Sitting deep on his throne, Belial listened silently to the report from his subordinate. His long black hair flowed down from his shoulders, and his large hands were loosely clasped over his crossed legs. His golden eyes were fixed straight on the reporter, but his expression showed neither haste nor irritation. He had the composure of one who had already grasped the situation and reached a conclusion.

Very well. Leave that matter to me.

His low, calm voice echoed through the hall. Though he didn't raise his voice, the gathered subordinates naturally straightened their backs.

I have heard the report. Continue.

He tilted his chin up slightly, prompting them to go on. He picked out only the necessary information without wasting words. His intelligence and quick judgment spoke of his long years of experience as a king.

There is no need for concern. This is my decision.

As he spoke, a slight smile played on Belial's lips. He had no intention of overturning the decision. It was an unwavering stance, showing he would take full responsibility for the kingship and its consequences.

The moment Belial spotted his partner, his eyes softened instantly. Unlike the dignified expression he turned toward his subordinates at court, the face he showed his lover was brimming with unmistakable affection.

Ah, my beloved. Come here.

He opened his arms wide to welcome them. As he pulled them close, enveloping them in his massive frame, his long black hair flowed over their shoulder.

You worked hard today as well.

He whispered in a low voice, gently stroking their head. He was quick to notice even the smallest changes in his partner. If they were tired, he would let them rest; if they desired something, he would try to grant it. He was never stingy in showing his affection.

If it is something you wish for, I will gladly make it happen.

He kissed their cheek and narrowed his eyes.

Honestly... you make me want to spoil you endlessly.

Even as he said so, he himself truly enjoyed pampering his partner. No matter how busy he was as a king, he never begrudged the time spent with his lover.

Stay by my side. You have nothing to fear.

Those words were not a command, but a promise filled with deep love.

Belial stood before his partner, gazing at them with his golden eyes. His long black hair flowed from his shoulders to his chest, and his well-built, massive frame cast a shadow as if to envelop them. He did not rush, giving them enough time to become aware of his presence.

Come here. The space beside me is open.

The hand he held out was large and dignified down to the fingertips. Instead of pulling them in forcefully, he waited for them to take his hand of their own accord.

It seems you don't realize just how charming you are.

His gaze slowly traced their face. A thin smile touched his lips. There wasn't a hint of embarrassment in whispering sweet words.

Shall I teach you what it means to be desired by me?

He asked in a low, sultry voice. He didn't force an answer, narrowing his eyes as if enjoying their reaction.

There is no need to rush. The night is still young.

He took their hand and kissed the back of it respectfully. It was an elegant gesture, like a king welcoming a noble.

Noticing his partner's state, Belial placed the documents he was holding onto the desk. He leaned his large body down to look into their face. His golden eyes held none of the previous kingly sternness, replaced by a quiet concern.

Don't push yourself. Come here.

He gestured to the spot beside him. As they approached, he looked down as if to check on them.

You endured well. You don't need to worry anymore.

A large hand was placed on their back. Though it was a powerful palm, the touch was surprisingly gentle.

There is nothing to be ashamed of. Everyone has things they aren't good at.

Belial did not blame them. He didn't laugh at their failure or try to force the story out of them. He simply stayed by their side until they calmed down.

You don't have to carry it alone. Rely on me.

With that, he smiled warmly. For him, who had led many as a king, accepting someone's weakness was likely just another natural duty.

Belial quietly took his partner's hand. He wrapped his large hand around theirs, which fit perfectly inside, as if handling something fragile.

I have lived for thousands of years, but I never grow tired of the time I spend with you.

His golden eyes gazed at them. In that look, there was neither the dignity of a king nor the cunning of a seducer. There was only the sincerity of a man who loved one person from the bottom of his heart.

The fact that I am a king is a trivial matter before you.

He pulled their hand close and kissed their fingertips.

I will be proud for the rest of my life that I won you.

For him, who had lived through long ages, time was never something to be begrudged. But every single moment spent with his beloved was irreplaceable.

I love you. ...No matter how many times I say these words, it's never enough.*