Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

Another ball, another night of unbearable boredom.

Seoha stood near the banquet table tucked away in the far corner of the ballroom, fingers loosely wrapped around a glass she had long stopped drinking from. Her parents had dragged her here to "keep up appearances". She had only rolled her eyes at that.

Still, she did not entirely mind.

Nights like these meant elaborate gowns, glittering jewels, and, most importantly—

Court gossip.

Seoha had always loved listening to it — whispers of scandals hidden behind silk fans and quiet smiles.

And so with that in mind, she wove her way through the crowd. Seoha gave tiny nods and smiles out of politeness, but as soon as the people looked away, she dropped it at once. It was too much effort to keep it up all night. She knew most of them did not care nearly as much as they pretended to. They only ever cared about how others perceived them. If one little girl didn't smile or bow, it would just be the next gossip for a few days — but never more than that.

Seoha's feet carried her through the room, her gown flowing nicely as she moved with light steps. Finally, she found Yerin. They had been friends since childhood, their families close long before they were born. The first time they met, Seoha had been rather reluctant. Yerin had already loved the idea of having a friend. She did not care that Seoha might be a bit reserved. Yerin simply grabbed her arm and dragged her outside to play. Ever since then, they were inseparable. 

Seoha stopped beside Yerin. Her friend simply smiled and watched the people dance on the dance floor. Even if Seoha did not care much about how people saw her, she still followed etiquette. Yerin, much to her dismay, did not, so she had to tell her countless times not to hug her in public. It took years for Yerin to adjust, though she still hugged Seoha whenever they were alone.

"Tell me you have something interesting," Seoha said, not much interested in the men who wanted to dance with her.

Yerin stifled a chuckle behind her fan. She always found it amusing how Seoha just shut down any men after she completed the three dances her parents demanded of her. 

"Sadly, no. I only have news about the recently discovered controversy regarding the old duchess and one of her guards. According to the rumours, her husband did not mind at all. In fact, he . . . made him join them."

One of Seoha's brows lifted slightly. She did not expect that.

"Really?" Her eyes wandered over to where the duchess and her husband were dancing on the dance floor. "How intriguing."

Yerin leaned closer to Seoha now. A smirk covered her face behind the fan.

"But if you are so bored, why not give one of those noble men a chance to dance?"

Seoha gently pushed Yerin away, creating a more appropriate distance between them once again.

"Spare me. My feet already hurt from being stepped on countless times."

Yerin sighed before closing her fan, folding her hands behind her back. She was about to say something else when trumpets sounded and a man stepped forward.

"Hear, people! The king has a surprise for this gathering — and for all the following ones. The court has a new jester—"

Suddenly, a glass shattered somewhere in the background. Everyone turned around, some even shrieked at the unexpected noise. Mumbles began to fill the big room about what could have happened. People craned their necks just to get a better look at the scene. The sound of someone clearing their throat drew everyone's attention back. Everybody looked back, expecting the king's announcer to continue speaking.

But it was not him who cleared his throat. 

Standing in the middle of the room was now a man dressed in dark clothes and a jester's hat. He had a devious smile on his face as he regarded the nobility. All of them eyed him curiously, whispering to themselves. Some ladies even blushed, quickly hiding behind their fans when he smirked at them, bowing his head when he did so.

"Greetings, dear guests! I am your entertainment for this ball and the following — until the king tires of me," he took off his hat and bowed to the king. That earned the jester a pleased smile from him.

The king only waved his hand, urging the jester to start his performance. 

He performed as though the ballroom itself belonged to him. One moment he stood upon a table, reenacting some nobleman's failed attempt at dancing; the next, he moved gracefully through the crowd with a grin sharp enough to unsettle even the most composed ladies of the court.

The nobles laughed whenever he mocked them, too enchanted by his charm to realise they were the punchline.

Even the king struggled to hide his amusement.

Through it all, the nobles laughed their hearts out, but one person stayed quiet. Seoha, however, remained utterly unimpressed. Nothing about him amused her enough to laugh aloud, so she only stared at him in boredom. 

That is, until the jester stepped in front of her. He looked her dead in the eye and pulled her onto the dance floor with him, twirling and laughing into her ear before spinning her out so she would land beside Yerin again. Seoha was caught off guard, to say the least. She glared after him, the simmering anger visible in her rigid posture. Seoha's jaw clenched.

How dare he grab me like that without asking!

Yerin kept quiet for her own sake when she saw the state Seoha was in. The jester bowed to everyone except her. Nobody noticed — or perhaps nobody cared enough to.

But Seoha did.

And it enraged her beyond anything else. Not because he did not bow to her, but because he made a spectacle out of her.

Her eyes followed him as he walked away, close enough for her to hear him mutter, "You look terribly bored, my lady."

Seoha's head snapped toward him, only to catch the faintest of smirks before he disappeared into the crowd. Her fingers tightened into her gown, gripping it with such force that her knuckles turned white. Yerin hesitantly approached her, letting her fingers brush subtly over Seoha's elbow to get her attention.

"Let us go somewhere less crowded and get something to eat," Yerin urged before making sure Seoha was following her.

They wove through the crowd again before reaching a more secluded corner near the banquet tables. All the other guests were too enraptured in the gossip of the new court jester.

Seoha took a bite out of a strawberry, trying to will her mind to forget the humiliation. She stared at the banquet spread as though it had personally wronged her.

Yerin softly poked her side with the fan, quietly saying, "You look ready for murder."

Seoha scoffed. "That jester humiliated me. I have a right to look like this."

Around them, the music droned on. Nobles were beginning to dance once again, enjoying their time at court. 

As though the spectacle involving Seoha had never even happened.

Yerin walked over to her side.

"Let us enjoy ourselves tonight. Forget what happened earlier," Yerin pleaded, trying to console her.

Seoha reluctantly nodded. She should not dwell on such an insignificant encounter. The ball was already ruined for her, so accepting Yerin's offer was the logical next step.

"Of course . . . Now, back to the topic of the duchess and her husband."

The night went on like that. Lively music turned into slow waltzes before another fast song was played by the orchestra. The nobles laughed and got more relaxed as wine flowed freely until one noble stumbled into a banquet table before he was led out by some guards.

Everyone had a good time.

Except Seoha.

Her mind was elsewhere the entire time, even when she tried to think of other things.

Because that insufferable jester had managed to ruin even the little enjoyment she had found tonight.

Chapter Text

It had its advantages living in the palace. Seoha's father was a member of the royal council and one of the king's most trusted advisors. She had spent nearly her entire life living here among other noble families who were part of the council — Yerin's family included.

So it was not uncommon for Seoha to roam the palace grounds whenever she needed a little breather or simply had nothing better to do when she had already completed all of her responsibilities for the day.

Seoha loved exploring the palace as a little child. All the new faces, the court gossip from the elders and maids, the intriguing gowns from the women, and the beautiful courtyard where she could spend hours walking through the flower garden getting lost in her own mind.

Unfortunately, though, that day wasn't a relaxing one for Seoha. She had duties to attend to which were expected from a noble lady.

Her personal maid, Eunbi, came into her room, carefully opening the blinds to wake the girl up. Seoha groaned in protest as golden sunlight fell across her face. Immediately, she turned around and pulled the covers tighter around herself, hiding from the impending lessons Eunbi likely would start to list off.

The covers were promptly pulled away from her, exposing her to the morning air. Seoha sat up straight, hair messy and brows narrowed in slight annoyance.

It was safe to say that Seoha was not a morning person.

At all.

Eunbi huffed quietly before pulling out Seoha's dress for the day, hanging it on the divider once the lady finally decided to get up — which eventually she did, although rather reluctantly and with the help of Eunbi who pulled her to her feet.

"Lady Seoha, breakfast is getting cold," Eunbi urged, tugging on the younger girl's arm.

Seoha groaned and rolled her eyes. "Then tell breakfast to wait."

"Unfortunately, breakfast does not take orders from me."

With a small huff of frustration, Seoha followed Eunbi to the divider before slipping out of her nightgown. Eunbi helped her with the corset of her dress, pulling it tight until small complaints spilled out of the noble lady.

Mornings usually started like this, Seoha complaining while Eunbi quietly helped the gruff girl, hiding a smile since she knew it would only annoy Seoha more. Their dynamic could be described as one of an older sister looking out for her younger sibling. Eunbi had been assigned to Seoha when the girl was only fifteen. Eunbi herself was just eighteen and had been expected to help Seoha adjust to the rules of society before her sixteenth birthday.

It had been five years since then. 

Eunbi pulled tightly on the younger girl's corset strings, eliciting a breathless huff from Seoha. She gripped her vanity desk for support.

"Even if breakfast does not take orders from you, I still have to eat it and be able to swallow it."

That earned the duke's daughter a small chuckle from her maid.

"I am sorry, Lady Seoha."

Seoha rolled her eyes affectionately and gave her a small smile. She pulled out the brush and some accessories from the drawers for Eunbi as the maid finished up lacing her corset. A fitted ivory corset embroidered with silver thread, paired with a layered skirt that flowed around her ankles with every step. The sleeves draped softly from her shoulders, catching the golden morning light whenever she moved. Eunbi smiled secretly like a proud older sister before pulling out the chair from the vanity for Seoha before getting to work on her hair.

Seoha only stared off into the mirror. The humiliation from last night's ball still sat deep in her bones. The way that jester had just pulled her with him, not asking or bowing to her. 

No respect for her.

The sheer audacity of that fool!

His face seemed to appear in the mirror before her. She could practically see his dark brown eyes staring back at her, a small scar on his nose as he only smirked. The one which made her blood boil at the ball and which still haunted her.

She worked hard on her composure in court. Seoha always moved and talked according to the rules of society. So when a mere jester just thought to sweep in like that and destroy all of that, it made her want to wipe that smirk off of his face.

"My lady, if you glare any harder, the mirror might crack," Eunbi commented, placing golden accessories into Seoha's hair.

Seoha only scoffed under her breath.

"One can only hope."

She picked up the jewellery that matched her hair accessories and fastened it around her neck. The necklace accentuated the heart-shaped neckline of her dress, making it all feel in harmony with each other.

The day had only started and Seoha was already fed up.

A never-ending lesson about history and politics droned on while Seoha sat at her desk, staring out into the courtyard. She had already heard it countless times, yet her teacher thought it necessary to repeat it for the seventy-eighth time — yes, she kept count. 

Her teacher, an older man in his fifties, cleared his throat, stepping in front of her line of sight. "Lady Seoha, are you listening?"

He tried to sound nice and understanding, though she could hear the slight disdain between his words. Seoha corrected him one too many times during their lessons, hurting this man's ego in the process. He already thought less of women, so a woman speaking up like that — correcting him no less — was unacceptable in his eyes. However, he kept his mouth shut since that girl was higher in rank than him because of her father.

"Yes, I am. It is important to keep good relations with our neighbouring kingdoms, keeping it fair but internally having the upper hand," she recited, staring past the man for whom she had no respect — though she kept that feeling hidden much better than him.

The teacher held back an eye-roll, shutting his book before deciding for the lesson to be over.

"You're dismissed, Lady Seoha."

At once she stood up and marched out of the room. Eunbi immediately followed her, accompanying her to the next appointment. Seoha made sure that Eunbi would always be by her side during lessons and other responsibilities. That way, Eunbi would indirectly absorb wisdom herself since servants and maids had no proper education. In the early years, Eunbi even learned to write and read from Seoha. The two of them had always enjoyed it since it meant to read some stories.

"Where to now?" Seoha grumbled.

"You have luncheon with Lady Han, My Lady."

That made Seoha smile slightly, looking over at Eunbi.

"Han Yerin?"

Eunbi smiled slyly before nodding. "Precisely."

Just this morning, Seoha looked over her schedule and saw no name of her friend on that paper. She had only glanced over it briefly but she was sure the name of her very dear friend would have stood out to her. Seoha eyed her maid curiously now.

"Have you pulled something once again, Eunbi?"

The maid only shrugged in feigned innocence. "It seemed like the paper had a mind of its own, Lady Seoha. Devious little thing."

Seoha chuckled, both of them heading to the lounge room in the east wing of the castle. On their way, though — and to Seoha's dismay — they spotted several servants further down the corridor.

And the jester.

Seoha shot Eunbi a displeased look, one that made Eunbi nearly giggle. And the worst part: there was no other way to the east wing. The younger girl watched their interaction from afar, noticing a few differences from the previous ball in his demeanour.

He seemed less obnoxious, she thought to herself. For some reason, the jester had more respect towards the servants — or at the very least treated them with more kindness. This revelation only fuelled Seoha's irritation towards him.

If he could treat servants and maids with kindness, why could he not do the same for the nobility?

Or her.

As they walked past, Seoha inclined her head politely, her eyes lingering on him longer. The servants curtsied for the noble lady.

"Good afternoon, Lady Seoha."

But the jester stood still, simply smirking at her as they walked past. Seoha's eyes roamed over his features, assessing him. They locked onto a small discolouration on his neck. A birthmark? A love-bite? She did not know, but she hoped for the latter since she could write him off as a rake that way. Though the shape was too much like a heart to be caused by external force.

His eyes did the same, roaming over her features and committing every bit to memory. How her brows knit together in frustration, the small twitch of displeasure on her lips and how her fingers seemed to tighten in her dress. It only seemed to deepen his smirk.

With a dramatic bow of his head, he let out an amused, "Lady Seoha," in greeting.

Eunbi, sensing the small shift in the air, spoke up to get Seoha's attention again.

"My Lady, your rendezvous is awaiting you for tea."

Seoha immediately pulled her eyes away from the jester, focusing on the hallway in front of them. She cursed herself in her head for letting him get under her skin again. The audacity of sounding so amused as he regarded her practically made her skin burn.

"Of course. Lead the way, please."

Eventually, they reached the lounge room. Eunbi pushed open the doors for the lady before stepping aside to let her enter. Yerin was already perched on a sofa, tea in hand as she talked animatedly with her own personal maid. Said maid looked rather exhausted but still gave a kind smile to Yerin. One could see that even if Yerin talked her ear off from time to time, she still adored her lady. Yerin just had a presence around her that made even the coldest people melt for her — if only just a little.

At Seoha's entrance, Yerin's head whipped around. A huge smile crossed her face as she set down the tea and stood up to greet her friend. In quick strides, Seoha came over and let her best friend hug her before sitting down beside her on the plush sofa.

"Perfect timing! I was just talking about the wedding preparations. Did you know how exhausting they are?"

Seoha only shook her head in slight amusement. She knew how hard weddings and engagements could be. It was one reason why she was always so cold towards suitors — but she also was not interested in them. The ladies had to plan the celebration, think about the guest list, seating arrangements, what flowers to use. The list went on and on.

"One can imagine how hard it must be. How are you and Lord Taeyang holding up, though?" Seoha asked, taking a sip from her cup of tea.

"We are well," Yerin said. "The marriage is arranged but we still care for one another. Lord Taeyang is nice enough to me, so I am happy. The good thing is, I can still continue to live here, so you will not have to miss me."

Seoha regarded her friend with slight worry. Being married away just like that sounded exhausting. Yerin was lucky to be engaged with someone who was kind to her.

Yerin shifted closer, clearly moved on from the topic of her love-life.

"On another topic, I have heard some rumours about the new court jester. I am sure you of all people remember him," she stated smugly, knowing it was a sensitive subject for Seoha but could not help herself to tease her friend.

Seoha's jaw ticked just a bit before nodding. It would be a lie if she said she was not intrigued, though.

"What did you hear?" she asked.

Yerin gave her a pleased smile before she shared her new findings. 

"Apparently, no one knows where he came from. He just appeared," she paused. "However, he introduced himself to the staff and servants as 'Jay'. Weird name, right?"

Seoha's eyes narrowed. "Indeed it is. Maybe it is his jester's name?"

Her friend only shrugged before nodding along. It seemed plausible somehow. Still, it was intriguing why there was so little information about a mere court jester.

"Anyway," Yerin began, "what about you and your suitors? You're twenty-one years old, people are already talking about Lady Seoha rejecting another suitor. Even your father has become a topic of conversation  . . . How beside himself he must be."

Seoha only rolled her eyes in annoyance upon hearing that. She had no interest in them nor marriage. It merely seemed like a waste of time to her, so she made quick work with shooting down any hope for these men.

"Do not worry about me, dear friend. I have carried that reputation for years. And my father is already used to my displeasure towards suitors," she said, emptying her tea cup before standing up.

Seoha gave Yerin an earnest smile. "I am telling the truth. I really am fine."

Yerin gave her a suspicious look before standing up herself and hugging her friend. "I believe you, and I wish you a nice day."

Eunbi opened the door for Seoha before stepping out behind her, leaving a slightly concerned Yerin behind.

At last, after several more hours of mingling with the other court ladies, Seoha was able to relax. She told Eunbi she herself could rest as she was just spending her time in the music room in the west wing on the ground floor. Seoha pushed open the door quietly before closing it behind her, making sure she did not alert anyone. Her feet carried her over to the piano in the middle of the room. Other instruments, like guitars or flutes, lay around the room, all neatly placed where they belonged. 

She lit some candles around the room, illuminating it in a soft glow. Her eyes wandered over to the glass doors where she knew the cat — which she lovingly named Bam, like the night — sat right outside. Seoha walked over to the door and opened it for him.

"Ready for another session?" she asked and smiled, picking him up into her arms. The cat immediately purred in her arms as she began walking over to the piano, sitting down and setting him on it in front of her.

Seoha opened the piano and rested her hands above the keys, placing her feet lightly on the pedals beneath before deciding which song she would play that night.

Her fingers moved gracefully over the keys, the years of playing piano obvious in her skill. Seoha closed her eyes, letting the rhythm and music take over as Bam began to purr lowly. She was in her own little world in here. No disturbances, no nobles demanding something of her — just her, Bam and the music. It gave her comfort and offered a safe haven after a long day as everything seemed to fade into the background.

It was perfect for her.

A place where no one expected anything from her.

No lessons.

No suitors.

No court politics.

The music carried softly through the night air, drifting out into the palace gardens beyond. But Seoha never noticed the shadow lingering beyond the glass doors. Never noticed the figure standing quietly beneath the lantern light. And she certainly never noticed the dark eyes watching her fingers glide across the piano keys.

Watching as she smiled.

Watching as she laughed softly when Bam stepped across the keys.

Watching as she became something entirely different from the noble lady he had met at the ball.

And for the first time since arriving at the palace, Jay stood still long enough to listen.

Chapter Text

The palace was bustling with hurried servants and busy ladies. The spring festival was happening that day and everything had to be perfect for the king and queen. Every important person would be attending, so it was of utmost importance for the king to represent his court in perfect glory once again. 

Seoha was rushing down the hallway, papers in hand, reviewing the list of important names she had yet to memorise. Eunbi was following her every step, a bouquet of flowers in her hand for the young lady to choose from for the festival. Seoha took her skirts into her hands, walking faster to the meeting room she was supposed to be in.

A corset of pale lavender hugged Seoha's figure, its surface adorned with delicate silver embroidery that glimmered beneath the morning light. Layers of soft chiffon cascaded from her waist in flowing waves, pooling around her feet with every step. Sheer sleeves draped from her shoulders like mist, embroidered with silver vines that shimmered whenever she moved. The entire gown seemed to catch the light, transforming the soft purple fabric into something almost ethereal. She looked less like a lady of the court and more like something pulled from a fairytale. Eunbi had specifically chosen it for the royal event.

The sharp clicks of Seoha’s heels came to a stop in front of the room before she pushed open the large wooden doors. Heads turned in her direction as the lady finally joined them. A few disapproving glances were exchanged before she was finally included in the discussion. Yerin was immediately by her side, as if to reassure her that arriving a minute late would not ruin the kingdom.

"Splendid, now that everyone has finally decided to grace us with their presence, let us go over the guest list and today's program one final time," the older lady announced, her tone leaving no room for objection.

Seoha tried to listen to it — she really did — but she still had to go through the guest list in her head since she had to greet each and every one of the guests with their respective title and name. It was crucial to do so, otherwise rumours would start about her being 'disrespectful' and 'improper'. She could not allow such rumours to be added to her already wavering reputation regarding her marital status.

Fortunately, the meeting proceeded smoothly, with Seoha only needing to comment on the flower arrangements. The meeting was soon dismissed. But the festival was only about to start.

And Seoha had not even had time to eat anything.

The sun shone down on the palace courtyard as guests slowly trickled in. Everything was perfect now. The flowers, the little tables laden with pastries and refreshments, the servants always ready to tend to the needs of the nobles.

Everything was perfect.

Seoha was standing at the entrance, receiving the lords and ladies before guiding them to the king and queen. It went on like that for a few hours before Yerin came to switch places.

"Lady Han to your rescue," she joked lightly, placing a hand on Seoha's shoulder.

She smiled at her in silent gratitude before heading off to mingle with the guests. She had to uphold a semblance of kindness to some nobles to preserve good connections for her family and her own reputation. It was always good to have people who supported you after all.

However, the long hours under the sun, combined with the strain of smiling and conversing with guests, had taken their toll, only adding to Seoha's growing dizziness.

She should have eaten something that morning, but she had not had the time for that. The preparations had taken up too much time. 

Small black spots danced across her vision, and a faint ringing filled her ears, but she quickly regained her balance to keep going. Seoha had barely made it halfway through the gardens before the world tilted. The young lady stopped beside a stone bench before sitting down, pressing a hand against her temple.

"Well, that's concerning."

Seoha looked up at the sudden voice and frowned.

Of course it was him.

Seoha tried to focus her eyes on him, squaring her shoulders. "I am glad it is none of your concern, then."

Jay did not let her attitude deter him and promptly sat down beside her.

"You look one strong breeze away from collapsing," he stated.

She shot him an annoyed look at his bluntness.

"And you look unemployed."

"A cruel thing to say to the king's favourite entertainer."

He smirked at her, finding joy in riling Seoha up and getting her out of her skin. As he did, his gaze swept over her features, noticing a slight haziness to them. It did not take long for him to piece everything together. Not eating or drinking anything on such a hot day was not exactly ideal.

"Have you eaten today?" he pressed on.

"Yes," Seoha said, rolling her eyes.

"You're lying. And — by the by — you're terrible at it."

"How would you know?" she shot back, already defensive. 

"Because people who have eaten don't usually look seconds away from collapsing."

Seoha was ready to shoot back a response but Jay already stood up, walking away. Good, she thought. Maybe he would finally leave her alone.

But her brief moment of hope was soon crushed by his return.

Jay had successfully stolen a pastry from a servant's tray. The poor man had not even realised the jester was behind him before the pastry had already vanished.

He came back and handed the pastry to the annoyed noble lady in front of him.

"Eat," he urged.

Seoha scrunched up her nose. "I do not take orders from mere jesters."

Jay rolled his eyes in exasperation.

"Wonderful. Faint, then."

A short silence followed before she clenched her jaw at her predicament. On one hand, she knew she would faint soon if she refused. On the other hand, though, it would hurt her ego — a pride he had already bruised once before.

The logical solution won out in the end.

With obvious reluctance, she accepted the pastry and bit down on it. Immediately, the sweetness hit her tongue, drawing a quiet sigh from her lips.

She really was starving.

Jay did not linger much longer, just walking away after he made sure Seoha at least bit into it. He turned around promptly to get back to his duties as the court jester. Though a small, satisfied smile played on his lips as he walked back to the hustle and bustle.

Seoha stared after him, narrowed eyes following his movements before Jay disappeared into the crowd. A quiet grumble escaped her before she takes another bite of her pastry, finishing it quickly and dusting her hands off.

Water.

She needed water now.

And probably a quiet moment to stop thinking about that insufferable jester.

Thankfully, the day went over without any of Jay's further mockery for Seoha. The nobles had a splendid afternoon with all the entertainment and delicious food the king provided for them. Seoha did enjoy the day.

Still, she was relieved when the festival finally came to an end.

Yerin came up to her as the servants took down the flower decorations. She grabbed her best friend's hands and spun her around once, drawing a few quiet chuckles from Seoha before she regained her composure.

"What are you doing, Yerin?" she prompted.

Yerin shrugged and smiled at her friend. "You seemed like you could use some cheering up. I saw you glowering throughout the whole event," she said, letting go of Seoha's hands.

Seoha huffed and shook her head. The moment with Jay came to her mind again and she immediately looked ready to let a head roll.

"I was only a little dizzy. I am fine now."

Yerin looked Seoha up and down, inspecting her state once she heard that. Seoha looked slightly paler than usual, maybe even a bit shaky. Frowning gently, she rubbed her friend's arms up and down, trying to help her feel better. Yerin called a servant over who happened to pass by.

"Would you have some tea sent to the sitting room?" she asked.

The servant nodded before disappearing into the palace towards the kitchen. Seoha frowned and shook her head, silently telling her that she really was fine. But Yerin had none of that and guided her inside, away from the heated air and back to the safe shelter the palace provided.

Once inside, they sat down in the sitting room. The sun shone through the windows, though not nearly as harshly as it had outside, leaving the room pleasantly warm. The servant entered after a soft knock, carrying a tray with two steaming teacups. She carefully sat them down on the small table in front of the two ladies before bowing and taking her leave, closing the door silently behind her.

The two noble ladies reached for a cup each, blowing gently on the tea before taking a sip. There was something comforting about the quiet. No aimless chatter with some nobles who only cared about themselves. No ridiculous orders from an even more ridiculous jester.

Just silence with her dear friend.

The two of them sat like that for a couple of moments before setting down their now-empty cups.

"You are quite exhausted these days," Yerin said. 

It was not a question.

Seoha sighed and looked out of the windows. Butterflies flew around in the gardens. The soft breeze made the flowers sway ever so slightly, dancing with the wind. It looked peaceful. A stark contrast to the turbulent thoughts swimming inside Seoha's mind.

She was exhausted.

Not physically anymore. Her body and head felt fine now, but emotionally. Earlier at the festival, noble ladies kept vaguely asking her about her plans for the future, when she intended to take a husband and whether she had found a suitable suitor yet. Of course, they all had kind, false smiles on their faces, letting just enough distaste shimmer through their words to not be considered rude.

But Seoha knew exactly what lay beneath their words. She had grown accustomed to it long ago. However, lately, the questions were more frequent than in the past. That was not even the worst part.

They lingered longer in her mind now, too.

Seoha's eyes slowly dragged back to Yerin, a huff leaving her lips.

"Maybe so. The expectations are simply harder to ignore these days," she said. "You need not worry, though."

Her friend simply met her gaze, considering if she should press on or leave it be. Yerin knew Seoha could handle herself and overcome any obstacle thrown her way.

Because she was smart.

But that also meant Seoha was too cunning for most of the noblemen. Over time, they realised she would simply outsmart them — and many noblemen disliked the idea of being outmatched by a woman. For better or worse, her number of suitors was steadily dwindling with every passing year.

Alas, Yerin decided not to push her further. Seoha was tired, so the only thing Yerin could do was be there for her. 

So she changed the subject.

"I heard the duchess Lady Choi had a fling with one of her dear cousins," Yerin smirked, knowing she had her friend's attention now thanks to one of the bizarre gossip stories she had picked up at the festival earlier.

Seoha's nose scrunched up in utter disgust and disbelief.

"Lady Choi does realise they are related, no?" Seoha asked, her eyes searching Yerin's, hoping to find some trace of a lie. Unfortunately, there was not.

Yerin took that as her cue to continue, telling Seoha all about the scandalous details she had heard.

In the end, Yerin succeeded in making her smile.

The palace was now shrouded in darkness. Everyone was in bed by now, sleeping. Hours ago, Eunbi left Seoha in her quarters, wishing her lady a good night before disappearing out of her room. No sound could be heard. Everything was silent.

Only Seoha lay awake in her bed, staring at the ceiling. Since Yerin was not here to distract her, the thoughts from earlier came creeping back. It made her toss and turn in her bed, trying to will herself to sleep, but it was futile. Seoha's mind rebelled against her, making her sit up in utter frustration. She ran a hand over her face before standing up, deciding to go on a midnight stroll through the palace.

It was not unusual for her to be walking the hallways at night. They reminded her that even the palace could be quiet at times, not always as overwhelming as it was during the day. No one was around. No one would bother her.

And that was precisely what she needed at that moment.

The cold marble floor pressed against her bare feet as Seoha wandered the silent corridors. She had no destination in mind, merely wandering and letting the moonlight wash over her skin through the windows. The soft ivory silk of her nightgown touched the floor as her feet carried her to the next corridor. 

She was so deep in her mind that she did not see the eyes following her every move.

Eventually, she reached the kitchen. Maybe a glass of milk would help her sleep better, she thought. Seoha searched for a glass before filling it with milk from one of the containers. Careful not to make much noise, she set the container down again. The lukewarm milk soothed her throat, and the glass was empty before she knew it.

She explored the kitchen for another short while, since she was hardly ever here, before exiting the room. Seoha was just about to round the corner to get back to her own wing of the palace, when she nearly collided with a chest. Luckily, her feet came to an abrupt stop before such things could happen. Her gaze shot upward in alarm before narrowing to slits.

It was Jay.

"Either you're terrible at being a lady, or I'm terrible at being sneaky," he said, smirking at her like he had no care in the world.

"Are you perhaps stalking me? How is it that I always run into you of all people?" she managed to press out, careful not to raise her voice.

Jay only shrugged and leaned against the wall, folding his arms. "I could ask you the same thing, Lady Seoha."

Her brow twitched at his obvious mocking undertone as he uttered her title. Seoha clicked her tongue, looking away towards the windows before she met his dark brown eyes again.

"I do not have to explain myself to you, jester."

Jay chuckled, pushing off the wall and shoving his hands into his trousers. His gaze travelled over her frame before fixing on her footwear — or rather the lack thereof. 

"A bit cold, isn't it? I guess it's the latest fashion trend?" he asked.

Seoha rolled her eyes and grumbled, letting her nightgown cover her feet. "For your information, it is night and no one is awake."

Jay smirked. He enjoyed just how fast he could rile her up with the simplest of things. She was almost like a little kid who did not get what she asked for. Jay could only imagine what her childhood had been like. She probably always got what she wanted, like every other noble.

He was about to say something about her appearance when he heard something from down the hall. Jay's head immediately whipped around to the sound coming from behind him, instinctively stepping slightly in front of Seoha to block her from view.

Jay might always mock her, but he knew what rumours could do to a lady's reputation. If guards saw them on their night patrol together, it would only start unnecessary court gossip.

His eyes narrowed when the distinct sound of marching footsteps grew closer.

"Go to bed."

Seoha narrowed her eyes at him. "What? Why—"

Jay fixed her with a stern expression, punctuating every word.

"Go. To. Bed, Seoha. Now."

The footsteps grew closer and Seoha could hear them now. She shared a quick look with Jay. Lingering annoyance, confusion, but also gratitude flashed in her eyes. 

It took everything in her to mutter out the next words.

"Thank you," Seoha said, and meant it.

She took the skirts of her nightgown into her hands before rushing down the hall. Her loose hair streamed behind her as she ran.

Jay watched her disappear until the quick pat of her bare feet no longer echoed against the floor. He promptly turned around, greeting the soldiers.

"Gentlemen, how's the night going?"

The two of them chuckled at Jay's lightheartedness before falling into a short conversation.

Meanwhile, Seoha was panting inside her room, collapsing onto her bed. Her heart was beating wildly in her chest, making it the only sound she could hear for a short moment before the adrenaline wore off. 

Before she could replay his words in her head.

Jay had called her by her name — without her title.

Chapter Text

The curtains were drawn open, allowing sunlight to spill across Seoha's face. Eunbi hummed softly to herself as she pulled the covers from her.

"Rise and shine, my lady."

The girl in bed did not stir.

After her encounter with the palace jester the night before, sleep had become surprisingly difficult to find. By the time she had finally drifted off, dawn had been approaching.

So when Eunbi attempted to wake her now, Seoha merely buried her face deeper into the pillow. Eunbi huffed and placed her hands on her hips, looking at the younger girl like a disapproving mother would. Normally, it was enough to pull the covers off to get a reaction from Seoha.

But she just lay there like a dead girl.

A frown crossed Eunbi's features, taking a step closer to the sleeping girl and pushing a strand of hair out of her face. Her hand pressed flat against her forehead.

No fever.

Seoha groaned before burying her face deeper into her pillow. The maid rolled her eyes before gently pulling on Seoha's arms. The young lady all but whined as she was pulled from sleep and effectively out of bed. She slumped down against her bed, legs pulled to her chest as she rested her forehead against the knees. Eunbi slipped an arm beneath Seoha's and hauled her to her feet.

Seoha could barely function that morning.

"Up! What could you have possibly done during the night that left you so sleepy?" she huffed, dragging Seoha to her vanity to sit down.

The young lady just shrugged noncommittally. The events from last night flashed through her mind. Seoha could only internally roll her eyes.

"That man was insufferable," she grumbled to herself.

Eunbi, meanwhile,  was brushing the girl's hair. She lifted a brow at the incoherent mumbling coming from Seoha.

"Could you repeat that, Lady Seoha?"

Seoha glared down at the vanity table, giving her maid the supplies for her hair.

"That improper jester."

A sly smile came onto Eunbi's lips. She had noticed the young lady's mood swings around Jay. She was more on edge, annoyed and angry. Perhaps it was because he simply treated her differently than all the other people did.

Eunbi remembered how Seoha rambled on to her about said man before going to bed. How annoying he was. How he had no respect for her. How insufferable he was.

"You speak about him rather often."

The young girl immediately straightened up. "I do not."

"You do."

"Only because he is irritating," she said, rolling her eyes.

Eunbi stifled a snicker, finishing her hair. "Of course." 

Seoha reluctantly stood up and shuffled after Eunbi over to the divider. The maid opened the closet and looked through the lady's gowns. After a moment of consideration, Eunbi finally pulled one gown from the wardrobe.

The gown was the colour of a cloudless midnight sky. Silver thread traced delicate patterns along the fitted bodice before disappearing into flowing layers of dark blue fabric. Crystal beads, sewn sparingly among the embroidery, caught the morning sunlight whenever she moved.

The maid quickly helped Seoha into the dress, tightening the lace just enough to not constrain her. Eunbi made sure that the fabric sat perfectly on her lady before turning her around to face her.

"Are you fit to go have breakfast?" she asked gently.

Seoha gave her a reassuring smile that barely reached her eyes. She did not want to worry her longtime friend. After all, it was her own fault for not being able to sleep and roam the palace.

"Let us get to breakfast now."

The walk was tedious. Seoha nearly tripped over her own heels every third step. Eunbi kept close to her, making sure the young lady would not embarrass herself in front of passing palace staff and servants. Every so often, she squinted at the morning light shining through the large windows before they finally arrived at the breakfast pavilion overlooking the gardens.

The duke and duchess were already seated, waiting for their daughter. Seoha's father shot her a questioning glance because of her rather late arrival. Eunbi guided her to the table, pulling out a chair for her lady before stepping back towards the wall where the other servants stood. Her mother was more concerned, immediately noticing the faint shadows beneath her daughter's eyes. They looked less fierce than usual, lacking their distinctive spark.

"How was your night, dear?" her mother asked softly.

Seoha cleared her throat, forcing herself to sit upright. "It was good."

Her mother did not believe her one bit, but she did not push her daughter. She was old enough to decide what to share and what to keep a secret. The duchess focused back on her breakfast, the table falling silent again aside from the occasional clatter of cutlery. 

"I have heard you once again corrected Court Scholar Yoon. He was not very pleased," the duke suddenly said, amusement curling under his tone.

The young lady remained silent for a moment, remembering her politics lesson. That old man might have been a Court Scholar, but he was rather incompetent in her eyes. It was just natural for her to correct him. After all, she was not a hopelessly naïve girl anymore.

Seoha took a sip from her water. "I do not understand his dislike. He was simply wrong."

Her father hid a small smile at his daughter's words. He admired her ability to speak her mind while still disguising it beneath proper etiquette. It was a crucial asset in politics — and his sweet daughter had it.

He placed his cutlery down, having finished his breakfast. "Perhaps you should not make it so obvious next time," he said. "It would only hurt his fragile ego."

The duchess stifled a chuckle with her hand. She cherished that quality in her husband. Unlike many noblemen, he never sought to silence their daughter. It was one of the reasons why Seoha's mother fell in love with the duke during their courtship.

Seoha's father stood up, placing his hands on the table before he announced, "Seoha, would you like to sit in on a meeting this time? Court Scholar Yoon and other important officials would be present to discuss proposed changes to the kingdom's educational curriculum. Perhaps you could learn something."

She perked up at that. A challenge gleamed in her father's eyes.

"From Court Scholar Yoon?" she asked. "Unlikely."

A chuckle left her mother's lips, even drawing a smirk from her father. Seoha simply smiled slyly before she nodded, agreeing to accompany her father.

For the first time that morning, the prospect of the day ahead did not seem entirely dreadful.

Not even ten minutes had passed before Seoha found something wrong with Court Scholar Yoon's argument. She focused on the table for as long as she could before she could no longer hold her tongue. The duke already knew what was about to happen and leaned back in his seat, letting his daughter speak. 

"Students should focus on memorising the classics," Yoon said.

Seoha straightened up, not being able to take any more of his words. "Memorisation has its place, but a student who merely repeats another man's thoughts will never produce any of their own," she said. "If scholars are only taught what to think and never how to think, we should not be surprised when they fail to recognise their own mistakes."

Scholar Yoon narrowed his eyes at her. Clearly, he was not fond of her interjection. Some people around the table began to whisper amongst themselves.

Yoon's jaw ticked before he went on. "Now, now. The curriculum has served us for generations. These methods have worked for years," he tutted.

She shot him an unimpressed look. "So have candles. That does not mean we should reject lanterns."

Some men actually chuckled at that, making a faint flush appear on Court Scholar Yoon's face.

"A kingdom benefits little from intelligent nobles ruling over an uneducated population," she went on.

Yoon gave her a sharp glare. "Questioning teachers would only encourage disrespect. We cannot have that."

It was an obvious hint at her own behaviour towards him during their own lessons. The duke smiled slyly to himself, hiding it behind a feigned move to touch his beard. He did not stop Seoha. Not once.

"Respect should not protect ignorance," she simply stated.

Silence.

Court Scholar Yoon was fighting for his dignity as the duke tried not to laugh out loud while the duchess looked up at the ceiling. Other nobles had to suppress their own chuckles while some actually seemed interested in Seoha's words. 

Unfortunately, though, not all of them.

"Why should we listen to a mere noblewoman who speaks out of turn?" one of them argued.

That question only made Seoha's blood boil. Of course someone would eventually say that. She already expected it the second she spoke up against Yoon. Men seldom took a woman's opinion seriously.

Seoha was about to argue when she suddenly saw a figure sitting on a windowsill behind the servants, totally relaxed as if he had every right to be here. Jay only smirked at her before he winked. A furious flush covered the tips of her ears.

Luckily, Eunbi was in the room, standing quietly to one side when she noticed Seoha falter. She quickly went up and whispered something into said girl's ear.

"This is your chance to get out now and escape. You did well, Lady Seoha," Eunbi said, making it seem like something important which warranted Seoha's immediate presence.

Seoha's eyes stayed on Jay as she told the people her last opinion. 

"Because ignorance does not become wisdom merely because it is spoken by a man. If noblewomen are expected to advise their husbands, manage estates, and represent their families, why should they remain ignorant of politics?" 

She did not linger any longer, bowing her head in respect before following Eunbi out.

The door clicked shut behind them before a figure stepped out from around the corner. Jay leaned against the wall in utter amusement — and perhaps a hint of intrigue. Seoha simply narrowed her eyes at him.

"Were you supposed to be there?"

"Absolutely not," he admitted without any shame.

Eunbi remained off to the side as Jay took a step closer, his eyes never leaving Seoha's. "You corrected a man twice your age in front of the entire court?"

"He was wrong," she simply stated, no remorse in her eyes.

"Ah. My mistake. Clearly his pride deserved to perish."

The lady blinked, taken aback by his joke before she had to resist the urge to chuckle. Jay noticed it, how her lips twitched just the slightest bit, how her eyes twinkled with amusement.

"Do you always speak your mind?" he asked.

It took her a second to respond, wanting to understand why he suddenly asked such a thing.

"Yes. I do," she said. "If I find fault in an argument, I will point it out. I am certain you have heard my words in there, and I stand by every one of them."

For a split second, Jay's expression morphed into something like admiration before he schooled it back to his usual mocking demeanour. Somehow, the lady before him intrigued him. He had never met a noblewoman with such a sharp tongue as Seoha.

Seoha's breath caught in her throat in surprise when he invaded her personal space. She wanted to step back but her feet stayed rooted in place somehow. Quickly, though, she regained her composure and glared up at him.

And fierce, too, he noticed.

Without Eunbi noticing, he slipped a small paper into her hand. Their fingers brushed for a split second before Jay took a step back again.

"You're quite clever, Lady Seoha. But can you solve a riddle?"

Her jaw clenched when he mocked her title once again. However, Seoha's attention was quickly pulled to his last question. The paper in her hand wrinkled slightly as her grip tightened.

"Are you questioning my intelligence?" she asked, lifting a brow in annoyance.

Jay smirked and tilted his head in challenge. "Prove me wrong," he said before disappearing down the hallway.

Seoha started after him, the paper in her hand suddenly feeling more important than it did just moments ago. Eunbi stepped closer again and gave her a sly smile. The lady only huffed and shook her head at her friend. The maid chuckled and began to walk down the hallway with the younger girl.

"I did not say a thing, Lady Seoha."

"But you thought it. Spare me, please."

"As you wish, my lady," Eunbi said, but she could not contain her own chuckle any longer.

Five hours had passed before Seoha could finally take a look at the small paper Jay had given her. The lady's earlier tight hold on the paper made it crumble quite a bit, so she had to take one of her books to smooth the paper out again. She bit her lip in anticipation as to what could possibly be written on it. Her delicate fingers smoothed out the cracks before her eyes flew over the words.

『

You claim to be clever.

Prove it.

When the sun has abandoned the sky, seek the place where nobles never look and servants know every secret.

Come alone.

』

Seoha's eyes narrowed in outrage. She did not claim to be clever — she was. 

And she would prove it.

So she waited patiently for the sun to set. Eunbi was still with her in the lady's quarters. She eyed her curiously as said lady kept glaring at the ceiling in her bed. Seoha seemed lost in thought, captured in her own head.

"Has the ceiling disrespected you, my lady?"

Seoha snapped out of her head once Eunbi's voice rang out. Truthfully, she tried to piece together Jay's words. And she nearly succeeded in finding out what place he meant.

"Not quite," Seoha said. "I am just giving it a lecture to not fall on my head."

The corners of Eunbi's lips twitched upwards before she stood up, bowing her head.

"I will leave you to your reprimands, then. If you need anything, just ring the bell," Eunbi said, walking over to the door.

Seoha gave her a small smile. "Goodnight, Eunbi."

"Goodnight, Lady Seoha." Eunbi smiled and closed the door quietly behind her.

The lady's mind drifted back to the possible places the riddle could be referring to. It could be a supply closet where the servants would gossip from time to time. It could also very well be a place in town. However, she did not believe Jay would try to lead her there. There was only one other option she could think of.

The kitchens.

At once, her feet swung over the bed and into her plush slippers before Seoha was out of her bedroom. She walked down, out of her wing, before she reached the lower levels of the palace. 

Suddenly, there were footsteps. Two people. Probably the guards who did their nightly routine to secure the palace. Seoha swiftly hid behind a corner, her breath hitching as the guards passed by.

But she was not quick enough it seemed.

"Did you hear that?" one of them asked. The other only grumbled and nodded before they advanced to Seoha's corner hesitantly.

She squeezed her eyes shut, not knowing what she should possibly do right now — but then another noise from down the hall saved her. The guards' heads snapped over to that direction, abandoning Seoha behind the corner. A relieved sigh escaped her before she swiftly took off to get to the kitchens.

Her heart thrummed faster as she could finally push open the doors to the room where no noble would ever look. Seoha's eyes swept over the still kitchen. There was nothing that seemed out of place at first glance, but she needed more light to be sure. She spotted a few small candles near a shelf and promptly took them, lighting them to illuminate the room. The candlelight reflected on the pans and silverware as Seoha looked through the cupboards. 

Time dragged on and she grew more and more frustrated. Seoha was certain this was the place the riddle was talking about. She placed the candle on a nearby counter before she slid down against it, letting out a small, almost defeated huff. She was nearly about to admit defeat when her eyes swept over a small cupboard on the floor. It could be easily overlooked — a perfect spot to hide something.

Instantly, she crawled over to it, her nightgown dragging across the floor; but she did not care. Her fingers grabbed the handles tightly before pulling them open. Cleaning supplies were stored there, already seemingly forgotten since dust had already settled onto them.

Then her eyes locked on a small piece of paper.

Seoha immediately took it and unfolded it.

『

Congratulations.

You are slightly less disappointing than I expected.

』

Anger and frustration rippled through her — and maybe a bit of hurt. Seoha's fingers curled into the small piece of paper, ripping it in half. 

She was not a disappointment.

The words from the noblewomen came into her mind again — of marriage and expectations.

She was not a disappointment to her family. She was sure of it.

However, there was always a slight feeling of uncertainty lingering in her mind whenever she tried to convince herself. And once again, Seoha was in her own head, not noticing the small movements behind her.

Jay stood there, a satisfied smirk adorning his face. He followed her all the way here, unnoticed by her or any guard attending duty right now. His mouth opened to let out a snarky remark about her taking too long when he noticed the look on her face.

It was hurt.

Jay's expression soon turned into a slight frown before he followed her gaze. She was staring at torn pieces of paper lying in front of her — his note, he realised. Confusion rushed through him before Jay narrowed his eyes, trying to see which word she was staring at.

Disappointing.

An uncomfortable feeling ran over him. He did not plan this to be the outcome. Jay thought she would glare at him, give him a snarky comment back — not looking like a small girl whose feelings got hurt. 

He did not like it.

So he came closer and crouched down beside her.

"You're terrible at sneaking around, you know that?"

Seoha's head snapped over to him, completely startled at his sudden appearance. The hurt in her eyes quickly turned into outrage when she heard his criticism.

"I do not need to sneak around," she murmured. "People should notice me, not overlook me."

A sly smile appeared on Jay's face. "Oh, you do. Trust me, it could really come in handy sometimes."

"I can teach you: sneaking through halls, lying convincingly, disappearing unnoticed," Jay said and met her eyes. "Or are you scared?"

There was this challenge again in his eyes — Seoha did not like it. She would not give him the satisfaction of backing down.

"I am not scared, you fool."

That was all the confirmation Jay needed, and he offered her his hand. Seoha eyed him for a second longer before she shook his hand.

The grin that spread across Jay's face immediately made her regret the decision.

A few days have passed and Seoha was currently standing behind a corner with Jay beside her. It took some convincing on Seoha's part to give Eunbi a task where she was occupied for a while without it seeming obvious. However, the small smirk Eunbi gave Seoha was an obvious indication that the maid knew what was probably going on — but Eunbi did not comment on it for the sake of her lady's sanity.

"Get from this hallway to the library without being seen," Jay told her.

Seoha blinked. The task seemed slightly underwhelming for her. "That's ridiculous."

He sighed and leaned against the wall, looking into her eyes. "If it's so 'ridiculous', then show me how it's done."

She rolled her eyes before peeking out of the corner. The hallways leading to the library were not long, but they definitely were not empty either. Servants and maids walked them from time to time. But Seoha would not let Jay get the satisfaction of seeing her fail. So with quick steps, she marched forward.

The first few minutes went well. She hid behind pillars whenever a servant came by her, going unnoticed. Seoha's confidence grew with every unnoticed movement she made.

"Oh, Lady Seoha!" a maid exclaimed, bowing in greeting.

Seoha froze for a second, cursing her carelessness before she turned around and gave the maid a polite smile. The maid quickly went on her way, leaving Seoha alone in the hall. Only five minutes had passed and she had been already discovered. With slower steps now, she eventually reached the library.

"A new record," Jay's voice rang out from behind her.

Seoha shrieked slightly in surprise before narrowing her eyes at him. "I hate you."

The next lesson took place the day after the failure in the hallways. The two of them were currently outside in the gardens hidden by a tall hedge. It was the perfect spot to be undisturbed to practice her lying skills. They sat down on a bench, the moon now high in the sky. Seoha folded her legs before Jay began the lesson.

"What did you eat for breakfast?" he asked, angling his body to look at her.

"Tea and rice."

Jay nodded. "You’re telling the truth." It was a statement, not a question.

"Because you asked me a question," she said in obvious confusion.

"Alright. Now lie." He shrugged.

Utter confusion graced her features now. "Why?"

"Because you're terrible at it," he simply stated like it was the most obvious thing in the kingdom.

That made Seoha irrationally offended. How dare he say something like that? She could lie very well and she would prove it to him.

"Ask me a question, Jay," she all but demanded.

Jay simply raised a brow at how she addressed him but decided not to comment on it. Though a small smile came onto his lips before he spoke again.

"What's your favourite flower?"

The image of moonflowers immediately came to her mind. She loved how they bloomed at night, completely undisturbed in the tranquility of it all — no disruptions from anything.

"Roses," she stated.

Jay merely gave her a look, not believing her one bit. "Like I said, you’re terrible at lying."

A frustrated huff left her. "How can you even tell?"

Silence stretched between them as Jay analysed her. Seoha shifted uncomfortably on the bench at his stare, looking out into the garden and up at the moon. 

"Your undertone. It's not as self-assured as usual," he suddenly said.

Her head snapped back to him once she heard that.

"I am—"

"No. You're far from it."

Her eyes narrowed at him. "Do not—"

"Interrupt the fine lady? My deepest apologies, Lady Seoha," Jay said, no remorse in his undertone whatsoever.

She only gritted her teeth and looked up at the moon again. Jay followed her gaze before he asked, "What's your real favourite flower, though?" 

"Ipomoea alba."

He looked over at her and blinked, clearly not familiar with that flower.

"Would the lady be so pleased to translate it to peasant language perhaps?"

Seoha's lips quirked upwards in amusement, huffing out an almost indistinguishable chuckle, before she responded.

"Moonflowers." 

Jay hummed and nodded, letting the silence stretch out.

"We still need to work on your lies."

"You are one insufferable man."

A week later, the salon was bustling with people of high status. It was simply a small fest to mingle together as each one of them presented something philosophical or artistic. Some read poems which they wrote themselves, some sang or played a musical instrument. The atmosphere felt easy and lighthearted on the surface — but everyone felt the pressure lurking beneath it. No one wanted to look bad once it was their turn to present their talent.

Seoha stood with Yerin somewhere in the back of the salon, sipping on a small alcoholic beverage until it was their turn to step forward. They were mid-gossip about Lady Jeong's latest fashion choices before Seoha was called up front. Yerin gave her an encouraging smile, taking the glass from her friend's grip. Seoha gave her a forced smile back before walking down towards where the piano stood. 

She was not scared of how she would perform — Seoha knew she had talent when it came to handling instruments. It was the thought of being dismissed, of having her talent overlooked simply because some people refused to take her seriously.

However, the moment her fingers brushed over the keys, all her attention focused on the music she created in that moment. Her eyes fluttered closed as she played one of her own pieces, just basking in her own creation. Her upper body swayed slightly to the rhythm and flow bouncing off of the salon's walls. 

Not every eye remained on her, some clearly dismissed her, others merely went back to their hushed chattering, but a few were mesmerised by the music currently being played.

And from the corner of the room, dark brown eyes never left her frame once. 

The last tone rang out before Seoha opened her eyes. Respectful clapping could be heard of some as she went back to Yerin, taking her glass back from her.

"It sounded so beautiful," Yerin told her, nearly squealing at how delighted she was.

Seoha smiled at her friend. "Thank you," she said, finishing her drink. The alcohol warmed her from the inside as it slid down her throat. 

Yerin's smile dimmed ever so slightly when Lord Taeyang waved his fiancée over. He probably wanted to discuss some marriage plans with her. She gave Seoha a small apologetic smile.

"Excuse me for a moment. I will be right back," Yerin said before leaving Seoha standing at the back of the room.

Seoha watched her friend go before she turned her attention to the middle of the room again where a nobleman was playing the violin with such grace it made even Seoha stare in awe for a moment.

Her loneliness was short-lived as she felt a presence beside her.

"Next lesson," Jay simply stated.

Instantly, her entire body froze the moment his words reached her ear. "Not now," she hissed.

Her words did not faze him as he pressed on, "Disappear out of the room without anyone noticing."

Seoha's fists clenched into her delicate dress at his ridiculous task.

"Not now, Jay," she whispered back. "Some people would notice and question why I left so early."

Jay leaned slightly closer to her ear. The hairs on the back of her neck stood up once his breath fanned across her neck. "No one will notice if you stop carrying yourself like a noble lady. It's all about perception."

She did not say anything for a second, nor did she turn him down either, which only made a grin appear on his lips. Seoha looked around. Everyone was focusing on the noblewoman now singing her heart out in the middle of the room. She took that as her cue to slowly but surely make her way across the room to the doors.

For once, she listened to Jay's words. Seoha kept her head down, forced herself to walk less confidently and draw less attention to herself. She felt like a little girl again, walking across a room full of older people who all looked down on her. And she did not stop once, not until her hand grabbed the door handle and turned it, disappearing down the hall. 

Jay already stood there, waiting for her. It made her pause when she caught a proud smile on his lips before it quickly disappeared behind one of his signature smirks.

"You made it. Perhaps there's hope for you after all."

Seoha chuckled as she walked over to him. "You seem like you have something else planned."

He only raised his hands in surrender before he walked with her to the kitchens. A frown appeared on Seoha's face as she stopped short in front of the doors.

Jay only raised a brow at her, hand already on the door. "What? You're here quite often at night. Come on, the servants won't bite you — not the ones I know at least."

"If someone finds out about me being here, I will see to somehow have you executed."

It was an empty threat — and they both knew it.

He simply chuckled and held open the door for her. "After you, my lady."

She did not even have both feet inside the kitchen before heads turned towards her, mouths agape and frozen in their movements. Seoha was equally as taken aback as the servants and cooks, just giving them a tight-lipped smile with a respectful nod of her head.

Jay quickly took hold of the situation and introduced her to each and every one of them. Some servants she knew from passing by in halls, some she had never seen here. Soon with Jay's help Seoha relaxed and actually sat down with them, talking and laughing like it was normal.

In that moment, it felt normal.

The titles were stripped away that night, leaving behind only Seoha.

And for once, Seoha felt free.

Chapter Text

Seoha was walking through the gardens with Yerin, their maids walking a distance behind them. Butterflies drifted through the air, landing on flowers that swayed gently in the breeze.

Seoha felt guilty for leaving the salon the other night without saying a word to her dear friend. She could not bear to keep evading Yerin's questions any longer.

So, she took a small breath, shortly looking around to make sure no one was listening in. "You have to promise not to utter one single word to anyone."

Yerin held up a hand while the other one was placed on her chest, a smile coming onto her lips. "I swear. Now tell me."

"I met up with the court jester," Seoha said quietly. "He led me to the kitchens to get to know the servants."

Her friend stared at her, taken aback. Yerin clearly did not expect that. She had thought Seoha had simply tired of the event and gone to bed early.

"The jester?" Yerin paused, her mind piecing some things together from the last few days. "Now that you have mentioned it, you do talk quite a lot about that man. Just the other day, you once again complained about him." She nudged her friend playfully.

Seoha could only manage to roll her eyes at Yerin's insinuation.

"I do not talk about him that often," Seoha protested, the tips of her ears turning slightly red.

Yerin hid her chuckle behind her hand. "You just proved my point, dear friend."

That just drew a huff from Seoha. Yerin's implications irked her to no measure.

"You are teasing again. I would like you to stop it," she grumbled out.

Her friend hummed in response. Silence stretched between them before Yerin broke it again.

"You realise most people would simply ignore a jester," she stated.

"I am trying to."

"You are failing rather spectacularly."

Seoha only gave Yerin a look, one that made her quiet down before dropping the subject entirely. Seoha took the opportunity to change the subject entirely.

"What did Lord Taeyang and you discuss at the event?"

Yerin's smile faltered for a short moment when she heard the question. Seoha noted it at the party, too, when Lord Taeyang called his bride-to-be over to discuss their wedding. Her expression softened before she halted her steps, pulling Yerin to a stop with her.

"Are you and Lord Taeyang having a dispute?" she asked carefully.

Yerin sighed before she nodded curtly. "We have some different viewpoints regarding the festivities."

A small frown appeared on Seoha's face. Her mind immediately drifted to the worst possibilities, imagining how such disputes might unfold behind closed doors. Gently, she took her friend's hands into her own.

"You would tell me if Lord Taeyang did something to you, yes?" she asked carefully, almost in a whisper.

Yerin nodded. "Of course. However, you do not need to worry. We only exchange words, never blows." She gave her a small smile in reassurance.

At Seoha's unconvinced look, Yerin sighed.

"Lord Taeyang insists I do not need six ladies accompanying me after the wedding, which also includes Myeonghee," Yerin clarified after a while.

"And?"

"And I informed him that Myeonghee has been with me since I was eight and that I would sooner leave him behind than her."

Seoha stared at her in utter shock and bewilderment.

"You did not."

"I absolutely did."

For a moment, Seoha simply looked at her friend. Then a laugh escaped her. Yerin grinned in response.

The heaviness that had settled between them moments earlier seemed to vanish as quickly as it had appeared. After that, they spoke of lighter things, continuing their walk through the gardens as though the tension had never existed.

The streets were bustling with the hectic life of the workers. Shopkeepers shouted prices for their goods, hoping to get a few people to spend their money. Maids of the nobles were rushing to get their employers the dress and accessories they demanded from them. And in between were little kids playing in the alleys, completely absorbed in their own little world. For now, they remained blissfully unaware of how cruel the world could be to people of their station.

Seoha had never been the sort of woman to fawn over children, but neither was she heartless enough to remain unaffected when she saw some playing with little more than sticks. However, the sight of their thin frames and worn clothes made it difficult for her to simply look away as she walked with Eunbi.

Seoha had visited orphanages before. She had approved funds, donated clothes, and listened to endless reports about shortages. Yet somehow, it never seemed enough.

Even so, she always came back.

Eunbi and Seoha pushed through the streets towards one of the many orphanages they had visited over the past few years. The staff already knew them. Smiles appeared the moment Seoha stepped through the doorway, and several children waved excitedly from the corridor. The orphanage's head matron came up to show them around, telling them about the changes that had taken place and the shortages they had faced during the months Seoha had been away.

Suddenly, Seoha felt a small tug on her skirt. Her eyes drifted down towards a girl, looking up at her with bright eyes.

"Lady Seoha, you're here again! Play with us, please," the small girl pleaded, tugging on her skirt for emphasis.

Eunbi shared a look with the lady, silently asking if she should take her place, but Seoha only shook her head. A polite smile graced her lips as she met the child's eyes. 

"I would be very honoured," she said, offering her hand. The small girl immediately took it and pulled Seoha with her. Eunbi just stared after them before she rushed after her lady. 

As they entered the playroom, heads turned into their direction, curious. Once they recognised Seoha and Eunbi, they all scrambled to their feet to greet them, jumping up and down in pure, unadulterated excitement. It was obvious the kids adored them by the sheer look of happiness in their eyes.

"Lady Seoha, look! I still have the doll you gave me," one boy said.

Eunbi chuckled and picked one of the children up, twirling him around and drawing a laugh from him. Seoha watched in fascination at how natural it all came to Eunbi. It made a smile appear on her lips before she turned her attention back to the little girl still gripping her hand.

Seoha crouched down in front of her. "What should we play?"

The girl immediately grinned, excited to be finally able to play.

"Princess! I wanna be a princess!"

Seoha blinked before she nodded, giving her a small smile.

"Then I will be your lady in waiting," she said, straightening up again as the girl guided her to a box with makeshift crowns and accessories. She pulled out a crown and tiny sceptre for her before she puffed out her chest, straightening up like a princess would.

Seoha had to stifle a laugh when she saw that, bowing for her new princess. Though a small snort could be heard from Eunbi across the room.

An hour of laughter passed before the director of the orphanage appeared in the doorway, knocking softly on the open door.

"Lady Seoha? May I speak to you?" he asked.

Seoha immediately nodded and stood up, curtsying for her 'princess' before crossing the room. Eunbi gave her a small nod, reassuring her that she would be waiting when they returned.

They walked down the hallway for a moment, making sure that the kids would not overhear their conversation. It was crucial for him to not let the kids know about the struggles the orphanage had to endure.

"My deepest apologies for asking you this directly, but our circumstances leave me no other choice," he began. "The east wing roof has begun leaking again. It needs repairs or else we might have to close it temporarily. Several of the children no longer have shoes that fit. They have outgrown them and we simply cannot find enough for all of them. And the worst of all, a fever swept through the younger children last month. Thankfully none were lost, but our stock of remedies is running low."

Seoha took it all in, trying to find some solutions to the problems the director just listed. The problems were numerous. Some needed funds to be solved, others needed donations, and then some needed help from the hospitals or even the palace.

She gave him a small nod, soaking it all in. "You will not need to beg me to help you — I always am willing to. However, I cannot promise change in the next few weeks. I have to ask for another fund to be approved in council. I promise, I will do everything that I can to help you." 

The director nodded and smiled in gratitude. 

"Take your time, Lady Seoha. We are just happy that someone like you always helps us if we are in need. Once the kids understand it all better, they will appreciate everything you have done for them."

Hearing that, it made Seoha's heart warm in her chest. She did not need their gratitude, it was enough for her to just be able to help — but she did appreciate him telling her that.

"I will see to your concerns in no time. For the remainder, I will let some shoes be sent here. You will receive them in the next few days."

The director bowed his head, letting Seoha get on her way again. He walked her back to the room before taking his leave. The lady leaned against the doorframe, simply watching Eunbi play with the girls. She could not bring herself to call on her just yet, simply soaking in her and the kids' laughter.

Eventually, though, the two of them had to go.

"Eunbi? We have to get back to the palace," Seoha softly called out.

Eunbi was mid-piggyback ride when she heard her lady's words. The maid gently set the little boy down before walking over to Seoha. Both of them gave the little kids warm smiles, promising to come back again. A chorus of 'goodbye's and 'we will wait for you's in the room before Seoha and Eunbi slowly made their way back to the entrance of the orphanage.

"Once we are back, could you please get me a meeting with Lord Lee?" 

Eunbi immediately understood what the meeting was for and nodded.

"Of course. The usual cookies and milk afterwards?"

Seoha chuckled and nodded. She always needed something to help her calm down from Lord Lee's relentless attitude — and sweets were just the right remedy for it.

"You know me too well."

"Too well, Lady Seoha."

Both of them giggled as they exited the orphanage. 

After long, dreadful hours with Lord Lee together in a room, Seoha was utterly drained. The man demanded answers from her that she had not yet had the time to fully finalise. Luckily, she could hold her ground — like she always did — and explained the situation to him, offering a few promises of her own. Lord Lee was a man who always strived for acknowledgment and praise, so it was no hassle to promise him that it would be under his name that the orphanage would get help from.

Once the cookies and milk were devoured by the lady, she simply needed some alone time. Eunbi was quickly sent on her way, telling her to enjoy her evening before Seoha exited her chambers. Her head throbbed from hours of negotiations and promises.

She needed a breather.

The walk to the music room was quiet, not many staff were around anymore as dawn began to creep in. The only sound was the clicking of her heels until she reached the large doors and pushed them open. An easy smile graced her features as she walked over to the glass door and opened it for Bam. The small feline immediately rushed inside, hopping onto the piano and settling down, eyes fixed on his closest companion. Seoha chuckled and rounded the instrument, sitting down on the bench before scratching behind his ear.

"Had a nice night?" she asked the black cat.

Bam only meowed before purring, nuzzling into her palm. A smile came onto Seoha's lips.

"Do you want to hear a new piece?"

The cat only mewled, and Seoha took that as her cue to begin. Her fingers graced the keys, finding the right ones to start before she pressed down. Soft music swept through the room. It was a slow rhythm, easy to wind down from a hard day and find peace in this moment alone. She smiled, closing her eyes and letting her intuition take over completely. Bam purred softly on the piano as it vibrated under him from the soft tunes.

But the cat was not the only one who had his eyes on her.

In the far corner of the room, hidden behind some cellos, sat Jay with a guitar in his hands. Before Seoha came in, his fingers moved with practised ease over the strings when he suddenly stopped abruptly as he heard someone come in.

As Seoha played, he simply listened to her. His eyes swept over her form. She looked far less rigid and far more at ease than she ever did walking through the palace hallways.

She looked almost peaceful.

Without speaking up, he slowly stood up and walked over to her with silent steps. Bam looked up once he saw the jester approaching but did not hiss at him, he just stared at the human in curiosity.

Jay waited for the right moment, readying his fingers before he found the perfect opportunity to join Seoha in the play. The sounds of the guitar accompanied the piano perfectly, creating the perfect tune.

Seoha's back shot upright once she heard a guitar playing, her tones faltering ever so slightly — but she did not stop playing. For a brief moment, irritation gave way to surprise. The guitar complemented the piano far better than she would have expected.

Both of them played until the last tune rang out in the room, ending the impromptu duet. Seoha's hands came to rest on her lap, her eyes fixed on the red sky before she asked, "What are you doing here?"

Jay put the guitar away before rounding the piano to look at her properly.

"I could ask you the same thing, though you have to be more surprised than I am," he stated.

The girl frowned before an amused smile pulled at her lips for a second. "So you are stalking a lady. How crude of you."

Jay rolled his eyes before he smirked down at her.

"If I were, you wouldn't even realise that I am," he said as if stating an obvious fact. "Besides, I was here first."

Seoha lifted a brow. She supposed he was right. She had not heard a door close. Regardless, it irked her that she did not notice him.

"How mature of you to utter something as intelligent as that."

They maintained eye contact for a while longer, Jay with his signature smirk and Seoha with her narrowed eyes — though she was rather amused than annoyed.

The silence lasted until Bam broke it with a soft mewl. Jay's gaze shifted to the black feline, arching a brow.

"Yours?"

"Perhaps." Seoha shrugged, giving him a small smirk.

"So, yes?" Jay reached out, letting the cat sniff his fingers before he scratched the fur-ball behind his ear.

"You ought to be smart for a jester, so you should have the capacity to figure it out on your own."

She put the lid back over the piano keys before standing up. Jay gave her a questing glance, taking a step forwards.

"Where are you going?"

Her feet stopped just a short distance from the door, listening to his approaching footsteps.

"Why must you know?" she asked.

Jay stopped a short distance away from her before saying, "Because we have plans for tonight."

That made her falter. Seoha blinked once. Twice.

"Plans? Have you finally lost your mind? The last time I followed your ideas, I ended up sneaking through the palace kitchens."

He chuckled and shook his head. "And yet you survived."

"Follow me," he said, not waiting for her answer. When he did not hear her follow him, he turned around.

"Or are you scared?" He knew she could not say no to that. 

Ever.

And he was proven right when she simply huffed and finally followed after him without another word.

She had a feeling he would use it against her more often in the future.

The walk through the servant corridors was filled with complaints the entire time. Seoha was not very fond of Jay's idea to simply trust him where they were going. 

"You know, for all I know you could lead me to my doom — which this probably is," Seoha said.

Jay shot her an exaggerated look before heaving a sigh. "Leave the job to be dramatic for the jester or else I'm unemployed."

She scoffed before they took a sharp turn towards the left, leading further down towards the area where servants usually worked. They came to a sudden halt in front of the servants' common room. Jay shot her a look over his shoulder to which Seoha simply rolled her eyes.

Once the sound of the door opening reached the servants' ears, their heads snapped to Jay, immediately recognising him and inviting him in. But their joyful expressions soon turned into shock once they saw Seoha behind him. Some of them already had the joy of meeting her in the kitchens the other evening, others simply stared openly at the lady now standing in their space. 

Jay would not let that deter him and introduced her once again.

"Friends, this is Lady Seoha! Treat her well or she will have you beheaded," he joked.

Seoha shot him a sharp look as a flush crept onto her cheeks.

"I most certainly would not."

"You threatened me with it," Jay shot back in amusement. He knew what he was doing.

She rolled her eyes and folded her arms, muttering under her breath, "I threatened you specifically."

The servants watched the exchange with amusement. They could see the easy banter between the noble lady and the jester which made them trust her more, seeing how she treated one of them.

A shuffling of cards could be heard from a table before one of the players spoke up.

"The lady knows how to play, right?"

Seoha's back straightened up. "Of course, I do."

Jay immediately noticed the lack of confidence in her tone.

She was lying.

And he knew it.

So twenty minutes later, Seoha lost miserably. For the first time, Jay laughed so loudly he could not hide it. A blush crept onto Seoha's cheeks again, feeling slightly humiliated at her obvious loss, but it was soon overshadowed by her surprise.

She had never heard Jay laugh.

Her eyes traced over his features for a second before the door was pushed open — but no person came in. Their attention shifted to a black cat strolling into the room. Bam, who had somehow followed them, promptly abandoned Seoha's outstretched hands in favour of trotting over to Jay, rubbing against his legs.

She huffed out a chuckle and folded her arms. "Traitor. I am the one who feeds you."

Jay grinned before picking Bam up into his lap.

"He simply has excellent taste."

Their eyes met for a brief moment, matching smirks appearing at the ridiculousness of the situation.

Then Seoha spoke up.

"Again."

Jay blinked, caught off guard. "Again?"

"I refuse to be defeated by a palace servant," she declared, giving her opponent a playful smile.

The servant looked mildly offended, though rather amused by her sheer boldness.

Jay laughed once again, enjoying the show of seeing Seoha actually trying to win a mere card game.

He hated to admit it, but the sight was oddly endearing.

"There she is," he murmured under his breath, though some nearby servants caught his words, sharing a glance before focusing their attention back on the lady playing against one of their own.

At some point, Jay could not bear to see her lose once again. It would have been the seventh time she lost the game in a row — so he scooted closer with his chair to look into her cards with Bam still in his lap.

Seoha gave him a glance, wondering what he had up his sleeve. However, once she saw the look in his eyes, Seoha understood Jay only wanted to help. She angled her body more towards him to let him look into her cards. His whispered advice guided her towards victory, and for the first time that evening, she managed to beat the servant sitting across from her. Seoha smiled brightly in delight at her win, finally being able to hold her ground with Jay by her side.

And as the night went on, Seoha realised something.

These people no longer felt like strangers.

Somehow, somewhere between losing seven card games and being betrayed by her own cat, they had become friends.

Chapter Text

The next few days were pure agony for Seoha. Meetings, negotiations, and attempts to convince stubborn council members consumed nearly every hour of her day. What she had assumed would be a simple matter of approving funds for the orphanage quickly proved otherwise.

The orphanage had already received aid countless times before, many nobles argued that any further support was a waste of money. If it still struggled, then clearly throwing more money at it would solve nothing. They would much rather spend those funds on extravagant galas and lavish balls — events they considered far more valuable than hungry children.

Seoha was currently sitting in one such meeting. Judging eyes followed her every move, scrutinising her as though searching for a flaw in every word she spoke. Clearly, they no longer cared — not for the children, nor for her arguments. She could practically feel it from the sheer look of boredom on some of the noblemen's faces.

And it enraged her to no end.

But she always kept a polite smile fixed on her lips for the sake of appearances, biting back the snarky remarks she wished to utter since the past hour.

"I know the gentlemen must be upset. However, I do believe—"

"You believe that mere children — who already have enough — need further support because they simply need more shoes?" one man said, interrupting her.

She remembered the girl who had hidden her torn sleeves behind her back, embarrassed to let anyone see them. Seoha's jaw clenched, already aching from the many times she had bitten back her tongue to avoid speaking out of turn. She hated that these men always underestimated her ability to find a solution. This time, though, she refused to bite her tongue.

"Then perhaps we have very different definitions of 'enough,' my lord. If a child must choose between a meal and a pair of shoes, then I would hardly call them well provided for."

Silence settled over the chamber.

Several council members shifted in their seats. Others suddenly found the documents before them very interesting.

The nobleman blinked, clearly not expecting the duke's daughter to challenge him so directly. Everyone in court knew that Lady Seoha was not one to remain silent when she believed herself right. He had simply never expected to be the target of that conviction. 

When the nobleman did not retaliate, she gathered herself before standing up and bowing to them — although rather reluctantly.

"All I ask of you is to think about it," she said. "I wish you a good day, gentlemen." Seoha promptly turned around and headed for the door, Eunbi immediately following her lady out.

As soon as the door clicked shut behind them, Eunbi spoke up. "Do you believe they will consider it?"

Seoha stayed silent, keeping her eyes fixed forward on the hallway. Only once they had turned the corner did Seoha allow herself to exhale. She knew it could go either way after such a debacle; either they would approve the funds, or they would refuse any future attempts to help the orphanage.

"I wish I had an answer to that. All we can do is hope," Seoha finally said.

Eunbi only nodded in slight regret for her lady. She knew Seoha had good arguments and bright visions of what she wanted the world to be like — the only problems were convincing the council and the fact that Seoha was still expected to marry.

Silence settled between them as they passed servants and staff in the hallways. Some offered Seoha genuine smiles, remembering their time together in the servants' room. A small smile found its way onto her own lips as she recognised the familiar faces, the sight helping to ease some of the tension from the past hour. That drew a knowing smirk on Eunbi's lips. She had heard about a noblewoman visiting the servants' room and playing cards with them. There was no other lady in this palace who would do such a thing besides Seoha.

Eunbi was sure of it.

Once they reached the sitting room and Seoha sat down on a nearby sofa, she asked, "Could you bring me some water? I can already feel the impending headache coming after having to deal with these people."

Eunbi nodded and gave her a reassuring smile before walking out, tending to the lady's needs. The door had barely clicked shut when movement caught Seoha's eye. A familiar shadow detached itself from the corner. She already had an inkling that nothing good could come out of this.

"What do you want, Jay?" Seoha heaved a sigh, pressing two fingers against her temple.

Jay smirked when he heard her address him and stepped closer, leaning against the back of the sofa behind her.

"Well, someone looks delighted to see me," he deadpanned, arching a brow. 

Seoha only groaned and closed her eyes. "Would you mind not riling me up today? Especially not now," she almost pleaded, resting her back against the sofa.

A soft hum escaped Jay as he studied her for a moment.

"You wear more masks than I do," Jay simply stated.

That got Seoha's attention and she turned back towards Jay, meeting his eyes as she looked up at him.

"Riddles? Again?" She sighed, annoyance and utter exhaustion lined her features.

"You're a completely different person around court." 

Something about his words only made the pounding in her head worse. Seoha's eyes narrowed in pure, unfiltered anger at him. "I certainly am not!"

Jay's sly smile grew on his lips as he said, "You certainly are. It's quite entertaining actually."

Seoha groaned, her head pounding behind her eyes.

"I am not here for your amusement, jester. You must have our roles mixed up in your tiny brain," she bit back.

He shrugged and leaned down to rest his forearms against the back of the sofa. "Calling me jester again? And here I thought we were past that." Slight hurt laced his tone, though Seoha did not know if it was feigned or if he actually was hurt by her words.

Regardless, somehow, it made her feel responsible.

And she hated it.

Her gaze swept away from his, focusing now on the wall behind Jay. 

"I did not mean it like that," she whispered.

"I know."

The reply came so easily that even Jay seemed surprised by it.

For a moment, neither of them spoke.

Then Jay finally broke the silence.

"Tell me."

Confusion washed over her at his demand. Tell me was not really something precise. Jay noticed the obvious confusion and clarified it for her.

"The discussion about the orphanage."

It was not surprising for her that Jay had somehow overheard bits and pieces of the discussion with the noblemen. 

She was surprised that he even wanted to know.

"It was hard," she said. "They did not listen until I could not hold my tongue any longer."

Jay smirked, imagining the noblemen's faces as Seoha talked back. "You and your sharp tongue."

Seoha chuckled at his words. Jay watched her for a moment before shaking his head.

The moment was broken by the door creaking open. "I brought you your water—" Eunbi stopped in her steps when she saw Jay now in the room. A knowing smile graced her lips.

With deliberate slow steps, Eunbi approached the both of them, drawing out the uncomfortable silence.

"Your water, Lady Seoha." She put the cup down on the small table in front of the lady.

Seoha did not meet her maid's eye, simply letting her eyes stay fixed on the water in front of her.

"Thank you, Eunbi," she murmured, taking a small sip.

Jay took the opportunity to introduce him to Eunbi with a grand gesture, bowing his head before looking up at the maid with a mischievous smile.

"I think we haven't had the time to properly introduce ourselves."

Eunbi just waved him off. "Do not bother. Everyone knows who you are by now," she said, glancing over at Seoha.

"Some maybe more than others." Seoha nearly choked on her water when Eunbi's whispered words reached her ears. Luckily, Jay did not hear them — or simply pretended not to.

"Well then, I don't want to bother you two much longer," he said, promptly taking his leave.

Before he turned to leave, though, Jay quickly whispered, "Think about it."

"About what?"

"The masks."

Seoha opened her mouth to question him, but he was already gone. Not before shooting one last look in her direction as the door clicked shut behind him.

The maid raised a brow, a small smirk now slowly coming to her lips. Seoha simply huffed and shook her head.

"Do not even start."

"I would not dare, my lady."

To Seoha's displeasure, Eunbi had teased her the entire time they were in the sitting room. Luckily, she was finally alone now in her room, lying in her bed. Unfortunately, sleep did not come easy to her that night. Jay's words kept replaying in her mind.

"You wear more masks than I do."

It irked her that she did not know exactly what he meant — or maybe she did. As Seoha pondered his words more and more, she suddenly came to a realisation. 

Jay was right.

She did wear masks for different people.

Lady Seoha in court.

Seoha at the orphanage.

Seoha with servants.

Seoha with Yerin.

Seoha with Jay.

They were all different people with different speech and behaviour.

The fact that Jay, of all people, had noticed it before she did was maddening. Seoha should have known. After all, it was only natural to behave differently in court than in private. Yet she had never realised just how much she changed depending on who stood before her.

But was she really that different?

In her eyes, Seoha was still the same in general — just with slight suppressions here and there.

These thoughts plagued her the entirety of the night. Morning could not come sooner for her.

Maybe she should have wished for something different, though.

Because the next morning, an answer from the council was already waiting for her.

Seoha's hands were slightly clammy as she gripped her skirts. The deep teal gown Eunbi had chosen for her was elegant and refined, embroidered with delicate gold vines and fitted enough to remind Seoha to keep her posture straight.

It did little to calm her nerves.

Deep breaths, Seoha told herself. She was not scared of them. They were just men, bored enough with their own lives to play god in everyone else's.

But she was terrified she would not be able to keep her promise to the director of the orphanage.

Her steps came to a halt in front of the closed double doors, Eunbi stopping shortly beside her.

"Good luck," was the last thing Eunbi said before they both entered the meeting room.

Hushed murmurs reached Seoha's ears. They had not yet noticed them enter. Eunbi stepped back towards the edge of the room before Seoha cleared her throat. That finally got the men's attention. Some looked slightly annoyed, while others had the decency to look somewhat neutral. Their blatant disregard for her maddened her, but she would not let it deter her. At the end of the day, their decision was already made.

But first Seoha had to hear it.

"Lady Seoha. What a blessing to see you once again," one of them said, obvious sarcasm lacing his tone.

"The pleasure is all mine." She bowed slightly.

The man in the middle straightened up. "Our message has reached you, then. Good."

Seoha stayed silent, smiling politely and letting them continue.

"We discussed your little hobby and came to a conclusion." 

Her jaw clenched in anticipation and fear. Her heart pounded so loudly in her chest that she nearly missed the next few words.

"We deemed it appropriate to give some aid, with twenty-five percent less funding than you requested."

At first she could not move. She was too overjoyed by the fact that her proposal had been accepted. Seoha did not care that they had reduced the funding. She could help out with her own money. The important thing was done.

They would get help.

The lady suppressed a smile before she bowed. "Thank you, gentlemen."

She was promptly dismissed, Eunbi following her lady instantly. Once the door was closed, Seoha let out a relieved sigh before a bright smile covered her entire face. The reconstructions and the care for the children could finally begin. She could not be happier.

During the entire walk back to her chambers, Seoha was already composing her letter to the orphanage in her head. The words came easily now, each sentence falling into place before pen had even touched parchment.

Once they reached her chambers, Seoha settled at her desk and reached for a fresh sheet of parchment. The afternoon sun spilled across the parchment as she finished the letter.

『

To the Director of the Orphanage,

I have good news.

The funds have been approved.

The process took longer than I had hoped, and there were moments when I feared I would not be able to keep the promise I made to you. For that reason, I am especially relieved to write this letter today.

Please tell the children that their new shoes, supplies, and everything else we discussed will soon be possible. They have been very patient, and I have not forgotten a single one of them.

I hope this support will make the coming months a little easier for everyone at the orphanage.

Thank you for placing your trust in me. I look forward to visiting again soon and seeing everyone's smiling faces.

With warm regards,

Lady Seoha

Daughter of Duke Kang

』

The paper was folded neatly before being placed into an envelope. Seoha took the lit candle beside her and dropped some wax onto it before pressing the stamp with her family crest onto it, sealing it officially.

Her chair scraped against the floor as she stood up, walking with a pleased smile over to Eunbi, pressing the envelope into her awaiting hands.

"Please make sure that it is sent away for me."

Eunbi gave the lady a nod, proud of her achievement. "Of course. I will see to it."

The maid excused herself before leaving Seoha alone in her chambers. Still, Seoha could not sit still as she paced up and down her room. The joyful feelings made her restless.

She had to tell someone.

In the end, her feet carried her out of her quarters and down the hallways. Seoha was in search of someone she knew would not fake his reaction. Staff and servants rarely showed their true emotions to nobles — unless those nobles were playing cards with them. Seoha would have tried to find Yerin, but alas, her dear friend was out with her fiancé. The only person she could now tell was—

"Jay!" she exclaimed in pure excitement once she spotted him somewhere down the north wing corridor.

His feet came to an abrupt stop as Seoha's voice reached his ears and turned around. Jay arched his brow in bewilderment before he saw the bright smile on her face. The smirk was immediate. 

"Would you look at that. Which poor soul got you so happy?"

Seoha shook her head, panting slightly as she blurted out, "The orphanage. My proposal got approved."

A slight twinkle appeared in Jay's eyes when he heard that.

"I'm not surprised. You can be quite convincing if you have to."

She grinned unapologetically. "One does not have to be convincing if they are in the right."

"That you were," Jay said, his smirk now more resembling a smile.

When her breathing calmed down again, her curiosity got the better of her. Seoha stopped him on his way somewhere.

Where would a jester even go to in the palace usually?

"Where were you off to before I stopped you?" she asked.

He remained silent for a moment.

"Curiosity killed the cat."

Seoha stepped closer, not afraid to dig deeper to quench her curious mind.

"Tell me," she demanded, though it sounded more like a plea.

Jay regarded her for a moment. She clearly would not back down no matter what. That was just who she was.

And he knew that.

"You would follow me, wouldn't you?"

"Naturally."

A smug smile spread across Jay's face.  "Thought so."

He glanced at her before saying, "Completely different from the lady in court."

That earned him a groan. He was being ridiculous again.

"Oh, be quiet."

"Am I wrong?"

"Yes."

"Liar."

A chuckle escaped him and he shook his head. Unbelievable, he thought.

"Come on, then. I'll make sure to make it worth your while."

An honest smile spread across her lips as she matched his pace.

For once, Seoha did not question where he was taking her.

Chapter Text

The gardens were peaceful at that time of day. No busy gatherings, tea parties, or watchful eyes. Just the occasional brush of wind through the grass as birds sang somewhere high above in the trees, hidden between leaves and branches.

Amidst the tranquillity, Seoha and Jay strolled through the flower gardens, accompanied by a small feline companion weaving between their legs.

Bam had appeared the moment he noticed his favourite companion — and the other one — passing by his sleeping spot. He immediately rose to his paws and let out a hopeful mewl at Seoha before turning his attention to Jay, clearly expecting something from him.

Seoha could only huff and roll her eyes at how quickly Bam had taken a liking to Jay.

"I might have spoiled you too much," she muttered before scooping him up from the ground before Jay could do so.

Jay chuckled at her obvious annoyance before they continued along the path.

Seoha had never walked this path before. Her busy schedule never truly allowed her much time to explore the gardens. The palace was a different story, though. Thanks to her daily routines, she knew its halls quite well. The gardens, on the other hand, often felt like completely new territory.

Then again, the palace grounds were vast. It would not be surprising if she had missed a few hidden spots over the years. Servants had often spoken of secret passages concealed within the palace walls. Seoha always thought of them as mere stories. Perhaps that explained how some servants seemed to appear out of nowhere whenever they were needed.

Those thoughts were suddenly interrupted when Jay pulled her back behind a tall hedge with him. The lady was about to protest, but Jay held a finger to his lips, silently telling her to keep quiet. Seoha tried desperately to listen for whatever Jay had heard, but he was already pulling her further into cover. Bam struggled a bit in her arms, sensing her stiff mood before they were fully hidden. Jay stayed focused on the voices now coming closer.

"Yes, and she was seen quite a lot with him."

"It is not surprising, seeing that she is not even engaged."

"Her reputation would crumble if it is really true."

Seoha stared down at the ground, trying to make sense of what these women were talking about. Overwhelming dread settled deep in her gut as countless possibilities shot through her head. No other lady at court was currently eligible, so there was no way they were talking about someone else.

They were talking about her.

Jay recognised the exact moment realisation struck, her body going stiff where his hand hovered over the small of her back. Even after the noblewomen had long passed them, Seoha stayed trapped in her thoughts, trying to find a solution to her problem.

Narrowed eyes studied her before Jay finally decided he had let her spiral long enough. Jay guided her out of their impromptu hiding spot before they were once again on the path. Bam squirmed in her hold and Seoha finally let him down.

Jay simply watched her for a second.

"You’re overthinking, Seoha," he stated.

That seemed to pull her out of her mind again, and for a moment, the two of them stared at each other.

"I am not! It is the appropriate amount to think when—"

"Yes, you are. Right now, we can't do anything. We just overheard bits and pieces of a conversation. You have to calm down." He paused for a moment. "Please?"

A brief silence followed.

On one side, Seoha knew for a fact that they were talking about her. Any other possibility seemed impossible — or at the very least highly unlikely. It gnawed at her knowing that the rumours surrounding her marriage prospects were only growing louder. Seoha desperately wanted to do something about it — anything — but she could not. Because on the other side, Jay was right.

Eventually, she nodded, some of the tension finally leaving her shoulders. When she took a deep breath, Seoha looked over at the flowers, landing on the white camellias softly swaying as Bam nuzzled into them. The sight stood in stark contrast to the turmoil in her chest. Bam never seemed troubled by anything. Jay followed her line of sight, chuckling under his breath when his eyes found the black cat.

"Have you fed that fluff ball yet?"

"Not yet," she muttered.

His eyes flickered back to her, taking her in before giving her shoulder a gentle nudge. "Let's go feed him, then."

Seoha only nodded before scooping Bam back into her arms and following Jay towards the palace.

The clattering of pans could be heard echoing off the walls. Busy servants and shouting chefs filled the kitchens. The kitchens were a flurry of activity as everyone rushed to prepare dinner for the waiting nobles. One clumsy boy — new in the palace — accidentally dropped a plate in his haste. Food spilled onto the floor alongside the shards of the ceramic plate.

He looked mortified.

Everyone halted their work as their heads snapped to the now fearful boy. He looked ready to cry. His mouth opened before closing again, clearly wanting to apologise profusely to everyone for being such a klutz. The cook looked one broken plate away from committing murder. His eyes were burning with rage and agitation as he quickly approached the boy with his wooden spoon in hand. The cook was ready to teach him a lesson when the door suddenly creaked open and in came arguing voices.

"Bam is not eating off of a porcelain plate. I have never done that!"

"I'm just saying, he always looks so full of himself among other cats."

"How would you even know that? That is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard."

Their argument came to a sudden stop once they realised they had entered utter mayhem in the kitchens. Seoha was about to step out immediately, planning on giving Bam his dinner a little later once it was safe again — and perhaps let Eunbi bring Bam's food later instead. Jay, however, had none of it as he grabbed her wrist and pulled her in with him.

The servants and cooks stood frozen for a moment, not having expected their entrance. Although Seoha had already spent time with them after hours during their card games, during working hours, where the palace was still alive, they never crossed paths. It was also their mistake to have forgotten that it was already time for dinner where the kitchens were in full usage.

Seoha stood awkwardly near a counter now as Jay walked forward towards the boy.

"What happened here? A little clumsy now, aren't we?" Jay chuckled, helping the anxious boy pick up the shards while the cooks just stood there, baffled.

The young boy's body shook with adrenaline and embarrassment at being called out.

The cook merely watched them before saying, "The lad's new here. Doesn't make it any better, though. If he can't carry a plate, then he shouldn't be serving nobles."

"And he already carries the burden of it. No need for any physical reprimands," Jay said, eyeing the wooden spoon in the cook's hand.

The cook huffed and shook his head. "Fine, fine. But the boy will share his wages for the next three days with everyone who helped with the meal."

Jay looked over to the new servant, wanting to know if he accepted the punishment. The boy immediately nodded, visibly relaxing now that he would not be hit or humiliated in front of everyone.

Meanwhile, Seoha simply watched it all unfold with Bam cradled in her arms. To put it lightly, she was speechless for once in her life.

So she simply waited for Jay to take the lead. 

The shards of the broken plate were quickly thrown away along with the wasted food. The young boy apologised over and over again to Jay for dragging him into the situation. But Jay only shook his head and reassured the kid, stating that it was okay.

Finally, Jay came over to Seoha, who was unusually quiet. For once, there was no sharp remark waiting on her tongue. A slight frown crossed Jay's face when he saw her like that before he guided her gently towards a corner where food fit for a cat was stocked.

"I'm still doubting Bam isn't eating off of a porcelain plate."

That seemed to pull her out of her quiet state. 

Her eyebrow twitched before she shot back, "You are one foolish man."

Jay chuckled, satisfied with the reaction he got out of her.

"Now, now. Be nice or Mr fluff-ball won't get any dinner tonight," he teased as he pulled out some tuna for Bam. He was obviously teasing.

Seoha sat Bam down beside Jay, letting him eat out of the small tray he pulled out from a nearby shelf. She crossed her arms, looking over at Jay as he just gave her a smug smirk. The smile that tugged at her lips came far too easily.

"You are so full of yourself, Jay."

He just shrugged, meeting her eyes.

"It's called charm."

A scoff escaped her, but she did not retaliate. 

The hustle and bustle of the kitchens faded into the background as they watched Bam finish his meal.

Then it hit her.

Dinner.

Her parents.

Seoha froze.

They were probably expecting her. Waiting for her. She had to get to them.

She barely managed a single step backwards before Jay stopped her.

"We passed Eunbi on the way here."

Her eyes narrowed when she heard that. Seoha had been so consumed by his utterly idiotic arguments that she had not even noticed Eunbi in the hallways.

"And what is your point now?" she asked, turning back to him.

Jay simply shrugged. "I bet she won't say anything. Give them an excuse as to why you won't be attending dinner tonight," he said, eyeing the dishes the chefs made ready. "Besides, I'm much better company. Plus, the food is already here, so what's the issue?"

The issue was that she had never missed dinner with her parents before. Seoha would always attend, unless she had a fever or was sick — which she rarely was. The thought made her stomach twist. Her routine had been disrupted, and she hated it. Her nerves had been frayed the entire day, and now she could not even uphold some semblance of control. 

But Jay saw right through her. Seoha was so restless the entire way to the kitchens, and now she probably tried desperately to get back the normalcy of her life. It irked him somehow how deeply trapped in her own thoughts she was, so he took matters into his own hands.

"Hey, chef. Mind making us some dinner?"

Seoha knew the cook who turned around to them. He was one time her opponent that night at the card game. He was a fun and kind man, letting her win a few times before crushing her completely. Seoha's rigid shoulders eased at the memory of the night.

The cook looked between the two, lingering longer on the lady before he gave Jay a cheeky grin. "I'll make you two a fabulous dinner. Nothing less for the lady."

An amused smile pulled at Seoha's lips when she heard that. Satisfaction settled in his chest when he saw her finally relax. Seeing her smile eased something in him — something he could not quite name yet.

"You spoil us so much," Jay said before leaning against the counter, watching the cook ready their meal.

Meanwhile, Seoha watched Jay. Moments ago, he was actively helping a young servant not get a harsh punishment, and now he casually bantered with the cook as if nothing happened. Curiosity washed over her. Just who was he, really? Alongside it came a growing admiration she could not quite explain.

Without pondering much about it, Seoha joined Jay at the counter right by his side. He made no comment, though he definitely was pleased that she came to his side out of her own volition.

At least she was not stressed anymore.

That was what mattered.

A delicious aroma of fresh cooked meat and vegetables filled the air. However, Seoha's eyes stayed trained firmly on the cook's movements. Never in her life had she cooked something on her own, so it was fascinating how it was made.

As Jay noticed that, the chuckle that came from him could not be hidden any longer. Seoha's ears turned pink when she realised she had been caught staring.

"How exactly is it made?" Seoha asked the chef.

He raised an eyebrow in amusement. "Simple. First, the meat is seared to lock in the juices. Then it goes into the oven while the vegetables roast separately with herbs and butter. The sauce is made from stock, wine and the drippings left behind in the pan."

Seoha listened intently, looking like she was filing all that information away in her head. The cook chuckled at the sight.

"Though, truth be told, good ingredients and not burning everything is about half the battle," he said, hoping to have quenched her thirst for knowledge. 

But he was wrong. Seoha did not let up on her questions.

"And how do you know when it's done?"

"Experience."

"That is not an answer."

"It is the only answer."

Jay had to stifle a laugh as Seoha interrogated the poor cook. At this point, he was no longer surprised by her behaviour.

She shot him a look once the silent chuckle left him. He looked downright entertained. Her eyes narrowed playfully at him.

"Are you laughing at me?"

Jay quickly shook his head, though the smile remained on his lips.

"Never would I dare. Jester's word." He made a cross sign on his chest.

"That does mean nothing!"

"So you're saying you don't trust me?"

That made Seoha bite her tongue. It was ridiculous to her for him to ask that.

Because he already knew the answer.

While they were busy staring at each other, the cook plated their meal, pulling out some cutlery before sliding it over to them.

"Voilà! Bon appétit." The cook did not linger any longer, getting back to his own tasks once again.

The smell was heavenly. Everything looked downright perfect, from the perfectly seared meat to the roasted vegetables, and the sauce was the cherry on top. The sight made Seoha's mouth water and she only realised then how hungry she was the entire day. 

Without saying anything, she cut herself a piece and tasted it. The meat practically melted on her tongue. Rich flavours spread across her palate, drawing a quiet sigh from her lips.

"Good?" Jay suddenly asked.

Seoha paused, licking her lips before she responded.

"Very," she said without looking up from her plate.

Jay looked unbearably pleased with himself.

"As expected. I do have excellent taste."

"You did not cook it."

"I selected the chef."

Seoha rolled her eyes before she went back to devouring her meal. Meanwhile, Jay watched her, smiling to himself as he saw how much she enjoyed it.

In no time, both of their plates were empty, no crumbs left. Bam took the liberty of hopping onto the counter and licking their plates clean. Jay laughed while Seoha obviously panicked.

"I do not think that it is appropriate," she said, trying to pry Bam off the plates.

Jay waved her off, gently prying her fingers away from Bam. "It is. The plates have to be washed anyway. That way, it's less dirt on them."

Her fingers brushed his before she pulled away. "I hate that it makes sense somewhat," she muttered.

"I'm one reasonable man." He puffed out his chest, pulling a laugh from her. 

Eventually, they left the kitchen with Bam cradled in her arms, but not before thanking the chef. The kitchen doors closed behind them. The sound of footsteps carried through the halls as they began to walk back. The sun was now nearly set, the last sunlight spilling through the windows creating shadows. Talking could be heard from down the hall, making Jay pause in his step.

"I guess this is our sign to part ways now," he said, smiling softly at her. "Goodnight, Seoha."

Maybe it was the light that played tricks on her mind, but she could swear there was something in his eyes that made her hold her breath for just a second. Her cheeks warmed when she let her mind stray too far, before she quickly pulled herself out of it.

"Goodnight, Jay."

He gave her one dramatic bow before disappearing in the other direction. Seoha stared after him for a second longer. While she walked further down the hallway, Bam let out a small growl in the direction from which the voices were drawing closer.

Two women appeared, one a noblewoman and the other her maid. Seoha recognised the lady. She was not as scrutinising as some other ladies in court were. Seoha and her were kind enough to one another but certainly not friends — nor acquaintances.

The woman smiled at her. "Good evening, Lady Seoha."

Seoha gave her a kind nod back. "Lady Iseul, what a pleasure."

Lady Iseul came to a stop in front of her, noticing the lack of Eunbi by her side but did not comment on it. Instead, she took a step closer, making sure to keep her voice low.

"People talk, Lady Seoha. Not kindly," she said, pausing to formulate her next words carefully. "Fools survive by being useful."

She gave Seoha one last smile before going on her way. Seoha did not even have the time to ask Lady Iseul what she meant. It certainly was not a jab. It sounded more like advice. However, that was exactly what made it so difficult to understand. What did she want to imply with that?

Once she reached her room, Bam hopped out of her arms and landed gracefully on the floor.

"Do you want to stay here tonight?" she asked her cat since he usually stayed somewhere else she had never managed to discover.

Seoha opened the doors to see if he would get inside. To her surprise, he did. The feline roamed her room like it belonged to him, promptly jumping onto Seoha's bed to curl into a ball at the foot of the bed. A warm feeling settled in her chest at the adorable sight. 

Eunbi came in, having been in Seoha's private sitting room adjoined to her chambers.

"Finally here again, my lady?" Eunbi asked and immediately began to help Seoha out of her dress.

Seoha nodded, moving her hair out of the way for her maid. "What did you tell my parents?"

Her friend smirked before saying, "Simply that you had to finalise some arrangements for the orphanage and the letter that Lord Lee was the one to issue the funding officially. However, I am sure my lady had a far more enjoyable evening."

The lady looked back at her maid, sharing a smile before she nodded. "Thank you."

"Though I must advise you to be careful."

"I know. I have heard it already." Seoha stepped out of her dress and slipped into her nightgown.

"Good. I will see to you in the morning. Goodnight, Lady Seoha."

Seoha nodded. "Goodnight, Eunbi. Sleep well."

The maid dipped her head before she was out of the room. Seoha blew out the candles before she crawled into bed, joining Bam, who immediately padded over and curled up beside her. A content sigh escaped her before she closed her eyes.

Yet no matter how tightly she shut her eyes, Lady Iseul's words refused to leave her mind.

Chapter Text

Lady Iseul's words did not leave Seoha's mind. The whole situation felt strange, almost surreal. She knew exactly who Lady Iseul had meant — it was obvious — but she could not imagine Jay doing something simply for the sake of being useful to someone. He was a troublemaker, not a helping hand.

Or at least that was what she liked to tell herself.

Because despite everything, he had always been kind. Seoha had witnessed that with her own eyes.

The matter had been bothering her for days.

Thankfully, the busy streets of town provided enough distraction for now. Beside her, Eunbi listened attentively to Lord Lee's speech in front of the orphanage while Seoha struggled to keep her boredom from showing.

Of course, she was delighted that the children would finally receive the necessities they needed. What she did not appreciate was Lord Lee taking credit for all of it. Unfortunately, that had been part of their agreement. He stood before the gathered crowd with his chest puffed out proudly, as if Seoha had not spent weeks pleading her case before she finally got permission.

Nevertheless, the townspeople appeared mesmerised by his seemingly heartfelt words. At last, Lord Lee gestured towards the waiting carriages, and servants began carrying boxes of clothes and shoes through the orphanage doors. 

It was remarkable how convinced Lord Lee seemed that any of this had been his idea. Thankfully, Lord Lee concluded his speech at last and waved farewell to the crowd. In obvious haste, he climbed into his carriage. A faint "get me out of here" could be heard before the horses galloped away.

"You seem so sad to see him go, Lady Seoha," Eunbi teased, walking along with Seoha to the entrance.

The lady only rolled her eyes at her friend. She had endured Lord Lee's horrible speech; she was allowed to be somewhat annoyed. She did not bother responding. She knew Eunbi would simply continue her teasing. Fortunately, the orphanage director welcomed them before Eunbi could continue her teasing.

"Lady Seoha, we are so delighted that you made it," he said, bowing deeply in gratitude. "The kids and staff are beyond happy for your help once again. Is there anything that I can do for you?"

It was heartwarming to hear that the kids were already enjoying their new clothes. Seoha shook her head, giving the director a polite smile. "I do not need anything in return. It simply is enough hearing that the kids are fine and the orphanage is doing well. If a problem occurs once again, feel free to write a letter to me."

The director nodded before the head matron came up to the two girls. "My apologies, Lady Seoha, but the kids are asking for you."

Eunbi looked near ecstatic to hear about the kids. She gave Seoha a pleading smile to spend some time with the little rascals again. Seoha sighed and nodded, following the head matron to the children in the playroom. Immediately, there was excited chatter and bright smiles once their eyes landed on the lady and the maid. They ran up to them, simultaneously asking questions and showing them their brand new clothes which they already got their hands on. Eunbi picked up one of the children, a little boy, and secured him on her hip.

Seoha's eyes travelled over to the little girl she had played princess with before. Said girl rushed up to her, tugging on her skirt before Seoha kneeled down a bit.

"Lady Seoha, Lady Seoha! I got a new dress. Look!" The little girl twirled around, her dress flaring out beautifully.

The lady's eyes softened once she saw the sheer happiness in the little girl's expression. "You look beautiful. Like a real little princess," Seoha said, her voice soft for the first time that day.

The girl gasped, smiling from ear to ear before tugging gently on her arm. "Can you play with us? We wanna have a tea party."

Seoha's head turned over to Eunbi, noting that she was still busy with the children herself. A few minutes would not hurt, she thought. Her eyes met the little girl's, giving her a nod. 

"A tea party? I hope I am not too late."

"Never! It's always tea time." The girl guided Seoha to a small table where a stuffed bunny and mouse were sitting along with two other girls. A chuckle escaped her before she sat down on one of the tiny chairs. Her knees were practically level with her chest, but Seoha tried not to let it bother her. The other two girls gave her excited grins as the lady joined their table.

The clinking of tiny cups and rattling of chairs filled their small bubble as their tea party continued with their new guest. Introductions were made with the rabbit and the mouse plushie sitting on either side of Seoha. She had to bite back a laugh at the ridiculousness of it all. 

But it was endearing nonetheless.

Surprisingly enough, Seoha actually had fun playing with the little girls. The girls had the time of their lives, mesmerised by her explanations of etiquette and how to properly hold a teacup.

Unfortunately, even tea parties had to come to an end.

The girls complained quietly as their guest had to leave them now, setting their teacups down.

"You have to come back soon!" one of them said.

"Yes! We'll have another tea party then."

"And we wanna hear more about court."

Seoha could not help the fond smile that spread across her lips at the sight of the three girls.

But duty eventually called her back to the palace.

She slowly stood up from the tiny chair. A small groan left her lips when she did so. Seoha's back protested immediately after sitting hunched over for so long. One of her knees popped before she stood to her full height once again.

"I promise to come back as soon as I can," Seoha said, smiling down at each of the girls.

Smiles and excited chatter were immediate before they rushed up to her and hugged Seoha. She was momentarily frozen, not knowing what she should do right now. Eventually, she settled on gently patting the girls' heads before clearing her throat.

"Now I hope you will behave until I am back," she said before extracting herself from the hugs. The girls all nodded and waved goodbye to her.

Chuckling to herself, Seoha turned around to go and fetch Eunbi from her own circle of kids. The sight was absolutely hilarious. Eunbi was practically covered by them. They clung to her and played with her apron. She looked purely delighted, not at all overstimulated by the children.

"Eunbi, we ought to go now." Seoha finally approached her, standing behind her friend.

The children around Eunbi protested, telling her to stay a bit longer and play with them, but their pleadings were gently turned down.

"I am sorry kids, but the Lady and I have to go now. We will visit you lot soon."

Pouting faces looked up at Eunbi, but eventually the children released her. She slowly untangled herself from them before joining Seoha by the door. The both of them smiled at the kids and waved goodbye before they stepped out.

The afternoon sun greeted them as they began walking back towards the palace.

"Are you sure you do not want me to call a carriage, Lady Seoha?"

Seoha shook her head, picking up her dress to walk better over the cobble streets. "Certain. The weather is nice enough to walk home." She looked over at Eunbi. "Unless you feel unwell? We can call a carriage if you would like."

Eunbi smiled at her. "I am all right. Let us walk home, then."

The rest of the day proved exhausting. Court obligations, responding to endless letters, and socialising with nobles to maintain connections; it all took a toll on Seoha. Lucky for her, she had Yerin by her side to have at least somewhat of a good time. 

Eunbi accompanied her to her chambers once again for the evening. They were about to open the doors when Seoha stopped her.

"You can retire early for the night. I need some time to unwind from the day," she said, smiling at her maid. "Have a good night, Eunbi."

Eunbi bowed before smiling back at her. "You, too, Lady Seoha."

She turned around and walked down the hallway. Seoha looked after her until Eunbi's footsteps faded into the shadows of the corridor. Sighing to herself, she pushed open her doors to her bedroom. Her feet carried her over to the edge of her bed before letting herself fall onto the covers. For just a short moment, she closed her eyes. All the events from the day ran through her head as she searched for flaws in her actions, hoping to improve herself in future encounters.

A sudden knock startled her. Seoha sat up immediately. It did not sound like it came from the doors. 

Tap, tap, tap.

It came again.

Her head whirled over to the window. Confusion drew her brows together. Was it a bird? It could not be. What bird tapped on a window repeatedly like that?

Seoha stood up, hesitantly approaching the window and opened it. A scream nearly tore from her throat before a hand quickly covered her mouth. Her furious and shocked eyes met his dark brown ones, holding a hint of mischief with clear amusement.

"Don't look so gleeful to see your favourite person."

She rolled her eyes and mumbled something against his hand. Jay chuckled before finally pulling his hand away.

"What was that?"

"I asked what you were doing here — and how you even got up here."

Jay simply shrugged, now fully coming to sit on her windowsill. "I climbed," he said, like it was the most obvious thing in the world.

Seoha leaned out of the window to look down. Sure enough, there were vines creeping up the palace walls. Jay's hand hovered near her back, making sure that she did not somehow fall out of the window. His hand dropped away once she straightened up again, fixing him with a look.

"You did not answer my question."

He sighed, folding his arms and giving her a small smirk. "Can't I just visit you? Or is that prohibited all of a sudden."

Seoha sighed and leaned back on the opposite of the window frame. He was being ridiculous on purpose again.

"I was just curious," she said. "You can always visit me." Seoha muttered the last part almost like an afterthought.

But Jay heard it. Of course he did. The smirk which covered his face turned soft once he heard that.

"Then I will."

Without thinking, Jay reached out and tugged Seoha closer to the window. "I want to show you something."

Her cheeks warmed at his touch before realisation washed over her. He was urging her closer to the window. The drop of two stories loomed before them. Seoha's feet stopped short, but Jay's hand on the small of her back stayed warm, reassuring.

"Climbing down is easier than up," he told her, trying to help ease her fears.

She watched as Jay climbed back out, looking up at her through the open window as he held one hand out. Hesitantly, she took it. His hand immediately wrapped around hers as Seoha neared the window.

"What if someone hears us? What if someone notices?"

"They won't. You're stealthy now, right? I'm not that bad of a teacher."

A soft chuckle left her, remembering back to his ridiculous lessons. Seoha would never admit it to him, but she tried to get better at his small tasks whenever she had the time to. She was no pro like he was, but she got better.

Her feet swung over the edge now, sitting on the frame. Jay's hand left hers to steady her on her waist. The thumping of her heart increased with every move she made out of her room — and with every warm touch of his hands she felt on her body.

"What if I fall?" she all but whispered.

"Then I will catch you." His answer was immediate.

Jay eased her around, making sure her feet found steady ground before he himself climbed down a little. The climb was nothing for him, but Seoha struggled tremendously. Her heart beat out of her chest, her hands shook, and sweat made it difficult to hold onto the vines properly.

The last few metres, Jay jumped down, landing gracefully on his feet. Seoha gaped at the sight of the jump down, clinging tighter to the vines. He saw her struggles and instantly stepped closer, holding his arms out.

"Jump," he promptly called.

"Have you gone mad!"

"I will if you don't jump."

Seoha hesitated. Her fingers were slick with sweat, not being able to hold on any longer all the way down. The images and what ifs also got louder and louder in her head.

What if a vine broke off? What if she stepped wrong?

"Seoha." Jay's voice broke her out of her thoughts. "I promised I will catch you."

Carefully, she looked over her shoulder down at him and saw the earnestness in his eyes reflected by the full moon. Strangely, her heart calmed down just a bit before she braced herself. One hand released the vine before flying to her mouth in case she screamed.

And then she jumped.

Seoha's eyes squeezed shut as the wind rushed past her ears. For a moment, Seoha thought she would fall forever. It felt almost liberating in a bizarre and strange way.

But then warmth rushed through her as she felt warm arms cradle her to a solid chest.

Jay held her like that for a moment, letting her calm down at her own time. He felt her tremble slightly from adrenaline and held her closer, adjusting her slightly in his arms. 

"You did amazing," he murmured softly into her ear.

Instantly, Seoha felt her muscles relax once she realised that she was safe. Her hand slowly dropped from her mouth before settling on his shoulder. Jay took that as an indication to finally put her down. He lowered her carefully, keeping both hands on her waist even after her feet touched the ground. Judging by how pale she looked, he was not entirely convinced she would remain standing. His thumbs absently traced small circles on her waist.

"You okay again?" he asked after a few moments.

Seoha nodded, meeting his eyes before giving him a small smile. No word was uttered from her. She did not trust her voice not to waver from the fall.

Jay was satisfied enough with her answer before dropping one of his hands and guiding her in the direction he wanted them to go. Thankfully, the full moon illuminated their path, painting the gardens in a beautiful glow. They passed some familiar turns and pathways before their surroundings grew more and more abandoned and rugged. 

Seoha became increasingly sceptical when she no longer recognised their surroundings. She was about to protest when a beautiful greenhouse stood before them.

It looked run down, as though nobody cared for it any longer and had completely forgotten its existence. Branches and vines climbed up the glass walls on every side. Inside were wild flowers of all kinds, but one stood out to Seoha.

Moonflowers.

It was as if they were glowing under the moonlight, thriving. The scene looked so inviting and calm, conveying some sort of serenity. Awestruck, Seoha stepped closer, opening the glass doors and stepping inside. Jay followed her inside, watching the wonder spread across her face with quiet satisfaction.

"I found this place while wandering around one night," he said quietly, breaking the silence. "You said they were your favourite, right?" Jay picked a flower and twirled it in between his fingers.

Seoha turned around, momentarily struck by the beauty of it all before she gave him a bright smile. He took a step closer and tugged her hair behind her ear before placing the flower there. The blush which followed and covered the tips of Seoha's ears was immediate.

Pushing those weird feelings aside, she asked, "Why did you bring me here?"

Jay merely shrugged. "I thought you might enjoy it. And I was right." He nodded to her current complexion, smirking. "Plus, I didn't see you all day long. Thought you might need some relaxation from all the stress — and a small adventure."

To her dismay, Jay was right. All day long, she had no second to herself, not counting the small moment to herself before Jay knocked on her window. Seoha missed some relaxing moments — and maybe the company of a certain someone.

Normally, she would have given him a flippant response. The 'small adventure' nearly gave her some heart palpitations — but it was somehow fun nonetheless.

"Thank you," was all Seoha said. Jay smiled once he heard that and offered her his hand. Without hesitation, Seoha took it this time.

He guided her further back towards a small broken bench claimed by time and nature. The both of them sat down, getting comfortable as their shoulders brushed against each other. Neither of them seemed to realise — or care — that Seoha's hand stayed in Jay's larger one. 

The atmosphere was comfortable. No people talking, no annoying nobles, no duties — just the flowers surrounding them in this greenhouse. It was because of this feeling that it hit Seoha then how much time she had spent with him and how little she actually knew of Jay. The conversation with Yerin came to her mind again the day after Jay first appeared in court. How strange his name actually was.

Seoha looked over at him, seeing him caught up in his own head before he felt her eyes on him.

"Jay. Is that your actual name?" She thought it was best to simply ask him straight on.

He stayed silent for a second, staring into her eyes as if calculating his next words. A slow smirk came onto his features.

"People have many names. You have lots of names, too."

Utter confusion washed over her face. She was certain she only had one name. Not knowing things irked her more than some of his annoying stunts.

"What do you mean?"

Jay leaned back, gently extracting his hand from Seoha's before he put his arm over the back of the bench.

"The daughter of Duke Kang. The Lady. My Lady. Lady Seoha. Or simply, my favourite, Seoha."

Her lips parted in slight astonishment as he listed those different titles and names for her. The thought had never occurred to her that those titles had become names of their own.

"Curious and curiouser, isn't it? You know what else is interesting?" Jay tilted his head slightly, amusement shimmering in his eyes.

Seoha leaned in closer, desperate to know what he meant. "What?"

Jay's smirk softened into a smile, finding it adorable how she yearned for knowledge.

"You still remember how I talked about masks?"

She immediately nodded. "Of course." Seoha still remembered the agitation she felt when he accused her of being a different person around court.

"Titles tell people who they should think you are. Your name tells them who you actually are," he said. "The titles belong to everyone else. Seoha belongs to you."

A quiet gasp left her lips once she internalised his words. Jay's eyes were automatically drawn to her lips by the small sound that came from Seoha before meeting her eyes once more.

Seoha's heart beat faster the longer they held eye contact. Both of them felt completely lost in the moment, mesmerised by each other. The tips of his fingers brushed over her arm, feeling slight goosebumps rise on her skin. That finally reminded him of how late it was and how cold it must have gotten.

"Come on." Jay cleared his throat. "Let's get you back to your cozy bed." He stood up with Seoha, keeping his arm around her to keep her warm the entire way back.

It felt right in a strange way to walk with him like that. Seoha did not push him away or argue with him to let her go. Jay realised the same thing and gave her a small, playful squeeze, drawing a small chuckle from her. The moon had already set by the time they left the greenhouse, but Jay did not need the light to guide them back. He knew his way around.

They snuck back in through the servants' entrance. Jay knew Seoha would protest if he suggested to climb back up into her room, so he chose the safer option. Carefully, Jay closed the door behind them before they quietly snuck through the corridors.

Seoha could not help herself but grin as Jay led her by her hand back to her chambers. Jay felt equally as thrilled, keeping a steady grip on her hand before he had to stop short. Footsteps echoed around the corner.

Seoha gasped as Jay quickly pulled her with him before pressing her against a wall. He caged her in, using the dark colours of his clothes to blend them into the shadows. His arm came up to press against the wall while his other wrapped around her waist. Jay stood completely still, waiting for the footsteps to fade.

Meanwhile, Seoha's face got pressed against his shoulder, her hands fisted his clothes on either side of him. She could feel his racing heartbeat against her chest. It was probably because of the adrenaline coursing through him. Once he was sure they were gone, Jay met Seoha's eyes before quickly guiding her with him to her chambers. 

They came to a stop in front of her doors. Seoha hesitated to go in, her hand frozen mid-motion. She wanted to show her gratitude for him. He snuck her out and gave her some stolen beautiful moments with him. She was beyond grateful.

Without much thinking, she wrapped her arms around his neck, hugging him. Jay froze for a short moment, too overwhelmed by the sudden intimacy before slowly wrapping his arms around her waist.

"Thank you again. Goodnight, Jay," Seoha whispered under her breath.

Jay's arms tightened just a bit at the sound of his name on her lips.

"Goodnight, Seoha," he murmured against her hair before slowly releasing her.

He reached out and opened the doors for her, urging her inside. Seoha gave him a small smile before disappearing into her chambers. A small sigh left her lips once the door clicked shut behind her.

Her daily night routine was engraved in her brain to the point of it being instinctual. She pulled off her dress, removed her jewellery, and stepped into her nightgown.

Seoha's chest felt lighter than before. All the stress from the day felt nearly nonexistent after the time spent with Jay. She carefully extracted the moonflower from behind her ear and set it onto her nightstand like it was some treasure.

As she fell into bed, something came to her mind.

That devious guy had never told her his real name.