The Duke & The Prince (NamJin)

Falling in Love

Seokjin was slowly getting used to life in the Duke's palace. He found comfort in the company of Hoseok, Jimin, and Taehyung, and their little ones, whom Seokjin adored. The babies brought laughter and joy to the palace, and Seokjin loved spending time with them. He also enjoyed the bravery stories of Seungcheol, who often left him in awe. The way Jeonghan would become extremely shy around the guard whenever he helped him was endearing.

His days usually began with a pleasant breakfast with everyone, a time that felt like a big family gathering. Today, however, was different. Namjoon had invited him to the library of the palace, a place known to be off-limits without Namjoon's explicit permission.

As Seokjin entered the library, he was in awe. The tall ceilings and beautifully arranged books created an atmosphere of grandeur and knowledge. Large windows provided a stunning view of the garden, and there was a cozy sitting area near the windows. Seokjin's eyes were particularly drawn to a swing hanging from the ceiling in a snug corner between the bookshelves.

Namjoon noticed Seokjin's fascination with the swing and smiled. "I used to love this seat when I was young," Namjoon said, his smile warm and genuine.

Seokjin's heart beat faster at the sight of Namjoon's rare, genuine smile. His cheeks dusted pink. "It's beautiful. This whole place is amazing," he said softly, unable to tear his eyes away from the swing.

Namjoon gestured to the swing. "Would you like to try it?"

Seokjin nodded eagerly. "Yes, please."

As Seokjin sat on the swing, he felt a wave of nostalgia wash over him. The gentle swaying reminded him of the swing in the courtyard back in Sera, a place where he had always found peace.

Namjoon joined him, sitting on a nearby chair. "This library is my sanctuary. It's where I come to think and find peace."

Seokjin looked around, taking in the beauty of the room. "I can see why. It's incredible. Thank you for sharing it with me."

Namjoon leaned back, his expression thoughtful. "I wanted to show you this place because... I want you to feel at home here. I know it's not easy, being in a new place, away from everything familiar."

Seokjin smiled, feeling a warmth spread through him. "Thank you, Namjoon. It means a lot to me."

They spent the next few hours exploring the library together, discussing books, and sharing stories. Namjoon introduced Seokjin to some of his favorite reads, and Seokjin, in turn, shared tales from Sera. The atmosphere was relaxed and intimate, and for a moment, the weight of their responsibilities seemed to lift.

Yoongi, passing by the library, noticed how much they were enjoying their time together and decided not to disturb them. He quietly ensured that no one else would interrupt their peaceful afternoon.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow through the library windows, Seokjin felt a deep sense of contentment. For the first time since arriving in Hydra, he felt truly at ease. And as he looked at Namjoon, he couldn't help but wonder if this was the beginning of something more than just an arranged marriage.

*Evening*

That evening, neither the prince nor the duke could fall asleep. A restless energy kept them both awake. After tossing and turning for what felt like hours, they each decided to take a walk to clear their minds. As if by fate, they opened their doors at the same time and came face to face with each other. The guards outside were surprised by the coincidence, and both men chuckled.

"Difficulty sleeping?" Namjoon asked with a playful smile.

Seokjin looked at him sassily and replied, "I could ask you the same."

Namjoon chuckled again. "Would you like to join me on a night walk, my duchess?"

Seokjin, ever the sassy one, responded, "Sure, dear prince."

They strolled through the quiet palace grounds, the night air cool and refreshing. The moon cast a gentle glow over the gardens, and the soft rustling of leaves added a calming rhythm to their steps. They talked about everything and nothing, sharing stories and laughing together. As the night deepened, Seokjin began to feel sleepy.

"I think we should head back inside," Namjoon suggested, noticing Seokjin's drowsy eyes.

Seokjin nodded. "Yes, I think you're right."

As Namjoon walked Seokjin to his room, Seokjin suddenly leaned in and gave Namjoon a quick kiss on the cheek before darting inside his room with a mischievous smile.

Namjoon stood there, stunned and amazed, a smile spreading across his face as he touched the spot where Seokjin had kissed him. He returned to his own room, his heart lighter, and fell asleep happily.

*Yoonminseok*

Meanwhile, in another part of the palace, Yoongi was lying in bed with Hoseok, who was asleep, and Heesung in his crib, fast asleep as well. Yoongi noticed Jimin across the room standing near the window's, trying to settle Beomgyu back to sleep.

"Jimin, what are you doing there?" Yoongi asked softly.

"Nothing, just watching the all-mighty duke falling in love," Jimin giggled as he put Beomgyu back in his crib and walked over to the bed beside Yoongi.

"It is nice to see him falling in love," Hoseok said, surprising them.

"Oh, you were awake?" Yoongi asked.

"Yep, mother's intuition, I guess. When I saw Jimin go to Gyu, I just rested," Hoseok said with a smile.

"Hmm, let's sleep. We have a long day ahead," Yoongi said, and both his husbands cuddled him, falling asleep together, content and peaceful.

Will be back soon （づ￣3￣）づ╭❤️～