Jungkook walked around a statue of two circling tigers to find Taehyung standing before a wall of glass panels. He reared the corner and discovered Hoseok standing not too far from him. From beyond the glass, a cobblestone pathway led to a fountain encircled by trees and other forestry but Jungkook's attention remained on the duos reflections. Even their shadows transcribed beauty.

Hoseok caught sight of Jungkook before Taehyung could. "Jungkook, a pleasure to have you back."

Taehyung swiveled around. He burst into that same bright, alluring smile Jungkook had grown accustomed to wanting for himself. Jungkook willed himself to keep quiet despite the longing in his mind to speak up about his predicament. He couldn't very well reveal anything now that he was in a state of turmoil. Even if Taehyung were willing to escape with him to some far-off land where Pledge IV was nonexistent, he didn't deserve to leave behind all that he had worked hard for. Who was he to demand Taehyung let go of the land he adored simply because of his selfish desire to belong to him. If only there were a way to make him his husband without being thrown out of the kingdom for failing to comply with civil law.

Hoseok stepped around them. An audible clack surfaced through the air as the heel of his boot moved from tapestry to marble floors. "Why don't you two join me for a meal? Afterwards, a guided tour of the castle is in place... As promised."

Taehyung hurriedly agreed. A quake of jealousy cut through Jungkook's senses. The moment faded, leaving behind a numbing guilt. What good would not being able to control his emotions be when it came time for Taehyung to choose a romantic partner? Jungkook glanced down at his torso. Taehyung's happiness would in no way ever be tied to him. He was meant for things far beyond Jungkook's capabilities.

As they ate, Jungkook wondered why Taehyung had yet to inquire about his health. His heart kept pulsating erratically. Taehyung was close and yet, nowhere near enough.

Jungkook took a bite out of his pasta. The thick sauce dribbled down his chin.

Hoseok watched him without expression. "Would you like a napkin?"

Taehyung whipped around—"Jungkook!"—and nearly toppled over into him in his haste to wipe away the sauce. Jungkook flushed red. What was Taehyung doing? To be embarrassed in such a manner in front of the Prince! What was he? A child? A beggar with no hands? At this rate, he would never be able to compete with Hoseok. Jungkook pulled the napkin away from Taehyung and as he wiped himself clean, slowly turned his head away.

Taehyung's worried expression slipped into a wounded countenance. The moment of weakness was but a flit in time; quickly swept under the scheme of today's excitement as Taehyung turned back to Hoseok.

Jungkook continued eating in silence as the other two delved deeper into their conversation about matters Jungkook wished were a part of his life history so as to be included in the endless bout of laughter and smiles. But, alas, he was nothing more than the nephew of a town drunk who had taken it upon himself to craft him into a b