Early in the morning, in the prince's manor.
Prince Nikolai fluttered his eyes open. When he turned to his side, he was surprised to see Rodion leaning at the edge of his bed, sleeping while he was holding his hand firmly. A smile graced his face as he stared at his sleeping face.
He turned to his side and raised a hand, gently brushing Rodion's hair away from his face. Suddenly, he felt Rodion's grip on his hand tighten, as if unwilling to let go. Despite his awkward position—sitting on the cold floor and leaning against the bed—Rodion slept peacefully.
Prince Nikolai raised the hand Rodion was holding and gently intertwined their fingers. He clasped Rodion's hand securely, gazing at it with a soft, intimate smile. The difference in their size and complexions made the prince smile warmly.
Their supposed date yesterday had been a total mess. A chuckle rumbled in his throat as he recalled what had happened.
"…Kolya?"