▻ Ribbons of Gold
↳ Prince!Jimin x f.Reader
⤜ Royalty/Prince AU, Arranged Marriage, Blast From The Past
⤜ Childhood Friends to Lovers | angst, fluff, smut
⤜ Rating: MA
⤜ WC: 33,623
⤜ Summary: Jimin, a prince bound by duty, and you, a woman bound against her will, are reunited by a childhood promise—one he has cherished, and you have outgrown. When your long-awaited betrothal becomes a gilded cage, old affection fractures under the weight of resentment, forcing you to choose between love, freedom, and the roles that you cannot escape.
⚠️ Mild language, heavy angst, fear of loss (of a parent), kissing, fingering, v. sex
Each chapter will have specific warnings listed.
Prologue: A time between childhood and adulthood, where promises have weight and hearts are still learning…
Chapter 1: Path of Thorns
Chapter 2: On My Knees
Chapter 3: All I Want Is You
Story is complete.
A/N: This is written for @pars-ley as part of the @bangtanwritershq Mikrokosmos Music Box Fic Exchange inspired by the song Please
A/N: Thank you to @lo1k-diamonds & @peachiilovesot7 for their unfailing beta services!
Jimin and Taehyung have hated each other for years, and it's time they do something about it in a method that’s...a bit unorthodox to say the least
or: enemies with benefits au except they're both captains of the same soccer team
(Explicit ♥ high school soccer au ♥ enemies to lovers ♥ smut, fluff, angst)
🐻🐥
Collar
“I want you to get them all out of here.” Taehyung ordered in his deep, gravely voice, looking down at Jimin who was still pressed against the wall.
“Why?” Jimin asked, anticipation dripping from his words.
“To teach you a lesson on not letting people touch what’s mine.”
Or: Jimin adopts an intimating, unruly, and absolutely drop dead gorgeous hybrid on impulse and gets much more than he bargained for
(Explicit ♥ modern/hybrid au ♥ hybrid Taehyung, human Jimin ♥ smut, fluff, angst)
🐻🐥
Honeymoon in Hawaii
What else happened on the night Jimin and Taehyung went stargazing in Hawaii?
(Explicit ♥ canon au ♥ best friends to lovers ♥ smut, fluff, angst)
🐻🐥
Enigma
Alpha prince Jimin has agreed to an arranged marriage in order to expand the Park empire with another, but only if he gets to select the prince he will wed.
Insert Kim Taehyung—a stunning beta prince with a gentle demeanor who doesn’t talk much...or at all. Jimin instantly chooses him for his beauty and compliance, but not everything is always as it appears to be.
Enigma: the Alpha of Alphas and is believed to be a myth because of their rarity. They are extremely dangerous and can either lead a society to flourish or to damnation.
(Explicit ♥ omegaverse royalty au ♥ enigma prince Taehyung, alpha prince Jimin ♥ enemies to lovers ♥ smut, fluff, angst)
🐻🐥
It's raining panties
A pair of panties floats from Taehyung’s new neighbor's open window and onto his flowers, so he goes to return them
What Taehyung expected: a briefly awkward but friendly introduction with the woman living next door as he gave the panties back to her
What he got: a stunning man opening the door, blushing bright red and snatching the panties away without a word of explanation
What he's left with: sleepless nights over why the man has the panties, and what he looks like wearing them
(Explicit ♥ modern omegaverse au ♥ alpha Taehyung, omega Jimin ♥ neighbors to lovers ♥ smut, fluff, angst)
🐻🐥
But...he's a cheerleader!
Kim Taehyung: He’s hot, he’s funny, he’s charming, and he’s the only male cheerleader on the squad. Everybody loves Taehyung.
Park Jimin: He’s hot, he’s athletic, he’s disciplined, and he’s strict when it comes to gender roles. Jimin hates Taehyung.
(Explicit ♥ college/university au ♥ cheerleader Taehyung, jock Jimin ♥ enemies to lovers ♥ smut, fluff, angst)
🐻🐥
Sk8er boi
Taehyung was a punk, Jimin did ballet, what more can I say?
He wanted him, and Jimin would never tell, but secretly he wanted Taehyung as well
But all of Jimin’s friends stuck up their nose. And they had a problem with Taehyung’s baggy clothes
Taehyung was a skater boy. Jimin almost said, “See ya later boy.” Emphasis on ~almost~
(Explicit ♥ high school au ♥ skater Taehyung, ballerino Jimin ♥ first loves ♥ smut, fluff, angst)
🐻🐥
One of your girls
Taehyung walks into a Halloween party, and immediately has his eyes set on the hot piece of ass in a Hooter's costume.
He has no idea that said hot piece of ass is a dude, but that won't stop him from a good time.
(Explicit ♥ college/university au ♥ jock Taehyung, cheerleader Jimin ♥ one night stands to fwb's to lovers ♥ smut, fluff, slight angst)
It’d been almost a week, yet Jimin’s words lingered continuously through your mind, no matter how much you tried to brush them aside. You kept your distance, donning the same stoic, controlled demeanor ingrained in you since childhood.
In a grand meeting room, you sit amidst the advisors, watching their expressions shift from measured interest to faint skepticism, as you present your proposal for a new trade route that could bolster the struggling kingdom. The air thickens with expectation, and you suspect the underlying tension as they exchange glances.
When you finish, the head advisor waves his hand dismissively, his tone edged with condescension as he addresses you. “That would be reckless. We cannot risk the stability we have,” he argued, casting doubt on the feasibility of your plan without further consideration.
You glanced around at the other advisors and they seemed to agree with simple head nods and a rush of frustration surged through you. This idea wasn’t just any proposal; it was a genuine opportunity for Silla's recovery, a chance to prove to your father that your words mattered – you could control this kingdom and make it prosperous.
Seated at the head of the table, Jimin leaned forward, a spark of determination igniting in his gaze. “I believe we should consider this idea more seriously,” he interjected, his voice steady. “To move forward as a kingdom, we must embrace innovation rather than fear change. I will personally oversee the discussions on this trade route.”
A wave of satisfaction rises within you, tempered only by the advisors’ begrudging nods and the shuffled rustling of their papers. Frustration simmered beneath your calm exterior and you crossed your arms tightly over your chest as if to hold your true feelings in. Once the meeting concluded and the advisors filed out, you stood in place, the weight of their dismissive attitudes igniting anger that was difficult to shake.
You walked to the window overlooking the palace grounds, your arms wrapped tightly around yourself as if to shield against the sting of rejection. The gardens stretched out below, a vibrant scene filled with life that felt entirely disconnected from the turmoil within you.
“Your Highness?” Jimin’s voice broke through your reverie, soft and cautious. He approached you, concern etched across his features. “Are you alright?”
“No,” you admitted, turning to face him, frustration bubbling over. “I’m tired of being ignored. My ideas… they could truly help Silla, but all they see is the crown I wear.”
Jimin stepped closer, his eyes locking onto yours with a warmth that made your heart flutter. “You’re more than a crown; you’re a voice for the people of this kingdom. Your ideas are valuable, and I promise to support them.”
His words wrapped around you like a soothing balm, calming the storm of emotions inside. Before you realized it, he was close enough for you to feel the warmth radiating from him. At that moment, the walls you had built began to crumble. You leaned into him, and lips brushed lightly against yours – an accidental touch, but one that sparked a feeling filled with promise and understanding, as though a silent confession had passed between you two.
Just as quickly as the tenderness bloomed, you pulled back, instinctively shutting down your emotions. “I can’t… I can’t let this happen,” you murmured, stepping away, your heart racing as you distanced yourself again.
“Why not?” Jimin asked, his brow furrowing in confusion and concern. He took a step closer, his voice low and sincere. “What’s holding you back?”
You felt the weight of his gaze on you, a mixture of warmth and inquiry that made your heart flutter and ache. “We should wait until the night of consummation,” you said quickly, grasping at the flimsy excuse. “It’s tradition.”
His expression softened, but the worry remained. “Is it truly just about tradition? Or is there something more?”
You averted your gaze, unable to meet his eyes. “I… I just think it’s best,” you stammered, the unease twisting in your stomach.
“Best for whom?” he pressed gently, stepping even closer, his presence a comforting yet dangerous temptation. “You deserve to be happy too. I want to understand what you’re feeling.”
“Jimin, please,” you said, your voice trembling slightly as you took another step back, creating more distance. “We have our duties, our expectations. I can’t let this… whatever it is… interfere.”
He watched you, concern etched across his face. “I don’t want to interfere. I want to support you. You don’t have to hide from me.”
“Maybe it’s safer if I do,” you replied, feeling the heat of unshed tears threatening to spill over. You turned away from him, staring out at the palace grounds, your heart aching with the weight of your conflicting emotions.
As you walked away, you fought to keep your composure, knowing that with each step, you were retreating into the walls you had so carefully built around your heart. You knew you had to play your part, to make him believe in your love while waging a silent war against your feelings.
A few days later, Jimin hesitantly asked, “Would you like to take a walk through the palace gardens with me? The blooms are particularly stunning this time of year.”
You nodded, feeling a twinge of apprehension, and scurried ahead of him to maintain the physical distance you craved. He quickly matched your pace, his footsteps steady beside you as you both walked in silence, the vibrant garden surrounding you.
As you moved through the colorful blooms, you found it increasingly difficult to focus on the beauty around you. Instead, your mind was a battlefield, caught between the memory of the kiss you had shared and the necessity of keeping him at arm's length.
“Do you ever imagine what life would’ve been like without these responsibilities?”
The question struck a chord, though you kept your gaze forward, forcing yourself to remain detached.
“I never had the luxury to imagine such things,” you replied, your tone measured.
But he wasn’t deterred. “That doesn’t mean you’ve never thought about it.”
You hesitated. His quiet persistence unnerved you, and for a moment, the lie you’d prepared clung to the tip of your tongue. But the sincerity in his eyes disarmed you.
“Perhaps,” you admitted, though the word felt foreign leaving your lips. “But this is the path we were given. It’s not a matter of choice.”
Jimin turned, his expression gentle but unyielding. “Doesn’t mean we can’t make something more of it.”
Again, his words stirred a dangerous thought inside you, one you had been too afraid to acknowledge. You reminded yourself of your father’s expectations and the mission that had brought you to this place, fighting to suppress the warmth of his presence that threatened to break through your carefully constructed walls.
The next morning, you found a quiet corner in the grand library, nestled among the towering shelves filled with knowledge accumulated over centuries. In the warm afternoon light, you sat with a book open on your lap, but your thoughts drifted away from its pages, preoccupied with the web of duty and deception you’d been woven into.
Jimin’s soft footsteps broke the silence, and you glanced up to find him standing nearby, a book under his arm. His presence was becoming so familiar that it was both comforting and unsettling.
“I thought you might be here,” he said, settling beside you with a gentle smile. “I wanted to share this with you. It’s a fascinating history of former rulers and the mistakes they made.” He opened the book to a passage and handed it to you. “I find it humbling, learning about what they got wrong. It feels… grounding, I guess. Helps remind me of what not to repeat.”
You glanced down at the open pages, half reading, but your mind was elsewhere, tangled in the tension between your duty to your father and the quiet pull of Jimin’s earnestness. As he continued reading, his calm voice filling the space, you felt your carefully constructed defenses weakening. The choices ahead seemed heavier by the day, and the thought of fulfilling your mission left a bitter taste in your mouth.
Late that afternoon, you walked with Jimin through the palace gardens, reflecting on the meeting from earlier in the morning that had not gone as planned for either of you.
His advisors were pushing to trade their resources to the West, but the trade lines were unestablished, and it was dangerous to do so without having maintained and protected routes. While you and Jimin had different reasons to oppose this plan, you were still on the same side against the advisors.
One in particular appeared to want to get under your skin. “You may oversee the kingdom from your throne, but we know what is best for the people and this nation, and trade will bring revenue. You’ve never even been into the city, have you? I wouldn’t advise it until you can understand it from a commoner’s point of view. Just stick to what you know.”
It had been a hard meeting to sit through, feeling as if they viewed you as a little girl playing as the future Queen, and the fresh air helped you let go of your animosity. As the sky began to turn shades of orange and pink, he turned to you with a rare smile.
“You should smile more,” he said, his tone teasing but warm.
You raised an eyebrow. “And why is that?”
“Because it suits you,” he replied, his smile softening as his eyes held yours. “And remember, I’m on your side. I’ll support you as long as you support me.”
Your heart fluttered, and you quickly turned away, feeling the heat rise to your cheeks. Despite yourself, you smiled. The rest of the walk continued in silence, stolen glances and blushing cheeks the only form of communication.
Time passed and late afternoon became early evening, as you entered the dining hall and sat together to share a quiet meal. “Do you ever feel like we’re trapped?” he asked, his voice low as if confessing a secret.
You glanced around at the unaware staff before looking at him, surprised by the vulnerability in his tone. “Trapped?”
“In all of this,” he gestured around him. “The expectations, the duties… sometimes I feel like there’s no room for us to be… just us.”
You studied him for a moment, then nodded. “I know the feeling,” you admitted, your voice barely above a whisper.
His eyes softened, and you felt a quiet understanding pass between you—an unspoken agreement that you both wished to become more than what the world expected of you, rather than your fathers.
As the cooler days of mid-autumn arrived, you met Jimin in the palace garden before heading to your separate sleeping chambers. The air was crisp, carrying the faint scent of fallen leaves, and the stars shone brightly above. Beneath the ancient willow tree, a new sense of closeness settled between you, unspoken yet undeniable. You could feel the pull of the moment, the weight of all that had been building between you, and in the quiet stillness of the night, you grew fearful—not of your mission or even of him, but of the dangerous way your feelings seemed to deepen.
The gentle whisper of an autumn breeze was the only sound between you. Jimin turned to you with a glint of mischief in his eyes. His hand gently brushed yours, sending a familiar warmth through your skin.
"Your Highness," he whispered, his voice low and intimate, "there’s somewhere I want to take you. Somewhere secret, outside the palace walls." His words hung in the air, a tantalizing offer of freedom.
For a moment, the weight of your duty seemed to lift, and all that mattered was the thrill of escaping—just the two of you, far from the watchful eyes of the court. The temptation to leave behind the confines of your world, if only for a night, tugged at your heart. Without waiting for your answer, Jimin’s hand tightened slightly around yours, his smile daring you to follow him into the unknown.
The palace seemed to grow smaller behind you, its towering spires fading into the distance as you and Jimin made your way into the heart of the town. Dressed in simple cloaks, with your faces hidden beneath the hoods, you moved quietly through the cobbled streets, unnoticed by the guards or the townspeople. The cool night air carried the sounds of life—laughter, music, and the murmur of conversation spilling out from taverns and homes.
Your heart raced, not from fear, but from excitement. It had been so long since you ventured out like this—since you had walked the streets anonymously, mingling among people you were destined to rule. Tonight, however, you were not alone. Jimin walked beside you, his presence a constant reminder of the dangerous feelings you were struggling to contain.
"This way," Jimin whispered, gesturing toward a narrow alleyway that led to the market square. You followed him on a path similar to the one that leads to the city outside of your palace, winding through shadowed corners and past brightly lit stalls. The smells of fresh bread, roasted meats, and sweet pastries filled the air as you approached the market, bustling even at this late hour.
As you stepped into the square, you felt a sense of freedom wash over you, as though the weight of your titles had momentarily lifted. You were no longer the former Princess of Goguryeo, and he was no longer Prince Jimin of Silla. Here, among the commoners, you were simply two people hidden from the eyes of the world.
Jimin paused near a stall selling trinkets and handcrafted jewelry. He picked up a delicate silver bracelet, turning it over in his hands, admiring the craftsmanship, before setting it back down. You watched him, curious.
"Why did you bring me here?" you asked quietly.
He smiled, his eyes glinting beneath his hood. "I wanted you to see what I see when I come here. I come to places like this often when I'm alone."
You frowned, surprised. "You come here? Into the town? Why?"
Jimin’s gaze drifted over the market, watching as a young boy chased after his sister, their laughter bright in the night air. A group of artisans haggled with a merchant over the price of goods, their gestures animated and full of life.
"I’ve done this for years," he said softly, turning to face you. "I sneak out of the palace whenever I can. I need to see it all for myself—the real kingdom, not just the one we rule from up there," he said, nodding in the direction of the distant palace. "My father believes in ruling from a throne, in making decisions that serve his ambitions. But how can you lead people if you don't know them? If you've never walked in their shoes, feel what they’ve felt?"
His words struck a chord deep within you. It was the same reason you had begun sneaking into town, the same reason you had disguised yourself to live, even for a few moments, among your people. In the palace, everything was cold and calculated, built on strategies and alliances, but here—here, life was vibrant and real. The people who would live under your rule weren’t just nameless figures in a distant province. They were right here, living, breathing, struggling, and thriving. How could you rule them without understanding their lives?
Jimin continued, his voice filled with passion. "I want to be a different kind of ruler. I don’t want to sit on a throne and dictate from a distance. I want to know these people. I want them to trust me, not fear me. That’s why I come here, why I talk to them, learn from them. How can I build a kingdom of peace if I don’t understand the ones who live in it?"
You stared at him, your heart pounding as you absorbed his words. His vision for the future, his belief in ruling through understanding rather than power, was the same vision you had kept hidden for so long. He was speaking the truth you had never dared to voice.
"I did the same," you admitted softly, your voice barely a whisper. "I visited the city outside of my palace for years, too. Disguised, hidden. I listened to their stories and watched them live their lives. It’s the only place where I felt..." You trailed off, unsure if you should reveal too much.
Jimin's eyes searching yours, a flicker of understanding crossing his face. "Where you felt free?" he finished gently.
You nodded, the confession hanging between you like a fragile secret. In this moment, you felt more connected to him than you had to anyone in your life. He understood—he knew what it meant to live between two worlds, to be bound by duty yet long for something more. The affection you had been fighting to suppress surged in your chest, undeniable and terrifying. How could you resist someone who shared your secret hopes and dreams? How could you continue to follow your father’s plan when Jimin stood beside you, offering a glimpse of the life you had always wanted?
Jimin’s gaze softened as he looked at you, his voice barely audible over the bustling market. "We’re not so different, you and I."
His words made your heart ache with confusion. You were different. He was a dreamer, a man who believed in peace and love, while you were a weapon forged for conquest, conditioned to betray and destroy. And yet, his presence stirred something deep inside you, a longing for the future you had never thought possible—a future with him.
"Jimin," you began, your voice trembling slightly, "what if..." But you stopped yourself, unsure of what you were about to say or the dangerous path your heart was leading you down.
He turned toward you, stepping closer, his eyes locking with yours. "What if what?"
You swallowed, the words stuck in your throat. What if I can’t do it? What if I can’t betray you? What if I want more than power? But you said nothing, your silence betraying the battle raging within you.
Jimin reached out, his fingers brushing lightly against your hand. It was a small gesture, barely a touch, but it sent a shock through you. "You don’t have to fight this alone," he said softly. "I’m struggling just as you are. I’ve grown to care deeply for a woman who doesn’t appear to feel the same. Eventually, maybe you will, or we’ll make this work another way."
Another way. The words were so simple, yet they carried the weight of a world you had longed for. But the shadows of your father’s command still loomed, and you knew that the choice ahead of you was far from easy.
As you stood there, surrounded by the life and laughter of the market, your heart warred with your duty, and for the first time, you truly weren’t sure which would win.
Autumn neared it’s end and winter was fast approaching, which seemed to be all too soon. Beneath the ancient willow tree, you found yourselves standing in silence, but it wasn’t the comforting quiet it usually was. It was laden with unspoken truths, words neither of you dared to voice.
Jimin finally broke the stillness, his tone gentle but direct. “I feel there’s something you’re not telling me.”
Your breath hitched, and you fought to keep your expression neutral. Trust was a luxury you couldn’t afford, not with him.
“I’ve never asked for more than you’re willing to share,” he continued softly, stepping closer, “but if you ever need to, I’m here.”
His patience, his understanding, only made the ache in your chest grow stronger. You had spent so long convincing yourself that feelings had no place in this equation. But now, standing under the stars with him, the weight of your choices felt unbearable.
“What if I can’t?” The question escaped before you could stop, a quiet plea you hadn’t intended to voice.
Jimin’s eyes softened, and his voice lowered. “Then we’ll face it together; whatever it is that weighs heavy on your mind, we’ll get through it. Together.”
For a moment, you let yourself believe him. You allowed the possibility of a different future to bloom—a future where you were free from the chains of duty, where you and Jimin could carve out a life beyond the reach of your father’s shadow.
But reality was swift to crush that fleeting hope. You had already set events into motion, and there was no escaping what was to come.
As the day faded into evening, the moon hung low in the sky, casting a soft silver glow over the palace gardens. You and Jimin had spent hours walking through the quiet paths, talking of everything and nothing, your footsteps light on the frosted, dew-kissed grass. In his presence, the weight of your titles and the impending decisions fade into the background.
At the edge of the gardens stood a small pavilion draped in flowering vines, its wooden beams worn smooth by time. A place of refuge, hidden away from the eyes of the palace. Jimin stopped there, his hand resting lightly on one of the posts as he turned to look at you. The warmth in his gaze was undeniable, and you felt your heart lurch in your chest.
"Your Highness," he said softly, your name lingering on his lips like a whispered secret.
You stepped closer, the tension between you palpable in the night air. You could feel it—this pull, this dangerous, magnetic force drawing you toward him. The rational part of your mind screamed for you to step back, to remember who you were and what you were meant to do. But your heart, already so entangled in this impossible bond, refused to listen.
"I don’t know how much longer I can do this," you whispered, your voice barely audible over the gentle rustling of the leaves. I can't pretend that I don’t feel anything.
Jimin’s eyes darkened, his gaze softening with an intensity that made your breath catch. He stepped closer, his fingers brushing against your hand, and it felt as though the entire world stopped around you. The cool night air suddenly felt warmer, the space between you shrinking with every passing second.
"You don’t have to fight it," Jimin murmured, his voice low and intimate.
Your heart raced as his hand slid up your arm, the gentle touch sending shivers through your body. You could feel his warmth, the nearness of his presence, and it made everything else—your duty, your father’s plans—fade into a distant, meaningless hum.
Jimin took your hand, intertwining your fingers, a delicate touch both tentative and certain, as if he, too, was afraid of crossing this invisible line between you but unable to stop himself. His thumb gently caressed the back of your hand, the simple gesture igniting a storm of emotions you had fought to suppress.
"Your Highness," he whispered again, his voice like a quiet plea. "I’ve tried to keep my distance, tried to be the person I’m supposed to be. But I can’t anymore. Not when you’re right here, within my grasp, to hold and feel your warmth, to kiss those lips I’ve been longing to taste."
His words hung in the air, heavy with the weight of what they meant. You knew, at this moment, you were teetering on the edge of something you couldn’t take back. But you were tired of pretending, tired of denying the connection between you.
"I’m not supposed to feel this way," you breathed, your voice trembling. The unspoken truth—the path your father had set you on—loomed at the back of your mind, but you kept it buried, hidden deep beneath the surface. You couldn’t bring yourself to admit it aloud.
Jimin’s gaze never wavered, his eyes full of understanding and something deeper—something that made your heart ache. He reached up, gently brushing a stray lock of hair from your face, his fingers softly grazing your skin. The tenderness of the gesture unraveled the last threads of your resolve.
"This is uncharted territory for both of us," he said gently, his voice steady with quiet conviction. "We may not know exactly how to navigate this, but here we are. While we had no choice in the beginning, love can grow between us in time—if we allow it."
You closed your eyes, letting his words sink in. His hand moved to cup your cheek, his thumb tracing the curve of your jaw. The warmth of his touch was like a balm to your troubled soul, and you leaned into it, craving the closeness, the comfort, the safety he seemed to offer.
When you opened your eyes, Jimin was closer than before, his face inches from yours. His breath mingled with yours, and you could see the way his gaze flickered down to your lips, the tension between you crackling like electricity.
You knew what was about to happen, and yet you couldn’t stop it. Didn’t want to stop it.
Slowly, carefully, as if giving you every chance to pull away, Jimin leaned in. His lips brushed yours in the softest of kisses, tentative and questioning as if he were waiting for permission to go further. But instead of pulling back, you pressed closer, deepening the kiss, the last of your resistance melting away.
The kiss was slow and gentle, yet filled with a longing that had been simmering beneath the surface for too long. Jimin’s hand moved to the small of your back, pulling you closer until there was no space left between you. Your hands found their way to his chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart beneath your fingers, grounding you in the moment.
Time stood still and it felt like just the two of you existed in the world—nothing else mattered. His lips were soft against yours, his touch tender yet filled with restrained passion. You felt the emotions you had tried to bury rising to the surface, spilling out in every breath, every touch. You knew you shouldn’t be there, shouldn’t be feeling any emotions, but for once, you didn’t care.
When you finally pulled away, your breaths mingled in the crisp night air, Jimin rested his forehead against yours. His hand remained on your waist, keeping you close, as if afraid to let go.
"You don’t have to choose between duty and your heart," he whispered, his voice rough with emotion. "We can find another way, Your Highness. Together."
Tears pricked at your eyes, the weight of his words crashing down on you. The choice before you felt impossible, and yet, in his arms, you dared to hope that maybe—just maybe—there was a different path. One where you didn’t have to follow your father’s path. One where you didn’t have to become the weapon he had forged you to be.
"I don’t know how," you admitted, your voice breaking. "I don’t know if I’m strong enough."
Jimin’s hand moved to your face, gently cupping your cheek as he looked into your eyes, his gaze filled with unwavering resolve. "You are. You’re stronger than you know. And I’ll be by your side when you feel you’re not strong enough, holding your hand every step of the way."
At that moment, you believed him. You believed in the possibility of a different future—one not defined by betrayal and bloodshed but by love and hope. But as the night stretched on, you knew the choice still loomed. The snow would fall soon, and with it, the decision that would shape the rest of your life.
But tonight, in Jimin’s embrace, you let yourself believe in the impossible, even if it was only for a little while longer.
Tonight is the night, the first snowfall, the night tradition dictated you consummate your marriage. As you stand before the mirror in your opulent chamber, the weight of your father’s command feels almost tangible. Your gown, embroidered with silver and sapphire, is exquisite, yet it barely masks the burden of the night ahead. The reflection staring back at you is a blend of regal beauty and concealed resolve.
The grand hall is awash with candlelight as you make your way to the chamber where Jimin awaits. His silhouette against the window is both imposing and oddly comforting. You step forward, your heart pounding with each measured stride.
“Your Highness,” Jimin says, turning to face you with a smile that seems both genuine and welcoming. “You look…stunning.” After giving you a once over, his dark eyes meet yours, and you’re struck by how open and sincere he appears.
“Thank you, Prince Jimin,” you reply, trying to keep your voice steady despite the storm inside you. You approach him – your every step a battle between duty and the burgeoning connection you feel.
The moonlight streamed into Jimin’s chambers, casting long, soft shadows across the room. It was the only light illuminating the space, giving everything a dreamlike quality. You and Jimin stood together in silence, the air between you thick with unspoken words and emotions that had simmered for so long.
“Is something troubling you?” he asked softly, his voice filled with concern.
You hesitated, caught between the demands of your duty and the connection growing between you. “I… I’m just nervous,” you admitted, your voice barely above a whisper.
Jimin took your hand in his, his touch warm and reassuring. “As am I,” he confessed, “I’ve imagined this moment since the day I first saw you. There’s no need to be afraid. We’ll explore this new intimacy together.”
He reached out, brushing a tender hand against your cheek, his touch sending a shiver through you – not from the cold, but from the weight of what was to come. The world outside his chambers seemed distant and insignificant, leaving only the two of you in this moment.
He drew you closer, gently resting his forehead against yours. The nearness was overwhelming yet soothing. His breath mingled with yours as your lips met in a slow and deliberate kiss, full of the emotions neither of you had dared speak aloud. His hands, gentle but insistent, found their way to your waist, pulling you closer, eliminating the space between you.
The kiss deepened, shifting into something raw and desperate – a culmination of the unspoken longing that had built between you for months. His lips were soft but hungry, as though he couldn’t get enough of you. And for the first time, you let yourself give in completely, allowing your walls to fall.
With one smooth motion, Jimin’s hand moved to release your hair from its pin, the metal clinking softly to the floor. His fingers combed through your curls, tender yet possessive, letting them cascade over your shoulders like a waterfall. His eyes, darkened with desire, followed your every movement as you slowly turned your back to him, heart racing. His hands found the laces of your corset, loosening them with agonizing slowness, the tension between you thickening with each tug.
As he removed it, your dress slid from your body, pooling at your feet. When you turned to face him again, his gaze roamed over you, as though memorizing every inch. His fingers grazed your skin, first your collarbone, then the delicate straps of your silk slip. Reverence mingled with his desire as he slid the material lower, exposing your breasts to the cool air and his hungry eyes.
Jimin’s lips were on you before you could take another breath, his mouth claiming your skin with fervor. He suckled at your nipple, the warmth of his breath and the soft pull of his lips sending a shiver down your spine. A low, guttural moan escaped him, vibrating against your skin and stirring something deep within you.
As he pushed the final silk layer lower, it slipped past your hips and fell to the floor, leaving you completely bare before him. You felt the heat of his gaze lingering on every inch of your exposed body, his desire palpable in the way his breath quickened.
He kissed his way back up to your lips, capturing them in a slow, heated kiss that left you breathless. His hands, rough yet tender, explored your body with a familiar intimacy, pulling you closer as though he couldn’t bear to let you go. His fingers fumbled with his clothing, but his lips rarely strayed from yours. Only when he reached for the hem of his shirt did he pull away, his eyes locking onto yours, full of promises unspoken but deeply understood.
He stripped away his shirt, revealing the taut muscles beneath his skin as he stepped closer. The air between you crackled with anticipation, each touch, each kiss, building a fire that had been smoldering for too long. As his hands returned to you, pressing your bodies together, the world seemed to shrink until only the two of you existed.
Jimin guided you to the bed, the cool silk sheets a contrast to the heat your bodies were creating. His hands traced every inch of your skin with reverence, as though committing you to memory. Your breaths intertwined as you surrendered to the moment, your heart racing, your mind lost to the intensity of it all. Each touch, each kiss, was a quiet confession of all that couldn’t be said aloud.
When he entered you, it was slow and deliberate; his movements filled with tenderness and restrained passion. You felt the depth of your connection in every moment, every motion—a bond that transcended duty, kingdom, and betrayal. For that time, there was no world outside this room, no looming shadows—only love, raw and unspoken.
As the two of you moved together, the intimacy became overwhelming. Jimin’s whispered breaths against your neck, the way his hands held you as if you were something precious—it was as if every touch, every kiss, was a silent declaration of all he felt for you.
When the moment finally reached its peak, the release came like a wave crashing over both of you, leaving you breathless and entwined, the sheets tangled around your legs as you clung to each other.
For a few moments, all was quiet. The only sound in the room was the gentle rise and fall of your breaths, the steady beat of Jimin’s heart against your chest.
The moonlight suddenly seemed to radiate brighter through the window, illuminating the room in a silvery glow. The reality of what you had done began to settle back over you. Lying there, entangled with him, the weight of your duty rushed back, heavy and suffocating.
Jimin’s arm lay draped across your waist, his breathing even and calm. He was unaware of the storm of conflict brewing inside you, the cold resolve that had returned to your mind despite the warmth of your body still pressed against his. Carefully, silently, you slipped from his embrace, your fingers finding the hilt of the dagger hidden beneath the pillow.
The metal felt cold in your hand as you stood, the moonlight bathing you in its pale glow. You felt its weight, the jagged, carved edges of the handle biting into your palm as you gripped it tightly. Your heart pounded in your chest, the echo of what you were supposed to do reverberating in your mind.
Jimin stirred slightly in his sleep, a soft sigh escaping his lips. You looked down at him, his face peaceful in the dim light, so unaware of the danger before him. You hesitated, the dagger heavy in your hand. This was the moment your father had prepared you for—the moment you were meant to secure your kingdom’s future through cold efficiency, as he had taught you. But standing there, the blade ready, something inside you wavered.
You felt the familiar tug of doubt, the quiet voice that had grown louder with every moment you’d spent with him. Could you do it? Could you kill the man who had shown you kindness, who had offered you a future filled with hope and possibility? The man who had just held you so tenderly in his arms?
Your hand trembled as you stood over him, dagger in hand, the weight of your father's command pressed down on you, but the pull of your heart was stronger. You looked down at Jimin—so peaceful, so unaware—and slowly, the cold resolve in your chest began to thaw. Your grip on the dagger loosened, and you quietly placed it back beneath the pillow. For tonight, you couldn’t be the weapon your father forged you to be.
Instead, you lay back down beside Jimin, his warmth enveloping you as you settled against him. His arm instinctively wrapped around your waist, pulling you close, as though even in his sleep he could feel the connection between you. You closed your eyes, breathing in the scent of him, allowing yourself—for just this one night—to give in to the love you’d tried so hard to deny. Tomorrow, you would have to face the consequences of your choices, but for now, in the soft moonlit silence of his chambers, you chose him.
The next morning, you rose early, slipping out of Jimin’s embrace before he woke. You dressed quietly, stealing one last glance at him before leaving his chambers. Stepping outside, the crisp morning air filled your lungs, a mix of excitement and dread about the future settling in your heart. Just as you began to gather your thoughts, a palace servant approached, bowing respectfully.
“Your Royal Highness, you have a visitor,” the servant announced.
“A visitor?” you asked, curiosity piqued. “Who is it?”
“It’s the Crown Prince, your brother,” the servant replied.
Your heart skipped; it felt like it’d been an eternity since you’d last seen your younger brother, and you nearly ran before asking, “Where is he?”
“He’s waiting in the garden, Your Highness. He requested to speak with you in private.”
Nodding, you followed the servant through the cold, hushed corridors of the palace until you reached the garden. The usual vibrant blooms lay dormant, replaced by a heavy layer of snow that blanketed the ground. The stark landscape felt ominous, and the quietness wrapped around you like a shroud as you spotted your brother seated on a stone bench, his expression a mixture of relief and concern.
“Brother!” you exclaimed, as you stood within inches of him. “What’s the matter?”
His eyes darted around to ensure no one else was listening before he leaned closer. “I couldn’t wait to tell you what I overheard, Your Highness,” he whispered urgently. “It’s about Father.”
Your heart raced at his words, and you nodded for him to continue.
“I heard him speaking to Lord Hwang in the war chamber,” he said, his voice trembling. “He was discussing you. Once you’d completed your task, he planned to have you arrested.”
“Arrested?” you echoed, confusion and fear coursing through you. “Why?”
“Because he intended for you to kill Prince Jimin,” your brother explained, his voice barely above a whisper. “After that, he planned to execute you. He believed your death would secure the trust between the Kim and Park dynasties.”
A chill washed over you, colder than the winter air, each word sending shockwaves through your body. Your father had plotted to use you as a pawn all along—an expendable piece in his game of power. He never intended for you to live. The moment you fulfilled your duty, you would be discarded, sacrificed for the sake of his ambition.
“I can’t believe this…” you murmured, the weight of betrayal nearly crushing you.
“Please, Your Highness, you must be careful,” he urged, grabbing your hands tightly. “You cannot go through with his plan. You have to warn Jimin.”
The walls of the garden seemed to close in around you as you shook off the shock and made your way back inside, determined to find him. There was no longer any doubt in your mind. You could not betray Jimin, and now you knew your father was more dangerous than you had ever imagined.
Finally, you rushed through the corridors until you found Jimin, alone in his chambers. His expression lit up the moment he saw you, but before he could speak, you closed the distance between you, taking his hands in yours.
“Jimin,” you said breathlessly, your voice trembling with urgency. “There’s something I need to tell you. I’ve been lying to you… about everything.”
His smile faltered, concern flooding his features. “What do you mean? What’s going on, Your Highness?”
You took a deep breath, your heart pounding. “My brother came to see me. He overheard my father speaking to his statesman about our marriage and what he planned to do after it was consummated.”
Jimin’s brow furrowed, his expression turning serious. “What did he hear?”
You swallowed hard, trying to steady your voice. “My father ordered me to kill you once our union was secure. He believed that by solidifying our kingdoms through your death, he could strengthen our alliance with the Silla nation. But that’s not all—after I did it, he intended to arrest me and execute me to prove his loyalty to your family.”
Jimin’s face went pale, his jaw tightening as he processed your words. “Your father… wanted you to kill me, and then he was going to arrest and execute you?”
You nodded, tears welling in your eyes. “I can’t believe he would do this to me… to us. My brother was horrified by what he heard. I came back as soon as I could because I realized I couldn’t go through with his plan. I don’t care about his expectations; I just… I can’t lose you. I won’t betray you.”
Jimin stared at you for a long moment, his eyes filled with disbelief, anger, and something softer. Slowly, he pulled you into his arms, holding you close, his chin resting on the top of your head.
“I’m so sorry,” you whispered, your voice breaking. “I never wanted to hurt you. I just… I didn’t know what else to do.”
Jimin’s arms tightened around you, his voice low but steady. “You didn’t betray me, my love. You came back. You told me the truth, and that means everything.”
Pulling back slightly, you searched his eyes for any sign of doubt or fear. All you saw was a quiet resolve, a determination that mirrored your own.
“We can’t stay here,” you said quietly. “If my father finds out I’ve returned to you… he’ll come for both of us.”
Jimin nodded, his expression hardening. “Then we need a plan. We can’t just run; it won’t work. We have to fake my death.”
Your heart raced at the thought, a mix of fear and hope swirling within you. “Fake your death? How do we even do that?”
Jimin’s face contorted as he thought. “We can stage an attack, one that looks real. We’ll make it seem like I’ve been killed. That way, your father won’t come after you immediately. We’ll have time to regroup and find allies.”
A flicker of hope ignited in your chest. “You think we can pull this off?”
Jimin’s lips curved into a determined smile. “I know we can. We just need to be clever and act quickly. We can gather some of my most trusted guards. They’ll help us create the illusion we need.”
But just as you began to feel the excitement of your plan taking shape, a guard burst into the room, his expression frantic. “Your Highness, you must come quickly! The King—he has fallen ill!”
The urgency of the news sent a wave of worry through you. Jimin’s expression darkened. “This could complicate things,” he said, his voice tense.
“Yes,” you agreed, feeling the weight of the situation settle over you. “We’ll need to delay our plan until we know more about his condition.”
“Let’s focus on ensuring my fathers recovery,” Jimin suggested, his resolve unshaken. “Once things are stable, we can move forward with our plan. But for now, we need to stay close to the palace and keep a low profile.”
You nodded, your heart heavy with uncertainty, but you were grateful for Jimin’s unwavering support. Together, you turned to face whatever challenges lay ahead, knowing that time was both your ally and your enemy.
