Chapter 18

Lily sat near the window, gazing at the scenery outside, completely lost in thoughts of Jin. He had spent the entire day with her yesterday, but as morning came, he was already gone — off somewhere with his sword again.

She could only hope he wouldn’t return with another scar.

Ever since that incident, Jin always came back with fresh bruises. It worried her. Why was a prince being attacked so often in his own kingdom? Strange...

Her train of thought was interrupted by the familiar creak of the door opening, followed by a gentle knock. It was Yoona.

Relief washed over Lily. She hadn’t seen her in two days, and finally, she was home.

“Oh, Yoona!” Lily rushed toward her, concern etched on her face.

“Lily... are you okay?” Yoona asked.

“No, not me — are you okay? You were supposed to come yesterday. I was so worried!”

“Oh, calm down! I was going to, but the medicines arrived so late that— Wait... what is this? Why are you alone? Where’s Jin?”

“I don’t know. He left in the morning,” Lily replied.

“Oh, that boy...”

“Yeah, I know. But I don’t get it. He’s a prince, right?”

“Yeah,” Yoona answered while putting her bags down and settling into a chair.

“Then isn’t he supposed to spend more time at the palace? But he’s always out — every single day!”

Yoona let out a long sigh. “Yes… he’s a prince. But a different kind of prince. Honestly, every kingdom deserves someone like him... not just as a prince, but as a king.”

“A crown prince?”

“He told you everything?”

“Kind of.”

Yoona nodded. “The crown is meant for him. He’s the only one who truly deserves it.”

“But… he doesn’t have it?”

“No. He says it’s his fault the crown is gone. But I don’t think that’s the real reason.”

“What do you mean?”

“It’s not just a crown, Lily. It’s a holy crown.”

“A what?!”

Yoona leaned forward. “The key to keeping a holy relic is loyalty. Even the tiniest ounce of distrust disqualifies you. You’re no longer considered loyal.”

“But Jin—?”

“He’s loyal, without a doubt. He’s always loved his people. But… he blamed the crown for the kingdom’s distress — even if it was unconscious.”

“He wasn’t aware?”

Suddenly, the door swung open without warning.

“There he is!” Yoona jumped, startled by the abrupt entrance.

“You’re going to give me a heart attack one day!”

“Agreed!” Lily added, just as startled.

Jin stood in the doorway, laughing at their reactions. “Hahaha! You both look hilarious! I should do this more often.”

“Jin!”

“Oh, you’re back, Yoona!”

“Yes,” she replied.

“Where were you?” Lily asked in a worried tone.

“At the palace. And I’ve got some good news!” Jin said, settling down with them.

Yoona yawned, half-interested. “What news?”

“The queen confirmed — my little brother is out of town for a few days. He’s not even in the kingdom right now.”

“So?” Yoona raised an eyebrow.

“So... Lily doesn’t have to stay hidden for a while.”

“Jin, you know—”

“Yes, I know. But listen — Lucas is away for now, and the king and queen… well, they don’t really care about this situation. I know I shouldn’t rely on that, but still—”

“Jin, even if he’s not here—”

“I know. I just… I hate seeing Lily stuck inside, hiding every day.”

Lily walked up to him. “Jin, I’m fine. Really. We should avoid unnecessary risks. I don’t want to cause trouble for you.”

“I know, Lily. But I just want to spend time with you — not like this. Not in hiding. I want to take you to beautiful places… find some peace with you.”

Finally, Yoona gave in with a sigh. “Okay, okay. But be extra careful, Jin!”

“Sure, Yoona. I will,” he smiled. Then turned back to Lily. “Let’s go out this evening. Somewhere nearby.”

Lily nodded, though concern still lingered in her eyes.

Just then, Yoona spoke up, catching their attention. “Jin, Lily — I have to leave again tomorrow. My father’s coming to a nearby village. He wants to talk about something important, so he’s traveling all the way here.”

“Is everything okay?” Jin asked.

“Hope so.”

“Hm… let me know if anything’s bothering you.”

“I will. But you two — don’t create any chaos while I’m away.”

“We’ll try,” Jin replied, winking playfully.