Set in Stone [Minsung]

Part 1 - Chapter 1

Sorry that I like you, I'm sorry

If liking you is wrong.

Minho has never seen someone as perfect as Han Jisung.

Today, Jisung is sitting on a table that is conveniently in Minho's line of sight, giving him the ability to admire his crush to his heart's delight. Even though the university cafeteria is packed with groggy, bleary-eyed students, Minho's attention is fully on Jisung, who is also groggy and bleary-eyed, like always, but nonetheless the most beautiful thing Minho has ever seen. Jisung's hair is fluffy and unbrushed, suggesting that he spent the entire night and early morning in the music studio, working on another heart-wrenching symphony which Minho would do anything to dance to.

"The prince's identity has not yet been revealed to the public, but it has been announced that his first appearance will be on a live broadcast of a formal ceremony to mark his engagement to the daughter of the prime minister, Park Jinyoung. Only after this marriage will the prince be allowed to ascend to the throne."

Minho is too distracted to care about what's happening around him. He's more concerned for his crush, who evidently hasn't slept properly for at least a week. He wishes he could force Jisung to prioritise his health. It hurts his heart to see how much greyer and larger his eyebags are becoming, and how Jisung seems to be nodding off every few seconds. His friends seem to be concerned, too, occasionally patting his shoulder to ask if he's all right. The tired smile they elicit from their friend is picturesque but also agonising to watch.

"The heir to the throne was originally Prince Chan, who abdicated from his position to pursue postgraduate music production studies at an unknown university. Our reporters have been unable to ask him for an interview about his reasons for abdication."

If only Minho had the strength to walk up to his crush and get to know him properly. He'd be content with just being friends. It might break his heart, but at least he'd be near Jisung.

"It is also suspected that the new heir is currently also studying at university level, although his major is also unknown. After his coronation, the king will have to assume all duties that have been left in the balance since the death of Queen Subin, which has left the monarchy unstable and reduced our country's morale and reputation. New legislation may be passed by the government to forbid further abdications without the establishment of a clear, prepared heir."

"Lee Minho!"

It's not only Minho's lack of confidence that is holding him back. He doesn't consider himself a shy, antisocial person, but it was decided from his birth that he cannot be true to his nature in public.

"Minho!"

If things were different, Minho probably would have confessed a year ago when he first saw and fell for Jisung.

"Your Majesty!"

Minho snaps out of his stupor. He frowns, his skin beginning to prickle with anger and shame.

"I told you not to call me that, Seungmin," he mutters, fixing his friend with a glare.

Seungmin and Hyunjin are sitting across from him, both wearing the same irritated, disapproving scowl. Minho knows that they've been staring at him like this ever since Minho started staring at his crush.

Hyunjin sighs. "We called your name multiple times, you lovesick idiot."

"Could you be any more obvious? You'll burn a hole through that guy," Seungmin growls, jabbing a thumb in Jisung's direction in a not-so-obvious manner.