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Prince of Light | Lee Seokmin

SUMMARY | Radiant and adored, Crown Prince Seokmin feels used by those around him. When he’s paired with someone labeled a “villainess,” he begins to see your true, kind heart—and realizes he’s not alone in feeling trapped.

PAIRINGS | Crown Prince Seokmin x Villainess/Mage!Reader

GENRE | angst, drama, fantasy, arranged marriage, smut, romance

CONTENT/WARNINGS | non-idols au, fantasy themes, fantasy religious themes, villainess trope, domestic fluff, family and political drama, family drama, swearing, assassination attempts, mentions of death, unprotected sex (wrap it up folks!), first time (virgin!reader, virgin!seokmin), kissing, oral (m. giving, f. receiving), creampies, pregnancy, poisoning attempt, happy ending haha

LENGTH | 18,363 words

NETWORKS | @k-vanity @ksmutsociety @keopihaus @cosyhomenet

TAGLIST | (join the taglist here or join my perm taglist here)

@Flora19308 @dyge @gyuguys @codeinebelle @bubbblebe @orderforyan @fancypeacepersona @tokitosun @tjjth @idubiluranghae @wooingmandy @https-seishu @ohgeezitsbreadgenie @kumacyy @alien7210 @metaphorandmoonlight @taesungx @acherry04 @tooflef @asasilentreader @ilikekpop-c @sarahlovescatz

AUTHOR’S NOTE | Finally finished this! Finally! Here's the 3rd installment to the series! Thank you @lovetaroandtaemin for beta reading this! Thank you everyone for joining me on this adventure! ❤️

Carat Kingdom: A Seventeen Series Masterlist

Seventeen Masterlist

"She's back, you know," you hear one of the noble ladies say and you glance at her.

"Back from where?" asks another.

"Where do you think? From the North. She spent years in exile," says your former friend and the ladies gasp.

You roll your eyes, having heard this a thousand times already. Exiled? To the North? How scandalous. As if you're some villain who deserves to be shunned by society. They were right in a sense, though. You've always been different and they never understood you.

Situated in a far corner of the ballroom and looking absolutely bored, you sip your wine and pretend not to hear the scandalized whispers directed at you. It's no surprise that you're the center of gossip. You always are when you attend a ball, and your presence at one of the most anticipated events of the year has already created quite the stir.

The young ladies, former friends of yours, avoid your gaze and whisper among themselves. Once upon a time, you dominated the social circles of the capital, but a fall from grace led to your exile from the elite circle. And now that you're back, you're greeted with suspicion and ridicule. You're used to it though and so you hold your head high.

"Well, I heard that..." Another lady lowers her voice, and you don't care to hear what else she has to say. You down the rest of your drink and set the glass on the table. You should've never come to the ball.

One would think that being the eldest daughter of a marquisate family would come with certain privileges and protection, but your family was always a target of political maneuvering. Life was nice and simple but when your mother passed away from an accident, everything changed in a blink of an eye. Your father remarried, to a baron's daughter no less, and at first she was sweet and kind to you and your older brother Hyunwoo, but that didn't last.

When your stepmother, Lady Ji, gave your father a son and a daughter, her priorities shifted. You and Hyunwoo became obstacles in her path to securing her son's inheritance and her daughter's marriage, so she spared no opportunity to make your lives miserable. When a political opportunity presented itself, she wasted no time in sending you and your older brother off to the North, under the pretense that you'd both be safe from the growing unrest in your father's territory. It was a lie, of course, and it was only by some miracle that you both managed to survive.

The guards that were escorting you to the North were paid to kill you, but luckily, you and your brother managed to escape them and seek refuge in the Xu Duchy. Despite the former Grand Duke Xu Liwen being a political rival of your father, he still took you two in and helped you rebuild your lives. Life in the North was no easy feat, especially with the monsters that lurked in the darkness, but with the help of the Xu Family, you both were able to settle in and start anew.

"Bored?" Hyunwoo, the most important person in your life, asks as he stands by you.

You glance at him and smile. "Very," you reply. "They're still the same people they were a few years ago."

Hyunwoo laughs. "Things haven't changed in the past ten years have they? Still as boring as they were when we left." He takes a sip of wine. "Ah, exiled."

You grin, remembering the days when you and your brother were sent to the North. "Who would have thought we'd be the only ones who survived that journey? And yet here we are, back home, in the capital and the palace," you pause and take a sip of your wine, "It's been years and ever since we thwarted stepmother's plans, our family is already trying to sell me off to a low ranking noble or a merchant."

"Stepmother is trying to use my connections with the grand duke to make her son and daughter's status in the court stronger," Hyunwoo says, a dark expression in his eyes.

You're aware of Lady Ji's schemes. Her son and daughter are both vying to marry into powerful political families and your father is more than willing to oblige her. Your stepmother wants to marry you off to a lesser noble or an old rich merchant so you won't interfere with her daughter's marriage prospects to a higher nobleman. She says you'll be lucky if someone marries you since you're no longer young. You're nearing your thirties and any nobleman would be too embarrassed to marry a woman who isn't even in her prime. You don't even care if you get married or not, but you're not going to let your stepmother decide your future for you.

"I'm so tired of this. Ten years of helping protect the northern borders and yet we're still treated like nobodies by our own family," you say as you stare at the dancers. "Do they think we'll accept this treatment forever?"

You finish your wine and put it on a passing server's tray. You notice that the ladies are looking your way, their fans hiding the bottom halves of their faces. Some have the nerve to look amused, smirking behind their fans. You see your half-sister in a corner with some ladies, eyeing you from top to bottom. You want to roll your eyes at the absurdity of everything.

You're used to the stares and the rumors. They always say that women with 'difficult' personalities are either crazy or possessed, or cursed by a demon. But what is your difficult personality anyway? Being headstrong and firm? Becoming one of Grand Duke Xu's high ranking mages? Or because you had the gall to walk around the imperial ball in such a scandalous dress?

"Let them talk," Hyunwoo smiles as he hands you a plate of food. "You don't have to care what they say about you."

You smile and take a bite of the food. "I know, but it's still annoying. And the more they mock and annoy me, the more I want to set something on fire."

"You and your arsonist ways," he laughs and clinks his glass against yours.

"I wonder who the Crown Prince will choose as his bride this year," one of the ladies whispers loudly. "Ever since the Splendor Princess, I mean Duchess Choi, left the Crown Prince at the altar for Duke Choi, he hasn't chosen any bride. I think he's scared of being left at the altar again. Imagine being left by the bride! What a shame."

"You weren't there at the wedding," another says. "The Crown Prince stepped down so that the Duke and the Duchess could get married. He even gave them his blessing."

"He's so nice, isn't he? Whoever becomes his Crown Princess will be lucky. I would marry him in a heartbeat," the first lady gushes as she looks at the Crown Prince with adoration.

Crown Prince Seokmin is standing next to his brother, King Jeonghan, as they converse with Duke Choi and his wife, Duchess Choi. He's dressed in a royal blue robe with silver accents and a silver crown adorns his head. He looks regal and handsome, and the women can't help but stare at him. You try not to roll your eyes.

"You're right. He is nice," another lady says, her eyes filled with longing. "He's so handsome and charming. I'd do anything to be his bride."

"Would you really marry the Crown Prince if you had the chance?" the second lady asks, her voice full of curiosity. "Even if he's to be betrothed to her?" She nods her head in your direction, her lips curling into a mocking grin.

"You mean the rumors are true? That he'll marry her?"

"I heard from my maid who heard from her cousin who's a handmaid at the palace, that the Crown Prince is set to marry the Marquis's eldest daughter this year. Can you imagine? The most eligible bachelor in the kingdom marrying a woman who's been exiled to the North for so long? She must have bewitched him somehow."

"Lady Heejoo must be beside herself. She must be feeling awful to hear that her eldest sister is marrying the crown prince."

The other women nod in agreement, their expressions a mix of disgust and envy.

"So there are these kinds of rumors," you shrug, feeling the stares directed your way. "Heejoo must be soooo mad that her dear sister is marrying the crown prince and becoming crown princess." You ignore them and turn to Hyunwoo. "Oh boohoo."

"It's not like the rumors are true though," Hyunwoo points out as he pops a piece of meat into his mouth. "You've never got along with the Crown Prince ever since we were young. You're still holding a grudge, huh?"

"He was the one who called me mean in front of all the other noble children," you huff.

"You were six years old," he points out. "You bit the son of Count Yoo's hand because he put worms in your shoe. You even broke his toe as you stomped on it, then ran away laughing. It's no wonder people call you a villain and a lunatic."

"But you have to admit that my personality isn't suited for being the Crown Princess of the kingdom. I'd be a terrible one," you roll your eyes.

"You would be a terrible one," Hyunwoo laughs. "But our family is one of the most powerful families after the Choi Dukedom and the Boo Marquisate. Because you and I are representatives of Grand Duke Xu, the position of Crown Princess is expected to fall on you since you're the most eligible among the ladies."

Your eyebrow twitches. "I will kill whoever decided that I should be married off to the Crown Prince." You scowl. "Should I just marry him? Just to see Heejoo cry?"

The Royal Family has a reputation for being hard to please and difficult to wed into, so for one to actually be chosen is considered a high honor and the woman the recipient of their favor must be perfect and irreproachable. Duchess Choi, second princess of the Splendor Kingdom, was originally betrothed to the Crown Prince but in the end married Duke Choi Seungcheol instead. The Crown Prince, who was gracious and selfless, did not make a big issue of it. Instead of reprimanding the duchess or demanding punishment, he stepped aside and wished her good luck. That act of benevolence made him extremely popular with the public and people hailed him as a noble prince indeed.

And so rumor circulated in the court that he will soon marry again to make up for the Duchess Choi fiasco and produce a successor to the throne. All eligible daughters have their mothers and fathers eyeing the chance of marrying them into the royal family and getting a chance to be queen one day.

Your stepmother is no different. She'll do everything in her power to secure her daughter's chances to become the crown princess. She would do anything, even force you into an engagement against your will to someone far beneath your status and worth. You and Hyunwoo are no strangers to her manipulation tactics and the two of you always manage to weasel yourselves out of any schemes she cooks up.

"Sister," a sickenly sweet voice interrupts your thoughts. Your mouth contorts into a frown. You'd recognize this voice anywhere. The honey laced venom in it tells you immediately whom it is without you even looking. Heejoo, your younger half-sister, saunters over, with her own group of so-called friends.

"Brother," another voice calls out. It's your younger half-brother, Heecheon, who stands to Heejoo's right.

Though it's been six months since you've returned to the capital, you and Hyunwoo were staying at Grand Duke Xu's palace instead of your family home. You refused to stay under the same roof as the family that left you and your oldest brother for dead and would rather stay at the ducal palace with the family that treated you like their own. They were far happier and loving than your birth family that abandoned you after your mother died. They raised you and your brother with care and love, teaching you how to stand on your own. You owe them your life, and you refuse to return home to people who betrayed you.

It doesn't stop your stepmother from sending you countless invitations or throwing tea parties for the nobility and demanding your presence just so she can set up blind dates or so called 'accidental' meetings, but you're adamant about avoiding her matchmaking schemes.

"Ah, Heecheon and Heejoo," Hyunwoo says, and you can sense the sarcasm in his voice. "It's been a while. You've both grown quite a bit since we last saw each other."

"We've missed you so much," Heejoo says with a smile, but you know that it's fake. Heejoo hates you both and never made an effort to hide her dislike for you. "You must be happy to be back in the capital. I can't imagine how harsh the North is."

You rolled your eyes. Heejoo is a great actress, you give her that.

"The North must have been so difficult for you two," Heecheon says with a sympathetic smile. "I heard that the North is home to all sorts of beasts and monsters."

"You must come home though," Heejoo latches onto your arm. "You must have been so lonely without female friends, sister. If you had friends, I'm sure you wouldn't have come to the ball in your current state." Heejoo's eyes roam your body and her brows furrow. "I can have a few dresses made for you since you're back home."

You can feel the anger bubbling up inside you and for a moment you want to say something but you hold it in. You're no longer a child and you won't allow these two to rile you up. Instead, you smile and say, "That's kind of you, sister, but I'm quite capable of buying dresses for myself."

Heecheon laughs. "Sure, sure. But we must keep up appearances, sister. You and our eldest brother wouldn't want to embarrass the family, would you? Your taste in dresses is quite… eccentric."

Eccentric, is it? You're wearing one of the capital's most famous designer's creations. Your dress is a beautiful masterpiece. The dress itself is a deep blood red, with a slit that reaches your thigh. Your shoulders are bare, save for the intricate lace that covers them, and your chest is covered with the same lace, which forms a V, leaving your neck and collarbones visible.

When you were dress shopping, everyone steered clear of this dress, deeming it too scandalous and vulgar, but you saw the beauty in it. The designer said it was a masterpiece that no one wanted to buy. He offered it for free when you inquired about it, but you paid him and even offered him the position to be your permanent designer. Needless to say, the man was moved to tears and accepted your offer without hesitation. Now, he and his wife have joined the Xu Duchy household staff and your closet is full of stunning dresses and pieces.

You look down at your attire. "Is it eccentric?"

Heejoo smiles and you know she's hiding a nasty remark. "Yes, we wouldn't want anyone to think that father and mother don't have a handle on their children, would we? You wouldn't want to give the impression that our family has fallen from grace."

Oh, you hate her. If only you can burn her into ashes right this moment.

"I daresay I prefer a more form-fitting fashion compared to the big bows and frills that you and the other young ladies favor nowadays," you gesture at her dress, which is bright orange with flowers embroidered into it.

Her puffy sleeves, which have little ribbons on them, complete the frilly look. The bows on her puffy skirt add more to her childish look and the huge ribbon on her hip and the matching bows at the top of her head, make her look more like a decoration on her dress rather than a young woman.

"This is the current style!" Heejoo looks indignant. "As if you know more about style than me. The women in the Xu Grand Duchy might find that dress attractive and edgy, but here it is just vulgar."

"Vulgar?" you ask with a smirk, then you take a sip of your wine, ignoring your step-siblings. "I'll tell my personal designer that he has done a fantastic job then."

"Ah, it looks like the Son siblings are here and being reunited. It warms my heart to see such a happy family." You glance at the speaker, and you see the Crown Prince approaching your group, dressed in his finest clothes.

Seokmin's presence is always felt wherever he goes. He is a striking man with features that could easily rival those of a god. His face is a perfect blend of sharp and soft, with high cheekbones, a straight nose, and full lips. His eyes are a deep brown, framed by thick, dark lashes. His hair is jet black and always perfectly coiffed. His body is tall and lean, with broad shoulders and a narrow waist, and he moves with a grace that is both elegant and masculine. He has a strong jawline and a faint smile that can disarm anyone. He is the picture of perfection and grace, and yet, he has a certain quality to him that makes you think he is hiding something.

"Oh, your highness! It is us who are honored," Heejoo gushes, giving her best simpering smile. Her smile is not missed by the ladies who watch her every move. You wanted to hurl.

"May the moon and stars embrace us with your light," you and Hyunwoo greeted, hand over your heart as you bowed and curtsied. Your half-siblings gave you an incredilous look at your greeting but kept their mouths shut when they noticed King Jeonghan nodding his head at you, impressed.

"I'm happy to see the Son siblings together again," he smiles. "Though you all resemble each other, your personalities are far too different. Your father must have had such a hard time raising you."

Your half-siblings stiffen at this, clearly insulted at the insinuation. You and Hyunwoo say nothing, the slight smile not leaving your face as you let the King talk.

"But what do I know?" he says, lifting his palms upward. "I haven't seen Sir Hyunwoo and Dame Y/N in quite some time."

The Son siblings were all different to say the least. Hyunwoo, the eldest Son sibling, was supposed to be the heir apparent to the marquisate but it changed when there was news that you and he had died. Hyunwoo, handsome and strong, is known as a fearsome knight in the Grand Duke's army. He is respected by all, even by those who declared him as a rival. You, the second eldest of the four, a beautiful and talented young lady, could have married a northern nobleman but instead became a mage for the Grand Duke's army upon learning that you wield magic that could rival Grand Mage Junhui and his apprentices.

After you and Hyunwoo were sent away and presumed dead, Heecheon became the heir to the marquisate. Heecheon is a handsome young man, but he lacks the strength and presence of Hyunwoo. He's charming, witty, and has many friends in high society, but he's also known for his love of parties and games of chance, which sometimes gets him into trouble. Heejoo, the youngest, is the opposite of you. She's pretty and she knows it. She's also charming, witty and has a knack for making people feel at ease, but she can also be quite manipulative and calculating. She's well aware of her beauty and how to use it to her advantage, and she's not above using her charms to get what she wants.

Seokmin smiles, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "I was told that Lord Heecheon and Lady Heejoo were going to be in attendance, but I didn't expect to see Sir Hyunwoo and Dame Y/N."

"It's been about ten years, hasn't it? We had all assumed the worst," the King Jeonghan says. "But to learn that you two were actually alive was a relief. The both of you are a sight to behold."

"Your Majesty flatters us far too much," Hyunwoo gives an amicable smile.

"Your Majesty is too generous," you chime in.

Your half-siblings don't want to be outshoned by the two of you, so they quickly come up with a retort to regain the spotlight, "His Majesty is gracious to us all," Heejoo says politely, "We should count our blessings and rejoice."

The other girls let out an "awww", cooing at her politeness and innocence, while some are filled with envy that she was able to speak to the Crown Prince. You stifle a laugh, but the amused smile doesn't leave your face. The petty, cunning side of your personality finds your sister's efforts to please the royal family hilarious, especially since Heejoo is far from innocent or polite.

"Your Majesty! Your Highness!" The rushing steps of your father and stepmother catch your attention. "We apologize for arriving late," your father continues. He quickly bows to the two royals while your stepmother curtsies behind him. She barely spares you a glance. "We sent the children ahead of us since the wheel to our carriage broke. Thankfully, everything is all set and in working order."

"Nothing to worry, Marquess Son. Your children did a great job filling in for you," King Jeonghan waves off. He smiles at Heejoo and Heecheon. "Lady Heejoo and Lord Heecheon, thank you for your greetings earlier."

The two of them bow their heads slightly, acknowledging the King and Crown Prince's comments. "Of course, Your Majesty," Heejoo speaks first, her words sweet and gentle, just as expected of a demure lady. "We're happy to be of service. It's all part of our duties as a citizen of the kingdom."

You raise an eyebrow and do your best not to laugh at her sycophantic tone. "Its the least you can do when you're not the ones defending the northern borders," you retort. The venom in your words surprises the others in your group and causes them to turn to you in shock.

"Who–" your stepmother's question dies on her lips when you turn your gaze to her, a glint in your eye as she stiffens under the intensity. "Y/N! Hyunwoo! My dear children, I haven't seen you both for the longest time! It's a shame that you're staying at the Grand Duke's palace instead of back home. You really should make more visits so I could spend more time with my children."

"We're not here for leisure, stepmother," Hyunwoo replies evenly. "We are here as representatives of the Grand Duke's palace."

Your father scowls at Hyunwoo's words but smiles apologetically to King Jeonghan. "Forgive my eldest's rudeness, Your Majesty, Your Highness."

"It's alright, sir. The past couple of years have been difficult for all of us. I understand," King Jeonghan nods. He regards your group for a moment before clearing his throat. "What is the situation at the Northern Borders, Sir Hyunwoo and Dame Y/N? I hope all is well?" he asks.

The abruptness of the question startles everyone in the group. No one is sure what the topic is or what it means, except for you, Hyunwoo, and the royal family.

Hyunwoo is about to answer, when your stepmother interjects. "Y/N would be useless in discussing anything related to the borders, Your Majesty. I'm sure my eldest daughter was raised in the Grand Duke's palace and was most likely busy with the softer ar–"

"Life was faring well up until the goblin uprising last year," you interrupted, choosing not to give her the time of day. You refuse to let her dismiss your hardwork and abilities. Not when you've done so much for the northern borders and Grand Duke's family. "But that was taken care of. With the help of the Hero Mingyu and his Diamond Mercenaries, we were able to repel the goblin assault."

"Grand Mage Junhui and the tower mages are collaborating with his grace, the Grand Duke, to come up with new defensive spells and new methods to deal with future goblin and monster assaults," Hyunwoo takes over and adds. "Everything is running smoothly for the moment, hence why my sister and I are in attendance tonight."

"I'm relieved to hear it. You have my thanks for all you have done to protect the empire," King Jeonghan compliments.

Your father is beaming with such arrogance that you wanted to wipe it off his face. "Your Majesty, thank you so much for allowing my children to serve the empire. If you could pass on a recommendation letter for Heecheon to join the–"

"Both Dame Y/N and Sir Hyunwoo possess amazing talent for magic and knighthood, Marquis. You should be proud of their success," King Jeonghan replies simply and starts moving through the ballroom. "Sir Hyunwoo and Dame Y/N, I expect a visit in the morning to further discuss our plans for the Northern Borders." With that, King Jeonghan moves on, the Crown Prince and members of his entourage trailing behind him.

The second they're out of range, Heejoo is throwing glares, while Heecheon scowls in silence, feeling inferior, embarrassed, and humiliated.

Your father's expression darkens. He turns to you and Hyunwoo with contempt, voice low enough for only the two of you to hear. "You will come to the estate after your audience with the king. We have much to discuss."

Your stepmother hums in agreement, her smile sending chills down your spine. You knew that nothing good would come of a meeting like that.

Seokmin knows not to get involved in anything that Dame Y/N does and knows to keep his nose where it belongs.

Ever since they were children, Y/N never allowed him or anyone else to dictate her behavior or make her follow any sort of rules or etiquette. She did as she pleased and made her own choices without anyone having an influence on her.

He watched her defy her teachers, her instructors, and her father on many occasions. She spoke her mind and would not stand for others trying to dictate who she would be or what she was to accomplish.

She was a mean little girl as a child, a demon spawn to everyone, except her older brother, Hyunwoo. So even when they grew older and had their own groups of friends and went their own ways, he avoided her, like everyone else.

As she grew older, she dominated the social scene. Her beauty is enchanting, and her manners are impeccable despite having such an ugly personality. She has a natural charisma, a way of drawing everyone's attention to her, and her tongue can be sharp or smooth as it suits her needs.

Yet, none of these can take away the fact that she is cold, harsh, and unforgiving.

Seokmin could understand why she lashed out like she did. At a young age, she had to learn to defend herself as she had no other options left. Her mother had passed on when they were younger, leaving her and Hyunwoo in the care of their cold and unloving father and the marquises' new family.

Life must not have been easy for the two Son siblings. Casted out from the marquisate as soon as they reach adulthood under the pretense that their family territory wasn't safe enough for the two and then ambushed by their own guards by the order of their stepmother, it's no wonder that she's resentful and angry.

And yet, she turned that resent and anger into her greatest strength and channeled it in ways no one could. From becoming a respected lady of society to rising in the ranks of magic and becoming one of the most powerful mage under the Grand Duke's order, she surprised many, especially the nobility that always took her and her brother for dead.

Seokmin supposes there is something admirable about her. Her feistiness, determination, and grit are things he respects.

"What are you thinking about?" His brother, King Jeonghan, appears by his side, snapping him out of his reverie. "Aren't you tired of watching people dance?"

"Just reminiscing of childhood days," Seokmin tells him with an easy smile. He takes another sip of his wine, keeping his eyes trained on a familiar red dress.

"Oh. Of young Y/N and Hyunwoo?" Jeonghan asked with a smile. "I'm just as awed that the demon spawn we knew her as children transformed into one of the greatest talents this country has produced."

"It must be a Son family thing then?" he quips.

Jeonghan raises his eyebrow and sighs. "Well those two didn't get their father's qualities. They must have gotten everything from the late Marchioness."

He turns to his brother, interest peaking at the mention of your late mother. "You've met her before?"

"Oh yes," Jeonghan nods. "The late Marchioness was one of the kingdom's greatest knights. She was the Knight Commander of the Rose-Quartz Knights. I would have loved the two Son siblings to join either the Serenity Knights or the Rose Quartz Knights but their father and that evil wife of his pulled strings."

Seokmin clicked his tongue. That's a real shame. He could only imagine how effective the two Son siblings could have been if they served the crown as knights. But of course, fate isn't fair and destiny doesn't work in their favor.

"I know you don't want to marry her. That she's the furthest thing in the world to be a princess," Jeonghan whispers and his eyebrows are pinched in the way it usually is when he's in deep thought. "But out of all the women here, Dame Y/N might be the best choice."

"Why is that?” Seokmin tries not to scoff, he truly tries.

Jeonghan looks at the two eldest Son siblings, both ignoring the looks on their half-siblings faces. “They hold more power than we imagine. They're Minghao's maternal cousins. We need to get the support of the northern nobles. Dame Y/N was the one who was responsible for the defense of the northern border, and is one of the many nobles and knights who keep the goblins at bay. We need ties to the Son Marquisate and their influence.”

“Then would it not make sense to marry Lady Heejoo since the marquis clearly dotes on her?” Seokmin asks.

Jeonghan glances at the group of angry siblings then at the marquise who's on the opposite side of the ballroom, obviously fuming. Jeonghan watches intently, a soft and amused smile curling on his lips. It disappears and a slight frown replaces it. "It would make the most logical sense. But Lady Heejoo won’t give you the military and financial resources we need even if she has the backing of her own father. Marrying her means dealing with a family that will bleed us dry. At least the elder two Son siblings will work for the sake of the nation because they don't care for material pleasures."

He's right of course, as the eldest and legitimate prince, Seokmin would need to take into consideration the benefit for his kingdom. It would have to benefit the crown. The biggest benefit in this would be the alliance to the Grand Duke, who controls the empire's northern defenses. And since the eldest two children of the marquis have worked their asses off to gain the trust and respect of the nobles in the north, making an alliance with them would make it a lot easier.

The idea of marriage shouldn't surprise him or cause this much dread and worry. He's radiant and adored as the Crown Prince. Yet, Seokmin feels like he's being used. He'd grown accustomed to it because everyone is blinded by his looks and rank, that no one sees the true him. That no one actually loves him for him.

Perhaps, he's looking too deeply into it and getting greedy, and it's not like him to think that way. As the future King of his land, it's his duty to take this step no matter how he truly feels. Even if there is no love in it, he just needs to look out for his people and his kingdom.

But somehow, that makes the decision that much harder.

"Are you still against it? Against marrying her?" Jeonghan asks.

"Is there a point in discussing it now?" he counters, already exhausted from this. His shoulders are slumping and his jaw clenched, unable to control the way his body reacts when he feels tired and irritated. "If your decision is final, why are we discussing it when the future of the kingdom depends on it?"

Jeonghan pauses. "I know you want to love the person you're marrying. That's how you are. But it's our duty as royals to look at the greater good." Jeonghan pats his brother's arm. "Who knows? Maybe you'll come to love each other. Maybe things will turn out better than you'd imagine."

"Our cousin just sent us a new missive," Hyunwoo announces once he meets you in his temporary quarters in the Grand Ducal palace. "He wants us to return home soon since he's tired of dealing with the tower mages on his own."

"Minghao is always whining," you retort. Your lips quirk upwards, unable to hide your amusement. "For being a Grand Duke, you'd think he could handle a few tower mages."

It's not common knowledge that you and Hyunwoo are maternal cousins to the Grand Duke. Only the northern territories and the royal family knew that your mother had a younger sister who married the former Grand Duke, Xu Liwen, and that union gave birth to his heir, the present Grand Duke Xu Minghao. You and Hyunwoo didn't know about this until the former Grand Duke rescued you and Hyunwoo 10 years ago. As soon as you were ushered into the drawing room, a woman who resembled your mother was staring at the both of you, tears in her eyes.

That day, you cried harder than when you did after your mother had passed away. This woman, your aunt, was your last link to your mother and to her family. Your aunt was kind and loving towards you and Hyunwoo, introducing the both of you to your cousin, Minghao, who looked at the two of you as a kind of second set of siblings.

Your aunt and your uncle became second parents to the two of you, guiding and molding you to become the strong people you were. They nurtured you like one of their own children despite the harshness your father and stepmother subjected on the two of you. They made it clear that they wanted nothing to do with the Marquis and his second wife, and gave everything you and Hyunwoo deserve. Your mother would have been proud of the way her sister stepped up to provide you and Hyunwoo with a family of sorts.

Even now, they are helping you, even as far away as they are. Ever since your uncle and aunt retired from their political duties as the former Grand Duke and Duchess, Minghao took over, and thus, is busy managing the North Territories while he was forced to sit through various meetings and spend his time mediating with his advisors. You and Hyunwoo vowed to help your cousin and offered to help run his duchy. With that offer, the two of you have been traveling the entire North on behalf of Minghao, commanding armies, giving orders, and getting your hands dirty. The hardships and battles did a great deal in getting you where you were, but, because of it, the three of you became much closer than any normal family would have been.

"Leave the poor man alone," Hyunwoo scolded light-heartedly, picking up the papers from the desk and handing them to you, "Reports from the magic tower."

You hummed. You shuffled through the paper, eyeing the words carefully as you read every single report, then laid them on the bed next to you. "I take it they've all agreed to the proposition for creating a new magic barrier, or are we still in the process of finalizing everything?" you asked, grabbing the glass of wine beside the pile of paper, bringing it to your lips.

"They've agreed. We only need the cooperation of the northern lords to gather all the necessary materials," Hyunwoo replies. He drops himself next to you on the bed, sighing as he rests. "As long as father and the other nobles here in the capital don't interfere, we should be fine."

"Easier said than done," you rolled your eyes and plop back down onto the mattress, lying on your stomach. "That father of ours will do anything to lift the family status, even if it means trampling on his own flesh and blood."

Hyunwoo's laugh is deep and amused. "Did you expect anything else?"

"At the very least I expected some family loyalty," you countered. You roll over to stare up at the ceiling and sigh. "But it's okay. It won't matter what they'll do. At the end of the day, the people of the northern territory are our family, not them."

A knock sounded from the doors and Hyunwoo bids to let them enter. "Apologies for disturbing your time," a familiar voice echoes in the room and you turn to see the aging butler entering the room, a smile on his kind and old face. "His Highness, the Crown Prince, is here to see the two of you."

"Ugh," you groan and drop an arm across your eyes. "Let him know that we'll be there and tell him not to dawdle. I have better things to do than talk about the weather." You wave a dismissive hand at the butler.

The butler bows and gives a knowing smile to your brother before he leaves. Hyunwoo shakes his head in amusement. "You are the only person I know who can get away with being rude to the Crown Prince."

"I'm not rude," you defended yourself. "I'm direct."

Hyunwoo snorts. "You are the rudest person in the kingdom, no matter what you say. If you weren't my little sister, I would have strangled you by now."

"That's a lie and you know it," you grin at him, and he gives a fond look back, ruffling your hair. "Don't be such a sap."

"Let's go meet with the Crown Prince. It wouldn't do to keep him waiting," Hyunwoo suggests, already making his way towards the door.

"Fine," you roll off the bed, dusting off your skirts.

You walk the halls of the Grand Ducal palace, nodding your thanks at the servants as they greet you and your brother. The servants are more than happy to welcome the two of you back, having grown fond of you during your visits.

The palace has a welcoming aura, unlike the frigid walls of your father's estate. There is life here, the servants are happy and well taken care of. The butler and head maid treat you with the utmost of respect as members of the Xu family, and they are the ones who have given you a place to call home no matter how far you are from the North.

As you approach the study, the butler is waiting and he nods, a kind smile on his face as he greets you. "His highness is already in the study with His Grace, the Grand Duke."

"Minghao is here? I thought he was still at the northern borders?" you asked.

"His Grace returned just moments ago and heard the Crown Prince was here. So he is entertaining him while waiting for you and Sir Hyunwoo," the butler explains.

"Thank you, Myungsoo," Hyunwoo nods. "Please have tea brought up, and some light snacks."

"As you wish, Sir Hyunwoo," the butler smiles and walks away.

The two of you make your way to the study and see that Minghao is laughing at something Seokmin said. The two of them are close friends and had a good relationship ever since they were children. It wasn't a surprise that the two of them would have a casual meeting like this.

"Ah, there they are," Minghao stands and welcomes you and Hyunwoo into the room. "My favorite cousins. You're finally here."

"We just got your letter," you said, walking into the room and giving him a hug. You pull back and smack his shoulder. "You should have told us that you were coming."

Minghao laughs. "And miss the looks on everyone's faces when I arrived? Of course not."

You scoff, rolling your eyes at your cousin's antics. You turned to Seokmin, nodding your head in his direction. "Your highness."

"No need for that, Y/N," Seokmin waves a dismissive hand, "I would have gone to your father as society dictates, but with the tensions between your father and the both of you, I decided against it."

"Oh, please," you rolled your eyes and walked towards the desk, pulling out a chair and sitting down, leaning back comfortably. "I'm sure my dear father would love to have you grace the halls of his estate. It's only a matter of time before he invites you for tea, or for a more intimate setting."

"Intimate setting?" Minghao asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Stepmother wants Heejoo to be married into the royal family and father wants Heecheon to join one of the knight orders," you look at the stack of papers on the desk and pick up a letter, scanning its contents.

"Ah, I see," Minghao nodded, a look of understanding appearing on his face. "I'm guessing Heejoo is the most agreeable candidate."

"Except the king doesn't want that, does he, your highness?" Hyunwoo asked, looking at the Crown Prince. "His majesty wants you to enter a marriage with Y/N, correct?"

"Unfortunately," Seokmin says, a pained expression on his face. "The kingdom is under a lot of stress. We're facing a lot of issues, and the people are starting to doubt the stability of the kingdom. A royal wedding would surely lift the spirits."

"But why me? I'm sure there are a dozen other women who would have gladly jumped at the chance to marry a prince," you raise an eyebrow.

"And you're not? You could have easily married into the highest noble houses, but you would rather be a mage than a noble lady," Seokmin points out. "You're not interested in a noble life or title."

"I'm not interested in playing house," you correct him, "I was ousted from high society when my stepmother entered the picture. I used to be the belle of society and now everyone thinks I'm a monster. What makes you think I want anything to do with it?"

Seokmin is quiet, a contemplative look on his face. Minghao steps in and asks, "What is marrying her entitled?"

"A stronger alliance between the Xu and the royal family," Seokmin answers immediately. "And to put a dent in whatever Marquis Son and his faction is plotting."

Minghao turns to look at you and Hyunwoo. He leans forward, propping his chin up on his fist. "Is there a possibility that the royal family would give aid and financial resources to the North, considering the state the northern territories are in right now?"

"You want me to marry him, don't you?" You narrowed your eyes at Minghao, a glare already forming on your face.

"It wouldn't be a bad idea," Hyunwoo muses, crossing his arms and leaning back on the seat.

"You too, Hyunwoo?" Your mouth hangs open, staring at your brother in disbelief. "Are you out of your mind?"

"If we marry you to the crown prince, then the crown would owe us," Hyunwoo reasons, turning to Seokmin. "Your highness, we need your help with the northern territories. It's a dangerous place and our people are dying because of the lack of resources and supplies. As a royal and the future king, you must be aware of the situation, correct?"

"Of course. The royal family is doing their best to help the northern territories," Seokmin says.

"And yet," you interject, "The royal family is too busy dealing with internal problems that they forget to pay attention to the needs of their people. You claim to help the northern territories and yet you haven't made any moves in the past five years."

"You're right. And we haven't done enough, and I'm truly sorry," Seokmin replies sincerely, "But also it's because your father and the other lords that we can't move. Your father, in particular, has been the biggest hurdle to helping the northern territories."

"Of course he has," you scoff. "I wouldn't expect anything less from that man."

"So," Minghao leaned forward, his elbows resting on his thighs. He clasped his hands together and looked directly at Seokmin, his eyes serious. "You can help us, right?"

"Yes," Seokmin says without missing a beat. "We'll work hard to help the northern territories. And in return, Y/N shall marry me."

"Then it's a deal," Minghao says with a smile.

You turn to your cousin. "Do you really want me to marry him that badly?"

"You'd rather stay single than marry him?" Minghao asks.

"Yes," you answered. "Why not?"

"Are you still holding a grudge against him for being mean to you when you were children?" Hyunwoo asks.

"He called me a meanie," you softly pout, crossing your arms across your chest.

"You are a meanie," Hyunwoo counters.

"You're supposed to be on my side, Hyunwoo!" You pout.

"I am," Hyunwoo chuckles, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he ruffles your hair. "Please just marry him, Y/N. Don't you want Heejoo to bow at your feet and grovel?"

"Now that you mentioned it, yes, I would like to see her grovel," you replied, your mood shifting to a happier one. "Fine, I'll marry the prince. But you better be prepared, your highness, I'm not a sweet princess, so don't expect a fairytale marriage."

"That's perfectly fine," Seokmin replies.

"My wedding dress better not have frills and bows," you stare at him.

"I'll discuss it with your personal designer if that eases your mind," he nods.

"And don't be a pain in the ass. I don't have the patience to deal with that."

"I won't," he laughs. "You can treat me however you'd like."

"Really? That's quite interesting, your highness," you lean forward, a glint in your eyes. "I think I'll enjoy being your future wife."

"Goddess, please help me..."

"Do you know what you have done?!"

Your father is beyond furious, his face red, veins bulging. You rolled your eyes as Lady Ji is consoling a wailing Heejoo, patting her daughter's back. Heecheon is standing next to the two, his hand clenching into a tight fist, and he looks as though he's about to lunge and punch you.

"Oh, please. Stop acting like this is the end of the world," you sighed. "You should be happy that your eldest daughter is getting married to the crown prince. Isn't that what you've wanted all along?"

"Heejoo should have been the one marrying him, not you!" Your stepmother screeches.

"And yet, I'm the one the prince has chosen," you say with a smile, tilting your head, your voice sickly sweet. "Isn't that right, your highness?"

Seokmin huffs before nodding his head, his hand holding onto yours. "Yes, it is."

After discussing your meeting with Minghao and Seokmin a few nights ago, you thought it would be a good idea for him to come meet with your family and announce the engagement himself. You wanted him to witness the full extent of your family's true nature, and he had the pleasure of seeing first hand how they all treated you.

"You can't possibly be serious, your highness," Heejoo's cries subside as she speaks up, wiping away her tears. "Y/N can't be your wife."

"And why not?" you counter, crossing your arms over your chest, staring at the group of people. You notice Minghao and Hyunwoo strolling into the room, making their way towards where you and Seokmin are sitting.

"Because you're an embarrassment," Heecheon answers without missing a beat. "What man would want a brazen woman like you? One who has no manners and no sense of propriety."

"Heecheon," your father warns.

"What? It's true, Father. She's an embarrassment. Who would want her? She's been cast aside by high society, and no man in their right mind would want her," Heecheon spat.

"Are you saying his highness is not in his right mind?" Hyunwoo challenges, raising an eyebrow.

"What–no! I didn't mean–"

"It's okay, Sir Hyunwoo, I understand where he is coming from," Seokmin intervens, raising his hand to stop Hyunwoo. "But please rest assured, I am completely sane and I want nothing else but to marry your sister."

"Then I ask, your highness, why her?" Heecheon asks.

"Why not?" Minghao counters. "If the Crown Prince chose her, then it is not for us to question. He has a reason, and if that's not good enough for you, then that's on you."

"Pardon, Your Grace," Lady Ji looks at Minghao, "But this is a family matter. This does not concern the North."

"Doesn't it? If I recall, both Hyunwoo and Y/N are my family members. Am I wrong here, Hyunwoo?" Minghao asks, looking at your brother.

"No, your grace," Hyunwoo shakes his head, smiling. "You're not wrong."

"Lady Ji, you say it's a family matter and that it does not concern me but both Hyunwoo and Y/N are my maternal cousins. They're family and therefore, this concerns me, the Grand Duke," Minghao smiled at the stunned look on Lady Ji's face. "Did you not know?"

"There's...there's no way." Lady Ji shakes her head.

"But it's the truth. The three of us are related through blood. Which means I can interfere with matters concerning them," Minghao says.

"This is ridiculous!" Heecheon shouts. "He can't just barge in here and take over!"

"Watch your tongue, Heecheon," you say sharply, glaring at him. "Show some respect to the Grand Duke or it'll be your head."

"Y/N is correct. You should show more respect, Heecheon," your father heaves a sigh. "I apologize for my wife and children, your grace. Your highness. But I hope you can understand where we are coming from. Heejoo is my daughter and I would like her to marry well."

"So you're saying that Dame Y/N isn't your daughter?" Seokmin scoffs. "Unbelievable."

"Of course she's my daughter," your father starts but is cut off when Seokmin raises a hand.

"But you seem to treat her as if she's not," Seokmin raises an eyebrow.

"Your highness, surely you've heard the rumors," your stepmother cuts in, stepping forward. "Y/N isn't well-liked by others and the people call her a villainess. I'm sure you can understand why."

"A villainess," Seokmin repeats, testing the words out. "Interesting. A villainess, huh?"

"I'm glad you agree, your highness. My daughter, Heejoo, would have made a far better wife than Y/N. She is very obedient and a proper lady. She will run your household well and would bring prestige to the royal family," Lady Ji lists off.

"And what does Dame Y/N lack that would make her unsuitable?" Seokmin asks. "Would she not bring prestige to the royal family? She is an accomplished mage and is one of the military officers of the Grand Duke's army. She has been a big help in protecting the empire."

"Well, that is–"

"I don't see a problem in wanting to marry a woman who loves her kingdom and would sacrifice her life to protect it," Seokmin continues, cutting off whatever excuse your stepmother has. "Dame Y/N is well versed in the affairs of the empire and can hold her own."

"Thank you, your highness," you nod, smiling at him.

"I don't know how the rumor about her being a villainess came to be, but I have never met a more loyal woman," Seokmin praises.

You look over at him and notice him looking back at you. Was he actually praising you or was it just something to look good in front of your family?

"The Crown Prince is correct. She is a loyal woman," Minghao nods. "And she will make a fine wife."

"But–"

"Enough!" your father's booming voice startles everyone. "If the Crown Prince wants to marry Y/N, then he may."

"Father," Heejoo whines, her eyes starting to fill with tears. "Father, please. It's not fair. Why does Y/N get to be happy when I can't?"

"It is what it is, Heejoo," your father sighs. "We should celebrate the good news. Your sister is getting married to the Crown Prince."

"Father–" Heejoo starts.

"This discussion is over, Heejoo," he cuts her off, his voice firm and cold. "If the Crown Prince wants to marry your sister, then let him. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have work to do."

Your father turns and leaves the room, slamming the doors behind him. Your stepmother and Heecheon turn and glare at you before leaving, a sniffling Heejoo following close behind.

"Well, that was eventful," Minghao muses, looking at you and Hyunwoo.

"Welcome to my family, your highness," you joke.

Seokmin shook his head. "That's not how I imagined things to go. You didn't tell me your family was like this."

You shrug. "Would it have changed anything?"

"No."

"That's what I thought."

Hyunwoo shakes his head at your attitude. "Don't be a brat, Y/N."

"I can't help it," you reply. "They're too easy to annoy."

Minghao snorts. "And that's why the nobility think you're a villainess."

"Please," you scoff, rolling your eyes, "As if I care what they think about me."

"Maybe you should," Seokmin comments.

"Why? They have made up their minds about me," you shrug. "The common folk love me, and the soldiers admire me. And I have the Grand Duke's support, so who cares about high society? I don't."

"I can't believe I'm marrying someone like you," Seokmin sighs.

"Oh you'll be fine," you tease. "Who knows? We might even end up being happy."

"Or miserable."

"Now that's the spirit."

The royal wedding was a huge affair. Everyone wanted to be there and it was a grand celebration. There were thousands of flowers, expensive fabrics, and music that would make the goddess cry.

You would have loved to have skipped the whole thing, but unfortunately, you were the bride and that meant you were going to have to stand in front of all these people and get married.

"I hate this," you sigh, tugging at the lace sleeves of your wedding dress.

"Hate what?" Hyunwoo asks, fixing his collar.

"All of this," you gesture towards the room. "All of the pomp and pageantry. I didn't even want a big wedding."

"But we have to do it," Hyunwoo replies, fixing his jacket. "For appearances sake."

"Ugh," you groan. "I know. Still doesn't mean I have to like it."

"You'll be the crown princess soon," Hyunwoo reminds you. "Try to behave and don't be too much of a pain in the ass."

"No promises," you reply, walking away.

The wedding ceremony was held in the royal palace's grand hall and you were surprised to see the sheer number of people attending the ceremony. Nobles, mages, and soldiers lined the walls, watching as you made your way down the aisle, the long train of your wedding dress trailing behind you.

When you reached the end of the aisle, the priest started the ceremony, reciting the prayers and blessings. The next few moments went by in a blur and the next thing you knew, you were being crowned the Crown Princess and were being led back down the aisle, this time hand in hand with Seokmin.

As soon as the two of you reach the doors, Seokmin lets out a relieved sigh. He loosens his tie and removes his jacket, tossing it onto the nearby chair. "Well, that's done."

"What? Don't like weddings?" You tease, "Or don't like me?"

"I don't mind you or the wedding. It's the whole process of having to be the center of attention," he answers.

"The radiant and adored crown prince doesn't like being in the spotlight? I find that hard to believe," you say.

"I'm not radiant and adored," Seokmin rolls his eyes, "People love me because they think I'm the answer to all their problems."

You walk up to him, standing beside him. "You're right. They do use you."

"What about you? What do you want?" He looks down at you, studying your face.

"Me?" You tilt your head, humming in thought. "I want Heejoo to grovel."

"I'm serious," he furrows his eyebrows.

"So am I," you counter. "If I have the power to make Heejoo beg for mercy, then I'll use it."

"You don't want anything else?" Seokmin raises an eyebrow, curious.

"I don't," you answer honestly.

"Not even wealth? Title? Or power?"

"What for?" you scoff. "I'm already rich and a member of the Grand Duke's family. What more can I ask for? And the power I have as a military officer is enough for me."

"That's...quite refreshing," Seokmin admits, a hint of a smile on his lips. "I can't say that's what I was expecting."

You laugh and Seokmin can't help but like the way it sounds. "Oh? Do tell, your highness. What did you expect?"

"Someone who is just like the others, looking to gain something from this marriage," Seokmin mutters, looking out the window.

"People are complicated," you sigh as you approach him and fix his attire, "Even when they appear to be the epitome of kindness and grace, they still have hidden motives. When my mother passed away when I was ten and my father married Lady Ji, I thought things would be better. She was kind and caring the first few years but...after having Heecheon and Heejoo, her true colors showed."

Seokmin stays quiet, listening intently as he studies you.

"I lived eight years in the spotlight as the belle of society... just so I could get some sliver of affection from her. And all those years, I was just a nuisance, a burden. No matter how many achievements and accomplishments I made, it was never enough for her." You stepped away from him, taking a deep breath. "But then...when the Northern territories were at their worst, when we were facing war... I felt needed and appreciated. And I realized that I didn't need my father and his new family. I just wanted to help my people. I'm the happiest when the people are happy."

"You're nothing like people say," Seokmin mutters, a small smile on his face.

"Oh no. I am. I am a meanie," you chuckle. "I'm just a little nicer and softer on the inside than the outside."

Seokmin lets out a laugh and shakes his head. "You're definitely not what I expected."

"Good," you wink at him. "I'd rather not be like all the other women."

"Well, I'm glad," Seokmin hums. "Maybe this marriage won't be so bad."

"I can't promise I'll be the best wife, though."

"Why not?"

"Because," you lean forward and pat his cheek, a mischievous grin on your lips. "You're still the radiant and adored crown prince. And I'm the villainess married to the radiant and adored crown prince. The two of us together is the recipe for disaster."

Seokmin draws you close, his arm wrapping around your waist. "Maybe. Maybe not. Who knows?"

Married life with Seokmin wasn't as bad as you thought it would be. In fact, it was surprisingly pleasant. The two of you had fallen into a comfortable routine, one that you found yourself enjoying. He would handle the political meetings and you would deal with the northern territories' affairs. You were a team, a formidable one at that.

The only downside was the endless social obligations, which you despised. Seokmin found your disdain amusing, often teasing you about it. The two of you had developed an easy camaraderie, a friendship built on mutual respect and understanding. He never pushed for more, and for that, you were grateful. You were both content with the arrangement, at least for now.

You've shared kisses. Lingering glances and the brush of lips against skin. There have been stolen touches here and there. A playful squeeze of a thigh. Or the squeeze of an arm. But other than that, nothing had really progressed into more.

Sometimes, late at night when Seokmin was away for business or you were sleeping on your side, your dreams had become a little more vivid, a little more heated, your desires slipping through the cracks of your facade and escaping to the night. You yearn for his touch, your body aching with a deep hunger that you had yet to sate. And it was becoming harder to ignore the way your skin tingled whenever he brushed past, or the way your heart skipped a beat whenever he smiled at you.

What were these feelings and why did you feel this way towards Seokmin?

One day, you flop onto a chaise lounge in your shared sitting room, exhuasted from social obligations. "I swear, if one more simpering lady asks me about the floral arrangements for the upcoming summer ball, I'm going to magically set her fan on fire."

Seokmin looks up from the stack of reports he was reviewing, a genuine smile touching his lips. "And that, my dear wife, is why you are now in charge of all event planning. My apologies to the simpering ladies, but their suffering is a small price to pay for my peace of mind."

"I am not your event planner," you grumble, but without any real heat. "I do not… do… flower arrangements." The words were said with the same distaste one might use for 'chamberpot cleaning'. "I strategize battle formations and negotiate trade routes for vital resources. I do not care if the roses clash with the ladies' gowns."

"That's precisely why you're perfect for the job," he chuckles, setting his papers aside. "You will terrify them all into submitting their preferences on a single, concise scroll. You'll be the most efficient event planner in the kingdom's history. A terrifying, magnificent tyrant of tulle and table settings."

"Flattery will get you nowhere, husband," you shot back, though you couldn't suppress a smile at the image. "How I would love to talk to the visiting delegation from Inspirit instead. Their leader is a fascinating man, quite knowledgeable in ancient runes. I'd rather discuss magical theory than seating charts."

"Jeonghan can handle the diplomats. Besides," Seokmin leans forward, his expression shifting subtly from amused to serious, "I have another task for you. One that requires your particular… expertise."

Your interest was piqued. You sat up, swinging your legs over the side of the chaise. "Oh? Does it involve setting things on fire? Because I'm now highly motivated."

"No, no arson," he moves across the room, stopping in front of you. "What better way than to put your villainy to good use than bearing me a child?"

"You–" You start coughing. "What?"

He laughs. "I've been hounded by Jeonghan and the council about this. I can understand my brother wanting nieces and nephews in the palace but the council...ugh," he groans, pinching the bridge of his nose. "The old snobs won't give me a single moment of peace as they suggest that I take their daughters as concubines."

"How is this an expertise of mine?" you inquire.

"Well," Seokmin stands, taking your hand and pulling you up to him, his arms loosely encircling your waist. His scent of cardamom and fresh green tea fills the air around him, soothing you, "would it not be better for us to have children? Unless you want me to take in a concubine? Your father has been begging me to take Heejoo as one and–"

"Don't you dare finish that sentence," you glare at him. "The idea of Heejoo even touching you makes me want to run her over."

Seokmin presses a light kiss to the top of your head, the act surprisingly intimate and tender. "I assure you that there will be no mistresses or concubines," his lips brush against your hair as his fingers deftly play with the buttons at the small of your back.

"The last thing I want is a harem filled with your children," you huff.

His fingers slide under the silk, caressing the bare skin underneath. Your spine stiffens before relaxing, pressing into him, softening under the gentle touches. "Then what do you want?" He purrs, his breath warm and sweet against the shell of your ear. "I won't force you. If you truly don't wish to have children, I won't hold it against you."

"Truly?" You pull back to meet his gaze, your eyes searching for sincerity.

"Truly," his expression is somber, his gaze steady as he looks down at you, a stray strand of dark hair hanging in his eyes.

You reach up and gently tuck the strand behind his ear, studying his face. "You surprise me," you murmur.

"Surprises can be good," Seokmin brushes his thumb over your lower lip. Your pulse quickens, butterflies fluttering in your stomach as he stares intently. "May I surprise you, my villainess?"

"I…Yes..." It's just one kiss, you think, what harm could come from that? You wonder briefly if his lips are as soft and supple as they seem...if he tastes like green tea and lemon cakes, your favorite dessert.

Seokmin cradles the back of your head, bringing you closer, his mouth seeking yours. He claims you and you let him, opening up to him like a flower to the sun. Your senses fill with him and only him, with the sweetness of his taste and the dizzying heat of his touch, and in that moment, the two of you share something honest and precious.

"Just so you know..." you pull back slightly, breaking the kiss, your eyes fluttering open, "I've never done this before..." Your words come out soft, barely a whisper, your cheeks burning with embarrassment at the admission.

"Oh?" Seokmin cocks an eyebrow, his smile warm and gentle. "The most feared woman in the kingdom and yet the thing that scares her the most is this."

"Do you intend to mock me or simply make fun of me?" You narrow your eyes at him. "Because I can leave."

Seokmin laughs, picking you up and carrying you towards the bedroom. "Mock you? How? I don't think you could get any more perfect, my villainess." He lays you down, climbing over you, his expression soft. "To tell you the truth, I haven't shared my bed with anyone before."

You scoff, "As if anyone could resist you."

He leans in, trailing feather-light kisses across your forehead, down the slope of your nose, before placing the sweetest kiss against your lips. "Just like the sun, I may radiate warmth and beauty, but I'm always alone."

You study the expression on his face, looking for hints of dishonesty, but all you see is acceptance and...hope.

"People want my warmth and beauty but they never see me...for me," he confesses, his voice barely above a whisper, the sound thick with emotion, "They don't realize how lonely it can get being the center of attention." His fingers run along the skin of your cheek, soft and gentle. "You and I are alike in that way, so different from the others. One adored and the other hated. People who either admire or fear."

You sigh, covering his hand with yours and leaning into his palm. "A strange pair, the both of us."

Seokmin nods in agreement.

You hesitate before speaking. You've never been the one to pour your heart and feelings for someone else, especially to someone you've not known for too long. "I'll...try my hardest, Seokmin. I'm not perfect."

"Who is?" Seokmin counters, peppering kisses along your jawline. "Perfection is such a boring concept."

"I will be terrible at running this palace," you're scrambling, digging your nails into his shoulders as he bites your collar bone, "All the balls and meetings. I can't."

"Nonsense," Seokmin's voice is low and raspy, his lips hovering over the hollow of your throat, "I need my villainous wife to put those in line."

"Right," you breathe, tangling your fingers in his hair, arching into his mouth, "Right. I'll...scare them. That's...that's my expertise, after all."

He pulls back, flashing a smile so beautiful and pure that it knocks the air out of you. "The most vicious of villainess, ready to inflict terror upon the court."

You let out a laugh, cupping his cheeks. "My prince...you are such an idiot."

Seokmin pulls the pins and ribbons from your hair and they tumble down around you, his fingers getting caught as he rakes through the locks, stroking your hair. You bite your lip and gasp when his mouth moves down to the column of your neck, planting open-mouthed kisses along the tender flesh, a slow burning heat igniting within you as he nips the skin and laves his tongue across the marks.

You cling to him desperately, your hands shaking as they fumble to undo his jacket, the satin soft beneath your palms. You're drowning in sensations, your head spinning, and your heartbeat thrumming wildly in your ears. Seokmin helps you along, pulling off the constricting fabric, his shirt quickly following.

Your mouth goes dry and you forget how to breathe when you admire his exposed upper body, the sleek lines of his chest and stomach, the defined muscles under his bronze skin.

He's beautiful, breathtaking, and you're mesmerized, your hand reaching out to trace over the curve of his shoulders, down the elegant arch of his neck.

"You're positive that you never had other women touch you?" you ask skeptically.

"Just you," he answers with a smile, "You, my dearest wife."

You pause. "...what if I'm terrible in bed?"

Seokmin stops kissing your shoulder, his dark brown eyes flicking up to meet yours, the corners of his mouth quirking upward, dimpling his cheeks. His amusement is evident, causing a pink blush to rise and spread over your face. "Then we can be horrible together."

"So comforting," you mutter, a twinge of nervousness fluttering in the pit of your stomach. "I... don't even know where to begin..."

"Then we can explore it all, together," he removes the dress and unlaces your corset, helping you out of the layers of fabric. He sucks in a sharp breath, his pupils dilating as your body is revealed to him.

"Ummm...don't just stare. You'll make me nervous," you squirm and try to hide yourself from him, but he catches your arms and keeps them still.

"It's beautiful...you're beautiful," he marvels, his eyes soft and adoring. Seokmin studies you closely, as if he were trying to commit the sight to memory, to carry it in his heart forever. His gaze sweeps over you reverently, full of tender adoration and it causes your insides to feel gooey.

Seokmin kisses the inside of your wrist, trailing soft, ticklish caresses down your arm, eliciting a breathless gasp of pleasure. His movements are unhurried, allowing you both the opportunity to explore one another.

You arch into him when Seokmin takes one of the hardened peaks of your breast into his mouth, your fingers running through the soft silky strands of his hair, cradling his head to you, urging him to continue.

"Have mercy," he whispers, nuzzling the valley between your breasts, before switching to the other, "Your responses are...mesmerizing." Seokmin trails his fingers up the underside of your thighs, slowly parting your legs and shifting them over his broad shoulders.

"W-What are you doing?" you squeaked, trying to squeeze your legs shut, your toes curling against the supple skin of his bare back.

Seokmin grins devilishly. He blows against your clit, delighting in the way your hips buck towards him, before dragging his tongue down along the slit. "Tasting you. Trying to figure out which part will make you call my name."

You don't have time to process what that means before his mouth is latched onto you, his tongue delving past your folds, tracing intricate patterns and licks that make your knees shake. He uses his thumb to play with your clit while he thrusts his tongue into you, his fingers moving to spread your inner lips so he can lick you clean, tasting the essence of you.

You couldn't remember what your own name is as you writhe beneath him. Seokmin hums against you, the vibrations setting your nerves ablaze, his nose bumping against your clit. You buck into him, clutching him for dear life as his mouth works to bring you pleasure beyond your wildest dreams, every touch electrifying.

There's nothing else but Seokmin. There's no need for any other thoughts, no obligations. The warmth of his breath and the slickness of his tongue, the way he takes his sweet, agonizing time lavishing attention on you, heats the fire that's burning low in your belly, flames licking upwards, scorching and bright, threatening to burst.

You call his name when you come, sobbing out broken syllables into the evening air, your entire body trembling. His strong arms hold you upright, holding you tightly as you shudder in his embrace, riding out the waves of ecstasy and delight.

When you return to reality, Seokmin is gazing up at you, a lazy smile stretching his swollen mouth, his chin and cheeks glistening. He brings up his thumb, swiping the wetness before sucking on the digit. The action causes your stomach to twist in delightful anticipation, your thighs squeezing together as another rush of arousal spikes through you.

You think you should feel dirty and embarrassed after climaxing against his mouth, but it doesn't seem to faze him in the slightest, only serving to encourage him more.

"How was I?" he asks, trailing sloppy, open-mouthed kisses over your hips. "Not too bad of a first try, right?"

He looks so absurdly pleased with himself, and you can't help the laughter that bubbles out. You pull his face towards yours and taste yourself on his lips. "You are unbelievable," you giggle, wiping the last remnants of your juices from his face.

"So I did good," Seokmin says as he slides up your body, his heated skin rubbing against yours in the most tantalizing way, until his face is level with yours. You cup his cheeks, bringing him closer, sealing his mouth over yours. You moan into him at the flavor of the two of you combined and Seokmin groans, biting your lower lip, slipping his tongue into your mouth, the velvet appendage dancing with yours in a slow, sensual waltz. He reaches down, dipping his fingers into the wetness seeping from your center, making sure you're ready. "Y/N," he whispers your name softly, "Is this really your first time?"

"Why does this concern you?" you grumble.

He presses a kiss to your brow. "It does...because I want you to enjoy it as well," he murmurs.

"Despite what others say about me," you draw little shapes on his shoulders, "I've never lain with any man, not in the way you mean."

He chuckles, nipping the sensitive skin below your ear. "Glad to be your first."

Before you can say anything, Seokmin drops down and covers one of your breasts with his palm, pinching the nipple between his fingers, the sensation shooting a bolt of heat to your core. You gasp, covering your face as the overwhelming sensations of the day's activities continue.

"Y/N," Seokmin stops teasing the swell of your breasts. Your hands slip away, a soft cry escaping your lips, and his forehead drops to yours, eyes searching. "Would you rather I take you from behind? To see each other is not as bad, but..." he runs his hands up and down the expanse of your back, his erection rubbing against the skin of your lower abdomen. "If you're more comfortable then... that way would be best."

You shake your head. "No. This is fine, please," you mumble, gripping his shoulders and hiding in the curve of his neck. "Please."

"Let me know if I hurt you," he whispers before lifting and spreading your thighs. He runs the tip along the slit, nudging the opening. "I'll stop whenever you want."

"Go...just go," you squeak out.

Slowly, he presses himself into you. "Oh, goddess," his eyes slam shut, a harsh groan tearing from his throat, his fingers digging into the skin of your ass, his expression twisted with pained pleasure, "you're so tight, you feel so fucking good."

You gasp at the stinging stretch and the almost-too-much pressure of his intrusion. His eyes shoot open at your pained hiss and he freezes immediately, stroking his hands over your skin. "Do you-"

"Don't you dare stop," you order him. Your hands grip his forearms, steadying yourself. You grit your teeth, bracing for the pain as he buries himself in to the hilt, fighting the urge to curse. Seokmin burrows his face against the side of your head, his breath fanning over you as he waits for your body to adjust to him.

"Ah, Y/N... fuck..." Seokmin moans your name softly, pressing hot, fervent kisses across the column of your neck.

"Give...give me a second," you pant, biting your lip hard and wincing as he rubs soothing circles into the soft skin.

"Just breathe...shh," he soothes, murmuring calming words against your lips, capturing your mouth. He does his best to keep you relaxed as the initial pain slowly melts into a burning ache that's not entirely unpleasant. He nudges his nose against yours. "Are you okay?"

"Y-Yes..." you breathe out slowly, dropping your forehead on his chest.

Your walls are twitching deliciously around him, clenching tightly. It's difficult for him not to give into the urge and thrust into your tight warmth. He runs his hand over your face, pulling you away from his chest and captures your lips in a lingering, sensual kiss. The coil of heat twists inside of you again and you give an experimental shift of your hips, the stinging not as painful as it was seconds ago.

Seokmin peppers kisses along the valley between your breasts and neck, whispering soothing words, waiting for you to adjust, to relax around him before beginning to move.

"You can move now," you tell him, cupping his face, "Sl-Slowly."

You bite the inside of your cheek as he pulls back, gripping his arms, the stinging ache flaring briefly before melting into a heated pulse as he thrusts forward, pushing back in. His hand skims down the side of your waist, resting on your hip, anchoring you to him as he slowly rocks himself into you. "Is it better?" he rasps out, nuzzling the sensitive hollow just below your ear, "Or do I need to stop?"

"K-Keep going," your hands slide up along the smooth ridges and plains of his chest. He exhales heavily, burying himself fully, and your fingers grasp at his hair, pulling the locks with each of his slow thrusts, his strokes gentle and mindful as he sets the pace.

"You're beautiful," he whispers, "...so beautiful." You whimper, tipping your head back and he takes advantage of the position, the slope of your neck open and exposed to him, his lips moving over the skin, branding it with marks that claim. Your nails scrape along the curve of his biceps, down his toned biceps. Seokmin's warm hands splay on your back, his fingers reaching around and grabbing the full swell of your ass.

He hitches your thigh higher against his waist, grinding into you, brushing against an exceptionally sensitive area. Every roll of his hips has him brushing up against a sensitive spot that has you arching into him. Your fingers trace over the sharp angle of his jaw and the edge of his elegant brow, before he draws you into a heated kiss that leaves you both breathless and craving more.

Everything feels new and exciting and Seokmin is content to help you explore this unknown territory, his hands encouraging and loving and patient. With every gasp, moan, and touch, you can feel something stirring within, growing stronger, taking root deep in your soul.

He begins to pick up the pace, his hips meeting yours in a delicious friction, drawing a chorus of breathless groans. The sensations overwhelm you, his sweat-slicked skin gliding against yours, the heat and scent of his body cocooning you in warmth and security and desire.

There's nothing else but thoughts of him. Nothing but Seokmin. How good it feels, how you need more, how the sensations have your stomach quivering, how you'll let yourself drown in his touch.

You've forgotten how to breathe properly as he draws your name over and over again between sighs and kisses, and with the reverence and ardor with which he worships you. Your legs wrap around his waist and he surges forward, causing you to call his name breathlessly, crying out from the over-sensitized nerve endings and the tightening heat coiling low.

"Let go," he breathes raggedly into your ear, and with a snap of his hips he drives his length to the hilt.

And just like that, you unravel, his name on your lips as white-hot heat burns through you. Seokmin stiffens and surges forward with a broken moan, shuddering, his fingers digging into your hips as he chases the high and finally joins you.

For a few moments the two of you stay in the same position, regaining your breath. A layer of sweat glistens over your skin and Seokmin uses his fingers to gently rub your arms. When you look at his face, the sight causes you to swallow thickly. He's beaming, eyes aglow as he gazes upon you.

His eyes are so warm, his smile so brilliant and bright and blinding that it nearly steals your breath. Your chest throbs, aching fiercely, the odd sensation overwhelming, almost too much.

This is ridiculous. Absurd. Impossible. There's no way you've fallen this hard for this stupid, sun-lit man. Not after one night. And yet, with Seokmin touching you, looking at you with those beautiful eyes, his hair disheveled and framing the angles of his handsome face, you know that your heart has already been lost.

"Can..." you chew on the inside of your cheek as he tucks some of the unruly strands behind your ear, his brown eyes warm and steady and completely focused on you. "Can we do that again?"

Seokmin lets out a husky laugh that sends shivers racing up and down your spine. "My dearest wife," he croons, wrapping his arms around you, pecking you sweetly, "all you have to do is say the word."

The palace was bustling as preparations for the summer ball were underway. Servants, workers and military men scrambled through the halls as you made your way, tugging Seokmin alongside you.

It's been three months since you first lain together and both have enjoyed the intimacies that are now shared between each other. Your feelings have begun to grow and with it, a little living being inside of you. You haven't told him yet about the impending bundle of joy, waiting for the perfect time.

However, your good mood has dropped to a completely sour one. When you found out that Heejoo would assist you as a lady-in-waiting, you wanted nothing more than to roast her in a flame spell. But because your father and stepmother begged the king for it, there wasn't anything you could say.

"What a day," you grumble, tying a ribbon on the flower garlands for the ball. "If Heejoo undermines me one more time, I'll throw her from the second floor balcony. Or roast her. Whichever is the first one to appear in my mind."

Your husband chuckles. "Did something happen?" he inquires as the both of you continue making your way towards the main hall.

"Other than Heejoo telling the maids to switch out the flowers and linens that I had been picking all morning? No, nothing at all," you roll your eyes as you reply sarcastically.

Seokmin glances over at you. He offers you a sympathetic pat on the hand.

"Tell me. If this place was lit on fire, how long do you think it would take them to burn? A few minutes? An hour, tops?" you muttered.

"No arson," Seokmin laughs as he helps you settle down onto the garden chairs for your afternoon tea.

You laugh. "Fire spells are useful." You wiggle your eyebrows as he joins you.

The both of you start to work on the plans for the upcoming events, making changes and comments on the events that would be taking place. You hold back a wince. There had been a bout of morning sickness lately and Seokmin noticed you massaging your stomach earlier.

"Are you hurt?" He reaches over to your hands, cupping them with his. "Y/N?" His voice drops and there's no hiding from him now. He looks so concerned as his eyes narrow into slits, his gaze scouring your body for the source of pain. He's looking at you in a way that warms you from the inside out, his soft voice, full of concern.

It almost hurts to realize just how much this man actually loves you. How much you love him back. It makes you want to do everything and anything you can to make sure this wonderful man in front of you doesn't ever experience sadness in his life. To protect him from everything, his and yours, to ensure that he could smile like that for the rest of your lives.

"My prince," you started, "I need to tell you something very important."

"I'm all ears," he replied, burying his face against the crook of your neck, his large hands holding you close to his warm body.

"You'll have to start being more gentle with me in bed," you whisper, taking one of his hands and guiding it to your stomach, letting it linger.

"Why?" his voice was laced with concern as his head shot up and his brows pulled together, "Am I doing something wrong? Did I hurt you? Did I-"

You press a finger to his lips, shushing his panicked mumbling. "You haven't hurt me, and you didn't do anything wrong. And as for why you should be gentle..." You press his palm firmly against the slight bump on your abdomen.

"...Oh," Seokmin pauses and blinks, realization dawning on him, the tips of his ears pink. He opens his mouth, closes it, swallows hard, and then opens it once more. "OH."

A burst of laughter bubbles from your chest and you find yourself nodding, kissing his chin. "Mhmm...so be a little softer with me, alright?"

"Are you absolutely positive?" Seokmin asked softly, his hand splaying protectively over your belly, his lips ghosting against your hair, "It isn't a mistake?"

"Definitely no mistake," you confirm, "You can ask the palace staff. I've been having horrible morning sickness." You look down, blushing a light pink. "And with the way we've been going at it lately...it would be difficult for it to be any one else's."

He laughs, a sound as lovely as wind chimes, melodic and sweet, "I...uh, guess we do get quite...rambunctious at night."

You tuck your head into the junction of his neck and shoulder, hiding the burning embarrassment as you recall just how many times a day he's been coming to you, eager and wanting.

Not that you didn't welcome him with open arms, his appetite insatiable, his lips worshipping your body and soul.

"Let's announce it at the Summer Ball," he says suddenly, sounding happier than you've ever heard him before. He stands abruptly, hands cupping your flushed cheeks, eyes warm and bright. "It'll be a great celebration."

Your heart melts at the excitement swirling in his brown eyes.

You grin and allow your prince to scoop you in his arms and spin the both of you around in gleeful celebration, squealing with delight. The announcement of an heir, especially a future king or queen, was a joyful event and one to be celebrated.

But in your joy, neither one of you noticed that someone had witnessed your private moment, hiding behind one of the many bushes dotting the beautiful landscape.

You're as big as a whale and you are now in your ninth month of pregnancy. The baby would be arriving at any moment so you've had to stop attending to all the state affairs, letting Seokmin handle them instead. While you were grateful that your husband had been so attentive to you and the growing child in your womb, you found yourself getting bored and restless. You hated being cooped up in your bedroom, unable to do anything else but read. The only good thing about it was that you were able to use your magic to help alleviate some of your aches and pains.

"You're getting bigger," Seokmin notes, pressing a kiss to your swollen stomach.

"I'm going to explode," you groan, your feet up on a small ottoman as he rubs your ankles for you. "I can't believe I'm this huge. I look like a balloon."

"It's a good thing," he grins, "Means that the baby is coming soon. You'll be able to see our child sson."

"Our child. It still feels weird to say that," you giggle, "Who knew the most feared woman in the kingdom would end up as a mother?" You turn to look at him. "Seokmin?"

"Hmmm?" he hums, his eyes closed.

"I love you," you smile softly at him as you speak, your heart full to bursting. You know that you can't keep it a secret for much longer and you want him to know the truth.

The words hit him like a lightning bolt. He goes completely still, his entire body turning rigid, before his eyes flutter open, a stunned expression on his face. "You...You love me?" he stutters, "Did you mean that?"

"Of course, I meant it. What? Were you expecting me to say that I hate you?" you chuckle as you lean forward to kiss him. You pull back slightly, looking into his brown eyes. "I love you, Seokmin."

He beams brightly and you realize that you've never seen him so happy. "I love you too," he whispers against your lips. "I love you so much."

You sigh happily, content with his love, your heart singing with joy at his admission. You have no clue as to how much time has passed with the two of you sitting there and trading sweet kisses and gentle caresses.

"Do you think our child is a boy or girl?" you wonder as you settle comfortably in his embrace.

"Hmmm...As long as our baby is healthy, I don't mind having a little prince or princess," he remarks.

"I have no clue on how to care for a child...what if I am terrible at raising one?" you worriedly mumble as you pick at the embroidery on your dress. "What if I don't make a very good mother?"

"Hey now," Seokmin shifts around, laying flat and guiding you to rest your cheek on his chest. "I'll be beside you every step of the way."

"Don't you find that frightening," you worriedly admit, "the thought of us having a child, being parents, what if our child learns their bad ways from me? Like setting things on fire?" Your words give him pause for a few moments before a light, warm laughter emanates from the deep planes of his chest and out of his lips. "It's not funny! Stop laughing, Seokmin!" You shove him lightly, trying to be firm despite how happy the sound makes you.

His arms tighten around you and he pulls you closer. "You'll be a wonderful mother," Seokmin reassures you as his lips kiss the top of your head. "Because the woman that I love with all my heart would never hurt our child or let anything bad happen to them."

You sniffled. "O-Oh yeah? How are you so sure?" you laugh with a choked voice, your eyes growing wet at his sweet declaration. He always knows what to say and how to make you feel better, and how can a villainess not fall madly in love with such a wonderful person?

"Because the woman I know is kind, understanding and compassionate, patient and hardworking, passionate and fierce."

You reach down to thread his fingers through his own. His hand is warm and big and perfectly fitted to yours, the same warmth, and love emanating through you and spreading from the tips of your fingers.

Seokmin draws slow circles onto your shoulders, his other hand keeping your head against his steady heartbeat. "Everything will work out. No matter what happens, I will be with you," he murmurs softly and you burrow even closer to him, hiding your tears away from view. "And I know I am very happy about meeting my future princess or prince."

"Please stop being so perfect," you mutter.

Seokmin gives a rumbling laugh as you nuzzle against him, sighing softly, and his body curls protectively around yours. His hand runs slowly over your back, up and down the length of your spine, as his soft voice floats around you, and you find your muscles slowly relaxing.

His words fade away into the background, and all you can do is close your eyes as a sweet sleepiness drifts over you, settling deeply into your very core.

Seokmin is working late tonight and you're sitting in your shared rooms, reading reports from Hyunwoo. You rub your round belly absentmindedly, humming to your unborn child when you hear a knock on the door.

"Come in," you call out, your eyes never leaving the words on the paper.

You hear the soft click of the door, the sound of shoes, and a woman's footsteps as she enters. "Your highness," Heejoo curtsies to you.

"Oh," you sigh, "what do you want?" You're tired and your feet are killing you. There's nothing you want more than a hot bath and to sleep. But first, you want this person who is making your life difficult to leave.

"Please forgive me for disturbing your rest," she begins, "but I brought tea and snacks for you." Heejoo gestures to the tray that she had brought with her. "I know the pregnancy has been quite a chore for you and I just wanted to help."

You study her for a few moments, your instincts telling you that something was off, but your tiredness clouded your judgment. You decide to dismiss the feelings and sigh. "Alright." You motion towards her to bring it over.

The corner of her lips curve up, an uncharacteristically malicious expression marring her pretty face. You never catch it since you're pouring over another report. Heejoo puts the tray on your table and pours tea into the cup that sits there, using an herb to infuse its fragrance and a sugar cube to add its sweetness before she mixes it in, her motions a perfect picture of politeness. "My congratulations on the upcoming arrival. The whole family is excited for the newest addition."

"You seem rather chipper," you raise an eyebrow at her as you raise the cup to your lips. The taste was different from the usual tea that your maids would make. There was a strange, bitter flavor to it. You set the cup down, raising an eyebrow. "Something's off."

Heejoo's smile widens. "Oh, it's just a special tea that I made for you."

"Is that so?" You rub your tummy, feeling your child move and kick a little. You then begin to massage the ache. "Thank you. You're dismissed." You wave at her, the aching starting to grow.

Heejoo's frame trembles with hidden mirth at the sight of you drinking the tea without question. "You're quite welcome, sister." She pauses at the threshold and looks over at you, the vicious smirk lingering. "He should have been mine."

"What?" you manage to cough out.

Her smirk grows bigger as she approaches you once more. Her steps are elegant and precise and you suddenly feel nauseous. "Pity the villainess only learns her lesson right when her happily ever after is snatched from under her," she cooes at you, her voice high-pitched as she mockingly pats you on the cheek, her brown eyes filled with hatred. "Well, soon you won't have to worry anymore because you won't be around to know."

Realization sets in, the pain in your abdomen becoming unbearable, your heartbeat accelerates and your vision swirls. "Y-you," you hunch over, crying from the pain and trying to gather your energy.

Heejoo stands straight and clasps her hands together, sighing contentedly, "I'm glad that you were stupid enough to drink it. I will rid this kingdom of both you and your child." She flicks her hair, letting it fall into waves over her slender shoulder, and smiles gleefully at you.

Tears burn the back of your eyes and the pain in your chest swells. "Why are you doing this?" You grunt from pain as you lean against the settee, clutching at the spot over where your heart beats furiously.

"I was supposed to be his bride!" Heejoo screams as her perfectly crafted image comes crashing down. "It was supposed to be me!" she continues, her hand twirling her hair as a manic smile appears, the colors draining from her. "This was supposed to be my happy ending but no, you got in the way when you survived that assassination attempt! You were never meant to be the heroine. How dare you have the gall to take everything from me?!"

You let out a sigh of amusement. "Oh Heejoo..." You shake your head and stand, forcing yourself up, holding your round belly. "YOU took everything from me," you breathe out shakily, the pain unbearable. You close your eyes and breathe out. "The moment your mother married my father," your voice rises and falls sharply. You pant and wipe your hand over your brow. "The moment you and Heecheon were born," your breathing grows deeper and harder. "Everything was handed to you," your knees start to buckle from the lack of oxygen and pressure from the tea. "I'm just taking it all back."

Heejoo cries out in outrage. "Shut up! Everything was supposed to be MINE!" she snaps. "You should have died that night. And yet, here you are. Still alive." Her fists are clenched so hard, her knuckles start to turn white. "That child." A snarl appears on her face as she points at your tummy. "I will not let you have the one thing that should have been mine."

"Don't you dare harm this child!" you roar as you stumble forward, catching yourself with a coffee table. The table toppled and sent the porcelain that sat on its surface flying.

"You can't hurt me," she grins wildly. "Not while you're on death's door." Heejoo puts her finger to her chin, looking thoughtful, her brown eyes twinkling malevolently. "His highness will be so sad," she mocks, "losing a baby and his beloved wife."

Hate. It's the only thing you feel as you listen to her empty self righteous speech. Hate and despair, not just because of the agony the poison had wrought in your body, but because you'll never see your child or your husband again.

Seokmin...he didn't deserve this, you think as your knees buckle and you slump to the ground, trying to drag your body forward, trying to make your limbs move, trying to access your magic. But all you can feel is that sweet numbness coming over your body, seeping slowly and completely into your very core.

"My dearest sister," she spits out and glares, pulling a dagger from her skirts, "it's time for you to die."

She raises her dagger but she never gets the chance to strike you.

Seokmin, who had entered the room to check on you, rushed over to you as the guards surrounded Heejoo. They grabbed her immediately, not that she didn't go willingly. It was useless to fight a losing battle. The guards dragged her out, ignoring her screeching as they locked her up. "Take her to the dungeons," he orders, his eyes never leaving you. He turns to you, taking you in his arms. "Are you alright? Did she hurt you?"

"Seokmin," you breathe out, holding onto him as he picks you up. "I'm...I'm sorry. I was so tired and I...I should have known better than to trust her."

"Shh," he hushes you, pressing a soft kiss to the top of your head, "don't blame yourself." He lays you down on the bed and summons the maids to get a healer. Your body aches from Heejoo's attack and you're still dizzy, feeling the remnants of the tea.

"Your highness," one of the maids calls out, "we need to get the baby out of her." The maids begin to take off your clothes and the healer begins to examine you.

"It's time?" you ask, panic rising in you.

The healer nods. "We need to get the child out now. The poison will be deadly for the child."

Seokmin takes your hand, his other hand rubbing your belly soothingly. "I'm here. I'm not going anywhere." He kisses you gently, whispering words of reassurance.

"You must be strong," the healer says, "the baby must come out."

"Seokmin," you gasp, your fingers squeezing his hand so tight that you're sure it'll bruise. "I'm scared."

"I thought I'll never see the day where my strong wife will admit to being scared." He cups your chin with his free hand, tilting your face up. He pecks you on the lips. "I'm afraid too," he murmurs, resting his forehead against yours, eyes screwed shut and eyebrows furrowed in concentration. He exhales loudly. "This is the hardest thing I ever had to do. I'm terrified to lose the one good thing that happened to me."

Tears stream down your face and you feel the reassuring caress of his hand on the side of your face, his thumb tracing your cheekbone and wiping away the moisture. "Do you...do you think our baby will be alright? Even after what happened?"

He lifts your entangled fingers and places them against the left side of his chest, your palm splaying over his heart. "Our hearts beat the same. And as long as it beats, our baby will be ok." You lean over, nuzzling the side of his face. He catches the tear that threatens to fall off your cheekbone. "And so will you, my love."

"Your highness, it's time," the healer speaks, "it is best for the child to come out now."

Seokmin presses another kiss to your lips, gentle, fleeting. "I'm not going anywhere, okay? Focus on the healer and you can squeeze the life out of me."

With Seokmin's encouragement whispered in your ear, you manage to deliver your baby, weak from poison and exhausted beyond measure. After the baby was delivered, the healers worked on clearing any traces of poison in both you and your baby. Seokmin stayed by your side the whole time, whispering encouragement and apologies, keeping you awake. Once the healers have declared you in the clear, he curls around your frame, spooning you, drawing you closer to him until you could feel his warmth against the whole of your skin.

"Sleep," he sighs against the crook of your neck.

And sleep you did.

You wake up to the sound of soft baby cooing and Seokmin's low murmurings.

"Hello there, my little prince," you hear him say softly as you blink your eyes open.

"Seokmin?" you call out groggily. "Is the baby...is it…"

Seokmin turns to look at you, a bright smile on his face. "Our baby is safe," he informs you, showing you the little bundle that he was cradling in his arms.

You gaze down at the tiny baby, tears forming in your eyes as you see the small child. You reach out, stroking a finger along the chubby cheek. "Hi, there," you whisper, a happy smile spreading across your face, "I'm so happy you're alright." You look up at Seokmin. "What happened to Heejoo? Is she…?"

"She's in prison," he nods, "she'll be there for a long time."

"How is my father and the rest of the family taking it?" you sigh, snuggling closer to your baby. You were surprised at the strong urge to protect your child.

"There's an open investigation against them. There are cases of embellizing funds, tax fraud and abuse of power." He explains as he gets comfortable next to you. "Your family, apart from Hyunwoo, are under house-arrest pending their hearings."

"Hyunwoo is okay?" you ask of your older brother.

"Yes," Seokmin affirms, "He's the only one that hasn't been charged with anything since he's one of the Grand Duke's men. If your father is stripped of his title, then it will go to Hyunwoo since the eldest of a direct line is always the heir."

"But...where do I stand?" you ask worriedly.

"My wife is worried about her reputation," he teases. You hit his shoulder and he yelps out. "You have nothing to worry about. You're one of the Grand Duke's people, the crown princess and most of all, my wife." He places a light kiss to your cheek, smiling against your warm flesh.

"I'm the wife of a fool," you smile affectionately at him, "but at the same time, a strong, powerful man." You kiss him, letting your emotions convey how you felt. When you part from him, you smile and cup his cheek with a gentle palm, thumb running along the apple of it. "Seokmin, I..."

You were saved from uttering your feelings when a loud cry escaped the babe's mouth. "Oh, I guess the little prince is hungry," he grins softly. Seokmin places the child against your chest. "Our child is absolutely perfect and so are you."

The babe nuzzles close to your breast and you lift the garment to let the infant suckle, the soft noises comforting. Seokmin runs his hands over the baby's soft head. "I love you," he murmurs against the side of your head, "I love you so much."

The both of you gaze tenderly upon the small infant, his body relaxed as your smaller frame tenses up before Seokmin squeezes you in a warm embrace. He draws you as close to him, careful not to crush the child nestled against you, his touch gentle and comforting.

"I never thought," Seokmin swallows deeply, "that I can ever love you more than I already have, but the thought of losing you and our child scared me more than anything in the world." He squeezes you closer to him, almost as if he was making sure that the two of you are in fact safe. "I can never love another woman," Seokmin admits, his voice catching as he finally utters his fears, the pressure from his position and his heart. "If that woman isn't you."

You squeeze his hands in return, bringing them up to your face to kiss the knuckles. "You are also the first and only man I will love," you inform him, eyes studying every detail of his beautiful face, a hand reaching up to tangle in his locks. "And I love you so much." You pause as Seokmin blinks slowly before returning your affection, his soft lips meeting yours.

It's a soft kiss, comforting, a simple and intimate gesture of your devotion to one another. As your mouths move in tandem, his hand cups the side of your cheek and brings your head closer to him, making you almost lean into his embrace, into his warm, loving presence.

Pulling away, his breathing is heavy and his eyes remain locked onto yours, gazing at you lovingly and with a new-found fervor. The pad of his thumb strokes your cheekbone. He stares at you and your own mouth hangs open, your breath falling from your lips in deep inhales and exhales as he stares at you. You lean closer into his hand and his eyes are liquid amber, radiating with desire and affection. He lifts the small hand of the little bundle into the air and the child clutches at his father's larger hand.

Seokmin gives the back of the babe's hand a sweet kiss, his eyes locked onto you, and you can almost hear the words that hover in the air. You hope to see more of this loving and adoring father as your little family grows.

"I'm the villainess and you're the perfect crown prince," you tell him after some time, "and yet, here we are with a happy ending. For me, for you and most importantly, for our child."

Seokmin leans into your frame, hugging you, the three of you pressed up against one another. "Yes," he agrees softly. "This is the start of the beginning for us." He snuggles his face into the side of your neck, nipping at the exposed skin with his lips. "Let's make more babies. Lots of them," he mumbles against the crook of your shoulder.

You can only chuckle, patting the top of his head. "One at a time, husband," you whisper teasingly, "One at a time."

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