The King's Arrangement (BTS X Reader)

Chapter 17

A/N: TRIPLE UPDATE! Please read Chapters 15 and 16 first.

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As I escorted the princess to the library, my mind went back to the events at breakfast. When she took Soobin's arm, my heart had shattered. She had turned to look at me, her eyes sad. When I smiled at her, her facial expression had changed immediately. Could it be that the princess had feelings for me?

She had look distraught when she came rushing in from the garden, but her mood changed in my company. I was so confused with what was happening and I didn't know who to ask. We arrived at the door to the library and I gently pushed it open, gesturing for the princess to precede. She gave me a beautiful smile and stepped into the room, releasing my arm in the process. I wanted to protest but kept my mouth shut.

There were two books on the table next to the chair she usually chose and I smiled when I noticed the book I had recommended to her. "Are you enjoying the book princess?" I asked, gesturing towards the table.

The princess, who had sat down in the chair, turned to me, her eyes bright. "Oh yes. It is most enjoyable and a bit romantic," she gushed, a pretty blush covering her cheeks. "I was quite surprised that this would be something you would be interested in."

"Oh? Didn't think I would be the romantic type?" I questioned, raising an eyebrow. "I guess there is much you do not know about me." I smirked as her cheeks flushed even further. I did enjoy teasing her and making her face turn those becoming colors.

The princess looked down at her lap, twisting her fingers together. "You're correct. I don't know you very well," she mumbled. "But I would like to."

My heart felt like it was going to burst out of my chest, but I kept a straight face. "What would you like to know princess?" I asked. "I am an open book."

"Do you have a significant other?" she asked, her eyes filled with curiosity.

I was shocked at the bold question. "You're really not starting with the easy ones, are you?" I asked, not able to hide my surprise.

The princess directed her gaze away from me and down at her lap again. "I apologize. That question was most inappropriate."

I hesitated then gently placed my fingers under her chin, forcing her to look at me. "Please don't apologize. However, the answer to your question is no. I am not a taken man but there is someone who has captured my interest. She just doesn't know it yet," I admitted. I didn't miss the quick flash of disappointment that crossed her features.

"Um... oh," the princess stammered. "Why have you not revealed your feelings?"

I sighed then ran a hand through my hair. "Never the right time," I replied, unable to keep the sadness from my voice. "It has never been the right time." Everything I was telling her was true. I had so many times wanted to tell her how I felt, but it was never the right time.

"Do... do you love her?" the princess asked.

I nodded my head. "I do. I love her very much. More than anything else in this world," I declared, my voice full of conviction.

The princess looked down and this time the despair in her eyes was not easily masked. Could it be? Could the thought of me being in love really affect her this much? Oh how I wished I could tell her that she was the one I loved. The one I wanted more than anything.

Emira:

I came into the library with the tea trolley and noticed Y/N seated in a chair, her admirer standing just steps away from her. He moved away from her and gave me a wink. I knew how deep his feelings for her were and felt so sad for him.