𝐑𝐄𝐖𝐑𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐃𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐘 • 𝐁𝐋

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟕

𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗘𝗻𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀

After a week of navigating the challenges of Academy life, Y/N found his connection with Alaric and Damien growing stronger. However, a subtle tension continued to linger between Alaric and Theo.

Amidst these dynamics, an unusual concern emerged for Y/N – the meter that gauged Alaric and Theo's relationship displayed an unsettling glitch, showing only the word "ERROR." This unexpected anomaly left Y/N uncertain about whether he should be troubled by it or not.

Fortunately, Y/N's path at the academy remained clear of encounters with Alaric and Kalix.

One splendid morning, The rhythm of relentless knocks roused Damien from his slumber. He answered the door, greeted by the sight of Theo and Alaric, their smiles faltering upon seeing him. Damien simply sighed, his weariness evident in his expression.

"Y/N has yet to awaken," he informed them.

"Cease addressing him as 'Y/N.' You're but a valet; extend the respect befitting his status as a young master," Theo responded, smoothly entering the room as he brushed past Damien.

"Y/N has expressed a preference for me to use his name, as formalities make him uncomfortable. I am merely adhering to his wishes," Damien explained with courtesy, asserting his position in a subtle manner. Theo, however, remained unyielding.

"Why have the two of you come here? Y/N is still asleep. It would be best to let him rest," Damien implored.

"I intend to accompany my Bunny to class today, considering our shared schedule. As for these gentlemen, I'm uncertain of his purpose," Alaric remarked, disdain lacing his words as he shot a pointed glare at Theo, who returned it with equal intensity.

"Let's cease this 'my bunny' act, Your Highness. I have no desire to entertain rumors of a romantic involvement between Y/N and the royalty. Such speculations would only burden Y/N needlessly, wouldn't they?" Theo replied, his sarcasm barely concealed. His boldness extended even to addressing a member of the royal family.

"Fret not, Theodore. Should any such rumors arise concerning Y/N, I shall protect him. After all, I do carry the mantle of royalty," Alaric retorted, his tone dripping with irony.

"Valet, indicate the location of Bunny's quarters," Alaric ordered, casting an appraising gaze around the room.

"The room to the left," Damien answered, his patience wearing thin as the two intruded.

The pair entered Y/N's chamber with practiced grace.

Y/N lay upon the bed, a figure cocooned within the covers. His brows knit in mild discomfort, perhaps a response to lingering pain from a recent wound, lending his features an air of unease.

The room was bathed in the soft glow of morning light, casting a warm and inviting ambiance. The gentle rustling of Y/N's sleep-induced movements created a symphony of comfort, a sight both endearing and heartwarming.

Theo's usually composed demeanor wavered as he watched Y/N's slow emergence from slumber. A faint smile tugged at the corners of his lips, mirroring the delicate tranquility that enshrouded Y/N. Seeing the energetic whirlwind reduced to a drowsy, tousled figure was like witnessing a rare, secret moment.

"Y/N, rise and shine. The day awaits," Theo encouraged in a voice so tender, it could have been a whisper of a breeze. He extended a hand, his fingers hovering just above Y/N's tousled hair, as if contemplating whether to touch.

In the background, Damien subtly entered the room, watchful for any suspicious activities involving his young master.

Meanwhile, Alaric's typically composed expression was replaced by a hint of bewilderment. The sight of Y/N, tousled hair and half-asleep, stirred something within him. His gaze softened, and for a moment, the weight of his princely responsibilities seemed to fade into the background, leaving only a simple desire to cherish this unguarded moment.