Crimson Crown

⌠47⌡

Jinyoung winced as he took a seat on the cushioned chair in his large private bathroom. The off-white tiles that mimicked gold and the sunlight that shone through the large windows bounced off the pair's skin, adding an ethereal glow. Jackson was the one to help him to the bathroom, as mobilizing was still quite painful for the prince to bear.

"Thank you for assisting me." He grumbled as he clutched his side, leaning back to take a moment's breath.

Jackson stood straight, remaining beside him.

Jinyoung's 'thank you' was a silent signal that he could leave, but apparently, the vampire didn't pick up on the hint, as he quietly stayed put just standing there.

"...You may go now..." He mumbled, his eyes flashing at the door just behind him.

"You can barely move without whimpering in pain. I can't leave you alone." Jackson replied.

Jinyoung scoffed, shaking his head. "You most surely can. I am a grown man, after all."

"A man with a wound that should have killed him, I remind you."

"I have the pain as a constant reminder, thank you."

"Exactly why I'm here to help you." Jackson stepped closer, reaching for the prince's light robe. "Now lift your arms, if you can without too much effort."

Jinyoung flinched away from the vampire's fingers that tugged at the fabric. He stared in shock, self-consciously covering himself. "Y-You will not undress me!"

"How else will you get in the tub?" The latter asked confusedly.

"I-..."

The prince faltered. His eyes fell to his lap.

"I've seen it once before." Jackson reminded as he reached out again for the robe. He ran his fingers along Jinyoung's skin, gently sliding the fabric off his otherwise bare shoulder. "And I cannot say I disliked the view..."

A violent shudder coursed through the prince's body as he shrugged away from Jackson's touch in a panic. He could feel his cheeks flaming while his heart skipped multiple beats.

"I can undress myself! I-If you won't leave then shield your eyes! No peeking until I say! A-And turn around, just to be sure!" He squealed, full of embarrassment.

Jackson let out a long sigh, rolling his eyes at the dramatics.

"Fine." He heeded, turning his back and closing his eyes.

Jinyoung hesitantly glanced at him, ensuring that he was respecting his request. He then tugged at his robe, his skin prickling with goosebumps as air briefly chilled him. He quickly dropped the garment to the floor, then winced as he stood in order to get into the basin.

He hobbled over to the large basin of heated water and bubbles that smelled of the lilac petals and medicinal herbs sprinkled in it. He kept his eyes on Jackson as he entered the tub, whimpering when he lifted his leg and pain shot through his side.

"You all right?" Jackson instinctively turned, eyes still closed, but senses heightened in case he needed to help.

"I'm f-fine!" Jinyoung quickly exclaimed. He hurriedly settled himself in the heated water, ensuring that there were enough bubbles and petals to cover his body. He leaned back, quite enjoying the way the warmth engulfed him and soothed his aches and pains. "I'm in the bath... you can look."

Jackson turned, his eyes opening. He gazed at Jinyoung for just a moment, then approached. he grabbed a large wooden bucket beside the basin which held some rags, handing them off to the prince, and turning the bucket over to use as a seat.