Royalty Rivals [[Taekook ff]]

Chapter-36[🌺]

The evening was serene, the palace bathed in the gentle hues of twilight. Taehyung and Jungkook had retreated to their private garden, a tranquil space where the rustling leaves and the soft chirping of birds created a soothing backdrop. The garden was their sanctuary, a place where they could escape from the pressures of their royal duties and simply enjoy each other's company.

Taehyung, always one to appreciate the beauty around him, was admiring the blooming flowers. He had dressed casually in a light blue tunic that accentuated his relaxed demeanor. Jungkook, on the other hand, was seated on a bench, watching Taehyung with a mixture of amusement and affection. He had changed into comfortable clothes, his demeanor more relaxed than usual.

"Look at these flowers, Jungkook," Taehyung said, his voice filled with genuine admiration. "They're so vibrant and beautiful. I feel like they're in full bloom just for us."

Jungkook looked up from his thoughts, his gaze following Taehyung's. "They are beautiful. You always have a way of making everything seem more special."

Taehyung smiled, pleased by the compliment. "Well, it's easy when I'm surrounded by such wonderful things. And you're definitely one of those wonderful things."

Jungkook's cheeks flushed slightly, and he shifted on the bench, trying to hide his smile. "You always know how to make me blush."

Taehyung's smile widened, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "I suppose it's one of my many talents."

As they continued their stroll through the garden, Taehyung noticed a group of nobles approaching. They were led by Kai, who was smiling and engaging in lively conversation. Taehyung's eyes narrowed slightly as he observed the interaction, his mind working on a new plan.

"Jungkook, come here," Taehyung called out, beckoning Jungkook to join him by the flowerbeds.

Jungkook walked over, his curiosity piqued. "What's up?"

Taehyung gestured towards Kai and the nobles. "I was thinking it would be nice to have a little chat with them. You should join us."

Jungkook raised an eyebrow, a hint of suspicion in his eyes. "Are you sure? I mean, I'm happy to join, but it seems like you have something on your mind."

Taehyung's smile was enigmatic. "Oh, nothing much. Just a little experiment."

Jungkook's curiosity was aroused, but he followed Taehyung's lead, joining him as they approached the group. Kai greeted them warmly, his eyes lighting up when he saw Jungkook.

"Your Majesty, it's a pleasure to see you," Kai said, his tone polite but tinged with a hint of familiarity.

Jungkook offered a courteous nod. "Good evening, Kai. It's nice to see you as well."

Taehyung interjected, his voice cheerful. "Kai, I was just telling Jungkook about how lovely your recent event was. I think you did a fantastic job."

Kai's smile widened, clearly pleased by the compliment. "Thank you, Your Highness. I'm glad you enjoyed it."

Taehyung continued, his tone friendly but deliberately casual. "Jungkook and I were just discussing the possibility of attending more of your events. It's always a pleasure to see what you're up to."

Jungkook's eyes flicked between Taehyung and Kai, sensing an underlying tension. He tried to keep his expression neutral, but he couldn't help feeling a bit uneasy.

Kai, noticing Jungkook's reaction, leaned closer with a conspiratorial grin. "Well, if you're interested, I'm planning something special for the next event. I'd be honored to have you both."

Taehyung's eyes sparkled with mischief as he casually placed a hand on Jungkook's arm. "Oh, that sounds intriguing. I'm sure Jungkook will be excited to hear more."

Jungkook tried to mask his discomfort, but he could feel the heat rising in his cheeks. "I'm sure it will be a great event."

As the conversation continued, Taehyung made a point of engaging Kai in enthusiastic conversation, occasionally touching Kai's arm or laughing at his jokes. Jungkook watched from the sidelines, his feelings of unease growing as Taehyung seemed to be deliberately drawing closer to Kai.

Kai, clearly enjoying the attention, leaned in closer to Taehyung. "You know, I've always admired your sense of style, Taehyung. It's very refreshing."

Taehyung's smile was radiant as he responded. "Thank you, Kai. I've always believed that a bit of flair adds to one's presence."

Jungkook shifted uncomfortably, his gaze fixed on the interaction. He couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy as he saw Taehyung laughing and chatting animatedly with Kai.

After a while, Kai excused himself to attend to other matters, leaving Taehyung and Jungkook alone. The moment Kai was out of sight, Jungkook turned to Taehyung, his expression a mix of frustration and confusion.

"What was that all about?" Jungkook asked, trying to keep his tone calm.

Taehyung looked innocent, though there was a hint of mischief in his eyes. "What do you mean?"

Jungkook's eyes narrowed slightly. "You seemed to be enjoying Kai's company a bit too much. Was that some kind of game?"

Taehyung feigned surprise. "Game? I was just being friendly. Kai is a charming person, after all."

Jungkook's expression softened slightly, though his jealousy was still apparent. "It's just... I couldn't help but feel like you were trying to make me jealous."

Taehyung's smile was warm and reassuring. "Oh, Jungkook, I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable. I just wanted to see how you'd react."

Jungkook's frustration began to dissipate, replaced by a sense of relief. "Well, it worked. I felt pretty jealous."

Taehyung reached out and gently took Jungkook's hand. "I'm sorry if I made you feel that way. I just wanted to see if you cared."

Jungkook's gaze softened, his jealousy giving way to affection. "Of course I care. You're important to me."

Taehyung's smile was tender as he squeezed Jungkook's hand. "And you're important to me too. I guess I just needed to remind you of that."

Jungkook pulled Taehyung into a warm embrace, his arms wrapping around him in a reassuring hug. "You don't need to play games to remind me. I know how much I mean to you."

Taehyung hugged him back, his voice soft and sincere. "I know. Sometimes I just like to see you react."

They held each other close for a moment, savoring the warmth of their connection. The playful teasing had brought them closer, and they both felt a renewed sense of intimacy.

As they eventually pulled away, Taehyung looked into Jungkook's eyes with a gentle smile. "I hope you're not too upset with me."

Jungkook shook his head, his smile returning. "No, not at all. I just need to remember that you have a playful side."

Taehyung's eyes sparkled with affection. "And I'll always find new ways to remind you."

With that, they resumed their stroll through the garden, their conversation light and easy. The playful teasing had served its purpose, strengthening their bond and adding a touch of excitement to their relationship. As they walked hand in hand, the evening's calmness wrapped around them, and they both felt content in each other's presence.

The palace gardens, once again, became their peaceful sanctuary, where moments of playfulness and affection blended seamlessly. The gentle evening breeze rustled the leaves, and the soft glow of the setting sun painted the world in warm, golden hues. In each other's company, Taehyung and Jungkook found joy and comfort, knowing that their connection was unshakeable and their future together bright.