Crimson Crown

⌠17⌡

"Prince Jinyoung?" Youngjae called as he noticed the prince lifelessly splayed out on his bed. "You returned home surprisingly early."

"Please, go spend time with Jaebeom. You deserve it." Jinyoung mumbled, briefly opening his eyes to flash the servant a small smile before closing them again.

"Jaebeom's gone. He has his shop to attend to." Youngjae replied. He stepped into the room, closing the door behind him. "Why have you been locked in your room all day? I had no idea you returned until now."

"It's nothing."

"You know lying to me is useless."

Jinyoung rolled onto his side facing away from Youngjae, letting out a heavy sigh. The younger walked over to the bed, perching himself beside the mopey prince.

"Jinyoung. What happened?" Youngjae insisted, gently nudging the elder's arm. "I know it's the vampire. What did he do?"

Jinyoung was quiet for a short spell before finally speaking. "Jackson. His name is Jackson."

Youngjae hummed in slight surprise. "You got a name..."

The prince flipped onto his back, now staring at the ceiling. "He won't tell me much else about him. I'm so curious, it's eating me alive, yet it took me forever just to get his name."

"You've just become familiar with him, of course he won't tell you everything you want to know up front."

"There's something he's carrying with him... I don't know what it is, but I see it in his eyes every time I visit him."

Youngjae shook his head, letting out a soft sigh. "Maybe... you're reading too much into it... I think it might be a good idea to take a break from this for now."

"I don't have time!" The prince exclaimed as he bolted upright. "If anything goes wrong, a war could break out in mere seconds. I cannot wait that long-"

"You also cannot drive yourself crazy over a lone vampire-- assuming he can even help." Youngjae retorted.

The latter scoffed, shaking his head. "You don't understand him, Youngjae. And neither do I. That's what's driving me crazy."

"You won't understand such a creature in a mere week. Give it time." The younger gently pat the prince's leg, his face filled with worry despite him being there for comfort.

Jinyoung let out another agitated, sigh, laying back down and flipping over. "I'm going to rest."

"As you wish, my prince." Youngjae mumbled. He stood up and headed for the door, glancing back before leaving. "Call for me if you need anything."