Daehyun walked happily through the hallway proud of Youngjae’s special uniform that he designed himself. He also had Youngjae’s outfit that he was going to have him wear at the end of the week for the ball itself.

“Man, I can’t wait to see him in this.” Daehyun smiled to himself entering the room putting the clothing in a safe place. He noticed a piece of paper on his bed. He picked it up to see that it was a letter. The letter read:

‘Dear Daehyun,

We could not wait for you guys any longer. So we went to the village without you two. Plus we know you guys had stuff to do. Don’t miss us too much’

-Jongup

P.S. Sorry Youngjae, we would’ve taken you with us but we couldn’t find you but, we’ll say hi to the others for you!

-Zelo’

Daehyun smiled to himself and shook his head dropping the letter back onto the bed. He was so hapy to be with Youngjae, everything was going great, and nothing could ruin it. “What am I supposed to do now?” Daehyun thought out loud. With Youngjae at his meeting and the others out, there was nothing for him to do.

The prince decided to go outside and roam around in the palace garden. It’s been a while since he’s been in this part of the palace, he was never really fond of flowers, it never caught his interest, but the scenery was nice. As he walked through the garden he noticed someone humming a sweet melody that only he and one other person knew.

Daehyun couldn’t help but hum along to it, it was a mesmerizing, beautiful, precious toon. He didn’t stop humming until he bumped into the person who was humming the same toon. “Oh, I’m sorry.” Daehyun apologized helping the girl pick up her flowers. “No, I’m sorry.” She apologized. “No need to…” Daehyun’s voice trailed off as the two made eye contact.

In front of him was a beautiful girl with long, flowing, soft brown hair, and green blazing eyes. “P-P-Princess May…” Daehyun could barely get his words out. The Kwon Princess giggled lightly to herself at the Prince’s cuteness. “Yes, that is me.” She said.

The two stood up before speaking again. “It’s been a while huh?” She said bashfully. “Just a little over a few months or so.” Daehyun smiled. “That’s a long time.” She said. Seemed pretty fast to me, Daehyun thought to himself. The prince felt bad. He had forgotten about her since his whole venture with the peasant boy.

“So~…You’re attending the royal ball?” Daehyun asked awkwardly as they walked throughout the garden. Princess May just nodded. She wrapped her arm around Daehyun’s strong one and rest her head on his shoulder, like she was used to doing. This made Daehyun feel very uncomfortable and somewhat offended.

“Look!” Daehyun said pulling away running towards something. The Princess quickly followed behind him. “What is it?” She asked. “Look.” Daehyun said bending down. “It’s just flowers, like everything else in the garden.” She pointed out chuckling a little. “Exactly.” Daehyun said.

The Princess shook her head smiling and the two continued to walking and May remained close to Daehyun. “Remember when we used to sing together?” Princess May said as she reflected on past memories that they enjoyed together. “We always do.” Daehyun remarked. “I know…but it’s always nice, looking back at past memories. I would always be so sad to leave because that meant I couldn’t listen to your beautiful voice. You know…you have a really nice singing voice.” She smiled softly.

“I get that quite often, because of you.” Daehyun smiled, being friendly. The two walked and talked enjoying themselves, enjoying each other’s company. One of the servants saw the two walking along the garden on her way back to the palace. “Did you know that Princess May is here?” She asked her friend as she did her work.

“No, the Kwon family arrived already?” Her friend asked. “No, but Princess May has come early. I just saw her walking in the garden with his highness Prince Daehyun.” The servant informed.

Her friend stopped what she was doing and looked at her. “Really?” She asked. “Yes. Their arms were interlocked and they were smiling and laughing, it was so beautiful.” The servant girl said in a dreamy tone. “Oh my gosh! Jinja?! They make such a good couple>” the friend said. “Kya!” the two girls squealed. “Princess May is really pretty.” The servant girl said going back to her work. “I wish I had beauty like that, then maybe Prince Daehyun would like me.” The servant friends wished, doing the same. “You know His Majesty wouldn’t even think twice about being with a servant girl.” The servant girl said.

“You don’t know that, after all that peasant boy, Youngjae, has the Prince’s favor.” The friend pouted. “You know that his highness is 18 years old, and this year he’ll choose his Princess and will be married at age 21 or 23.” The servant girl mentioned. “Oh yeah…Rumor has it that Prince Daehyun already chose his Princess, and that’s Princess May. He’s going to announce it at the ball.” Her friends added.

“So that peasant better enjoy the last of his time here because when the day comes he’ll surely lose the Prince’s favor and will be kicked out.” The girl said. Her friend nodded in agreement. Youngjae heard this, he heard everything the girls had said.

Youngjae hadn’t known any of this and it hurt him a little, but he tried to shake it off; Daehyun would’ve told me sooner or later about this whole engagement thing. Youngjae assured himself. Though he had some doubt. But he wouldn’t choose someone else over him that’s what he said.

Youngjae kept thinking to himself, but no matter what he did or thought the poor peasant boy couldn’t help but take a sneak peek outside to see for himself. And what he heard was true. He saw Daehyun with a girl who was hugging his arm and Daehyun was letting her, smiling laughing, and talking!

“What are you doing?” Someone asked causing Youngjae to jump, to see that it was Daehyun’s sister. “Nothing.” Youngjae answered. The Princess just looked at him. “Shouldn’t you be with Daehyun?” She said nearly in disgust. “He’s…He’s busy right now.” Youngjae answered with composure walking away though he felt terrible on the inside. The Princess raised an eyebrow and looked outside to see her younger brother with Princess May. The Jung Princess smiled in satisfaction.

Youngjae hurried through the hall, up the stairs all the way to Daehyun’s room. “Okay, maybe Daehyun has a good explanation for his.” Youngjae said trying to be optimistic. “Don’t listen to what those girls said. They don’t know anything Youngjae told himself.

Everything was going well for the two, no everything was going perfect for them. Everything that was sacred between them was heart felt. Youngjae believed everything that Daehyun said to him and took it to heart. So what is this all of a sudden? Who is this Princess May that suddenly came into the picture?

Youngjae tried to remain calm and kept from making conclusions. But the longer he waited the more anxious he became. He couldn’t take the suspense, he didn’t like not knowing. But there was nothing else for him to do. The boy triedhard to keep his emotions from taking control of him, but he couldn’t keep one rebellious tear from running down his cheek.

Hours later Daehyun came into his room to see Youngjae curled up on one of the couches. “Youngjae?” He said walking over to the younger’s side. “…What’s wrong?” He asked caressing his hair. “I tried…” the younger squeaked.

“Hm? Tried what?” Daehyun asked. “I tried not to jump into any conclusions…I tried not to listen to their conversation but…” Youngjae didn’t finish. “What happened?” The Prince asked. “I overheard some girls talking about the ball and how…you would choose a princess to possibly be…your bride.” Youngjae said speaking like a sad little child.

Daehyun raised an eyebrow at this but didn’t say anything letting the younger finish. “…and one of the girls had said that they saw you with her out in the garden…and…and...” Youngjae stopped for a bit before continuing. “…and I couldn’t help myself, so I peeked outside…and saw you guys.” He confessed.

Daehyun continued to run his fingers through the younger’s soft hair. “I didn’t know what to think Daehyun. It did hurt a little, but I knew you had a good explanation, but the longer I waited for you to come back the more my emotions took over.” Youngjae said. “And I-,” Youngjae was cut off by a kiss from Daehyun.

“It’s okay.” Daehyun smiled gently at the younger. “I should’ve explained everything earlier to you about this, and I’m sorry for not doing so. It just never crossed my mind until now. The girl you saw me with is Princess May from the Kwon Kingdom. During my 18^th year I’m supposed to choose my princess and everything you pretty much heard is mostly true.” Daehyun began.

“Last year I had chosen my princess, which was Princess May. And I planned to announce it at the ball this year.” Daehyun explained. “However…” the prince smirked.

“Plans have changed.” He smiled causeing Youngjae to blush a little. “I’m sorry.” Youngjae apologized quietly. “Don’t be. You didn’t know. Just next time know that without a doubt I won’t ever choose anyone but you.” Daehyun ssured. Youngjae nodded.

“Ah~…I feel so embarrassed.” Youngjae said rolling over burying his face into the cushion. Daehyun laughed a little and laid down besides the peasant boy. “But you know what I realized while being with May today?” Daehyun said. “What?” Youngjae asked through the cushion. “How much I love you.” Daehyun cooed. Youngjae didn’t respond. “What?” the elder asked.

“You’re terrible.” Youngjae remarked. Daehyun just laughed. “Have I ever sang to you?” Daehyun suddenly asked.

“No…” Youngjae answered turning his head looking at the elder. “Well, I have a pretty nice singing voice.” Daehyun told him. “That’s nice…Jongup mentioned that before.” Youngjae said plainly.

Daehyun looked at him. “Are you not impressed?” He asked. “I don’t know.” Youngjae said. “I’ve never heard you sing before.” He reminded innocently. “Well then, I guess I have to sing to you. Hm?” Daehyun said. “I don’t know. Do you?” Youngjae asked playfully.

“Are you really that good?”

“Yes, I have a voice of an Angel.”

“Angel?”

“Mm hm…Angel.”

“Jinja?” “Really…” “So you’re an Angel?”

Daehyun just looked at him.

“What?”

“Seriously Youngjae?

“Stop it.”

“Stop what?”

“Stop being cute?”

“Why not Hyung?” Youngjae questioned.

Daehyun turned his back towards Youngjae. “Daehyun.” Youngjae pouted. The Prince did not respond. Youngjae crawled over, laying on top of Daehyun. “What’s wrong Daehyunnie?” “Stop it Youngjae.” But the younger wouldn’t leave him alone. Daehyun however did enjoy this attention from him. Youngjae there’s no way I would choose anyone over you, always remember that.

-

-Youngjae’s POV-

“Youngjae~…Hurry up~…” Daehyun rushed. “Stop rushing me.” I said putting on my tie. “I want to see how you look~…” He whined like a child. “Alright, Alright. I’m done.” I said getting out of the changing room. “I still don’t get why you guys have a separate room just for changing. Why not use your bathroom or something?” I remarked once I was out the room.

Daehyun just smiled at me. “I don’t really use it, I change in my own room.” He said. “What a waste.” I muttered. I will never understand royals and I don’t want to…so I guess it doesn’t really matter. “You look great.” Daehyun commented. “I have really good taste…don’t I?” He said faltering himself. “Mm.” was all I said. It really was a nice outfit, a violet button up dress shirt, with a black and white plaid long blazer, and a navy blue and navy blue pants to match. But I wasn’t going to tell him that of course.

Today was the day of the ball, everything was prepared and ready. I didn’t really have any problems with Daehyun greeting and talking with the princesses that arrived because it was what he had to do. I’m honestly just glad that it’s all almost over. I wasn’t all that excited about the ball, being around a bunch of royals and rich people…it was more like a nightmare…just thinking about it makes me shiver in disgust. But I’ll at least be able to tolerate it with Zelo and the others and Daehyun. “Ready?” Daeyhyun asked me. I just looked at him.

Suddenly there was a rumble of thunder. “I just hope Zelo’s ready.” I remarked since he doesn’t like thunderstorms at all, what so ever. “He’ll be fine, Yongguk will be with him.” Daehyun assured. “Don’t you find it strange?” I asked him. “Find what strange?” he asked. “How it was sunny and nice all this week, even this morning it was bright and warm. But now it’s thundering and dark.” I said.

“Well, it’s probably dark because it’s night.” Daehyun pointed out. I looked at him and rolled my eyes. “Seriously…there wasn’t even a sunset. The sun didn’t even go down.” I told him. Daehyun rest his hand on my shoulder. “Youngjae…I’m sure everything is going to be fine. Maybe it’s just going to be a storm. Okay? Everything is going to be okay.” He said.

All I could do was nod, if only I could believe him. I don’t know why, but…I had a very strange unsettling feeling. Everyone got ready, putting up the finishing touches.

About an hour later guest started to arrive. I peeked through the curtains of the ball room. “There’s a lot of people out there.” I remarked. “I see Bang, Zelo, Himchan, Jongup, and Jiho.” Daehyun said hovering over me as he peeked through the curtains as well. “Jiho?” I repeated.

“Oh and Ukwon and Jaehyo.” He said. “What?” I questioned closing the curtains looking at him. Daehyun smiled at me. “I invited 3 of them, and the 7 of them chose the 3 to go and the rest of us provided them with the clothing.” Daehyun explained simply. A large grin grew on my face as I gave him a hug. “We didn’t do it just for you.” He said blushing just a little bit.

“I know, but still.” I said squeezing him a little. He smiled. “And now to give a warm welcome to your hosts the Jung family!” The announcer announced. The royals lined up and walked out as they were called onto the platform. I noticed that all of the royals had an except for Daehyun. The princesses giggled at this. I guess him not having an meant that he was going to choose his princess.

Each member of the Jung family each gave a small speech to their guests. I didn’t pay attention to anything that they said. It was a bunch of garbage anyway. The only person’s that I listened to was Daehyun, the youngest member of the Jung family. “Hello everyone, I am Jung Daehyun your prince for the evening.” He introduced making all of the girls squeal. I rolled my eyes.

“Thank you all for attending our annual royal ball. It’s a pleasure seeing you come every year and enjoy one another’s company.” He went on. “And it’s wonderful seeing new faces out there, I hope all of you have a good time and a wonderful night.” And with that he was finished. “Wait…Daehyun, sweetheart, aren’t you going to tell the lovely young ladies out there about tonight’s ball in particular, and how will choose your princess.” The Queen mentioned publicly. Of course mother.” Daehyun smiled.

“This is my 18^th year and I should be seeking the one who I want to be with. All of you are wonderful, beautiful young ladies. I’ve spoken with you and have truly enjoyed your company. So the one I choose tonight, is who I want to be with forever. So please….understand. Prince Daehyun spoke. His parents looked satisfied and gave me a quick glance.

After their speches w were finally free to chat and mingle. I was excited to get to Jiho, Ukwon, and Jaehyo. “How are you holding up?” I asked as soon as I caught up with them. “It’s really strange and…uncomfortable.” Jiho remarked. I nodded in agreement. “It’s uh…different Ukwon inputted. “I think it’s quite nice.” Jaehyo said. The other 2 rolled your eyes. “You’re only saying that because 2 girls so far thought you were a prince.” Jiho remarked. I couldn’t help but laugh at this a little. “Have you talked to anyone?” I asked.

“Yeah…Himchan’s parents are really nice.” Ukwon answered. “And Jongup’s dad is just like Jongup.” Jiho laughed. “Yongguk’s parents are pretty cool too. He has a sister and a twin brother named Yongam…it’s soo scary, they look exactly alike.” Jaehyo said. Jiho and Ukwon laughed at the elder. “You should’ve seen his face.” Ukwon said.

“I’m glad you guys are here. I said sincerely. Jiho rest his arm on my shoulder. “Of course. We do everything together.” He gave me a friendly smile. Just then a crack of thunder boomed in the ballroom, causing Jaehyo to jump. The 3 of us bursted into lughter. Jaehyo held his chest catching his breath.

“Oh my gosh…” He said still in shock. “What’s wrong Jaehyo? Scared of a little thunder?” Ukwon teased while still laughing. “That wasn’t a little thunder.” Jaehyo argued. The other two ignored his argument and continued to make fun of him. I looked around the area, something wasn’t right.

“Hey Jae.” Jongup greeted as the rest came over to us. “Hey.” I returned the greeting. I noticed Zelo looked a bit uneasy as well, I wasn’t sure if it was because of the thunder or if he felt that something wasn’t right either. At that moment someone tapped me on the shoulder.

I turned around just to be greeted by 3 girls who must’ve been princesses, judging by their attire. “Are you Yoo Youngjae?” The Princess in the middle asked. I slowly nodded. The two princesses besides her giggled. “Can we…talk to you? Alone?” The Princess in the middle asked.

Jiho and Zelo looked at me waiting for my response. I wanted to say no, but I couldn’t because as a “servant” I can’t refuse a guest’s request. I sighed. “Yes, you may.” I said following behind them. They walked all the way to the back of the ballroom into a corner where we couldn’t be seen.

“Um…what’s going on?” I sis breaking my courtesy. “You know exactly what’s going on.” The girl in the middle said not sounding so pleasant. “I’m just going to get to the point. I don’t like you, Yoo Youngjae.” She said. “You’re not the first.” I muttered. “I’ve been watching you this past week and it’s obvious that you feel something for Prince Daehyun.” She said. “Really? Is it that obvious?” I remarked.

“You’re not very smart for coming. But of course I wouldn’t expect more from a village peasant.” She said. I didn’t respond. “I did my research and I know a lot about you. I know that the Prince gave you an abundant amount of his favor. I know that you are a peasant. And I know that you’re very smart…but not very strong.” She smirked. This was becoming more creepy than threatening.

“Once the Prince chooses me, I’ll be sure to change all that but for now I am going to teach you lesson.” She said. She was about to snap her fingers when someone asked, “Is there a problem?”

She froze. “Pr-prince Yongguk.’ She gasped. “Yes…that’s me. Is there a problem?” Yongguk asked again. “Um…um…uh…no.” she stuttered. “Good. Now you don’t mind, I would like to take my friend back.” Yongguk said. “Of-Of course.” She smiled sweetly.

“Come on Youngjae.” Yongguk said turning me around. But then he stopped and turned back to the girl. “It’s not very polite to threaten the Prince’s Personal Servant in his own home. I thought you would have more class than that Princess Yui.” And with that he turned back around.

“You didn’t have to do that.” I said feeling completely embarrassed as we walked away. “Yes I did. You wouldn’t have been able to take what she had planned. Trust me she would’ve gotten you banished or punished for sure. Even Daehyun wouldn’t be able to save you from that.” He said. “Thank you.” I thanked.

“No problem.” He smiled ruffling my hair messing it up. “Uh…Miane.” He apologized when he realized what he had done. “It’s alright.” I said fixing my hair. There was another loud clap of thunder followed by two strikes of lightening. “What about Zelo-ah?” I asked him, noticing that he wasn’t with the maknae. “He’s with Himchan and Jiho.” Yongguk informed. “Yongguk…” I said again. “Yeah?” He responded. “You’re a good person.”

-Daehyun’s POV-

After a while I got tired of talking to the princesses. I hung out with almost all of them this week. I just wanted to be with Youngjae right now. I found it unfair. Bang gets to be with Zelo…and Himchan gets to be with Jongup, and Youngjae gets to be with his other friends.

When I thought I was finally free, my mother had to get in the way. “My son.” She smiled. “Hi mother.” I said trying hard not to sound annoyed. “Enjoying the ball?” She asked. “It’s festive.” Was my answer. She smiled. “Found anyone you like?” She asked. “Well, actually I’m about to talk to that person right now.” I said. “Oh really? I’m sorry. Well don’t let me get in your way. Go.” She encouraged. “Thanks mother.” I smiled happily walking off.

It extremely crowded, which made it difficult to find Youngjae and the others. It was honestly kind of frustrating trying to find them as soon as possible while being polite at the same time. Everyone was just getting the way. The storm had also gotten worse and worse. Maybe Youngjae was right…but what could possibly be wrong? Just then I spotted Dr.Sunhi…the look on her face wasn’t very promising.

“Daehyun.” She said coming up to me. “You look very nice Dr.Sunhi.” I complimented. “Where’s Youngjae?” She asked ignoring my compliment. “I don’t know. I’m looking for him now.” I told her. “I have to find him fast.” She spoke aloud to herself. I stopped her before she could go anywhere. Her eyes turned a bright green, throwing me completely off. “What do you plan on doing when you find him?” I asked her. She sighed. “I have to take him to the village…it’s his mother.” She informed. “I’ll help you.” I said.