The Royal Fiancé -White Prince- Chapter 5

12K ++ words wwww
(I really respect fanfic writers it's amazing how they can type 20k++ words my fingers are about to fall off)

Disclaimer:

I DO NOT OWN THIS WORK, ASUMA RISAI (the author) DOES.

PS. Nobody owns Shiori either.

For any re-posts or re-uploads, please credit this blog!

This is a one man's show aka no editors, proofreaders, so on and so forth. If there's any grammatical error or terrible linguistic crime being committed in the post, just drop me a mail or a comment.

And now, on to the real stuff.

Previously on the Royal Fiance... http://blacksoulz.blogspot.com/2017/08/the-royal-fiance-white-prince-chapter-4.html

Chapter 5
Maturation sur lie/Dux

No matter how bad the relationship between the two royal brothers was, both Shou and Shiori could not possibly avoid each other forever.

The both of them had met when they had to receive the details of the upcoming dinner banquet from a servant.

The wedding ceremony, the wedding banquet --- even though such large scale events had just been held, this country continued to host extravagant and grand functions one after another.

“I humbly request Shou-sama and Shiori-sama to attend this soiree. Please note that the guests are required to invite their partners.”

It seemed that everyone was obligated to have a partner with them at this event.

That would mean that this event would have nothing to do with Shiori. Despite that, why was he still required to be present at the banquet’s briefing?

Shiori disliked such senselessly grandiose occasions - it was only due to his sense of duty as a member of the royal family that he attends such lavish events.

Especially during this time, Shiori’s presence at the dinner banquet was not something essential nor was it important.

Everyone’s focus would be on Shou, and naturally, his new wife. Kairi.

To be someone who was present to merely be a sideshow to the inseparable sappy couple was very painful for Shiori.

“The details of the banquet are as such.” After the servant had finished speaking, Shiori turned around, wanting to leave immediately.

As business matters had already been taken care of, Shiori did not have any further reason to be in the same room as Shou. Shiori could not wait to return to his workroom, but Shou quickly stopped him.

“Brother.”

“What is the matter?” Shiori looked back at Shou frustratedly.

“It appears that you have been meeting Kurosaki-san rather frequently these days.” Slightly narrowing his eyes, Shiori’s face remained expressionless.

“Kurosaki-san is a very important customer and figure to our country. Thus, I hope that you will not carry out any disrespectful actions towards him,” instructed Shou sternly. Shiori remained silent.

Nor did Shiori nod.

Just as he wanted to leave the room again, Shou continued, “For this dinner banquet, I intend to invite Kurosaki-san.”

“Is that so? Suit yourself.”

Besides, he did not even intend to show up at the banquet. Shiori was planning to use the perfect excuse of not having a partner in order to be absent from the event.

However, it seemed that Shou had seen through what he was thinking.

“Regarding the previous dinner banquet which I had invited Kurosaki-san to attend, Kairi was very regretful about your rejection to his kind invitation. Having rejected the Royal Princess, are you now planning to reject even my invitation to the event?”

Shiori’s footsteps came to a complete halt upon the mention of his previous rejection of Kairi’s invitation. Shou had addressed Kairi formally as the Royal Princess.

He had already rejected someone of such a high position once, and thus, Shiori was definitely not in any position to reject the request of another royalty, especially one of such a high standing as Shou’s.

Satisfied with Shiori’s speechless reaction that implied he was unable to do anything, Shou continued once again, “Ah yes, could you invite Kurosaki-san to attend this dinner banquet as your partner?”

“Pardon?”

“I want you to pass this invitation letter to Kurosaki-san personally.”

Paying no heed to Shiori’s reaction, Shou casually said, “Since the both of you meet so frequently, it would be better for you to be the one who hand the invitation letter to Kurosaki-san, no?”

Although Shou did not care about Shiori’s feelings nor concerns one bit, he was, in contrast, extremely courteous and thoughtful towards Kurosaki.

Shou clearly attached more importance to Kurosaki than Shiori, his own brother.

“This soiree will also be a rare opportunity to see Uncle Keisuke’s partner with your very own eyes, you know.”

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

“It’s rare of you to find me on your own initiative,” quipped Kurosaki mockingly. Just moments ago, Shiori had requested for Kurosaki to visit him in his room.

“Take this.”

Picking up the envelope that was laid on the desk neatly, Shiori handed it over to Kurosaki, who was lounging on the plush sofa that was placed in the center of the room, and returned to the place where he stood originally.

After the envelope was handed over to him rather roughly, Kurosaki opened it unhesitantly to read its contents.

The letter contained an official invitation to the soiree, bearing Shou’s signature and seal.

“There will be a banquet organised by Shou this weekend.”

Shiori was never interested in attending any banquet that was organised under Shou’s name.

However, he was in no position to refuse Shou. He could only obey Shou’s commands unwillingly.

“This is a formal letter of invitation addressed to me. How considerate of the crown prince to have you deliver it to me personally,” commented Kurosaki. He seemed very pleased with Shou’s arrangement.

“However, the invitation card states that one is expected to have a partner in attendance with them?” Kurosaki read the contents of the invitation letter aloud.

“That is correct.”

Suppressing the feelings of disgust in his heart, Shiori said to Kurosaki, “For this banquet, I would like to formally invite you to attend as my partner.”

“Oh?”

Kurosaki raised an eyelid in curiosity.

Even if this man did not actively search for a partner, there would definitely still be women who would request to be his partner automatically, no?

“You don’t have any suitable partners?”

“This is Shou’s order.”

Shiori was taken aback at Kurosaki actually thinking that he was lacking in partner options for such events. At the same time, Shiori was also surprised that Kurosaki thought that such an invitation was extended to him by Shiori himself.

Looking at Shiori’s unwilling expression, Kurosaki snorted coldly.

“You are absolutely not allowed to bring shame upon my country. I will not forgive you lightly should you behave poorly as you did during the Crown Prince’s wedding banquet.” Shiori issued a stern warning to Kurosaki.

He could not allow the country’s prestige to be sullied by any vulgar actions of this lowly man.

It was clear that this man has not forgiven Shiori for humiliating him in front of a large number of guests during that wedding banquet. Thus, it was very likely that he would use the most effective way to hurt Shiori.

If this man were to behave poorly at such an important banquet, hence implicating the respect towards and authority of the royalty……

Nobody could guarantee that this man would not cause trouble during the soiree.

Disheveled clothes, a haughty expression and uncouth actions…… Flirting with women openly, and even licentiously subduing Shiori.

“Who knows. I will just do whatever I want, and however I want,” grinned Kurosaki, as if not taking Shiori’s anxiety into consideration.

Why was it absolutely necessary for himself to attend the soiree together with such a man?

Shiori could not help but detest Shou’s illogical order.

This man’s attendance at the soiree could possibly ruin the atmosphere.

If that were to happen, the person who would be put in a tight spot would be Shou, and not Shiori.

Holding the invitation card loosely with one hand, Kurosaki wore a devil-may-care expression.

Seeing Kurosaki looking at him with eyes of amusement and having such a lackadaisical attitude, Shiori could not help feeling angry.

Shiori glared at Kurosaki sharply, his heart thumping wildly in frustration and uncertainty.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The soiree exuded a luxurious ambience.

Today is a day where both Shiori and his uncle - Keisuke, would have a partner in attendance with them, which is a very rare occurrence. In fact, it would be the very first time that Keisuke would bring his partner to an official function.

When Shou had informed Shiori that this would happen, Shiori could not hide his surprise.

The infamous playboy and hard-to-please Keisuke is someone who never had a stable partner. Needless to say, his handsome appearance was not something that most ladies would willingly miss out on. To make matters worse, Keisuke, who finds delight and joy in boisterous events, never minded being in the company of several women at a single time. However, for him to actually bring a partner to such a formal event was a separate matter entirely.

As he is the second son of the previous King, he was never forced to marry and was allowed to pursue love freely as he liked.

The ballroom was already filled with guests, making Shiori unable to spot Keisuke.

During this time, Shiori made his way to a spot that was close to the entrance, anxiously awaiting Kurosaki’s arrival.

Shiori had instructed his subordinates to bring Kurosaki to him immediately the moment they spot him. Should Kurosaki’s get-up be deemed as inappropriate, Shiori was prepared to deny him entry into the ballroom.

Even if he was merely a pawn, Shiori wanted to protect this place.

Kurosaki would definitely want to take his revenge against Shiori and humiliate him thoroughly.

Unlike Shou, Shiori was not trusting of Kurosaki at all.

The image of Kurosaki’s wild appearance surfaced on Shiori’s mind.

A loose outer jacket, an opened collar, and messy hair…… From the unfastened shirt, one could see his broad and well-muscled chest, and from the open cuffs, one could make out the shape of his well-built arms.

Nouveau riche.

A person of common birth.

A man with no proper manners whatsoever.

Just what underhanded means did this man employ that had allowed him to climb to such a high position? Could it be that he made use of a lady? Or did he use unscrupulous means to cheat others of their fortune?

In contrast, Shiori donned a formal wear of the finest quality. The elegance he exuded was enough to make everyone in attendance swoon.

Shiori naturally attracted loving gazes from the guests.

However, the person who was on the receiving end of such attention failed to notice any of this.

Shiori did not have the heart to pay attention to how the people around him felt about him.

He was only focused and filled with worry about that man, the man whom he had no choice but to invite.

(Has he not arrived? How dare he make me wait.)

Shiori narrowed his eyes slightly. His heart was beating rapidly due to the anxiety.

Suddenly, after a car came to a halt in front of the palace’s entrance, there was a disturbance and murmuring amongst the guests at that area.

Shiori had a bad feeling about it.

The man that had commanded the attention of everyone strode assuredly towards Shiori.

A tall, commanding stature and extremely well-mannered - at one glance, anyone could tell that he was no small fry.

He carried himself with a gracefulness and might that shook everyone’s hearts.

Flawless movements.

An attitude that seemed to imply an air of importance hung around him.

In addition to those, he exuded an air of earnestness and gentleness as he smiled warmly at the people whom he passed by as he made his way up towards the ballroom.

Simply by passing by, the ladies would blush hotly at him.

(Just who… is it…...?)

Shiori gazed at this person from afar.

Was there anyone who could command such undivided attention in the invitation list?

Shiori could not remember seeing the name of anyone who could do so on the list.

Yet, that man gradually made his way towards Shiori.

“Your Highness, it is such an honour to have been invited by you for tonight’s soiree,” smiled that man. A beautiful smile appeared on that man’s handsome face.

“Shiori-sama, Your Highness.” A deep and resonating voice rang through the silent ballroom.

Standing in front of Shiori was a flawless gentleman. Moreover, he was a gentleman who looked absolutely stunning……

His suit and bow tie were of fine taste and quality. The manner in which he bowed was also appropriate.

Even amongst the royalty of Ecuratean, nobody’s actions seemed as perfect as this man’s.

“......Eh?”

Shiori could only stare blankly, stumped.

He could not help but utter an exclamation of disbelief.

Shiori still did not know who was the man that was standing right in front of him.

No, even if he did know, his brain was unable to process it due to him being in shock.

That man wore a small smile and gazed down warmly at Shiori.

It was the very first time Shiori had seen such a gentle expression on this man.

So Kurosaki was actually able to make this sort of expression.

Astonished, Shiori was unable to look away from the man in front of him.

Shiori was still unable to believe his eyes.

The perfect gentleman that was standing right in front of him was actually Oki Kurosaki.

Although the appearance of that man told Shiori that this man was indeed Kurosaki, the feeling and expression that this man wore was extremely different from what Shiori was familiar with.

Having an air of gentleness and a cultured appearance, the impression that this man gave was so very different……

“Let us proceed to the ballroom.”

Kurosaki smiled elegantly, gently reminding Shiori to enter the soiree’s location and not to remain rooted to where he was standing.

At a complete loss for words, Shiori could only follow Kurosaki’s flawless guiding.

The Kurosaki that had just appeared in front of him was a perfect gentleman that no one could have qualms about.

His hair was set extremely neatly and his outfit was not a thread loose. With a gentle smile and genteel actions, he exuded an air of royalty.

(This person is actually Kurosaki……?)

“Of which country is this royalty from…...?”

“Who on earth is that man? I have never seen him before”

“Is that man Shiori-sama’s partner for tonight?”

“He seems very compatible and worthy of Shiori-sama…...”

Shiori could catch such conversations that were taking place amongst the restless crowd.

For someone to appear at such an event as Shiori’s partner, he or she would undoubtedly be subjected to some scrutiny. However, the very moment that Kurosaki had set foot in the ballroom, Shiori could feel that he was the center of everyone’s intense attention.

(Just who is he……?)

Shiori could not bear with the stares of curiosity and amazement towards Kurosaki from the guests.

Flustered, Shiori tried to deny the feelings of awe that he had towards Kurosaki.

Amongst the crowd, there were people who were rather unhappy about the attention that Kurosaki was getting.

“I have never seen him before. It must be due to the fact that he is merely a nobody.”

Various disapproving grunts of discontentment were mixed with nods and exclamations of approval amongst the guests.

“He is still pretending to be such a gentleman. Sooner or later, his poor facade will definitely be seen through.” Murmurs of jealousy and various malicious remarks started to add into the mix of voices.

A man sauntered towards Kurosaki.

“Excuse me, sir.” After smiling and bowing respectfully to Shiori, the gentleman turned his attention towards Kurosaki.

Shiori saw that the gentleman was sizing up Kurosaki with rather disrespectful eyes.

He appeared slightly older than Kurosaki and was well-dressed.

“Fancy a toast?”

The soiree was about to begin and the hall was abuzz with guests heartily chatting and taking their seats.

After taking a sip from his wine glass, that man spoke, “Just recently, I made a trip to The Loire in France. The scenery it offers are spectacular and the towering castle is truly a sight to behold.”  With a friendly attitude, that man begun to chat with Kurosaki.

Kurosaki nodded courteously, and with a smile, fluently replied, “I, too, often visit the region of Touraine to procure wines. Touraine boasts of historical castles, and if I am not mistaken, it has the most of such castles in the vast region of Loire.”

“Speaking of Touraine, it is an absolute necessity to bring up wines that use white grapes, and that would be…...”

Upon seeing this man seemingly unable to find the right words, Kurosaki replied, as if helping that man, “The Chenin Blanc white wines are very easy to palate and I personally love it very much. And let’s not forget the Alsace region where the beautiful Rhine River flows through.”

“Have you ever imported red wines from that region?”

Shiori was a little surprised at the question. He had always thought that this region could only produce rose and white wines.

“Unfortunately not. According to what I know, I understand that Alsace dedicates its vineyards mostly to the production of the finest grapes for white wines and rosé.”

Kurosaki did not criticise that man for his inadequate knowledge. Moreover, he answered in a manner that gave face to the other party.

“Regarding wines that have Cabernet Franc as its main component, which region of manufacture do you enjoy such wines the most?”  

Shiori raised his eyebrows. He felt that from the very beginning, that man was purposefully using alternative names for already difficult-to-understand types of grapes to question Kurosaki.

That man continued to ask Kurosaki questions in a friendly manner. At times, he would ask questions he did not have answers to, and at other times, he would base his answers on totally wrong information.

“Bourgueil’s climate is rather temperate and warm, and the grapes that are grown there are absolutely delicious. Although Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil can be found everywhere on the market, I would still import more of it during the christmas season,” spoke Kurosaki calmly.

Throughout the entire conversation, Kurosaki did not utter a single, extra unnecessary knowledge. He simply answered every question appropriately.

Looking at Kurosaki who had managed to answer every single one of his questions with such ease, that man narrowed his eyes slightly.

Suddenly, it dawned upon Shiori that he was actually testing Kurosaki.

The knowledge of grape wines was perhaps not necessary in other countries. However, Ecuratol is a country that prided itself in its wines and is indeed one of the top wine producing country in the world. If one was unable to answer questions pertaining to grape wines, or other wine-related questions for that matter, that person would be regarded as someone without a respectable upbringing, and their evaluation by others would drop drastically.

That man was clearly approaching Kurosaki with unkind intentions - He wanted to put Kurosaki in a tight spot and embarrass him in front of the large crowd of distinguished guests.

Although Shiori did not have any intention to shield Kurosaki, he could not tolerate that man’s undesirable attitude one bit.

“Kurosaki-san, let us proceed to that area.” In order to help Kurosaki escape from that man’s barrage of questions, Shiori decided to create an opportunity for Kurosaki to take his leave.

Up until now, Kurosaki had successfully answered each and every one of the questions. However, what would happen should he fail to answer any of that man’s yet-to-be-asked questions?

Yet, Kurosaki stood rooted, unmoving.

Having no other choice, Shiori could only stand at Kurosaki’s side, and watch the development quietly.

“Speaking of castles, I had been to Moselle recently. When I was there, I felt as if I was in heaven upon drinking their Riesling wines.”

“Are you referring to Zeltingen-Rachtig, Germany? My secretary once spoke about it - she mentioned that she did not want to visit that place due to the possibility of being terribly sunburnt.”

The various Riesling vineyards in Zeltingen are very famous.

However, the questions that he had asked so far were restricted to general knowledge regarding grape wines from France or Germany.

“Most women pay great attention to details and beautiful things. I would assume that your secretary pays careful attention to the scent of the wine that she is drinking, would she not? Have you given her red wine that has a scent of roses and made of red misket as a gift before?”

Shiori’s face darkened. That type of wine is a product of Bulgaria. As Bulgaria is one of the countries situated along the scenic Danube River, does that man intend to shift the topic to countries other than Germany and France?

Although the grape’s name does include the word ‘red’ in it, it is, in actual fact, a type of white grape that is used in making high-grade white wines.

“Having been grown in the Rose Valley region, and not forgetting that Bulgaria is one of the top exporters of roses, it would be a pity if I had not given any to my secretary. That type of wine has a rather captivating wheat-coloured tint,” replied Kurosaki lightheartedly.

He did not correct that man’s outright mistake of calling the Riesling wine a ‘red wine’, and instead, Kurosaki had opted to subtly correct his mistake, thus not embarrassing that man.

“I wonder what wine would be used in the preparation of the food in today’s menu. When I visited France recently, the combination of black truffle oil and wine made by France Baimeiluo International Holdings was excellent.”

“Burgundy is indeed a famed truffle producing area. Was the wine that accompanied the truffle oil Paul Jaboulet Aine Hermitage La Chapelle from before ‘95?”

No matter what questions were asked, Kurosaki was able to reply fluently.

Moreover, without batting an eye nor breaking a sweat.

Despite knowing that the other party was merely rudely probing and deliberately making things difficult for him, Kurosaki remained patient , and earnestly replied to every single question. To top it all off, Kurosaki did so with a rather awe-inspiring attitude.

Flawless replies, and extensive, yet deep knowledge of various wines.

Shiori could not help but to be surprised at the effortless manner in which Kurosaki had handled the sudden situation.

(He really is…...)

Amazing.

The guests around them could only remain speechless and slack-jawed at Kurosaki’s vast knowledge.

For most people, even if they had the same knowledge on wines as Kurosaki, they would most likely require a few seconds to compose their thoughts before replying to such abruptly-asked questions. However, Kurosaki was able to give composed replies without a second thought nor did he give a slightest hint of hesitation.

Upon seeing Kurosaki’s calm composure, the guests who were eyeing Kurosaki with great respect turned to the ill-mannered man who tried to put Kurosaki in a tight spot and gave him disapproving glares.

Not only that, those who were originally jealous of Kurosaki were greatly humbled.

That man even gave everyone the impression that his actions were rather childish and uncalled for.

Kurosaki, who had maintained a mature composure throughout the exchange, and that man who had harboured ill-intentions.

If the conversation were to continue, that man would most likely be too ashamed and have nowhere to show his face at the soiree.

That man who was now in a rather awkward position could only stalk off in anger frustratedly.

Kurosaki was not a single bit aggressive nor overbearing throughout the conversation, and always mindful to give that man some space to step down whenever that man made a mistake.

“That man is really flawless.”

Not submitting to taunts, Kurosaki’s manner of coolly handling that man impressed all of the other guests greatly.

If Kurosaki had retorted and used the same harsh attitude as that man during the exchange, would the ending still be the same?

The fact that he had not taken the bait and be able to sincerely reply to that uncouth man, was something that Kurosaki could be proud of.

That very moment, Kurosaki had gained something much more important and valuable than position, renown, and the judgements of other people towards him.

“Would you like something to drink?”

“Yes, please.”

After that man had left, Kurosaki turned to face Shiori.

Apart from the conceited people like that man who had openly challenged Kurosaki, most guests would not dare to go near nor approach Shiori, someone who is of royal blood.

Kurosaki was considerate in every way possible towards Shiori, taking the responsibility of being Shiori’s partner flawlessly.

Taking the wine glass that Kurosaki offered, Shiori asked, puzzled, “From where did you attain such vast knowledge of wines?”

“This level of knowledge should be expected of someone who buys and sells wine.”

His polite manner of speaking made Shiori feel uncomfortable.

“Shiori, Your Highness, let us head over to that area.”

Gently holding Shiori’s waist, Kurosaki calmly and steadily led Shiori away from the curious gazes of the guests.

He did not do anything that would embarrass Shiori.

The guests watched the two of them from afar. It was only when they were not within earshot of the guests that Kurosaki resumed his usual rough manner of speaking.

“Do you want to drink something else? Don’t push yourself too hard.” Worried about Shiori’s condition, Kurosaki brought Shiori swiftly away from the bustling crowd.

A flawless partner.

The differences in his attitude made him seem as if he were an entirely different person.

What bewildered Shiori the most, however, was the tenderness that Kurosaki showed to him.

He knew that this tenderness was merely on the surface --- although it was solely an act, such actions were enough for his heart to feel a dull ache.

If it was merely a pretense, he was able to be kind and gentle to Shiori.

Perhaps the way Kurosaki behaves when he was working was most likely similar to the manner in which he had handled that man with.

To other women, and to the person he treasures, he would surely be this gentle with them, no……?

“Are you tired? Would you like me to get someone to prepare a seat for you? Or would you prefer to return to your seat at the table?”

His head bent down, Shiori shook his head lightly.

No one had ever treated Shiori as someone special, nor had anyone treated him with such gentleness.

Regardless of how much effort he had put in for the country, he would only be alienated from the masses, and be used by others. In addition to that, he had to endure innumerable slander, and throngs of people criticising his attitude for being far too arrogant.

Even Shou hates him.

Everyone knew about the ice-cold relationship between the royal brothers, Shou and Shiori, and Shou seemed to value Kurosaki, who had hurt Shiori countless of times, greatly.

What meaning would there be for him to continue staying in such a place?

And what was the thing that he tried so desperately to protect to the point where he allowed Kurosaki to violate him without hesitation?

Doing such a thing was not simply him being reluctant to lose to Shou.

It was not due to him wanting to make up for the losses he made at work, nor was it to protect his ego.

For this country, for the citizens who live in this country, even if it were something insignificant, Shiori simply wanted to put in his best effort and do a little something for the people……

Shiori did not want to see his country harmed in any way because of him.

And yet, nobody understood his pure-hearted intentions.

No matter what he did, it had always seemed to backfire.

The impression that he gave others was that he was someone arrogant, someone with a huge ego, and someone who looked down on people who were of a lower status than him. Until today, he is unable to change such skewed perceptions. Everyone thought that he was a haughty man who would not bother to understand how others felt.

This hopeless situation made Shiori taste the bitterness of loneliness.

As Shiori and Kurosaki made their way away from the crowd of guests, the guests started conversations with their partners or with the people they had just met at the soiree.

Amidst the buzz of the guests, conversations about Shiori and Kurosaki were taking place.

“His Highness is absolutely stunning. He has even become more beautiful as of late - it’s really difficult for anyone to move their eyes away from him.”

“His fair skin, flowing hair, long delicate eyelashes, and lips that look very soft…… Not a single aspect of Shiori-sama is imperfect.”

“It’s truly a miracle for such a breathtakingly beautiful person to be of this world.”

“Everyone, up until today, would find various means to obtain an invitation card to the royal family’s dance party or soiree at all costs. All these efforts were made in order to enable themselves to catch a glimpse of Shiori-sama in his formal attire.”

“Not forgetting the vineyard owners, wine merchants and companies who bought grapes from the vineyards and manufactured their own line of champagnes who does so too!”

Due to everyone’s hopes of wanting Shiori to notice the wines that they produce, everyone worked harder.

This was the likely reason why this country is able to produce such fine grape wines.

However, such heartfelt words failed to reach the ears of Shiori who was gazing at the vast night sky, deep in thought. Kurosaki gently pulled Shiori closer to him.

The men that were nearby sighed disheartedly.

“Just who is that gentleman?”

Kurosaki smiled politely at the ladies who were glancing at him with approving looks.

Seeing his smile, the ladies that were more proactive and daring started to crowd around Kurosaki. Although they were wary of Shiori’s status, the fact that the person they wanted to approach was Kurosaki, they could care less about their dignity.

“Nice to meet you. I was telling my acquaintances that I have always wanted to get to know you better.”

“Are you from Japan?”

“Yes I am. My business oversees the import and export of grape wines. Just a few days ago, I purchased a vineyard and built a brewery in hopes of being able to produce a wine under my company’s name,” replied Kurosaki amicably, making the ladies even more excited.

Shiori had always thought that Kurosaki was ill-suited to appear at such formal occasions, however, his actions and etiquette were both extremely well-polished. Moreover, the way he treated the ladies was very gentle.

Kurosaki was clearly able to treat others so well, so warmly, and yet, he was only cold towards Shiori.

“Could it be that the vineyard you just purchased is that famed vineyard?”

As Kurosaki went into further details and the name of the vineyard, the ladies’ eyes lit up in interest and awe.

“That vineyard is very famous in the country that it is located in for producing grapes that are used in the finest of wines.”

Logically, to be able to purchase that very vineyard, one would require a rather large sum of money. That vineyard ever produced a bottle of wine that was worth $100,000, thus, the value of the vineyard would be hard to estimate.

Shiori’s chest felt as if it was being burned by flames.

What was this feeling? He had never felt such feelings toward Kurosaki before.

Kurosaki had always treated him cruelly.

Kurosaki was someone who was violent, unreasonable, and vulgar……

“It would be a pleasure if you ladies would pay a visit to the vineyard. I would also like to invite all of you to try the company’s wine when you are there.”

“You are willing to host us? I look forward to it!”

“Me too!”

That single sentence from Kurosaki made the ladies lean forward excitedly.

The crowd of ladies formed a impenetrable wall around Kurosaki, effectively blocking Shiori out.

The smile that Kurosaki gave so heartily to the ladies was a smile that Kurosaki had never given him before.

Seeing how happy Kurosaki looked as he chatted with the ladies made Shiori’s chest feel as if something was stuck inside it.

Frustration, hurt, and the pain that his entire body felt.

Various emotions that he had bottled up surged upwards, making Shiori unable to suppress them any longer.

“It is such a great sight and match for a fine gentleman such as you to attend today’s event,” spoke one of the ladies in a rather proud manner. Seeing that lady linking her hands around Kurosaki’s arms, as if they had an intimate relationship, something snapped in Shiori’s mind.

Blood rushed to his head, making Shiori completely unable to stop the words that he was about to blurt out without thinking.

“A fine gentleman? He is merely an upstart, someone who is absolutely ill-suited for tonight’s event!”

The very moment Shiori’s words spilled from his mouth, everyone around them immediately fell silent.

Shiori recovered from his state of rashness, but it was already too late to regret what he had just said and done.

Shiori was in a difficult position himself.

Was it really himself who spoke such brash words?

He bit down on his lip forcefully.

Why?

He was someone who was very used to suppressing his feelings, so why would his emotions explode in front of so many guests?

Following Shiori’s sudden outburst, Kurosaki’s hand reached towards his own fringe and ruffled his once neat hair. His other hand roughly pulled at the knot of his tie. Having loosened his own tie and messed up his own hair, Kurosaki spoke in an uncaring and callous manner, “You’re right, this appearance suits me much better.”

The corners of Kurosaki’s mouth were curled up in a mocking smile.

After throwing out such words, Kurosaki left the banquet hall without turning back once.

Shiori could only remain stunned, and stood rooted to the ground in astonishment.

Afterwards, Shiori did not show up at the main banquet hall for the soiree’s programme, and instead, immediately made his way towards the courtyard right outside of the banquet hall.

Why did he speak in such a rash manner?

The him at that moment behaved so differently from his usual self, as if he was an entirely different person.

Seeing the lady coiled so closely around Kurosaki’s arm, Shiori was completely unable to think logically anymore.

His chest felt so tight…...so painful.

Shiori leaned his body onto the balcony railing, allowing feelings of regret to torment himself.

The livelier the conversations at the banquet hall got, the lonelier Shiori felt.

Kurosaki had already left the banquet hall. Shiori, not having the face to meet the guests after what had just taken place, did not remain in the banquet hall either.

He recalled the perfect gentleman that Kurosaki had acted as.

Whether it was his manners, the way he carried out his duty as a partner, or the way he was considerate towards Shiori, nobody could point out anything lacking or unsatisfactory with Kurosaki actions.

Not only was he refined, he even exuded a noble aura.

Even when he was confronted by problematic people, he adopted a calm attitude to handle the matter amicably, and at the same time, was considerate enough to not embarrass the other party.

Everytime he remembered the scene, Shiori’s feelings of self-hatred would grow stronger and deeper, making him feel nauseous.

His head ached, and his footsteps, unsteady.

“Shiori.”

Hearing someone calling his name, Shiori turned his head around.

Kurosaki was standing directly behind him.

He did not use any honorifics to address Shiori, but instead, called Shiori’s name directly.

He would always do so, regardless of the situation --- during normal times, or during the times when he had Shiori moaning under his embrace.

Shiori was still not used to Kurosaki saying his name directly.

Whenever Kurosaki called out his name, Shiori could feel that, just as his body had become Kurosaki’s, even his heart had become Kurosaki’s captive unknowingly.

“Are you not attending the soiree? If you’re not attending it, allow me to escort you back to your room.”

Although he had humiliated Kurosaki in front of an audience, Kurosaki still went to find Shiori.

It appeared that Kurosaki intends to complete his duties as Shiori’s partner for tonight’s soiree.

“I had already followed your orders and expectations to the tee. Despite that, it was you who ruined all of my hard work with your very own hands.”

Kurosaki was back to his usual self.

His face that clearly screamed he could not take it anymore pierced cleanly through Shiori’s heart.

The reason why Kurosaki would attend the soiree was only because of Shiori’s order.

Kurosaki could choose to not show up and, in turn, deeply embarrass Shiori. However, because of Shiori’s orders, he properly donned a neat well-pressed suit, and wore his tie well.

Even his shoes were shined beautifully.

Even when that man had put him in a tight spot, Kurosaki held back and did not flare up.

All these efforts were just for Shiori.

“I forced myself to do so many things that I would never usually do just for you, and yet, you ruined everything. That’s why I will demand a worthy compensation of equal value from you.”

Kurosaki hugged Shiori from behind.

Just as what Kurosaki had said.

Kurosaki was completely not at fault this time. Shiori knew that the fiasco that had taken place was entirely his own fault.

Shiori was only shocked --- shocked at how Kurosaki behaved as if he was a completely different person, and shocked at the warmth that he had displayed to Shiori for the very first time.

It was so, so very different from the violent way he had held Shiori with every time.

Kurosaki was now touching and holding Shiori in a gentle manner, as if he was holding something extremely fragile and precious.

Shiori knew that he had no right to refuse nor reject Kurosaki’s advances, but when he was in Kurosaki’s arms, Shiori could feel that something was very wrong with his body.

The feeling that he was getting was completely different from usual.

Shiori had initially thought that it was due to his feelings of self-hatred being too intense that had made him feel out of sorts. However, his body was really burning up and he could not even stand properly.

Ordinarily, he would absolutely never behave so rashly.

His head seared with excruciating pain, his thoughts a little more than a pathetic broken mess.

“Can you let me off for today?” pleaded Shiori for the first time.

He really felt extremely uncomfortable.

If Kurosaki insists on embracing him today, he would surely collapse midway.

However, Shiori’s nonchalant expression failed to hint at any sign of the extreme discomfort that he was feeling, making Kurosaki not take Shiori’s desperate plea seriously.

“You’ve got to be kidding me.”

Kurosaki believed that it was merely Shiori declining, simply not wanting to be fucked by another man. Thus, he stubbornly and forcefully brought Shiori to Shiori’s own bedroom.

When they had arrived at the familiar bedroom and Kurosaki had Shiori in his arms, Shiori was already at his limit.

He pressed his trembling hand weakly against Kurosaki’s sturdy chest in a feeble attempt to push Kurosaki away.

“Kurosaki…… ”

His sentence only spoken halfway, Shiori felt all of his strength leaving his own legs.

He no longer had any strength to utter a single word.

Something desperately hugged Shiori’s falling body tightly.

“You’re burning up with a high fever!! Damn it……!!!”

What Shiori finally fell onto was not the cold bed, but onto someone’s warm, welcoming shoulders.

Half-conscious, Shiori could vaguely make out the faint sounds of someone muttering words of regret.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was already nighttime.

Something chilly touched his forehead lightly, waking Shiori up.

A soft light spilled across his room. He slowly opened his heavy eyes to confirm what was the cold thing that was resting on his forehead.

When he became fully conscious, he realised that a damp cloth and someone’s hand nested on his forehead.

“Are you awake?”

“Ah…...”

Opening his eyes lazily, the first thing he saw was a deeply worried Kurosaki who was looking down at Shiori .

“Kurosaki……?”

“Pushing yourself so hard to the point where you would actually collapse - how very like you,” reprimanded Kurosaki gently as his hand slid down from Shiori’s forehead to Shiori’s cheek softly.

As his large hand cupped Shiori’s face, his cool touch made Shiori feel comfortable. Seeing Shiori close his eyes in comfort, Kurosaki held his hand in that position for awhile.

His cool hand and the cloth that was laid on his forehead.

“It seems that your fever has gone down.”

Could it be that Kurosaki had stayed beside him the entire time, wordlessly taking care of him?

“To put on such a brave front unnecessarily!” Although Kurosaki was reprimanding him, his hand brushed against Shiori’s face ever so tenderly.

“You really don’t intend to rely on me, huh?” continued Kurosaki who sounded rather upset and vexed. But upon seeing Shiori’s timid expression, Kurosaki immediately returned to his normal self.

“What should I do with you…...” sighed Kurosaki loudly. Following that, he smiled warmly at an anxious Shiori, as if wanting to put Shiori at ease.

Although his face had an expression which seem to say ‘I can’t stand you’, the eyes that he used to gaze at Shiori were warm and calm.

Kurosaki’s pampering actions pierced Shiori’s heart.

Kurosaki’s large hand touched Shiori lightly.

Unlike past experiences, there was not a slightest intention of wanting to hurt Shiori with his touch.

Not only that, Shiori could even feel that this was not an act, but genuine warmth.

Kurosaki’s warmth was now given to Shiori, and Shiori alone.

(......!)

What was the feeling that welled up within me?

The more Shiori wanted to confirm what feelings they were, the more confused he got.

Why would Kurosaki display such kindness and touch me so gently only now?

He would much rather Kurosaki treat him as he always did.

If he displayed such gentleness only now, such behaviour would only make Shiori more perplexed.

Shiori said to Kurosaki who was stroking his cheek lovingly, “Are you not intending to to violate me tonight?”

Even as Kurosaki was using such light touches to caress his face, Shiori did not know what could happen next. Shiori was afraid that he would become someone not like himself.

He absolutely did not want to owe Kurosaki a favour. In order to fulfill such a childish and stubborn thought, Shiori suggested something that even he would have never thought of offering Kurosaki.

Upon hearing Shiori’s question, Kurosaki replied rather angrily, “Don’t say such foolish words! Just make sure that you get well quickly!”

Although his tone was tinged with slight anger, his gaze was overflowing with gentleness.

It was the first time that Shiori had seen such an expression on Kurosaki’s face. Moreover, this endearing expression was for Shiori alone.

It was also the first time he had heard such caring words.

But these affectionate actions only made Shiori’s heart ache dully.

Shiori did not want Kurosaki to see the warm thing that was slowly forming in the corner of his eyes.

“It seems that your fever has cooled down.”

The hand that was cupping Shiori’s face moved away slowly.

Perhaps it was due to his body being unwell that he felt so weak?

That action of Kurosaki made him feel so very lonely……

The hand that made SHiori flinch with just one touch in the past.

The hand that stretched out towards him solely for the purpose of harming him.

“If you would like a drink or if you’re feeling unwell again, just give me a call.” After saying such words, Kurosaki got up from the chair that he was on.

Upon thinking of the pair of hands that was leaving him, Shiori could not help but to pull weakly on Kurosaki’s cuff.

Shiori’s subconscious action of persuading Kurosaki to stay made Kurosaki very surprised.

Even Shiori himself was shocked.

“It is already very late. Where do you intend to go at this hour?”

The morning rays were still absent - it seemed that the sky was still dark.

A wave of unease enveloped Shiori.

“I’m going to the room next door. I have already obtained permission to stay over tonight. If I stay beside you, you won’t be able to sleep well, will you? Just sleep well until the sun rises.”

The room next door was a guest room that only had a sofa and a work desk. Without anywhere to lie down properly, it was simply not possible for anyone to get a good rest in that room.

“Where do you intend to sleep on in that room?”

“Isn’t there a sofa next door? I’m already very used to sleeping on a sofa. As long as I have a place to sleep in that shelters me from the wind and rain, that is good enough,” said Kurosaki unconcernedly.

To be satisfied with just a place that can shelter one from the wind and rain…… That kind of lifestyle……

“If that is the case, then sleep by my side,” said Shiori automatically.

Kurosaki creased his eyebrow, as if he was troubled by that request.

“Don’t push yourself.” Afterwards, he gave Shiori another warm smile.

“Don’t say that. I was just thinking that…… if you were to sleep on the sofa, your body would be sore tomorrow…...” explained Shiori hurriedly. Kurosaki sighed softly at Shiori who was still shyly holding onto his cuff, and climbed onto Shiori’s plush bed nimbly.

“Understood. I won’t do anything to you, so just bear with me for a bit.”

Getting onto the bed only after getting Shiori’s permission - how unlike what Kurosaki would usually do.

After he laid beside Shiori, he brought Shiori into his embrace.

“When someone feels unwell, he will naturally feel physically and emotionally weak,” remarked Kurosaki, as if trying to convince Shiori. “I know that the reason why you’re behaving differently from your usual self is due to the fever. So just forget about what you said and did today when you wake up tomorrow.”

Kurosaki’s hand brushed Shiori’s back softly, as if soothing him.

Shiori, who is a very prideful person, would actually go so far as to plead Kurosaki to stay by his side. When Shiori recovers, he would definitely be disgusted at himself for having done such things. Thus, Kurosaki, knowing Shiori, said such words on purpose - he wanted Shiori to forget such actions that would make Shiori feel frustrated at himself.

“Is it not comfortable?”

Shiori shook his head slightly.

In Kurosaki’s warm, strong arms, Shiori drifted off to sleep cozily.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

After that incident, Kurosaki would often visit Shiori for a period of time. During the visits, he would not do anything in particular, and instead, would look out for the condition of Shiori’s body.

Although Shiori knew that he had already recovered, whenever Kurosaki visited, Shiori could feel his body heat rise steadily.

His fever was already long gone, but the people around him thought otherwise.

Shiori was temporarily not allowed to attend any business matters. Whenever the bored Shiori wanted to take a walk outdoors, his servants would immediately stop him from doing so.

“Did I not say that I have already fully recovered? Do not worry, I am merely taking a quick stroll.”

“Your Highness!”

Once again, his servants wanted to prevent him from going out.

“I will not stray too far away from the main palace grounds.”

“I will accompany you.”

“Kurosaki!”

When did he appear? It seemed that Kurosaki had seen Shiori trying to persuade his subordinates.

After hearing Kurosaki’s offer, Shiori’s subordinates had no choice but to reluctantly allow Shiori to take a walk.

“There is really no necessity for you to accompany me on my walk.”

Although Shiori was stubbornly insisting that he was fine, Kurosaki however, did not allow Shiori to move around the palace on his own.

Having no way out, Shiori sighed and turned, starting to walk out of the main palace building.

If he were to keep complaining about this arrangement, he would most likely not be allowed to go outside again.

“Don’t venture too far.”

“I am not a patient with a serious ailment.”  

Although Kurosaki had agreed to accompany him, the limit of where he allowed Shiori to walk to was the vineyard that was located directly adjacent to the main palace. That vineyard had a cellar and brewery built nearby.

Kurosaki walked beside Shiori.

Shiori felt a sense of security, as if someone was protecting him.

Upon having such thoughts…… his body temperature started to rise again.

What on earth had happened to me? Haven’t I fully recovered from my fever?

It must be due to the fact that Kurosaki did not do anything to him and only hugged him gently to sleep that night that made Shiori feel a bit odd today.

Shiori turned to face the vineyard on purpose in a bid to hide his face that was flushed red. At that moment, a flock of small birds and various animals flitted across the lush valley in front of their eyes.

“The animals have already returned to this vineyard,” commented Kurosaki rather suddenly.

Did he notice……?

Shiori’s heart skipped a beat.

“Putting in one’s utmost effort to not use any kind of pesticide, insecticide or fertiliser, and even if used, are used in the smallest amount possible, in order to make wines that respect the natural state of grapes……? The vineyard that I own commits itself to such efforts too.”

Shiori. Astonished, raised his head to look at Kurosaki.

In recent years, due to many dealers placing high prices on wines and the grapes, many producers use chemical fertilisers in a bid to produce grapes at an unnaturally fast rate. However, such actions would inevitably lead to the deterioration of the soil’s natural quality, resulting in only unhealthy grapes bring cultivated in such vineyards. Every time Shiori saw such ailing grapevines, he would always feel distressed about such unscrupulous and irresponsible farming methods.

That was why he had been pouring countless hours and efforts into researching ways that can cultivate grapes well without harming the vines’ health and the environment that they are growing in.

Kurosaki had actually realised the method that Shiori had painstakingly implemented in the cultivation of the grapes. Moreover, he even mentioned that the method of farming he employs in his vineyard was the same as Shiori’s.

Due to the absence of such chemical impurities, the animals would be able to return to the land.

Shiori had also taken a route that was full of steep challenges.

Ensuring the soil remains fertile and rich while putting his heart into growing the grapes.

Even if it was something insignificant, he wanted to do something for others. He had always held such pure intentions close to his heart as he worked tirelessly on his royal duties until today, and yet, nobody seemed to have noticed.

Ever since he was young, the people around him would misread his every action to be something that he did with the intention of gaining his own private benefit, ascending the throne, and gaining ultimate political authority.

As time passed, Shiori unconsciously became unable to open his heart to anyone.

The prejudices that surrounded him endlessly disallowed Shiori to open his heart to anyone anymore.

Kurosaki continued, “Some manufacturers might view wines to be merely a commodity to earn big bucks with. But I think otherwise.”

“Eh……?”

Shiori had always believed that Kurosaki only cared about his own interests and benefits. He had believed that Kurosaki only wanted to become famous, and would never care about the health of the grapevines. He had believed that Kurosaki did not see any wrong in hurting others in order to get what he wants.

If a business is merely a means to satisfy one’s own selfish desires, then it is hard to say that it’s successes can be counted as true success.

Some people might think that drinking wine is merely something for the wealthy to enjoy - but such a practice was popularised by businessmen. Overtime, wines became a drink that only a few people had ready access to.

For a wine to be made, excruciating efforts would have to be put in the moment the grape seedling emerges from the soil. The grapevine must go through numerous stringent checks and countless research would have to be done to improve the quality of such vines. Afterwards, another set of large effort would be required when harvesters harvest each and every grape by hand.

“The wine was originally meant to be a simple drink,” smiled Kurosaki.

That was what Shiori felt too.

“Since long ago, the wine was simply a drink that was made after fruits were fermented. People in the past used to drink wine in order to wash away the day’s exhaustion, and was also used as part of the festivities during important dates.”

“I did not expect to hear such words from you.”

This man and himself was actually thinking of the same thing……?

Their birthright and upbringing were worlds apart.

This man, who was entirely different from Shiori could actually value the same things as Shiori.

“Initially, I had always thought that the wine was merely a tool used by the rich to drown themselves in pleasure, thus making me feel that the wine is something rather trifle, and that not one person who loves wine could possibly be a good person.

“That is…...”

As Shiori tried to retort, Kurosaki interrupts him.

“I know - to have such prejudice against wine despite not actually trying it before is absurd, and that I don’t actually have any right to say such egoistic words.”

It is something that can heal the hearts of people who were tired from a long day’s work.

It is something to adorn the wonderful days of celebration spent with your loved ones.

Sometimes, simply seeing the little air bubbles float upwards can make one experience feelings of excitement.

The crisp and clear clinking that is made when the wine glasses meet each other.

The precious moment when everyone could share the same happiness with everyone else.

“The wine bottle contains the brewer’s heartfelt intentions and the vineyard caretaker’s efforts and precious time. Fine wines with rich and mellow flavour can only be made with the winemaker’s sincere diligence.”

No matter the type of wine, wines are filled to the brim with the kind intentions of the winemaker.

At first glance, it might seem that knowledge on wines won’t be of much use. However, to be able to enjoy an exciting life, such knowledge might just be very important and useful. The knowledge that, apart from work, would not likely be used when interacting with people outside of work, can actually be thought of as something key to experience a colourful life.

If everything that one does is only done for work’s sake, that sort of thinking would trample any chance for one to truly enjoy life, said Kurosaki.

The both of them stepped into the brewery. Rows of wine barrels that were fermenting various wines were lined up neatly.

“A manual pressing process, and also, the most advanced type of stainless steel barrel is used in this cellar huh? Suh a brewing process that combines both traditional and modern wine-making techniques is your idea, am I right?”

The manner in which Kurosaki spoke implied that he knew without the slightest doubt that it was Shiori who had thought of such an ingenious method.  

Shiori was slightly taken aback.

Everyone thought that the things he invests in for the country were merely part of a conspiracy for his own personal gain. They, too, thought that Shiori was merely a pretty flower that is well-protected in a greenhouse - thus not competent enough to handle such tasks.

And yet, the man that had humiliated him before was able to recognise the effort that he had tirelessly put into his work.

“Not only that, you treasure the grapevines very much.”

Why would Kurosaki say such things? Kurosaki had never seen him at the vineyard.

Although Kurosaki does rely on the wine industry to make a living, Shiori had always assumed that he was merely specialised in the importing and exporting of wines, but he did not expect that……

“Even until today, I still feel that knowing which grapevine to trim and knowing the best time to extract the grape’s colours is something extremely hard to grasp.”

This man, as expected, was not someone who was shallow.

Not only is this man well-acquainted with the practices of importing wine, this man’s knowledge extended even to the areas of winemaking and the cultivation of grapes.

Shiori and Kurosaki walked around the cellar leisurely. Kurosaki’s vast knowledge on wines made Shiori feel somewhat humbled.

That assured manner of his when talking about wines that night was not something that was rehearsed for the soiree.

On top of knowing the current trends in the wine industry, Kurosaki was also proficient in chemistry, and even the knowledge for wine-making.

He is truly someone with an astounding capability.

Although Shiori’s first impression of Kurosaki could not be any worst than it actually was, Kurosaki, however, could possibly be someone extraordinary.

Furthermore, Kurosaki was someone who cared for the grape’s growth and health, and did not pursue the wine industry merely with materialistic concerns.

“Japan is rather humid, thus is unable to cultivate vines using the same methods that are employed in Europe. Over there, the grapevines are hung on shorter fences and racks - that scenery has its own distinctive flavour too.”

“Is that so? If there is an opportunity in the near future, I would like to take a look.”

This was perhaps the very first time that they were having such a tranquil conversation.

Having an endless array of topics that they had so much in common, Shiori was even hoping that they could continue chatting for awhile more.

It was probably due to the fact that Shiori had just recovered from such a high fever that Kurosaki was behaving so gently, unlike his normal self.

“It’s about time we head back,” said Kurosaki caringly. Realising that the time to talk with Kurosaki was about to end, Shiori felt…… a little lonely.

The outstanding man that seemed to be protecting him made Shiori’s heart flutter.

That night’s perfect mannerisms and regal manner.

--- As long as I have a place that shelters me from the wind and rain to sleep in, then that is good enough.

Shiori had the impression that Kurosaki was born into a family with that was not very well-off. That being the case, how did Kurosaki become the person he is today?

It was the first time he had an interest in Kurosaki.

“For what reason did you join the wine industry?”

Until today, Shiori had never inquired anything about Kurosaki. To be interested in the other party’s concerns and circumstances is a basic courtesy when interacting with others. If one does not bother to put in any effort to care about the other party, then the relationship between them would never deepen.

“The impression that wines give is that they are something only the rich can truly appreciate - is that why you think that it is weird for someone like me to be involved in the wine industry?”

“I was not trying to imply that.”

“No matter, it’s the truth anyway. I did not get into the wine industry because I liked it.”

(......!)

Although Shiori could accept Kurosaki’s words rationally, it was truly heart-wrenching for Shiori to hear someone reject the industry that he had put all his efforts in.

“Why are you suddenly interested in the reason that I stepped into this industry? I’m not sure if such things are worthy enough to be heard by someone who had grown up sheltered like a princess.”

“Just what are you trying to imply by saying ‘sheltered like a princess’!” Kurosaki’s mocking words made Shiori protest in displeasure. Kurosaki gave a wry smile, as if preparing to explain himself, and continued, “During middle school, my mum passed away due to illness. I don’t even have the slightest idea how my dad looks like.”

(......!)

It was a life and world that Shiori could never imagine.

Seeing an astounded expression that had crawled across Shiori’s face, Kurosaki gave a face that seemed to say [If I had known this would happen, I wouldn’t have told you.]

Even so, looking at Shiori who did not take his words back, Kurosaki casually said something along the lines of ‘Don’t regret your decision later’, and continued, “The place where I lived in was an extremely rural town - no one wanted to hire a middle schooler who did not even have a single parent. However, that dad of mine who ran away from home left a huge debt under my mum’s name. When she passed away, the debt collector obviously would not let me off so easily.”

“Eh……?”

Shiori looked up towards Kurosaki. Was there no relatives that he could rely on? What about the government? Kurosaki replied to Shiori’s earnest questions with a rather teasing smile, “Since young, I have always been of a rather muscular build, and looked like a high school student. Thus, the lender made me do heavy jobs that were low-paying in order to write off my debt bit by bit. That piece of dreaded loan sheet was just like a contract to sell my body to the loansharks.”

The content that Kurosaki spoke with a rather calm tone made Shiori flabbergasted beyond words. Kurosaki used a rather ambivalent tone to talk about a time when he was forced to work endlessly while other children that were around his age would normally be living comfortably while getting an allowance from their loving parents.

“Then school --- What about school……?”

“That was out of the question, of course. I was forced to work from day to night, sometimes even without meals - and not getting a single cent out of the work I did.”

Shiori’s eyes widened in disbelief, his body trembling slightly.

“Even if I worked very hard,I was unable to get even a single cent as all of my salary would be confiscated by that blasted debt collector. But with no one to rely on, and being only a middle schooler, there was no way I could fight back. The place that I eventually got sold off to was the wine cellar that was located near my house.”

Shiori’s heart shook. He now knew the initial connection that Kurosaki had with wines.

“You should know too, right? The amount of strength needed to move wine barrels and bottles around. If it was a good employer, the working conditions would be better. However, the place that I was forced to work at was a small-scale brewery. The winemaker had to grow his own grapes and brew his own wines. Anyway, that place looked like it was built upon various illegal practices and conditions.”

Kurosaki’s words were tinged with loathing upon recalling the scene from his younger days.

“Cutting, harvesting the grapes, shaking the bottles, cleaning the dirt - any task that needed a human hand to do would fall upon my shoulders. That company was simply too small to even purchase high-tech equipment to manufacture wines. Aside from me, there were other people who worked there as well. However, most of their bodies were unable to take such a harsh environment, and they resigned not long after. In the beginning, I did try to escape several times, but where can an unqualified middle schooler run to? Every time I got caught and brought back, I would be beaten up until I was barely alive. Since then, I had always wrecked my brains to think of what was the best course of action to take. At that time, I was desperate enough to do anything.”

Shiori’s face paled rapidly. He simply could not imagine a small, young and helpless boy being mistreated so violently and inhumanely.

Although Kurosaki’s tone was rather placid, Shiori would not dare imagine how miserable it must have been for Kurosaki.

Kurosaki must have had suffered various cruel mistreatments in such an unlawful world.  

His broad shoulders and muscular body were a testament of the pain that he had been through.

“A lowly labourer that could only do menial tasks and accept the orders of people who did not respect him. What could he possibly be do to move up the ranks?”

“Eh……?”

Shiori was unable to answer Kurosaki’s sudden question.

“He would…...” Not waiting for Shiori’s answer, Kurosaki continued, “Firstly, what I did was to learn the techniques of winemaking when I was in the cellar, and during any free time, brush up on my business management skills. I was very painful to study when the entire day was spent on heavy labour without eating much. But I was able to endure it. When humans are on the brink of death, there is nothing that they are unable to achieve.”

“Unknowingly, I started to be known as the company president's right hand man.”

Shiori held his breath.

From the lowest tier of being a manual labourer, Kurosaki was able to crawl up the ranks to become someone of great importance on his own strength. And yet, Kurosaki did not harp on nor exaggerate the great difficulties that he had been through. Instead, with a calm tone and a face that seemed to say that ‘All those were in the past’, he recounted his painful past to Shiori, as if not wanting Shiori to realise the bitter pain and misery that he had been through.

Shiori knew that he had completely misunderstood Kurosaki. Shiori had suspected that Kurosaki had relied on women or unscrupulous means to reach the high position that he is in today.

“Nonetheless, I was still in a position to be ordered around by people. After clearing all of my debts, I went to establish my own wine company. The president of that small wine company had wanted me to stay, but for obvious reasons, I declined his request. In the end, as he was very unhappy with me who set up an independent and rival business, he purposely opposed anything I did, and also made sure that I was unable to get a single customer. Even the few business contracts that I had painstakingly managed to get were all ruined by him. He had spread terrible rumours about me amongst my precious few business partners.”

“How could he do that…… That is too much!” Hearing Kurosaki’s words, moisture started to form around the corners of Shiori’s eyes. The transparent pearls of water rested lightly on his long eyelashes.

Shiori did not know how to react after listening to Kurosaki’s tragic story. If it were him instead, he would have definitely not been able to endure such a terrible life.

Shiori had always been pessimistic towards his own position. But after listening to Kurosaki’s story, he realised that he was actually being so naive.

How could this man be so strong? What can he do to become someone as awe-inspiring as him?

Shiori could not help but…… be attracted to this man’s unyielding spirit.

“In order to procure wines, I travelled to various countries. There were several times that people thought that I was wealthy and thus ended up meeting with dangerous situations such as muggings. If one wanted to describe such experiences, one could say that it was very tough. But I always believed that I would one day come to understand the meaning of the trials that were put before me.”

“Soon after, I understood the significance of having to go through such daunting challenges,” said Kurosaki as he gazed at Shiori with an unreadable expression.

Even as the going got tough, Kurosaki had continued to fight for what he wanted with all his might.

Including the status that he holds today and everything else in his life.

“Kurosaki…...”

Kurosaki lowered his head closer to Shiori, whose tears were trickling silently down his cheeks. He gave a warm smile to Shiori, a smile that was completely different from his usual sarcastic mocking smile.

That expression of Kurosaki made Shiori’s heart beat faster.

“You’re too kind-hearted, you idiot. Why would you believe what I had just said? Don't be fooled so easily by words that others speak on a whim.”

That is why he would be ridiculed by Kurosaki to be a sheltered princess.

Although he did not know why, Shiori instinctively knew that Kurosaki was not lying to him about his past.

After using his fingertips to gently wipe Shiori’s tears away, Kurosaki brought Shiori’s face closer to his and placed a soothing kiss on the side of Shiori’s eye.

“The you who does not know the evils and sufferings of this world is truly too dazzling.”

Shiori’s actions were merely carried out with the dignity and poise expected of a nobility in order to meet the expectations of the people around him. The clothes that he wears are all made with the finest craftsmanship and finest cloth.

“...... It’s not what you think it is,” refuted Shiori.

Compared to the suffering that Kurosaki had been through, his own pain was nothing. But ---

“Since long ago, I had always been compared to Shou. I actually do not have the slightest interest in ascending the throne, however, everyone around me thinks that I have my eyes on the crown.”

Shiori’s actions that implied he was eyeing the throne rather covetously, as a tiger would on another’s prey, was merely a pretense - an act of antagonism on his part towards the uncaring people.

The words that he had never spoken to others came out for the very first time.

Shiori was very surprised that Kurosaki was the person he would reveal heartfelt words that he had never said to anyone before.

--- Your brother has been born.

When Shiori heard the news that his younger brother had been born, he was very excited and in high spirits. Every time he saw his friends playing with their siblings, he would always be very envious of them.

The person who looked forward to the birth of Shou the most, was perhaps, none other than Shiori.

What sort of toys should I give my younger brother in order to make him happy? What games can I play with my brother? Where should I bring my brother to when we have a day out?

If I read picture books for him, would he like it?

And yet, the adults coldly told the young Shiori who was excitedly anticipating the time he would get to spend with his newborn baby brother --- Your brother is born by the King’s first wife. That is why you……

The child born by the first wife would always have the priority to the throne.

The adults around Shiori had told Shiori ‘That is why you aren’t needed anymore.’

The adults, as if to add salt to his wound, said that apart from the fact that Shiori was not needed anymore by anyone, his baby brother would grow up to view him as merely a hinderance to his inheritance, as an eyesore.

--- Why? Am I unnecessary? Why would I be a hinderance to my own younger brother?

The servants who served Shou were all wary of Shiori and thus did not allow Shiori to go anywhere near Shou at all times.

“It is only due to the fact that I have the sensitivity in taste to critique wines, and the extensive knowledge in wine-making that I am even qualified to exist in this country.”

Even when he faced various devious schemes from others, he continued to do everything he could to complete his tasks. He was still desperately trying his hardest to live. Although if his situation were to be compared to Kurosaki’s life-and-death situation, then perhaps the him, who had never once starved nor have a shortage of clothes to wear, seemed ever more naive.

Shou’s attitude towards him was also cold and distant.

It could be due to the fact that both their servants would tell them how they would be harmful to each other’s positions.

The fact is…… Shiori at that time wanted to get along well with his baby brother.

But the adults around them simply did not allow for that to happen.

“No matter how hard I work and how much effort I put in for the country, everyone will think that I am just obstructing Shou and will eventually  distance themselves from me. Perhaps it would be better for everyone if I just disappear from this world…...”

“You’re not allowed to speak such foolish words!”

Kurosaki pressed his lips against Shiori’s firmly in order to seal Shiori’s lips.

“But……! Everybody will eventually drift apart from me, no one will care or love me! Since that is the case, I might as well……!”

“Don’t belittle yourself!”

Kurosaki wanted to stop Shiori from saying anymore of such demeaning words.

His lips once again found Shiori’s open lips that wanted to speak.

“Nnn, nnngg……!”

The kiss was a deep one. Although Kurosaki had already brought his lips away from Shiori, Shiori was still unable to muster the strength to retort Kurosaki.

As if to console Shiori, Kurosaki continued, “Even the most charming of people would sometimes be misunderstood by others. This world often sees things differently from the bare facts - a bad person can be seen as a good samaritan and vice versa. It is the same for my case too - people who work together with me might think that I’m a good person, while my business rivals might think that I’m a bad person instead. Things are just that simple.”  

Kurosaki’s comforting words fell gently like droplets of rain onto Shiori’s chest.

“But…...” Shiori opened his mouth quietly, “Everyone approves of Shou and yet, in contrast, keeps a respectful distance from me. Even Shou is distant from me. Do such a person like me really have any worth in being alive?”

“What good does hurting yourself do?”

Kurosaki’s words sounded rather pointed, but when Shiori lifted his head to look at Kurosaki, he could not find a single trace of anger nor disapproval on Kurosaki’s face.

“You and the Prince are two entirely different entities. Are you going to let go of any chance that you might have at achieving your own happiness just because of others’ comparisons of the two of you and their heedless criticisms?”

“Eh……?”

He and Shou were two different people.

As long as they are able to pursue their own happiness, that is good enough, said Kurosaki.

“Given that both of your emotions may not always overlap, the Crown Prince is still able to find his own happiness, isn’t he? Does his happiness have anything to do with you? Conversely, your happiness has no relation to the Crown Prince either. Knowing that, will you not use your own strength to pursue your very own happiness?”

Shiori was utterly shocked by Kurosaki’s words.

“Do you want to give up so quickly and easily? Whenever you feel like surrender, whenever you feel like giving up on chasing your happiness, the only opponent that you must never admit defeat to is yourself, is that not right? You’d better take a good, long look at who is your true enemy.”

Kurosaki’s direct gaze pierced Shiori’s heart.

(---...!)

His enemy was not someone else, but rather, it was himself --- the him who kept telling himself that he was worthless and insignificant.

Kurosaki then told him that, no matter when, the only real opponent that Shiori had to defeat was the side of him that has little will to fight for his own happiness.

“Perhaps it may seem like the Crown Prince has everything he wants. However, happiness cannot simply be determined by the material things one has. I think that someone who has absolutely nothing, and yet is still able to feel that they are happy and contented, is someone who possesses the most beautiful and genuine happiness.”

Such strong words struck a chord in Shiori’s heart.

“I have always believed that, no matter the hardships I had to face, these hardships will hold their own meaning and value in the future. Since I had suffered more hardships than most people, I’m sure that I will eventually attain a greater happiness than most people. And that happiness is…...” spoke Kurosaki as he gazed downwards at Shiori.

Their eyes met.

Shiori could feel himself getting caught in Kurosaki’s sharp, unflinching gaze.

His cheeks flushed hotter, and his heart raced faster.

Both of them were unable to tear their eyes away from each other.

What on earth should he do?

The rising heat within him spread gradually throughout his body.

***End of Chapter 5***

I haven't proofread this chapter yet so pardon the mistakes for now :'D