My Prince | sunwon

5

Naeun found Jungwon again later in the evening after confirming when the changing of the guards occurred. "Oh Prince Jungwon," she cooed teasingly. "Might you take me on an evening stroll?"

"I know what you're doing," he grumbled lightly but presented his elbow anyway. Naeun smiled innocently before glancing over her shoulder to the guard on watch.

"I have no idea what you're talking about. Can't I simply want to spend some time with you?" She smirked playfully and then glanced over her shoulder to where Sunoo trailed behind. "I believe there is a gathering tonight, celebratory drinks around the central fire. Is that correct?"

Jungwon hummed. "It is, though I am not sure if I will attend."

"Surely you must," Naeun stated. "You have so many guests vying for your attention."

"We'll see."

"Guard Kim." Another man called. "I am to relieve you tonight."

Sunoo gave a small smile, thankful to no longer be present as Jungwon continued to entertain the princess of Mount Lirameth. "Thank you, I shall take my leave then."

Just as he turned to escape the painful grip of being ignored, he heard his name called out by a voice which was distinctly female. He turned back towards the pair, confusion puling his face together. "It is Sunoo, yes?"

"Yes, Your Highness," he confirmed with a small bow. He had no desire to be called back to the uncomfortable environment.

The princess lit up with her eyes sparkling, and attractive mouth spread into a mirthful grin. "Would you like to escort me to the fire gathering for drinks? Seeing how your prince seems resistant to such events."

Sunoo's heart stuttered at the words 'your prince', the phrase reminding him of all the times he'd referred to Jungwon as such as they grew up. He missed the way Jungwon's nose would wrinkle in annoyance but would eventually break into laughter. Sunoo turned his gaze towards Jungwon who stood to the side, his demeanor difficult to read. His eyes were locked on Naeun, but they lacked the fondness Sunoo had seen in them all day.

The guard gave another small bow and an apologetic smile, "I do not believe my king," he paused to turn his eyes to Jungwon, "or my prince, would approve of such fraternization." He did not miss the way Jungwon's eyes widened as they fell upon Sunoo at the utterance of 'my prince.' But then Jungwon's eyes narrowed at the word 'fraternization.'

Sunoo couldn't help the way he looked again in Jungwon's direction and continued, "It would be inappropriate."

Naeun took a few steps closer and bit her lip against a coy smile, "Not even one glass of wine? I doubt anyone would even notice us."

Jungwon stepped forward and placed his hand to the small of Naeun's back. "He's likely right, many would see it as inappropriate."

Sunoo's throat tightened, and stomach dropped at the words, which made it clear how Jungwon viewed the separation of class and status. No, of course, it wouldn't be appropriate. Sunoo wasn't worthy of such social interaction with those who so blatantly outranked him. He gave a short nod and gulped, "Prince Yang is right. My apologies Princess Choi, but I feel it is best for me to sit this out."

Jungwon's own stomach dropped. Something didn't sit quite right with him at the thought of Sunoo foregoing the celebratory fire; though he knew it was his comment that pushed Sunoo to decline. "Sunoo," Jungwon's heart quickened as the name fell from his lips, "I feel that a visit and a cup of wine would be alright." He cleared his throat a bit, "You know, as a guest of Princess Choi and me." The add-on tasted sour on his tongue.