In the shadow of the crown

by Kanabeae

Summary:

Beomgyu, an omega prince, spent the night with the alpha responsible for the destruction of his kingdom. Years later, fate brings them together again, this time, as a family of three.

Notes:

Prompt: BM038

“Now.” Beomgyu’s father called, his voice trembling and face flushed as he wiped his palms on the silk of his myeonbok. “Remember my words.”

Beomgyu spared him a bored glance, turning his head while resting his chin in the palm of his hand.

The man’s eyes shifted then, something akin to annoyance and disappointment as they locked eyes. “You cannot disgrace me now Beomgyu. Not in the face of the emperor.”

How stupid did he think Beomgyu was? He knew of the emperor’s reputation—that he was a man who did not let things go easily. So why would Beomgyu be so idiotic as to get on his bad side?

At the insinuation, Beomgyu nearly scoffed but somehow managed to control his face, simply turning his head to glance outside of the palanquin, shutting his eyes as a breeze blew through the square window.

Inhaling deeply, Beomgyu grimaced.

It didn’t smell that great—a bizarre mixture of spices and decay. Though…it’s to be expected of a country dealing with the repercussions of war.

Darting his eyes around, Beomgyu’s face remained still, simply examining the people as they slumped against their small abodes, the straw roofing of their huts burnt and collapsing.

As their servants carried Beomgyu and his father further into the town, the quality of living didn’t improve a whole lot, but these people didn’t look as ghastly. By that, he meant he was actually able to tell that they were wearing white clothing and their houses didn’t look like they were about to cave in on them while they slept.

From the moment they entered the land, the village people froze, either staring at him in awe or pleading for some kind of help. It was a little unnerving to tell the truth, so Beomgyu turned away, not wanting to meet their eyes any longer. There was nothing he could do for them anyways.

It was probably about another hour of having to deal with the smell that they passed the village and Beomgyu could finally look out the window again.

This time, he was graced with the sight of luscious greens, spanning so far up that it blocked out the sun.

Another breeze swept through the window, and Beomgyu took a deep breath, releasing a satisfied exhale as the scent of nature filled his nose.

The gentle winds continued to blow, making his loose braid flutter against his back as the silks of his hanbok swayed against his legs, the light blue fabric rippling as if it were made of water. He could feel his norigae fluttering as well, the jewels on it clanking together gently as if to match the melody of nature.

It was… peaceful. The feeling was similar to when he sits in the gardens back home. Nothing but the scent of the sea, the sound of the leaves brushing together, and the warmth of the sun. There was nothing like it, being able to lose yourself in its beauty and forget about everything else.

Destroying his peace was the scent of his father’s troubled pheromones, a gross mixture of charcoal and burnt starch, as they neared the palace.

Scrunching up his face, Beomgyu brought his hand to his mouth in disgust. “I don’t think smelling like burnt rice is a way to leave a good impression.”

With a sharp glare, “Silence! I do not want to hear a word out of you until we leave this place.” The man looked out the window with a scowl on his face. “With any luck, I can find you an alpha here that way I do not have to bring you back with me.”

At that, Beomgyu’s face went blank as he turned away from the man he was supposed to call his father. A man who has done nothing but insult and ridicule him since the moment he came into existence, smelling of soft honey and warm milk.

“You will do as I say. You never have before, but you cannot get into trouble here, do you understand me?” Said the man and, for some reason, it only tempted Beomgyu to do the exact opposite.

Beomgyu didn’t answer and it earned him a swift kick to the leg, drawing a hiss past his lips.

Looking at his father with a scowl, “I understand. You really find me so ignorant as to mess with the emperor? ”

The alpha squinted at him, “I too am an emperor and it never stopped you before.”

Turning away with a huff of annoyance, Beomgyu held his tongue. It was pointless to argue with the man. 

“We cannot afford to get on his bad side.” Added the king, a tremor in his voice. “We may be royalty, but his army outnumbers ours. We will hear what he has to say, sign an agreement, then be on our way.” He finalized, and Beomgyu simply hummed, not wanting to speak seeing as it would only annoy his father further.

Gazing at the trees as they passed, Beomgyu’s mind began to drift.

Choi Yeonjun…

He was known for conquering territories, fighting for reasons unknown to everyone but the emperor himself. He was a dangerous man. One that you wouldn’t want to cross.

Yet, somehow, that made him all the more intriguing. 

A man who wasn’t afraid of death. A man no one could read or even begin to understand.

It shouldn’t have intrigued him as much as it did, but Beomgyu found himself thinking about Choi Yeonjun for the remaining hour it took to arrive at the palace.

Placing a hand over his heart, Beomgyu realized it was beating faster than normal. Nerves probably. He was about to meet one of the most dangerous men in their country after all.

Taking a deep breath, Beomgyu grimaced again at the scent of his father’s nervous pheromones filling the small space.

In his opinion, it was unbecoming of an emperor to be so afraid but telling him that would probably earn him a slap across the face, so Beomgyu did what he did best and held his tongue.

Approaching the grand governance hall where the emperor waited, Beomgyu made sure to smooth out the wrinkles on his skirt before following after his father. 

The servants followed after them as well as their guards, standing tall as they walked up the stone steps towards the main building.

Guards were stationed outside the entrance. They took one glance at Beomgyu’s father then bowed deeply before moving to either side of the two doors and pulled them open.

Upon the doors being opened, an air draft hit Beomgyu head on, blowing his skirts gently and making his hair flutter behind him. All it took was one inhale for Beomgyu’s entire body to stiffen, his eyes widening as his body registered the scent of an alpha, rooting him to the spot.

With trembling hands, Beomgyu caught his father stepping inside from his peripheral vision. He had to swallow down whatever it was that he felt in that moment before following after him, his head held high and hands clasped in front of him.

The further he walked, the stronger the scent got and it nearly made his knees buckle right then and there. It was frightening but also addicting. Something he found made his stomach curl with heat and his skin flush pink.

Despite holding his head up high, Beomgyu’s eyes were lowered slightly to ensure he didn’t meet the emperor's gaze.

Taking careful steps, Beomgyu stopped when his father did and it was only after he spoke, “Your royal highness,” That Beomgyu bowed deeply, his hands still clasped at his lower abdomen as his heart thumped anxiously within the confines of his chest.

For a moment, there was nothing but silence and the permeating scent of the emperor. It grew stronger by the second, leaving Beomgyu’s heart pounding a little bit faster.

Then, a raspy voice—not as deep as Beomgyu expected, echoed throughout the hall. “I take it your journey was fine.” Spoke the man from up above.

Beomgyu was still in a deep bow while his father quickly began engaging in conversation. “It was marvelous. You truly have the most gorgeous land in the entire nation.” Praised his father and Beomgyu squinted his eyes with disgust upon hearing the blatant lie.

Their province was much prettier. It smelt better too.

The emperor, Yeonjun, hummed with disinterest, his scent growing even stronger which led Beomgyu to swallow thickly.

He truly did have an addicting scent.

“You.” Yeonjun called out, making Beomgyu stiffen. “Omega Prince.” He clarified, and Beomgyu’s heart leapt into his throat, his hands instinctively tightening in front of him as he slowly lifted himself from his bow.

Once he stood tall, Beomgyu tentatively lifted his gaze, tracing the golden steps which led to the throne until he caught sight of a silk myeonbok, a deep red with gold embroidered in the seams.

Following the silk, Beomgyu’s eyes fluttered in awe, until finally, he met the emperor's eyes.

It was instantaneous, the way his heart stopped for a second and the way his stomach churned with heat. Yeonjun’s eyes were thin, sharp and fierce as he stared into Beomgyu’s doe eyes.

He was resting his head on his fist, his eyebrows lifting upon meeting the prince’s gaze. When Beomgyu saw his eyes travel down his form, that heat in his belly quickly began to gather between his legs, leading Beomgyu to take deep, calming breaths.

When Yeonjun fitted his gaze back onto Beomgyu’s eyes, his lips stretched into a subtle smirk, as if he knew exactly what kind of effect he had on him.

“Did you have a pleasant journey?” He questioned and Beomgyu swallowed thickly, gripping his hands tightly at his front as he willed himself to speak.

“It was adequate.” Letting out a shaky breath, “Your highness.” He spoke airily, unable to completely mask the effect the man had on him.

He took a steady breath, exhaled heavily, then allowed his eyes to lower into a sultry stare.

He knew it was wrong.

He knew it was dangerous. Yeonjun was dangerous.

But seeing the emperor's eyes cloud over with lust, a clear telling that he was willing to indulge in Beomgyu’s sick fantasies, he felt that familiar thrill. One that washed over him everytime he went against his father’s commands. 

Everytime he did something dangerous.

It was always a guilty pleasure for Beomgyu. Disobeying his father.

And for this particular situation, Beomgyu knew it would bring him more satisfaction than anything he’s done thus far.

 

❦

 

Late into the night, long after they joined the emperor and a few other nobles for a small banquet, Beomgyu threw a filthy gaze at the emperor from across the table then silently stood out of his seat and walked out of the room.

He made his way outdoors, counting down the minutes as he waited.

When he heard the doors slide open, followed by a quiet dismissal of the guards, Beomgyu’s body flared with nervous heat and it only amplified after hearing, “You do realize the festivities are indoors. ”

Diverting his attention from the stars, he turned toward the entryway, feeling his heart pick up speed at the sight of crimson robes and sharp eyes. Eyes which slowly traveled down, taking in Beomgyu’s form.

Coyly, Beomgyu tilted his head. “I wasn’t sure you’d follow me.” He spoke, making sure to keep his voice leveled even though he felt like his heart was about to burst out of his chest with how nervous he was.

In his twenty three years of living, he’s seduced many alpha’s but none of them have ever been so menacing . There have been thugs just as there have been cruel men. Yet none of them frightened him as much as the man walking towards him.

A man who’s killed many. A man who brought ruin to any country that not only threatened his power but any country that irritated him.

It was common knowledge that Yeonjun was a cruel emperor. Various scrolls have told him that the alpha once obliterated a small town because a tiny animal tried attacking him on his way out. 

Stories like those were the reason Beomgyu knew that one wrong move could mean the desolation of his country and, possibly, his death.

So why?

Why did the thought bring such an addicting thrill down his spine? Why did he crave a man he knew could kill him if he so much as breathed wrong?

Yeonjun took one last step, standing directly in front of Beomgyu with a knowing look in his gaze.

Beomgyu’s chest was heaving, a mix of fear and excitement forcing his body to tremble and his skin to flush with heat.

Yeonjun’s eyes fell to Beomgyu’s covered neck and the omega held his hands tighter against his front, eyeing Yeonjun closely as the alpha lifted a hand.

“You’re a real beauty.” Muttered Yeonjun, meeting Beomgyu’s eyes as the tips of his fingers brushed against Beomgyu’s cheek. A feather light touch, but enough to have Beomgyu’s breath hitching and his cunt dripping.

Yeonjun’s lips lifted into a delicious smirk, staring down at Beomgyu with heavy-lidded eyes. “Very…” Yeonjun whispered, dragging his fingers down to Beomgyu’s jaw. “ Delicate.” He lifted his thumb and, forcefully, he dug his fingers into Beomgyu’s jaw, not to where it hurt, but with enough pressure to lift Beomgyu’s chin up so their faces were closer.

Beomgyu’s chest heaved, heavy breaths slipping past his lips as he furrowed his brows faintly.

With a squint, Yeonjun gripped his jaw a little tighter, his eyes sparking with interest when a soft sound escaped Beomgyu’s lips. “Omega’s like you.” He whispered, leaning in until his plush lips were brushing against Beomgyu’s ear. “They’re easy to break.” He whispered and the hot wisp of his breath along with his words made his body quiver.

“Is that what you want?” Beomgyu hesitantly asked, unsure if Yeonjun wanted him to speak or not. “To break me?”

The emperor tilted Beomgyu’s head to the side then nuzzled his nose against the area behind his ear, drawing another shiver through him as he furrowed his brows.

Almost possessively, Yeonjun’s hand slipped from his jaw down to his throat, wrapping his hand around the side so he could stroke Beomgyu’s Adam's apple with the pad of his thumb.

“I think you know what I want.” Yeonjun grit, pressing his thumb into Beomgyu’s windpipe hard enough to hurt. Moving back to his ear, “Do not ask pointless questions.” He muttered, digging into his neck harder as a show of dominance.

The flare of pain had the area between Beomgyu’s legs throbbing, his skin buzzing with need as he stood stone still, waiting for Yeonjun’s permission before he put his hands on him.

Squeezing his eyes shut, Beomgyu trembled when he felt Yeonjun’s other hand on his hip. “Ok.” He breathed, clenching his hands together tightly at his front as he allowed Yeonjun to do whatever he wanted.

Shockingly, Yeonjun removed his hand from his neck and pulled away from his ear.

Nervously, Beomgyu cracked his eyes open, swallowing thickly when he was met with Yeonjun staring into his soul.

“What are you doing?” Yeonjun questioned, gripping his hip tighter as a silent telling that it would be wise for Beomgyu to tell the truth.

With a shuddering exhale, Beomgyu tried to reel in his thoughts. “I want to be good for you.” He breathed out, feeling anxious by the sudden shift in Yeonjun’s demeanor. As if he were upset that Beomgyu was willing to do whatever he wanted.

Then, startling him, Yeonjun grabbed his other hip then shoved him back until he rammed into the railing behind them, drawing a pained hiss past his lips as he reached out to grab Yeonjun’s shoulders for support.

There was a dull ache resonating in his lower back, a pain that distracted Beomgyu from the fact that he was touching the emperor.

Widening his eyes, Beomgyu met his gaze then quickly removed his hands, bracing them on the wooden rail behind him. 

Yeonjun’s eyes turned steely as he leaned in close. So close that his angry breath wisped against Beomgyu’s lips and brought a sinful ache to his belly.

“Stop that.” Yeonjun all but growled and Beomgyu furrowed his brows, overwhelmed by the pain in his back and the desire pulsing through his veins.

“Stop what?” He breathed, gripping the rail tighter when Yeonjun let out a shuddering exhale.

“Show me that confidence from earlier.” Yeonjun took a step closer, sliding a hand along the curve of Beomgyu’s waist to draw him closer. Beomgyu let out a small gasp and Yeonjun shook his head from left to right, seemingly in restraint. “Do not hold back just because of my title.” His fingers dug deeper into Beomgyu’s waist, making him whimper under his breath.

Did that mean…he could-

Swallowing thickly, Beomgyu slowly removed his hands from the rail, gazing into Yeonjun’s lust-filled eyes as he brought his hands to the emperor's face.

He was still hesitant, but the way Yeonjun’s eyes seemed to spark with excitement gave Beomgyu the final push he needed to place his palms on each side of Yeonjun’s cheeks.

Instantly, Yeonjun’s eyes fell shut, as if he were dying and Beomgyu just gave him life.

All it took was Beomgyu smoothing his hands across Yeonjun’s face for the man to let out groan, tilting his head to press his face harder against Beomgyu’s touch as if he craved it.

Furrowing his brows, Beomgyu felt his confidence spike. Now knowing he could touch him, Beomgyu allowed himself to give in completely, the consequences be damned. 

Smoothing a hand back, Beomgyu’s slipped his fingers along the back of Yeonjuns head, all the way up to the top of his head where his hair was pulled back. 

As if in a daze, Beomgyu watched the emperor nuzzle against his palm. 

Mesmerized by the display, he undid the tie holding Yeonjun’s hair up, watching the inky black lockes fall over his eyes. 

Yeonjun’s eyes cracked open and Beomgyu didn’t even get the chance to brush his bangs out of his face before the man leaned down and captured his lips in a bruising kiss, dragging Beomgyu’s closer by the waist and letting out a muffled groan when Beomgyu’s hand slipped into his hair, his nails gently scratching his scalp as he arched his body into his.

Everything about it was mind numbing. The feeling of his tongue pressing against his own as he looped his legs around the emperor's waist. The hot press of his hands as he gripped Beomgyu over his silk robes, carrying him through the dimly lit halls until they ended up in a room that Beomgyu didn’t even care to take in. Not when he was being lowered onto soft silks and aromatic pillows, gasping when the emperor sat between his parted thighs and began tearing his clothes off of him. 

Truthfully, the night was a little fuzzy after that. A culmination of the cheongju he drank over dinner and the sleep deprivation from his week long journey in a wooden box. Though, there were certain moments of their lovemaking he couldn’t forget, even if he wanted to.

 

❦

 

With a fistfull of his hair, Yeonjun yanked Beomgyu’s head off the floor, forcing his back to arch as Yeonjun slammed into him from behind.

With hands clenched around the silk sheets, Beomgyu blearily gazed back at him, his mouth parted, releasing a cracked moan every time he felt Yeonjun’s cock press inside of him, splattering the slick from his rim all over the back of his thighs.

“How does it feel? Taking it like some kind of whore.” Yeonjun drove his hips in and Beomgyu’s entire body shuddered, back arching even further as he squeezed his eyes shut. 

It was addicting. The rush Yeonjun gave him. Belittling him and using him until he was no better than everyone else.

Like this, on his hands and knees, with no other option than to take it however Yeonjun wanted, he wasn’t a prince. He wasn’t a noble. And he certainly wasn’t innocent like his father constantly reminded him to be.

No.

He was free.

Powerless.

And he liked it that way.

“A- ahh y-yes.” Beomgyu sobbed, clenching around Yeonjun’s shaft as he came untouched for the second time, his cum splattering all over the silk sheets as his mind blanked, unable to move his body as his muscles quivered. 

Yeonjun was relentless with his movements and only fucked him harder, slamming Beomgyu’s head back down into the sheets so he could grip both of his hips and drive into him even harder.

“F-fuck.” Yeonjun grit, digging his fingers into Beomgyu’s hips, hard enough to bruise, as he thrusted again. Harder. Until Beomgyu was incapable of making any sound at all. 

His hands were too weak to grip the sheets so he simply laid them flat against the silk, his eyes barely cracked open and mouth open wide. There was drool slipping out the corner of his mouth, wetting his chin and soaking the cloth beneath him but he couldn’t close his mouth. Not when Yeonjun was fucking him into overstimulation, rubbing the head of his cock so deliciously against his prostate, drawing endless shudders and twitches from him as he took it all.

“Fuck. Fuck. Fuck!” Yeonjun voiced with each harsh thrust into his hole. 

Shuddering, Beomgyu rested his cheek against the wet silk, eying Yeonjun from over his shoulder as the man watched his cock disappear into him with each thrust.

“C-cum inside of me.” Beomgyu shuttered, clenching around Yeonjun just to see the way his jaw tensed up.

With one harsh thrust, Yeonjun paused, resting his rod deep inside of him as he met Beomgyu’s eyes. Then, grinding slowly, “Is that what you want?” He smoothed his palm along Beomgyu’s lower back. “For me to fill you up?” Yeonjun slowly began to pick up the pace. “Want me to stuff you full of my cum- ” He thrusted harder, sliding his palm around his waist to press his hand into Beomgyu’s stomach. “Pump you full of my pups.” He groaned, pressing his hips down so he could feel the way his cock made Beomgyu’s stomach bulge ever so slightly.

Squeezing his eyes shut, Beomgyu moaned louder than he has thus far, nodding mindlessly as he felt the brutal press of his shaft dragging in and out of him, the pressure from his hand against his stomach making him flare with heat, every inch of him burning as he nodded— begging for it.

Then, making him lock up, was a hand gripping the back of his neck, pinning him to the floor as the rhythm of his thrusts became frantic. “Say it.” Yeonjun panted, gripping his neck so hard that pain flared all the way down his spine. “ Say it.” He repeated, making his hole tighten around Yeonjun’s hard shaft.

Again, Beomgyu cried out, more drool slipping past his lips as he gazed at Yeonjun through the hair that fell over his eyes. “F-fill me. Nghhh f-fuck me u-until- ahh until- ” His lips wobbled, tears filling his eyes as the grip on his neck tightened.

Yeonjun let out a loud moan, the crude sound of wet skin meeting filled the quiet room along with Beomgyu’s sobs. 

“Until what?” He groaned, holding Beomgyu’s wobbly legs upright as he pounded into him.

“Until I’m pregnant.” He sobbed, squeezing his eyes shut as shame flooded his system. “ F-fuck me until I’m pregnant.” He begged, fisting his hands into the silk fabric when his hips were drawn back roughly onto Yeonjun’s dick, the force of the impact making his skin ripple. Then he felt it, a rush of fluid filling him from the inside, making him clench around Yeonjun once more, milking him clean as the tightness in his belly unraveled, making him lock up as another orgasm was ripped out of him.

Yeonjun released choked sounds of pleasure, releasing his neck to stroke the curve of his waist with both hands. “Prepare yourself.” Yeonjun panted but Beomgyu’s mind was too fuzzy for him to process his words, which meant he wasn’t prepared for the way Yeonjun’s knot began stretching him wide.

Wide eyed and overwhelmed, Beomgyu widened his eyes, trembling with both pain and pleasure as he felt their bodies being locked together.

Of course, that was only the beginning of his night with the emperor, but little did he know how much he would come to regret it.

 

❦

 

3 and a half years later

Swallowing around his dry throat, Beomgyu held his round basket at his hip then reached up to pick the hanging omija berries off the vines. He lost track of how much time had passed, all he knew was that there were blisters on his hands, his lips chapped, and he was starting to feel faint from so many hours spent in the heat.

Dropping the berries into the basket, he lifted his hand to collect more, only to stop midway when he heard a voice in the distance.

“Ba!” They called and Beomgyu immediately spun around, holding his hat atop his head as he squinted at the sight of his son in the arms of a man.

Getting a better look, Beomgyu’s heart warmed significantly.

Taehyun.

When did he return?

Despite the exhaustion weighing on his mind and body, Beomgyu cracked a sweet smile and immediately began walking towards the two.

Crossing the dancing field of grass, Beomgyu smiled at the alpha holding his son in his arms.

“Ba!” He greeted, holding out a flower with half of the petals missing. “For you!” He cheesed and Beomgyu used his free hand to accept the flower with a smile.

“Just what I needed!” Beomgyu cheered, leaning in to bump foreheads with his son, being sure to rub their noses together before he turned to the man who held his son on his hip.

With a smile, “Taehyun, when’d you get back?” 

Just when the alpha opened his mouth, “He just got here!” His son announced, throwing his hands in the air. “And he smells gross.”

Unable to resist, Beomgyu laughed at his words, nodding in the direction of their small house. “Let’s go then, we can all wash up together.” Beomgyu suggested, shooting a sneaky smile in Taehyun’s direction. A look that the alpha received with raised brows and a flirty stare.

Together, they trekked across the remaining fields of wheat and muck as Taehyun filled him in on his latest fishing journey.

By the time they walked through their rotting wooden hut, Beomgyu found himself happier than he’d been all week, compelling him to place a chaste kiss on Taehyun’s cheek before giving one to Taehyun’s grandmother 

You see, she was an ill old lady. Incapable of speaking or doing anything really, so, when Taheyun found him all those years ago hiding on the back of his boat with the intent of escaping the mainland, they struck a deal.

Beomgyu would take care of Taehyun’s grandmother while he was out at sea and take over all of her old responsibilities. Picking and selling omija berries, cleaning the house, washing their clothes, collecting water and repairing the house…among other things. There were still all of the responsibilities that came with being a parent. A task he found to be more challenging than the time he had to repair their roof after a thunderstorm nearly sent it caving in on them.

While he was juggling all of those responsibilities, Taehyun would go out to sea for months at a time, catching his fish and selling it to various merchants along the coastline. Thankfully, Yeonjun wasn’t one of the buyers. None of the emperors were. Just random people dying of starvation who needed an immediate fix.

At first, the two of them were nothing more than two people who rarely ran into one another, but then Beomgyu learned he was pregnant and things quickly shifted. Taehyun shifted his fishing rounds to weeks instead of months, offering to aid Beomgyu in taking care of the house as well as his grandmother.

In that time, you could say they’ve become close friends. 

Friends who occasionally fuck and help each other through their mating cycles because they have no one else. Yet, even despite how intimately he and Taehyun knew each other, there weren’t feelings involved. Sex with Taehyun simply felt like another favor.

Not that he was complaining. It was just a bizarre arrangement.

“Gyubin?” Taehyun called just as Beomgyu began pouring a bucket of boiled water into their bathing barrel.

That was another thing.

Despite the fact that he trusted Taehyun, he never revealed his true identity, his royal status, the dynasty he came from, or…

The father of his child.

At first, it was a matter of trust. But the years quickly passed until trust didn’t matter anymore. He simply…didn’t want to be Beomgyu anymore. 

He didn’t want to be someone who caused trouble everywhere he went. He didn’t want to be someone who constantly wished hell on those who pissed him off. 

Choi Beomgyu…he wanted to kill him. 

So that’s what he did, fully embracing his new identity of Lee Gyubin. Peasant born. Someone who fled once war plagued his land.

Though…in the dark of the night, away from prying eyes, Beomgyu allows his mind to wander. Back to a time where he didn’t have to worry about if he’d have enough food for the week. When he would wake up and immediately be lavished with new silks and shimmering jewels. Though, it wasn’t just the luxuries that he missed—no, it was the cruelty. The way he was constantly filled with so much rage and aggression. At least then, he had an excuse for the way he constantly yearned for a bit of danger.

Now, living in some of the most dangerous conditions imaginable, he ached for it. Something that would make his heart pound with adrenaline and send that addicting thrill down his spine.

The warmth of the steaming bathwater drew him out of his thoughts, drawing a mischievous smile onto his face as he lifted his brows at the alpha in front of him. “Are you gonna get in?” Beomgyu asked coyly, gently swishing his hand around the steaming water as Taehyun began to strip in front of him.

“As long as you join me.”

“Me too!” Called his son, already peeling off his stained white robes so he could jump in the barrel.

Chuckling, Beomgyu shook his head at their antics, untying his robes and allowing his clothes to pool at his feet. Bending down, gripping the edge of the barrel, he hopped inside, meeting Taehyun’s eyes just as the alpha lifted his son in his arms.

“Come on.” Beomgyu beckoned, feeling his stomach coil with warmth at the sight of Taehyun’s bare skin. “I need help washing my back.”

 

❦

 

Sighing, Beomgyu tapped his index finger on his thigh rhythmically, waiting outside of the old tea shop as he waited for the owner to meet with him. 

It was a common routine. Carrying a wagon into town to sell their omija berries. It wasn’t an awful experience, but the owner of the tea shop made it excruciating with his constant attempts at seduction. Beomgyu entertains him, only because he’s afraid he won’t do business with him if Beomgyu were to say his touches and vile comments made him uncomfortable.

So, with another deep sigh, Beomgyu opened his eyes, panicking for a moment when he didn’t see his son, only to deflate when he saw him across the way, his tiny hands perched on a table with various baked goods on display.

It left him aching inside, feeling guilty that he couldn’t give his child something as simple as a piece of sweetened bread when he used to throw tantrums when his treats didn’t have enough jam on them.

Blinking away the sting in his eyes, Beomgyu trudged across the dirt path. “Minjun.” He called out, feeling his heart break even more when his son turned around, gazing at him with wide eyes. 

Solemnly, Beomgyu nodded back at the tea shop. “Let’s go.” He spoke, trying to sound excited, but his son didn’t share the same sentiment.

Eyes which resembled a very fierce emperor gazed at him with sadness as he nodded in agreement.

He wrapped his tiny hand around Beomgyu’s and, just as they began crossing the street, “Ba.” He called, drawing Beomgyu’s attention down. “What do they taste like?” He asked, curiosity and despair lacing his features which left Beomgyu’s entire body aching.

Tightening his lips, Beomgyu furrowed his brows with remorse. “It makes you sleepy.” He replied, smiling sadly when Minjun’s features twisted in confusion.

“ Sleepy? But why?” 

Shrugging, Beomgyu guided him back towards the outside of the tea shop. “It just does.”

“But why?” He asked again, pulling a sigh out of Beomgyu.

Looking down the street, “I don’t know dear but-” Beomgyu started but immediately went silent when he saw a familiar set of eyes behind one of the other stalls. 

Both of their eyes widened when they spotted each other but Beomgyu quickly averted his gaze to the ground, his heart thudding in his chest as various people walked past him, hopefully hiding them from those eyes.

Those eyes…Beomgyu could never forget them. 

Not when his son had the same exact ones.

Yeonjun.

He found him.

With a constricted throat and racing heart, Beomgyu immediately turned on his heel, dragging his son behind him as he searched for a place to hide. Anywhere. 

If Yeonjun saw Minjun-

“Ba?” Minjun questioned as Beomgyu quickly ushered him to hide in the small alley beside the tea shop.

Bending down, Beomgyu stared at him wide-eyed and frantic, squeezing his shoulders tightly as he said, “Listen to me. You stay here and don’t come out no matter what.”

Now afraid, his son blinked at him, clearly confused. “But why?”

Squeezing his shoulders tighter. “Dear, I need you to listen to me.” He begged, hoping the three year old could comprehend how serious he was.

With a quick nod, Minjun agreed, his lips jutting out as tears welled in his eyes.

It left Beomgyu’s heart constricting in his chest but he had to swallow down his hesitation and move out of the alley before someone— Yeonjun saw.

Once he stepped back into the sunlight, Beomgyu instantly darted his eyes in the direction he last saw the emperor, his heart dropping when he didn’t catch sight of him.

Was it all in his head?

Swallowing nervously, Beomgyu took a step back, then another.

Just as he spun around to walk in the opposite direction, he rammed into someone, his eyes widening at the scent clinging to the person’s clothes. A scent so distinct that he could remember it even after three years apart.

“Careful.” A voice spoke, low and taunting, which rattled Beomgyu’s bones. “I once destroyed someone’s life after they bumped into me.”

Shivering, Beomgyu took a stiff step backwards, craning his head up with fearful eyes as he met the sharp gaze of the emperor, eyes just as captivating as he remembered them to be.

Feeling a chill run down his spine, “How…” Beomgyu breathed, bringing his hands to his apron as he shook with terror.

Wickedly, Yeonjun smiled at him, though, in his eyes there was no real humor. Just sick pleasure.

“I’ve been searching for someone.” Yeonjun took a step closer and Beomgyu was rooted to the spot, unable to move as Yeonjun slowly inched closer. “An omega that I shared my bed with-” He breathed, taking one more step so he could tower over Beomgyu. “-I wanted to speak with him, yet he ended up disappearing, leaving my sheets cold when I returned from battle.”

Gritting his teeth, Beomgyu fixed his stare on the ground, rage and fear overwhelming him but he could do nothing but grip his stained clothes in a white knuckle grip.

“Maybe it’s because you sent an army to overthrow his kingdom right after bedding him.” Beomgyu grit, his voice bubbling with rage as he shook beneath Yeonjun’s intimidating presence.

Humming, Yeonjun reached out to grab his chin, forcing Beomgyu to look up and meet his gaze.

Glaring at him, Beomgyu took in the angry look in Yeonjun’s eyes. “You don’t sound nearly as thankful as you should be.” Yeonjun announced and the sincerity in his words pushed Beomgyu over the edge.

Furrowing his brows, Beomgyu smacked Yeonjun’s hand away, loathing his touch after everything he’s done.

Yet, just as he opened his mouth to speak, they were being surrounded by people he assumed to be civilians, all of them drawing their swords and pointing them at Beomgyu for smacking the emperor's hand.

Again, fear settled in his gut, his heart racing as he eyed the sharp metal being pointed at him.

“Guards.” Beomgyu muttered, swallowing thickly and trembling even harder than before.

“I’m the emperor.” Yeonjun leaned closer. “Did you really think I’d-”

“Appa!” A small voice cried, cutting Yeonjun off and making dread seep into every inch of Beomgyu’s body.

No.

Horrified, Beomgyu whipped in the direction of his son’s voice, furrowing his brows when he saw Minjun running towards them, tears streaming down his face.

The boy tried running past two of the guards but one of them quickly snatched him, making Beomgyu shout a blood curdling, “ No!” At the soldier.

Reaching an arm out, Beomgyu was stopped by a few other guards shoving a sword at him in warning.

Feeling tears brim in his eyes, Beomgyu shook his head frantically. “No. Let him go! Please he-”

Stealing his attention was a hand on his shoulder, grip tight and strong, forcing Beomgyu to whip around with a pleading stare.

Behind him stood Yeonjun, his expression even angrier than before and even more dread washed over him.

No.

Don’t ask.

“How. Old is he?” Yeonjun grit and Beomgyu paled, hating the way he trembled violently.

“Ba.” His baby called, drawing his attention back to his son as the guard held him against his chest. Not in a way that could hurt him but in a way that wasn’t comforting in the least.

The grip on his shoulder tightened until suddenly he was being whipped around, a hand clamped around his jaw once again, forcing him to look Yeonjun in the eyes.

“Answer me.” Yeonjun breathed, not raising his voice, but, somehow, that was more frightening.

Shaking in his hold, Beomgyu felt the tears in his eyes slowly fall. “Three.” Beomgyu breathed, watching as Yeonjun’s stoic face seemed to crack with emotion. Shock, anger, disbelief. A variety of emotions swarming in his steely gaze.

For a moment, the grip on his chin tightened, drawing a wince from him before he was being shoved back.

“Let go of the child.” Yeonjun demanded, and the guard instantly obeyed, lowering Minjun onto the ground.

Ignoring the pain in his jaw, Beomgyu whipped around, crouching down as his son came running to him with a sob, wrapping his tiny arms around his neck to bury his head in Beomgyu’s scent gland.

“Shh.” He consoled, his voice equally shaky as he lifted Minjun off the ground. “I-it’s ok.” Beomgyu reassured even though he wasn’t sure what the outcome of their run-in would be.

Maybe a public execution?

At the thought, his heart rate shot through the roof.

Slowly, Beomgyu turned to meet Yeonjun’s eyes, fearing the way the emperor appeared slightly rattled upon discovering he’s been a father for three years.

Beomgyu knew the emperor didn’t take lightly to lies, so he knew nothing good would come out of this. Still, he hoped that somewhere in his heart, he would spare Minjun—their son.

He watched as the ruler lowered his gaze onto their child and Beomgyu instinctively tightened his grip on the boy when Yeonjun’s lips tightened in disdain. 

“You mean to tell me.” Yeonjun took a step closer, his eyes darting to Beomgyu’s. “You not only ran from me, but you kept my son hidden for all these years?” He spoke, voice dripping with anger but also shock.

Swallowing thickly, Beomgyu held Minjun tighter. “Y-you destroyed my home. Imprisoned my father.” Beomgyu scowled. “How could I trust you with a baby? My baby? ”

Quickly, Yeonjun took another step, invading his personal space. “ Our baby.” He growled, his eyes crazed and lips thinned, bringing more fear to the omega who turned Minjun away from Yeonjun.

Angrily, Yeonjun shook his head, clearly wanting to say more on the subject but instead he straightened out, lowered his gaze onto their child and said, “Take them to the palanquin.” He met Beomgyu’s eyes. “They’re returning with me.”

In horror, Beomgyu widened his eyes, his heartbeat loud in his ears as he stumbled closer to Yeonjun. Ready to plead with him—get on his knees if he had to, but before he got the chance, two guards grabbed onto his shoulder, yanking him back and making tears well in his eyes.

“No, your highness!” Beomgyu called, his voice cracking when he saw Yeonjun turning, giving them his back as he began walking in the opposite direction. 

Shaking with equal amounts of anger, fear and panic, Beomgyu struggled to get proper oxygen.

He couldn’t go back.

What about Taehyun? What about Grandma Jae? Sure it wasn’t much, but they built a life here. It’s where he’s raised his son. Where he learned to be independent. Where he could be free.

So, to suddenly be ripped away from it, forced to return to a life of lavish clothing, restricted freedom and a dangerous man, Beomgyu didn’t know what to do with himself. What could he do?

Feeling the tears dribble down his face as the guards began dragging him and Minjun away, Beomgyu gave one last shout.

“Yeonjun!” He called, gritting his teeth when the emperor stopped then slowly looked over his shoulder.

For a moment, he thought he managed to garner some empathy, but the man simply gazed into his eyes for a few seconds before fixing his attention on Minjun and that same stoic expression fitted over his face, leaving Beomgyu feeling hopeless.

Then with a rough squeeze and harsh tug on his bicep, “You will address the emperor by his proper title.” Spoke one of the guards as he pulled Beomgyu away even faster, a feat that was easy considering Beomgyu had no fight left in him.

There was nothing he could do anyways.

Not if he wanted to keep Minjun safe.

Stroking his son’s head, Beomgyu squeezed his eyes shut, allowing his tears to fall freely as he tried to accept what was happening.

It wasn’t easy, but by the time they hauled them into Yeonjun’s palanquin, he found that he only wished for one thing.

To say goodbye to Taehyun and Jae.

Cradling a sleeping Minjun to his chest, Beomgyu turned to look out the small square window, gazing at the fields of green.

Without control, more tears filled his eyes, the thought of leaving his new life behind gripping his heart painfully as he eyed the scenery.

Taehyun-ah, please don’t panic. We’ll find a way to survive…

Just as we always have.

 

❦

 

“Appa!” Cried the boy, running towards Beomgyu with tears in his eyes…eyes which looked a frightening amount like Yeonjuns…

Gritting his teeth, Yeonjun continued reading through a scroll sent by the ministry.

It’s been a week since he brought Beomgyu and the child back to the palace, and he hasn’t caught sight of them since that fateful meeting in the town’s center.

Truthfully, he’s been searching for Beomgyu since the moment he ran away. There was something about the omega—something addictive and mind altering, that he simply couldn’t let go of. Hell, after one night with him, Yeonjun knew he wanted to keep him in his grasp and he was willing to do whatever it took to keep him for himself.

So, when Beomgyu mentioned how suffocating it felt in his home, under his father’s watchful eye, Yeonjun waited for him to fall asleep and sent an army to seize control over Beomgyu’s home and arrest his father.

Yet…when he returned, the omega was gone, leaving him with no other option than to hunt him down.

He expected Beomgyu to be ecstatic over the fact that he was free, so when they reunited and the omega threw it in his face, Yeonjun felt angry.

Couldn’t he see that he did it for him? If it weren’t for Yeonjun, Beomgyu would probably be miserable, living with his father and forced to marry an alpha thrice his age. Yeonjun gave him an opportunity at a life full of freedom. Where he could do anything he wanted— have anything he wanted…so long as he stayed by Yeonjun’s side. Yet he chose to run away and live a life of poverty.

With a tight jaw, Yeonjun turned his head, cracking his stiff neck as he tried to focus on the annoying words of his ministry.

“...people fear for their lives. Once again we request you rethink our proposal to-”

The sound of a creaking floorboard drew his attention away from the paper. His eyes snapped upwards, squinting when he saw a small head try to hide behind the entryway.

The child…

Discomfort quickly settled in his gut, his lips dropping into a scowl as he realized it was his child that interrupted him.

“Reveal yourself.” Yeonjun demanded, his heart pinching uncomfortably as he watched the small boy emerge from behind the wall, dressed in silk robes that looked tinier than anything he’s ever seen. Deep blue—the color of a crown prince.

Tightening his lips, Yeonjun felt his brow twitch when the boy met his gaze, only to fearfully avert his attention back to the floor, clearly frightened by his presence.

Blinking, Yeonjun for the first time in a long time, didn’t know what to do, leaving him barking out orders before he could stop himself. “Speak.” He raised his voice, tightening his jaw when Minjun flinched.

“Um.” Minjun murmured, his voice squeaky and sounding just as vulnerable as he looked.

It did something to Yeonjun. Left him feeling strange and unsure which only made him more irritable.

“Well out with it.” He spoke, throwing the scroll onto his desk as he eyed his son.

Suddenly, Minjun lifted his head, his fearful eyes meeting Yeonjun’s as he asked, “Are you my papa?”

Startled, Yeonjun furrowed his brows, that same discomfort in his chest twisting violently as he cleared his throat. 

Clenching and unclenching his fist, Yeonjun hardened his stare. “I am your father.” Yeonjun corrected, the statement leaving him feeling more than he’d care to admit.

Across the room, he saw the way the child practically lit up, his eyes sparkling and his lips lifting into an unabashed smile.

Yeonjun clenched his fist tighter.

Clearing his throat, “If that is all-” 

“Do you wanna play with me?” Minjun cut in, rushing towards Yeonjun’s desk with an openmouthed smile, leading Yeonjun to jolt back and furrow his brows.

Not only did this child come into his office without permission, he also interrupted him while he was in the middle of speaking. No one did that.

Pinching his brows, Yeonjun glared at the tiny human, watching it closely as he came running around Yeonjun’s desk.

When he realized the child was trying to approach him, Yeonjun quickly darted out of his seat, pointing a finger at him.

“Do not get any closer.” Yeonjun grit, irritation bubbling in his chest when he saw the boy freeze, his smile dropping a fraction before growing even wider.

“Is this the game?” Minjun asked, balling his hands and bending his elbows with excitement. “Let’s play!”

Once again, Yeonjun felt at a loss for words, meaning his first instinct was to assert some kind of dominance over the child.

“This is no game.” Yeonjun squinted, looking down on the boy who barely reached his knee in height. Straightening his back, Yeonjun exerted some of his scent. “Emperors do not play and princes shouldn’t either.”

Below him, Minjun blinked with confusion before tilting his head. “ Pwince?” He spoke slowly, testing out the word. “What’s that?” 

For a moment, Yeonjun simply stared, the innocence of the child baffling to him—a man who’s never been around anything so pure— so free-spirited and full of untarnished happiness. A child.

His child.

Clenching his jaw, Yeonjun debated on how to go about this. 

With the war going on in his chest, his first instinct was to snap at him, yet…seeing his innocent curiosity, Yeonjun decided to take a different approach.

“It’s what you are.” Awkwardly, Yeonjun straightened out his posture. “A prince.” Yeonjun eyed him closely as he finished with, “The son of the emperor.”

Once again, Minjun’s eyes turned confused and Yeonjun almost let the impatience get the better of him. That was until the boy lit up with excitement, bundling closer which led Yeonjun’s face to scrunch up.

“That’s you!” Minjun called, reaching out to tug on Yeonjun’s red robes but he quickly stepped back, bending down and holding out a hand to prevent him from touching him.

“Yes that is m– do not touch that.” Yeonjun called, reaching out to grab his small arm before he could grab onto the golden letter opener.

Huffing, Yeonjun tugged him away from the desk, leaning forward to push the sharp tool out of his reach. “You fool. Do you know how sharp that is?” He chastised, lowering his head to look at Minjun, faltering when he saw him tucking his lips in with a repressed smile.

Awkwardly releasing his arm, Yeonjun tried hardening his expression. “That isn’t something to laugh about.” 

Nodding, the boy let out a chuckle. “Sorry papa.”

Again, Yeonjun’s expression faltered, his chest tightening uncomfortably to the point where he instinctively snapped, “Do not call me that.”

Nodding, the boy tilted his head again, his tiny brows furrowed with confusion as he eyed Yeonjun skeptically. “Why can’t empopers play?” 

Caught off guard by the sudden question, Yeonjun squinted at him, memories of his own upbringing coming back to him. Moments where he seeked his father out only to get a back hand across the face. 

“You are my son, you are not to play but to learn how to become a respectable ruler!”

Hardening his expression, “ Emperors don’t play because they are meant to be respected.”

Again, Minjun looked like he didn’t understand a word that he said, switching his attention to Yeonjun’s robes. 

“Wow, it's sparkly!” He announced, once again reaching out to grab Yeonjun’s silks and this time he allowed it, lifting both of his arms with disgust as if it were some kind of stray animal touching him and not his son.

Tightening his lips, Yeonjun rubbed his fingers against his palms, watching as Minjun lifted his robes to look at the gold embedded in the silk. Then, as if struck, the boy froze, his eyes widening as he bent forward to sniff him.

“It’s like Ba’s.” Minjun said, a little awestruck as he lifted his head, his nose still buried in Yeonjun’s robes as he smiled with his eyes. “Your smell is like Appa’s!” He spoke again, his eyes turning to crescents as he held Yeonjun’s clothes against his cheeks.

It unsettled Yeonjun deeply—the fact that Minjun could smell their connection through his scent alone. It also made him think about Beomgyu, the one who birthed the boy rubbing his face against Yeonjun’s clothes and he couldn’t help but see the resemblance.

Minjun had Beomgyu’s nose. Maybe his face shape too. But there were also traces of Yeonjun. In Minjun’s eyes and hair. To be frank, it was the strangest feeling—seeing something that looked so much he did but more delicate.

His child.

When Minjun pulled his face away, Yeonjun’s hand twitched, as if he wanted to reach out but he couldn’t find it in him to move because-

What good could come from him touching something so delicate? So easy to break.

Lowering his hands at his sides, Yeonjun schooled his expression, fixing an emotionless stare onto the boy.

“You have your answer, now leave me be.” Yeonjun spoke, moving his leg out to push him back yet somehow Minjun took that as an invitation to wrap his arms around his leg, leaving Yeonjun glaring at him with a troubled look in his eyes.

“You are not to touch me unless I say so.” Yeonjun grit, scowling when the boy giggled.

“Papa, you talk weird.” Minjun said, quickly releasing Yeonjun’s leg to stand grinning up at him. “But I’ll listen!” He spoke loudly, clearly trying to mimic Yeonjun and it left the emperor speechless once again.

Blinking down at the three year old, Yeonjun could only see excitement. Not fear or apprehension. Just happiness.

The realization left his throat closing up, his eyes wavering as he gazed at his son with pinched brows.

Yeonjun opened his mouth, only to shut it when he heard a loud cry of, “Minjun!” From down the hall, the voice hauntingly familiar as it reached Yeonjun’s ears, leading him to thin his lips as he waited for the owner of the voice to come running through the doorway.

“Min-” Beomgyu called, rushing in front of the entryway only to freeze when he locked eyes with Yeonjun.

Quickly, Yeonjun scanned his appearance, noting how disheveled he looked.

Just how long was the child missing?

Despite his winded appearance, Yeonjun still found him to be the most stunning man he’s ever laid his eyes on. One that was able to capture attention from a mile away. 

Beomgyu’s lips immediately drew thin before parting with a gasp when he saw Minjun peek his head out from beside the desk.

“Minjun!” Beomgyu called, rushing inside without a care about Yeonjun’s authorization.

Crouching on the floor, Beomgyu cradled Minjun’s head in his hands, his face angry but also relieved. “What did I tell you about running off?” Beomgyu chided, gently scolding their son who tried explaining himself.

Watching the encounter, Yeonjun felt out of place. Like he was somehow intruding despite it being his office they were inside of.

Still, he watched, oddly enamored with Beomgyu’s interaction with Minjun.

It was clear that he cared for him a lot. More than Yeonjun could ever understand. 

To receive a love like that…he didn’t know whether he craved it or loathed it. Either way, he was determined to keep them by his side regardless of their feelings towards him.

They were his.

His family.

His duty.

His.

When Beomgyu stood off the floor, he picked Minjun up with him, holding him protectively on his hip as he glared his way.

It only left Yeonjun’s stomach heating, the thrill that Beomgyu induced in him all those years ago stronger than ever now that the omega no longer held himself back—glaring and shouting at him every chance he got.

“What were you doing to him?” Beomgyu questioned, his voice trembling but his stance strong.

Squinting, Yeonjun cocked his head. “I wasn’t doing anything to him.” Yeonjun answered honestly.

“Liar!” Minjun called, drawing both of their attention to him as he furrowed his brows at Yeonjun. “You were playing with me!” 

The declaration left Yeonjun’s face scrunching up with confusion. 

Playing?

“Princes shouldn’t lie either.” Yeonjun chastised, his voice turning rasped as he hardened his gaze.

Jutting his lips into a pout, Minjun tilted his head down sadly. “But we were playing…”

It was then that Yeonjun realized the child may have misinterpreted what was happening when he tried pushing him away with his leg. Something he couldn’t fault him for, but at the same time the implication that he played with a child left him feeling the need to snap at someone.

Assert dominance.

Frowning, “We were not. It’d be wise of you to stop saying we were.” Yeonjun spoke, his eyes shifting to Beomgyu when he pulled Minjun closer to his chest.

“Must you speak to him that way?” Beomgyu hissed.

“Papa.” Minjun called and Beomgyu’s eyes widened.

“Papa…” Beomgyu repeated in a mumble, disbelief fitted across his face as well as concern.

Again, the title felt too warm. Too informal and sweet that it made Yeonjun’s skin crawl while also bringing unwanted heat to his chest.

“Father.” Yeonjun corrected, ignoring the glare Beomgyu sent his way as he watched the joy on Minjun’s face dampen. 

Beomgyu’s hand smoothed across Minjun’s back, trying to soothe him and Yeonjun felt his stomach churn when Beomgyu began backing away.

“We’ll be on our way then.” Beomgyu grit, his tone making Yeonjun’s chest ache with something close to regret.

Meeting his gaze, Yeonjun kept his face neutral. “So soon?”

Beomgyu’s glare sharpened. “ Yes. It’s clear that neither of us want to be in this situation.”

Not true.

“Papa, are you eating with us?” Minjun cut in, stealing Yeonjun’s gaze.

For a moment, he simply stared, eying the hopeful look in Minjun’s eyes that were a clear reflection of Yeonjun’s own.

Lowering his eyelids, Yeonjun deliberated, yet the only thing he found himself wanting to say was yes.

Tightening his lips, Yeonjun met Beomgyu’s eyes, enamored by the fierce look in his wide eyes. “Dinner will be at sunset. In my quarters.” Turning away from them, Yeonjun took a seat at his desk, returning his attention to the scrolls on his desk. “Dress accordingly.” He added, his tone dismissive as his eyes scanned the words of the ministry.

Scoffing, Beomgyu began walking away.

He knew the omega didn’t think highly of him so he wasn’t surprised that Beomgyu walked away without so much as a hum of acceptance. He was, however , surprised when he heard Minjun shout, “Bye papa!” Once again stunning Yeonjun into silence.

His hands twitched against the paper, his expression faltering as he forced himself to keep his eyes on his work and not lift them up to acknowledge the voice of his son.

That was a sign of weakness…

Clearing his throat, Yeonjun pulled himself back together, ignoring the pinch in his heart when he heard Minjun’s tiny voice echo throughout the hall. A soft question of, “Does papa not like me?” That left Yeonjun unable to focus on the words on the scroll, too preoccupied with the sinking in his chest— guilt.

 

❦

 

Angrily, Beomgyu stormed into the library, Minjun in hand as he huffed for the nth time.

Since he was forced into the palace against his will, Beomgyu had zero intention of meeting Yeonjun or allowing Minjun to spend time with him. A man as cruel as he didn’t deserve to spend time with their son—a child filled with love and joy. 

Sure, deep down he had hoped the emperor would at least find it in his heart to be kind to his own son, but he knew it was just wishful thinking. He was just like every other ruler—cruel to their children without a care for their delicate feelings.

The way his son’s scent turned sad everytime Yeonjun spoke to him roughly or corrected him on how to act, it reminded Beomgyu too much of his own upbringing, something he never wanted Minjun to go through. But now that he’s taken the role as the crown prince, Beomgyu couldn’t help but worry about what the future had in store for the boy.

Scoffing again, Beomgyu guided Minjun to the sofa, sitting him down in hopes of cheering him up with a story.

“Wait here my dear.” Beomgyu smiled, tapping his nose once.

“Ba.” Minjun called before he could walk away, “Why’s papa so scary?”

Flinching, Beomgyu furrowed his brows, crouching on the floor to look up at him. “What do you mean?” Then, urgently, Beomgyu cupped his cheek. “Did he do something to you?”

Still appearing dejected, Minjun shook his head softly. “He didn’t smile at all and- and his voice sounds scary when he says things.”

Sadly, Beomgyu smiled, understanding dawning on him.

It was a delicate topic, one he had trouble trying to explain, especially to a three year old who only wanted to spend time with his father.

“Oh honey, he’s not mad at you , he’s just-” Pausing, Beomgyu thought back on his first conversation with Yeonjun. The way he had practically begged Beomgyu to touch him with such a strange look in his gaze. Then hours later, when they laid together in his silk sheets, he felt Yeonjun holding him so close. As if he were starved for his touch.

“I think your dad is just sad.” And lonely, Beomgyu thought to himself, smiling solemnly as he watched Minjun’s eyes go wide with concern.

“Then…we should make him happy.” He offered, drawing a fond laugh from Beomgyu’s chest as he stroked his cheek lovingly. 

“My sweet boy.” Beomgyu cooed, lifting himself off the floor. “How about we talk more about this after we read a story?” 

Excitedly, Minjun nodded. “I wanna hear about pwinces!” He claimed, making Beomgyu’s expression waver for a moment before he nodded in agreement.

In the end, Minjun fell asleep against the sofa and by the time he woke up, their earlier conversation was long forgotten, replaced with Minjun’s excitement to have dinner with his papa.

 

❦

 

Cracking his neck, Yeonjun felt something stir in his gut.

He hasn’t had a formal dinner with anyone since…

His mother.

Fluttering his lashes, Yeonjun rubbed his palms on his robes, feeling more uneasy as he realized it wasn’t just some random nobles he was dining with, it was Beomgyu and their son.

He-

What was he supposed to do? He couldn’t remember how dinners with his family usually went, which meant they couldn’t have been good. So…did that mean he still needed to exert his dominance here? Or was a family dinner an exception for him to allow himself to relax.

No. 

He couldn’t relax. Never. He’s the emperor.

Shaking his head, Yeonjun chastised himself for even thinking about it.

Before he could come up with a full proof plan on what to do, one of his guards came in, announcing their arrival, forcing Yeonjun’s heart to kick start in his chest as he eyed the entryway.

He just needed to be how he normally was. An emperor. 

Yet…watching Beomgyu walk through the entryway, dressed in a way that accentuated his beauty, their son’s hand clasped tightly in his own as they made their way towards the table, Yeonjun didn’t feel like an emperor.

Controlling his expression, Yeonjun nodded, his stomach doing flips when Beomgyu nodded at him briefly before turning to their son.

“Papa!” Called the child, his smile wide and his body thrumming with excitement. “Will there be bread?” He asked, catching Yeonjun so off guard that he had to blink in confusion.

“What?” He spoke, eyeing the way Minjun’s body bounced with glee. “You know, the bread that smells really sweet and makes you sleepy!”

Furrowing his brows, Yeonjun glanced at Beomgyu, squinting when he saw the omega staring sadly at Minjun, something guilty in his gaze.

It rubbed Yeonjun the wrong way, reminding him that they lived in poverty all of these years.

So much so that Minjun’s never had sweetened bread…

Tightening his lips, Yeonjun snapped his fingers, keeping his gaze on the two of them as the server came rushing to his side.

“Your highness.” Bowed the beta male.

Meeting Minjun’s sparkling orbs, “I want you to bake one of every dessert in our recipe books and have them delivered before the end of our meal.”

“Uh- yes your highness.” Spoke the server, immediately running in the direction of the kitchens to try and tackle Yeonjun’s request.

Across the room, Beomgyu stared at him with confusion, his hand tightening around Minjun’s own as he guided him to their seats.

“What’s desgert?” Minjun turned to Beomgyu, excitedly sitting on his stack of pillows at the end of the table opposite to Yeonjun.

Just as Beomgyu opened his mouth, “It’s a treat you eat after a meal.” Minjun turned to him with wide eyes, clearly still not understanding. “You wanted sweet bread, didn’t you? Now you’ll get to try every sweet this nation’s ever known.”

Seeing Minjun’s beam with happiness, planting his tiny hands on the wood table to smile at Yeonjun, made his heart do a funny thing, once more bringing an awkwardness to him that he didn’t know how to shake.

Bouncing on his pillows, “Papa will I really get to try it?” He asked excitedly, and Yeonjun rolled his shoulders back with uncertainty.

“Yes.” He spoke, trying his hardest to sound stern despite the tightness in his throat. 

“What does it taste like?” Minjun beamed.

Humming, Beomgyu rubbed his shoulder. “You’ll just have to wait and see.” 

Seeing the two smile at each other, that same discomfort took root in Yeonjun’s heart. The kind that left him rubbing his hands on the silks of his robes, hidden from everyone else’s eyes.

They said a few more things to each other, something he couldn’t catch due to the distance between them and that’s when Minjun suddenly turned to Yeonjun.

“Papa, why’re you so far away?” 

Freezing, Yeonjun willed himself to control his expression. “It’s customary.”

The child tilted his head, a void look in his eyes that told him that he didn’t understand. “We’re a family though…” He spoke with a pout, once again sending Yeonjun’s mind reeling. “That means we have to sit close.” Minjun suddenly turned to Beomgyu. “That’s what Taehyun always said.”

Instantly, Beomgyu stiffened, going a bit rigid as he shot Yeonjun a nervous glance and the emperor felt something nasty boil in his gut.

“Taehyun…” Yeonjun slowly voiced, rubbing the pad of his thumb against his fingertips. Licking his teeth, “Who is that?”

Beomgyu seemed to straighten out, blinking rapidly as he moved a hand onto Minjun’s lap, clearly trying to tell him to stay silent and that only irritated Yeonjunf further.

Excitedly, Minjun grinned at him. “He lives with us! He’d always bring yummy fish and take baths with us!” He spoke, unknowingly unlocking something dark in Yeonjun’s heart as he parted his lips with a harsh glare.

Fixing his stare onto Beomgyu, Yeonjun’s anger escalated when Beomgyu avoided his gaze.

“Baths…” Yeonjun licked his teeth. “Tell me, Beomgyu…” Yeonjun’s gaze sharpened when Beomgyu lifted his head, his eyes fearful and he couldn’t help but think he should be afraid. Afraid for whoever this Taehyun was. “Who is this man?”

Clenching his jaw, Beomgyu’s eyes turned steely. “You leave him alone.” Beomgyu grit. “He took care of me. Took care of our son.” Beomgyu growled, leaning over the table only to relax after he spared a glance at Minjun. “You leave him alone.” He repeated, quieter than before and it prickled Yeonjun—the fact that someone was telling him what to do.

Silently, Yeonjun gazed at them, disturbed by the existence of this Taehyun but unsure about what to do about it.

“I’ll leave him be.” Yeonjun said, watching the way Beomgyu practically deflated while still staring at him with complete distrust.

“No, let’s invite him!” Minjun called, drawing a frown onto Yeonjun’s lips as he took in how much his son seemed to like him.

“No.” Yeonjun growled, ignoring the way Minjun’s face fell to instead snap his fingers at the other servers, ordering them to bring out the food.

“…Did that make you sad?” Minjun asked and Yeonjun snapped his head in his direction with a squint.

“What?”

Pursing his lips, Minjun stared then slowly shook his head. “Nothing.”

Yeonjun turned to Beomgyu for some kind of explanation, but the omega was avoiding his eyes, clearly trying to ignore him.

It made his brow twitch and his lips thin. 

What the hell was he supposed to do to get Beomgyu to just talk to him. If he did, he would see that all Yeonjun has done was for him.

Taking in a deep breath of air, the scent of rich spices filled his nose and he focused his eyes on the plate of food that was presented to him.

Then, “Woah…” He heard, pulling his attention across the room so that his eyes landed on his son, mouth hung open and eyes wide as he eyed the food. Lifting his head, “Papa, who do I share it with?”

Startled, “What?” Yeonjun asked, reaching for his glass of cheongju.

Again, Beomgyu turned to Minjun with sadness in his gaze, stroking his shoulder lovingly. “Honey, we talked about this. You don’t have to share anymore.” Beomgyu reassured him.

Once more, Yeonjun took in the look on his son’s face and he became angry upon seeing the way his eyes shone, as if he weren’t used to being able to eat so much.

Gripping his glass tighter, Yeonjun ignored the tightness in his chest, though he couldn’t control the way his expression morphed—upset over the fact that they had to live such a life.

“Eat as much as you want. You have an endless supply of food here.” Yeonjun grit, his tone just as rough as always, but his words sounded far too soft for his liking.

Turning to him, Minjun gave a tight lipped smile, his eyes shining with what Yeonjun assumed to be tears, only furthering the ache in his chest.

“Thank you.” Minjun laughed, so pure and whole-heartedly that Yeonjun couldn’t help but be taken aback, blinking away whatever look attempted to fill his eyes to nod stiffly instead.

Later, when their plates are taken away, replaced with more sweets than even Yeonjun has ever seen, Minjun takes his first bite of dessert and breaks out into sobs, thanking Yeonjun again and again over something as simple as a pastry filled with jam.

 

❦

 

It’s hours after dinner, when Minjun is fast asleep and the servants are preparing for the next day that Yeonjun hears him enter.

“I know what you’re doing.” Beomgyu accused, leading Yeonjun to turn around from where he stood by his silk bedding, the same place where they first laid together and, unfortunately, the last place as well.

Stalking closer, Yeonjun squinted at him in challenge, completely enamored with his presence but also deeply angered by it. “And what is it that I’m doing?” Yeonjun questioned, stopping close enough that he could get a whiff of his enticing scent of citrus.

For a moment, he swore he saw hesitance in Beomgyu’s gaze. Vulnerability and maybe even hurt, yet the prince was quick to squash it down, replacing it with a familiar scowl.

“Trying to buy your way into his life— our lives.” 

Darkening his gaze, Yeonjun cocked his head, lowering his eyes to take in the way he looked in his night shift. “If it makes him happy then I don’t see the issue.”

With an angry exhale, Beomgyu stepped closer, rendering Yeonjun speechless as he suddenly became all that he could smell.

“The issue is that you’re trying to manipulate the way he feels for you by giving him everything he could never have.” 

Frowning, Yeonjun ignored the heat spilling in his gut as he locked eyes with him. “And what would you have me do then?” Yeonjun’s eyes turned crazed, taking a step closer so he loomed over Beomgyu. “Stand aside and give him nothing like your precious Taehyun did?”

Clenching his jaw, Yeonjun watched as Beomgyu’s eyes turned steely. “You leave him out of this.” Beomgyu hissed, inching forward so Yeonjun could see his glare clearly. “Taehyun might not have been wealthy but he did what you never could.” Beomgyu spat, filling Yeonjun to the brim with rage.

Stepping closer, Yeonjun invaded his personal space, leaving Beomgyu no other option than to take slow steps back as he approached him.

Lifting his finger, “Watch your goddamn mouth.” Yeonjun grit. “You were the one who kept my son from me. Had I had the opportunity-”

“What?” Beomgyu cut in, still backing away as Yeonjun stalked closer. “All you have shown me is that you don’t care about our happiness.” Beomgyu’s eyes scanned him with disgust. “All you care about is controlling us—taking whatever you want regardless of who gets hurt.” Lifting his brows, Beomgyu challenged him. “Tell me, would you want someone you love around a man who only cares about control.”

Lowering his hand at his side, Yeonjun sealed his lips shut, exhaling through his nose heavily as he eyed Beomgyu’s fierce stare.

“What do you want from me then, hm?” Yeonjun raised his brows, taking that final step closer so Beomgyu bumped into the wall. “You’d prefer it if I left you there? Starving with barely enough rations to keep our son alive?” 

“ You drove me there!” Beomgyu shouted, lifting a hand to grip the silks of his night robes. “You destroyed my home, took my father for prisoner leaving me no other choice but to live that way!” He seethed, his cheeks flushed with anger and his eyes shining with hopelessness. “I trusted you. That night- I opened up to you about my father and how I wished to be free, yet now you’ve taken me back, keeping me hostage in a place I cannot stand with a man I despise. ”

Towering over him, Yeonjun met his angry glare with one of his own, not used to someone challenging him. “Again, that was no life you were living!” Beomgyu looked away from him and Yeonjun was quick to reach out, grip his chin and make him look him in the eyes. “Even if you were free, what would that make me if I let you stay there?”

Squinting, Beomgyu smacked Yeonjun’s hand away, the defiance once again making heat flare in Yeonjun’s gut, his breath shortening with every deep inhale of Beomgyu’s sweet citrus. 

“That’s the issue, you didn’t do it out of the kindness of your heart.” Beomgyu cocked his head, providing Yeonjun a tantalizing view of his scent gland. “You did it out of your own sick need to possess everything you think belongs to you.”

“And don’t you?” Yeonjun’s eyes went wide. “Unless you forgot everything you said to me that night.”

Faltering, Beomgyu backed further into the wall. “That-” He struggled to find the words. “That was just…”

“Just what?” Leaning in closer, Yeonjun placed his hand on the wall beside his head. “The sex?” He asked, lowering his voice as he eyed the way Beomgyu swallowed thickly, his chest heaving, only Yeonjun couldn’t tell if it was out of anger, lust, or a bit of both. Lowering his head to Beomgyu’s ear, he repeated Beomgyu’s words from back then. “I belong to you.” He inched closer. “Make me yours.” Yeonjun’s lips lifted into a snarl. “Bite me.”

He could hear Beomgyu’s breath rush out of him, his body shaking beneath him even though he did nothing but whisper by his ear.

Moving back, Yeonjun looked him in the eyes, his irritation spiking when he saw shame on Beomgyu’s face.

“Don’t tell me you forgot.” Yeonjun muttered, lifting a brow when Beomgyu shot a glare at him, though the flush of his skin told Yeonjun a completely different story.

Bending down, Yeonjun leaned in closer, their noses close to touching as he closed his hand into a fist against the wall. “You didn't, right? Because it’d really piss me off if I spent the last three years obsessing over that night only for you to forget.”

Beomgyu swallowed thickly, averting his eyes to the ground and making Yeonjun’s need to dominate come to the surface. “Look at me.” He grit, feeling his heart race and his stomach ache when Beomgyu grit his teeth in refusal.

“You don’t scare me.” Beomgyu voiced, sending Yeonjun’s mind spiraling, desperate to crowd him against the wall to finally feel his lips again, yet, at the same time, he gained some kind of satisfaction upon seeing him trembling beneath him.

Wickedly, Yeonjun smirked, yet it wasn’t humorous in the least. “Are you sure about that?”

When Beomgyu flicked his eyes back up, meeting him in a heated staring match, Yeonjun felt tempted to close the distance but he needed to drag it out as long as possible.

“The only thing you do is disappoint me.” Beomgyu voiced, his insult bringing more anger to Yeonjun’s chest than he was anticipating, leaving him releasing a wave of his pheromones with the intent to intimidate him, yet all it did was drive Beomgyu further against the wall and make him gasp.

Maybe his scent wasn’t as angry as he thought…

“That must be awful for you.” Yeonjun growled, lifting a taunting brow. “Minjun certainly thinks differently.”

Beomgyu placed his hand on Yeonjun's chest, clearly with the intent of pushing him away, but he obviously didn’t anticipate touching bare skin.

It was addictive–watching the way Beomgyu’s eyes widened, darting his eyes to the area of Yeonjun’s chest, now exposed due to the knots on his robe coming undone.

Lighting fast, Beomgyu withdrew his hand and instead fixed his stare into Yeonjun’s face. “Minjun is three. You do not get to storm into our lives and try to play the good guy.”

“At what point did you think I was being the good guy?” Yeonjun hissed, mesmerized by the way his breath ruffled Beomgyu’s bangs. “Minjun is the heir to the throne. Even if I hadn’t gone looking for you out of some ‘sick need to possess’ you, I would have brought him back for that reason alone.”

Scoffing, Beomgyu shook his head. “So that’s what this is about? You don’t even care about him…you’re just brainwashing him so he’ll end up following in your footsteps.”

That statement reminded Yeonjun an awful lot of his father, making him wince. “No.” He spoke quietly—the quietest he’s been in a long time, and it was all because Beomgyu made him out to be a vile man who only cared about titles. “He’s my son above all else.”

 “I cannot trust anything you say-” Squinting, Beomgyu shook his head. “-but if you honestly mean that, then stop treating him like he’s nothing but your future emperor.” Beomgyu’s eyes took on a specific kind of desperation that Yeonjun’s only ever seen in situations involving Minjun. “He’s kind and full of love .” Beomgyu’s eyes turned pleading, bringing an ache to Yeonjun’s chest. “Do not take that away from him.”

Instantly, Yeonjun’s thoughts drifted back to the way Minjun’s smile would falter every time Yeonjun snapped at him and it left a sinking feeling in his chest.

Yeonjun’s expression wavered, the intensity in his chest rendering him speechless as he allowed Beomgyu to push him back and slowly make his exit out of the room.

The silence afterwards was deafening and Yeonjun couldn’t even find it in him to be disappointed that he didn’t receive his kiss. Not when the weight of fatherhood left him feeling more guilty than he has in ages.

 

❦

 

The next day, Yeonjun did something Beomgyu might not have agreed with—no, something he definitely wouldn’t agree with, but he felt he had no other option.

He asked the guard assigned to Beomgyu, Soobin, to tell the omega he was needed in the kitchens to discuss meal plans for Minjun and that the boy would be watched by one of the omega maids.

It wasn’t a lie, there were meal plans that needed to be made, but the only detail he left out was that he would be stopping by the gardens to pay Minjun a visit.

Once he came into view, Minjun darted off the grass, his smile wide and his eyes shining. “Papa!” He called, running towards him with that same, carefree attitude and it made Yeonjun’s heart burn with warmth. The feeling only amplified when Minjun ran into his legs, hugging him over the various layers of silk and effectively making Yeonjun’s brain malfunction for a moment.

It was uncomfortable being doted on the way Minjun did to him, something he was told to be wrong for an emperor. 

His past teachings were engraved in his mind. So much so that his first instinct was to snap at him and tell him to back away yet he found Beomgyu’s voice echoing through his mind before he opened his mouth.

Stop treating him like he’s nothing but your future emperor.

Clearing his throat awkwardly, Yeonjun kept his hands at his sides, as he gazed down at the small child. “Hello.” He greeted stiffly, blinking when Minjun lifted his head with a wide grin stretched across his lips.

“Hi papa.” He giggled, forcing Yeonjun to roll his shoulders back when more warmth filled him.

“Um.” Yeonjun cleared his throat again. “What…are you doing?” He asked, wincing a little at the accusatory tone in his voice.

Minjun didn’t seem to mind and instead beamed at him instead. 

With excitement, the boy released his legs and scrambled to his side. When he felt a tiny hand wrap around his fingers, Yeonjun’s eyes widened, his hand flinching, ready to pull away yet he remained still, allowing himself to go against his teachings for the sake of his son’s heart.

It was unfamiliar and confusing but, if anything, he figured the best thing to do was just go along with Minjun’s wishes rather than trying to assert his dominance.

Again, Beomgyu’s voice echoed in his mindscape. 

“You don’t even care about him, you’re just brainwashing him so he’ll end up following in your footsteps.”

The accusation stuck with him—haunting him in his dreams and being the first thing he remembered when awoke. It gnawed at him. 

Minjun is the crown prince, that’s true…but he’s also his son.

Swallowing thickly, Yeonjun allowed the child to guide him towards the area in the grass he was playing in and he furrowed his brows upon seeing various flowers in a pile.

“Look.” Minjun instructed, releasing his hand to crouch down on the grass.

Yeonjun gazed at the scene, squinting as he realized there were different piles, some larger than others. “What…is it?” He questioned, unsure about himself but, once again, Minjun didn’t care.

“It’s my home!” He giggled, turning to look up at Yeonjun with pure glee on his face.

It was a confusing feeling that filled him. The first being fondness and the latter being frustration.

Before he could catch himself, “ This is your home now.” Yeonjun said, sealing his lips when Minjun’s smile dropped, his expression curious and confused.

“Because you’re here?” Asked his son and Yeonjun nodded, taken aback when Minjun smiled in return.

“That’s ok. I like papa.” He spoke, making Yeonjun ache in a way that wasn’t disturbing but pleasing but it didn’t last long seeing as the next sentence to leave Minjun’s mouth was, “I miss Taehyun though…”

Clenching his jaw, Yeonjun’s eyes darkened. The mention of this man who supposedly took Yeonjun’s place, earning a place in both Minjun and Beomgyu’s hearts, triggered the territorial, possessive parts of him. The parts that were the hardest to control.

“Again, this is your home.”  Yeonjun eyed his son with a harsh stare. “With me.”

Minjun seemed to curl in on himself a bit, his expression solemn and faintly guilty which stirred something else in Yeonjun’s heart.

Guilt.

“I don’t want papa to be sad.” Minjun murmured, twisting his hands on his lap as he averted his gaze. “Did I make you sad again?”

Feeling a bit of the tension in his body loosened, Yeonjun tried to come up with an answer. “I- no.” Is what he went with, grimacing a little at his lack of words. Maybe…he needed to show it through his actions instead.

A bit unsure of himself, Yeonjun lowered himself onto his knee. “Stand.” He ordered, being sure to keep his voice soft.

Blinking up at him, Minjun slowly stood on his feet, and it was almost funny how he still appeared so much shorter than Yeonjun.

“You…” Yeonjun started, his expression stiff as he tried to allow himself to be delicate for once. “You didn’t upset me.” The words, as simple as they were, echoed in his chest, strange yet oddly satisfying.

His honest feelings.

Widening his eyes, Minjun blinked at him. “Really?”

Yeonjun nodded then, hesitantly, he reached out to place a hand on his shoulder, startled by how tiny he was. So fragile and delicate that Yeonjun’s urge to protect him suddenly became too much to bear.

“I want…” He hesitated, the words foreign and awkward on his tongue. “I want this to be your home now.” 

Minjun broke out into a wide smile, his cheeks scrunching up and his eyes turning to crescents as he nodded and it frightened Yeonjun. The fact that something as simple as a smile could bring so much warmth to his chest.

“Ok papa.” He agreed and suddenly the air felt lighter, easier to breathe in and, for the first time since he’s interacted with his son, he didn’t feel like his expression was forced, but instead it naturally relaxed.

“Oh!” Minjun suddenly called, dropping onto the ground to grab a small rock.

Yeonjun removed his hand from his shoulder, furrowing his brows as he watched him retrieve an ordinary looking stone off the grass then lift himself back up to look up at Yeonjun.

“Ok!” He smiled, holding the rock behind his back as if Yeonjun hadn’t seen him retrieve it. “Hold out your hand.” 

Swallowing thickly, Yeonjun held out his palm.

“Now close your eyes.”

Instinctively, Yeonjun wanted to tell him he already knew what was in his hand, but he didn’t know if it would upset him.

So, begrudgingly, Yeonjun closed his eyes, furrowing his brows when he felt tiny fingers place something cool to the touch in his palm.

“Now open!”

Cracking his eyes open, Yeonjun stared at the rock, a basic gray color that held no special meaning until Minjun said, “I found it for you!”

Stunned into silence, Yeonjun eyed the rock, slightly troubled but also overwhelmed.

He’s…never received anything like this before.

Lifting his eyes, Yeonjun studied Minjun’s excited smile and felt his heart explode with fondness.

“Thank you.” Yeonjun muttered, feeling his brows furrow even more when Minjun giggled bashfully.

Pointing his tiny finger at him, “Make sure you keep it forever and ever.” Minjun demanded something that normally might’ve made Yeonjun snap, but instead he clutched it tightly in his hand and nodded his head once.

After their brief interaction, Yeonjun sat in his office, unable to let go of the rock in his hand as he deliberated over his next meeting with the ministry. At least that was what he did until Beomgyu came storming into his office, accusation in his gaze, leading Yeonjun to prepare himself for the impending argument.

 

❦

 

Beomgyu was hesitant about leaving Minjun with a palace maid, so imagine his fury when he learned Yeonjun paid their son a visit while he was conveniently out of sight.

“Appa! Papa played with me in the grass!” 

Scoffing, Beomgyu stormed down the hall of Yeonjun’s quarters, passing by all of the guards without a second glance as he tried to will himself to have a civil conversation yet, once he passed the threshold of Yeonjun’s office, the first words that left his mouth were, “What is wrong with you?”

At his desk, Yeonjun raised his brows. “Many things apparently.” 

With a baffled laugh, Beomgyu hastily made his way to Yeonjun’s desk.

Was he seriously being sarcastic right now?

“What kind of person lures a child’s parent away so they can speak to their kid?”

Yeonjun leaned back in his chair with a challenging squint in his gaze. “The father of that child.”

Clenching his teeth, Beomgyu slammed his hand on Yeonjun’s desk. “You had no right. I told you I didn’t want you to be around him.”

“No, you told me you didn’t want me to treat him like an heir.”

“ Exactly.” Beomgyu grit. “I don’t need him thinking about anything but being a child.”

That seemed to anger Yeonjun, leading him to stand out of his desk with an angry huff. “For one second have you thought that maybe I just want to spend time with him?” Yeonjun heaved, startling Beomgyu into silence.

The declaration was enough to dampen Beomgyu’s anger and instead replace it with confusion.

“You didn’t earn that right.” Beomgyu muttered, tightening his lips when Yeonjun’s glare landed on him, yet it wasn’t as intense as a moment ago. “Being a father, it isn’t just about you fulfilling some need of possession. It’s showing up. It’s being there when he really needs you and giving him comfort.”

For a moment, silence filled the room until Yeonjun broke it with a low admission of, “I don’t…” Yeonjun thinned his lips, clenching his jaw to seemingly keep his mask up. “I do not know how to be a father.” It was spoken so rawly with a layer of resentment. As if admitting it out loud was a sign of weakness . 

The admittance left Beomgyu’s breath hitching and, for a moment, he felt like he was seeing the man behind the crown. A man who looked so lost and helpless with the prospect of being a father but it didn’t matter. Not at that moment, because…the man he was looking at was not the emperor but Choi Yeonjun.

“I…” Yeonjun clenched his jaw, running his thumb across his closed fist—an uncharacteristic show of nervousness . “I didn’t exactly have a good role model.” Shaking his head, “My father’s idea of care was slapping me across the face or presenting me with a helpless animal to kill.” 

The admission made Beomgyu’s blood run cold, realization striking him as to why Yeonjun acted the way he did. Emotionally stunted and lacking in knowledge of acts of love.

He…never experienced it. He was quite literally taught that it was a weakness. Something he should be punished for.

Swallowing thickly, Beomgyu tried to gather his thoughts. “You can understand why I wouldn’t want you around our son then.” Beomgyu murmured, the declaration leaving a sour taste in his mouth when he saw something akin to hurt flash in Yeonjun’s gaze.

“I can understand, but I wish you would understand that I am trying.” He growled, once again getting angry. “I never once entertained the thought of having a child, even if it meant my bloodline dying off.” Yeonjun's face scrunched up with frustration. “Then I find you, the one person who made me feel more than I ever have before, only to find out I’ve been a father of your child for years. ” He straightened out his back, his eyes angry but also lost. “Could you imagine being forced into a role that you don’t know how to fill?”

Processing his words, Beomgyu began to empathize a little. When he first gave birth, he was so lost, even after all of those classes he took about being a mother. It wasn’t an easy task, even if you knew what to do. So…to suddenly be placed in such a role when you’ve never been exposed to it before…it couldn’t have been easy.

“So what do you want me to do then?” Beomgyu asked quieter, accepting the fact that, maybe, Yeonjun could be a good change in Minjun’s life…and that Minjun could change his.

All he needed to do was give him a chance.

Behind the desk, Yeonjun widened his eyes, clearly not anticipating Beomgyu to understand him and it only gave Beomgyu a greater understanding of the man.

Has he never been truly heard?

Maybe it was foolish of him, but learning about Yeonjun’s emotional struggles left Beomgyu’s heart aching, empathizing with him—reminding him of his own childhood as the omega prince. It left him thinking…they weren’t all that different. The only difference was that Beomgyu escaped that life before it consumed him completely whereas Yeonjun got dragged under, chained to his role as the emperor where he had no one to rely on. No one to care for or show vulnerability to.

It truly was… sad.

Blinking, Yeonjun furrowed his brows. “I…” He sighed, trying to piece his thoughts together and Beomgyu just waited, allowing him the time to put his feelings into words because God knows he rarely gets the chance. 

Then, after a moment of silence, “I want to be someone-” Yeonjun hesitated, then, once again rubbing his fingers together. “- he cares about.”

Widening his eyes, Beomgyu felt his heart ache once more, followed by an unsettling flutter in his stomach.

A part of him wanted to allow it yet another part felt wary over letting Yeonjun get so close.

He clearly had a lot of issues and lacked the emotional foundation to form relationships with people but then he realized something.

Yeonjun was the emperor. 

If he wished, he could force Minjun to see him regardless of Beomgyu’s wishes and Beomgyu wouldn’t be able to tell him otherwise, yet he didn’t use his power but instead talked to Beomgyu about it, simply hoping he would agree.

Taking in a deep breath of air, Beomgyu met his eyes, once again seeing past Yeonjun’s mask as he slowly exhaled.

“Ok.” He muttered, feeling his chest tighten when Yeonjun’s eyes widened once again. “But you can only meet him when I am with him.”

Blinking, Yeonjun nodded slowly. “Then you will see me-”

Holding up a hand, Beomgyu silenced him, watching as Yeonjun’s brows furrowed and his jaw clenched, clearly not used to someone telling him what to do.

“That’s another thing.” Lowering his hand, “If you want me to respect you, you will not tell me what to do. I hate being controlled.” Beomgyu’s eyes were filled with emotion as they locked gazes. “You know that better than anyone.”

Silence filled the office once again, the air thick with understanding, a big feat considering all of their past interactions ended with shouting.

Then, tightening his jaw, Yeonjun stiffly nodded and Beomgyu couldn’t help but crack a small smile at the way he struggled to give up some of his power.

Lifting his brows, “What’s wrong?” Beomgyu taunted lightly. “Not used to being told what to do?”

Yeonjun fixed a glare on him, though Beomgyu noted it was filled with less malice and more annoyance. “Careful, I am still the emperor.”

Cocking his head, Beomgyu held his smirk. “Yet you cannot control me or the agreement is off. I’ll hate you and tell Minjun to keep his distance.”

He could hear Yeonjun’s angry exhale, only making his smile widen.

It was actually quite entertaining having so much control over a man as powerful as he. Though, it also opened Beomgyu’s eyes to just how much Yeonjun meant what he said about wanting to spend time with Minjun. It made his eyes soften a fraction and his expression must have caught Yeonjun off guard in the way he flinched a little.

“What?” He muttered, pinching his brows together as he studied Beomgyu’s face.

His eyes turned coy again, and Beomgyu slowly backed away from his desk. “Nothing. Just make sure you do not disappoint me.” Beomgyu gave him one last look. “Or Minjun.”

Tightening his lips, Yeonjun once again nodded, making Beomgyu’s smile widen. 

Giving him a quick nod, “Your majesty.” He bidded, jumping a little when Yeonjun hissed out a quick, “ Don’t-”

Widening his eyes, Beomgyu turned back around.

Standing behind his desk, Yeonjun let out another angry puff of air. “Do not call me that.” He requested, and Beomgyu suddenly recalled their first night together—the way Yeonjun had pleaded with him to call him by his name not his title.

Sealing his lips shut, Beomgyu gave him a thoughtful look before giving in, nodding once again. “Yeonjun.” He spoke, his stomach fluttering when Yeonjun blinked at him as if he weren’t expecting him to actually listen.

Clearing his throat, Yeonjun averted his attention to his desk and slowly took a seat. “I will see you at dinner.” He said, refusing to look up from his pile of work and Beomgyu hummed, a faint smile on his lips as he turned to exit the room.

Strolling down the hall, an unexpected warmth filled his chest—caught off guard by the way Yeonjun had shown him a small glimpse of himself. It left Beomgyu wondering if there was hope for him after all and, possibly, a chance for him to regain the trust Beomgyu once placed in him.

Maybe it was wishful thinking, but Beomgyu found that he really hoped Yeonjun would open up more. 

Smiling to himself, Beomgyu continued on his path back to the gardens.

When he told Minjun they were having dinner with Yeonjun, his son’s eyes lit up with excitement and, instead of the usual unease he would feel from their impending time with the emperor, all Beomgyu felt was warmth.

❦

 

“Papa.” Minjun chided, pouting from across the dining hall as he made his way to his respective seat. “Why’re you so far again?”

Frowning, Yeonjun shot him a look of confusion, but once he caught sight of Beomgyu’s critical eyes he quickly tried wiping the frown off his face.

“I’ve told you, it’s a formality.” He announced, tightening his lips at his own words.

How was a child supposed to understand formality?

Huffing, Minjun pulled his hand out of Beomgyu’s grasp then proudly stomped past his seat, making his way towards Yeonjun’s end of the table.

With a wide smile, Minjun sat at the corner seat, right beside Yeonjun’s end, then turned to the emperor with a closed eyed smile. “This is better.” He giggled.

Wide eyed and stiff, Yeonjun eyed him, unsure if he was meant to allow it or not.

Emperors…they were supposed to sit at opposite ends, even with their families.

Quickly, Yeonjun shot Beomgyu a look, noticing the way the omega stood on the opposite end of the room, as if he were waiting for Yeonjun’s response.

He was meant to tell Minjun to return to his seat but-

Sparing another glance at his son, Yeonjun felt his chest ache upon seeing the excitement radiating off of him.

Hardening his expression, Yeonjun straightened out then said, “Move their plates.” 

After a moment passed and none of the servants moved, Yeonjun slowly turned to look at the white-robed people surrounding them. “Did I stutter?” He questioned, darkening his expression when the one he addressed flinched and quickly began heading towards Minjun and Beomgyu’s old seats.

As he was eyeing the servant closely, he noticed Beomgyu slowly walking in their direction, stealing Yeonjun’s attention completely.

There was something about the way Beomgyu was looking at him. Not with the usual malice but inquisition. As if he were trying to understand him.

“This isn’t customary.” Beomgyu stated the obvious, sitting beside Minjun who looked between them with a wide smile.

“Ba, we’re like a family.” Minjun cheered and Yeonjun quickly darted his eyes to his son.

“We are a family.” He said, swallowing thickly when he realized his words came out harder than intended but, shockingly, neither Beomgyu or Minjun seemed upset. Rather, they both turned to him with wide eyes, making him feel uncomfortable with the attention. 

Looking between the two, Yeonjun’s eyes lingered on Beomgyu and the way he was staring at him, a look so captivating that he didn’t know what to do with himself. 

Yeonjun coughed, tearing his eyes away from Beomgyu as the first dish was served to them, the scent of rice and beef filling his nose as he eyed the amount of food being placed in front of his son. 

“Woah.” Minjun’s eyes widened at the sight of his bowl of rice and Yeonjun felt warmth fill his chest when the boy smiled.

Shocking him, Yeonjun watched as he clapped his hands together, squeezing his eyes shut as he muttered a quiet thank you before picking up his spoon.

“Have you ever used chopsticks?” Yeonjun asked, picking up his silver utensils as he watched Minjun hold his spoon with his entire fist and scoop an atrocious amount of rice.

Before answering, Minjun stuffed his spoon in his mouth and Yeonjun simply stared, eyeing the pieces of rice that fell from his spoon, sticking to his lips and chin.

For a moment, Yeonjun just took in the sight, but then he felt it, a flicker of amusement wash over him, pulling a faint smile on his lips as he watched his son struggle to chew.

“Is it good?” He questioned, voice softer than he ever remembered it to be.

Turning to him, Minjun beamed, causing his cheeks to puff even more as he nodded, grimacing as he tried swallowing it all down.

“It’s so good!” Minjun muffled through his mouthful of rice, eyes lighting up as he went to scoop more.

Watching the scene, Yeonjun couldn’t hold in the breath of laughter that escaped him—a sound he hasn’t heard in a long time and beside Minjun, Beomgyu lifted his brows in faint shock, leading Yeonjun to quickly clear his throat and try to control his expression. 

Picking up a slice of meat, Yeonjun shot Minjun a meaningful gaze. “Perhaps we’ll work on using chopsticks next time.” He announced, feeling his heart bloom with heat when Minjun looked ecstatic.

“Like you Papa?” He murmured, only furthering the ache in Yeonjun’s chest.

Releasing a low breath of air, Yeonjun hummed. “Yes.” 

Stealing his attention was Beomgyu running a hand along Minjun’s back, the show of affection so easy to him as he smiled at their son.

“Like a true prince.” Beomgyu jested, but there was something akin to discomfort in his gaze after saying it out loud.

The rest of their dinner went shockingly well and by that he meant it didn’t involve any arguments or harsh glares. 

However, things quickly shifted towards the end of the night, completely shattering the peaceful atmosphere Yeonjun found himself in.

It was after Minjun chugged his juice, breathing into it and fogging up the glass as he swallowed. Only, when he pulled the glass away, he began coughing with a troubled pinch in his brow.

At first, Yeonjun didn’t think much of it—that he simply drank too fast and it went down the wrong pipe. That was until, even after Minjun stopped coughing, he noticed the boy looked off. The pale complexion of his skin as well as the dazed look in his eyes. 

Yeonjun eyed him closely, furrowing his brows when he saw Minjun blinking rapidly.

“Minjun?” Beomgyu called, noticing his shift in demeanor, and Yeonjun became even more distraught when the boy turned to Beomgyu with a confused look in his eyes.

“Ba?” He asked, blinking rapidly as he shakily placed the cup back onto the table.

Beomgyu reached out, questioning if he was alright, then he saw it, blood beading in his nose, dripping down in a thin line. 

Yeonjun’s heart stopped, his breath catching in his throat as he reached for him instinctively. 

It was pathetic—the fear apparent in his expression, yet he couldn’t find it in him to correct himself. Not when Minjun’s eyes began to waver, crippling him with fear he hadn’t experienced since his childhood.

“Get the physician!” Yeonjun shouted, his voice cracking a fraction as he moved closer, his imperial mannerisms long forgotten as he held out his hand to touch Minjun’s arm, still shaking as he watched his son lose consciousness.

“Oh god.” Beomgyu muttered, panicked and equally terrified as he pulled Minjun onto his lap, cradling him as he fumbled over what to do.  “ God.” 

Beomgyu looked up, his eyes teary and full of fear as he looked Yeonjun in the eyes. “What do- what do I do? What’s happening?”

Opening his mouth dumbly, Yeonjun shook his head.

He didn’t know.

He didn’t know what to do and it killed him.

At his silence, Beomgyu curled in on himself, as if his chest was caving in, causing a breathless cry to slip past his lips.

“Minjun.” Beomgyu called, shaking him lightly as more blood spilled from his nose. “Oh god. Oh god he’s bleeding. Yeonjun.” Beomgyu held their son tighter, shaking as he held him in his arms. “Wh- Why is he bleeding!?”

Again, Yeonjun shook his head, more frantic than before as he listened to the servants all shuffling around the room, murmuring to each other as they scurried around.

“I- I don’t know.” Yeonjun breathed, paling when he heard Minjun choke on his own breath.

He hadn’t realized it before, but with their child laying limp in Beomgyu’s arms, Yeonjun quickly realized how much he meant to him. A boy—barely three years old, meant so much to him and, if the ache in his heart was any indication, he didn’t want any harm to come to him. He couldn’t bear it.

Placing a hand on Minjun’s forehead, his expression twisted even more, worry etching itself on his face as he felt the heat of Minjun’s skin against his palm.

“He’s burning up.” Yeonjun panicked, scanning his frail body once more and huffing when the sight of his blood made his concern spike once more.

“Minjun, honey, it’ll be ok.” Beomgyu cried, his worried pheromones mixing with Yeonjun’s own, consequently amplifying Yeonjun’s agitation.

Whipping around to glare at the servants, “Where is the physician?!” He growled, releasing his scent so everyone in the room knew their lives would be on the line if he didn’t see a doctor within the next three seconds.

Thankfully, within two , a doctor came running into the dining hall, panting and flushed from the summer heat, but Yeonjun couldn’t care less.

“What happened?” Wheezed Huening Kai, the palace physician.

Baring his teeth, Yeonjun moved aside only enough to allow the doctor room to check him out, yet he couldn’t stray too far.

Panicked, “H-he drank juice then started acting strangely.” Beomgyu’s voice trembled as he lowered Minjun onto the floor, holding his hand tightly as Kai reached out to check his pulse.

“Strangely how?” Kai asked, his eyes only focused on Minjun.

“He bled from his nose and fainted.” Yeonjun grit. “Now fix him if you care for your life.”

Furrowing his brows, Kai leaned over Minjun to hover his ear over his mouth. 

Jittery with anxiety, Yeonjun let out a heavy exhale through his nose before asking, “Why are you not helping him!?”

“Your highness, I am trying to figure out the cause of his illness.” Huening countered, pulling away from Minjun to dig through his small leather pouch.

Darting his eyes between Minjun and the doctor. “Well?” Yeonjun asked, shaking his head impatiently. “What’s wrong with him?”

Reaching in his bag, Kai shot him a solemn look. “Poison.” He muttered, pulling out a clear vile of herbs from his bag.

The revelation stunned Yeonjun into silence. The fact that his son’s life wasn’t at stake because of a natural illness but because someone was deliberately trying to harm him left Yeonjun’s blood boiling while simultaneously making his stomach churn with nausea.

Then there was the overwhelming amount of worry that fogged up his mind, making it hard for him to think clearly as he thought of the poison in his child’s system and all the possible things that could go wrong.

“Who would poison him?” Beomgyu asked, a little shrill as he gripped Minjun’s hand protectively.

Hueninh dumped a good amount of herbs onto his palm then began mixing them with his finger. “There’s many people here who disagree with his highness’ ruling…” Kai grimaced. “Now that he has a weakness, some might see it as an opportunity to gain some kind of control.”

Tightening his lips, Yeonjun shook his head angrily. “They know the consequences of their actions.” Yeonjun let out a shuddering exhale, his eyes filled with animosity as he watched Kai place the herbs in Minjun’s mouth. “When they’re discovered, those fools won’t live to see another day.”

Faces began flashing in his mind—names, titles, even servants, though the only thing that seemed plausible was that it was someone from the ministry. Those bastards have been pestering him from the moment he sat on the throne so it’d only make sense for them to try and hurt him with this.

With frustration, Beomgyu turned to him. “How will you even find them?” Beomgyu’s tears dribbled down his cheeks, only fueling Yeonjun’s fury.

Before he could even get the chance to answer, “We need to take him to my quarters.” Spoke the doctor, the grim tone in his voice forcing another wave of dread to wash over him as he furrowed his brows with distress.

In an instant, Yeonjun was leaning forward, scooping Minjun in his arms so he could deliver him to the infirmary with Beomgyu holding onto his small hand in a white-knuckled grip.

Together, they removed themselves off the floor, sharing concerned glances before they began rushing out of the dining hall, allowing the doctor to guide them to his lab where Yeonjun hoped he could find proper treatment.

He was only three afterall and they had no clue how badly the poison would affect him.

In his arms, Minjun let out shuddering breaths, sweat beading at his brow as his troubled pheromones permeated the air around him.

Yeonjun held him closer to his chest, coming to the haunting realization that it was the first time he’s ever held his son in his arms.

You see Yeonjun wasn’t a man of prayer, but in that moment he found himself pleading to a silent God, begging him to keep his son alive. 

 

❦

 

After carrying Minjun to the infirmary, Kai asked them both to stand back but Beomgyu found it difficult seeing as he didn’t want to stray more than an inch away from Minjun. 

He wanted to be there to protect him. He was supposed to protect him, yet he was completely helpless when it came down to it. 

So now he watched, paralyzed on the sidelines as the doctor examined him with the assistance of three other nurses.

They were speaking rather intellectually but Beomgyu managed to pick up on certain things.

The one in particular that had him trembling with fear was a simple statement of, “His pulse is slowing….need to stabilize him.”

Endless tears slipped from his eyes as he brought a trembling hand to his lips, the ache in his heart worsening when he saw Minjun’s expression—tight with pain and discomfort as he laid unconscious against the silk sheets.

“He can’t die.” Beomgyu muttered, shaking his head in denial as he eyed his son’s every shift in expression. “He-he’s so young.” Beomgyu hiccuped, jumping when he felt a hand on his shoulder, drawing his attention to the man standing a short distance behind him.

Yeonjun’s grip, as rough and clumsy as it was, grounded him, allowing Beomgyu a moment to breathe a bit easier as he turned to look over his shoulder defeatedly. There, he saw Yeonjun’s own vulnerability—sadness, anger… helplessness. 

If he was being honest, it was a little comforting. The fact that he wasn’t alone. Regardless of whom he was standing with, Yeonjun’s presence allowed him to think with more clarity.

Side by side Beomgyu and Yeonjun watched as the doctor worked, ordering the nurses to gather ingredients while he began wiping Minjun’s body with a cold cloth. Before he knew it, Kai was steppin away from Minjun’s sleeping form with a heavy exhale and Yeonjun and Beomgyu both stepped forward at the same time, waiting to hear the news.

“Well.” Kai breathed, lifting an arm to wipe the sweat from his brow. “He’s stable now but we’ll have to keep a close eye on him, at least until his fever breaks.”

Hearing the news, Beomgyu’s legs wobbled a bit, nearly sending him collapsing onto the floor with relief as he let out a heavy sigh.

“Thank you.” Beomgyu curved his brows inwards. “Did you find out what kind of poison it was?”

Beomgyu didn’t miss the way Kai’s eyes shifted to Yeonjun’s right before answering, “Oleander. Though, I don’t think it was a high enough dosage to kill, just enough to make a statement.”

Beside him, Beomgyu smelt the sour twinge in Yeonjun’s scent, drawing his attention to the emperor on his right who looked far too pale.

Pinching his brows together, Beomgyu reached out to tug on the silk sleeve of Yeonjun’s myeonbok, tightening his lips when Yeonjun didn’t turn to look at him.

“Oleander…” Yeonjun muttered, giving Beomgyu the impression that it wasn’t his first time dealing with the toxin.

“Have you seen this before?” Beomgyu managed to voice, blinking tiredly when Yeonjun turned to meet his gaze.

Yeonjun’s gaze hardened. “I’ve been poisoned with it many times. It’s…” Yeonjun swallowed down his grimace. “-it’s extremely painful.” He muttered, making Beomgyu’s face contort with concern at the thought of Minjin enduring such pain.

“Don’t fret.” Yeonjun quickly added. “He’s strong.” 

The sudden reassurance left Beomgyu even more muddled. 

Releasing his grip on the emperor’s clothing, Beomgyu realized Yeonjun was…trying to make him feel better.

“Your highness.” Huening addressed. “I will have maids watch over him so you can-”

“No.” Yeonjun grit, gaining Beomgyu’s full attention. Licking his lips, Yeonjun’s eyes hardened. “I…I’m staying.” He announced, turning around before either of them could comment on the fact.

“You have done well Doctor, you may leave.” Grit the emperor, his distressed pheromones more potent than before as he stared at their son.

Yeonjun didn’t see it, but Huening bowed once more then walked out the room, leaving the two alone in the quiet space.

With a taut expression, Beomgyu stared at his back, wondering what exactly was going through the emperor’s mind right now—was he actually worried about Minjun or was it the future of the crown he was concerned about?

Tightening his lips, Beomgyu took a hesitant step towards him, halting when he heard Yeonjun exhale heavily and run a hand through his hair.

“...Yeonjun.” Beomgyu called, his heart pinching when the emperor didn’t answer him and instead murmured something to himself.

Furrowing his brows, Beomgyu approached him once more, reaching out to place a tentative hand on his shoulder—the same as Yeonjun did to him earlier.

Instantly, Yeonjun turned around, his eyes wild and lips pulled into a frown as he met Beomgyu’s eyes. “This…is my fault.” Yeonjun muttered, tightening his jaw with disdain. “I-” Yeonjun shook his head. “I don’t-”

Shaking his head, Beomgyu took a step closer, tightening his hold on Yeonjun’s shoulder to try and ground him. In front of him, Yeonjun stood without his usual aura of confidence and strength, slumping as he gazed into Beomgyu’s eyes.

“As much as I would like to blame you for this-” Beomgyu tilted his head, eyes crinkling. “-It isn’t your fault.” Beomgyu murmured, biting on his lip to prevent himself from saying otherwise.

Yes, for a fleeting moment, he had blamed Yeonjun. The reason being that he brought them back to the palace, exposing Minjun to such dangers yet, one look at the fearful expression on Yeonjun’s face was enough to make him second guess it.

Yeonjun, as cruel and emotionally stunted as he was, never intended for them to get hurt. Even if he had a twisted way of showing it.

In front of him, Yeonjun scowled, something akin to self loathing swarming in his gaze as he flicked his eyes to Minjun’s still body then lowered his eyes to the floor in shame.

“You must believe me, I didn’t mean for-” Yeonjun rushed out and Beomgyu quickly removed his hand from Yeonjun’s shoulder to grip his face, forcing the emperor to look him in the eyes just as he always did to Beomgyu.

Placing his other hand on Yeonjun’s cheek, Beomgyu shot him a serious look, his eyes red and puffy but his expression stiff with meaning. “I believe you.” Beomgyu grit, holding Yeonjun’s face tighter when he saw hesitation on Yeonjun’s face. Hesitation to believe him.

“This wasn’t your fault.” Beomgyu’s eyes darkened exponentially as he held Yeonjun’s gaze. “But I expect you to find those responsible.” Beomgyu’s hands slowly began sliding off of his face. “And when you do…” Lowering his hands at his sides, Beomgyu turned to look at their son. “You better make them regret it.” He muttered, trembling with his silent rage as he watched his son pant in his sleep.

Stealing his attention, Yeonjun hummed. “Mark my words.” 

Beomgyu turned to look at him, his gut churning with unease at the clouded look in Yeonjun’s gaze.

Stepping closer, Yeonjun’s eyes darkened. “They will wish they’d never even been born.”

Silence fell over them, Yeonjun’s promise hanging thick in the air as they shared looks of understanding.

It was then that he noticed how deranged Yeonjun looked yet, this time, he didn’t question it. Instead, he nodded lightly, choosing to leave the attacker’s fate in Yeonjun’s hands regardless of what his intentions with them were.

 

❦

 

Despite the burning need to find the one responsible, Yeonjun couldn’t leave Minjun’s side.

What if something were to happen when he was away? How could he live with himself if he left and wasn’t there in Minjun’s most vulnerable time?

So he stayed by his bedside, aiding Beomgyu with small tasks—wiping his body with a cool cloth, changing his clothes…releasing his scent.

Taking care of someone was so foreign to him, but, with Beomgyu’s guidance, he quickly learned how to.

Now, they both sat against the wall by his bedside, tired and drained, waiting for the moment their son awoke from his dreams.

He was lost in his own head, contemplating what his next course of action would be, when Beomgyu broke the silence.

“You know, he asked about you a few months before you found us.” Murmured the prince, drawing Yeonjun’s attention to the man sitting on his right.

Beomgyu sat, head pressed against the wall and eyes heavy with exhaustion as he watched their son.

“Did he?” Yeonjun muttered, equally as quiet.

Beomgyu turned to look at him and Yeonjun realized two things. One, Beomgyu’s eyes were red, his eyelids heavy with exhaustion and two:

We’re sitting very close…

With a tired hum, Beomgyu’s eyes danced around, probably taking in Yeonjun’s expression as well. “Taehyun mentioned his father and Minjun asked about you.”

The mention of Taehyun and the fact that he missed the first three years of their child’s life left his chest aching uncomfortably, drawing his lips down into a frown as he gazed into Beomgyu’s eyes.

“What did you tell him?” Yeonjun spoke, voice tight as he waited for his answer.

Blinking thoughtfully, “I told him you had an important job and that you couldn’t live in the same place as we did.” Beomgyu squinted. “I mean, what else could you really tell a three-year-old.”

“That you ran away and gave birth in secret.” Yeonjun suggested, feeling oddly emotional over the topic. “That his father didn’t even know he existed.” 

Beside him, Beomgyu’s lips drew thin, his eyes studying him carefully. “I wouldn’t have kept it a secret had you not destroyed my country.” Beomgyu’s eyes turned thoughtful again. “I still haven't forgiven you for that…or what you did to my father.”

Inching closer, Yeonjun’s brows faintly pinched inward. “Yet you haven’t asked to see him once since coming to the palace nor have you asked about his health.” Yeonjun countered, annoyed that Beomgyu didn’t seem to realize he might actually be thankful for what Yeonjun did.

At his statement, Beomgyu seemed to grimace, dropping his eyes onto the floor as he sat with Yeonjun’s words. 

“I…” Beomgyu hesitated, then met his eyes. “I don’t agree with it. You sent that army to my home, conquering the territory and imprisoning my father all for what?”

Yeonjun darted closer. “For you.” He grit, tightening his lips when Beomgyu met his eyes, fear and confusion swarming in his orbs as they locked eyes. 

“You don’t know, do you?” He muttered. “Just how far I would go to have you.” He confessed, not out of desire but a need to have him. For Beomgyu to belong to him and only him. “You hated your father, so I got rid of him. You hated your home, so I destroyed it.” Yeonjun furrowed his brows, leaning closer into Beomgyu’s side until their shoulders brushed. “I know I’m sick in the head…but I truly did it all for you.” He confessed, watching Bemogyu’s expression closely. The troubled pinch of his brow as well as the fear swarming in his gaze.

“That’s-” Beomgyu swallowed thickly. “That’s insane.” He hissed, blinking rapidly.

Beside him, Yeonjun could only stare, humming in agreement as he watched Beomgyu process it all.

“I suppose.” Yeonjun muttered, removing his gaze from him to check on Minjun’s condition. “But I do not regret it.” He spoke truthfully, resting his head against the wall behind him to watch the rise and fall of Minjun’s chest. “I only wish it hadn’t driven you to hide from me for three years.”

Huffing, Beomgyu followed him and rested his head against the wall to stare at their son. “What did you expect?” He said, scoffing a bit. “I was under the impression you slept with me as some kind of sick joke and that you would kill me the moment you returned.”

Furrowing his brows, Yeonjun went silent. “Why would you assume such a thing?”

Beomgyu scoffed incredulously. “Are you a fool?” He insulted yet it didn’t affect Yeonjun in the slightest. “I thought you had something against my family.” Beomgyu huffed. “Come to find out you were just obsessed with me.”

Clicking his tongue, Yeonjun shook his head. “That’s where you’re wrong.” He turned to look at Beomgyu just as the omega turned to glance at him. “It’s not that I was obsessed with you.” Yeonjun leaned in slightly, addicted to the subtle shift in Beomgyu’s demeanor. “I am obsessed with you. Now, always.” He said honestly, staring deeply into Beomgyu’s doe eyes as he sat frozen against the wall.

For a moment, the omega didn’t even blink. Then, after a long stretch of silence, Beomgyu swallowed thickly, fluttering his lashes as he held Yeonjun’s gaze. “You’re crazy.” 

“Yes, we’ve already established that.” Yeonjun’s eyes danced across his features, enamored by how beautiful he looked even with puffy eyes and red cheeks. “I wonder why you don’t look bothered by it though?” Yeonjun muttered, studying his reaction closely, the way his lashes fluttered, the subtle shift in his scent and the startled look in his eyes.

“I’m very bothered by it.” Beomgyu turned away.

Squinting, Yeonjun lifted a hand. It hovered for a moment, hesitating before gently cupping Beomgyu’s chin, softly turning his head so their eyes could meet.

Beside him, Beomgyu’s breath seemed to hitch, his eyes widening and lips drawing thin as Yeonjun forced him to meet his gaze.

Then, slightly breathless, “You’re dangerous.” Beomgyu muttered, revealing everything Yeonjun needed to know.

Cocking his head, Yeonjun brought his thumb to Beomgyu’s chin and lifted it up, allowing their eyes to align properly. 

With a knowing squint, “I think you like that.” Yeonjun spoke slowly, completely taken by the way Beomgyu’s eyes flashed with guilt. Sliding his hand onto Beomgyu’s cheek, Yeonjun stroked his skin softly with his thumb. “Isn’t that the reason you warmed my bed all those years ago?”

Stunned into silence, Beomgyu’s lips parted in shock, his scent troubled as he tried to think of something to say but, just as he went to speak, a soft grunt came from Minjun, shattering the atmosphere and making both of them whip their heads in his direction.

On the silk bed roll, Minjun laid unconscious on his pillow, moving against the sheets with a troubled pinch in his brow as he made more sounds of pain.

In an instant, both Yeonjun and Beomgyu shuffled to the edge of his bed mat and the emperor quickly scanned him to try and figure out what was wrong.

“His stomach.” Yeonjun announced, slipping his hand under Minjun’s shirt to press his palm against his small abdomen. “Oleander causes severe stomach pain.” Yeonjun grimaced, recalling the agony of it and feeling his stomach churn at the thought of Minjun dealing with it.

Slowly, he began massaging Minjun’s belly, his tiny muscles tight, rejecting the poison, leading Yeonjun to grimace, hoping the pressure and warmth would help with the pain.

With a shaky exhale, Beomgyu reached out to brush Minjun’s hair away from his forehead, the locks clumped together with sweat as he peeled it off of his skin.

“Poor baby.” Beomgyu breathed, pulling the cloth off his forehead to check his temperature. “He’s still warm but I don’t think he’s getting hotter.”

Humming, Yeonjun stared at Minjun’s expression, relaxing a bit when he saw his discomfort slowly melt away as he drifted off into a deep slumber.

With a heavy exhale, Yeonjun continued rubbing his stomach, turning to Beomgyu when he felt the omega staring at him.

Beomgyu stared at him as he resumed running his fingers along Minjun’s scalp. “Thank you.” Beomgyu murmured, startling Yeonjun by the honesty in his tone.

Blinking, Yeonjun furrowed his brow as Beomgyu clarified, “For staying.”

Swallowing around a dry throat, Yeonjun nodded awkwardly, rubbing his hand in circular motions against Minjun’s stomach as he watched Beomgyu turn back to their son with a sad look in his gaze.

“I don’t think I could sit here alone.” He admitted, stunning Yeonjun with the honesty in his tone.

There was a part of him—the protective side, that wanted to draw Beomgyu closer, to help him ease the pain in his heart, but it felt too tender, surprising Yeonjun enough that held himself back.

An uncomfortable ache resonated in his chest, making him roll his shoulders back awkwardly as he turned back to their son.

“I am curious though…” Beomgyu continued, only furthering Yeonjun’s inner turmoil. He turned, met Beomgyu’s eyes, then felt his heart beat loudly in its cage when he asked, “Why did you stay?”

Tightening his lips, Yeonjun broke eye contact, turning back to his son. 

Flashes of his younger self played in his mind, unsettling him as he continued rubbing Minjun’s belly.

It felt wrong, almost forbidden to speak about it, yet he found that he didn’t mind. Not if it was Beomgyu he was telling it to.

“I’ve been poisoned many times before.” He restated, hesitating before continuing. “But-” Yeonjun tilted his head, his jaw tight as he tried to voice it out loud—his vulnerability. 

Sparing a glance upwards, Yeonjun met Beomgyu’s eyes, empathetic and patient as he continued stroking Minjun’s hair and it somehow left Yeonjun feeling comforted. Like he could say it out loud and not have to worry about being judged or ridiculed for it.

“No one was ever there for me.” He murmured, catching the way Beomgyu’s expression shifted into one of pity. He hated it but, at the same time, it was so different from the looks of judgment he was so used to receiving.

“You mentioned you weren’t close to your father…” Beomgyu muttered, his voice so soft and delicate that he almost didn’t hear it. “What about your mother?”

Scowling, Yeonjun shook his head, sparing a look at his son’s face before answering, “She wanted to raise me strong.” Yeonjun shifted his gaze onto Beomgyu. “That meant forcing me to go through tough experiences alone.”

Furrowing his brows, Beomgyu shook his head softly. “But- you were poisoned.”

Lifting his brows, Yeonjun shrugged lightly. “It didn’t matter, an emperor should be able to shoulder anything…”

Heavy silence filled the room, making the alpha feel uneasy—the weight of his trauma hanging thick between them as he rubbed Minjun’s stomach.

“The first time it happened…how old were you?” Beomgyu asked, his voice slightly breathless with horror, stealing Yeonjun’s attention.

Tightening his lips, Yeonjun’s eyes darted around Beomgyu’s face, slightly taken aback by the sad look in his eyes.

With an exhale, “Three.” Yeonjun murmured, his voice cracking a bit as he watched Beomgyu’s face contort with sorrow, his eyes drifting to Minjun as realization struck him.

“I see.” Beomgyu swallowed thickly.

They went silent after that and Yeonjun took the opportunity to release a bit more of his scent, knowing how comforting it could be for a child in pain.

In this specific scenario, he didn’t feel as lost as he usually did when it came to being a father. The reason being because he could distinctly remember everything he wanted when he was a child. How all he wanted was for his family to stay by his side—to comfort and care for him when he was at his weakest. He knew how vulnerable Minjun would feel. How scared he would be when he woke up.

Yeonjun simply couldn’t let him go through the same thing he did.

He wouldn’t allow it.

 

❦

 

With Minjun’s condition, Yeonjun couldn’t find it in himself to sleep. So he sat close to Minjun and Beomgyu, watching them sleep while he began putting his plan in motion.

In the night, he called for his servants, demanding they bring him a specific box of documents for him to review. It was thanks to those documents that he was able to walk into the meeting with the ministry with a sinister look in his gaze, unwavering as he scanned each and every one of them, determined to find the bastard responsible for harming his son.

All at once, the ministry bowed and Yeonjun couldn’t mask the bloodthirst in his scent as he eyed all eleven of them.

Together, they all lifted themselves from their bow. Meanwhile, Yeonjun didn’t waste a second of time with formalities.

“I’m giving you twenty seconds to come forward.” He called, his chest hot with anger as his eyes glared at each alpha.

Keonju, one of the oldest members, placed both hands on his abdomen as he asked, “Your highness, may I ask what you are referring to?”

The question may have been valid, but Yeonjun was running on zero hours of sleep, plagued with the thought of his son writhing in agony and Beomgyu crying helplessly.

Clenching his jaw, Yeonjun quickly stalked towards the man, smelling the sudden shift in everyone's scents when Yeonjun reached out and gripped his jaw harshly, forcing the man to look him in the eyes as he gripped his face hard enough to bruise.

“I’m talking about the bastard who poisoned my son!” He growled, asserting his dominance in a way that made everyone curl in on themselves. Gripping the man's jaw harder, Yeonjun brought him closer, looking down on the frail man as he widened his eyes in horror. “Was it you?” He then quickly snapped his head in the direction of the alpha woman right beside him. “Or maybe it was you.” He called, feeling his heart pound with adrenaline as he watched her curl in on herself.

Roughly, Yeonjun pushed the man back, hoping he would fall, but he managed to steady himself before he did.

Yeonjun slowly walked in front of the woman, his eyelids lowering as he watched her tremble with fear, eyes locked on the floor as he closed in on her.

“I hear you just had a baby.” He muttered, cocking his head when the woman froze, her face paling and breath shuddering out of her as she slowly lifted her head to meet his gaze. “How… unfortunate it would be if something were to happen to it.”

He began walking past her, his eyes lingering on the woman to study the way fear crippled her, rooting her to the spot as she sat with his silent threat.

Facing the next man, Yeonjun squinted dangerously, hating the way he seemed to hold himself together. “You, a man who has no care for his family but cares an awful lot about his ships.” 

He watched the man falter, his eyes meeting Yeonjun’s own in silent challenge, only infuriating Yeonjun more. “I do not need your vessels to keep my army strong but I doubt you would be anything if it weren’t for those boats.” Yeonjun taunted, watching as the man caught onto his threat. Leaning in, “Was it you? Did you poison my son?”

Shaking, the man clenched his jaw. “I didn't , your highness.” He said, making Yeonjun jittery with frustration as he saw the man slowly begin to crumble beneath his gaze.

With the nastiest scowl known to man, Yeonjun slowly backed away, staring at each one of them as they all avoided his stare.

“Your twenty seconds are up.” Yeonjun spoke darkly, eyeing the woman he threatened, squinted at the way she seemed to be restraining herself. “I know everything about you. All of you.” His eyes studied each one of them closely. “I suggest you come clean now or you will all face the consequences.”

They all remained silent and Yeonjun smiled wickedly, unhinged as he prepared to do what he did best.

“No one?”

More silence followed and Yeonjun’s smile quickly fell. “Very well.” He turned away, signaling for the guard to follow after him. “Gather a group of men and carry out everything as planned.” He demanded, his face stoic as he heard the entire ministry begin to panic.

Then, just as he went to step out of the room, “It was Weisan!” Screamed the woman, and Yeonjun halted, allowing the confession to sink in for a moment before he slowly turned, eying the woman as she cried where she stood, though he paid her only a second of his attention before fixing his glare on the accused.

Weisan was one of the older ones who constantly bugged Yeonjun about giving some power to the ministry when it came to making decisions.

Inhaling deeply, Yeonjun slowly turned away, watching as Weisan snapped his head in Yeonjun’s direction, looking far too guilty to make Yeonjun question his innocence.

“Y-your highness, she’s lying!” He screeched when he noticed Yeonjun turning around and stepping in his direction.

“Is she now?” Yeonjun growled, walking a bit faster as memories of Minjun and Beomgyu filled his head, fueling his anger as he watched the man stumble backwards.

“Y-yes, I would never- nch!” He choked on his words when Yeonjun gripped his throat, tight enough to seal his breath and make the man’s eyes bulge.

“You would never, yet you already have.” Yeonjun spat, digging his fingers into his throat even harder as he loomed over him. “I hear you have an omega and a young daughter.” Yeonjun widened his eyes. “Maybe I should have them both killed before your eyes.” Yeonjun watched as his eyes began to water, choked sounds escaping his lips as he clawed at Yeonjun’s hand for air. “No?” Yeonjun cocked his head. “What’s the matter, did you think that I would suddenly care about a child now that I have one of my own?” Yeonjun yanked him closer so he could look him directly in the eyes, his body thrumming with rage as he watched the man tremble in his hold. “I do not care about anything other than those two and you made a grave mistake attacking them.”

Yeonjun dug his fingers in his throat so hard his nails pierced the man’s skin. “Now you will die for it.” He announced, throwing the man onto the floor and feeling his chest bloom with satisfaction as he watched the man cough horrifically for air, clutching at his throat.

“Seize him.” Yeonjun ordered, watching with a stoic expression as guards rushed past him to yank the minister off the ground. Yeonjun didn’t take his eyes off the man as he gave one last order. “Find his wife and daughter and banish them.” Yeonjun waited for the man to meet his gaze before smiling wickedly. “Make sure they know it’s because of this man’s crime against the crown and that he will be tortured and executed for it.”

In front of him, the man stared at him wide eyed, bumbling out choked pleas that Yeonjun couldn't understand through his crushed windpipe. Not that he cared enough in the first place.

“Yes sir.” Spoke the guards, dragging him away as he began releasing cracked screams that echoed through the palace, filling Yeonjun with a deep satisfaction as he listened to the man’s helpless cry as he was carried to his death.

With Weisan’s screams echoing throughout the great halls, Yeonjun turned to the rest of the ministry, their fear not only potent in their scents but painted on their faces.

Good.

“Remember this,” He declared, his voice echoing through the hall, “if you ever harm my family, you will meet the same fate.” He let his words settle, allowing each minister to absorb the weight of his warning before he turned, leaving them to sit with the bone chilling promise. One he intended on keeping.

 

❦

 

“It’s not that I was obsessed with you…

“I am obsessed… “

“now…”

“always.”

At the reminder of Yeonjun’s words, Beomgyu tightened his lips, the thump of his heart as confusing as it was terrifying.

Those words, they should have frightened him. The fact that Yeonjun’s obsession with him ran so deep, it should have driven him away. 

So why did his heart beat so wildly at the remembrance of it.p? Why couldn’t he forget the way Yeonjun gazed at him so intently while speaking words so-

So…

Terrifying.

The man was deranged—undoubtedly a result of an awful upbringing and solitude, yet, somehow, Beomgyu managed to see past all of it, focusing on the man who simply needed someone to care for. And that someone was currently fast asleep, furrowing his brows as he dreamt.

Smiling sadly, Beomgyu stroked the area between his brows, wanting to provide Minjun as much comfort as he could. He couldn’t take his pain for him, so remaining by his side and easing his mind was the best he could do.

Again, Beomgyu’s thoughts drifted back to Yeonjun—the way the emperor’s face was pinched with concern, the gentle way he handled Minjun’s body—massaging his belly, checking his temperature and wiping the sweat from his skin.

Heat bloomed in Beomgyu’s chest when he recalled how soft Yeonjun had looked and he found himself faltering upon realizing he was thinking about him again.

 “You’re dangerous.” Beomgyu muttered.

“I think you like that.” Sliding his hand onto Beomgyu’s cheek, Yeonjun stroked his skin with the pad of his thumb, bringing unimaginable heat to Beomgyu’s face. “Isn’t that the reason you warmed my bed all those years ago?”

Huffing loudly, Beomgyu drew his hand away from Minjun, his mind lingering on how brazen Yeonjun was earlier, telling him all of those things.

He just wished they weren’t true.

Squeezing his eyes shut, Beomgyu ran his fingers through his hair, only to flinch when he heard Minjun intake a sharp breath of air.

Sitting up straighter, Beomgyu stared down at him, reaching for his hand when he saw Minjun began to stir, grimacing as he gripped Beomgyu’s hand.

“Minjun?” Beomgyu muttered, cupping his hand in his palms as he watched his son stir some more.

When Minjun squeezed his eyes together then slowly cracked them open a sliver, tears quickly filled Beomgyu’s eyes, a relieved smile stretched across his face as he darted a hand out to stroke his face.

“Baby.” Beomgyu called.

Disoriented and still half asleep, “Ba?” Minjun croaked, pinching his brows together as he began to stir some more.

Laughing as he cried, Beomgyu nodded. “I’m here. I’m right here.” He reassured him, moved his wrist to Minjun’s neck so he could rub it on his scent gland.

Closing his eyes again, Minjun’s lips pursed, wobbling as he brought a hand to his stomach and curled in on himself. “Appa, it hurts.” He croaked, his small voice sounding even squeakier as he gripped Beomgyu’s hand weakly.

“I know honey.” Beomgyu’s voice trembled and, just as he opened his mouth to spew out some reassurances, the sheer doors slid open to reveal a stoic looking Yeonjun.

However, once the alpha caught sight of Minjun, his entire demeanor shifted from a levelheaded emperor to a concerned father.

Rushing inside, Yeonjun darted his eyes between the two of them. “He’s-” Yeonjun turned to Minjun. “You’re awake.” Yeonjun called, kneeling beside his bed roll as Minjun blinked up at him.

“Papa.” Minjun called and it broke Beomgyu’s heart seeing the way his son’s eyes watered. “You’re here?”

Seeing Yeonjun’s expression crack, vulnerability spilling onto his features as he nodded quickly. “I’m here.” Yeonjun breathed, reaching out to touch Minjun’s forehead. Beomgyu eyed the action carefully, watching as Yeonjun’s hand twitched, hesitating before the emperor gave in and allowed his hand to fall on Minjun’s forehead. “Your fever’s gone down quite a bit.” He spoke with clear relief in his tone.

Then Beomgyu saw it, the way Minjun reached up to grab onto Yeonjun’s hand, curling his small fingers around Yeonjun’s much larger ones, making Beomgyu’s heart flood with warmth. The warmth only amplified when Yeonjun’s eyes widened, his body stiffening as Minjun held his hand.

“I had a scary dream.” Minjun murmured, his eyes hazy and cheeks damp with tears as he blinked up at Yeonjun.

Both parents furrowed their brows, waiting for him to elaborate.

“It was dark. Scary.” Minjun sniffled. “And you and Ba weren’t there.” He croaked, making Beomgyu’s chest feel tight as he furrowed his brows.

Stroking Minjun’s hand, Beomgyu lifted it to place a kiss on the inside of his wrist, turning to Yeonjun when he said, “That won’t happen.”

From Minjun’s forehead, Yeonjun moved their clasped hands onto the boy’s chest, right over his heart, where he tightened his hold on their son’s hand. “I won’t ever let that happen.” Yeonjun repeated, the conviction in his words enough to send Beomgyu’s heart tumbling in his chest, the soft promise filling Beomgyu with warmth as he watched the encounter.

This was a version of Yeonjun he wasn’t familiar with—tender and quiet and so vastly different from the heartless emperor he’s come to know.

Shifting his gaze between the two, Beomgyu’s breath hitched when Yeonjun turned to him, something heavy lingering in the air as they gazed at one another.

“Papa will stay?” Murmured Minjun, stealing their attention completely.

The boy was already drifting back to sleep, his eyes droopy and body limp as he held both of their hands loosely.

Yeonjun gently stroked Minjun’s hand with his thumb, conviction in his gaze as he said, “I will stay.”

Closing his eyes, “Ba, you’ll stay too?” Muttered the prince, making Beomgyu smile sadly.

“Of course my love.” Beomgyu reassured, bending down to place a sweet kiss on Minjun’s forehead, right before he fell into a deep slumber.

For a moment, they just stared, basking in the silence until Beomgyu thought of something.

“He trusts you.” Beomgyu muttered, turning to look at the alpha who glanced at him with so much depth in his gaze.

He watched as Yeonjun swallowed thickly, his eyes falling to look at their son and Beomgyu saw various emotions wash over him all at once. 

Slowly, almost hesitantly, Yeonjun met his gaze once more, eyes filled with an intensity that left Beomgyu holding his breath. 

Silence washed over them and Beomgyu felt a strange warmth creep up his neck. There was something magnetic about Yeonjun—something unsettling as he felt a pull in his heart, urging him to get closer but the thought left his stomach sinking with fright.

Yeonjun seemed to face the same dilemma and instead swallowed thickly, turning back to Minjun as he stroked his hand gently. “He’s…” Yeonjun winced. “ Precious to me.” Admitted the emperor, leaving Beomgyu’s lips parting in shock.

Swallowing thickly, Yeonjun furrowed his brows before shifting his gaze back onto Beomgyu. “I want to keep him safe.” He admitted and Beomgyu found himself smiling gently, understanding his feelings perfectly.

“That’s what being a parent is.” Beomgyu lowered Minjun’s hand onto his silks then lifted a hand to place it on Minjun’s cheek. “It’s wanting to keep them safe and being terrified when you realize you can’t protect them from everything.”

Sighing, Yeonjun hummed. “Maybe. But I truly won’t let anything else happen to him.” Yeonjun said, his tone far too serious that Beomgyu let out a soft chuckle.

Turning to the emperor, he laughed again when he saw him furrowing his brows, completely serious. 

“That’s sweet but…he’s going to get hurt again.’ Beomgyu said, feeling sour at the reality of it. Looking at their son, “What matters is that we’re there for him when he needs us…” Beomgyu’s eyes lifted to meet Yeonjun’s own. “Like now.”

For a moment, Yeonjun blinked at him, his troubled expression becoming all the more serious. “I can take certain precautions to ensure nothing else happens to him.” Yeonjun tried again, drawing another laugh out of Beomgyu.

Shaking his head from left to right, Beomgyu removed his hand from Minjun’s cheek and mindlessly placed it over Yeonjun’s so all three of their hands were stacked together.

“You can’t shield him from everything. A little pain is needed.” Beomgyu teased, blinking when he didn’t get a response to his words but rather a startled look from the alpha.

It wasn’t until Yeonjun’s eyes slipped downwards, eyeing their joined hands, that Beomgyu realized he was holding his hand.

For a moment, Beomgyu let it linger, savoring the warmth of his skin before gently releasing him.

“Where did you go this morning?” Beomgyu suddenly asked, wanting to divert his attention from the random touch.

Tightening his jaw, Yeonjun straightened out. “I found the one responsible. It was a minister.”

Furrowing his brows, Beomgyu nodded slowly. He almost wanted to ask what Yeonjun did with him, but at the same time, he never wanted to know. He trusted Yeonjun dealt with him accordingly…the extent of which he was punished was something Beomgyu didn’t need to know.

Swallowing thickly, Beomgyu cleared his throat. “That is good then.” Lifting his brows. “I assume we won’t have to worry about an incident like this again?”

In front of him, the emperor’s eyes went dark, once again reminding Beomgyu how dangerous he was. “Never again.” Yeonjun muttered, the conviction in his tone nearly making him shiver as he took in the way Yeonjun was staring at him. As if…he were prepared to do anything for him.

The scary part was that Beomgyu knew he truly would do anything for him.

He was simply deciding on whether it was a good or bad thing.

❦

 

The following weeks went splendidly well.

Minjun recovered within six days and Yeonjun and Beomgyu managed to find peace, most likely a result of going through something so frightening together.

The only issue was that their newfound peace was starting to feel a bit too comfortable.

Moments where they’d be walking outside with Minjun and accidentally brush up against each other, both of them pulling away as slowly as they could before proceeding down the path.

Or the conversation he overheard Yeonjun having with a member of the ministry where Yeonjun told off a minister for bringing up the fact that Yeonjun was spending too much time with them.

At the time, his heart may have fluttered, but it was nothing compared to later that evening. He stood by the fountain, watching Minjun toss a silver coin in the water when he felt someone come up behind him. It was Yeonjun, smelling as addictive as he normally did, only, it seemed to affect Beomgyu more than it should have. One whiff of Yeonjun’s pheromones and he was sweating, dampening between his legs and aching for something he hasn’t had for months.

Shortly after, Yeonjun would murmur, “You smell off.” Forcing Beomgyu to come to the horrifying conclusion that his heat was fast approaching.

Which led him to where he was now.

Clearing his throat, Beomgyu knocked on the wooden frame of Yeonjun’s office, peeking his head out from behind the wall with a nervous glint in his eyes.

Lifting his head from his paperwork, Yeonjun’s brows furrowed in question. “I thought we weren’t meeting until the evening.”

Entering the room, Beomgyu felt a bit lightheaded upon smelling Yeonjun’s potent scent.

Clearing his throat. “About that I…” Beomgyu’s eyes drifted to Yeonjun’s chest. “Won’t be able to make it.” He stated, feeling sweat gather at his neckline when Yeonjun squinted at him in suspicion.

A moment of silence, then,“Why?” Yeonjun asked.

Swallowing thickly, Beomgyu tried to keep himself in check, yet he found it to be difficult when all he could smell was Yeonjun, sitting behind his desk, hair tousled and robes undone enough to reveal parts of his chest.

“I…” Beomgyu breathed, flushing a little as he willed himself to come out and say it. “I’m…in preheat.” He admitted, watching with rapt attention as Yeonjun’s entire expression dropped, shock and a glimpse of interest flashing in his gaze as he studied Beomgyu closely.

“Ah…” Yeonjun answered, licking his lips as he trailed his eyes down Beomgyu’s frame. S uddenly, Yeonjun froze, cocking his head and meeting Beomgyu’s eyes as he licked the inside of his cheek. “Why are you telling me?”

Blinking, “Hm?” Beomgyu squeaked, feeling his body pulse with heat as he watched Yeonjun’s eyelids lower in suspicion.

Then, making his heart thump madly in his chest, Yeonjun stood out of his chair then slowly stepped out from behind his desk.

“I mean why did you come here to tell me-” Yeonjun continued walking across the room. “Smelling as tempting as you do-” He lowered his voice, taking those final three steps forward so they were face to face. “-when you could have just sent a maid?”

Releasing a shuddering exhale, Beomgyu hesitantly looked up, batting his eyelashes at the alpha who was staring at him with the heaviest look in his eyes.

Beomgyu swallowed around the tightness in his throat, overly aware of his presence as he struggled to find an answer even though, deep down, he knew why he came here and so did Yeonjun.

“I…” Beomgyu stepped closer, breathing heavier when he saw Yeonjun’s eyes dilate, his lips tightening as his eyes fell to Beomgyu’s lips. “I want you to…” Beomgyu took another step, lifting hand to place it on Yeonjun’s bare chest.

Leaning down, Yeonjun’s breath wisped against Beomgyu’s lips, making him shudder.

Gripping the silk of Yeonjun’s robes, he furrowed his brows, heaving for air as he pleaded, “Spend it with me.”

With a heavy breath, Yeonjun’s hands fell onto Beomgyu’s waist, making him gasp as he slid his hand further up Yeonjun’s body, looping an arm around his neck as he furrowed his brows in desperation.

With hooded eyes, Yeonjun nodded, not saying a word as he held Beomgyu tighter, tugging him closer until their bodies pressed together and their lips met in a searing kiss.

❦

 

Feeling Yeonjun again, it was unlike anything Beomgyu has ever experienced. Not with any of the other alpha’s he’s slept with. Not with Taehyun and not even like his first time with Yeonjun.

Yes, his heat might have influenced his level of pleasure but, even still, it was unlike any of his other heats.

The way Yeonjun seemed to consume him whole, lathering him with bite marks and hickies as he moved inside of him, groaning into his ear, telling Beomgyu he was his— it was mind consuming. Heartbreakingly good in a way he couldn’t describe and so overwhelming that it frightened him. Especially when Yeonjun would turn him around, pinning his wrist to the bed and gazing into his eyes as he moved slowly but roughly. 

It not only brought heat to his belly but his heart as well, amplifying his pleasure in a way he never thought possible.

Even as the days passed, the feeling persisted, confusing Beomgyu more and more every time he would look into Yeonjun’s eyes and feel his heart beat pathetically for him.

Tiredly, Beomgyu laid against Yeonjun’s chest, their skin sticking together as they both heaved for air.

Lazily, Beomgyu drew shapes on Yeonjun’s chest, his eyes droopy with exhaustion as he felt himself come down from his high.

“I think….I’m bleeding.” Yeonjun muttered, his voice raspy. 

Pausing his motions against Yeonjun’s chest, Beomgyu tilted his head up to meet his gaze, his heart skipping a beat at the heavy look in Yeonjun’s gaze.

“You’re bleeding?” Beomgyu murmured, slowly resuming tracing patterns on Yeonjun’s skin as the alpha eyed him hungrily.

“Mmm.” Yeonjun hummed, snaking his arm around Beomgyu’s naked body to tug him closer into his side.

With a gasp, Beomgyu braced himself on his chest, feeling his stomach flutter when their noses brushed and their breath intertwined.

“Your nails…” Yeonjun whispered, tilting his head so their lips brushed. “They cut quite deep.”

Swallowing thickly, Beomgyu met his heavy lidded gaze. “Does it hurt?” He whispered, smoothing his hand along the plane of his chest and swiftly throwing a leg over his body so he was laying on top of him.

Falling back against the bedroll, Yeonjun smirked at him, smoothing his hands along the curve of his waist. “I like it.” Yeonjun dragged a hand onto Beomgyu’s back then dragged it all the way up his body to cup his nape and pull him closer. “I wish you cut me deeper so I’d remember it longer.”

Feeling his cock pulse against Yeonjun’s abdomen, Beomgyu flushed from head to toe.

“What about you?” Yeonjun questioned, slipping his fingers into Beomgyu’s hair as they held eye contact. “All those bite marks must hurt…” Yeonjun announced, though, his voice sounded a bit too smug for there to be any actual concern.

Feeling himself heat even more, Beomgyu grabbed onto Yeonjun’s hand, pulling it off of his waist so he could intertwine their fingers.

Burying his head in the junction between Yeonjun’s neck and shoulder, “I…like it.” He murmured, flustered and overwhelmed when he felt Yeonjun’s scent sweeten, leading Beomgyu to nuzzle against his scent gland, gasping when it made the alpha grip onto his hair tighter, holding him there.

“I can give you another one.” Yeonjun breathed, slipping his hand out of Beomgyu’s hair to glide it over Beomgyu’s swollen scent gland. “Right here.” He offered, stroking it lightly and drawing a wet gasp from Beomgyu’s lips.

Furrowing his brows, Beomgyu gripped onto Yeonjun’s hand tighter, pressing it against the silk as he grit his teeth, trying to hold himself back from biting down on Yeonjun.

“Don’t be stupid.” Beomgyu breathed, resting his forehead on Yeonjun’s shoulder as the alpha continued stroking his scent gland, trying to get him to give in.

“It’s not stupid.” Yeonjun pressed his thumb against the gland and Beomgyu gasped, lightly rutting his hips against Yeonjun’s abdomen. 

Teasingly, Yeonjun turned his head to whisper in his ear, “I want you to be bound to me.” And Beomgyu felt his cock twitch pathetically, his slick potent in the air around them as he tried to think rationally and not with his post-heat hormones.

“N-no.” Beomgyu refused, squeezing his eyes shut and shuddering when Yeonjun pressed a kiss to his ear.

“Do you not want me?” Yeonjun asked, thought Beomgyu knew he didn’t mean it in a sexual manner because that much was obvious.

Pulling himself off of his shoulder, Beomgyu met his gaze, furrowing his brows when he saw Yeonjun’s eyes filled with inquisition, as if he couldn’t read him at all.

Bringing his free hand to Yeonjun’s cheek, Beomgyu gently stroked under his eye, enamored by the way Yeonjun’s eyes seemed to light up and his scent seemed to flare to life.

“I…do not know what I want.” Beomgyu admitted, his mind muddled with thoughts of his old life and new—Taehyun, Grandma Jae, his father, his country and…their son.

Dragging his fingers to Yeonjun’s lips, Beomgyu stroked them as if in a daze. “I do not know yet…so…” Beomgyu dipped down lower. “Give me time to figure it out.” He pleaded, surprised to see understanding in Yeonjun’s gaze.

Tightening his hold on Beomgyu’s hand, Yeonjun nodded slowly then removed his other hand from Beomgyu’s scent gland. “Then…” Yeonjun dragged his fingers over the knobs of his spine. “Can I ask if you feel anything now?” He murmured, drawing circles over Beomgyu’s lower back, drawing more shudders down his spine.

With heated cheeks and a racing heart, Beomgyu looked into his eyes. “I-” With a gasp, Beomgyu squeezed his eyes shut, unprepared for his fingers to press inside of him.

Before he could get a word in, Yeonjun lifted his head and pressed their lips together, stealing Beomgyu’s breath as he pressed his fingers in deeper, forcing Beomgyu’s hips to grind against him.

Even though he was sore, exhausted, and lacking strength, Beomgyu let Yeonjun spread his legs wider and fuck him until he could no longer remember what they were talking about in the first place.

It wasn’t until he came, trembling violently and dripping in sweat that he remembered, falling asleep to Yeonjun’s whispered promises and constant touches.

❦

Standing by the window of his study, Yeonjun gazed at the palace gardens down below, wondering if Minjun and Beomgyu were playing outside. 

Holding his hands behind his back, Yeonjun stood tall, inhaling as he felt the weight of his emotions in his chest.

It used to be a different weight—loneliness and despair, yet he found that things were… different now. The weight in his chest was not one of pain but of warmth. An indescribable feeling that filled him with so much conflict that he didn’t know what to do with himself.

What he felt, it went against everything an emperor stood for—everything he was supposed to embody. Emotionless, daunting, powerful, with no weaknesses. Yet….he now had two. Two achingly precious weaknesses that made his skin prickle with nerves every time he thought of something happening to them.

“Attachments lead to ruin. Fear nothing. Love nothing.”

Fear nothing. Love…nothing.

Those were the words his father preached every time he saw the man. Those were the words he lived by. Until-

Tightening his lips, Yeonjun felt his heart twist with emotion, bringing a troubled look to his face as he watched the flowers in the garden sway in the gentle summer breeze.

His thoughts were interrupted by the sound of small but loud footsteps racing down the hall, followed by an excited shout of, “Papa!”

Yeonjun’s heart twisted again. He turned around, met the eyes of his son and felt his chest heat with inexplicable emotions.

There, in the entryway, his son came rushing inside, his skin flushed from running in the heat as he approached the emperor.

Once he stood in front of Yeonjun, “I picked these for you!” He exclaimed, drawing Yeonjun’s attention to his fist held proudly in the air, broken flowers hanging on for dear life on their stems.

“Ah-” Yeonjun furrowed his brows, slowly holding out his palm. “For me?” Yeonjun asked, raising his brows in faint shock.

Excitedly, Minjun nodded, placing the messy heap of flowers in Yeonjun’s palm. “You have to keep them on your desk so you can see them a lot!” He explained, and Yeonjun found his lips lifting a fraction before he could stop himself.

Lifting the flowers to better examine them, “Thank you…” Yeonjun muttered, the words of gratitude still a bit foreign to him but, if the way Minjun beamed with joy was any indication, it was the right thing to say.

Behind Minjun, the sound of footsteps filled his ears once more, steps he could easily recognize, making his chest burn with a different kind of heat.

Yeonjun lifted his eyes just in time to see Beomgyu coming through the entrance, his eyes shining with amusement as he approached them.

“He was insistent we give them to you now.” Beomgyu explained, locking eyes with him and sending Yeonjun’s back straightening out.

Uncharacteristically, Yeonjun held the flowers delicately. “It’s alright. I wasn’t doing much.”

Only thinking of you.

“Hmm.” Beomgyu hummed, his smile lingering as he stalked closer, sending Yeonjun’s heart thumping wildly against his ribcage. The beat of it only increased when he caught a whiff of Beomgyu’s fresh scent.

He eyed his every movement, his eyes following Beomgyu as he crouched down to Minjun’s level.

“Should we show papa the artwork you did?” Beomgyu suggested, rubbing a hand against Minjun’s back as he smiled at him and Yeonjun felt captivated once more.

Minjun stole his attention when he gasped. “Papa! You have to see what we did!” He exclaimed, reaching out to grab Yeonjun’s hand, making his eyes widen and his hand twitch.

It took a second, but Yeonjun allowed his hand to relax, tentatively wrapping around Minjun’s smaller one as he guided Yeonjun down to the fountain in the gardens.

There, he saw a wooden table set up beneath the willow tree, littered with various parchments and paints.

Minjun ran ahead of them both, excitedly looking for one of his pictures and Beomgyu and Yeonjun strolled slowly behind.

“Just, don’t be too critical.” Beomgyu called, drawing Yeonjun’s attention to the man on his right.

Blinking, “What?”

With a pleading smile, Beomgyu stared up at him, rendering Yeonjun breathless as he took in the way the sunlight illuminated his features.

“He doesn’t really know how to draw yet so…” Beomgyu squinted, leaning in a fraction. “Just be kind no matter what it looks like.

Thinning his lips, Yeonjun nodded.

Taking a seat on the edge of the fountain, he waited for Minjun to grab his painting, Beomgyu beside him, sitting close enough that their robes brushed. Yeonjun found his gaze drifting to Beomgyu and the way he gazed so fondly at Minjun.

Then, catching him off guard, Beomgyu drifted his gaze to Yeonjun, making his heart still in his chest as their eyes met. Call him crazy, but he swore time stood still for a moment.

Beomgyu’s expression…he couldn’t read it, yet he swore there was something in his gaze—something that made Yeonjun’s heart constrict and his breath escape his lungs.

“Look Papa!” Minjun called, pulling Yeonjun out of his daze as he turned to his son.

There, he saw Minjun presenting a painting, still a little damp, which stained the boy’s fingers.

Yeonjun reached out mindlessly, but when his eyes fell to the painting he paused, breathing hitching as he realized-

“It’s all of us!” Minjun beamed and Yeonjun’s brows furrowed, hesitantly taking the picture from his hands as he scanned the messy artwork.

“Look-” Minjun stood between Yeonjun and Beeomgyu’s legs to point at it. “This is Ba. That’s me. And that’s you!” Minjun told him, lifting his head to look at Yeonjun, but the emperor couldn’t take his eyes off of it.

Three figures standing beneath a bright sun, one dressed in light green, another in navy blue and the last one in… red. 

Him.

It was… Yeonjun.

Inhaling sharply, Yeonjun’s brows pinched tighter. “It’s…perfect.” He muttered, turning to Minjun just in time to see his smile turn toothy.

“Ba helped me make it!” Cheered the boy, and Yeonjun allowed his eyes to drift to Beomgyu, his lips lifting when he saw beomgyu fluster slightly.

“I’m…not the best at painting.” He admitted, making Yeonjun’s smile grow as he held the painting securely in his hand.

Behind them, the sun began to set, casting golden beams across the gardens, making Minjun and Beomgyu shine as they ranted about their painting. Sitting there, just listening to them talk, Yeonjun felt oddly at peace.

“Attachments lead to ruin. Fear nothing. Love nothing.”

“Love is a weakness.”

Yes…but would that be so bad?

It felt wrong—foolish of him to even question, yet, for the first time in what felt like forever, Yeonjun allowed himself to hope—hope that their family, as imperfect as it was, could one day become the greatest strength in his life.

An emperor who loved…