It's too much

The butler moved with practiced grace, pouring warm tea into two elegant porcelain cups. He handed one to James, who accepted it with a small nod, and the other to Sebastian.

Sebastian looked at the cup and shook his head. "I don't really want tea…"

James sipped his calmly, then said, "You should. It helps boost your energy in the morning."

With a reluctant sigh, Sebastian took the cup and started drinking, the warmth slowly waking him up.

James glanced at the butler. "Any news?"

The butler bowed slightly. "Yes, Your Highness. Crown Prince Ignareth was reportedly quite upset this morning. He ordered the knights to retrieve a certain picture of a child, but they failed. He was… not pleased."

"All of a sudden?" James asked, raising a brow.

The butler nodded. "Yes. And there's also the tea party this afternoon."

Hearing that, Sebastian frowned silently. Why would someone be so upset over a missing picture?

James finished his tea and placed the cup down. "Alright. I'll handle the situation."

Sebastian handed his cup to the butler, then stood.

"Please prepare him for the tea party," James instructed.

"Yes, Your Highness," the butler replied.

Sebastian turned to James with confusion. "Why are you taking me to a tea party?"

James smiled and gently tapped his chin. "It'll be good for you. Trust me."

The butler added, "Mister Sebastian, your outfit is ready in the changing room."

"Alright…" Sebastian muttered, heading off.

He stopped briefly in the luxurious bathroom to wash his face, still wondering why he was being dragged to a royal tea party. After drying off, he entered the changing room and saw the suit laid out for him.

It was elegant—deep royal colors, gold trim, finely stitched embroidery.

Sebastian stared at it. This is too much… he thought, sighing. Why do they keep dressing me up like a prince?

The butler knocked softly before stepping into the changing room. "Mister Sebastian, do you need any help?"

Sebastian turned to him with a small, polite smile and held up the formal suit. "Um... could I please wear something lighter? This is a bit much."

The butler hesitated, clearly torn. "I'm sorry, but… this is what Prince James personally requested for you."

Sebastian sighed, knowing he wouldn't win this one. "Alright, alright. But only because he asked."

The butler gently guided him toward the mirror and began assisting him with the buttons. Sebastian quietly removed his shirt, cheeks slightly pink, still unused to being dressed like royalty.

After slipping into the elegant suit, the butler adjusted his collar and carefully brushed his hair into place. "Please don't mind all of this, Mister Sebastian," he said kindly. "It's the prince's orders. He just wants you to look your best."

Sebastian gave a soft chuckle. "I figured as much. It's okay."

Once ready, the butler stepped back to admire the result. "Breakfast is nearly ready. Shall I escort you to the dining hall?"

Sebastian nodded. "Yes, thank you. I'll head there now."

When he entered the grand dining room, Prince James was already seated at the head of the table. He looked up as Sebastian stepped in, his eyes lighting up with a warm smile.

One of the nearby maids, setting down a platter, whispered to another with sparkles in her eyes, "He's so handsome…"

Sebastian heard it and quickly looked away, his face slightly red as he made his way to the table.

Sebastian sat down in the dining chair, his posture a bit stiff from discomfort. James looked at him with a soft smile and said, "You look really good today."

Sebastian made a slightly annoyed face. "I didn't ask to be dressed like this."

James chuckled under his breath. "I can see that. But it suits you, even if you don't like it."

Sebastian sighed and muttered, "I don't want all this. I just want to go back."

James leaned in a little, his voice gentle. "It's okay. Just stay for now. Trust me."

The butler arrived, setting the breakfast plates in front of them. Sebastian bowed his head to pray, and James did the same. Once they finished, they began to eat.

"Eat well," James said, glancing at him. "You need to stay healthy."

Sebastian responded while picking up his spoon, "I know, but you look weak yourself. That strength of yours… seems a bit fake."

James smiled and waved it off. "Forget about me. Just focus on eating. You need it more than I do."

Sebastian sighed but quietly continued his meal, the food surprisingly comforting in the quiet, royal dining hall.