The palace, though still in mourning, was slowly returning to its regular rhythm. The gardens were once again filled with their vibrant hues, but the air carried a sense of unresolved sorrow. Chen Ning, in his role as Chen Ming, continued his duties with a quiet dedication, though his heart was burdened by the weight of recent events.
Prince Cheng had been noticeably introspective lately, a change from his usual self-centered demeanor. Chen Ning found himself navigating this new side of Cheng with a mixture of curiosity and caution. Despite his own internal struggles, he remained focused on his role, supporting Cheng through this period of change.
As they walked through the palace gardens, Cheng seemed lost in thought, his usual bravado replaced by a more reflective mood. Chen Ning followed at a respectful distance, attentive to the prince's needs but careful not to overstep.
"Chen Ming," Cheng said suddenly, his voice softer than usual. "Do you ever wonder about the things we miss when we're so focused on ourselves?"
Chen Ning glanced at him, noting the genuine tone in Cheng's voice. "Sometimes, Your Highness. Life can be overwhelming, and it's easy to overlook what's around us."
Cheng nodded, a pensive expression on his face. "I've been thinking a lot about that lately. About how I've been... well, selfish."
Chen Ning offered a gentle smile. "It's natural to focus on one's own needs, especially when there are many demands placed upon you."
Cheng paused by a particularly beautiful flower bed, its blossoms a riot of color. "I suppose. But I'm beginning to see how much I've taken for granted. Your presence, for instance... I didn't realize how much I relied on it."
Chen Ning was taken aback by Cheng's openness. He had grown accustomed to the prince's self-centered ways and was unsure how to respond to this new level of vulnerability. "It's my duty to be here for you, Your Highness. I'm glad to offer support."
Cheng's gaze lingered on Chen Ning, his eyes filled with an emotion that Chen Ning couldn't quite decipher. "You've been more than just a guard. You've been... a steady presence in my life. I didn't expect that."
Chen Ning's heart fluttered slightly, though he struggled to understand why. He was familiar with Cheng's typical behavior but found himself unprepared for this unexpected depth. "I'm here to serve, Your Highness. It's what I'm trained for."
As they continued their walk, Cheng's quiet demeanor remained, though he often glanced at Chen Ning with a newfound appreciation. Chen Ning, in turn, found himself increasingly aware of the prince's attention. He couldn't shake the feeling that there was something more beneath Cheng's words, though he tried to focus on his duties.
The sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the garden. Cheng stopped at a small bench, motioning for Chen Ning to sit beside him. The gesture was informal, but Chen Ning complied, sitting a few paces away.
"You know, Chen Ming," Cheng said, breaking the silence, "I've never had someone quite like you in my life before. It's... different. I'm not used to feeling this way."
Chen Ning looked at Cheng, sensing a vulnerability that was rare for the prince. "Different how, Your Highness?"
Cheng hesitated, his gaze dropping to the ground. "I'm not sure. It's like... there's something more here. But I don't know what to make of it."
Chen Ning felt a pang of confusion. He had grown accustomed to Cheng's self-absorbed nature and wasn't prepared for this unexpected shift. "Sometimes, it's difficult to understand our own feelings."
Cheng nodded, his expression conflicted. "Yes, it is. And it's not always clear how to act on them."
As the evening light dimmed, the atmosphere between them grew heavier with unspoken emotions. Cheng's words left Chen Ning with a sense of unease, though he couldn't quite pinpoint the source of his discomfort. He was aware of Cheng's gaze and the weight of his words, but he remained focused on maintaining his composure.
"Thank you for being here, Chen Ming," Cheng said quietly. "I... appreciate it more than you know."
Chen Ning managed a polite smile, though his heart was still racing. "It's my pleasure, Your Highness."