“You’re finally awake.” Minseok lifts his arms in a stretch, bringing them down so the blankets bunch under his arm pits. His cat, thrilled with more hands, moves to sit closer to him.

“I’m finally awake? Look who else is still in bed.”

“But I was up earlier. Fed the cats, washed laundry, started coffee...” A heavy aroma tempts Joonmyun, but the cool air keeps him bundled.

Joonmyun sighs. “I should go...”

“You could stay. It’s cold out.” From his recumbent position, Minseok can only see sky through the clear middle of the window. Frost frames it like delicate lace.

“I could, but I’m not one of your cats. Besides, they’ll ask questions when I’m gone too long.” They didn’t care so much before he returned, but now the palace is divided. Some people are thrilled to see him and dare to hope for change; others are content with their positions and don’t welcome threats to power.

Minseok draws both hands down the cat’s head, flattening the fur and smiling at its considerably smaller appearance. “I could take care of you.”