황실의 사랑 이야기 (Hwangsil-ui Sarang Iyagi) - The Imperial Love Story

Chapter - 45

[I'm sorry for making Hongjoong like this, guys. Plese don't come after me🙏🏼🙏🏼]

The discussions progressed, with Minho and Yongbok outlining their kingdom's proposals and trying to establish terms that would appease the southeast kingdom. However, Hyunjin found it increasingly difficult to focus. Hongjoong's piercing gaze remained fixed on him, and the prince's subtle comments made his skin crawl.

"Isn't it fascinating how negotiations can bring people together?" Hongjoong remarked casually, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Perhaps we should celebrate our newfound alliance over dinner tonight. Just the three of us—Yongbok, Hyunjin, and myself. What do you say?"

Yongbok's jaw tightened, and he shot Hyunjin a concerned glance. "We're here to negotiate, not to socialize, Hongjoong."

"Ah, but negotiation is so much more enjoyable with good company," Hongjoong replied, unfazed. "And I promise, Hyunjin will enjoy himself. Right, Hyunjin?"

Feeling trapped under Hongjoong's scrutiny, Hyunjin forced a smile. "I—I'm sure it will be fine," he replied, hoping to diffuse the situation. The prince's interest felt suffocating, and he didn't want to appear disrespectful.

"Excellent!" Hongjoong declared, a satisfied grin spreading across his face. "I'll have the finest food prepared for our special evening. You won't regret it, Hyunjin."

As the meeting wore on, Hyunjin could sense the underlying tension between Yongbok and Hongjoong. The prince's flirtatious remarks continued, each one a subtle reminder of the precarious position they were in. Hyunjin tried to ignore the flutter of anxiety in his stomach, focusing instead on the discussions.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the negotiations reached a standstill. "We need to think this through," Minho said, glancing between his brother and Hongjoong. "We can't make hasty decisions that may put our people at risk."

"Risk? Or opportunity?" Hongjoong interjected, his voice smooth and persuasive. "This alliance could bring prosperity to both our kingdoms. But I can't help but think that it would be even sweeter with someone like Hyunjin at my side."

Hyunjin felt his cheeks flush at the implication. "I'm not a bargaining chip, Your Highness," he said firmly, trying to assert himself despite the anxiety gnawing at him. "I serve my prince, and my loyalty lies with him."

Hongjoong merely chuckled, unfazed. "Of course, Hyunjin. But everyone has a price. I wonder what yours is." His gaze was intense, leaving Hyunjin feeling vulnerable under the weight of it.

"Let's leave it at that," Minho said, stepping in again. "We'll consider your offer, but for now, we need to regroup and discuss our strategy."

As they left the hall, Hyunjin could still feel Hongjoong's eyes on him, the lingering sense of discomfort gnawing at him. Yongbok walked beside him, concern etched on his face. "Are you okay?" he asked quietly.

"I... I don't like the way he looks at me," Hyunjin admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "It feels wrong." 

Yongbok nodded, determination hardening in his gaze. "I won't let him use you as a pawn. We'll figure this out together."

The lavish banquet hall was filled with the rich aromas of food and the sounds of laughter and clinking glasses. As they sat around the long table, Yongbok and Minho exchanged wary glances, both on high alert. Hyunjin sat between them, trying to enjoy the meal, but the oppressive atmosphere weighed heavily on him.

Hongjoong, seated across from Hyunjin, had been more charming than ever, showering Hyunjin with compliments that only made him more uncomfortable. He watched as Hongjoong's eyes sparkled mischievously, a hint of something darker hidden behind that charming smile.

"Hyunjin, you must try this wine," Hongjoong said, pouring a generous amount into Hyunjin's goblet. "It's a special blend from my kingdom. I guarantee it's unlike anything you've ever tasted."

"Thanks, but I'm fine with what I have," Hyunjin replied, instinctively pushing the goblet away, but Hongjoong's hand gently pressed it back toward him.

"Just one sip, for me?" Hongjoong insisted, his voice silky smooth. "I want to know what you think."

Reluctantly, Hyunjin raised the goblet to his lips, taking a small sip, unaware of the substances Hongjoong had added to the drink. Almost immediately, a warmth spread through him, dulling his senses and clouding his thoughts. The room began to spin, and he struggled to focus on the conversations around him.

As the dinner continued, Hyunjin felt increasingly light-headed, his vision blurring at the edges. His body felt heavy, and he had trouble keeping his eyes open. He glanced at Yongbok, who was deep in discussion with Minho, clearly unaware of his discomfort.

"Hey, Hyunjin," Hongjoong said softly, leaning in closer, his breath warm against Hyunjin's ear. "Why don't we get some fresh air? I'd love to show you the view from the balcony."

Hyunjin blinked slowly, feeling dizzy. "I—I don't know..." he stammered, but before he could protest, Hongjoong took his hand and gently pulled him up from the table. "Just a moment, I promise."

Yongbok noticed something was off the moment he saw Hyunjin's dazed expression. "Hyunjin!" he called, pushing his chair back and standing up. "Where are you going?"

"Just outside for a moment," Hongjoong replied, his tone casual, yet the way he held Hyunjin's hand was anything but innocent.

"Wait," Yongbok insisted, striding toward them. "Let go of him, Hongjoong."

"Why? He's just getting some air," Hongjoong replied, a smirk playing on his lips as he continued to pull Hyunjin along.

Yongbok's heart raced as he followed them out to the balcony. The moment he stepped outside, he felt a surge of protectiveness. Hyunjin leaned against the railing, swaying slightly as Hongjoong stood too close, his hand resting on Hyunjin's shoulder, fingers brushing down his arm.

"Keep your hands off him!" Yongbok shouted, anger igniting in him. He stepped forward, pushing Hongjoong back. "What are you doing?"

"Calm down, prince," Hongjoong said, feigning innocence. "I was merely getting to know Hyunjin better. He's quite lovely, isn't he?"

Hyunjin felt trapped, his heart racing as he tried to process the situation. His head spun, and he could barely string together a coherent thought. "I—I should go back," he stammered, attempting to step away from Hongjoong.

"Not so fast," Hongjoong said, grabbing Hyunjin's wrist and pulling him closer. "If you give Hyunjin to me, I'll reward your kingdom with wealth beyond your dreams. It's a fair trade."

Yongbok's expression darkened. "You think I would ever play dirty like that? Hyunjin is not a bargaining chip."

"Then we're at an impasse," Hongjoong replied, his smile turning sinister. "If I can't have Hyunjin, then no one can. I won't allow you to have him."

The atmosphere shifted, tension crackling like electricity between them. Hyunjin could see the intensity in Yongbok's eyes, the determination to protect him shining through.

"Consider this your warning," Hongjoong continued, stepping back, but his gaze remained locked on Hyunjin. "If you refuse my offer, there will be no more negotiations. It will mean war."

With that, Hongjoong turned on his heel and walked back inside, leaving Hyunjin and Yongbok alone on the balcony. Hyunjin felt a chill run down his spine as the implications of Hongjoong's words sank in.

"Hyunjin," Yongbok said, turning to face him, concern etched on his features. "Are you alright? Did he hurt you?"

Hyunjin shook his head, still reeling from the encounter and the dizzying effects of the drink. "I'm fine... I just feel a bit strange."

Yongbok's brows knitted together, and he placed a hand on Hyunjin's forehead. "You're warm. We need to get you back inside. I won't let him near you again."

As they made their way back, Hyunjin couldn't shake the feeling of Hongjoong's lingering gaze and the threat that now hung over them. Whatever happened next, he knew that things had just escalated dangerously.