The Wolf's Heart

46

The morning sun streamed through the silk curtains, casting a warm, golden glow over the royal chamber. Jungkook stirred first, the soft chirping of birds waking him from a peaceful slumber. His head rested against Taehyung’s chest, the steady rhythm of the alpha’s heartbeat grounding him.

For a moment, Jungkook didn’t move. He let himself bask in the tranquility, his mind free of the usual worries that plagued him. The warmth of Taehyung’s arms still encircled him, protective and firm, even in sleep. He tilted his head slightly, gazing up at Taehyung’s serene face. His sharp features were softened in the morning light, his usually guarded expression replaced by one of calm.

“Staring is impolite, you know,” Taehyung mumbled, his deep voice husky with sleep.

Jungkook’s cheeks flushed, and he quickly averted his gaze. “I-I wasn’t staring,” he stammered, though the pink tint to his ears betrayed him.

Taehyung chuckled, his chest rumbling beneath Jungkook. “Liar,” he teased, opening one eye to catch Jungkook’s flustered expression. “But I don’t mind if it’s you.”

Jungkook playfully pushed against Taehyung’s chest, but his laughter quickly replaced his faux annoyance. “You’re insufferable sometimes.”

“And yet, here you are,” Taehyung replied with a smug grin, pulling Jungkook closer. “So, who’s really winning?”

Jungkook rolled his eyes but couldn’t hide the small smile tugging at his lips. “Fine, you win,” he said softly, resting his head back on Taehyung’s chest. “But don’t let it get to your head, Your Highness.”

Taehyung smirked, leaning down to press a gentle kiss to Jungkook’s temple. “Too late.”

The two stayed like that for a while, tangled in each other’s arms as the morning unfolded around them. It was rare for them to have such quiet moments, free from the pressures of royal duties and court politics. Jungkook cherished it, the simplicity of being with Taehyung without any walls between them.

Eventually, Jungkook sighed and sat up, running a hand through his messy hair. “We should get up,” he said reluctantly. “The court won’t wait forever.”

Taehyung groaned dramatically, reaching out to pull Jungkook back down. “Let them wait,” he grumbled, burying his face in Jungkook’s shoulder. “For once, I just want to be selfish.”

Jungkook’s heart softened at Taehyung’s words. He placed a hand on Taehyung’s head, gently combing his fingers through his dark locks. “You’re allowed to be selfish sometimes,” he said quietly. “But we can’t ignore the world forever.”

Taehyung sighed, lifting his head to meet Jungkook’s gaze. “You’re too good for me, you know that?”

“Maybe,” Jungkook teased, a playful glint in his eyes. “But you’re stuck with me now.”

Taehyung smiled, his hand reaching up to cup Jungkook’s cheek. “And I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

With that, the two finally got out of bed, ready to face the day together.

~

The day started slowly, with servants bustling in and out of the chambers to assist the royal couple with their morning routines. Taehyung’s valet approached, bowing deeply as he handed the alpha his robes for the day—a deep navy garment embroidered with gold accents, befitting his status as king. Jungkook, on the other hand, opted for a soft lavender hanfu that shimmered subtly in the light, a crown of silver leaves adorning his hair.

Taehyung couldn't take his eyes off Jungkook as he adjusted the crown in the mirror. His omega exuded a quiet elegance, the kind that made the alpha’s chest swell with pride and a tinge of possessiveness.

“Are you staring again?” Jungkook asked without turning around, a smirk tugging at the corners of his lips.

Taehyung chuckled, stepping closer. “Can you blame me? You’re breathtaking.”

Jungkook blushed but didn’t respond, his reflection betraying the small, pleased smile he tried to suppress.

As they made their way to the dining hall for breakfast, the palace buzzed with activity. Court matters awaited them, but for now, they had a brief moment to themselves. The morning sunlight poured through the grand windows, illuminating the long table already set with a feast.

Taehyung pulled out a chair for Jungkook, earning a surprised but grateful glance from the omega. “You’re unusually attentive today,” Jungkook teased, sitting down gracefully.

“Can’t a husband take care of his wife?” Taehyung replied smoothly, taking his seat beside him.

Jungkook rolled his eyes but couldn’t hide the warmth in his gaze. “If this is a new habit, I won’t complain.”

Their quiet breakfast was interrupted by a knock at the door. A messenger entered, bowing low as he handed Taehyung a scroll. “Your Majesty, this is urgent. It concerns the northern border.”

Taehyung’s demeanor shifted instantly, his relaxed posture straightening as he unrolled the parchment. His eyes scanned the document, and his jaw tightened.

“What is it?” Jungkook asked softly, placing a hand on Taehyung’s arm.

“The northern villages are reporting strange activity again,” Taehyung said grimly. “Bandits have been targeting isolated settlements, claiming to act under the banner of Liancheng. It’s likely someone is trying to provoke another conflict.”

Jungkook’s expression hardened. “Do you think it’s related to the royal pin?”

Taehyung sighed, his fingers rubbing his temples. “It’s possible. Even though Daek Kyun is gone, his schemes might have inspired others. I’ll need to send scouts to investigate.”

Jungkook hesitated before speaking, his voice resolute. “Let me help.”

Taehyung looked at him, surprised. “Jungkook, this could be dangerous. You’ve already been through so much.”

“I know,” Jungkook said firmly. “But I’m not the same person I was before. I can handle it. Besides, this is my kingdom too. If there’s a threat to our people, I want to be part of protecting them.”

Taehyung’s gaze softened, and for a moment, he simply looked at Jungkook, admiration evident in his eyes. “You amaze me,” he said quietly.

Jungkook smiled, though his resolve didn’t waver. “Good. Now, tell me how I can help.”

Taehyung sighed, nodding reluctantly. “We’ll discuss it with the council. But for now, stay close to me. I won’t risk losing you.”

Jungkook reached out, intertwining their fingers. “You won’t. We’re in this together.”

The rest of the day was a whirlwind of preparations, but throughout it all, Jungkook stayed by Taehyung’s side. The bond between them had grown unshakable, their shared determination a beacon of strength.

As night fell, they returned to their chambers, exhausted but reassured by each other’s presence. Taehyung pulled Jungkook into his arms, resting his chin atop the omega’s head.

“Thank you,” Taehyung murmured.

“For what?” Jungkook asked, looking up at him.

“For standing by me. For being my light when everything else feels dark.”

Jungkook smiled softly, leaning into the warmth of Taehyung’s embrace. “You’re my strength too, Taehyung. Always.”