AHHHH So Jungkooks Behavior And Actions, It All Finally Makes Sense Now!! Im Not Surprised Its All The

AHHHH so jungkook’s behavior and actions, it all finally makes sense now!! i’m not surprised it’s all the king’s fault, that man is completely insane. 😖 omg that kiss jungkook and oc shared?? it was so electrifying!! and when he begged her to choose him i swear felt my heart break :(((( oc might love jimin but she enjoyed that kiss and she obviously feels something for jungkook so i’m really excited to know how this is going to turn out!! also i’m sooo glad they rescued jimin, i felt like crying every time i remembered where he was 😭 and oh my god let me go read part 4 right fricking now because that cliffhanger gave me goosebumps 🥹🥹

Fallen Arrangement || pt.3

-> As the daughter of a king, your destiny has always been to take over the throne when you become of age. You just didn't expect your father to give you the throne so soon. And you definitely didn't expect it to come with a husband.

Pairings: prince!jungkook x princess!reader, village boy!jimin x princess!reader

Genre/au: royal!au, angst, fluff, smut, drama, coming of age, forbidden romance, fake dating!au, strangers to lovers, arranged marriage!au, every over done Kdrama shit cliché you can think of but in fanfic form tbh

Wc: 22K

Warnings: Jimin is still in prison definitely traumatized and definitely injured, blood, OC is still crying a lot, the king is actually mentally insane, threats of murder and suicide, more lying and manipulation, cursing, Jungkook has a panic attack

a/n: thank you everyone for your patience while I deal with some irl stuff and worked on getting this part finished, I've been really busy so thanks for understanding 💕 This part is such a wild roller coaster, I'm just saying please prepare yourself. A lot happens.

If you are 18+ and would like to be added, feel free to comment, reblog, or send an ask or dm to be added to the taglist!! 💜

You stand there completely frozen for what seems like hours. Your father and Jungkook haven't said anything else for at least ten minutes, but even if they did you weren't sure you'd be able to hear them. All of you is numb to your surroundings.

"If I marry Jungkook," you swallow harshly, "you'll release Jimin from prison?"

"That's about it," your father chimes, giving Jungkook a nudge on the arm and wink just to stir the sickness in your stomach. When did the two of them become such good pals?

You lift your chin. "And if I refuse?"

"Jimin is hanged for his crime," your father easily replies.

Immediately your knees buckle beneath your weight and you land on all fours. Jungkook's arm enters the corner of your sight for a moment before he's pulled back by the large hand of your father, keeping the prince from assisting your frazzled and panicked state.

Just the thought of Jimin being...you could never live with yourself.

"If Jimin dies," you slowly push back to your knees, placing both hands softly on your thighs. "I die too."

"Whoa!" Jungkook springs forward, shoving your father's arms away to kneel on the ground beside you. "You can't, th-that's ridiculous. Jimin won't die, so there's no need for such drastic action. Are you listening to me? Nobody is dying."

"I agree, it's absolutely ridiculous," your father scoffs. "But my daughter knows best. I'm completely serious when I say I will end that village boy's life."

"Then you end your daughter's life too," you declare with a straight face.

Jungkook studies both you and your father in this moment, head spinning with the threats being made and the possibility of losing this arrangement for real.

Even worse…losing you. What kind of sick family dynamic is this? What exactly is he trying to marry into?

"It may not be my place but don't you think that's a little too far, Your Majesty?" Jungkook never noticed the lack of focus in the king's eyes before, like he's not really all here, but now that he's noticed it, the prince can't unsee the lack of rationality in your father's expression. For the first time since he arrived, Jungkook sees just how eerie and mentally insane this man is.

The king thinks for a moment. "You're right, Prince Jeon."

Jungkook sighs in relief and pulls you into his arms, cradling your head into his chest where you can feel he's physically trembling.

"It's not your place."

Before he can react, two massive guards grab Jungkook by the arms and rip him away from you. The prince puts up a decent fight

"Hey! Wait a second! This was never the plan!"

They drag him out the throne room doors, and the last thing you hear is Jungkook shouting your name in one last desperate cry.

The king sighs, "I don't want to have to do this but you're leaving me no choice. I will keep you under tight surveillance from morning to evening and from evening to morning. Constantly. If that's what it takes. You think your life is claustrophobic? Maintained? Controlled? That's nothing compared to the lengths I will go to keep you alive."

You slowly stand on unstable legs. You know what you have to do. Once the tears start to slow down, and you can breathe again, you approach your father, invading his personal space and consequently his right to rule over you.

"You may be my father but you don't have the right to make decisions about my life."

"What about Jimin? What gives you the right to make a decision about his life? I am his king and he is my subject, as well as my employee. If anyone has a the authority to determine his fate, it's me. Not you." He places both hands on your shoulders, basking in his height over you. "There are things at work which you don't understand, so I need you to trust me."

His words hit you like a train, similar to the ones Jungkook has been repeating to you over and over. It's always trust me about this and trust me about that, no one ever tells you anything. Exactly what is going on here!?

"If you make any move that would make me think you're not holding up your end of the deal, I will have Jimin executed immediately. Understand?"

"I never agree to your terms."

"Understand?" he repeats, fingers tightening around your shoulders, squeezing to an uncomfortable extent.

"I understand," you lie.

The king pats your arms with a happy grin and inconspicuous chuckle, "Good! I'm glad to hear you're seeing things my way."

"Am I dismissed?" you ask flatly as soon as your body is free again.

"Yes, you may leave. Thank you for your time, Your Highness."

You slowly turn and exit the throne room, the eyes of every guard on the back of your head as you make your way down the hall. They're all watching you know, probably reporting your every move back to the king. Whether you trip, sneeze, or blink. Your father will know about it from now on.

Still, you know where you need to go. You're breaking Jimin out of prison one way or another.

::

The dungeon is somehow even more dark, smelly, and wet than it was before. The atmosphere makes you sick to your stomach.

You grab one of the torches off the wall and head towards the back of the prison, tiptoeing down the stairs to where Jimin is, taking your time so you don't fall after sneaking past a very irresponsible, sleeping guard.

When you reach the bottom, you place the torch on the wall, letting its light illuminate the hellish room just enough to be able to see a small figure slumped in the corner, back arching over to protect his stomach and holding himself in obvious pain.

"Jimin!" You run to him, practically skidding across the stone ground.

The boy gasps, frantically scrambling to try and get away from you. He holds out grimy hands in front of him blocking your advances and cowering further into the wall.

"It's me," you choke with a whisper. "I'm not going to hurt you. Jimin?"

He slowly peaks above his fingers. There's an unfamiliarity in his eyes, as if he doesn't recognize the person in front of him. He stares at you for a while, making count of your blurry eyes and heartbroken expression. But he doesn't make any move to suggest he even knows who you are. He just sits there, shaking and hiding.

Oh god, you can't help but cry on your knees in front of him.

He blinks. "___? What are you doing here?"

You lift your head. "I had to see you. You…know who I am, don't you?"

"Of course, but," Jimin shakes his head and pushes you away with little strength, barely enough to nudge you, "you have to get out of here. Or they'll catch you too."

You refuse to leave, scooting closer to him on your knees and taking his hand. His skin is ice cold.

"Actually, I have something to tell you. I have a plan to get you out of here."

"Whatever they want you to do, I'm not worth it. Don't do it," he coughs, looking into your eyes shining in the dark.

"You are worth it, Jimin. And you can't convince me otherwise."

He sighs and leans his head on the wall, too tired to fight back, too tired to do anything.

"I missed you," he whispers, eyes shutting slowly.

If only you weren't royalty, if only the two of you had to run away before all of this, before Jungkook showed up, before you got roped into a forced marriage. If only you had taken that boat, the two of you might be sitting on a grassy, green hill overlooking a vast, colorful sky. But all your decisions and your hesitations led you here, to this hell. And it's not like you could have known or controlled the outcome, but you can't help the guilt that's eating you from the inside out when you look at him.

"I miss you too, Jimin."

You don't know if it's okay to kiss him after everything that has happened, but you so desperately want to gently press your lips against his again.

Carefully, you crawl around him so you can pull him into your lap, allowing him to rest against you. You tilt your head towards his and taste his lips for the first time in too long, I'm all their plump, cracked and bleeding glory.

Jimin obviously missed kissing you too. He instantly relaxes to the feeling of your lips, molding them to fit yours perfectly.

You both sigh together, warm breaths mixing in the chill, damp air of the dungeon. You run your fingers into his hair, softly and lovingly, each stroke assuring him that he's okay as long as you're here. You're going to watch over him, and you're going to get him out of this place if it's the last thing you do. Every fiber of your being belongs to this man and he belongs to you.

He wants to pull you closer but pulls back instead, grunting in pain.

"Jimin! I'm so sorry! Where does it hurt?"

"It's okay," he grunts again and clenches his side. His head falls into your lap, face towards your tummy, and he buries himself in the soft material of your dress, the comforting scent of your person. "Thank you for coming to see me."

Your hand returns to its place, coming through the tangled, crusty threads of his hair. He curls his knees into himself and, perhaps you weren't supposed to notice, but you can feel I'm crying against your tummy.

You start to shake, and can barely keep yourself from breaking down right then and there. Your fingers trace one of the scars on his chest and he hisses at your cold fingers dragging over his skin, "I never meant for..."

Jimin manages a smile and looks up at you, nose running and eyes red in the light of the torch on the wall. "I know you didn't. I didn't either. But it did, and now we have to accept what that means."

"No, Jimin, I'm not accepting anything that means you continue to get hurt because of me."

Jimin reaches up and places one hand on your cheek and you lean into it, feeling the coolness of his hand on your skin.

"Just do what you have to do. And don't worry about me. I don't want you to get hurt." His hand drops and you open your eyes to see him falling asleep on your lap.

Even after all this time. Even after everything that has happened to Jimin because of you. He doesn't want you to get hurt. How? You don't even know if you trust yourself, but if someone as wonderful as Park Jimin says he believes in you, then you can't quit now.

You fall over yourself, cupping his cheeks to hold his head in place so your lips can come back together for a brief kiss, just enough to instill a sense of calmness in his bones, just enough to successfully send him into a much needed sleep.

Jimin sighs when you pull away, rolling into you once again and cuddling impossibly close to your warmth and comfort. You just want to hold him somewhere lighter, somewhere softer.

Fuck that.

You want all of him. His present, his future, his empty pockets, his indecisiveness, his kindness, his worldview, to the very end wherever and whenever that may be. And you want him to hold you too.

"Jimin?"

"Hm."

"I'm going to get you out of here. And then," you swallow, "let's run–"

You're interrupted by loud footsteps stomping above you and rusty door being unlocked.

You look up to the ceiling with a chilling gasp, "What is that?"

Jimin pushes you away, sitting up suddenly and crouching back into his corner. "Run," he urges you. "Run! Now! And don't let them see you."

You nod as Jimin gives your hand one last squeeze. Then you grab the torch off the wall and stumble your way up the dark stairs. The footsteps are coming from the front of the prison, so you run farther towards the back.

Turning the corner and bending down to the ground, you successfully hide from the view of the nasty visitors. You peak around the corner and watch as three large men make their way down the darkened staircase...towards Jimin.

The world goes blurry, everything discombobulated and sickening. As soon as the guards are out of view, you both upstairs and throw yourself to the nearest bathroom. An hour later you continue to gag, but there's nothing left in your stomach to throw up.

::

Your face actually hurts when you finally manage to cry yourself to sleep. All your dreams are full of him, the times you spent in the open, his crushed body in your lap.

And always lurking in the background is a villain, although you can't make out their features. They're large, eyes blackened out, with a crown of spikes on their head. They threaten you mercilessly, causing your subconscious to wake itself in startle.

You shoot up in bed with a gasp, the morning sun peeking through your window as if it's a good morning. Slowly, you pull yourself out of bed and walk to the window, taking a deep breath of the fresh air.

There are people already working in the Garden. A ribbon and colorful string hung in the trees. Even more lights have been set up across the grass, making a pathway of sorts to a big stage. You could make a few guesses as to what it is for, but the first thing that comes to mind is the public date you agreed to attend with Jungkook.

After everything that's happened since then, you're not sure if you should.

Your eyes travel to the same place you had seen Jimin working before, choking when you spot Jungkook with his hand in the air, pointing to where he wants things to go, directing servants and villagers.

Oh, how he makes your blood boil. You can't stand to see his face. His stupid, arrogant, beautiful face. Yes, beautiful. You hate him but you're not blind.

You turn away from the window and cross your arms with a huff while your mind travels back to the moment in the prison, to the moment he kissed you.

So passionate, but it felt so wrong. It kills you to think that only a few days ago, you wouldn't have minded if he kissed you. In the closet. In the kitchen. At the stable. But now after everything he did to Jimin, you can't stand to think about it. It makes you physically sick.

You shiver and rub your lips with the back of your hand. Somehow that's supposed to help.

You wish Jungkook had never left his stupid country to come here in the first place. This whole arrangement is all around wrong in your opinion anyway. Arranged marriages may still be considered normal in the eyes of the older generation, but personally, you don't see the benefit of marrying someone you don't love.

The bathroom door is open so you can see a tub filled with hot water waiting inside. Your skin itches to bathe. Being locked up in that cell did not agree with your lavishly treated skin. Damn, punishments for princesses are rough.

You walk across the floor, trying to act like you don't want it, but your eyes wander, always landing on that glorious tub of water.

As soon as you enter the bathroom, you close and lock the door, as if you have to hide the fact that you're going to bathe in your own tub. Your bathrobe slips off your shoulders and onto the white tile.

You stand there. Naked, just staring at the warm, clean, beautiful bathtub.

You lift your foot and dip it in the water, an instant shiver of guilt partnered with an instant sigh of relief escapes you as you're sinking the rest of your body in the tub.

Thank god for Mrs. Barnes for always having a hot bath ready when you need it.

Your hands caress your skin as you wash yourself, making sure to clean the few scratches and bruises across your body extra well.

The water has turned almost black by the time you climb out and wrap a towel around yourself. You walk out of the bathroom and go to your closet to pick a green dress that reaches the middle of your thighs with straps that hang off your shoulders. You may look like a princess again but you don't feel like one.

It's hard to act like the royalty you are when you feel like an intruder in your own home.

You would really love to walk through the garden again to spend some time and think things through. It looks beautiful out today, and while you most likely will be monitored from a distance, there's no time like the present to start mentally working out a plan to escape with Jimin.

You look out the window to make sure Jungkook has left before you make your way outside. He is the last person you want to see right now.

The south side of the garden is decorated to the max, so you quickly make your way to the arch where you used to walk all the time, towards the opposite side. The place where you actually feel the most like at home.

The last time you were here was when you and Jungkook made the "deal". Now you can't even imagine pretending to be in love with that man. But you'll consider doing it for a time in order to keep Jimin alive, that is until you can break him out of prison. If fake dating Jungkook is what it takes to free Jimin, then that is what you will have to be willing to do.

It's been a while since you could freely walk all alone with your thoughts like this. And you really needed to. So much has happened and there's been too little time to process.

But unfortunately, your processing time doesn't last long.

You haven't been walking for long when you spot the bench where you had sat with Jungkook last time you visited the section of the garden.

Quickly, you duck behind a pillar off to the side. Last time Jungkook had a book in his hand. This time he's got his head resting in his hand and he's dragging a stick through the dirt.

"Stupid. Stupid. Stupid!" You hear him scold himself. "She'll never trust you after this."

Jungkook leans back, closing his eyes and sighing.

"You've really screwed this up, Jungkook. She thinks you're a villain."

You listen carefully, taking in every word he speaks. Actually, it's kind of cute that he talks out loud to himself.

"Maybe she'll let you start over? Probably not." He slaps himself, almost causing you to giggle but you hold it in. "You just had to tell the king, didn't you? Well, you did and now your kingdom is doomed. Your parents are doomed," he says defeated, kicking a stone on the ground like a little kid. "Even Jimin is paying the price."

Your hand slips against the piller when you start leaning in to catch his mumbles. Jungkook lifts his head and looks your way, but you duck further behind the pillar before he can see you.

"Hello?" Jungkook stands. "Is someone there?"

Don't move. Don't breathe.

"Idiot," Jungkook sighs to himself and throws his stick away.

He slowly walks away with his head hung low and his hands in his pockets, kicking rocks and weeds on his way. You wait until you hear his footsteps fade into the distance before peaking around the corner again.

He's gone.

Why should you feel sorry for the guy? He's the one who got you thrown in prison and is about to kill Jimin. You are the one who should be scolding him, although him beating himself up isn't something you're about to correct. He should be the one being punished anyway.

You let out your breath and relax. "I wish none of this had ever happened."

Oh great, now you're talking to yourself.

With a shake of your head and rub of your eyes, you drag yourself to the bench, where Jungkook was sitting, and sit down to hang your head, feeling very depressed and conflicted about everything.

When you open your eyes to stare at the dirt, you see something Jungkook must have drawn with the stick he was carrying. It's faint and somewhat scratched over, but you can make it out pretty clearly.

"The end."

What the crap does that mean? This isn't a storybook, how dare he reduce your life to a fairy tale, a work of fiction with a beginning and predictable end! Your story is not doomed and neither is Jimin.

You blink and stare at the ground harder, making sure you didn't misreadm. Then you read it a hundred more times. You keep reading it over and over and over.

If Jungkook wants to give up, then that's on him. You're not bothered by him anyway. He doesn't concern you at this point.

This doesn't change anything.

You stand and walk away.

Jungkook still did all those horrible things.

You suddenly stop walking.

Didn't he?

Perhaps Jungkook was trying to tell you something, but you weren't listening. You were too caught up in your own thoughts and Jimin and all the crap. What was it that he said again? You scrunch your nose and try to remember exactly what it was, but all you can remember are flashes of dialogue.

"I didn't throw you in here."

"You don't understand what's happening here."

"We didn't agree on that!"

Well, that didn't help. Now you're even more confused. Of course, your father is evil and Jungkook willingly confided your secret affair in him, but something still doesn't add up.

Why did Jungkook feel the need to tell your father when the two of you were getting along so well? And what exactly did he tell your father, how much does your father know? What does he know exactly that you don't?

A million questions like these run through your head until they make you dizzy. You can't stand to be in the dark anymore, it's utterly ridiculous that you be the only one who's uninformed. Starting now, you're going to find out what the hell is actually happening here. You make a straight dash towards the end of the arch, towards construction.

There's Jungkook working with some people by the stage, but you know better than to ask a puppet for answers from the puppeteer. You want to hear the truth from your father.

"Your Highness?" Jungkook tries to catch your attention as you pass him. "Where are you going?"

"Throne room!" you answer in passing, shooting him a sly look, a dare to come follow you.

You burst through the doors of the throne room and they crash into the walls on either side.

"Father," you demand, completely disregarding whoever the crap that is in royal armor checking maps and documents in the corner, "I want the truth."

You approach his table with rage in your eyes and fists at your sides. The king just sits there and gives you a confused look. He waves for the armored guy to leave, waiting to speak until you're both alone.

"What do you mean, ___?"

"I mean," you spit at him, "why did Jungkook really come here? I know this arrangement has to be more than what you're telling me. What's all this really about?"

One wrong word from your father, and you might explode. That's how on edge you feel right now.

Your father sighs and stands to his feet. Then he makes his way around the table and places his hands on your shoulders trying to calm you down like the caring adult that he is.

"You're right, there is something you don't know. But I can't tell you what it is just yet. I need you to trust me on this one and believe me when I say that I just want what's best for you. Marrying Jungkook is what's best for you."

You shake your head, shaking off his hands too. "That's not good enough. I want to know why. Tell me why."

"I can't." your father whispers apologetically.

Stupid drama making you want to cry again, oh fuck this, you're so tired of crying.

The king wraps his arms around you and pulls you into his embrace. "I know it's frustrating, but please trust me, this is the only way."

He pets your head, something your mother used to do when you were little, but it doesn't make you feel any more secure or comfortable. There is only one man on this planet that can make you feel safe in a dark room. Jimin.

"Your Highness!" Jungkook calls as he runs into the room, but then halts when he sees your father holding you.

"Ah, Prince Jeon," your father calls him in, "can you please take ___ to get some water. I think she just needs some time to calm down."

The prince doesn't reply. He just gives the king a good stare down and goes to get you. Jungkook puts his arms around your shoulder and pulls you away from the scene.

"Come on," he says softly, "Let's get some food from the kitchen, okay?"

You shake your head, pushing yourself away to stand by yourself.

"I'm fine, thank you," you say, looking away. "I'll manage on my own."

With that, you walk past Jungkook out the door, leaving the prince with a painful stare in his eyes and an unsure settling in his stomach.

He watches you as you leave, wistful eyes and a frown on his lips. You hear him sigh as the doors close behind you, and that's when you lean against the wall just outside the door, breathing softly so as not to alert them of your lingering presence.

"Why did we do that?" You hear Jungkook ask. "Why can't we just tell her already?"

You hold your breath and press your ear against the door harder to hear better. This is the conversation you wanted to be a part of at the beginning.

"Let me ask you a question," Your father replies, "do you really think that ___ is falling for you?"

You freeze. What kind of a question is that? Why does it matter if you really like him or not?

"No, I don't think she is." The prince sounds so defeated. Is he really this broken hearted over an arranged marriage?

"Have you fallen for her?"

"Undoubtedly." That doesn't make much sense considering he offered to call it off in six months if you didn't fall for him.

"Do you think you can ever make her fall for you?"

Jungkook thinks for a moment before answering quietly, "...I don't know."

"Then I just have one more question," your father replies after a moment, "should we still be going through with this arrangement? You understand the repercussions if this arrangement is called off."

Jungkook doesn't answer right away. The first thing that comes to mind is the last conversation you had with your father. If this arrangement is called off then Jimin dies.

You realize in this moment how stupid you've acted. You need this arrangement. Jimin needs this arrangement. You should have been playing along this whole time rather than trying to go up against such a high power like the king. An indirect approach would have been so much more effective than crying over something you have no power over.

You need a new strategy, one that doesn't involve your father changing his mind or thinking that you're directly challenging him. He's much too unstable for that. You need to make your father believe that you're on board with all that he wants, that you're going along with his plans while your agenda plays out in the background. That's going to be your ticket to getting Jimin free and eventually getting out of this hellish country.

Just as you start to establish this plan in your head, you hear Jungkook's answer through the door.

"Maybe...we should call off the wedding."

::

You're stopped at the top of the stairs. After overhearing that conversation between Jungkook and your father, you realize the risk to Jimin's life is bigger than ever, so you're here, to break him out. May god condemn you to hell if you don't take action.

But now that you're here...you can't move an inch.

Light is fluttering off the walls as the torch in your hand shakes along with your grip, but you can't stop shaking. All of you. Shaking like a scared little kid in the face of a big scary beast.

Terrified.

Paralyzed.

Traumatized.

What you're about to do hits you full force now that you're here about to do it. If you fail, if you mess up, everything goes to shit. Jimin could die. You both could die.

Breaking him out won't be easy either. You suspect he won't be able to walk on his own so you'll have to carry him on your back. How long can you manage his weight before collapsing? People do amazing things once adrenaline starts pumping, so you suppose you'll rely on the heat of the moment to keep you going.

As for once you're out of the castle, you have an idea of where you can go but it's not without obstacles and uncertainty. But that's just something you'll have to face. It's now or never. You will get Jimin out of there if it kills you.

If only you could move your feet.

Your chest is tight. Your knees feel much too weak. Where did all your strength go in an instance? You just blankly stare down the pathway to Jimin's cell, mind blank and body stuck in its spot as if something has you nailed to the floor.

You're in such a trance, you don't register the hands pulling on your shoulder, until your back is pressed against the cold stone wall and all the air is literally knocked out of you.

"What do you think you're doing?" a low voice suddenly rings behind you.

You whip around with a gasp, only to come face to face with a large, grimy man with greasy hair and three chins. His clothes are torn and there's a broken shackle hiding bruises on his wrist. You recognize this man is a criminal broken free of his chains, now onto you for being somewhere you're obviously not meant to be.

He stands feet above your head, so much so it takes your eyes several seconds to scale all the way up his body.

"Hello there, Your Highness. Now, you're not supposed to be here, are you?"

Technically no one is but you're here anyway. Somewhere in the back of your mind, you subconsciously assumed your royal title would keep you safe if you got caught seeing as no one has dared stand up to you in the past.

But this gumbo clearly does not give a shit about your status as he threateningly backs you into the wall, looming over you with fiery eyes.

Before you even realize what's happened, the stranger has his hand on your neck, pinning you firmly against the wall with only your tiptoes grazing the floor. He squeezes his large hand around your throat, his fingers digging into your flesh.

You try to call for help, but you can't get enough air. The sudden need for oxygen immediately makes itself apparent to you as your cheeks are flushed with blood.

You grip his arm and try to pull it away, but you're already small compared to this guy and being weakened by your anxieties doesn't help your situation any.

"My my my, you're just a little princess aren't you? I wonder how daddy would feel knowing that his daughter has been sneaking down to the dungeon behind his back?"

You choke and gag, desperate to breathe, nails sink into his arm but it doesn't deter the man's grip on your neck.

"I've been down here for three years, innocent, all that time to plan my revenge." He leans in close to your face, an eerie whisper breathing toxic stenches into your nose. "Understand?"

The man throws you to the ground, allowing you just enough time to suck in a breath before he's coming after you again with personal vengeance.

"Your father will rue the day he ever touched my family!"

"I don't know what you're talking about!" you frantically gasp, scurrying across the floor to get away by any means possible.

"Lies!" the man shouts. "That bastard killed my daughter," he reaches for your ankle, "so I'm gonna kill his."

In an instance of self-defense, your foot kicks his hand away, crushing his finger in the process and he grunts in pain when he's knocked back slightly.

The suspense of his glare sends goosebumps across your skin. Despite growing up in the spotlight, you've never felt legitimately scared for your life. Until now.

"I'll give you anything you want," you bargain in desperation, "anything!"

The man grits his teeth and stomps after you, the stones beneath your ass shaking almost as much as you. More than just revenge in the man's eyes, there's regret and loss and depression glazed over his pupil so heavily you can't see any sense of reason or honor left.

"I want my daughter back," he growls.

His hand grips your ankle, this time overpowering your kicking and fighting with much effort. Your body is dragged across the stone, kicking and screaming for your actual life. There's no telling how he'll end you, but it's very clear this victim of your father's hand is going to kill you.

You're flipped on your stomach, nails breaking on the dirty rock as they skidd in perfect harmony with your shriek.

"Help me!!"

Thud!

All of sudden, his grip releases and he falls to the ground unconscious, eyes rolled back, head twitching.

You're not sure of much except that your ankle is free, so you start crawling. Crawling and crying and gasping, the world is starting to blur, adrenaline shots of survival still rushing through your veins and the deafening sound of your heartbeat in your ears.

"___!"

Footsteps follow you, urgently shuffling closer. When you reach the wall, there's nowhere left to go, so you huddle close to the corner, pulling your knees to your chest.

"___, it's me," a softer voice says as it approaches you.

Gentle hands cup your face, fingers brushing the tangled hair from your eyes as your body goes into full blown panic, unresponsive to the person now pulling you into their lap.

The shock of it all becomes apparent a moment later, your eyes closing on their own from exhaustion and your brain blocking reality the only way it can in the moment. By making you faint.

"Hey, stay with me, ___. We need to get out of here. Okay?"

Every breath you take burns your throat to a crisp, chest hot and achy every time you attempt to breathe.

One arm slips under your legs and the other behind your back.

"Don't worry, I got you. It's gonna be okay. Just stay with me."

Your head falls against their solid chest mere seconds before the world fades to black.

::

When consciousness returns, you're in a large bed tucked in with clean, white sheets. The room is also pure white, causing you to blink a few times just to adjust to the light coming through the window. Perhaps you would have slept longer had the lighting been controlled.

It's so plain in here, nothing overly stimulating. No paintings or pictures. The only door is on the far side of the room, leading out into the hallway. You've been changed into some pajamas and your hair is braided back out of your face.

There's a lady dressed in a blue dress and a white coat preparing a glass of water in the adjacent sink. You slowly sit up in bed, nodding in gratitude for the water when she hands it to you.

"Mrs. Barnes?"

"Hello, Your Highness," she speaks softly, kindly so as not to alarm your sensitive state.

"What happened?" you ask.

"Your schedule has been cleared for the day, so don't need to worry about anything. Prince Jeon said he would take care of everything. Please just relax. You're safe."

Not that she answered your question, but you weren't concerned at all about what might have been on your schedule.

"That man," you whisper as if speaking of attempted murder is taboo, "is he…?"

Mrs. Barnes sits on the edge of your bed, her hand lightly resting over yours. "He won't hurt you, Your Highness, I promise."

The scariest part is most likely what happened to whoever that was and the grudge he held against the royal family. His words haunt you. Losing a family member is hard, you know from personal experience. But to lose your daughter and then be locked away for, according to his accusations, something you didn't do? You would want revenge too.

There's no telling what his true story is. Most likely you'll never know. But the experience did bring a few things to light, mainly that your suspicions surrounding your father have been confirmed, without a doubt. Not only is he mistreating you, he's got his hands on the people of this kingdom too.

You gratefully take a sip of the water and it definitely helps your throat a little bit. "I didn't realize you are a nurse, Mrs. Barnes."

"I've been trained to take care of you no matter the situation," she says humbly. "I am capable and willing to be whatever you need me to be, Your Highness. Anytime. Just speak the request, I mean that."

You feel like there's an additional layer to her words of which you don't understand at this current moment. But they may be important in the future.

Out comes a deep breath you didn't realize you were holding, allowing your lungs to finally deflate, and with it your chin starts to tremble violently. Yes, you're safe now. But your body is still processing the trauma and coming out of the scary situation.

Mrs. Barnes is not your mother. But when she hugs you, it feels motherly. Her hand gently caresses your hair, soft hushes and warm words of comfort help you last until the end of your sobs.

And when all of your tears are dry and your water is finished, you gently fall back asleep to the sound of Mrs. Barnes shutting the blinds and darkening the room so you can get some proper sleep.

::

There's no telling what time it is when you return to reality. But your head definitely feels better. You can sit up at least. The pain in your throat isn't nearly as bad now either.

Everything seems to be the same as when you fell asleep except for a necklace that hangs just to the top of your chest. It has a small red button. Guess you didn't notice it before, but in your defense, you were processing almost being murdered.

What does it do though?

You look around one more time before pressing it.

Nothing. Huh.

You shrug and decide that you could really use a meal and some fresh air to help normalize your day somewhat. Your mind has calmed thankfully, even though your body still feels weak. Food would probably be a good idea.

You swing your legs around and notice your ankle has been wrapped up in bandages. When you move it, there feels to be a cast-like mold on the inside of the bandage. It is a little sore, but you're not too worried. People in the castle always go overboard for your physical safety.

One step and your ankle buckles under the shooting pain, crumbling underneath your weight as you literally fall to the floor with a painful hiss.

"Shit, that hurts," you curse to yourself, holding your ankle.

All of a sudden, the door bursts open.

"___!" Jungkook exclaims as he runs to you.

"Huh?" Your eyes close and you suppress a groan when another wave of pain hits you.

"Here, I got you." Jungkook takes your arm and wraps it around his neck, easily lifting you bridal style and placing you back in the bed. "Are you okay? What were you doing?"

"I was just hungry," you say innocently.

Jungkook tilts his head, looking at the necklace and then back at you.

"Oh," you say, taking hold of the red button, "I didn't know what it did, so I pressed it."

"You didn't know what the strange, red button around your neck did...so you pressed it?"

His face makes you irritated.

You scoff, "Well, I didn't think you would break down the door running like some wild man."

Jungkook chuckles at the imagery, relieved you're not seriously in trouble. "Well, they said you should wear it from now on. The castle apparently isn't safe anymore. When you press it," he pulls out a small necklace from inside his shirt and dangles it in the air, "I get the message that you're in trouble."

You watch as he tucks the necklace back in his shirt, eyeing the nice way his top flows loose and comfortable on his body.

"Does it work both ways? If you're in trouble, can you call for me too?"

"Yeah, but don't worry about me. Just please promise me that if you ever feel stuck or in danger, you'll use it. I know we're not on the greatest of terms right now, but the thought of you being seriously hurt makes me, I just, I don't know what I would do with myself if–

"Okay."

Jungkook blinks. "Wait, what?"

"I said okay. I'll call you."

"Oh," he clears his throat, eyes glancing from your chest back to your eyes. "I thought I would have to convince you."

"I know it may not seem like it, but I know I'm not invincible," you shake your head, "and after today, it's probably wise to always have someone ready to help me. Like you said, the castle isn't necessarily safe anymore."

You offer a small smile, and that's when Jungkook's smile grows about ten times bigger. No, you're not on the best terms but this is a lesson to accept help when you need it and appreciate protection, even if it hurts your pride. And clearly your agreement has provided some much needed relief for Jungkook.

"I'll never let anything happen to you again, ___. Sorry, I mean, Your Highness." He lowers his head and bows respectfully, like a proper body guard. It's kinda…odd.

Oh right, you told him not to call you by name anymore.

"Your Highness? Are you okay? You look a little warm." His hand goes out to feel your cheek, his knuckles gently pressing to your skin to measure the heat of your face.

"I'm fine. But I would like to get some food."

"Of course!" Jungkook immediately springs into action, frantically looking around, "I'll call for the nurse and she can run over to the kitchen -- oh wait, there may not be a chef on duty at this time. Umm, I can ask for--"

"Jungkook," you interrupt him and he freezes, "I'd rather just go to the kitchen myself."

Jungkook pauses for a moment before speaking, opting to do what you prefer rather than what he's most likely been told to do. "Absolutely, Your Highness. Whatever you say. I'm here for you."

You swing your legs over the edge of the bed and immediately halt. There's no way you're walking on your own, not with this ankle. You hope it's just sprained but it feels worse than that right now.

"Umm…"

Jungkook's mind finally clicks with the realization of the situation. "Would you like me to…I mean, I don't mind."

You really would rather not. Maybe you can just, like, hop to the kitchen? But when your stomach rumbles in hunger, you know there's not really another choice.

"Okay. Thank you."

Jungkook kneels with his back turned to you, arms at the ready and head bent forward. You allow your weight to fall over his back, arms around his shoulders and face beside his cheek. He slides his hands under your thighs and lifts you fully onto his back with ease, bouncing you to make sure he has a secure hold on you.

"Ready?"

"Sure."

His hands are warm on your legs, such a broad back, you can just lean against him without having to put in any effort to hold yourself upright.

A few veins in his arms have popped out, but he continues as if you weigh nothing. He tries to walk evenly so as not to make you any more uncomfortable. You think that's sweet of him.

As you pass the mirror above the sink, you catch a glimpse of yourself and the deep purple bruises around your neck in the shape of thick, violent fingers. A flash of white attacks your vision for a split second and you tighten your arms around his shoulders, hiding your face in the material of his shirt.

"You okay?"

"Mhm." You nod into his shoulder, nuzzling against the subtle, calming scent of clean laundry and rain.

His heartbeat is prominent and deeply soothing through his back, your breathing automatically matching his steady pace. His hair smells like vanilla which you didn't know but damn that's nice.

Hold up!

This is the same man that did so much that hurt you and Jimin, the same man who literally kissed you without permission in a prison cell. You can't be feeling these things, how despicable! Think about how you're going to get Jimin out of prison instead, that's much more important.

The two of you are silent the whole way to the kitchen.

"Hello?" Jungkook calls as he pushes the door open with his elbow.

You perk up at the sound of his voice, peeling your eyes open when your stomach grumbles yet again. Somehow, you had become too relaxed while he was carrying you on his back. How could you not though? His heart beating, his warmth seeping through his amazingly soft shirt, not to mention how weightless you feel being supported by his strong arms.

"Is anyone here?"

Jungkook takes a gander around the kitchen but the place is completely empty.

He turns his head to the side to see you perched on his back. "Do you mind if I put you down for a moment?"

All of sudden, you don't want him to put you down. "Yeah, sure."

Jungkook turns his back to the counter so you can slide off his back and sit on the edge, legs swinging in the air. He makes sure you won't fall before stepping away, checking the other room and pantries for any signs of life.

"Hello?" he calls a little louder. Before long, Jungkook returns and shrugs. "I don't think anyone is here."

"That's okay, I'll just make something," you say and start to shimmy off the counter.

Jungkook quickly puts his hands up, making you freeze. "No! Uh…I can cook something. Whatever you want, just name it. You shouldn't be walking right now anyway."

You already know that Jungkook can cook. He's cooked for you before, but for some reason, now it feels a little weird to have him serve you. He seems awfully eager though.

"Are you sure?"

Jungkook nods quickly. "Of course. It's the very least I can do after how I treated you."

Is he talking about the kiss? Or maybe throwing you in prison? Or maybe secretly conspiring with your father behind your back?

"Okay," you nod, settling in your spot to wait for food. "Thank you."

"Before I do though, can I say something?" He starts to step towards you, but stops when he sees your eyes widen uncomfortably. That's when he quickly drops to his knees, head to the floor in shame and regret.

"I'm sorry. And I know that doesn't erase what I did and it doesn't fix any of the shit I've caused, but I really am. Dreadfully sorry. About everything. I failed you and Jimin and I acted completely out of line. It wasn't my place to get involved and I should never have told about your relationship when you were so kind as to confide in me. It was wrong and I beg your forgiveness, Your Highness, if that's even attainable."

You're taken back at first by the suddenness of his actions but understand he's profusely apologizing, granted a little late, but you appreciate it.

"Thank you."

Jungkook looks up at you, smiling with a sigh. You remember his smile resembling a bunny, so maybe that's kinda cute.

"I would like you to explain something to me though."

Jungkook slowly raises himself back up to his feet, nodding at your every word. "I'll tell you anything, Your Highness. You'll hear nothing but honesty from me from this moment forward."

"Then tell me," you speak up a little, "are you still pretending?"

"Pretending what?"

"Do you actually love me?"

"I--" Now Jungkook is the one taken back. He sighs, a prominent blush on his cheeks. "Yes."

"Yes, what? Yes, you're pretending, or yes, you lo--"

"No!" Jungkook says quickly.

You both stop.

Jungkook sighs and rubs the back of his neck, looking around nervously before stepping closer to you, his voice dropping to a pleasant bass.

"There are some things you don't know, and you're not technically supposed to know them, according to your father. But I'm going to tell you, because your father is an asshole and I've realized whose side I should have been on from the beginning."

You nod to let him continue.

He seems legitimately afraid, but overall his expression reflects that of a person who is overwhelmingly determined.

"My kingdom is dying. We're in a really fragile place, it would take a miracle to stay above ground or enemies are going to come from every direction. Your father offered to save us, but in return he wanted our kingdoms to be united through marriage, so his daughter could be the rightful inheritor of both kingdoms. If our marriage fails, my kingdom fails. Everything that my family has – that our people have – is riding on this arrangement. I'm the only son and the only heir, so I'm the last chance at saving everything. I didn't come here with the intention of falling in love with you but I was hoping we would at least, you know, like each other...but you were already in love with Jimin," Jungkook clears his throat after saying Jimin's name.

You shuffled in your seat. Little does Jungkook know that you are still in love with Jimin now.

"Every time you mentioned him, it hurt and, I admit, I felt a little depressed. I know that this marriage isn't just for us, that a lot of good is going to come out of it, but because you didn't know any of that, you weren't seeing it the same way I was. You have to understand, I was told you couldn't know, that if I told you, everything your father promised would be nullified. After you and Jimin ended things, I thought I finally stood a chance. But you were going to run back to him again and I couldn't let that happen. I couldn't lose you, you're too important. For the sake of my kingdom and because I…I had started to really care about you."

Your expression has softened hearing this brand new side to things, points of view and circumstances you were completely blind to this whole time.

"I know I treated you like shit and it was wrong of me to be so selfish. It just made me so mad that you thought of Jimin like he deserved the world when I'm the one on the verge of losing everything. I got so upset that I went to your father and told him all that I knew about Jimin. I know, it was childish and stupid, and I deeply regret it."

Jungkook closes his eyes and takes a deep breath before continuing, brow furrowed and hands sweating at his sides.

"I thought he would just lock you in your room or something. Or maybe he would, I don't know, forbid you from seeing Jimin? I never imagined he would throw his own daughter or an otherwise innocent village boy in prison. Honestly, I begged to let you go but your father said it was for the best. I knew he was wrong, but there was nothing I could do. And then when he moved Jimin into...that other room. I knew that things were really out of hand. I realized I had played into the hands of a manipulative parent and king. No offense but your father is actually destructive and insane."

Yeah, you already knew that. But it's good to hear confirmation that Jungkook has realized it for himself as well. His comment results in a small shared smile, perhaps the first honest connection you've shared with the prince.

Tears start to form in your eyes at the mention of Jimin still being trapped there, but you hold your breath and wait for Jungkook to finish.

"When your father called you for that meeting to sign the marriage license, please know that was never a part of our plan and I never agreed to forcing you into anything."

You blink a few times. One or two tears escape, and you can tell Jungkook noticed. But he keeps going.

"Later your father told me to go to Jimin, and tell him you had signed the marriage license even though you didn't. He thought that if Jimin gave up on you that maybe you would be more willing to actually sign it. I'm not sure what I was planning to actually tell him when I went down there, but then I found you being attacked by that criminal and I just...snapped."

You nod and wipe away the tears that have fallen.

Jungkook takes a few steps towards you after finishing his story. "Are you mad at me?"

You just need a second to take all of it in. Everything Jungkook just told you. Jimin. Your father. All of it is so messed up. It makes your head and heart hurt.

"A little bit. I'm mad at everything right now. But I understand you better now. So, thank you for your honesty."

Jungkook sighs, "Do you forgive me?"

"Thank you for explaining everything to me." Jungkook's shoulders fall and his heart rate starts to slow down a little at last. "I know now that it wasn't your sole intention to hurt me or Jimin…but you have to give me time to completely forgive you."

Jungkook carefully places his hands on the counter on either side of you, bowing his head humbly and licking his lips. "I'm just grateful you're willing to listen to me. I did look pretty suspicious didn't I?"

You crack a small smile and look up at him. "Yeah, you did. But I understand that you're a victim of my father too, as is everyone I'm discovering."

You both just pause and take a few deep breaths, staring at each other. There was something else going here, something your father had planned that neither of you knew about. But for the moment, it's kinda nice to just have some things explained, even if all your questions are not completely answered. Jungkook was honest and open, and you really appreciate that.

"You know...that guy I baked a cake with..."

"Yeah?" Jungkook replies when you pause. He inhales very softly as he looks deep into your eyes.

"I liked that guy. He knew how to make me feel better. Kinda wish I could see him again," you confess.

Jungkook swallows. "Will you give me a second chance to be him again?"

"Are you gonna change on me again?"

"Never. I promise to be the kind of man you deserve."

You slowly smile. "I'm happy to be on the same side."

"Me too.

Your smile turns serious. "There's just one thing."

"What is it?"

"My father still has Jimin. And I won't let him die."

"Okay, what do we do?" Jungkook responds, openly implying that he intends to be a part of whatever plan is executed on behalf of Jimin's rescue.

You lift your chin, straightening your back in determination and command. "I'll do whatever I have to."

"How can I help you? Direct me, Your Highness."

"I've already started making a plan," you explain, taking note of the way Jungkook eagerly leans in to listen. "Firstly, I think you should stay close to my father."

"You want me to be your intel." The prince catches on quickly, or maybe he had a similar idea.

"Exactly. It's a long way around but let's continue pretending as if we're going to be lovers. Every move we make will have to be calculated from here on out. I'm not taking any more random chances. Jimin will be rescued."

Jungkook seems to be on board with everything you say now. He nods along to your plan, throwing in a comment here or there that eventually builds a decent discussion on the best way to go about fooling your father.

He ends up cooking a simple dish while you discuss different options and plans for breaking Jimin out of the dungeon. The prince had some other very logical suggestions, including using your necklaces as communication tools, and by the end of your meal, you already felt more confident about his character.

It felt as if you were speaking to the real Jungkook for the very first time, and you felt strangely at peace in his presence, supported and encouraged which you haven't felt since your break up with Jimin.

"We should get you back to Mrs. Barnes," Jungkook says as he places the empty dishes in the sink. "She'll be worried if you're gone for too long."

"Aren't you gonna wash those?"

The prince pauses. "What do you mean?"

You point at the dirty dishes in the sink beside where you sit on the counter. "If your mom taught you to cook, I'm sure she taught you how to clean."

Jungkook looks between you and the pile of plates and chuckles, rolling up his sleeves. "You're gonna make a great queen."

"Why do you say that?"

"Because you're so bossy."

You gasp and swat at Jungkook's arm. "How dare you?" But you're honestly laughing for the first time in a long time.

Jungkook grabs a washcloth from the shelf and turns on the water. He shoots a long squirt of soap into the sink as it fills with bubbles, dropping the dishes into the water one by one.

There are those veins again, subtly popping under the smooth skin of his forearms when he washes your bowl, the bubbles sticking to his body, tempting you to reach over and pop them.

When he rings the washcloth out, the water splashes onto his shirt and your leg.

"Hey!" you giggle, drying your leg with your hand.

"Oh, I'm sorry, Your Highness," Jungkook smiles mischievously. "I meant to do this."

His bubble covered finger pokes your arm, leaving a clean spot of happy bubbles on your skin. Innocent, but clearly this is a call for war.

Quickly, you dip your hand in the wash water and flick your fingers at Jungkook, spraying bubbles and water as he ducks to avoid your attack.

"Oh, you've done it now, Princess."

The prince rolls up the washcloth and flings it in your direction, dirty water violently spraying you down from head to toe. He does so again, his feet quick, ready to run if you choose to counter his attack.

"Ah! Jungkook-ah! Stop! I can't even run away!" you barely get the words out from how hard you're laughing. Your hands go up and your head shakes until your hair has completely fallen out and is sticking to the sides of your face due to the soapy water.

A few more attacks and Jungkook drops the cloth back in the sink, continuing to wash the dishes as if nothing happened.

You stare at his not-so-hidden bunny smile. "Yeah, okay, act innocent if you want. I know the truth."

He glances at you. "Who's acting? You're the one that's supposed to convince your father you're falling in love with me. I'm just washing dishes."

You point your finger at his nose, but then your hand falls into your lap. "That's different. And besides, I haven't really gotten a chance to yet."

"What about the date?"

You flinch slightly when he brings that up.

Oh yeah, the public date you and Jungkook are supposed to go on. If you remember correctly, Jungkook was actually in charge of setting that up. You also remember seeing a stage of some sort being built in the garden for whatever purpose, something you won't be thrilled about most likely.

"The date is a good place to start," Jungkook says nonchalantly, "since everyone will be watching and, you know, the other thing..."

"What other thing?"

He rolls his lips. Silence.

"Jungkook," you say his name carefully but there's authority in it too, "is there something I should know about the date?"

The boy blushes and it's so freaking obvious. "Yes...but I'm nervous to tell you."

"You promised to be honest."

His shoulders tense up, but his hands are continuing just washing the dishes, buying as much time as he possibly can.

"I command you to tell me immediately."

Jungkook looks at you, shoulders drooping. "You can't command me. I'm the Prince."

"Uh this is my future kingdom and you're in my land, so yes, I can."

"Uh sorry, Your Highness, but you're marrying me, which means I'll be King."

"Uh sorry, Prince, but if you've read the fine print on our contract, it says we will co-rule the kingdom. And as your wife, you have to do what I say."

Jungkook throws his head back and laughs like the little kid he is inside. "Does this mean you're coming to terms with the marriage?"

"No," you say, crossing your arms, "I'm just stating the facts. Tell me what's happening at the date."

"I'm embarrassed," Jungkook admits with a sigh, finishing washing the last dish before he speaks again. He places it in the drainer and dries his hands while leaning against the counter. "Your father is having me build a stage for a public audience."

"Yeah, I think I saw that. Why?"

The prince looks at you and swallows harshly. "Our first kiss."

::

You just stare at the boy sitting with you on your bed, criss cross while your ankle rests on a pillow on his knee.

"Our first what?"

Jungkook massages your other foot, trying to keep you as relaxed as possible while he explains this less than preferable situation.

"Your father asked me if I had kissed you yet, and I told him no--"

"You lied," you remind him harshly.

"I know, and I am deeply sorry I acted out of character; it was completely wrong, no excuses. I can never make up for what I did in a thousand years time."

"Then why did you do it?"

"Like I said, no excuses. Whatever my reason, it wasn't right."

Well, you appreciate his apology and honesty, but it's frustrating that he doesn't feel the need to explain his actions to you. It sounds like he's trying to apologize without an explanation to your hurt and what happened.

You simply sigh, "Jungkook, I was in a bad place at a bad time and I was scared. I needed you on my side but then you came at me from nowhere and kissed me of all things. I was as confused as I was upset."

Jungkook lowers his head in shame. He doesn't have a response because what he did is inexcusable, but eventually perhaps not unforgivable.

To be honest, there were a few times before then that you wouldn't have minded if he kissed you.

Wow, did you just mentally admit that to yourself?

But as you said before, several of those memories are just painful to think about now, especially since you discovered Jungkook wasn't being himself during any of it.

"Tell me about this date." You decide it's best to get back on topic. "What exactly is going to happen before, leading up to the kiss."

"Wait," Jungkook blinks, "does that mean you're willing to go through with the kiss?" He raises his eyebrows in shock, definitely not expecting you to agree at all, let alone so quickly.

Are you? Last time you checked this guy kissed you without asking at the worst moment.

But he also saved you from that criminal, and agreed to help you save Jimin, and carried you, and fed you, and apologized on his hands and knees, and – okay, if you think about it, he's done some nice things. You appreciate him telling you everything and finally giving you some answers as well. It's definitely helped you process if not anything else.

You could still refuse though. You have every right and Jungkook would have to understand.

But would your father? No. He would punish you for going back on your word. Or worse…he would punish Jimin to get to you. It kills you inside to know that he still has some kind of control over you, even with all this new knowledge you have obtained and with Jungkook officially on your side. But you'll never be fully free of your father's power until Jimin is released and Jungkook's parents are no longer under threat of being abandoned.

You bite your lip, choosing your next words carefully. "I'll do it. Under two conditions."

"This is your call."

You look him dead in the eye. "One. I want to know the minute it's happening. No surprises. I want to know everything you have planned for this date. From now on, we tell each other everything. It's you and me against everyone else--"

"Deal."

You put up your hand to tell Jungkook to wait. "Two. Jimin doesn't see this. He doesn't hear about it. He doesn't know about it. To his knowledge, you never touched me. You still help me save him, and he never, never knows we kissed."

Jungkook pauses for only a split second before nodding. "I'll do everything in my power to keep him in the dark."

Now that he's agreed to your conditions – not that he was necessarily in a place to reject them – but it does make you feel better about the whole thing.

Knock knock~

Jungkook springs into action, stuffing your legs under the blankets, and putting himself between you and the door, hand held out behind him defensively.

You gently reach out and touch his hand. He looks down, and then at your relaxed expression.

"Come in," you call.

"Your Highness," Sami practically cries when the door opens and he appears in the doorway, "are you healing well?"

You sigh, actually relieved to see the butler for once. "Yes, Sami. I am okay, just a little shaken up. Prince Jeon got me food earlier so I'm doing better."

Sami seems visibly relieved, hand pressed to his heart as he takes deep, filling breaths. "Thank goodness. I was so worried, Your Highness. Rest assured, that criminal has been punished accordingly."

You hate to think of what your father did to that man. Perhaps he deserved it, but you can't help but be haunted by his words. That man was clearly wronged by your father in some way, whether he deserved it or not. As you reflect on the situation, you realize there has to be more people out there who have been hurt by your father, abused or wronged. You promise yourself when you become queen, those people will be found and justified.

"Thank you, Sami."

"Also," the butler informs you, "your father would like to speak with both of you, whenever you feel up to visiting the throne room. He says he wishes he could come to you in person but unfortunately he's preoccupied at the moment."

Of course, he is.

You and the prince exchange looks. "Both of us?"

::

The throne room doors are opened so Jungkook can easily enter with you on his back. Yes, this is slightly very inappropriate to be entering an audience with the king on the back of a prince who is supposed to be your fiancé.

But also you father threw your love in prison, tried to force your engagement with a stranger, blackmailed Jungkook, threw you in prison, and has been terrorizing the people of this kingdom behind your back.

So fuck him.

You hate to seem needy, but Jungkook insisted you stay off your foot for at least the rest of the day in order to let your ankle start the healing process. Turns out you definitely sprained it. Bad.

Surprisingly, the king actually stands up and rushes to assist the prince. "Ah, my daughter! Are you okay?"

Instinctively, your limbs tighten around Jungkook's body. You're worried he may be embarrassed or taken aback (because to be honest you were too a little bit), but you feel his hands tighten around your thighs when your father gets closer, signifying he's also hesitant to let your father near you.

That makes you feel better. Little things like this help you come to terms with the fact that Jungkook is on your side now and he's not lying to get to you or because your father is trying to use him for his own benefit.

"Here, come sit down, ___." Your father leads you to a chair pulled out from his map table and gently helps you sit down. Jungkook stands behind you, his hands resting on the back of the chair.

The king sits in a chair opposite you, leaning on his elbows so he can show you how concerned he is.

"It has come to my attention that since the proclamation of your wedding and coronation, there are a growing number of people at our doorstep and inside our walls that wish to cause you harm."

No, dumbass, they want revenge on you for all the wretched pain you've caused to this kingdom apparently, and they'll enact their revenge through any means necessary, including targeting your daughter.

"And so, that is why I have made a decision. A decision that is for your own safety and I expect you to respect me and do as I say."

"Yes, Your Majesty."

Even though you desperately want to disobey, you know you don't have enough political or royal power to overthrow the king's orders right now. You'll have to lay low, play along, and keep your eyes down until you and Jungkook can execute your plan.

"I've made the arrangements for you to stay with Jungkook from now on."

The pleasant, neutral smile on your lips falls in a matter of seconds, eyes widening in shock. Your chair jerks beneath you when the prince reacts to the news as well. He must not have been previously informed of this. It's clear your father is making moves on his own now. He's relying less and less on Jungkook's trust and willingness. You'll have to be careful not to play into his suspicions that Jungkook is now on your side.

While you try to keep cool in the face of your father's obvious attempt to get a reaction, the prince is speaking up, "Your Majesty, if I may--"

"No, you may not, Prince Jeon. This is for my daughter's sake. I will not see another incident like this repeat. You two are to be wed! Learn to get along in the same living quarters. This will be good for you two, trust me, and I expect you to protect my daughter with your life. Are we clear?"

You reach behind yourself and lightly brush his leg, indicating not to oppose the king at this time. Jungkook reaches down and meets your hand before simply bowing in respect.

"Of course, I will risk my life before any harm comes to her."

You desperately want to tell the king off, or better yet push him off. A cliff. You can take care of yourself, damn it, you're already stronger and smarter and more prepared than you were even a week ago. You're all grown up now obviously.

"You look like you have something you want to say, ___," he comments with a smug, turning his attention to you.

You shake your head. "I will be safe with Jungkook."

Not that you want to switch rooms, but there really is no rationalizing with your father at this point. Right now, you need to focus on freeing Jimin. You can worry about Jungkook later.

He seems so happy about your response. "Oh, thank goodness! I'm so glad to hear you say that. I already had Mrs. Barnes begin moving you and Jungkook into a master bedroom in the left wing."

That was fast, but you suppose your father anticipated your inability to argue at this moment in time, so he took the liberty to go behind your back. Again.

You nod and give the best smile that you can, unable to see Jungkook behind you, but he must be playing off a better smile than you are based on the playful look your father gives.

After the king dismisses the two of you, Jungkook helps you onto his back and exits the main hall.

You should have anticipated this kind of awkwardness.

"I umm," Jungkook clears his throat, "I didn't know--"

"Me neither, Jungkook, it's okay though. This is playing along. This is what we have to do for right now," you assure him and partially yourself. "Ready to go see the room?"

"Sounds good. I actually think a nap would be nice right about now."

"A nap sounds great actually," you sound exhausted, even Jungkook notices the strain in your voice. "Let's go."

::

Your previous bedroom was quite large. Enough space for a walk-in closet, a king-sized bed, two sofas, a vanity, an extra large dresser, a bay window with perfect natural lighting, a chandelier, a working fireplace, and a three-way full body changing mirror with a platform.

This new bedroom you're going to share with Jungkook is…

"This is...nice." The prince nods, biting his tongue to refrain from commenting on his real thoughts.

A single bed stretches into the middle of the room, drab sheets and a grey comforter. The walls are white, obnoxiously white. There are two identical closets and a bathroom with two identical sinks. One shower. No windows.

Jungkook carries you past the threshold and sits you on the bed.

Oh good lord above sending miracle, cloud-like comfort. At least the bed is lovelier than the decor.

"Oh…my…god." You fall back, plopping on the mattress with shut eyes and arms making sheet angels. "Jungkook, you have to feel this bed. It's like heaven."

The prince, who was checking out the bathroom, crawls onto the bed and spreads out next to you, immediately sighing in pleasure.

"I never want to leave this bed for as long as I live. I can rule a country from here," you say, both turning your heads to see each other and giggle.

"Fuck, good, because I don't think I can actually get off this bed even if I tried."

You gasp, "That is not the language of a prince, sir."

Jungkook gasps back at you and then it morphs into a deep chuckle, "It's just us, can't we at least be comfortable when we're alone? To be honest, it'll be easier to convince your father we're falling in love if we actually trust each other." He props up on his elbow, laying on his side facing you. "You can curse around me, I don't mind."

"Seriously?" You mimic his position on the bed, fingers pinching at the comforter. "As royals, we're not supposed to. You know, for our appearances."

He shrugs and rolls into his stomach. "Yeah, I know, but it's tiring having to control your language when you're around others. When you're with me, just speak comfortably. I would prefer that."

It's like a massive weight falls off your shoulders. This proposal of extensive and complete casualty between the two of you feels way more genuine than seeing him on one knee.

You also roll to your stomach, landing shoulder to shoulder with him. "I'd like that too. The fewer expectations we have for each other, the more we can trust each other, the easier we can work together to save Jimin and your parents."

"My parents?" Jungkook repeats, softened eyes peering into your determined ones.

You see his eyelids flutter at the mention of his family. It's obvious how much he deeply cares for them.

"It's unfair for my father to put such a condition as marriage in front of a promise to help your kingdom when we have the resources, I know we do. You shouldn't have to marry me just to take care of your parents. First, we rescue Jimin. And then we take down my father and save your kingdom." You offer him your hand, the first time you have since he lost all redeeming character in your eyes. Slowly, little by little, he's earning some of it back. "Deal?"

Jungkook just stares at you for a moment, studying each distinct feature of your face, the speckles of gold in your eyes, the scar on your cheek that matches his, the freckles on your forehead, the tip of your nose.

Your lips.

He presses a light kiss to the back of your hand, maintaining contact with your skin for two seconds longer than you were expecting, but you don't mind so much. His lips are soft, genuinely touched by your promise to help save his kingdom.

"Deal."

He holds onto your hand for a time, smiling at you when you get shy and look away. You feel oddly at peace talking to him, like nothing you've felt before. What do you even call this? The way he looks at you like he just gets it, everything you're feeling, everything you've felt.

You feel understood. And what's more, you're starting to understand Jungkook a lot better than you were anticipating. You don't think you've ever met someone you have this much in common with, including Jimin.

Knock knock knock~

"Yes?" Jungkook grumbles, and you smile at his un-princely way of responding.

Sami's voice speaks through the door but he doesn't enter. "Prince Jeon, you are requested on the garden grounds."

You can hear the audible sound of Jungkook's heart breaking as he pushes off the bed with a sigh.

"Be there in a moment, thank you."

You sit up as well and watch him straighten his jacket and brush his fingers through his hair. He leans in close to the vanity mirror and checks his teeth, slapping himself a few times, not solely to make you giggle but he did in fact do that.

"I guess a nap will have to wait." He looks over his shoulder at you. "Will you be okay without help for the rest of the day?"

You nod and give him a small smile. "I'll be okay. I'm just scheduled to catch up on my studies."

"Alright. Press your necklace if you need me and I'll come running." He winks at you before leaving, your heart jumping inside your chest unexpectedly.

You can decipher what the heck that meant later. For now, a nap before study time.

::

You sleepily thank Mrs. Barnes as she closes your door for the night, books sprawled across the floor because you have no desk to study on anymore. Running tired hands through your hair is all the relief you can get outside of sleep. You are gifted with new silk pajamas which are nice, so you put those on and slip into bed.

Bed.

Singular.

As in one.

Goosebumps roam your skin at the thought of Jungkook sleeping next to you. Not that you suspect him anymore; he's explained his side of the story, apologized for his mistakes, and is helping you free Jimin now. Slowly but surely, he is redeeming himself, and you feel like you're seeing more of the real him now.

Jungkook in your bed shouldn't scare you, right? After everything he's doing for you and how many times he's saved you. He wouldn't do you any harm anyway, like he said, you're too important.

Then again…

Okay, it's just the thought of sleeping next to someone who is not Jimin. That's all.

Then again…

After you think about it though, it's not like he's going to be touching you. The bed is huge, and there is definitely enough room for both of you without either of you having to touch in any way. That's okay, right? As long as he doesn't touch you.

The knock at your door startles you out of your thoughts. "Who is it?"

"Me." It's Jungkook. He taps on the door like it's a drum, making a smooth beat with his fingers. "Are you decent?"

You listen to his music for a moment before answering, "Yes. You can come in."

The door handle turns, and he enters the room with a tired smile. "Hello again."

"Hello again."

The prince closes the door behind himself, all the light from the hallway getting sucked away just as quickly as it appeared. He drops his stuff on the floor with an exhausted, over dramatic sigh.

You giggle when his head drops back and he groans at the ceiling. "Crazy day?"

"Insane."

"I'm tired too," you say. "Let's go to sleep early." No point in being awkward about this and putting it off.

"Oh," Jungkook bites his lip, examining the sleeping arrangements, "yeah that's…okay."

He gathers his new, clean pajamas from his dresser and makes his way to the bathroom as you shimmy into the bed.

Thankfully, you walked around the room a bit today between study sessions. It hurt like hell and you probably irritated the swelling a good bit, but it's good to know that if you absolutely have to walk, you are able. Plus, if Jungkook had to carry you to bed, you might scream.

You pull the covers over your waist, just as the bathroom door opens and out walks Jungkook in his brand new, silk pajamas.

You both can't help but stare, lips rolled in silence and gazes transfixed on Jungkook's sleeping attire.

They match yours. Perfectly. Bona fide matching couple pajama outfits.

You haven't known the real Jungkook for very long, but somehow the fact that he's belly laughing at this fits his character in your mind very well.

"What the hell, did they seriously get us matching pajamas?"

"Looks like it," you laugh along. "They look cute on you at least."

"Yeah, they look cute on you too," he replies, giggles starting to calm down so there's only a smile left on his face now, subtle and charming you must admit.

You simply pull the blanket up to your chin and tuck yourself in while Jungkook walks to the small sofa on the opposite end of the room. You watch the Prince take the draped blanket off the back of the seat and spreads it over the lower half of his body.

"What are you doing?"

Jungkook's attention is caught by your question, looking over his shoulder at you. "I'm going to sleep," he answers innocently.

"There?"

"Yes. Why?"

"Uh, no reason."

You actually are somewhat relieved he decided to sleep on the sofa. Not that you want to kick him out of the bed, after all, it is technically his bed too. But you feel weird sleeping next to him right away.

"Goodnight, Your Highness," Jungkook tosses and turns for a moment before finally finding a comfortable position.

"___."

"Huh?" The prince opens his eyes to see you on your side, face resting in your hand and blanket pulled under your arm.

"You can call me ___."

"Right," Jungkook whispers through the dark. "Then, I will wish you a good night, ___."

"Goodnight, Jungkook. Sweet dreams."

::

The rustle from the other side of the room is what wakes Jungkook up hours later. His eyes are adjusted to the dark when they open tiredly, pulling his eyelids back to find you in the bed, tossing and turning and kicking and whining.

"___?" Jungkook whispers sleepily, "what's wrong?"

You fling your arm over your head and roll to the edge of the bed, almost falling right off.

"Are you okay? Are you awake?" Jungkook sits up slightly nervous now because you're not saying anything, just small huffs and quick inhales each time your head falls back and forth.

A quiet sob. That's when Jungkook springs off the couch, face planting into the carpet a few times until he makes it to the bed. He kneels by it and tries to keep you from flinging yourself off the edge when you suddenly roll into him.

Your expression. Scrunched. Fearful. Sad. Angry. He's never seen you like this before and it scares him.

"Hey, ___, wake up. Wake up," he lightly shakes you.

Your hands immediately go out to latch onto him, pulling your body to the very edge of the bed and curling yourself into what little piece of him you can. Your lips are mumbling incoherent nonsense at the boy, but Jungkook has literally no idea what you're even saying.

You're starting to sweat at this point, tears hanging on the end of your eyelashes, shamelessly crying now. Your face is nothing but horrified by whatever unconscious nightmare your imagination had conjured up. Jungkook's own heart hurts to see you like this.

Is this normal? How often do you suffer from nightmares that cause such drastic physical reactions?

Your grip on the Prince gets tighter, so Jungkook crawls into the bed and pulls you into his side, leaning back and holding your head to his chest, slowly rocking you back and forth.

"It's okay, it's just a dream. It's okay, it's just a dream," he keeps chanting this to you, but your fight never seems to end. He can feel his own eyes starting to sting.

You're still not waking up.

"Damn, what do I do, ___?"

And then he has an idea, something you told him a long time ago, but he always kept the sentimentality in the back of his mind.

Jungkook's voice is like a soft mist of rainbows after the hurricane. Like a funeral in the morning rain. Like the feeling you get when your mom rubbed your back when you couldn't sleep. Like a warm hug from your lover after a hard day.

He sings softly to you hoping maybe, someway his voice can be heard in your dream. Maybe, somehow his voice can reach you wherever you are.

At first his hold on you is nothing but trying to contain your shaking limbs, but eventually his embrace becomes more of a sympathetic paradise. In the process, your grip relaxes into a resting hand on his chest.

His soft whispers and hushed chorus are the only source of peace that makes its way into your reckless dream. You must have subconsciously heard him because not long after the prince sings for you, your heart begins to steady, and Jungkook notices how your expression relaxes along with your fists.

"There you go, see?" he says softly, stroking your back. "You're gonna be fine."

Your soft tears come to a stop, and silence once again fills the bedroom.

Jungkook looks down at you curled up next to his chest, face buried in his shirt, led clung around his under the covers.

You nuzzle into his chest when your breathing is at a normal rate, but now Jungkook's own heart is beating irregularly.

"Okay, princess, you can't be the only one who gets to sleep," he whispers and carefully starts to shimmy off the bed, moving your hand to the sheets and slipping his leg out from under you.

But your grip tightens and pulls Jungkook back onto the bed, making the Prince hault.

"No...Jimin...stay…"

Jungkook holds his breath.

You said...Jimin's name? Your beautiful soul even cries out for that village boy in your sleep.

Why this breaks Jungkook's heart is obvious. But what does he do when you're here, holding onto him like you are, needing him like you do?

Not like Jungkook can do anything about you being in love with Jimin. No matter what he does, you still always choose that cowardly, lying, village boy over him. A prince. Jungkook could love you too. So what if he didn't love you first. The point is that he could love you.

The point is that he probably already does.

And so the prince stays, carefully cuddling under the blanket next to you, only slightly shocked when you immediately wrap your arms around him and cuddle into his neck. Your cold body presses itself up against him, searching for that warm, safe place.

Your sigh of relief and peace, that small smile, the way your hands grip the back of his shirt as he's turned to you. This is officially what Jungkook lives for now. The feeling of holding you, protecting you, being with you during the worst times. He really loves holding someone like this, being present, being useful, being wanted.

But it's not him.

In your mind it's Jimin.

Jimin is the one you run to. Jimin is the one you want to see after a long day. Even if you and Jungkook share a room, in the back of his mind Jungkook knows you would gladly share a jail cell with Jimin over a king sized bed with him any night.

You may have learned to get along with the prince, and you may actually giggle at his attractive silliness every now and again, but Jungkook knows the truth.

You've been in love with Jimin for a long time. That doesn't just disappear overnight.

So this night is one he will cherish. He pulls you close to himself and lightly kisses your hair while you sleep. Even after the wedding, he's sure it won't be like this (if the wedding even happens). So he will just have to hold you while he can.

"Don't worry. I'm here." And he doesn't realize he's spoken until he hears himself saying, "I love you."

Right before Jungkook himself falls to sleep, he remembers hearing you whisper something to the man you think is holding you safe. The man that, in reality, is in a jail cell several floors beneath you. Something that breaks the prince more than he's ever been broken before.

"I love you too."

::

There are no windows in the bedroom for any light to shine through on your fluttering eyelids and slowly bring you back to reality. But there is a large shift next to you that wakes you up.

"Hmm," you mumble, your beautiful sleep so rudely interrupted.

You look up only to see Jungkook halfway hanging off the bed with one leg still caught under the covers.

"Hi," he whispers, frozen in his awkward pose.

Then you look down again at your arm lazily draped over the empty space where he must have been laying and realize in your sleep drunken headspace…

"Did you--"

The prince jumps out of the bed and puts his hands up in surrender.

"I swear, nothing happened! You were having a nightmare last night and you could have seriously hurt yourself kicking around like that, so I tried to calm you down, but then you kinda...held onto me, and then I got…stuck."

"I did, what?"

All you remember from last night is Jimin. He was being beaten. He was dying. He was crying. You ran and ran and ran to him. But you couldn't reach him. You had almost given up when you heard something like an angel singing to you. Was it your mom? Maybe it was Jimin? You can't be sure. The last thing you remember is finally reaching the boy and holding onto him, afraid to ever let go, and–

You look up at Jungkook.

Oh shit!

"I'm so sorry!" you gasp, utterly embarrassed when the pieces finally fit.

"No, it's okay! I didn't mind! I mean, anything I can do to help. It's totally fine," Jungkook stumbles over his words, clearly thrown by the whole experience because you've invaded his personal space and forced him to cuddle with you of all things.

This is officially the most embarrassing moment of your life, including the time when Star literally kidnapped you.

"Umm..." Jungkook rubs the back of his neck, a shy blush on his cheeks, "I'm going to go get ready for the day. I'll call Mrs. Barnes for you."

He immediately rushes for the door, grabbing his things on the way.

You can't believe you're about to do this but…

"Jungkook, wait!"

The prince stops with one foot out the door and looks back at you.

"Thank you. For last night. I appreciate you helping me. And sorry, I was umm," you clear your throat, "anyway, thank you."

His smile is so genuine it makes your heart ache.

"Anytime."

::

Mrs. Barnes had ready for you a shorter, green dress with matching accessories and, oh yes! Your favorite brown flats! A comfortable, classy look to help you get through the day after such a big change yesterday.

"I love it, Mrs. Barnes," you smile, looking in the mirror and You can't help but wonder what Jimin would say if he saw you in this dress.

Your thoughts have been wandering to him more and more lately. He's still down there and god knows what he's going through everyday. You desperately want to see him, but after what happened...you're petrified to even go near the dungeon door.

Maybe if Jungkook went with you? Of course, he did promise to help you free Jimin. But it's hard to imagine your future husband helping you sneak around to see your ex-lover.

"I'm assuming you're all healed, Your Highness?" Her voice breaks you from your own thoughts.

"Hm?"

She smiles at you. "Thinking of someone?"

"What? No. Who would I even be thinking about?"

"A boy?" she guesses, giving you a side eye.

You shake your head with a casual roll of your eyes, playing into the answer you know she's expecting. "Okay okay, you got me. Sharing a room with Jungkook may have caused me to grow fonder of the prince."

"Oh, I wasn't talking about him."

"What?"

"How's your ankle, Your Highness?" She changes the subject. "It looked a little swollen this morning."

"Better," you say truthfully. "I got up in the middle of the night and got water, so that's probably why. But the wrap you brought is already helping a lot with the pain."

There are still the emotional scars that will haunt you from the experience, but at least your body seems to be healing rapidly. And the white bandage supporting your ankle doesn't clash with your dress too much.

"Good to hear." Mrs. Barnes curtsies. "Anything else I can do for you, Your Highness?"

"No, I think I'm okay. Thank you."

"Excellent. The only thing you're scheduled for today is to see Prince Jeon for instruction."

You nod. "I'll do that then. Thank you."

One more curtsy and Mrs. Barnes leaves your room with a click of the door closing behind her, leaving you alone to ponder what she could have meant by seeing Jungkook for instruction. Where even is that guy?

Knock knock knock~

"Who is it?"

"Prince Jeon," the voice says.

You walk to the door and press your ear against it curiously. "Jungkook? Why are you talking like that?"

"I don't know what you mean," he charms through the door, voice uncharacteristically low. "This is my regular, manly voice."

Whatever it is, it's definitely not his regular soft, lovely voice. Another impression you're assuming, but the only thing you can guess is that he's trying to do an impression of a dying cow.

You open the door and there he is, leaning on his hand with one foot crossed over the other and a smirk planted on his stupid face.

"Your voice sounds like a dying cow."

Jungkook immediately stands up straight and pouts. "Aw! Come on, that's not nice."

You just giggle and smile. Why is he being such a dork today? Maybe because yesterday was so heavy. Whatever the reason, you appreciate his playfulness this early in the morning. It helps you breathe better, believe it or not.

"What's all this?" you inquire, pointing to the strangely casual yet comfy jeans, t-shirt, and blazer Jungkook has on. He must notice you looking at his fashion choices (hopefully you notice his shirt is green).

"Sorry, I'll be dressed up for the real date, I promise."

You tilt your head cutely. "Real date?"

Jungkook smiles at you, that ridiculously cute bunny smile. "You made me promise to tell you every detail of what's going to happen, remember?"

"So, is that what this is?"

"Yes Ma'am, you are absolutely correct." Jungkook then suddenly reaches into his jacket and pulls out a small, yellow rose. "For you, my queen."

You gently take the rose from him, never taking your eyes off his. "Umm, thank you, my prince."

"Shall we?"

"We shall," you respond with a happy chime.

Maybe this won't be too terrible. Plus this way, you can distract yourself from crying over Jimin until you figure out how to get him out of there, no use is staring at yourself in the mirror and becoming depressed about the fact Jimin can't see you in your dress.

As Jungkook leads you down the hall, there is only one thought in his mind: if he only has this one chance to win you over, even if that's impossible now, even if you never end up loving him the way he wants to love you, even if after this you run back to Jimin, he has to make this count. He has to be honest about how he truly feels for real.

"So," you start up the conversation with Jungkook as you both walk out the castle doors to the garden, "tell me, Jungkook, what exactly do you have planned for this date?"

The prince smiles at you and folds his hands behind his back. "Well, it is supposed to be a show of some sort for the people, but I also want us to enjoy it."

"I understand that. I want to know everything that can possibly happen. No surprises, remember?"

Jungkook smiles wide before continuing, "Well, I guess lots of little things. Heart fluttering things," he glances over at you, "for the people obviously."

"Like?" you ask slowly, getting more excited than you initially anticipated yourself to be.

"Like," he thinks for a moment before gesturing to your dress, "I'll compliment you on how lovely you look today. You look lovely."

You giggle, "Jungkook, this dress isn't even that nice and I'm wearing my brown flats that my father hates because they have a hole in the bottom, and my hair isn't even put up and Mrs. Barnes didn't do my make up this morning and--"

"And you've never looked so comfortable with me before."

The heat in your face spreads all the way to your ears. Why did he have to say that with such an entranced look in his eyes? As if he actually likes it better when you're dressed down like this.

You clear your throat, trying to move on before Jungkook notices the faint shape of your heart pounding through your chest. "Okay, compliments, check. What else?"

"I'll ask you about your studies. I'll most likely tell you how excited I am about the wedding. And there might be a good possibility that I'll hold your hand if I get the chance."

You shoot the Prince a look. "Hold my hand?"

"If I have your permission."

And then two words slip past your lips before your mind has time to register them.

"You do."

You feel Jungkook's soft hand slide its way into yours, gently pulling you closer to himself so you feel almost hidden behind his arm. Did he magically get taller just now?

You tilt your head as you continue walking, leaning away from him so as not to press your chest into his side. Jungkook just lightly squeezes his hold on your hand, intertwining your fingers with his to fill the lonely spaces.

He's held your hand before, right? Hasn't he? You remember being locked in the closet with Jungkook, and he held your hand then. So why does it feel different now? More serious.

"It's all in the little things. That's what the people are looking for. If you want to not only convince them but also convince your father, I have to really sell our feelings for each other." Somehow he manages to slip a wink into the two seconds you make eye contact.

So this is what the date will be like? Jungkook teasing you with winks and smirks, making your heart clench by lightly rubbing the back of your hand with his thumb, constantly keeping an eye on your small movements while you play with your dress out of pure embarrassment, compliments, flirting, quickened heart rates?

Is this what it's like to have a boyfriend that you don't have to hide? You admit that it's nice to walk out in the open with someone instead of behind a bush.

"Yeah...the little things."

"What was that?" Jungkook leans down, titling his head towards you as if he didn't hear your quiet mumbles.

You smile up at him before giddily hitting his arm. "Just keep walking, Prince."

He smirks and stands up tall once more. "Whatever you say, Princess."

He doesn't drop your hand.

First things first. Eat.

Jungkook has prepared a soft patterned blanket spread over the grass under the archway circling over you like a protective covering from the harsh sun. The shade feels wonderful. And the basket on the blanket looks packed with delicious foods.

Damn, you're hungry.

"You did this?"

"I tried at least."

You remember that your father appointed Jungkook in charge of this date, but never in a million years did you expect anything so...simple.

This is a public event. A performance. A show. So why does it feel so intimate and romantic? Why does it seem like Jungkook thought more about you than the people who will be watching?

When he gestures for you to sit, you carefully tuck your dress under your legs and lower down to the blanket. He offers you another blanket to cover your thighs in case you'd like it, but you're okay with feeling the breeze. It's actually quite comfortable being here with him.

Jungkook plops down across from you and starts digging into the basket.

"I've been doing some thinking," he remarks with a nonchalant tone, however the look on his face is anything but relaxed, "and I think you're right. I'm not anything special."

"What?" Your attention is bought all of a sudden. What is he even saying to you now, taking out sealed tubs of salad and cheese like he's no big deal.

"All those times I talked down to you and scolded you for not agreeing to the arrangement, I think I was jealous because I wasn't brave enough to stand up for myself the way you were. I see the way you look at Jimin. The way you risk everything for him. You risk your safety. Your innocence. Your title. Even your life. I...I want that."

He looks at you, a vulnerable and exposed heart in his hands. You don't suspect he's practicing a big speech for when you're on the actual date. No this is just him pouring out his heart and mind to you.

"Even now when Jimin is dying, you still hold on to the hope that you two will live happily ever after. I know it's not something most men admit but," he swallows, "I want a happily ever after. I want to fearlessly risk my life for someone. I want to kiss them at night and hold them when they fall asleep."

So, Jungkook is a hopeless romantic. How interesting that you happen to be the same way. You completely understand where he's coming from, and when he scoots closer to you on the blanket, you don't mind being a little bit closer.

"It sounds crazy, but I thought I could make that happen with you. Even if our marriage is arranged, I wanted to. I still want to. But when I saw you cry over Jimin in the prison and how close you held him even after everything that happened, I felt like I had to protect myself for some reason because you weren't falling in love with me the way I was falling for you."

Wait a second, is this…is this a confession? Is he confessing to you right now? Where did this come from all of a sudden?

"I didn't think before I kissed you. It wasn't how I pictured my first kiss with you at all, and I hope that's not how our last kiss ends. You probably will never forgive me, and I completely understand that. I just hope you can find it somewhere in your heart to free me from my prison too."

He can't look at you. Jungkook stares down at his lap, tapping his fingers against the ground and rolling his lips nervously.

The oddest thing happens. You start crying. First it's only a few tears, but then they start to rain down your cheeks. That was…everything you needed to hear. Everything you needed Jungkook to say.

Your voice is weak, but he hears it clears as day. "I forgive you."

Jungkook looks up at you with shock written all over his face.

It's hard to forgive. Most of the time people want to hold onto that feeling because it gives some kind of purpose to the pain. But sometimes, to get past all that pain and really give it some purpose, forgiveness is what you need.

"You do?"

"Yes, Jungkook. I care about you. I don't know how or when you managed to make me, but I do. But I don't want an arranged marriage. I don't want forced love. If I do marry you, I likely won't ever love you the way you want me to. You deserve to know that."

Jungkook licks his lips, eyes tearing up with every blink. "I know that. I'm just asking you to give me a fair chance. Let me treat you the way you should be treated, be the kind of man you can rule beside, the kind of man you could maybe learn to love. I will fight for you to choose me until your wedding day."

Your heart clenches at his words as you make your way closer to his side of the blanket. Jungkook allows you to lean your head on his shoulder, and gently rests his head on yours.

"How did we manage to get here?"

Jungkook takes a deep breath and sighs, "I don't know. But I'm glad we did, I think. Even if this arrangement does happen, and even if you never love me the way I want you to, at least I know you don't hate me."

You lift your head and look him in the eye. "You're going to be a great King. I really believe that."

"Thank you, ___. You'll be an equally amazing queen, I wholeheartedly believe that."

The prince leans over and kisses your forehead. When he pulls away, you both hover there for perhaps a moment too long to be considered friends or even pretend lovers. There's nothing pretend about the way you just looked at him and he just looked at you.

The air is tangible when his eyes drop to your lips, but only for a brief moment and then you pull away to rest your head on his shoulder again.

"So...are we okay?"

"Yeah, we're okay."

The moment is nice to you. Leaning on Jungkook like this, not feeling threatened now that he has revealed his heart to you. You understand how he feels, which is great, but now your feelings are becoming a bit complicated.

"___?"

"Yes?"

"Never mind. Just, can we stay here for a little bit?"

You're hesitant for only a second, but eventually you rest your weight on his shoulder and close your eyes as his thumb lovingly rubs over the back of your hand.

"Of course," you tease him, picking out a grape and holding it up to his lips, "we haven't even eaten lunch yet."

Jungkook smiles when he eats the fruit, watching you with easy eyes. They're stripped of all that princely gentleman front from before and what's left is a young boy who really likes spending time with you in the garden.

The two of you talked for another good while, happily joking and talking while eating together. For the first time in a long time, you feel normal, like things aren't as fucked up as they actually are.

You admit, being with Jungkook is like a dream and he will definitely make a lucky girl happy one day. But that girl just won't be you.

Or maybe…

No, it won't be you.

::

With his hands over your eyes and your feet shuffling along the grass, you and Jungkook make your way across the garden, to a spot you couldn't see before.

"Jungkook, can I please see now?" you ask in excitement.

Okay, you hadn't been really looking forward to this date, but it turned out to be really nice eating and talking with Jungkook. And now that the prince has been whispering how nervous he is about your last stop, you've become uncontainably curious about the last surprise.

"Just a few more steps...and...now!"

He removes his hands and your eyes flutter open.

The garden is...breathtaking. Beautifully colored flowers lead to an open space with natural artistry and a fountain running crystal water down the curves of a beautiful queen. Every detail is thought out with your preference in mind. In short, the garden looks more like it did when you were little than it has in years.

"Do you like it?"

You turn to the boy who just asked you that ridiculous question and wrap your arms around his waist. "It looks like it did when my mother was alive. How did you do this?"

He softly hugs you back, swaying a little while you peek out to see the view of the grounds again.

"I just asked around and got some reference blueprints. It's not perfect but–"

"It is perfect." He looks down at you, smiling when you smile up at him. "Thank you."

The biggest difference is the massive stage built on the far side of the garden. The stage is a rectangle placed up on stilts and stairs on the side to help you climb, outlined with lights and decorated simply but effectively to make whoever stands on it seemingly shine.

You step onto the stage with a little help from Jungkook offering you his hand. Being up this high isn't actually that bad. You feel free.

The view is amazing, but your calming day dreams are interrupted when you remember what this stage is actually for.

Your...performance.

You feel your heart slightly break when you remember that this isn't a legitimate date. This is the dress rehearsal. The real date is public. People will be watching. Jungkook won't be this guy, he'll be Prince Jeon again.

You don't want that to tarnish the memories you have from this day, they've been too amazing. You want to remember this day as it is now, but you know what's coming next.

"I guess this is the finale?"

Jungkook nods and swings your hand, which he's kept a light hold of since you made it into the stage. "Yep. This is it."

The stage feels so high now as you look to the side. You can see almost the entire village from up here... more like almost the entire village can see you, really.

"So," Jungkook sounds like pure awkwardness when he turns to you, "there's still one more thing planned for today. Our...you know."

He means the kiss. Your first kiss, according to your father's knowledge.

"Right. I agreed to that," you say slowly.

"You can still say no, if you choose. I don't want to force you." He's glanced down at your lips at least twice by now, and it's making your heart clench.

"Jungkook, I just--" You pause when you feel his thumb gently brush the back of your hand, he must really like doing that. He's listening so intently and carefully to you now.

Your father thinks this is your first kiss with Jungkook. He has his eyes set on this kiss happening. And you know what threats he will make to Jimin's life if you decide to back down at the last minute.

"___?"

You look up at him and suddenly you feel a tightening pull in your chest. What is this? Are you feeling guilty for not knowing what you want from him?

No way. Jungkook is the one who threw himself at you. And even with the desperate, pitiful way his eyes are begging you now, you will not let yourself enjoy this kiss.

"I'm scared," you admit.

And that is partially true. What happens after he kisses you? What happens then? You still choose Jimin no matter what, but is it safe to let him kiss you? After today, maybe it's good to let him. It will give you reassurance about Jimin, plus Jungkook will feel better about the first time he kissed you, also your father will be happier which means Jimin is safer.

"I swore to protect you with everything I am," Jungkook reminds you softly. "I won't kiss you unless you tell me to."

You can't believe the words that leave you at this moment, but you also don't want your first consensual kiss with this man to be in front of hundreds of people. That's too much pressure, too much expectation.

"Make it count."

His head tilts as he leans down to your height. You tilt your head up to meet his lips, and he kisses you.

This is definitely a different feeling than the prison. The way his hands rest on your body almost as if you could crumble if he holds you too tight. His lips are soft, gentle, almost as if he's being extra careful with you to make up for the last time he stole a kiss.

Your lips magically move with his, and you can feel from the way Jungkook steps into you, the pull and push, the slight way he relaxes when you kiss him back. He's falling more and more with every second, every movement.

You taste so sweet to him and his entire body feels electrified when you push up into the kiss. He doesn't want this to end either. If he could keep holding you like this for the rest of his life, it still wouldn't be long enough for his heart to calm completely.

Your mind races with endorphins and hormones and feelings and...these feelings, what are they? You thought this kiss would be depressing, repulsive even.

But the opposite is true.

Your hands move from being limp at your sides to gripping his biceps. His muscles instantly clench under your touch and Jungkook takes a deep breath through his nose as he pushes against you harder, forcing your head to tip back and your mouth to open wider for him.

The passion he puts into these fifteen seconds is immeasurable. He can't get enough of you. Not that he was doubting his feelings before, but now he knows for sure that he is in desperate, unconditional, undeniable love with you.

Your lips part slowly as if they were stuck with glue. He lingers only a few centimeters from your lips. His body jerks forward once or twice as you can tell he's holding back from pulling you flush to his body and ravaging your mouth with kisses. His eyes stare at your lips as if he hasn't been fed in weeks. Both of you are breathing somewhat heavily now.

"I--" The prince tries to speak, but his voice cracks.

You step back, leaving the boy standing with empty arms and a love struck gaze clouding his eyes.

"Umm…" you straighten your dress, breaking a little quicker and eyes still thank you for today. I don't feel as nervous now about tomorrow."

He stares at you, biting his lip with a pitiful, pleading look in his eyes.

"Well, umm, we should probably–"

"___." His voice deep, calling out to you, makes you gasp, whipping yourself around at the sound of his footsteps.

You blink once, and Jungkook has you scooped up in his arms, his lips attaching themselves to yours in a needy, passionate kiss. The way he ravages your lips has the breath knocked from your lungs. You can feel how greedy he is for you through his movements, but this is more than the way he kissed you in the prison.

He's not upset. He's in love.

You close your eyes and almost literally fall to the ground. Thankfully, Jungkook's arms are wrapped around your lower back, holding your body to his. You feel perfect in the way he kisses you, mind clouding over while everything except him seems to fade away.

He whispers your name needily into his kisses, and you instantly melt. What you don't know is how difficult it is for the prince not to kiss down your jaw, mark your neck, and show off the moans he knows he can pull from you if he had the chance. If he just had the chance.

This kiss ends more abruptly than the last one and it leaves you both panting for oxygen. You can tell he ultimately pulled away so quickly because he couldn't trust himself to not get carried away with the high that comes from kissing you. You're somewhat thankful because kissing him was starting to mess with your head too.

Jungkook looks at you as you stare at his lips, breaths mixing in the close proximity.

"Why did you--" You try to ask and push his arms from squeezing you closer to him, but he cuts you off with a brush of his lips on yours. This boy can't get enough now that he's finally experienced what kissing you is like.

He whispers to you softly, "Please, choose me, ___. I'm begging you."

You don't hesitate. "You know who I choose."

The quick response doesn't shock either of you. But the way Jungkook's cheeks flush makes your heart suddenly clench.

"I know but…" his words are caught in his throat as his heart tries to come to grips with your decision, "...will you think about it? Not just for the arrangement, but think about it for me? You know how I feel."

You stare into his eyes as they search your face with the utmost passion and pleading.

"And you know how I feel."

"I can love you more than this. Just let me."

There's a magnetic field around you that Jungkook just can't seem to fight anymore as his lips ghost across the delicate skin of your cheek, placing small pecks here and there. His hand comes up to brush your hair behind your ear, following the natural curve to hold the back of your neck. Perhaps this is his last chance; he can't miss the opportunity to feel you.

A million thoughts run through your head when he says this. But only one thing passes from your lips in response, as a breathless whisper ending and crushing all his hope.

"We're freeing Jimin. Tonight."

::

You couldn't have been clearer. Those words were exactly what you wanted. You wanted to see Jimin. Every night you had nightmares, everyday you were knocked down. Jimin was the only one that could console you. Even after your amazing time with Jungkook, you miss him. You've chosen Jimin. Right? Is it even a choice?

Your heart is overcome with a heavy need to hold Jimin and tell him everything is going to be okay, for his sake and for yours. But you can't lie to Jimin or to yourself. Everything is not going to be okay. Not when you've got your father and Jungkook and the wedding hovering over you like a threatening tsunami ready to drown you at any moment.

Thankfully the prince has become somewhat of a life raft for you, agreeing to help you emotionally maneuver the difficult relationship with your father and help free Jimin from prison. He's trying very hard to make up for all that he did, and you see that, and you really appreciate it. Turns out he's actually a decent guy. Now that he's not being blackmailed by your father, you kinda like him.

You sigh and rub your temples with two fingers. There are voices in your head that won't shut up.

"You okay?" Jungkook asks, a tender hand on your shoulder.

The two of you are just outside the staircase that will take you down into the dungeon. One staircase below that is where Jimin is being held.

You manage a nod and start your descent. The stairs creak underneath you like they always do. You still hate it.

It's so…far. You have to go down so many stairs, so many chances for someone to catch you. Hurt you. It gets harder to breathe the farther you go down. You have to stop several times just to regulate your breathing and stop the room from spinning. It feels like it any moment, you might be killed.

About halfway down, Jungkook offers to hold your hand. Perhaps he might regret that after you almost break his fingers, but he doesn't complain. He just squeezes back.

Jungkook leads you to the back of the dungeon to another familiar staircase. You wish it wasn't familiar. You wish you didn't know what is at the bottom of this staircase. At the same moment your body is urging you to run to Jimin, it is also screaming at you to run away.

"Do you want me to come with you?"

"No. I want to talk to him alone first." If you know one thing, it's that you don't want Jungkook to see your inevitable break down when you finally see Jimin again.

Jungkook just nods and hands you his torch, replacing it with a new one from the wall. Your feet go down step by step until they reach the bottom where you can place your light on the wall. The small circle shaped room is dimly lit once again.

"Jimin?" you whisper through the darkness.

Nothing.

A little louder. "Jimin?"

Still nothing.

A horrid thought creeps through your mind. Was he taken away? Did your father send him away behind your back? Is he... no, he can't be.

"Jimin!" The sound is pushed out of you in the form of a desperate cry. If Jimin isn't here then where is he?

No, he has to be here. But why isn't he answering you?

Your eyes start to adjust little by little, so in a few minutes, you decide you take further steps around the wall in the chamber.

Then you see it. A small figure curled up against the far wall. Although that doesn't even look like Jimin anymore. He looks skinnier, smaller, sicker.

The sight sickens you, but your heart pulls on you to run to him.

"Jimin!"

Jimin has collapsed on his side, eyes closed, motionless. Your eyes are adjusting and every second that passes, you can see a little more of his broken body. His shirt is completely gone and his bottoms are ripped, torn, slashed through and through. Even now, iron shackles have been placed on his ankles. As if he has the strength to run away.

You cry. There's no other way to say it. The tears fall down your cheeks, and your throat traps your voice. Your chest tightens, and your whole body turns cold. Pathetic crying that says you're late and you're useless.

You gently shake him but he doesn't respond. You shake him again, this time a little harder. You shake him a third time and choke on your sobs when he refuses to look up at you. Gently, you pull Jimin away from the wall and that's when you notice it. His back. His sides. He's barely recognizable at this point. His skin is stained in blood and dirt and nothing else is visible.

"Shhh it's okay..." You rest his head in your lap and run a shaky hand through his hair. "You're okay. It's going to be okay."

After a moment, your fingers trace his ripped up chest. "These wounds are fresh. You're still alive."

The whole scene is beyond traumatic and it breaks you into a million pieces. This was happening every day, the whole time. You hate yourself. But you hate one person even more.

How can you even call him your father anymore? He's nothing but a villain.

He did this. He put Jimin in here. He ordered this outrageous torture to be placed on Jimin. He was behind the near death of the man you love. He was behind everything.

You gently lean down and place your trembling lips against Jimin's forehead. All you can taste when your lips peal away is blood. His face is smothered in it.

"Jimin, please, just say something. Tell me anything." You whisper to him, desperate to wake him, see him alive. He lays in your lap as if he's dead. You beg him to say anything.

But nothing.

Frantically, you pull at your necklace from around your neck and press the red button. It isn't a full minute, and Jungkook is running down the stairs to you.

"___? What's wrong?" He asks quickly when he reaches you.

"Let's get him out of here. Right now." You stare at Jungkook through stained eyes.

"Alright, let's do this." His response is immediate, no questioning your authority and no questioning your commitment.

Jungkook reaches into his pocket and pulls out a ring with about twelve or so keys. He chooses one of them and it pops the iron shackles right off Jimin's ankles. There are two large purple bruises from where they were, many cuts bleeding openly close to his bones as well.

But once Jimin is no longer trapped here by chains, his only restriction is the fact that he's unconscious but you are much too weak to lift him yourself, especially with your ankle still sore.

Jungkook kneels on the floor and somehow successfully (with a little of your help) gets Jimin onto his back. The prince begins to follow you back up the staircase, but stops after the first step to ask you.

"What will we say to your dad?"

You had thought a lot about what you wanted to say to his face. You had thought a lot about what you should say to his face. But it all came down to that fact that you honestly aren't scared to curse him anymore. Nothing you say can be as bad as what he's done.

"Leave that to me. He won't get away with any of this."

The seemingly dead body resting on Jungkook's back is who is important and should be taken care of. You will give Jimin every breath remaining in your lungs if you have to.

You reach the top of the stairs, continuously glancing behind yourself at his wounded, limp body just sprawled out on the Prince's back, praying he's still breathing.

Not that you're surprised when the guards at the top of the stairs refuse to let you leave with a prisoner, but you're more frustrated than anything. This is the man you love being beaten literally to death at the hands of these men. What are you supposed to do? Leave Jimin to die and marry some prince?

Okay that's exactly what you're supposed to do, but that's beside the point!

"Let me through," you command when two huge pairs of shoulders block the way. The two guards that look down on you have faces full of unbelief.

"Are you serious?"

"You'll hear from my father about this," you warn. "Where did you get the authority to do such a thing to a working citizen of this land?"

The guard to your left scoffs, "I'll have you know that this working citizen is anything but innocent. His affair with you should have had his head chopped off on the spot. We've been going easy until now. He should be grateful."

"Grateful?" The thought punches you right in the gut but you stand your ground. "I am just as guilty as he is! The only reason I was not killed on the spot is my title. A title you will respect now and step aside."

"The king will have our heads if we do."

"I will have your heads if you don't. You foolishly think I can't convince my father to have you executed either way?"

The guard on your right chuckles to hide his worry that you might be telling the truth. "If you can convince your father to kill us, why can't you convince him to let this captive free? Why are you reduced to sneaking behind the king's back?"

"I am not sneaking anywhere. I am the rightful heir to the throne and you will address me appropriately unless you wish for punishment. I am the king's daughter after all, and if you think my father will not spite down any man that disrespects me, then you are sorely mistaken."

You keep going when the guards are struck speechless. You point at Jimin again, "Take a look at what my beloved father did to this 'lowly stable boy' who dared to just touch my hand. If my father finds out you've spoken and defied me in this way, he will not hesitate to hang you. I believe that, and you would be wise to heed my words."

"You're no queen," the guard says slowly, shifting this weight back and forth, checking with his buddy before he opens his mouth again. "We are loyal to the current king, not his daughter."

You've had about enough of this. Every second you stand bickering with these overpowered buffoons, Jimin risks permanent damage.

"You know for yourself the unreasonable, violent behavior my father has been cultivating lately. How many new prisoners do you get a day? How many of those do you think are actually guilty?" Your assertion seems to be making the guards nervous, but they haven't budged just yet. "Whether you let us pass now with this prisoner or not, I will still be queen in less than six months. Are you sure this is the impression you want to leave on your upcoming ruler, disobedient and stubborn?"

Their faces are pale with fear, your words having struck their deepest insecurities and fears. Everyone knows not to get on a king's bad side, and everyone knows the best way to do that is to hurt his daughter.

"Now let us pass," you demand.

Immediately, they step aside.

Once you walk past the guards and up the last stair case, your eyes are blinded once again as you step into the bright castle hallways, Jungkook following right behind you.

"We did it," you breath, a little shaken up from the whole scene.

"You did it," the prince clarifies, letting the dungeon door slowly shut behind his foot. It locks from the inside.

"I knew you could. I knew you had it in you."

Jungkook smiles at you, warming your heart immensely. The fact that he's proud of you makes your skin tingly. For some reason, you'd really like to hold his hand right about now, hug him, feel him smile against your neck.

"Thanks for helping me."

"You'll be a great queen. I believe in that."

And with his last encouraging words, you both make your way quickly out of the castle towards the village. But you're not going to Jimin's house. No, you know exactly where he needs to go.

::

knock knock~

You try to be as quiet as possible, so as not to draw any attention to yourself. The village is dark, somewhat dead for a town that's supposed to be celebrating an upcoming royal wedding.

The door to the small cottage opens slowly.

"Who is it? Oh, Your Highness?"

A woman stands in the doorway with a wooden spoon in her left hand, slacked jawed to see you, but even more so to see Jungkook with a dying village boy on his back.

"I know this might be strange and a bit sudden, but I desperately need your help."

::

"I'll be back."

Jungkook left over an hour ago after a messenger from his kingdom came by asking for him. How the messenger found Jungkook here, you still don't know, but judging from the terrified look on his face when he left, you're assuming it's not to wish the prince a happy wedding.

Here you are. Here Jimin is.

Jimin lays on his back inside the white sheets. Now that he is cleaned up and washed, it is so much easier to see his broken body left with gashes and cuts and scars. No physical pain could ever be inflicted on you to match the way you feel when you see Jimin this way.

"Hey?" He's fast asleep, so it's a long shot but you try anyway.

He just lays there, unresponsive. Your bottom lip trembles slightly as your fingers run along the white sheets of his bed.

You can't stop yourself from gently crawling in beside his deformed body and looking up at him. You press a kiss to his shoulder, but he doesn't move.

"Jimin, say something to me."

You silently wish. But of course, he doesn't.

You cuddle up next to him, remembering the way he used to hold you closer every time you did that. He would call you cute or silly or dorky, but he always held you. Every time.

Except now. And your heart breaks all over again.

You slide your hand down to your side and your fingertips brush the back of Jimin's hand.

"Remember the first time you held my hand?" you chuckle lightly remembering the moment. "You blushed so much I asked you if you were going to pass out. Then you said you had never met a princess before."

You take full grasp of his hand and intertwine your fingers best you can, your voice reducing to a whisper, "You said I was more beautiful than anyone you could have ever imagined. And I believed you. And I thought you were equally as beautiful."

You can tell that Jimin is breathing from the slow rise and fall of his chest. You know all this talking to him is pointless; he can't hear you. But you haven't talked in so long, and now that you have him again, you so desperately don't want to lose him to his sleep. So you continue.

"Do you remember how we met? You were walking past the castle grounds to the fields for work. You were so young then, and it's only been a year. Do you remember when we saw each other? Our eyes met and…," you giggle at the memory, "and then you winked at me and some guard pushed you to keep walking. But when you were walking home, I looked for you to wink at me again. I thought you were so cute and so different from the princes I normally met."

You rub the back of his hand with your thumb as you talk. "You are different. You are so special to me, Park Jimin.

Carefully you pick yourself up and lean over the wounded village boy.

"Please come back to me?"

You lightly press a kiss to his cheek with a sigh. At least the hard part is over. Once Jimin wakes up, things can finally start coming to an end.

"Your Highness," a soft voice reaches your ears as the door to Jimin's temporary home opens.

"Mrs. Barnes," you openly sigh and rush to greet her with a hug. "Thank you so much. You don't know how much I appreciate this. You've always done so much for me, and this is going beyond your call of duty. I will not let this go unrewarded."

"Oh, now stop that talk!" She smiles at you. "I've known about Jimin for a while, so I'm happy to help."

Your eyes grow ten sizes, a short cough resulting in air getting caught in your throat.

"You...you knew about Jimin? Does that mean you knew about... us?"

Your heart races in fear. Even though the whole royal family and most of the castle staff knows about the affair now, it kinda scares you that someone knew about your secret meetings while they were happening.

Mrs. Barnes calms you a little by taking your hands with care. "I knew from the moment you came skipping into your room a year ago with that silly smile on your face. It was a love-struck smile, so obvious. Maybe I should have said something, but..." she reduces her voice to a whisper, shifting her gaze to the boy in the bed, "...who am I to discourage love?"

Mrs. Barnes really is someone you don't ever want to lose.

You tear up, unsurprisingly, not even trying to hold back the hug that explodes from inside of you as you wrap your arms around the kind woman, tears spilling onto her apron.

"Thank you. Thank you for everything. What would I have done without you?"

Mrs. Barnes gently hugs you back while stroking your back. The motion reminds you of the way your mom used to smile and sing to you whenever you were stressed or troubled.

"Don't worry, Your Highness. Jimin will wake up soon."

You lift your head from her chest and blink a few tears away. "Tell me what I should do."

Mrs. Barnes tilts her head in curiosity.

"I mean..." you try to determine the right words, "...my father. What should I say to him? I don't know how to face him. He'll never claim me as his heir after what I've done."

"You're worried about the kingdom."

You nod.

This is when Mrs. Barnes slowly lifts her hand and brushes your hair from your eyes, just gently smiling as she speaks, "Your Highness has grown up so much so fast. I think you need to decide where your heart lies first."

You furrow your brow in confusion when her eyes shift towards the bed.

"What do you mean? I chose Jimin. I love Jimin. I want--"

Just then the door opens, startling you to jump in Mrs. Barnes' safe arms.

"Jungkook?"

The prince pants uncontrollably, tears streaming down his face. His cheeks are blood red, hair a complete mess as he's pulled and ripped it from his skull, his shirt untucked, his words stuttered. The man is an emotionally distraught mess.

"Jungkook!" You bolt to him, immediately cupping his face and trying to force his panicking eyes to focus on you. "What happened to you?! What's wrong?"

The Prince chokes on a sob, barely able to speak without gasping, "...m-my parents..."

"What about your parents?"

"Th-They've been...assassinated."

::

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If you receive this, you make somebody happy! Go on anon and send this to ten of your followers who make you happy or somebody you think needs cheering up. If you get one back, even better! 💕💕

WHATTT this is so sweet 😭😭😭 whoever sent this, i love you!! and thank u 🥺❤️

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i binge read an unfinished series and i just noticed the author hasn’t posted anything since 2020 im about to end it all

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HE IS INSANE

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oh my god this is beautiful!! my heart is so full rn 🥺🥺

My favorite picture at the moment. His smile just makes everything better. Everytime I see him smile, my soul starts to heal 🥲

He is so amazing ☺️

Jimin x reader

No warnings

Don't fall in love with him.

Don't imagine his face when you shut your eyes. Don't think about him all Monday or daydream about him all Tuesday so by the time Wednesday comes around half your week is gone. Don't justify your struggle to focus or get chores done because you're too busy thinking about him.

For the love of god, don't look out the window when he leaves. Don't watch him walk across your yard to his parked car. Don't giggle like a school girl when he drops his keys. Don't stare at his ass when he bends down to them up. Don't sigh and rest your cheek in your hands when he chuckles at himself. Don't think of all of his flaws as idiosyncrasies that only make him more attractive.

Don't fall in love with him.

Don't fall in love with his hair. Don't fall in love with his clothes. Don't fall in love with his body shape or the way he walks. Don't fall in love with his voice. Don't fall in love with his sympathy or understanding. Don't fall in love with his maturity or ability to see right through all your masks. Don't fall in love with his sense of humor. And definitely don't fall in love with his eyes.

Don't fall in love with him.

Don't recall all the great inside jokes you guys have developed over the span of a few months. Don't remind yourself of how much better he makes you feel when he's with you. Don't forget your own flaws and reasons why he would never want to be with someone like you. Don't forget that he's way out of your league. Don't start thinking that just because he's nice to you, he wants anything more than a friendship.

Don't get your hopes up.

Don't memorize the way he looks when he smiles. Don't memorize the sound of his laugh for times when you're alone and lonely. Don't count yourself special because he calls you at 3am to talk about random shit. Don't think you're different because he hangs to the back of the crowd to walk next to you. Don't think he's interested because you caught him looking at you that one time.

Don't be naive.

Don't get excited because he's turning around and walking back to your front door. Don't take notice of the way he has to prepare himself to knock on your door. Don't breathe. Don't jump when you hear his knuckles tap on the wood. Don't open the door too quickly! Don't look desperate.

Don't stand there like an idiot and stare at him, for crying out loud. Don't forget to blink. Don't watch his lips when he talks. Don't forget to listen. Don't be rude when he asks to come back inside. Don't be nervous when he takes your hand. Don't trip over your words when you reply.

Don't forget to breathe.

Don't flinch when he leans in closer. Don't be too stiff. Don't be too loose. Don't hum when he kisses you. Don't forget to move your mouth too. Don't shiver when he whispers against your lips. Don't doubt him when he tells you he loves you.

Don't cry.

Don't ever listen to any advice that tells you don't.

Fall in love with him.