A Crowned Heart

{8}

The warmth of the sun began to fade as twilight descended upon the garden, casting long shadows on the cobblestone paths. Y/N and Taehyung had been enjoying each other's company, their playful banter and flirtation filling the air with a light, almost magical energy. The tension between them was palpable, each moment thick with unspoken words and the promise of something more.

Y/N found herself lost in Taehyung's deep brown eyes, feeling a connection that she hadn't felt with anyone else. She was beginning to forget the world outside of this garden—forgetting the responsibilities, the titles, and most of all, forgetting about Davin.

As if on cue, a voice cut through the tranquility, sharp and authoritative.

"Y/N!"

Y/N's heart sank, recognizing the voice immediately. She turned her head, her gaze falling on Davin, who was standing at the entrance of the garden. His expression was a mixture of irritation and suspicion, his dark eyes narrowing as they darted between her and Taehyung.

"Davin," Y/N greeted, her voice carefully controlled. "I didn't expect to see you here."

Davin walked towards them with purpose, his presence casting a shadow over the lighthearted atmosphere Y/N and Taehyung had created. "I'm sure you didn't," he replied, his tone cool. "It seems I've interrupted something... private."

Y/N straightened, trying to maintain her composure. "Lieutenant Kim and I were just discussing some matters," she said, her voice even.

"Matters?" Davin echoed, raising an eyebrow. "I'm sure those matters weren't part of your royal duties."

Before Y/N could respond, Taehyung stepped forward, his expression calm but with an underlying tension. "Your Highness," he addressed Davin, bowing slightly out of respect, though there was a hint of defiance in his eyes. "We were simply enjoying a pleasant conversation. Nothing more."

Davin's gaze hardened, and he took a step closer to Taehyung, his voice dropping to a low, menacing tone. "I'm sure you understand, Lieutenant, that Y/N is not just anyone. She has obligations, responsibilities that require her attention. Frivolous conversations with soldiers are hardly a priority."

Taehyung held his ground, his eyes locked with Davin's. "With all due respect, Your Highness, Y/N deserves a moment of respite from her obligations. She's more than just her title."

Davin's eyes flickered with anger, but he kept his composure. "And what exactly are you implying, Lieutenant?"

"I'm not implying anything," Taehyung replied, his voice steady. "I'm simply stating that Y/N should be allowed to enjoy her time, just like anyone else."

Y/N felt the tension between the two men rise, the air thick with unspoken challenges. She knew she had to intervene before things escalated further. "Davin, it's okay," she said, stepping closer to him. "Lieutenant Kim and I were just talking. There's no need for any hostility."

Davin looked at her, his expression softening slightly, though the irritation was still evident. "Y/N, I'm only concerned for your well-being," he said, his tone more controlled. "You know how people can talk. It wouldn't be appropriate for you to be seen alone with a soldier."

Y/N sighed, feeling the weight of her reality crash back down on her. "I understand," she replied quietly. "But Taehyung has been nothing but respectful. There's no need to worry."

Davin's gaze shifted back to Taehyung, a flicker of doubt in his eyes. "I hope for your sake, Lieutenant, that this remains the case."

Taehyung nodded, though there was a subtle defiance in his expression. "Of course, Your Highness."

The tension between them remained thick as Y/N felt the warmth of the moment with Taehyung dissipate, replaced by the cold reality of her situation. Davin's presence was a reminder of the world she was bound to—the world where her choices weren't entirely her own.

"Y/N," Davin said, his voice softer now, "it's getting late. You should return to the palace."

Y/N glanced at Taehyung, her heart sinking at the thought of leaving him. But she knew she had no choice. "Yes," she said quietly, her eyes lingering on Taehyung for a moment longer. "I should."

Taehyung's gaze met hers, and for a brief second, she saw the longing and frustration in his eyes—the same feelings that mirrored her own. But he simply bowed slightly, his voice calm and composed. "I wish you a good evening, Y/N."

Y/N nodded, her heart heavy as she turned to leave with Davin. As they walked away, she couldn't help but glance back over her shoulder, finding Taehyung still standing there, watching her go.

Davin noticed her glance and gently took her arm, guiding her forward. "It's for the best, Y/N," he said softly, though there was a hint of possessiveness in his tone. "You have a responsibility, and you mustn't forget that."

"I know," Y/N replied, though her heart ached with the knowledge that her life wasn't truly her own.

As they continued down the path, Davin continued to speak, but Y/N barely heard his words. Her mind was back in the garden, with Taehyung, longing for the connection they had just begun to explore. But she knew that as long as Davin was in her life, that connection would always be just out of reach.