For some reason, his teacher and legal guardian, steward to the king before his untimely death, feels it’s necessary for Sehun to have some sort of companionship. Someone similar in age and male—because cavorting with young queens is frowned upon, even if he’s still considered a kitten—someone who can grow into the role of confidante and protector.

“If nothing else, Sehun, you need a friend. Someone your own age.” The nurses and teachers have gotten fed up with the bratty prince. He’s suspiciously obedient when there’s a trap waiting for an unsuspecting cat, and he always disappears when it’s sprung.

Some staff have children around his age, but they’re no fun and frankly aren’t worth the time of a pedigree.

So one pretty spring day, while Sehun is lounging on a hammock over some lovely scented flowers with the sunlight falling gently over him in dappled shapes, the steward introduces him to a young tom named Jongin.

Jongin is skinny and already tall, probably taller than Sehun, although he’s still growing, with a shy smile that nearly hides his copper eyes and black hair that turns smoky brown with dark spots in the sunlight.

A plain, common cat.

Sehun lifts his nose and flattens his ears, already deciding he doesn’t like him.

Jongin’s tail curls around his leg at the prince’s cool greeting, and Sehun’s glad.

“I know you two will get along,” the steward says, gaze hard on the prince. “Should you need anything, Jongin, just ask, and it shall be done.”

“Thank you, sir.” Jongin bows low at the waist, waiting until the older man takes his leave.

Sehun makes a point of rolling onto his side—

At least he tries, but it’s a difficult task on a free-swinging hammock, and it rocks, nearly upending him into the flowers. Jongin catches it and holds it steady. He seems to loom over the prince, trapping him in his shadow. Even without the sunlight, his eyes gleam gold with a light of their own.

“Careful, Highness.” The title holds something sweeter than poison but just as pleasant, and Sehun scowls at him, ears back.

He definitely doesn’t like Jongin. Everything about him is annoying.