The Mafia And His Prince (Hyunchan)

5. Shattered Reflection

✧༺✬༻✧

The dawn broke softly over the horizon, casting a golden glow across the lavish estate of the King. Yet, within the opulent walls, the beauty of the new day felt like a cruel reminder of the darkness lurking beneath. Hyunjin lay in his bed, staring at the ceiling, the events of the previous night echoing in his mind like a haunting melody.

He had shared a moment of raw intimacy with Bangchan, one that had filled the emptiness inside him with warmth and affection before coming back to the place where he belonged. But as the sun's rays filtered through the heavy curtains, a chill settled over him, and the weight of reality pressed down on his chest.

Hyunjin's heart ached as he recalled Bangchan's fierce gaze and the way he had held him, as if he were the most precious thing in the world. But that moment had been fleeting, and the harsh truth loomed large. Their worlds were at war, and the love they had forged was bound to be tested by the very forces that had brought them together.

With a heavy sigh, Hyunjin pushed himself up from the bed, the silk sheets sliding off his body like whispered regrets. He dressed in silence, his movements mechanical as he donned the heavy fabric of a royal robe. The garments felt like a shroud, suffocating him in their expectations. He was a prince, destined to uphold a legacy written in blood and betrayal.

As he descended the grand staircase, the echoes of laughter and conversation drifted through the halls. Servants scurried about, their faces a mask of feigned joy, but Hyunjin saw the truth behind their eyes-fear, loyalty, and the knowledge that the weight of their lives rested on the shoulders of their king.

He entered the dining hall, where the King sat at the head of the long table, his demeanor as imposing as ever. Hyunjin's heart sank as he noticed the sharp lines of tension etched on his father's face. The King's cold gaze met Hyunjin's, and for a fleeting moment, the mask of authority slipped, revealing a glimpse of vulnerability.

"Hyunjin," the King began, his voice a low rumble, echoing off the marble walls. "We have matters to discuss."

Hyunjin nodded, the weight of his father's expectations pressing down on him like a vice. "Yes, Father. I know we need to prepare for-"

"The attack from Bangchan," the King interrupted, his voice slicing through the air like a knife. "We must be ready to crush him and his filthy mafia."

Hyunjin felt his stomach twist at the words. Bangchan was not just an enemy; he was the one person who had made him feel alive, who had pulled him from the depths of despair. "He's not like his father," Hyunjin protested, his voice trembling with emotion. "He wants to end this bloodshed."

The King's expression darkened, and he leaned forward, eyes blazing with anger. "You dare question me? He is the enemy, and enemies must be dealt with decisively. You need to choose a side, Hyunjin."

"I can't choose a side when it means losing Bangchan!" Hyunjin shouted, the words spilling from his lips before he could contain them. The room fell silent, and the weight of his defiance hung heavy in the air.

The King's face twisted in disbelief. "You're siding with a murderer? A criminal? You will regret this foolishness."