There was a knock—third one in a row.

Donghyuck didn’t move.

If it were Jeno or Jisung, they would’ve barged in by now. Sungchan was with Mark. Jaemin and Chenle were studying. In other words: no one he cared to see would knock and wait.

Another knock. Softer this time.

Then a voice. His voice.

Donghyuck shot up, heart racing, but stopped just short of opening the door. One hand gripped the doorknob, the other cooled his face with cold fingers. Breathe in, breathe out. Don’t look desperate.

He opened the door.

Donghyuck: “Mark? Is something wrong?”

The prince stood there—hair a little messy, slightly out of breath, brows creased in concern. He didn’t speak, just looked at him.

Donghyuck blinked, then stepped aside, gesturing him in.

Mark: “I thought something had happened. Why didn’t you answer the door?”

Though his voice was soft, Donghyuck could hear the worry threading through it.

Donghyuck: “Sorry… I just didn’t feel like opening it. Everyone I care about is busy or the type to walk in without knocking. I didn’t expect it to be you. If I had known, I’d have answered before you could knock.”

That made Mark smile, gentle and glowing.

Mark: “I went to Jeno and Jisung’s first. They said you were here. I got worried.”

Donghyuck: “Why were you looking for me? I thought you were with Sungchan. Did something happen?”

Mark: “No, no—he’s in the design studio with Shotaro. They were getting along well, and I had free time… so I figured…” He paused, looking adorably sheepish. “I could spend it doing something else.”

Donghyuck: “And that something else… was looking for me?”
His voice was way too happy to hide it, and the wide smile on his face sealed the truth.

Mark: “It was actually my plan all along,” he admitted, brushing the back of his neck. “I wanted Sungchan to enjoy his time, and I… wanted some alone time with you.”

That statement made Donghyuck's cheeks flush pink. He looked away for a second, pretending he was totally chill.

Donghyuck: “Well then… what did you have in mind?”

Mark: “I thought maybe… we could nap? Or eat something? Or watch a movie?”

Donghyuck: “Honestly, all that sounds great. But I didn’t sleep a wink last night, so if you’re down to nap… I’m in.”

Mark: “You didn’t sleep either?”
He looked relieved—and a little embarrassed.

Donghyuck: “I’m guessing we lost sleep for the same reason. So maybe a nap will fix it.”

Mark: “You think so? Same reason, huh?” He tilted his head, eyes wide with curiosity.

Donghyuck: “I’m not gonna lie to you, Prince. I stayed up all night thinking about you… and this kingdom.”

There was a beat of silence.

Then—

Mark: “Well. I guess we really did have the same reason.”
His voice softened to a whisper.
“Would it be too bold of me to ask you to snuggle with me? Or… is that too much?”

Donghyuck: “I don’t know if it’s bold or not... but I’d really like to snuggle anyway.”

Mark: “Then it’s settled. I’ll set an alarm, and we can just… rest.”

They climbed into bed, facing each other beneath the covers. Small smiles formed. Shy glances were exchanged, neither holding eye contact too long, both a little afraid they might melt under the other's gaze.

Mark: “Donghyuck… I think you’re breathtaking.”

Donghyuck blushed instantly, red blooming across his cheeks. Mark’s proud smile only made it worse.

Donghyuck: “I think you are too, Mark…” he murmured.

Now Mark was the one blushing, the two of them grinning like fools.

A quiet moment passed.

Mark: “Can I kiss you?”

Donghyuck nodded.

Mark leaned in. Their lips met in a soft, sweet kiss that felt like home. No rush, no pressure—just the warmth of mutual affection.

Afterward, they lay together, Donghyuck resting his head on Mark’s chest, both smiling as their eyes grew heavy. The world outside faded away as they drifted off, wrapped in quiet joy and soft heartbeats.

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