Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Night Raven College has given all students a week off for the winter holidays. While for many, they were looking to some downtime, for Leona, it meant facing family—and, most importantly, Cheka. That little demon was bound to be waiting for him, excitement practically radiating off him. You had decided to join him with his visit to home (as well... you couldn't really go back to yours), much to his dismay. 

As expected, the moment you and Leona stepped into the palace, you're both hit with the sound of impending chaos.

“Unca Leona! Titi Y/N!”

Leona flicked his tail in annoyance as Cheka came running over, a huge grin plastered on his face.

With a deep sigh, Leona rubbed his forehead. “Tch. First thing out of your mouth, and it’s already wrong,” he muttered, glancing sideways at the kid.

The “Titi” nickname again. Why did Cheka think you two were married? It was frustrating but correcting him seemed like too much effort. Besides, Cheka loved you, which meant he’d be glued to your side for most of the visit—a small win, as it would keep the kid busy. Not that Leona would admit it but having you around made things a bit easier. He still had homework lurking in his bag, of course, which he planned to ignore. The palace felt like a luxury compared to the sweltering heat outside. Leona had dragged you home with him, insisting that it would keep Cheka occupied. “Why?” you had asked—and in his classic style, he replied, “the brat’ll bother me less if he’s busy with his precious Titi.” Then he crashed into bed.

Just like any other hyper kid—despite being a prince—Cheka adored his uncle and anyone close to him. That meant you! According to him, you and Unca Leona were destined to be together, just like his parents!

Meanwhile, Leona conveniently slipped away to chat with a servant about where you would sleep. Cheka squealed, reaching for your sleave. “Did you read my letters? Did Unca Leona read them?! Tell him to respond next time!” His eyes sparkled with excitement as he tugged at your clothes.

“Haha, I'll try… no promises” you leaned down, ruffling cheka’s hair.

Cheka let out another squeal, giggling like any other normal cub at the affection. It was cute, but Leona rolled his eyes. Of course you were playing along with this kid.

One thing the prince prided himself on was his keen perception. He was sharp, and he noticed your gentle nature, the soft expressions you gave to Cheka. It was endearing—annoying, but endearing, like the tiny brat clinging to you. He watched from a distance as Cheka attempted to give you a messy hug around your waist, clinging onto you like a koala. Leona couldn't hold back a smirk as he watched you with Cheka. He leaned against a nearby wall, crossing his arms and enjoying the sight of you being stuck with the overly affectionate cub. It was almost comical, but also strangely endearing.

You were a good sport. He mentally noted, anyone else would've cracked under Cheka's energy. But then again, not everybody is soft like you. As Leona continued to observe the two of you, he found his thoughts slipping. You would make a good mother…

The sudden thought caught Leona off guard, and he mentally cursed. Where the hell had that come from?! You? A good mother? Sure, you were kind and nurturing, the perfect qualities for taking care of Cheka... Leona quickly shook the thoughts from his head.

I'm being ridiculous. He scoffed to himself, pushing off the wall as he approached the two of you. He had to remind himself that you weren't some fairytale princess, destined to swoon over him, or to mother his future children. It was nothing more than a stupid, passing thought. As Leona approached, he couldn't help but notice the way Cheka was clinging to you. His little arms were wrapped tightly around your waist, his face buried against your stomach. It was as if he'd imprinted on you like a baby bird.

Leona sighed, shaking his head in fake annoyance, but he couldn't fight the small smile tugging at his lips. "Alright, you little leech. Let go of Titi for a minute, will ya? You're gonna suffocate 'em.”

"Nooo! I don't wanna!" Cheka whined, only clinging to you even tighter.

Leona snorted, rolling his eyes. He couldn't deny the kid was adorable, even if he was a pain in the ass. Seeing how Cheka was so attached to you, it was almost as if he really believed that you and Leona were married. "C'mon, cub, don't be difficult," he said, but there was no real annoyance in his tone. He reached out to gently tug on Cheka's little tail. "You gotta let Titi breathe.”

Cheka let out a dramatic gasp, clutching at his tail like it was mortally wounded. "Unca! That’s rude!" he squeaked, finally loosening his grip—but only just.

You took the chance to crouch down, level with him. “Hey,” you said softly—then in one smooth motion, you scooped him up and tossed him over your shoulder like a sack of grain.

Cheka shrieked with laughter, kicking his tiny legs wildly. “Titi! PUT M-ME DOWN—NO! I COMMAND YOU!”

Leona raised an eyebrow. Well… that was new.

He crossed his arms again and let out a low chuckle—one sharp-toothed smirk crawling across his face as he watched the little prince flail helplessly over your shoulder like some misbehaving cub at bath time.

"...Tch," Leona drawled, eyes glinting with amusement despite himself. "Guess Titi’s got spine after all.”

"You bet," you replied, effortlessly carrying Cheka like he weighed no more than a feather. 

His little hands grabbed at your clothes, but he was clearly having a blast, laughing and hollering to be put down. Leona let out another snort at the sight, eyeing the two of you with that same mix of amusement and something else. You handled Cheka surprisingly well. He thought, shifting his weight to lean back against the wall again. Better than most of the staff, that's for sure.

Cheka's laughter eventually tapered off as he resigned himself to his fate, dangling over your shoulder like a ragdoll. He tried to protest, but it was obvious he'd given up. Leona remained leaned against the wall, quietly observing. His eyes flickered back and forth between the two of you, taking in the interaction. There was something oddly satisfying about seeing Cheka be the one being bossed around. Normally, he was the spoiled prince that got everything he wanted. But you weren't bowing down to his every whim, and Leona found himself admiring that. He continued to watch you with Cheka, noticing how easily you handled the rowdy prince. Normally, Cheka would be clinging to Leona like a koala, throwing tantrums and demanding attention. But with you, he was surprisingly calmer. 

Leona found his thoughts wandering again, thinking about how well you would handle a child of his. Quickly, he mentally slapped himself. No. He thought irritably. Stop those stupid thoughts. Despite his internal scolding, Leona couldn't shake the strange feeling in his chest. He didn't know why he was suddenly entertaining these ridiculous thoughts, but he did know that it would lead to nothing good.

He grumbled to himself and shoved himself off the wall, finally approaching the two of you. "Alright, hand him over," he gruffly said, trying to mask the emotions swirling inside him.

Cheka's little face lit up, and he reached out for Leona with his tiny hands. "Unca, take meeee!”

You chuckled, effortlessly transferring a pouting Cheka into Leona's strong arms. The cub immediately wrapped his own little arms around Leona's neck, clinging to him like a baby koala. Leona caught him with practiced ease, rolling his eyes as he held Cheka on his hip. "Brat," he muttered, but it was more fond than annoyed.

As he held Cheka, Leona found himself stealing glances at you again, noticing how amused you were at the sight of him being clung to by his nephew. Cheka buried his face into the crook of Leona's neck, his small tail flicking happily. Leona grumbled under his breath, but couldn't deny the warmth he felt at the affection. He adjusted his grip on the squirmy cub, his expression softening slightly.

You couldn't help but smile at the sight. Leona, the usually lazy and stoic housewarden, was suddenly acting like a big softie around Cheka. It was a side of him you hadn't seen before, and you found it oddly endearing. Leona caught your smile out of the corner of his eye and quickly looked away, pretending to be suddenly very interested in the palace decor. 

"Tch," he muttered, shifting Cheka higher on his hip. "Don't get the wrong idea. I'm only doing this 'cause he'll scream otherwise."

But even as he said it, his tail gave a small, involuntary flick—one that betrayed him. 

Cheka giggled into his neck, whispering loud enough for both of you to hear: "Unca loves Titi~"

Leona's jaw clenched at the child's words, and his face flushed slightly. "Shut up," he grumbled, his grip on Cheka tightening just a fraction. He did not love you. He couldn't. It would only end in disappointment and heartache. But even as he argued with himself, his heart gave a small flutter in his chest. Leona shot a sidelong glance at you, trying to gauge your reaction to Cheka's comment.

Cheka continued to giggle, oblivious to the effect his words had on his uncle. You, however, found yourself fighting a smirk, unable to help but find the whole situation hilariously adorable.  Leona caught your expression and shot you a glare, a silent warning to keep your mouth shut. He was already struggling inside, trying to convince himself that his stupid, fleeting thoughts meant nothing. 

"Quit lookin' at me like that," he muttered.

You raised your hands in mock surrender, a playful smirk still tugging at your lips. "Like what? I didn't say anything~"

 Leona huffed, turning his head away to hide the faint warmth creeping across his cheeks. His tail flicked once—damn betraying thing—before he caught it and stilled it with effort. Cheka, still draped over his uncle like a furry scarf, mumbled sleepily into Leona’s shoulder. “Unca… Titi’s nice… keep them…”

 The cub’s words slurred as drowsiness took over.

Leona stared down at him, then flicked his eyes up to you—just for a second.

"...Yeah," he muttered under his breath. "They are.”

The moment slipped by like a breeze—soft, fleeting, almost imagined.  

 Leona quickly cleared his throat and adjusted Cheka in his arms, shifting the sleeping cub into a more comfortable hold. “He’s out,” he said flatly, as if the last few words had never left his mouth. You tilted your head slightly, catching the faint flush still dusting his ears—the only proof anything had been said at all.  

 He avoided your gaze with practiced ease and started walking down the hall toward the royal quarters. “C’mon,” he tossed over his shoulder, voice low again. “You’re gettin’ shown to your room before someone wakes up and demands bedtime stories.”

You chuckled softly at Leona's quick change of subject, easily keeping pace with him down the grand hallway. Seeing him holding Cheka so tenderly was a stark contrast to the Leona that others knew. He seemed almost… gentle. It was an interesting side of him you never thought you'd witness firsthand.

As you both walked, you couldn't help but notice that Leona kept stealing glances at you when he thought you weren't looking. Leona tried to keep his expression neutral—but it was harder than he thought. He was painfully aware of your presence beside him, of the way you seemed to catch every small action he made. Damn his tail and the way it gave away his every feeling, damn it to hell. He grumbled internally, struggling to keep his thoughts in order. Why was this so difficult? It was just another student. Nothing special. But even as he tried to convince himself, his arms tightened slightly around Cheka. That familiar fluttering feeling was back. Leona's internal struggle was obvious despite his efforts to hide it. His jaw was clenched, his brows drawn together, and his tail kept flicking back and forth in nervous irritation.

You couldn't help but find it all strangely adorable. Here was the lazy, aloof Leona, now struggling to keep his composure around you. 

"You seem tense," you commented innocently, barely keeping the smirk off your face. 

Leona shot you a glare. "I'm fine." He grunted. "Just... need to get the brat to bed.”

You raised an eyebrow but kept your mouth shut, amused by the clear irritation radiating off of Leona. 

The moment of silence was short-lived, however, when Cheka suddenly stirred in Leona's arms, making a soft, whining noise. His little hand gripped a bit harder at Leona's shirt. Leona let out a quiet huff, but adjusted his hold on the cub without hesitation. 

The action didn't go unnoticed by you. 

Softie. You thought, biting back a laugh.

Leona felt your gaze like a physical weight.

He didn’t need to look at you to know you were smirking again. That quiet, knowing amusement in your eyes—like you’d seen right through him.

  It pissed him off.

  Or… no. Not pissed him off. Something else. Something warmer, heavier, curling low in his chest and making his ears twitch under the weight of it.

 "Tch," he muttered, quickening his pace slightly down the hall. "Quit starin'. It’s rude."

 Cheka mumbled something incoherent into his shoulder—something that sounded suspiciously like "Titi loves Unca too…" before drifting back into sleep.

Leona gritted his teeth and stared straight ahead. "...I'm ignoring that," he said flatly—but this time, even he couldn’t miss how soft his voice had gone.

You fought hard not to outright laugh at that. Leona was trying so hard to seem aloof, detached, but it was all falling apart.  The way he'd gently adjusted Cheka to keep him comfortable, the quiet note of affection in his voice when he spoke to the little cub.... all those little things, all pointed to something that he didn't want to admit. As much as he wanted to pretend he was annoyed with the situation, it was obvious that Leona was much softer than he let on. 

And damn, it was adorable.

Leona finally reached an ornately carved wooden door at the end of the hall and pushed it open with his hip.  The room was spacious and lavishly decorated, with silk draping over the windows and a king-size bed pushed against the side wall. Leona carefully laid Cheka down on the plush comforter, tucking him in with uncharacteristic gentleness. The cub immediately rolled over, clutching at a nearby pillow in his sleep.

  Leona let out a sigh, running a hand through his hair as he finally straightened up and faced you.

The sight of Leona tucking Cheka into bed, his usually sharp features softened by the warm lamplight, was... surprisingly endearing. You couldn't help but smile at the sight—it was almost hard to reconcile the lazy, aloof Leona with this unexpectedly tender side of him. 

  "You're surprisingly good with kids," you commented quietly, keeping your voice soft so as not to wake the sleeping cub.

Leona let out a scoff, but this one was half-hearted at best. He avoided your gaze, crossing his arms over his chest as he leaned against the nearby wall. "Don't get the wrong idea," he grumbled, still stubbornly clinging to his usual apathetic demeanor. But even as he spoke, he snuck another glance at Cheka, his expression softening just a fraction as the cub slept peacefully.  "...He's a pain in the ass. But he's still family," he mumbled, shoving his hands deeper into his pockets.

You nodded slowly, still smiling faintly. "Family’s worth the trouble," you said simply—soft, but pointed.

 Leona exhaled sharply through his nose, a mix between a scoff and something almost like relief. He didn’t reply right away. Instead, he lingered by Cheka’s bed for a moment longer, watching the rise and fall of his nephew’s breathing.

When he finally pushed off the wall to leave the room with you, he kept his voice low.

  "...Yeah," he muttered. "Guess they are."

The silence that followed wasn't heavy—it was warm. Comfortable.

And for once... Leona didn't feel like napping to escape it.

As the two of you stepped out of Cheka's room, the quiet of the palace seemed to settle around you both like a blanket.

Despite Leona's usual aversion to silence, the quiet between you wasn't uncomfortable. If anything, it was surprisingly peaceful. He walked slowly by your side, casting occasional glances in your direction as if he had something he wanted to say—but kept holding his tongue.

  You noticed, of course. It was hard not to miss him stealing those little looks.

After a few more moments of the strangely comfortable silence, you decided to take pity on him. 

  "You've been staring," you pointed out, voice light and just a bit teasing.

  As you'd expected, Leona immediately flushed faintly, his pace stuttering for a moment before he turned away.

 "Haven't," he muttered gruffly, the tips of his ears tinting pink. "I haven't been staring.”

You chuckled softly, the sound warm in the quiet hallway. "You were totally staring."

Leona scoffed, shoving his hands deeper into his pockets as he quickened his pace slightly—like he could outrun your teasing.

 "I wasn't staring," he insisted, voice lower now. "Just... makin' sure you don’t get lost. Palace is big. Easy to wander into the wrong wing."

 It was a weak excuse, and you both knew it.

You tilted your head with a small smirk. "Sure, Housewarden." The title dripped with playful sarcasm.

 He growled under his breath—low and lazy, like a half-hearted threat—and finally glanced at you again through half-lidded eyes. "...Shut up." But there was no real bite to it.

And when you caught him looking again? His tail flicked once—just once—and stayed still after that. Like even he couldn’t argue anymore.

Leona led you down the dimly lit hallway, the soft flicker of torchlight casting long shadows across his sharp features. He kept his pace steady, hands still shoved in his pockets as if to hide any telltale gestures. But even now, he couldn’t stop stealing glances—like you were something he wasn't supposed to want but couldn’t look away from.

When you turned a corner toward your assigned guest chamber, he slowed beside your door.  

 "This is yours," he said simply, nodding toward it. "Don't wander off at night. ‘Palace has traps for intruders—and idiots who can't follow directions."

 You raised an eyebrow. "You’re saying I might trip one?"

 He shrugged one shoulder, smirking faintly. "...Maybe."

Then silence.

 A beat passed—long enough for you to notice how close he was standing now.

Finally, Leona muttered: "Get some sleep."

But neither of you moved just yet.

And somewhere deep down?

He didn't want to leave first.

Leona's inner struggle was painfully obvious even through his typical stoicism—the way he lingered by your door, shifting his weight slightly back and forth, avoiding your gaze… You could practically hear the gears turning in his head, like he was caught in a tug-of-war with himself.

  "Leona," you said softly, tilting your head slightly.

 He tensed at the sound of his name, eyes snapping back to yours. "...Huh?" he replied, the word just a bit rougher than usual.

 Leona mentally cursed himself for the sharp tone, but before he could open his mouth again, you stepped closer—

  Close enough that he could smell the subtle scent of whatever soap you used in the bath—some flowery, almost honeyed fragrance.

  Close enough that he could see the faint hint of amusement in your eyes.

 Close enough that he could feel the warmth radiating off your skin in the cool hall.

Close enough that his mind suddenly went absolutely blank.

"Goodnight.." you said looking directly at him, "see you tomorrow".

Leona could only nod stiffly; eyes still fixed on yours. His mind was still reeling from the close proximity, the subtle scent, the feeling of your warm skin only inches away...

He was used to people avoiding him, staying clear of his sharp-edged temper and lazy attitude. But here you were, smiling and saying goodnight like this was normal—like just standing near him didn't bother you. It was so strange.

 It was almost... nice.

He took a step back, clearing his throat quickly.

 "Yeah... yeah. Goodnight.”

The moment hung in the air for a long, quiet moment—like time had simply stopped around you both. Leona finally forced himself to look away, shoving his hands deeper in his pockets to try and stop himself from fidgeting. Your gaze was doing strange things to his heartbeat, his stomach flipping over in sudden and unfamiliar ways... But he couldn't let you see that. 

  He had an image to uphold. He was the housewarden. The lazy housewarden.

Not some easily flustered... idiot with a stupid crush.

Chapter Text

You wake up to the faint light filtering through the curtains. It’s quiet, almost too quiet. No Cheka snuggling beside you, no little prince’s breath warming your skin. Instead, you’re alone in the lavish bed, the cool silk sheets slipping slightly as you sit up. Cheka had sneaked into your room last night after Leona left. You had expected Cheka to wake you up this morning but…
‘He probably got caught and sent back to his own room.’ You thought, sitting up from the bed.

The palace is still waking up, a distant hum of activity echoing from somewhere down the hall. You rub your eyes, trying to shake off sleep, and glance around the room.

That’s when you notice him—Cheka.

He’s already rushing into your room like a bolt of lightning, bursting through the door without knocking. His face is lit with excitement, eyes wide and full of energy, as if he’s just been waiting all morning to get you out of bed. Before you can react, he’s already bounding toward you, squealing your name.

“Titi! Titi! Titi!” he shouts, practically bouncing on the spot.

You blink, caught off guard, and look at him. “Cheka? What are you doing here so early?”

The little prince doesn’t seem to hear you. He’s already climbing onto the bed, crawling over to you with that unstoppable enthusiasm that only a hyper prince can muster. “I woke up super early! And I knew you’d come! So I waited! Come on, Titi, let’s go outside! I wanna hide and seek! I’m really good at hiding—better than anyone!”

You raise an eyebrow. “You’re already full of energy… did you really sleep that much?”

“Of course I did! I slept like a prince. But I’m ready now! Let’s go!”

You glance at the door, where one of the palace servants is already eyeing the scene with a mixture of annoyance and resignation. She’s there to look after Cheka, and she’s clearly not thrilled about the little prince charging into your room like a hurricane.

“Prince Cheka,” she says sharply, stepping closer, “you should be resting. Your uncle said you need a proper rest—”

He doesn’t listen. Instead, he’s already tugging at your arm with those tiny, eager hands. “Come on, Titi! We’re gonna have so much fun! You promised! Remember? I’m the best at hide-and-seek! You can’t beat me!”

You sigh, did you really promise him? “Alright, alright. Just give me a minute to get dressed.”

Cheka, oblivious to your tone, hops up and down. “Hurry! I’ll be waiting outside!”

You finally push yourself out of bed, grabbing some clothes. It’s not like you’re going to be able to ignore him for long. Cheka’s energy is contagious, even if he’s a little too much first thing in the morning.

You walk over to the wardrobe, grabbing a simple shirt and pants, then start changing while he continues bouncing around the room. The servant mutters something under her breath and steps back, clearly used to this chaos. “Don’t take too long,” she says, giving you a pointed look.

You nod and finish dressing quickly. When you step out of the room, Cheka is already waiting by the door, bouncing on his heels like he’s ready to run a race.

“Let’s go!” he yells, pushing the door open with a small flourish.

You follow him out into the palace gardens, where the early morning sun is already starting to warm the air. The gardens are beautiful—flowers blooming in wild bursts of color, birds chirping softly in the trees. Cheka darts ahead, giggling, and you keep pace, more amused than anything else.

“Okay,” you say, catching up with him. “Where do you want to hide first?”

His eyes light up with mischief. “Hmm… I know! I’ll hide behind the big tree, and you try to find me, Titi!”

You chuckle. “Not so fast. Let’s count first. One… two… three…”

You start counting aloud, watching as Cheka quickly ducks behind a bush, trying to hide his giggles.

“Four… five…”

You turn around and start walking slowly, eyes scanning for him. Cheka is terrible at hiding—he’s more about the noise and chaos than actual stealth. You spot him trying to hide behind a fountain, his tiny face just peeking out from behind the stone.

“Got you!,” you say, stepping closer.

He squeals, bursting into laughter. “No fair! I was gonna win!”

You ruffle his hair. “You’re pretty bad at hiding, but I’ll give you points for trying.”

He grins proudly. “I’m the prince! I don’t lose!”

You shake your head, amused. “Alright, let’s keep going. You’re not done hiding yet.”

He nods eagerly and runs off again. You watch him dart between the flowering bushes, chasing butterflies, climbing over rocks—basically making a mess of the garden.

You lean against a tree for a moment, taking in the scene. Cheka’s energy is relentless, but it’s kind of refreshing. It’s a break from the usual palace politics, the constant need to be on guard around everyone. Here, he’s just a kid—hyper, loud, and happy just because he can be.

As you watch him, your mind drifts to Leona.

What do you think he’s doing right now? Probably still in bed, probably annoyed about being woken up early. Maybe he’s sulking in some corner, pretending to read a book or grumble at the servants. Honestly, you wouldn’t be surprised if he was just ignoring everyone and trying to get some more sleep.

You smile to yourself. It’s funny—how much of his usual aloofness is just a shield. You can almost imagine him, lying in bed, pretending he’s too busy to care or too lazy to bother.

Cheka suddenly runs over, a huge grin plastered on his face. “Titi! Come quick! I found a really good hiding spot!”

You walk over to him, amused. “Where?”

He points excitedly to a small hollow in the trunk of an old tree. “In here! You can’t see me!”

You look at the spot, then at him. “Alright. I’ll count again. One… two… three…”

You close your eyes and start counting. Cheka giggles behind you, clearly proud of himself.

“Four… five…”

You open your eyes and start walking toward the tree. Cheka is trying to hide his laughter, but his whole body is trembling with excitement.

As you approach the tree, you spot him trying to squeeze into the hollow, barely fitting.

“I see you!” you say with a smirk.

He squeals again, bursting into full laughter. “Haha! I knew you’d find me! I’m the best!”

You shake your head and ruffle his hair again. “You’re terrible at hiding, but I’ll give you credit for being stubborn.”

He grins even wider. “That’s right!”

You watch him run around for a bit longer, then lean back against the tree, crossing your arms.

It’s a good moment. Simple, straightforward. No complicated politics, no high-stakes decisions—just you and Cheka, having fun in the garden. You think about Leona again.
He’d probably be annoyed if he saw you playing like this. Maybe he’d call it childish, or say you’re wasting time. But honestly, you don’t care.

Even if he’d never admit it, you bet Leona would secretly enjoy watching Cheka run around like this.

Maybe he’d even join in, if you dared him.

But honestly, you’re pretty sure he’d just grumble and refuse, probably pretending he’s too busy with “more important” things. Still, you can’t help but imagine him trying to look stern, arms crossed, watching from a distance while secretly smiling. He’s got a tough exterior, but behind that, he’s probably softer than he lets on.

You’re pretty sure of it.

Cheka runs up to you again, eyes shining. “Titi! I found the perfect hiding spot! Come on, I’ll show you!”

You follow him, amused at how relentless he is.

He leads you behind a bush, pointing excitedly at a small hollow in the roots of an old tree. “This is it! You can’t see me here!”

You look at him, a little surprised by his confidence. “Alright. I’ll start counting. One… two… three… four… five… six-”

You start counting, and Cheka dashes off to hide. You turn around walking towards the tree, you glance into the hollow.

There’s Cheka, trying to squeeze himself into the small space, his cheeks puffed out with effort.

“Found you again” you say plainly.

He squeals with laughter, trying to wiggle even deeper into the hollow. “Haha! I’m so good at hiding!”

You lean down, grinning. “You’re not supposed to say where you’re hiding you know?”
You ruffle his hair again, feeling a strange warmth, a kind of satisfaction you don’t get often. The morning drifts on with more running, hiding, and laughing. Cheka’s energy is infectious, and you’re glad for the distraction. But your mind keeps wandering back to Leona. That man really doesn't leave your mind, does he?

What is he doing right now?

You imagine him, still in bed, probably pretending not to hear the noise.

Or maybe he’s already out of bed, sitting somewhere, watching you from a distance with that sharp, unreadable expression. You’re just about to call him out in your mind when Cheka suddenly stops.He’s looking at you with that mischievous grin again.

“Hey, Titi,” he says softly, voice full of mischief. “Do you think Unca Leona is boring?”

You frown, feigning surprise. “Boring? No. I think he’s just… different.”

Cheka nods seriously. “Yeah. He’s like a big lion. Grumpy, but he's secretly really nice! Maybe he’d even like to play hide-and-seek if he tried.”

You laugh. “Maybe. But I doubt he’d admit it.”

He grins wider. “If I ask him, I bet he’d do it. He’s got to be good at hiding, right?”

“Maybe,” you say again, smiling at his innocence.

You and Cheka keep wandering through the garden, taking turns hiding and seeking, until the sun climbs higher and the air warms.

It’s a simple morning, but it’s perfect in its own way.

You’re reminded that sometimes, the best moments aren’t about winning or losing—they’re about just being here. Laughing, running, and sharing those small, fleeting moments with someone who’s all energy and no worries.

And honestly, you don’t want to leave that feeling behind.

Because today, you realize how easy it is to forget the palace’s grandeur when you’re just a person having fun. And somehow, that makes everything feel a little more real. A little more worth it. You glance back toward the palace, watching Cheka chase after a butterfly, his giggles ringing through the air.

Leona would probably be annoyed that you’re wasting time like this.

But secretly, you think he’d be glad to see Cheka this happy.

And maybe—just maybe—you’d catch him watching from a distance, a faint flicker of a smile on his face, even if he’d never admit it out loud. .

The sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting shimmering patches on the cobblestone paths and vibrant flowerbeds that tangled in wild, colorful chaos. Cheka’s small figure darted ahead, a blur of energy as he chased a butterfly with wings that shimmered like stained glass in the morning light. His tiny hands reached out, but the butterfly was just out of reach, weaving effortlessly between the roses and marigolds.

You leaned against a sturdy old tree, watching him with a quiet smile. His cheeks were flushed from running, and his hair was a tousled mess, strands sticking to his forehead with a mix of sweat and dirt from tumbling over rocks and skipping through the grass. His eyes sparkled with mischief and excitement, bright as the sky above.

He suddenly stopped, chest heaving, and looked up at the drifting clouds. His small fingers pointed upwards, voice soft and full of wonder. “Titi,” he said, eyes wide, “do you think the clouds are like giant cotton candies floating in the sky?”

You chuckled softly, watching him tilt his head, imagining the fluffy shapes drifting lazily. The breeze stirred again, carrying the scent of jasmine and freshly cut grass, petals fluttered down like tiny, fragrant confetti. Cheka’s gaze followed a flock of birds soaring high above, their wings beating rhythmically against the sky. “They’re flying together,” he said, voice tinged with awe, “like friends. Do you think they’re friends?”

You nodded, watching the birds, their silhouettes sharp against the blue. The way they dipped and swirled in perfect harmony seemed to mirror the simple trust of childhood. He took a deep breath, eyes closed for a moment, then opened them with renewed energy. “I wish I could eat a cloud,” he declared, “or fly with the birds! Maybe I’d see the whole world from up high.”

The thought made your heart soften. You reached out, tousling his hair gently, feeling the softness of it, the warmth of his small body pressed against yours. His giggles bubbled up again, bright and carefree.

He dashed off again, his tiny feet pounding the soft earth, scattering petals and leaves in his wake. You watched him weave between the bushes, chasing after another butterfly, then leapt onto a low stone wall, arms outstretched like wings. Looking out over the garden, a gentle breeze stirred the flowers, making them sway in a rhythmic dance. Bees hummed busily, and a butterfly or two settled on a blossom, their delicate wings flickering in the sunlight. Your gaze drifted past the lively chaos to the distant silhouette of the palace, tall spires reaching into the sky. You wondered what Leona was doing—probably still in bed, perhaps pretending to read or ignoring the noise, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of his lips if he was watching from afar.

You closed your eyes briefly, savoring the moment. This was a rare, simple happiness—just you and Cheka, lost in the endless wonder of a morning in the garden. No worries, no crowns, only fleeting joy.

Sometimes, the quiet moments are the ones that matter the most.

And right now, you’re happy to be in the middle of one.

Chapter Text

Lying in the grass with Cheka, the morning stretches lazily before you. The warm sunlight filters through the canopy of leaves above, casting playful shadows that dance across your skin. Cheka is sprawled beside you, cheeks flushed from the energy of the morning’s adventures, a flower clutched tightly in his tiny hand. His bright eyes are fixed on the sky, chasing fleeting clouds that drift by like floating marshmallows or fluffy cotton candies. His tiny fingers point excitedly at each one, voice bubbling with innocence and wonder.

“See, Titi? That one’s like a giant marshmallow cloud! We could eat the sky,” he proclaims, voice full of unfiltered joy.

You smile softly, your heart warm at his enthusiasm. “Maybe one day, Cheka. But for now, let’s just enjoy the view.”

Your fingers absentmindedly brush through his soft hair, feeling the gentle tremors of his giggles as he continues to point at different shapes in the sky. It’s rare—so rare—to have moments like this. No Fixing others problems, no school duties, no masks of aloofness or responsibility. Just you and Cheka, immersed in the simple beauty of a peaceful morning.

The garden around you is alive with gentle sounds: the buzz of bees collecting nectar, the distant chirping of birds, the rustle of leaves stirred by a soft breeze. Somewhere nearby, a flock of birds fly pastt. Cheka’s gaze follows it with fascination, eyes wide and sparkling.

Cheka giggles, then suddenly sits up, eyes wide with curiosity. “Titi! Do you think the birds are friends? They fly together, right? Maybe they’re all friends!”

You nod, watching the flock of birds soaring high above. “Yeah, they seem like friends. They fly in groups, just like friends do. They trust each other to look out for danger and find food.”

Cheka’s expression turns serious for a moment, as if pondering a great mystery. “I wish I could fly with the birds. Then I could see the whole world from up high!”

Your heart tugs softly at his innocent dream. You reach out again, tousling his hair affectionately. “Maybe one day, Cheka. Maybe one day you’ll fly as high as the clouds.”

He grins brightly, then zips off into the garden, small feet pounding softly on the grass. You watch him weave between the flowers, chasing after butterflies, climbing over rocks, and darting between bushes with reckless abandon. His energy is relentless, infectious. It’s a reminder of how carefree childhood can be—how fleeting these moments are.

As Cheka runs ahead, you lean back against a sturdy old tree, arms crossed behind your head. You take a deep breath, savoring the scent of jasmine and freshly cut grass. The tranquility of this morning feels like a rare gift—a quiet pause in the chaos of palace life.

Your thoughts drift to Leona.

You imagine him wandering the halls of the palace—silent, graceful, lost in thought. The image of him strolling through the corridors, his sharp silhouette framed by the tall windows, makes your heart flutter unexpectedly. You can see him pause briefly by a window, gaze out at the garden with that distant, contemplative expression. His brow might furrow slightly, as if wrestling with a problem only he understands.

You wonder what he’s thinking right now. Does he miss you? Does he regret wandering off, or is he simply lost in his own thoughts, muscles tense and mind racing? The palace is quiet now, the only sounds being the faint hum of activity from the distant corridors, the rustling leaves, and Cheka’s excited chatter echoing in your ears.

You cast a glance toward the palace windows, half-expecting to see him still walking, lost in thought, eyes flickering with that familiar flicker of inner conflict. The hallways are long and winding, decorated with opulent chandeliers and gilded tapestries, but today they seem almost empty—like Leona’s mind, pondering something deeper.

Then, unexpectedly, your gaze catches him.

Leona is standing in the large window of the hall, framed by the sunlight, watching down toward the garden. His sharp eyes are fixed on the scene below, but you notice the subtle change in his expression—an almost imperceptible softening, a flicker of thoughtfulness. His stance is relaxed but attentive, shoulders squared, hands loosely resting behind his back.

For a moment, he seems lost in thought, as if he’s grappling with some internal debate. Maybe he’s wondering whether to come over, whether he should interrupt your peaceful morning. His usual aloofness is tinged with something else—something softer, more vulnerable.

Leona’s gaze lingers on you and Cheka, lying in the grass, carefree and full of life. The image makes his chest tighten unexpectedly. Despite his usual tendency to keep feelings locked away, there’s an undeniable pull to approach, to join you and the prince in this moment of innocence.

But then, he hesitates. His mind races with questions—should he disturb this peaceful scene? Would it be better to let you enjoy your morning, or would he regret not stepping closer? His footsteps are slow and deliberate as he turns away from the window, walking down the hall with quiet purpose.

The hall’s grand architecture—the polished marble floors, the ornate chandeliers, the gilded frames—seems to echo his internal struggle. He moves with purpose, yet with a certain heaviness, as if the weight of his thoughts is dragging him down.

Meanwhile, back in the garden, you and Cheka are still lost in your own little world.

The boy is animated, talking about a dragon he read about in a storybook—whether dragons liked strawberries or pancakes, and if they could breathe fire and still eat sweets afterward. You listen with amusement, playing along, teasing him about what kind of dragon he’d be. He insists he’d be a “super-duper dragon,” with shiny scales and a tail that could sweep away armies.

Time slips away as you both indulge in silly stories, laughter bubbling up freely. Cheka’s small voice gets higher with excitement as he describes a brave hero riding a giant, friendly dragon that loved to eat ice cream. You smile, feeling a strange sense of peace—like the world outside the palace’s gilded walls has temporarily paused, leaving just this moment of carefree joy.

But then, a faint shift in the sunlight catches your eye. You glance at the sky and realize the sun has moved—significantly. The shadows in the garden have lengthened, stretching across the ground like long, lazy fingers. You squint at the position of the sun—around 1:30 pm, maybe a little later.

“Oh,” you mutter softly, eyes widening. “Cheka, look at that. The sun’s moved a lot. It’s probably past noon.”

Cheka’s eyes widen too, and he sits up abruptly, suddenly aware of the passing time. “Oh no! We’ve been out here too long! I bet Uncle Leona’s going to be mad if we’re late!”

You nod, feeling a tiny pang of guilt. You’d lost yourself in the moment, forgetting about the palace clock or Leona’s strict rules. You stand up, brushing dirt off your clothes, and look around the garden. The lush flowers seem to glow brighter in the afternoon light, the shadows growing longer and darker.

“Yeah,” you agree softly. “We should head back soon. Leona’s probably worried.”

Cheka jumps up, bouncing on his heels. “Let’s go! I don’t want him to get mad!”

You both start walking back toward the palace, your steps quickening. The garden’s beauty remains in your mind, but now there’s an underlying sense of urgency. You can already imagine Leona’s expression—probably one of annoyance, maybe a little concern, but secretly relieved you’re safe.

As he walks through the palace halls, Leona’s thoughts continue to swirl.

He’s pondering about you—the way you handle Cheka so effortlessly, how your laughter brightens even his darkest moments, and how, despite his usual reluctance, he finds himself wanting to be near you more often. He’s never been good at analyzing feelings, but lately, the internal conflict has become undeniable.

He’s walking down a corridor lined with portraits of previous housewardens, their stern gazes staring down at him. Yet, his mind isn’t on their proud faces. It’s on the image of you and Cheka in the garden—the way you looked so relaxed, so free. The way Cheka’s laughter echoed in his ears even when he was miles away from the scene.

His thoughts are interrupted when he rounds a corner and spots you—lying in the grass with Cheka, both of you looking up at the sky, engaged in a silly, animated conversation. His breath catches slightly. For a moment, he considers approaching—should he? Would you mind? Or would it be better to leave you be, to enjoy this moment without interference?

Leona’s gaze lingers on you both, and he feels a strange tug in his chest—warm, almost like an ache. He hesitates, then slowly starts walking in your direction. Every step feels heavy, weighed down by unspoken feelings and questions.

The hall’s grandeur seems to fade away as he approaches the window overlooking the garden. He pauses, watching you and Cheka from a distance. The way the sunlight catches your hair, makes your eyes sparkle in the shade. Cheka is animated, talking about dragons again, and you laugh—bright and genuine. Part of him desperately wants to join, to sit beside you, to share in this simple happiness. But another part—the part that’s always cautious, always guarded—tells him to hold back.

He finally turns away, footsteps quiet as he walks down the hall, inwardly debating. The moment passes, but the feeling lingers—an unspoken desire to step closer, to reach out, to be part of this peaceful scene.

Back in the garden, you and Cheka are now walking back toward the palace.

The cub is still bubbling with excitement, chatting animatedly about what adventures you’ll have next, what stories you’ll tell, and whether you’d find a treasure buried beneath the old oak tree. You listen with amusement, your heart lighter than it’s been in days.

The sun continues its slow trek across the sky, shadows lengthening and deepening. The garden’s colors intensify in the golden afternoon light, creating a picture-perfect moment of serenity.

“You know,” Cheka says softly, “Unca Leona is probably watching us right now. He’s probably mad we’re taking so long.”

You smile, ruffling his hair again. “Maybe. Or maybe he’s just worried. Either way, we’re safe. That’s what matters.”

Somewhere in the back of your mind, a faint thought lingers. Leona. Watching silently, perhaps? Wondering what you’re doing? Worried you’ve been gone too long? You glance toward the palace again, imagining him wandering the halls, lost in thought, his usual stoic facade hiding a flicker of something more tender.

And somewhere in the grand, silent halls of the palace, Leona’s thoughts swirl as he walks away from the window.

He’s not sure what’s driving him—this strange urge to approach, this inexplicable warmth filling his chest. He’s a man who’s built walls around himself, who’s used to keeping feelings locked tight. Yet, here he is, contemplating whether to break his own rules and go to you. Tch.

He pauses near a corridor, eyes fixed on a distant point. The palace feels enormous, yet he senses an invisible thread pulling him toward that garden, toward you and Cheka, getting up to leave for the day.

He clenches his fists, then slowly turns away, the internal battle raging within him. The hall’s grandeur seems almost irrelevant now. All that matters is this quiet pull—this urge to step closer, to reach out, or perhaps just to watch from afar.

He finally decides it’s better to wait. To see if the moment will come again, if he’ll gather the courage in time. For now, he walks on, leaving the garden behind.

Your pace quickens, knowing the time has slipped away more than you’d expected. The shadows have grown longer, and the sunlight has shifted into a softer, more golden hue. Cheka is still talking animatedly about what adventures you’ll have next, but you’re already thinking about Leona—about how he’s watching, maybe worried, maybe just lost in his own thoughts.

Leona is nowhere to be seen as you make your way back to your chambers. You wonder if he’ll come to find you later, or if he’ll keep his distance, lost in his own internal battle.

As you step through the grand palace doors, a faint sense of warmth still lingers in your chest. The garden’s carefree energy has left a lingering smile on your face. Cheka, still bouncing with excitement, drags you toward the corridor with relentless energy, eager to share more of his wild ideas and silly stories.

Leona is nowhere to be seen at first, but you can feel his presence lingering somewhere nearby, like a shadow just beyond your sight. Perhaps he’s still standing at the window, still debating whether to approach or stay rooted in his own thoughts. You know him well enough to sense that internal tug-of-war, that hesitation that’s unlike his usual confident demeanor.

As you walk down the corridor, your footsteps echo softly against the polished marble floor. The grand tapestries lining the walls seem to whisper stories of the palace’s history, but today they feel distant—almost irrelevant. Your focus is on the faint pulse of anticipation that’s been building inside you since you left the garden.

Cheka, oblivious to your thoughts, is chattering animatedly about a new game he wants to try—something involving hiding behind the throne or rolling down the marble stairs. You listen with half an ear, amusement flickering through you. His boundless energy is contagious, and for a moment, you forget about everything else—about the palace, about Leona, about the looming responsibilities.

But even in this peaceful moment, your mind keeps drifting back to him—Leona. You wonder if he’s still watching, still debating whether to come closer. Are his thoughts as tangled as yours? Does he even realize how much you’ve been thinking about him all morning?

You shake your head slightly, dismissing the wandering thoughts. You’re here now, in this moment, and you want to enjoy it. You turn a corner and find yourself in a quiet hallway lined with flickering torches, their flames casting dancing shadows on the walls. The air feels cooler here, a gentle respite from the sun-drenched garden outside.

Just as you’re about to suggest to Cheka that it’s time to head back, a faint sound catches your attention—soft footsteps, deliberate and measured, echoing from down the hall. You glance over your shoulder instinctively, your heart skipping a beat, and you see him.

Leona.

He’s walking toward you, expression unreadable but his eyes—those sharp, perceptive, seductive- wait no uuuuh… nice looking eyes—are fixed on you with an intensity that makes your pulse quicken. His posture is relaxed, yet there’s an undeniable tension in the way he carries himself. He pauses a few steps away, as if debating whether to say something or simply observe.

You feel a flutter of anticipation, a strange mixture of nerves and warmth. Cheka notices him too and immediately lights up, waving enthusiastically. “Unca Leona! You came to see us!”

Leona’s lips twitch into a faint smirk—almost unnoticeable but enough to make your cheeks flush slightly. “Tch. Don’t get your hopes up, brat. I was just passing by,” he mutters, but his gaze lingers on you a moment longer.

You step closer, feeling the unspoken tension crackling in the air. “We were just about to head back,” you say softly, trying to keep your voice steady. “But I guess you found us first.”

Leona’s eyes flick to Cheka, then back to you. His usual aloofness is tinged with something softer—a hint of hesitance, perhaps, or genuine curiosity.

“I figured you’d be out here,” he finally says, voice low but not unkind. “Sun’s too nice to waste inside.”

You nod, feeling the warmth of his words despite yourself. “It is. The garden’s peaceful today. I was just… enjoying it.”

Leona’s gaze shifts to the sky, then back down. “Yeah. It’s a good day for it.”

For a moment, silence settles between you, thick but not uncomfortable. It’s a quiet understanding, a shared recognition of the moment’s significance—two souls caught in the delicate space between distance and closeness.

Cheka, ever the energetic spirit, suddenly tugs at your sleeve. “Titi! Unca Leona! Come play with us! We’re gonna find the best hiding spot ever!”

Leona’s brow twitches at the mention of play, but he doesn’t reject the invitation outright. Instead, he glances at you, then back at Cheka. “Fine,” he says gruffly. “But if I catch you cheating, I’ll make sure you regret it.”

Cheka giggles, bouncing with excitement. “Yay! Unca Leona’s coming!”

You smile softly, grateful for the moment of levity. “Let’s go, then.”

The three of you head back into the garden, the air filled with laughter and playful shouts. Leona’s presence is strangely comforting—like a quiet anchor amid the chaos of Cheka’s boundless energy. His sharp eyes are watchful, but there’s a softness underneath that makes you feel oddly protected.

As Cheka darts ahead, searching behind bushes and under trees, you steal a glance at Leona. You notice the faint tension in his shoulders, the way his gaze lingers on you from time to time. It’s as if he’s battling an internal storm, trying to decide whether to step closer or remain distant.

You decide to break the silence, your voice gentle. “Leona… you don’t have to stay back. Come join us.”

He stiffens slightly, then scoffs. “Hah. I don’t need to chase a kid around. I’ve got better things to do.”

But even as he protests, he moves closer, eyes watching as Cheka finds a hollow in a tree trunk and squeals with delight. You catch the faintest smile tugging at his lips—an almost imperceptible sign of his amusement.

You kneel beside Cheka, whispering, “Ready for the next round?”

He nods eagerly, eyes shining with mischief. “Yeah! Count again, Titi!”

Leona leans against a nearby tree, arms crossed, watching you and Cheka with a quiet admiration that he’d never admit aloud. His heart pounds softly—an unfamiliar feeling—and he fights the urge to just step in and join.

Instead, he stays in the background, content to observe this rare, fleeting happiness. But deep inside, a small voice whispers that maybe it’s okay to let his guard down just a little. Just for a moment.