Chapter 1 - My Precious King: Chapter 1 - The Unexpected Encounter

The midday sun beat down on Kai's face as he navigated the crowded marketplace. He was just a simple baker's son, tasked with delivering a basket of sweet buns to the royal palace – a task he usually dreaded. The guards always eyed him with suspicion, and the sheer opulence of the palace made him feel like a clumsy oaf.Kai sighed, adjusting the weight of the basket. He was so lost in his thoughts that he almost didn't see him.A figure, tall and regal, emerged from the palace gates. He was dressed in simple, yet elegant robes, his dark hair pulled back to reveal a face that could launch a thousand ships. Kai's breath hitched. It was Prince Ren, the second son of the King, known for his quiet demeanor and rumored disinterest in courtly affairs.Their eyes met.Ren's gaze, sharp and intelligent, lingered on Kai for a moment before a small, almost imperceptible smile touched his lips. "You must be the baker's son," he said, his voice a low, melodic rumble. "I've heard tales of your delicious treats."Kai, completely flustered, nearly dropped the basket. "Y-Your Highness," he stammered, bowing so low he thought he might faint. "I... I hope they are to your liking."Ren chuckled, a sound that sent shivers down Kai's spine. "I'm sure they will be. Tell me," he continued, stepping closer, "are you fond of baking?"Kai, emboldened by the prince's disarming manner, found himself relaxing. "I am, Your Highness. There's something... satisfying about creating something sweet that makes people happy."Ren's eyes seemed to soften. "I understand that sentiment perfectly. Perhaps," he said, pausing for a moment, "perhaps you could bake something special for me sometime?"Kai's heart leaped into his throat. "I... I would be honored, Your Highness.""Good," Ren said, his smile widening just a fraction. "I look forward to it." With a final nod, he turned and disappeared back into the palace, leaving Kai standing there, a dazed smile plastered on his face and a basket of buns suddenly feeling incredibly light.That day, Kai didn't just deliver buns to the palace. He delivered his heart. And he had a feeling, a hopeful, terrifying feeling, that it might just be in the hands of a prince.