More tests was what Ji-hwan had anticipated.
It wasn't this.
The king sent away his attendants early that evening, retaining Ji-hwan within his chambers only. The light was low in the room, a tray full of untouched food placed between them.
Seong-min leaned across, chin rested on one hand. "Eat."
Ji-hwan stayed back. "Your Majesty?"
Seong-min waved to the tray. "I requested it prepared particularly for you."
The dishes were familiar. They were painfully so.
Steamed fish with a touch of citrus. A clear, light soup based on mountain herbs. And sweet rice cakes powdered with fine powdered sugar.
Ji-hwan's favorite food.
From his previous life.
His heart began to pound. Had Seong-min remembered?
He tried to keep himself calm, grasping his chopsticks firmly. "I am honored, Your Majesty."
Seong-min observed him intently. "You appear surprised."
Ji-hwan looked at him. "It is rare for a king to recall a mere courtier's favorites."
A smile flitted over Seong-min's mouth. "And yet, you did not deny it was your favorite."
Ji-hwan's hold on his chopsticks clenched. A trap.
Seong-min was probing him—not with papers or matters of state, but with something much more treacherous.
Something intimate.
Ji-hwan smiled smoothly. "It appears Your Majesty is perceptive."
Seong-min laughed. "Oh, I always am."
Ji-hwan gulped down a mouthful of fish, gritting his teeth to keep from showing any sign of weakness.
This game was only just starting.