The Sugilite Prince

That night Sugi played the part of the attentive groom while still managing to keep Jimon close. The expectant bride was radiant, more beautiful than usual in her flattering dress. The newlyweds sealed their fate with a kiss, sweet and brief to the cheers of their many guests. Maeve was beyond happy. She thought her life had finally taken a turn for the better, but when her eyes found Jeon she noticed the tired look on Jeon’s face. He looked pale and worried. She felt bad for pushing him away and wondered if he was okay.

Just when she decided to approach him, Sugi pulled her way to meet his father. Sugi’s father was a tall and elegant man with strong features and even stronger arms. He had striking blue eyes and high cheekbones that looked nothing like his son whose features were soft and small and slightly feminine in their beauty. His kingly bearing was commanding and intimidated her leaving her to wonder if he disapproves of her marriage to his son. Maeve was naive and had limited knowledge of their world. When the king turned to meet her at his son’s request, she nearly fainted with fear. But while she was expecting his disapproval, instead she was met with a warm and friendly welcome to their family.

“I’m so glad to meet you Maeve. You have bewitched my son into marrying you,” he said with a wink and then glanced down to her baby belly, “and you have blessed him with an heir! We will toast to your health and happiness!”

Maeve didn’t know what to think. Was this a real welcome or just a show for their guests? Sugi looked pleased and happy, so taking his cue she also smiled.

After the banquet, Sugi escorted her back to her room. Maeve was very tired and hoped Sugi wouldn’t insist to stay with her that night. To her relief, he informed her that his father had requested his presence on some important matters of security. He wished her goodnight with a kiss to her forehead and left her with her personal maid. In spite of her worries, she soon fell asleep in her lonely bed on their wedding night.

Jimon covered his head when he heard the squeak of the door opening. He didn’t want Sugi to see his red-rimmed eyes. He had been crying thinking that Sugi would not join him in his bed. Jimon had already given up hope that he would come when the early morning light intruded into the room.

Sugi called his name softly, “Jimon, my sweet. Are you awake?”