautiful day, Alina and I were side by side at the entrance of our chambers.

“Let me carry you inside.” I mutter lowly, hoisting Alina into my arms and cradle her close to my chest. With a small shriek, Alina wrapped her arms around my neck as I carried her past the threshold. I shut the door with my foot and carry my wife to the comfy couch in the spacious living room. I trip and land on top of her, laughing with her at my own clumsiness. “I promise that I’m usually more coordinated than this.”

“Why did you carry me inside, amorcito?” Alina giggles.

I playfully pout and gaze down, my eyes slowly meeting hers in a soft and silent plea. I sit back on the couch and wrap an arm around Alina’s shoulders. “It’s what the husband does in the movies after he marries his wife… Something I failed to do.”

Alina laughs and yawns. “There’s a war going on, and you’re acting as King of our Kingdom. You did great, it was like a movie moment that I’ll remember for the rest of my life. What is… Why do our chambers look different?”

“Look around and tell me, Darling.” I smile, and Alina jumps up to her feet. I’ve planned this moment for weeks, adding the personal touches of Valencia to our chambers will hopefully make her feel more comfortable. It was hell getting the things from Mariposa to Seoul, Lisette had to help me with most of it. I follow her and try not to laugh at her soft gasps and how she keeps covering her mouth with her hand. The wonder in her eyes was adorable, she wasn’t expecting all of the personal touches.

“Is everything to your liking?” I smile down at her, she nods and excitedly smiles back at me.

“It’s beautiful. Are these bedsheets from…”

“Mariposa? Yes.” I smile, kissing her temple. Alina yawns again and separates from me.

“You are a secret romantic, aren’t you, Crown Prince?” Alina giggles under red cheeks.

“Perhaps I’m just madly in love with my beautiful wife,” I leave kisses on her cheeks and hold her close to my chest. I hold on to this moment, I know these moments won’t last much longer and I need anything to get through the trenches of war without Alina. She yawns one more time and I chuckle softly. “Princess, am I boring you?”

“No! No, not at all. I’m just so exhausted from the hospital and working with Ally Relief.  I would love nothing more than to just be in your arms and sleep. I’ve missed you.” She says while slowly walking over to the dresser to get clothes to sleep in. She holds a silk nightgown in her hands and my eyes widen. My mind starts to race with thoughts of her, but I know I have to hold myself back. As soon as she shuts the door to the bathroom, I quickly change my clothes and get into bed. Sheets from Mariposa were much more comfortable than ones from Seoul, and all I could think about was my wife and I tangled up in them. Alina enters the room and all I want is to take that nightgown off of her and-

“Kyungsoo? Are you okay?” Alina waves her hand in front of my face. My ears warm and I nod with an embarrassed smile. If only she knew the thoughts I’ve had of her since the intimacy we shared in my library… Alina settles on the bed and gets under the sheets.

“Comfy?” I ask while turning off the lights. A soft glow filters through the windows, the moon always favors my princess. Alina nods and cuddles closer to me in between the thick blankets and soft sheets. “Good. Now rest. We’re picking up our sword training again tomorrow morning.”

“I want to sleep in tomorrow, why are you making me do it? We haven’t seen much of each other in months, and this is how you want to spend our time?” Alina whines with a pout.

“Alina, you have to learn.” I kiss her forehead. “It’s important. Perhaps if you do well, a surprise will await you.”

“Hmm… You’re just enticing me. Fine, okay.” Alina rests in my arms and drifts to sleep. I lie awake with my princess in my arms, occasionally holding her tighter when her body tenses from the nightmares.

Halfway through the night, Alina wakes up with a whimper and shaking hands. I sit up and keep her wrapped in my arms, trying to calm her anxiety.

“Kyung…”

“Shhh… It’s okay, Darling. I’m right here.” I whisper. She gazes down at her arms and touches certain spots. Curiously, she looks at me with a look of shock dilating her pupils.

“They’re gone.” She whispers.

“What’s gone?”

“The… Marks… He left…” my blood gets hotter as I sit in front of Alina, my eyes focused as my determination grows to fix this for her. “Kyungsoo… I want him erased from my memory and my body. I want to be free… I want to… I want…”

“Alina… What happened in the dream?” I ask, rubbing her arms slowly.

“He… He…,” Alina squeezes her eyes shut as a blush blooms across her beautiful face, “You and I were in this room… You were… making love to me. Then after… He came and killed you and took me… Doing horrible things to me. I had marks and cuts everywhere like before…”

“Tell me where he hurt you, Princess.” I say softly. Alina reaches for my hand and places it on her forearm. “Here?”

“Yes.” She shakes nervously. I bring her arm to my lips and press them warmly onto her skin. My lips linger and then press in on her other forearm while my eyes stay focused on her.

“Where else?”

Alina sighs and I watch the fear escape her pleading eyes. She gathers her hair behind her neck and shows me her right shoulder. She lowers her nightgown strap and reveals a faint scar. My fingertips trace the scar, and I can feel her skin warm up at my touch. A million different things run through my head as I touch her. I need to cure her of these nightmares, these worries.

“I screamed for help and got this.”

Flames of anger burst all over my body, and I shake my head and pull her close to my mouth. I nervously lean down and leave kisses along the scar. My breath escapes my lungs as my lips hover above her collarbone.

“Anywhere here, Princess?” I breathe into her neck. Alina nods slowly and brushes her hand over her neck. “Your neck?”

“Yes…” Alina’s eyes eyes fill with tears. I didn’t even want an explanation of what happened. I can’t bear it. I begin to wipe her tears slowly with my thumbs. I bury my face in her neck as I obsessively kiss her skin in small, gentle pecks. My arms tighten around Alina’s waist and my mouth stops at her ear. Her breath catches and her voice shakes as she whispers to me. “What are you… What are you doing?”

“Erasing him from you,” I whisper back. I nestle my head in the crook of her neck again and my lips graze the length of her neck. “I won’t stop until every inch of you is free of him.”

I settle Alina in my lap without breaking eye contact. Loving her in the dark is a whole new thrill, because no matter how dark the room is, I can feel her eyes on me. The only light in this room is from the moon, giving Alina her usual glow that I obsess over. I kiss my way back up to her cheek and turn her face slowly, my mouth desperately meeting hers. She presses her chest against mine but her embrace is uncertain, her hands shaking as they hold my face.

“Tell me what’s on your mind, Princess.” I say softly, breaking our connection and resort to caressing her shoulder blade.

“The feeling of… Wanting more. How it feels so wrong to want more yet I am so afraid of this. The fact that I must give you a child,” She whispers, “I don’t want to disappoint you, Kyungsoo.”

“You don’t need to be afraid of me, or this. It’s not wrong to give in to your desires, Darling. We’ll worry about a child once this war is over. I don’t want our child to be born during a time of war. They deserve a peaceful world, and you deserve a beautiful pregnancy whenever you are ready to have our child. You tell me when you’re ready, not politicians or anyone else. Is that understood?” I explain slowly and gently, caressing her face as I speak to her.

“I am relieved you are on my side,” Alina sighs. I kiss her lips and hold her closer to me, my hands find their way through her hair.

“Darling, there’s no other place I’d want to be. Do you want me to keep going? Do I have your permission to keep kissing you?” I ask. Alina nods but I shake my head. “No, Alina. I want you to tell me yes or no. Use your words.”

“Yes, Kyungsoo. Kiss me.”

I nod and press my lips on hers, sweeping her hair away to fall down her back again to expose her shoulders. I want her to enjoy this, I want her to feel like she has a say in what she wants… That I will do everything she asks of me, I’m in her hands and at her every command. I press my thumb into her shoulder and part from her mouth. “May I kiss you here?”

“Yes.”

Once her skin touches my lips, her soft moan causes euphoria to burst in my brain. I press kisses across her chest. Small groans keep escaping her mouth, she’s giving in to her wants and that’s exactly what I need her to do. Her nightgown was an obstacle in my way, I wanted so badly to rip it off of her, but I knew that would make her panic. “Alina.”

“Yeah?” She rasps.

“May I take this off?” I ask hopefully. Her hands grip my arms and she nods.

“If I can take your shirt off.” She bargains nervously.

“Yes, you can, darling.” I smirk. I slowly expose her body to my eyes. I thought it was impossible for a woman to be perfect, but here I am with perfection in my hands. She carefully pushes my shirt off of my shoulders and I turn her slowly, laying her on our bed. I hover on top of her, leaving a trail of kisses from her lips to her jaw and keep kissing my way down until I get to the base of her neck. Alina groans and slides her fingers in my hair as I lower myself to kiss her chest, slowly inching toward her stomach.

“May I take these off of you?” I whisper while caressing her thigh, my mouth lingering on her hip.

“Please, baby.” That’s all I needed. I hook my fingers inside of her underwear and pull them down and off of her hips, delighted at the sight of her dripping wet for me. It’s a feeling of pride that I can do this to her body, that it’s me that she wants.

Alina reaches up and brings my eyes to meet hers. Her thumbs softly caress my lips. I grind against that perfect spot between her legs and hips, her knees rise and enclose me into her. We entangle ourselves in each other, our kisses getting needier. I reach my hand back and graze her leg, inching closer to the top of her thigh. I squeeze her flesh and become desperate to feel her around me. Alina moans in my mouth at the friction I repeatedly create. My fingers spread past her hips and before I could feel in between her legs, I feel Alina tense in my arms. I stop, pull my hand away and look down at my princess.

"Kyungsoo… Wait..." Alina whispers nervously, her hand resting on my chest. “I didn’t like that…”

"I’ll never do it again, darling. Whatever you want me to do, I’ll do.” I assure Alina and drop to her side. I nuzzle my face into the crook of her neck.

“I don’t know what I want…” her voice trails off and I know I’m losing her to memories. I have to get her back to earth before she has an anxiety attack.

“Then we’ll find out what you like. Just look in my eyes when you get scared. I’ll take care of you with every touch, every kiss, it’ll all be for you. You’re with your husband who adores you. We’re far away from the rest of the world in this moment. We’ll only keep going if you’re ready.” I whisper softly onto her skin. Alina’s breath becomes even, and her muscles relax with each word that comes out of my mouth. It pains me that Alina was traumatized over something that was supposed to be so beautiful between the two of us. I slowly stroke Alina’s hair and hold her close to my chest. I turn her head and kiss her quivering lips. I needed to calm her, make her feel safe. Alina relaxes in my hold. She turns to me and softly smiles with her hand on my cheek.

"I’m ready."

“Are you sure, darling?”

“Yes.” Alina nods calmly. I nod and quickly grab a condom from the bedside table. Alina watches me as I rip the foil and slide it down my length, almost clumsily returning to her. I line myself up at her entrance but Alina scoots back, becoming aware of what’s about to happen.

"Kyungsoo..."

"Look in my eyes, darling. It's me. It’s only me.” I soften my gaze. “I’ll go slow, baby. May I keep going?”

Alina nods and I capture her in a slow burning kiss. I whisper lowly, “Mmmm, Alina. Use your words. I want to hear your gorgeous voice.”

“Y-Y-Yes, Kyungsoo. Keep going.” Alina stutters back.

I slowly enter her, cradling her close enough to brush my nose against hers. My hands stay planted on either side of her head and her fingers grip my shoulders tightly. I hang my head, mesmerized by how she feels around me. I watch as her body reacts to me being inside of her. For a moment I admire her heavenly, beautiful face. “You feel heavenly, princess.”

I slowly bury myself deeper into her, taking my time to drown in her walls, wanting to satisfy her every craving. Show her that this is meant to feel good, that her wants matter. My mouth wanders her neck and chest, leaving deep purple marks that bloom on her skin like flowers. Her melodic moans bounce off of the walls and they’re such a pleasant gift to my ears. Every move I make causes shivers through Alina’s body. I watch her eyes roll then focus again. "Kyungsoo... Kyung… Kyung..."

“Good girl, you’re doing so well.” I praise. I can see the switch go off in Alina’s head as the words leave my mouth and she tightens around my length. I’ve always said this to her, but now it felt different. It was less innocent and more sensual. We’re lost in a kiss and Alina surprises me by wrapping her legs around me. She steadies herself and grips the headboard, I sit back and gaze up at her. Her gaze is blown with need, with desire.

“I want to… Keep feeling this…” she shivers as I keep guiding her back and forth.

“That’s it, princess. Do what makes you feel good. Take control of me.” I huff as she rolls her hips and grips onto my shoulders. I rest my hands on her waist, she doesn’t need any guidance anymore, just reassurance.

I’m entranced by Alina and how she grinds her hips on top of me. Her hands are pressed at the junction of my chest and shoulders, her fingernails indenting my skin. The look of pure ecstasy on her face engrains itself into my memory, she’s so beautiful when she’s feeling every single ounce of pleasure. I shutter at my building climax but want Alina to feel hers first.

I pull Alina down to kiss me and feel her walls tighten around me. I moan in her mouth, causing her to move faster and grip me tighter. Alina shakes with satisfaction as she grabs my arms, groaning louder and louder in my mouth. I chase this high; it gets closer and closer until we freeze, I hold Alina in my arms as we climax together. I open my eyes and watch her orgasm, relief and satisfaction overtake me knowing I didn’t hurt her. We catch our breath, and she reaches down toward me. Our lips entangle together and I willingly lose myself in her.  

"I made love to you, amorcito." Alina whispers. I slide out of her and kiss her cheek. 

"Yes, you did,” I nod, "You did so well, darling. How do you feel? Were you comfortable?"

“I feel good… I… I didn’t know I could… Do that,” She shyly admits, “I… loved that.”

I smirk and pulls her in for another kiss, I can’t get enough of her kisses. “My darling, you simply are my perfection. My reverie. I could indulge in you all night. I’ve said it before, you possess an intoxicating beauty… You’re perfect. You deserve every single ounce of pleasure that you felt tonight… And I’ll gladly give it to you whenever you crave it.”

“That… Sounds perfect.” Alina’s body shivers in my embrace. I’ve never been so willing to only focus on a woman’s pleasure before this. Of course, I had no complaints, but all I wanted was to make my wife feel good, to feel desired, that she had the control and not me. Not once have I enslaved myself to a woman and whatever she wanted, Alina really did wield a power of changing me and keeping me in the palm of her hands.

I get her up from bed, guiding her to the bathroom. I quickly slide the condom off, toss it in the garbage and turn my focus back to Alina. I start the shower for Alina to clean up and I prepare new clothes for her. She had the bedsheet wrapped around her still, sleepily smiling at me. I check the temperature of the water and nod to myself, bringing Alina closer to the opening. I gaze at her and she slowly removes the sheet from her body. Alina takes my arm and pulls me in the shower with her, resting me against the wall.

“Stay with me,” she pleads, a smile lifting the corners of her mouth. I push her under the water and it hits her body, my hands cascade her outline. I take her body wash from the shelf and grab a soft cloth.

“I’m right here, princess.” I whisper. I wet the cloth and clean up the mess we made between her legs. She groans under the water and goosebumps arise on her skin at my touch. After I finish, I take another cloth and lather her body wash on it, rubbing her skin with the soap bubbles sliding down her back. I place her under the water and wash the bubbles away, Alina smiles at me and wraps her arms around my shoulders. “Thank you for being so patient with me.”

I nod and hold my wife, sighing. “Anything for you, my princess.”

The next morning was like a fog. Alina woke me with kisses, the sweetest way to wake up. It didn’t take long to get tangled up in each other, which in turn made us late for her sword drills. I didn’t mind, she wanted to make love, so we did. Twice. Seeing Alina let down her guard with me was a victory. I wanted to stay in bed with her all day, but we had to make sure she was ready for anything. Once we got out of bed in the afternoon and got dressed, we went to the training grounds together. I watched Alina confidently take the sword into her hand and smile sweetly at me.

“I think you need a challenge, darling.” I smirk.

“Give me all you got, Crown Prince.” Alina smirks back.

“Let's see what Commander Jongin taught you.” I quickly step forward, but Alina pushes me back with her hand, so I turn and our swords clash. We spar back and forth and her skill impresses me. I shouldn’t be surprised but watching her has me in awe. I have more confidence that she could hold her own if she ever needed to. We keep training and she starts to tire me out.

“Yes, that’s it!” I shout over the clashing of our swords. Alina was getting quite good at her swordsmanship. She was now able to defend and attack much quicker and is light on her feet. She holds the sword over her head and stops me from swinging my blade downward at her. I relieve the pressure and we return to a neutral stance. “Now, don’t lower your guard. Because I can easily…”

I knock her sword out of her hand. Alina scrambles and attempts to retrieve it, but I kick it out of the way. I reach for Alina and pull her in front of me. She gazes back at me, the look in her eye tells me she’s concluding that she’s done for. “Kyungsoo, this is impossible. If this ever happens, I will certainly die!”

“No, you won’t. Remember, study me. Where are my weaknesses?” I order, seriously overtaking my voice. “Look beyond your fear, you are in control of this situation even if your opponent tries to make you believe otherwise.”

Alina nods and the wheels start turning more as she studies me. Suddenly, she reaches down and grips onto my wrist. She turns and pulls me to the ground, my sword clanking onto the ground next to me. My Princess straddles me and holds my hands above my head with an accomplished yet devious smile. With wide eyes I look up at her, clearly entranced at how fast she’s picked up her skills. I also couldn’t help but desire her, loving how she felt on top of me.

“You catch on quick,” I huff, smiling. “We’ll end it here for today. Let’s get dinner.”

“Sounds perfect for such a victory.” Alina grins, sliding off of me and helping me to stand.

I still can’t believe she’s mine.

Alina appeared in the doorway of the kitchen with a curious look on her face. I turn to fully view her and almost drop my knife. Her sun kissed skin was glowing in a light blue dress, the short sleeves hugging off of her shoulders with a lace up chest. The dress fell down to her calves, the bodice showed off her curves in all of the right places. Alina’s hair was loose and flowing down her back in its natural curls… My God. I did my best to hide my physical reaction to her with hot cheeks, looking down and focusing on chopping vegetables while monitoring what’s frying on the stove.

“What are you up to, my dear husband?” She asks sweetly, leaning onto the door frame. I try to focus on anything else other than her right now. Her body. Her voice. I quickly finish the vegetables and plop them into a bowl next to the stove.

“Making us dinner, darling.” I manage to croak out. I look up and Alina is laughing to herself.

“I didn’t think a Crown Prince would like to cook,” She comments, “So it’s true, you’re secretly a chef.”

“It’s no secret.” I laugh. Alina sits across from me at the counter, her chin in the palm of her hands.

“Tell me what got you into cooking. I had heard the rumors, but what is the truth? Did you really sneak into the kitchen as a child and beg the cooking staff to teach you?”

I laugh at this rumor, shaking my head. “That is definitely not how it happened. I was about ten years old. My grandfather was in his garden, picking vegetables. He lived so simply once he handed my father the throne, I enjoyed spending my time with him. He’d said to me, Kyungsoo my boy, come with me to the kitchen. I’m going to teach you another art that the Doh men have passed down for generations. I was curious and wondered what he meant by that. He then spent every weekend showing me how to prepare traditional foods, and most foods from other kingdoms. We did this until he passed away. My fondest memories are with him, and I have him to thank for my cooking passion.”

Alina tilted her head with a smile. “Our grandparents had such an impact on us, didn’t they?”

“They did, yeah.” I agree. Alina gazes at me, her eyes softening when she fixates onto me.

“I only met your grandfather once, when I was five. He was so nice to me. I remember that he gave me candies when my parents weren’t looking.” Alina giggles. “You have his smile.”

“He would have loved you now, princess.” I nod. I lean over the counter and leave a kiss on her forehead, then leave another on her plump lips. I turn back to the stove and finish cooking our meal and turn the stove off, mindlessly making my way to Alina. I hold her close from behind and caress her arms. Alina cuddles close to me and I’m enjoying the closeness we share. I shiver at my darkening thoughts, attempting to regain my composure. Alina turned in my embrace and pecked my lips. “Now go, get settled. Let’s enjoy our time together, darling.”

I watch Alina walk away and focus back on the task at hand. I plate our meal and walk carefully to our living room. I enter into the room with a plate full of carefully crafted Valencian foods that I made by hand. I can tell that the aroma welcomed Alina with nostalgic arms. I carefully put the plate down on the table and sat next to Alina, watching her face light up at the familiar foods in front of her. Beef empanada with freshly chopped lettuce and tomato with lime waft into Alina’s senses, her smile is so big that I know I got my plan just right.

"How did you know this was my favorite, Kyungsoo?" Alina asks with wide eyes. "You made all of this for me?"

"I know a few things. I know Queen Mother made them for you when you were a child." I reply while picking up an empanada. I feed it to my wife, and she sighs with happiness. “How is it, close to Queen Mother’s?”

“Mmm,” Alina nods, swallowing. “She’d kill you if she heard you call her that. She was Beatriz unless she said otherwise.”

“I met her once, and only once. She cared a lot about you, Alina. She was also very terrifying.”

“Abuelita? No way.” Alina giggles. “I need to hear about this. What did you do?”

“Ah, so I had to have done something?” I chuckle, feeding Alina the last half of the empanada. I lean back and start to tell my somewhat terrifying story. “I was nineteen. Queen- Excuse me, Beatriz, came to visit Seoul and to visit with my parents. She didn’t care about anything else but me the entire time she was here. She spent all of her time with me, asking me questions, interrogating me almost. I’ll never forget what she told me to this day. She said although she thought the betrothal was absurd, out of all of her granddaughters, you were the best option for me. That if I didn’t cherish you, protect your heart and love you, she’d kill me or find a way to get me killed.”

“Huh, such good advice and you didn’t follow it until three weeks before our wedding.” Alina giggles, feeding me an empanada. “You obviously weren’t that scared of her.”

“In my defense I was nineteen and stupid. I hadn’t met you yet. I found myself thinking of Beatriz’s words, and she was right. I can’t be cold to you. All I want is to give you the most beautiful memories. I want you to enjoy this life. Enjoy it with me."

“I can do that.” Alina agrees, smiling.

As we eat, I listen to Alina’s stories of Beatriz and her childhood in the Valencia palace. I noticed when Alina was telling a story, she’d use her hands to help her describe something in it. She giggled as she talked, her eyes looked as though she was reliving the memories in her mind. I could get lost in this moment and stay in it forever if it meant that her eyes would be this bright all of the time. She’s adorable when she’s so animated and comfortable like this. 

"... And I learned that day that deer weren't pets but woodland creatures that belonged in the forest." Alina chuckles. “When this war is over, I want you to see the Mariposa castle, I have so many fond memories there.”

“I’d love to see it.” I smile, leaning against the couch to gaze at Alina. Suddenly, my phone rings. Annoyed, I take it out of my pocket and read the caller ID. General Junmeyon? He only calls if it’s an emergency. “My apologies, darling. I have to take this.”

“It’s alright, I understand. I’ll be reading in the library if you’d like to join me.” Alina smiles, giving me a quick kiss and heads out of the door. A dread fills fills me. Something was wrong, but I couldn’t quite place it. I walk into my study and shut the door behind me.

“General, this better be good or…”

“Your Highness, we have a major threat to security to the Crown Princess. King Daniel and the Azteco Military Generals are en route to Seoul for peace talks with King Bonhwa. He did not inform us until this evening. At your word, we’ll get extra military security.” General Junmyeon instructs, my heart drops. Alina can’t even have a happy moment in her life without this asshole trying to ruin it for her. I’ll be damned if I let that happen.

“What the hell is my father doing? Now he wants to involve himself in this war? I accept your advisory. Please detail extra security. Have all maids and personnel out of the wing.  No one goes in or out unless approved by me. I want guards and coast guard patrolling 24/7. Send me Lieutenants Jongdae and Sehun. I need my best trained assassins to protect the Crown Princess. Is that understood?” I growl into the phone.

“Yes, Your Highness, right away.” I hang up the phone and pace the room. I have to be calm for her and explain everything so she won’t have a breakdown when she sees Daniel again. What is his motive? Why is he wanting to come here to settle peace talks so quickly? Something isn’t adding up. Is this all a plan to get Alina? Should I hide her? Frustrated, I shove all of the piles of paperwork off of my desk and onto the floor. Why can’t Alina just have a peaceful life? She doesn’t deserve any of this. I groan and leave the study and head to the library. As soon as I walk in, I find Alina asleep on the couch, a book resting on her chest. She must be exhausted from the day, and part of me is relieved she’s asleep. I don’t want to ruin her brief moment of happiness. She doesn’t deserve it. I’ll just have to figure out what to do about this tomorrow.

All I can hope for is that Alina won’t feel like I blindsided her with this.