A/N: sorry for taking so long to upload this chapter!!!!
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Arriving at Hyeyeon's, the atmosphere shifts when Jungkook receives a call just as you both step out of the car.
"Hyung?" he greets the caller, catching your attention.
Observing him, you notice a change in his demeanor, his gaze briefly meeting yours with a new intensity. "I am on it," he affirms before ending the call.
"You go ahead, I have something urgent to take care of," he tells you, moving back towards the driver's side of the car. "Your keys are with Hyeyeon," he adds, leaving you to watch him drive away with a sense of urgency.
You pause for a moment, processing Jungkook's swift departure before making your way upstairs. The atmosphere in the house is palpably tense, a stark contrast to the usual warmth. You find Hyeyeon and Miyeon sitting close together. Hyeyeon seems to be comforting Miyeon, who appears deeply shaken. Your presence momentarily breaks the heavy silence enveloping the room.
"What's happening?" you ask, your voice cutting through the tension.
Hyeyeon looks up, meeting your eyes. A complex mix of relief and concern is evident in her gaze, signaling the importance of your arrival. "I'm so glad you're here," she starts, her voice carrying a weight that immediately draws your attention.
She pauses as if gathering the strength to deliver the news, "Hwang Seongjae... he's escaped," she finally reveals.
The room feels smaller, the air thicker, as you grapple with the news, understanding the potential danger and the immediate need for action. Your questions come out rapid-fire, with a mix of disbelief and urgency in your tone.
"What? How?" It's almost incomprehensible, given the circumstances that were supposed to have taken care of Seongjae way earlier. "I thought they had dealt with him... How is he still alive?" Your addition carries a hint of frustration.
Hyeyeon's response does little to quell your growing anxiety. "They couldn't go through with it. There was a suspicion that he might have been the mole, leaking all our secrets to The Wolf gang," she explains, her voice tinged with uncertainty.
"The wolf gang?" You ask.
"Our only rivals, Y/N" "The ones that we were hiding from earlier. It was led by that guy-Ahn-" Hyeyeon was about to sentence but your phone rang in your hand, cutting her off.
Your phone lights up with a call, and it's your boyfriend, BoHyun. You excuse yourself with a gesture to Hyeyeon and step aside for a bit of privacy.
"Hey," you answer, trying to sound as normal as possible.
"Y/N-ah," BoHyun's voice comes through, instantly making you feel a bit better. "What are you up to tonight?"
You're caught off guard by his question, given the day's drama. "Um, nothing really. Why?" you reply, curious.
"I'm cooking dinner for us tonight. Meet me at 7," he says, sounding excited.
Your mood lifts instantly. "Wait, are you back in Seoul?" you ask, unable to hide the smile breaking across your face.
"Yeah, I wrapped up my work in Busan earlier today. I'm on my way back now. How did your test go?" he inquires, reminding you of the day's earlier drama with Yeonjun and Jungkook.
"It went really well," you say, the smile fading a tad as you remember. "I can't wait to see you," you add softly, feeling a wave of longing.
"Something seems off. Is everything okay?" he asks, catching onto your subtle change of tone.
"I just really miss you, that's all. I need to see you," you falsely confess, your voice laced with genuine emotion.
"I'll see you tonight, Y/N," he says reassuringly, and after a few more exchanges, you hang up, feeling a mixture of excitement for the evening and the residual stress from the day's events.
As you re-enter the room, Hyeyeon's inquisitive gaze meets yours. "Was that your boyfriend?" she inquires, walking closer to you, while Miyeon sits quietly fidgeting with her phone.
"Yes," you respond, a slight smile playing on your lips, still feeling the warmth of your recent conversation.
"So, you'll be spending your birthday eve with him then?" Hyeyeon teases, her smile broadening. Her words hit you like a bolt from the blue, reminding you of the date. Your birthday is tomorrow!
"Oh my gosh, I totally forgot!" you exclaim, momentarily stunned. "Is that why he's coming back sooner?" you wonder aloud, pondering if BoHyun had planned his return around your birthday without mentioning it.
"Looks like I'll be giving you a call tomorrow morning then. Sounds like you'll have a busy night," Hyeyeon teases further, winking at you suggestively, hinting at the special evening ahead with BoHyun.
"Stop," you playfully swat her hand, a hint of bashfulness in your tone, trying to steer the conversation away from the teasing. "You were in the middle of telling me something," you gently remind her, eager to shift focus back to the more pressing matters at hand.
Hyeyeon lets out a sigh, a cloud of concern passing over her features. "Let's not dwell on that for now. The guys are on it," she tries to assure you, though her voice lacks conviction.
"What are you talking about?" your curiosity piqued, sensing the gravity in her tone.
"It's just that... that guy, the leader, and his men pose a bigger threat than we initially thought," Hyeyeon confesses, her words heavy with worry.
"And why do you say that?" you press on, needing to understand the full scope of the situation.
"No one has ever really seen the guy, the one calling the shots," she reveals, adding a layer of mystery to the already tense situation. "Jimin mentioned that he's become their only difficult enemy. It's all rooted in a very dark and complicated past. They... they killed his older brother," Hyeyeon shares, the weight of the revelation evident in her voice. "And now, with the news of Seongjae's escape, there's fear that this guy is back for revenge. He's known for his... let's say, nasty methods of getting even," she explains further.
"At least we now know that Seongjae was indeed the mole and in their gang- now he is out too, I'm scared they might be plotting something big," she stutters and continues, her gaze clouded with fear. "Do you think I should postpone the wedding?" she asks, seeking your opinion in the face of such uncertainty.
"What does Jimin think about this?" you inquire.
"He said whatever I decide, he'll make it happen. It's ultimately up to me, but I really need your advice," Hyeyeon confides, clearly placing a great deal of weight on your opinion.
"Hyeyeon, today it's this guy causing trouble, and tomorrow it might be someone else. You can't keep postponing your life for what-ifs. How long are you going to push off things that are meant to happen? Now's as good a time as any," you suggest.
"You know, I think you're right," she acknowledges, her voice tinged with worry yet showing a glimmer of resolve.
"Don't worry, the guys will handle whatever comes up, just like they always do. I trust them," you reassure her, trying to boost her confidence in the situation.
"Alright then," Hyeyeon finally allows a small smile to grace her lips, a bit of the weight seemingly lifted from her shoulders thanks to your encouragement and trust.
"I've got to head home and get ready for tonight," you announce, turning to retrieve your keys. Hyeyeon catches your hand, prompting you to look back at her with a questioning gaze.
"Y/N," she begins, her voice laced with concern. "Please, be extra cautious. With Seongjae on the loose... You know he was obsessed with you, and I'm worried he might try something," she confesses, the apprehension clear in her eyes.
"Hyeyeon-ah, it's alright. I'm not defenseless. Remember, Jungkook gave me a gun for situations just like this," you reassure her, trying to ease her fears.
"He gave you a gun?" Hyeyeon's surprise is evident, having been unaware of this fact.
"Yeah, he did," you confirm, nodding.
"Wow, Jimin won't even let me near one," she scoffs, half in jest, half in envy.
"That's because you're the definition of 'accident waiting to happen,' you are clumsy as fuck" you retort with a laugh, lightening the mood.
***
As you prepare to step out, you pause for a moment, checking your reflection in the mirror one last time. The dress you've chosen, after a lengthy decision process and receiving Hyeyeon's stamp of approval via text, fits perfectly, accentuating your features. Your makeup, a balance of elegance and simplicity, complements the outfit well. Taking a deep breath, you grab your purse, giving yourself a final once-over in the mirror. Satisfied with your appearance, you head out the door, ready for the evening ahead.
Reaching his place, you gave a gentle knock, only to find the door slightly open. Pushing it open, you stepped into a romantic setup of rose petals and a candlelight pathway guiding you inside. A wide smile spread across your face as your heart fluttered with excitement.
The house was softly lit by candles, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere, with a beautifully arranged dining area near the kitchen. Placing your purse on the couch, you took a moment to admire the effort put into making this evening special.
"Happy birthday, my queen," a familiar voice greeted you warmly.
Turning around, your excitement bubbled over. BoHyun stood there, dressed up in a white button-up translucent shirt and dark navy pants, leaning on the door frame, filming your reaction with one hand while the other rested in his pocket.
"BoHyun-ssi," you exclaimed, before rushing over to him. You couldn't help but greet him with a deep, warm kiss.
As you lean out from the kiss, absorbed in the soft, romantic glow of candlelight, a deep sense of appreciation floods you. "I love this," you whispered looking deep into his eyes, your voice barely louder than the flickering flames, yet filled with profound gratitude for the effort BoHyun had put into making the evening unforgettable.
He responded with a warmth that seemed to echo from his very soul, "And I love you." Drawing you in for another kiss, his lips met yours with a gentleness that spoke volumes of his deep affection. His hands, tender and reassuring, found their way around you, eliciting a flutter of excitement in your heart. BoHyun's touch was unlike any other.
The dinner that followed was not just a culinary delight but a heartfelt expression of his love. BoHyun had prepared each dish with you in mind, infusing every bite with the essence of his affection. As you both sat down to eat, the room filled with laughter and shared stories, catching up on things that happened while you were apart.
***
With glasses of wine in hand, you both slipped into a gentle rhythm, swaying together through the softly lit room. It was a dance of hearts as much as it was of bodies, each step and turn drawing you closer.
As the music eventually faded into the background, the night transitioned seamlessly into a cozy movie-watching experience. BoHyun had transformed the living room into a makeshift cinema, complete with a sprawling mattress and an array of plush cushions spread out on the floor. The large projector screen lit up the dim room, casting its glow on your happy faces.
The night soon started turning into an intimate one. He eventually had made his way on the top of you, his hands on your curves, lips playing with yours. The moment though doesn't last longer. It is abruptly paused by loud knocks at the door, slicing through the intimacy like a cold breeze.
He halts, his expression a mix of annoyance and confusion, as he reluctantly pulls away from the kiss to glance towards the door. "Who could that be now?" he mutters, the frustration evident in his voice. Yet, in his movement, there's a tenderness; he ensures you're wrapped in the blanket, a gesture of care amidst the unexpected disruption.
"Give me a moment, Y/N. I'll be right back," he assures you, his tone apologetic yet firm, as if promising the interruption won't steal the night away from you. He rises, leaving you on the mattress.
The moment he opens the door and speaks to the visitors who seem familiar to him, there's a tension you can't ignore. He throws a reassuring glance your way before he wraps up the conversation and returns to your side after a long minute.
"I'm really sorry about that," he murmurs, his apology sincere as he picks up where you both left off. He kisses the fabric on your belly and makes his way up to your neck, but your curiosity isn't easily quelled.
"What was all that about?" you can't help but ask, pulling back slightly to get a better look at him. He tries to brush it off with a vague, "It's nothing," even as he continues to shower you with Kisses. Yet, you press harder, "BoHyun-ssi," insisting on a real answer.
He sighs, a signal of surrender, and stops to meet your eyes. "There's a situation they need me for, urgently," he admits, the weight of his words not lost on you.
You ask him, "Then why are you still here?" highlighting the importance of his presence elsewhere.
His declaration, "Because tonight is about us, I'm not going anywhere," "I couldn't care less about anything else" reflects his dedication to you. Nevertheless, you're not swayed, understanding the seriousness of the intrusion.
"This isn't about us right now. I am not that important. If they came to you in person, it's critical. You need to go," you insist, urging him to prioritize his responsibilities over your personal time together, despite the disappointment it brings.
BoHyun's gaze intensifies, communicating a depth of feeling that halts you in your tracks. "Y/N," he begins, his voice carrying a blend of earnestness and firmness, "never say that again. You can't possibly imagine how important you are to me." He pauses, ensuring his words sink in. "I don't have a family anymore. My brother, the only family I had, is gone. Now, it's just you and me. You're my family now, and nothingâabsolutely nothingâis more important than that." His sudden outburst and declaration were heartfelt and unwavering, leaving no room for doubt about where his priorities lie.
"I-I... I'm sorry about your brother," you find yourself saying, feeling a sudden surge of sadness for his loss.
"Forget it," BoHyun dismisses with a shake of his head, seeking solace by burying his face in your chest, craving a moment of comfort. However, this quiet moment is once again shattered by the insistent ringing of his phone. Lifting his head, he checks the caller ID, quickly silences the phone with a sigh, revealing the internal struggle he's facing.
"Do it for me," you urge gently, seeing the conflict play out in his eyes. "Go and help them with whatever they need." It's clear from his hesitation and the weight of his sigh that this decision is not easy for him, but you recognize the necessity of his involvement and push him to prioritize it.
He lets out a deep breath and reluctantly pulls himself out of the bed. "Fine!" he concedes. "But you're staying here. I'll be back soon," he insists, making it clear he doesn't want you alone or out in the city late at night.
"I'll be here waiting," you assure him with a warm smile, making yourself comfortable in the cozy bed he's arranged.
"Alright then, I'll be back!" he promises, gathering his belongings quickly before stepping out. As the door closes behind him, the room falls into an almost eerie silence, prompting you to turn the movie back on for some background noise. The clock strikes midnight, and it dawns on you that you're spending the first moments of your birthday alone, an unexpected turn of events.
With a sigh, you try to brush off the disappointment, focusing instead on the movie and the hope of his swift return.
Your phone suddenly begins to light up with a flurry of notifications, you can't help but feel a wave of warmth wash over you. Your friends from school, college, and cafe, knowing all too well your habit of setting your phone to "do not disturb" mode, have left a series of texts and voicemails, each one a proof of their thoughtfulness and care for you. As you start to listen and read through each message, a growing smile spreads across your face, reflecting the joy and appreciation you feel for having such considerate people in your life. Their words, full of well wishes and affection, add a layer of comfort and celebration to your lonely birthday moment, reminding you that even in solitude, you're never truly alone.
Your phone's screen illuminates with an incoming call, and you see it's from your mom. You swipe to answer, feeling a mix of emotions at the sight of her name.
"Happy birthday, my dear!" Your mom's voice, warm and loving, greets you. You can almost picture her smile through the phone.
"Thank you, Mom. It's been a quiet day, but a good one," you reply, your voice carrying a hint of the solitude you've experienced today.
"I just wish we could be there with you to celebrate. You know, every year you grow older, it amazes me just how much you've accomplished. You're such a strong and independent person," she continues, her tone filled with pride.
Your dad's voice then comes through, adding, "She gets it from her uncle, you know. He had a big hand in raising her, probably more than we did."
The mention of your uncle brings a rush of memories. He was more than just a relative; he was a father figure to you growing up, he was a mentor, a friend, and at times, it felt like he understood you better than anyone else. Both your parents worked through your childhood and teenage. It's your uncle who would take you with him to his farm and wherever he'd go, accompanied by your elder brother, Seokjin. The accident that took him away when you were sixteen still feels like a wound that hasn't fully healed. You've never spoken of him ever since and all of your family knows how sensitive you are to that topic.
"Both of you played a huge part in who I am today," you say, trying to lighten the mood and reassure them.
There's a brief pause on their end, a silent exchange you've grown familiar with over the years.
"Yah!" you mother nudges your father, loudly enough for you to hear. She knows you. "Y/N, aren't you at your boyfriend's place? Can we talk to him?" She immediately changes the topic.
"He's busy at the moment. And, uhâ" But before you can elaborate, the persistent beep of the incoming call interrupts you. It was Hyeyeon, constantly calling you even though she said she'd call in the morning knowing you'd be with Bohyun at this time.
"Sorry, Mom, Dad, Hyeyeon's calling me. I should probably see what she wants. Can I call you back in the morning?" you say, feeling a mix of disappointment and urgency.
"Of course, dear. Don't let us keep you. We just wanted to make sure you know how much we love you," your mom responds, her voice filled with understanding.
"Yeah, take care of yourself, Y/N-ah. And we're looking forward to finally meeting this mysterious boyfriend of yours," your dad adds with a hint of curiosity and excitement in his voice.
You promise to call them back and quickly switch to answer Hyeyeon's call, curious and slightly anxious about the reason for her call at such a late hour.
"Thanks, my love! I love you too," you greet cheerfully, assuming she's calling to wish you a happy birthday. But the tone on the other end immediately tells you something's amiss.
"Y/N. I'm really scared," Hyeyeon's voice comes through, tense and urgent, not at all what you were expecting.
Confused and concerned, you ask, "What's going on? Are you okay?" You sit up.
"I'm in my car, following Miyeon. She snuck out, and I've had this feeling she's been hiding something these past few days. I decided it's time to find out what," Hyeyeon explains, her voice laced with fear and determination.
"WHAT?" Your concern deepens. "Where are you heading?" you press, sitting up straighter, preparing for the worst.
She doesn't respond and all you hear is a muffle. "Namsan-" "Tower-"
"Hyeyeon, what are you thinking? Stop right now!" you exclaim, panic setting in. "You're putting yourself in danger. Does Jimin have any idea you're doing this?"
"No way, he'd be furious if he knew I was out here, especially doing something this risky," she admits, her voice tinged with fear.
"And you're heading towards Namsan Tower you said? Seriously, Hyeyeon, stay put. Don't even think about getting out of your car. I'm on my way," you instruct firmly, your heart racing as you scramble to get ready. "Just stay on the line with me. I'll be there as soon as I can."
"Okay; I'm sending you my location now," Hyeyeon responds, her voice steadier with your assurance. As you hastily grab your essentials, your thoughts fleetingly touch on Bohyun and the promise to wait for his return. However, the urgency to safeguard Hyeyeon overshadows everything else.
"Do you have anything for self-defense?" you inquire, hoping she's somewhat prepared.
"Just my pepper spray," she answers hesitantly.
You can't help but curse under your breath at the response. "Pepper spray? Hyeyeon, in situations like this, you need something more substantial."
"What, like a knife?" she sounds puzzled and slightly alarmed.
"No, not a knife. Didn't Jimin provide you with something more effective, like a gun?" The words slip out before you can gauge her reaction.
"A gun?" Her voice pitches higher in shock. "Why on earth would I carry a gun? Waitâ you do have one!"
"Jesus, Hyeyeon, stay alert," you stress as she mentions Miyeon disappearing down a desolate street. Your heart races with the urgency of the situation. "Keep your eyes open, but do not, under any circumstances, leave the car. I'm on my way."
"Okay," she complies, her voice laced with a mix of fear and determination. When you finally arrive, you spot Hyeyeon's car and swiftly park beside it. Exiting your vehicle, you quickly slide into hers, startling her in the process.
"God, you scared me," Hyeyeon exclaims, jumping at your sudden appearance.
"Why weren't your doors locked?" Your voice is sharp with concern and frustration.
"I must have forgotten in the panic," she murmurs, a hint of guilt in her voice.
"She disappeared into that alley, and I've lost sight of her. I'm convinced she's still involved with Seongjae," Hyeyeon voices her suspicions, her gaze fixed on the shadowed street where Miyeon vanished. The tension in the car is palpable as you both contemplate the next move, ready to confront whatever lies ahead.
"Alright, let's see if she really is meeting him," you assert, stepping out of the car with a mix of determination and caution.
Hyeyeon, hesitantly following, questions, "Are we sure about this?"
Your sharp glance cuts through her doubts. "You initiated this, so we're seeing it through," you respond firmly, taunting her for doing this in the first place.
"Damn straight," Hyeyeon gives a firm embarrassed nod, her voice carrying a newfound resolve.
Together, you navigate the dimly lit alley, each step deliberate, blending into the shadows. Up ahead, Miyeon's figure becomes visible, her posture tense with anticipation.
"There she is," Hyeyeon whispers, spotting Miyeon.
As you both observe, a vehicle approaches, its headlights briefly illuminating Miyeon's anxious face. "Here comes the moment of truth," you murmur, watching intently as the car stops beside her, the unfolding scene poised to reveal answers to the questions that brought you here.
Watching intently, the unfolding scene takes a tense turn as the car door opens, revealing Yeobin and Seongjae. Hyeyeon nearly exclaims, "Told you!" but your quick action silences her, pressing a hand against her mouth while shooting a glare to caution silence.
The interaction between Miyeon, Yeobin, and Seongjae rapidly devolves into an argument, with Seongjae visibly asserting dominance, his voice raised in anger, even going as far as to physically intimidate Miyeon, who looks increasingly distressed. Yeobin, on the other hand, remains a silent observer to the confrontation.
"Should we call Jimin and the rest to inform them about Seongjae's location?" Hyeyeon whispers, a hint of worry in her voice.
You hesitate, weighing the options. "That'll expose what we were up to," you reason, considering the consequences. After a moment of thought, you add, "Let's wait for Miyeon to return home. We can confront her directly. She'll know where we can find these assholes anyway. We wouldn't be in trouble then."
Agreeing with the plan, you both decide to maintain your cover, observing silently, prepared to intervene if necessary but hoping to resolve the matter more discreetly once back home.
Just then, another car glides to a stop, adding to the tension. Peering into the dimly lit alley, you try to make out who's stepping out. A man in neatly pressed white and navy blue dress pants exits the vehicle, his movements smooth and confident. As he approaches the group, his face comes into clear view.
"BoHyun-ssi," you whisper, your eyes widening, disbelief coloring your tone. Instinctively, you tighten your hold on Hyeyeon's wrist for support. Memories surge forwardâconversations about BoHyun's connections that you'd dismissed, hints dropped by Yeobin about his brother's close ties with your boyfriend, all taking on new significance.
As BoHyun casually joins the confrontation, interacting with Seongjae and Yeobin as if it were an everyday occurrence, a sense of betrayal washes over you. How could the person with whom you'd been planning a future be so deeply involved in something so ominous?
You stand there, conflicted and shocked, watching BoHyun. The realization that the man you are involved with is intertwined with figures from a dangerous underworld shakes your sense of trust. You're caught between the urge to confront him and the need to retreat, to process the staggering revelation that has just upended your world.
Yet for some reason, you aren't heartbroken but only shocked and felt deeply betrayed as if everything was a lie. You working for him, him being your boss, him caring for you, him wanting to be with you. All of it was a lie.
Just before you can fully process the scene unfolding before you, a sharp cry pierces the air. "Y/N!" Hyeyeon's voice is urgent, filled with alarm. It snaps your attention back, but it's too lateâdarkness swallows everything. The world fades away as you slip into unconsciousness, the last echoes of your name hanging in the air, marking the moment everything changed.
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A/N: we are now on our way towards the end of this book.