Friendship, Regardless Of The Situation

After a brief moment of silence, the King stood up and turned to Matthew, his expression stoic, "What was that for?" he whispered, his voice above whispering, "Do you have any idea how humiliating that was for me?"

Matthew stood up slowly, thinking he might've pushed his dear King's buttons too much, "Your Majesty, I'm sorry about that," then he grabbed the King's gloves, handing it over to him, "But I'm sure Nery wouldn't spread what he had saw, I mean, did you even looked at his expression? That kid is keeping up his facade." he chuckled afterwards.

Being so many years with the King since he grew up, Matthew knew how to handle this kind of situation.

The King hesitated for a moment, his eyes on the gloves in Matthew's hand. He realized that Matthew's words were true, and he knew that Nery was a loyal servant who would never betray him. With a slow nod, he took the gloves from Matthew and put them back on.

"Still," The King muttered, the crimson color to the tips of his ears hadn't faded a bit, "You're already thirty-two, don't keep playing around just like that."

Matthew nodded, his face neutral. He knew that the King was right, and that his actions were not entirely appropriate. But he also knew that he couldn't help himself sometimes. He had always been a mischievous character, and he found amusement in causing chaos and disorder.

"I understand, Your Majesty," Matthew said, his voice low, "I will try to be more mindful in the future. But I must admit, I do enjoy a good prank or two." He laughed softly, his eyes glimmering with mischief.

The King sighed, shaking his head, "Just don't let it happen again," he said. "I don't want anyone finding out. It would be too embarrassing."

Matthew nods, "Understood, Your Majesty."

After a brief moment, Matthew smiled at the King. Seeing this contagious smile, Kaiser immediately turned his head away, "Smiling won't waver the humiliation." 

Ignoring the King's comment, Matthew walked closer and cupped Kaiser's face gently, turning it back toward him. With a soft peck on Kaiser's cheek, right where his mole was, he offered a tender and affectionate kiss, his way of expressing his sincere care and devotion.

Kaiser's eyes widened in surprise at Matthew's unexpected gesture. His cheeks flushed a deeper shade of red, partly from the lingering embarrassment of the situation and partly from the sudden intimacy of the kiss. His heart skipped a beat, not out of affection, but out of sheer surprise.

The King flinched, taken aback by Matthew's sudden gesture. Matthew quickly wiped his kiss, feeling a wave of embarrassment wash over him, "I'm sorry, Your Majesty," he said, his voice low, "I know that was inappropriate. I just…"

The King cut him off with a raised hand, "I know," he said, his voice kind, "I know. It's just…" He trailed off, seeming to struggle to find the right words.

Matthew understood his dilemma. He had let his emotions get the best of him, and he knew that he had complicated their already precarious relationship. But he also knew that he couldn't take back what he had done. All he could do was try to make amends.

"I'm sorry, Your Majesty," he repeated, his voice even quieter this time, "It won't happen again."

"But, Your Majesty," Matthew added, he smiled, "I'm very proud of you, you've done plenty in just a short time. That kiss.. It's supposed to be a reward but I knew that's inappropriate of me."

The King's eyes softened at Matthew's words. He knew that he was still a little embarrassed, but it was nice to hear that Matthew was proud of him. It was a reminder of the progress they had made together, and it made him feel more motivated to continue on his journey as a ruler.

"Thank you, Matthew," he said, his voice soft, "Your support means everything to me. And I know that I wouldn't be where I am today without you by my side. As for the kiss, let's just consider it a symbol of our friendship. We have come a long way together, and I value that more than anything else."

Matthew grinned at the King's words, feeling a sense of relief wash over him. He knew that the kiss had been a mistake, but he also knew that their relationship was built on trust and understanding. And if the King could forgive him, then he knew that he could forgive himself as well.

"Of course, Your Majesty," he said, still smiling, "I'm glad we could come to an understanding. And I promise to always be by your side."

The King and Matthew were deep in their chat when they heard a sudden knock on the study door. Surprised, they shifted their focus to the entrance, where Elias and Ezra had just shown up, bringing along some yummy bread and pastries from Helen's Bakery.

Elias had indeed grown taller since the last time they had seen each other, and the King couldn't help but notice the young man's transformation. There was a warmth in the King's eyes, and a hint of nostalgia for the times when Elias had been a more regular presence in the palace. He missed having Elias around, despite their differences in station and preferences.

Ezra, on the other hand, appeared a bit apprehensive, her respect for the King and the palace still prevailing over any familiarity. She nodded respectfully and greeted the King with a polite curtsey.

"Your Majesty," she said in a soft but respectful tone.

Kaiser acknowledged her with a nod and a warm smile, "Ezra, it's good to see you both," he said, shifting his gaze between the two of them, "You've brought gifts, I see. That's very kind of you."

Elias smiled, his youthful enthusiasm evident, "Of course, Your Majesty. We thought you might appreciate some of our bakery's finest offerings. It's been too long since we last visited, and we wanted to show our appreciation for your support."

Kaiser appreciated the gesture, and the warmth in his eyes remained, "Thank you, Elias. I must say, you've grown taller since I last saw you."

Elias blushed slightly, rubbing the back of his head, "Yes, Your Majesty, I suppose I have. Time flies, doesn't it?"

The King chuckled softly, nodding in agreement, "Indeed it does. But it's good to see you both. Your presence brightens my day. Please, have a seat, and let's enjoy these delicious treats together."

Ezra fidgeted before talking, "Um.. I.. I'm afraid I won't be joining, the Queen is summoning me so.." 

Upon hearing Ezra's hesitance, the King offered her an understanding smile. He knew that the Queen's summons took precedence, and he appreciated her initial visit despite her busy schedule.

"I understand, Ezra," Kaiser said, his voice warm and considerate, "Duty calls, and I wouldn't want to keep you from your responsibilities. Please convey my regards to the Queen."

Ezra nodded with a sense of relief, appreciating the King's understanding. "Thank you, Your Majesty. I'll be sure to do so."

However, before Ezra could make her exit, Matthew, ever the mischievous one, chimed in with a sly grin aimed at Elias, "Your Majesty, I'll also take my leave," he said, his eyes dancing with amusement, "I have many things to attend to."

The King couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at Matthew's comment. Their earlier conversation seemed to have left a mark on the concubine, and his intentions remained as enigmatic as ever. Still, Kaiser nodded, acknowledging Matthew's decision, "Very well, Matthew. You have your own responsibilities to attend to. Until next time."

With that, Ezra and Matthew took their leave, leaving Elias and the King in the study. The visit had been brief but enjoyable, and it left a sense of camaraderie and connection that the King cherished. As they departed, Kaiser returned his attention to Elias, a small smile playing on his lips.

"Well, it seems it's just the two of us now," he said, the warmth in his eyes evident, "Shall we continue our conversation, Elias?"

Elias couldn't quite hold back his smile, though he did his best to maintain his composure in front of the King. He had known Kaiser just a few months ago, though it was not a good impression, Kaiser had always been kind and encouraging, and over the months they had developed a bond that felt like a brotherhood.

But with the King's smile and the intimacy of their one-on-one conversation, Elias couldn't help but feel a flutter in his chest. He fidgeted slightly, feeling the heat in his cheeks that he tried desperately to hide. He was aware that he was not in the same league as Kaiser, as far as status and privilege were concerned, and yet the King made him feel like an equal, like a friend.

As Kaiser looked at Elias with his kind eyes, Kaiser couldn't help but feel a strange sense of comfort. It was as if all the worries and doubts that weighed on his shoulders had somehow vanished, leaving only a sense of calm. 

Elias took a deep breath, trying to center himself, and then nodded in response to the King's question, "Yes, Your Majesty, of course," he said, his voice steady, "I would be honored to continue our conversation."

"So," The King picked a pastry on the basket with his gloved hands and bit on it, "How's your progress at the academy?"

Kaiser's gaze, warm and encouraging, met Elias's eyes, inviting him to share. Elias, though initially a bit nervous, found solace in the King's presence. It was rare to feel such genuine kindness and understanding from someone of his stature, and Elias was determined to make the most of this opportunity.

"Thank you, Your Majesty," Elias replied, his voice soft but confident. He settled into his seat, his hands folding on his lap. "My studies at the academy have been going well. I've been dedicating myself to my courses, and my professors seem to be pleased with my progress. I've recently started working at Helen's Bakery as a waiter during my free hours. It's been a delightful experience, and I'm learning a lot about customer service and pastries."

Kaiser nodded, a proud smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "That's excellent to hear, Elias. Balancing academics and practical experience is crucial. It sounds like you're managing both admirably."

As the conversation flowed, Elias couldn't help but notice the King sipping from a glass of wine, a departure from his usual preference for tea. It caught him off guard, and he couldn't suppress his curiosity.

"Your Majesty, may I ask about your choice of wine?" Elias asked respectfully, "I've always known you to prefer tea, so this is quite a surprise. If I may be so bold, how is your tolerance for wine?"

The King couldn't help but chuckle as he sipped, "Where did you get that information?" 

Elias felt his heart sink to the floor as he realized the mistake he had made in assuming the King's preference. The King's chuckle was an unexpected response, but as Elias raised his head again, he was relieved to see the King's smile.

"Your Majesty, I apologize for making an assumption. Please, forgive me," Elias said, lowering his head in respect.

The King waved his hand dismissively, "No need to apologize, Elias. I understand the curiosity. As for my tolerance, I could handle beyond your imagination."

Elias nodded thoughtfully. He knew the King to be a sophisticated man who was well-versed in the arts of culture and etiquette, and it was not surprising to learn that he had a discerning palate for wine, "That is very interesting, Your Majesty. Do you have any particular varieties that you prefer?"

The King leaned back in his chair and took another sip of wine, "As a matter of fact, I do. I've grown quite fond of rice wines or any fruit flavored wines, and brandy over the years."

Elias found himself fascinated by the King's preferences. He had never heard of anyone enjoying rice wines or fruit-flavored alcohol. He knew that rice wines were traditionally produced in the other kingdoms and were often used as offerings in religious ceremonies. He had also heard of brandy being used in cooking, but he had never thought of drinking it on its own.

"Your Majesty, I must admit, I've never tried any of those before. It must be quite an experience," Elias said.

The King nodded, "Yes, it is a unique experience. Rice wines have a delicate and subtle flavor, while brandy is a strong, sweet and smooth drink. I like the balance between the two, it makes for an interesting and enjoyable drinking experience."

Elias listened carefully, taking in the King's words. He had always admired the King's refined taste and his ability to appreciate the finer things in life. He was amazed at his ability to see the beauty in everything. 

The further he talked with the King, the more he got interested. It was such a nice timing to talk with the King, because he'd been lovesick even though there's nothing in between them. Every night, he couldn't sleep because of this man, how could he take Elias's heart so simply just like that?

They're so close yet so far.

Elias had never felt this way about anyone before, and he didn't know how to deal with it. He couldn't concentrate on his work, or sleep at night. He would often find himself lost in thought, imagining what it would be like to be with the King.

Elias felt a sense of embarrassment wash over him. He knew he shouldn't be feeling this way, but he couldn't help it. Every night, he would lie awake, staring at the ceiling, wishing for the King to notice him. He was tired of feeling like this, but he didn't know how to make it stop.

He was so lost in thought, thinking about the King's charming smile, his wise words, and their shared love of wine and literature. He was surprised to find that he had never talked to anyone like this before.

"Your Majesty, you are truly one of a kind. Your knowledge and understanding of the world is astounding," Elias said, not realizing he had spoken out loud.

The King chuckled and leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table, "I am flattered, Elias. But I'm just a normal man, with flaws and faults, just like everyone else."

Elias smiled softly and reached for another piece of pastry, "But your ability to appreciate beauty, from the smallest details in life to the grandest concepts in our world, is what sets you apart. It is truly a privilege to be in your presence."

The King raised an eyebrow, "I must admit, I had not thought of myself in such a way. I have always appreciated the beauty in things, from the natural world to the creative expressions of human art. But I never realized that it was considered a rarity in the world. I must thank you, Elias, for helping me see myself in a different light."

"You're also pretty too," The King said, as he sipped the wine.

Elias's face immediately flushed with color, his heart racing with excitement. He couldn't believe the King had just called him pretty. It was the first time he had felt anything like this before, and he wasn't sure how to react.

"Your Majesty, I don't know what to say...that's so kind of you to say."

Out of the blue, the King suddenly puffed a soft laugh, his shoulders quivering and his earrings swaying in motion. There's no telling what is funny about Elias' statement, but Elias was too preoccupied to think what was funny, because he had never heard the King's laugh before.

Elias smiled at the sight of the King's laugh. It was a warm and soothing sound that made Elias feel at ease. He had never seen the King laugh before, and it made him realize that the King was just like anyone else, with a sense of humor and a light-heartedness that he might have never expected.

"Your Majesty, you have a beautiful laugh," Elias said softly.

"Oh, don't be such a smooth operator Elias," the King said, calming himself as he brushed his gloved hand through his raven hair, "You're too young for that." 

Seriously, how much did this kid learn when I didn't see him?

Elias was caught off-guard by the King's reaction, but he quickly regained his composure. He knew he had pushed the boundaries of propriety with his comment, but he couldn't help it. The King's laugh was so genuine and warm that he felt he had to say something.

"I apologize if my comment was inappropriate, Your Majesty. It was not my intention to offend you in any way." he immediately replied.

"Oh dear," the King started to laugh again, "This is too… adorable." He covered his lips using his gloved hand to hide it, thinking it's very unlikely of him, but he couldn't stop laughing for no reason. Just a simple misunderstanding like this, he couldn't help but laugh, especially around Elias.

Elias felt his heart melt at the sight of the King's laugh. He had never seen the King laugh so genuinely before, and it was such a beautiful sight to behold. He couldn't help but smile at the King's laughter, even though he had no idea what was so funny about what he had said.

"Um, Your Majesty," Elias suddenly called.

"Yes?" The King replied, regaining his composure.

"When is your birthday?" 

"The first spring, March twentieth," He cleared his throat, "Why'd you ask?"

Elias fidgeted again, shifting his sitting position, should he tell? 

Nevermind, he'll tell it, "I was planning if I could give you a gift on your birthday, like I did last time."

The last time he was talking about when the King had his 5th birthday.

The King seemed curious about Elias's question. He took another sip of wine, wondering what the young man was planning.

"Well, I don't know what you have in mind, but you can always give me a gift if you wish. It's not necessary, but I appreciate the thought," the King said with a gentle smile.

Elias took a deep breath and finally decided to ask. "Your Majesty, may I ask for a favor?" he began, trying to steady his voice. 

The King looked at him curiously, "Of course, Elias. What is it?"

"I would like to measure your hand," he continued nervously, "I have an idea for a gift for you on your birthday and I need the measurement to make it."

The King raised his eyebrows and gave him an amused smile, "And what kind of gift is that, if I may ask?"

Elias flushed with embarrassment. He was planning to give a pair of gloves that he handmade himself. It wasn't a luxurious gift but it was the best he could do to show his appreciation. The King must have known how much effort it took to make it, and he hoped the King would like it.

Seeing that Elias is embarrassed, he didn't push further and simply nodded. Elias couldn't help but sneak a peek at the King's hands while Kaiser took off his gloves. What he saw was unlike anything Elias had ever witnessed. The King's hands were incredibly sleek, almost out of this world in their flawless state. They were slender, with a fair complexion, almost like they belonged to a mythical being.

Kaiser's fingertips had a bit of a pinkish color, making them different from the rest of his pale skin. Elias was fascinated by this unique detail, wondering if it was something special about royalty. It was a mysterious feature that added to the aura of the King.

He had never seen anyone with these kinds of hands, is it because Kaiser is a royalty? Do royalties have this kind of hands?

Elias delicately held the King's hand, as if it was sort of a fragile glass. He shivered in this contact, he had never had that much close contact with the King, and this low-key holding hands made his stomach flutter. 

Elias measured the King's hand, trying to keep his hands steady as he did so. He was grateful that the King didn't seem to mind. Elias had never had this much physical contact with anyone before, let alone the King, and he felt a surge of heat rise to his cheeks.

As he finished measuring the King's hand, Elias could feel his heart pounding in his chest. He realized he had been holding the King's hand longer than necessary, but he couldn't bring himself to release the King's hand just yet.

"Thank you, Your Majesty," Elias said softly, reluctantly releasing the King's hand.

"I've seen news about Palm Reading, which tells one's fortune," The King suddenly said as he picked another slice of bread, "Do you know some? I'd like to ask you to read my palm before I wear the gloves." 

Even though Elias had known nothing about it, he didn't hesitate to hold the King's hand once again. 

Gathering his courage, Elias cleared his throat and began in a slightly shaky but determined voice, "Now, Your Majesty, some believe that the lines on our palms can reveal aspects of our character and our future. For example, a strong heart line could indicate a kind and loving nature, and a long life line could indicate a long and healthy life."

The King gave a nod, looking interested as he listened to Elias. As Elias lightly grasped Kaiser's hand, he playfully pretended to study the lines on the King's palm, inventing details as he went. He spoke with confidence, telling a story of triumph, abundance, and never giving up, subtly reflecting the King's own path.

"Your palm, Your Majesty, tells a story of remarkable achievements and triumphs. The lines show the path of great leadership and success," Elias said, meeting the King's eyes as he continued his fictional reading, "You have a secret admirer in your life, a person who deeply respects your strength and wisdom. They admire your resilience and determination."

At that, the King raised his eyebrows, clearly intrigued, "A secret admirer, are you saying? I have to admit, this is very interesting," he said in an amusing tone, "Tell me, do you see anything else?"

Elias hesitated for a moment before deciding to take a bold step, "Well, Your Majesty," he said, a playful glint in his eyes, "it seems that this secret admirer might be closer than you think."