jia

My Dearest Husband,

The years have been harsh to us, and the cracks in our marriage grow wider with each passing day. Your hands, once embracing me so gentle and loving, now leave bruises upon my skin that no amount of powder or paint can conceal.

I dare not speak of the pain that lingers within me, for fear of invoking your wrath once more. Yet, the time has come for me to break the chains that bind me to this wretched existence and find solace in the arms of another.

Know this, my dear husband, I shall not suffer in silence any longer. Your tyranny shall not be tolerated, and I shall not rest until I am free from the shackles of your oppression.

With every ounce of strength left within me,

[Your Name]

The clock turned midnight.

You sat by the window, the gentle patter of rain against the glass a soothing backdrop to the turmoil raging within your heart. The room felt suffocating, the walls seemingly closing in on you with each passing moment. How long has it been since you last felt a glimmer of hope in this house?

How long has it been since you last felt safe in it?

You closed your eyes. Nothing but silence greeted you.

Good. 

The creak of the floorboards beneath your feet sounded deafening in the silence of the night, and you held your breath, afraid that even the slightest noise would awaken him.

Him.

Your husband, or rather: your own personal tormentor. 

“He's a good man,” your mother in law screamed, her fingernails marking your skin, her eyes desperate and angry. “Be a good wife and learn to obey and endure. My son said it was a mistake, and so be it!”

The black eye he gave you days later told a different story. Yet it didn't matter.

Once outside, you found yourself drawn to the familiar path that led to the edge of the forest. 

Finally stepping outside the small, scruffy looking house, you were greeted by darkness and the occasional chirping of various insects. Luckily, the temperatures were still mild in late September, yet you still pulled the cardigan tighter around you. Despite the darkness and uncertainty that surrounded you, there was a sense of freedom in being away from the suffocating confines of your home.

Just for a little, a few hours, both your mind and body could finally relax.

As you made your way along the familiar path towards the edge of the forest, a sense of anticipation bubbled within you. For the first time in what felt like an eternity, you allowed yourself to entertain the possibility of a bit of time free from fear and pain. It would only last a short while, making you lose valuable hours of sleep, but still for you, it was enough.

The path before you seemed to stretch on endlessly, disappearing into the darkness of the woods. Tall, gnarled trees loomed overhead, their branches reaching out like skeletal fingers towards the heavens. The soft rustle of leaves in the gentle breeze filled the air, accompanied by the occasional hoot of an owl or the distant cry of a night bird.

The chirping at the insects had stopped entirely.

Despite the late hour, the forest was buzzing with activity. Small creatures - stray cats and dogs known to frequent the area - scurried among the underbrush, their eyes glowing in the darkness as they went about their nocturnal rituals. Every now and then, the faint glimmer of fireflies could be seen darting through the trees, their soft, golden light illuminating the path ahead.

You followed their lead, heart pounding in your chest as you ventured deeper into the forest. For a split second, your mind wandered back to your husband. You knew he was asleep, passed out blank from the amount of alcohol he consumed at The Saloon, the only pub in your village.

Despite knowing he was asleep, the fear lingered like a dark cloud looming over your every thought. The bruises on your skin served as a constant reminder of his violence, and even in his absence, his presence felt suffocating.

“Meow.”

The sound broke the silence of the night, startling you momentarily, making you almost trip over your own feet. Your heart raced as you glanced around, half expecting to see your husband's shadow looming in the darkness. But there was no sign of him, only the gentle rustle of leaves and the occasional chirp of insects.

He's not here, you reminded yourself, taking a deep, slow breath, it's just a cat. It's okay. You're okay. 

As you stood there, trying to calm your racing heart, the source of the meow emerged from the bushes - a small, scruffy-looking cat with fur as dark as the night itself. 

It's a beautiful cat, you thought.

You crouched down, extending a tentative hand towards the cat. “Hey there, little one,” you murmured softly, your voice barely above a whisper. “Are you out here all alone?”

The cat looked you up and down for a moment, then cautiously approached, its movements slow and careful at first. It sniffed your outstretched hand, then rubbed its head against your fingers, purring softly.

A small smile tugged at the corners of your lips as you gently scratched behind the cat's ears.

“Looks like we're both seeking some peace in the night,” you said, your words more for yourself than for the cat. But in that moment, it felt like the cat understood, as if it were offering you silent companionship in this dark, lonely forest.

With a sigh, you leaned back against a nearby tree, the cat following and curling up beside you. 

“I should give you a name, right?” you hummed. The cat didn't respond, just continued purring as your fingers went through its unkempt yet soft fur.

“I have the gut feeling that you're a boy, so… let's name you Benji, shall we?”

You giggled as Benji took your hand in his paws, gently biting and licking while his purring filled your ears. 

“You like it? What a good, sweet boy.”

Suddenly, a rustling in the bushes nearby startled you, tearing your gaze away from Benji. The cat hissed, and only then you saw what was making the noise: a… goat? 

A goat that was now sprinting right at you at full speed. Panicked, you hurried to your feet, backing away slowly only to be met by the tree you previously set by. You turned around to run, but as you did, the goat lunged forward, catching your dress with its horns and tearing the fabric apart. A loud scream - your loud scream - echoed through the night, and you fell to the ground, your knees and hands immediately starting to bleed as they hit the forest floor. 

“Help!” you screamed, your voice barely audible over the pounding of your heart and the goat's relentless assault. In a desperate attempt to escape, you scrambled away, your hands and knees scraping against the rough ground once again, blood mingling with dirt as you crawled towards another tree, away from the animal. “Somebody, please help me!”

Your desperate cries pierced through the darkness. Every fibre of your being screamed for someone to hear your plea and rescue you from this nightmare.

And then, as if conjured by your sheer desperation, a male voice cut through the night. 

“Let her be, you damn goat!” 

Oh finally.

You turned towards the source of the voice, your heart pounding in your chest as you beheld the figure emerging from the shadows. In the darkness, you couldn't see his features clearly, but the silhouette of a lean figure emerged from the shadows. His stature was not imposing, but there was a quiet strength in the way he carried himself. Short, tousled hair framed his face, and his clean-shaven jawline hinted at a youthful charm. Despite his lean frame, there was a sense of agility and grace in his movements as he approached, his steps purposeful yet cautious. His clothes, though worn and faded, spoke of practicality rather than luxury, and the faint glint of silver caught your eye as moonlight danced upon a necklace around his neck.

“Get back, Django,” he commanded, his voice stern and serious. 

For a moment, it seemed as though the goat - Django - hesitated, its wild eyes darting between you and the stranger as if weighing its options. But then, with a defiant snort, the goat actually backed away, its hooves scraping against the forest floor as it retreated back to its owner's side.

You watched in stunned silence as the young man approached, his expression softened by a glimmer of concern. “Are you alright?” he asked, his voice gentler now.

You nodded weakly, your body trembling with a mixture of fear and relief as you struggled to sit up. He offered you a hand, and you accepted it gratefully, allowing him to help you to your feet. “Thank you,” you murmured, your voice barely above a whisper as you met his gaze.

Your eyes widened. 

You knew this man. 

It was hard not to, because the women at the market loved to gossip about him.

“He's a filthy man. Have you seen the dresses he makes? Outrageous.”

His name was Kim Hongjoong, you believed, a man known for his unconventional ways and said ‘outrageous’ dresses he crafted.

The women's cruel words towards him echoed in your mind, their voices dripping with disgust whenever his name was mentioned. They spoke of him as if he were beneath them, a plague, to be avoided at all costs. But as you looked at him now, you saw none of the malice they spoke of, only kindness and a smile etched into his features.

Hongjoong's eyes softened at your words. He had a pretty face, you realised, staring up at him in awe and curiosity.

You are a married woman! Oh Lord, may you save me from those malicious, evil thoughts!

“You shouldn't be out here alone,” he said, his voice tinged with concern. 

“I'm always here alone,” you responded. “It's my safe space.”

Instead of pressing you further, his eyes scanned your form, his expression growing more serious as he took in the extent of both your wounds and torn dress.

“It's even worse than I thought…” He looked at Django, who's now freely roaming around, seemingly no longer agitated and angry. “This goddamn goat,” he groaned.

“Is he always like this?” you asked.

Hongjoong sighed, running a hand through his tousled hair as he glanced back at Django with a mixture of frustration and resignation. “Unfortunately, yes,” he replied, “He's a stubborn creature, to say the least. His former owner wanted to slaughter him because he was aggressive towards humans and goats alike, but I convinced him to let me take care of him instead.”

“That's very noble of you,” you remarked, a sense of admiration evident in your voice. “Not many would take in a troubled animal like Django and give him a chance to change.”

Hongjoong offered you a small, appreciative smile, his eyes reflecting a hint of pride. “It hasn't been easy,” he admitted, patting Django's head, “But despite a few angry outbursts here and there, he's actually been adjusting well.”

You hummed, still keeping your distance from the goat that just attacked you. You and him probably won't become friends any time soon.

“Do you think you are able to walk?”

You nodded, though the pain throbbing in your knees and hands contradict your words. “I'll be fine,” you assured him, though your voice faltered slightly as you spoke.

Hongjoong's gaze softened with concern as he observed your state, his brows furrowing slightly with worry. “Are you sure?” he asked, his tone gentle yet insistent. “You're hurt, and it's not safe for you to be out here alone, especially with those injuries.”

You hesitated. Despite your initial plan to find solace and peace in the forest, you couldn't deny the reality of your situation - bruised, bleeding, and very much in need of assistance.

Swallowing your pride, you met Hongjoong's gaze with a grateful nod. “I... I think I could use some help,” you admitted, your voice wavering slightly with a mixture of exhaustion and relief.

Without hesitation, Hongjoong stepped closer, offering you his arm for support. “Here," he said, “Lean on me. We'll get you patched up and back home safely.”

“N-no!” you screeched, making Hongjoong falter in his steps and shoot you a confused look, “I-i mean, the night's still young, am I right? There's no need to return home just yet…”

“Why are you avoiding your own home?”

Your heart raced at his question, and you could feel your pulse pounding in your ears. His straightforwardness caught you off-guard, yet you tried - and failed - to hide your uneasiness and upcoming fear.

“You wouldn't understand,” you whispered.

Avoiding his eyes, you bit your lip, unsure of how to respond. The fear of revealing too much, of exposing the dark secrets of your marriage, held you back. You couldn't bear the thought of anyone knowing the truth, let alone a stranger who could very much use this information against you.

Hongjoong must have sensed your hesitation, for he didn't press further. Instead, he offered a gentle smile, his eyes filled with understanding. “It's alright,” he said softly. “You don't have to explain. Let's just get you somewhere safe and comfortable for now.”

His words and tone surprised you. You were accustomed to being met with demands and anger, not patience and empathy. The contrast left you feeling both confused and intrigued. Why was he being so kind to you? What did he hope to gain from helping a stranger in the middle of the night?

You accepted his support, leaning on him as you walked, your steps slow and cautious. The pain in your knees and hands was a constant reminder of your current vulnerability, but Hongjoong's steady presence provided a strange sense of comfort. Despite your initial wariness, you found yourself beginning to trust him.

Oh, what a foolish woman you are.

“Where will you take me?”

“To my house. It would be a shame if your husband would see you like this, with visible injuries and a torn dress, wouldn't it?”

One.

Two.

Three.

Four.

That's how long you stared into his eyes, and he stared into yours.

Both of you knew what this meant.

Yet no one spoke it out loud. Society forbade it. 

You exhaled a trembling breath, the truth of his words settling heavily between you. “Yes,” you whispered, your voice barely audible, “It would be a shame.”

Hongjoong’s eyes softened, as if he could read the unspoken pain behind your words. “Let’s go, then,” he said gently, guiding you along the path with Django following closely behind.

“You know,” you whispered, “a married woman should never visit a bachelor's property alone. Especially at such late hours.”

Hongjoong glanced at you, a faint, yet boyish smile playing on his lips. “If you go by the rules of society, then yes,” he said, “but I'm known to do the exact opposite.”

Hongjoong's house came into view after a short walk through the forest. It was a modest building outside the small village, yet it looked charming, nestled amid tall trees that swayed gently in the night breeze. The front was adorned with a small, covered porch, where a couple of wooden chairs and a table sat invitingly. Ivy climbed up the walls, giving the house an almost fairytale-like quality.

It seemed to be well kept too, a stark contrast to your own home.

As you approached, you noticed the sign above the door, “Kim’s Dressmaking,” written in elegant, swirling letters. It was clear that the front of the house doubled as a shop. The large windows displayed a variety of dresses, each more beautiful and intricate than the last, their fabrics shimmering softly in the dim light. 

You remembered the villager's harsh words, and for a small second you thought: should you really follow this unruly man? What if anyone would see you entering his house at night, completely alone?

But you also knew this was quite literally the only solution right now, because if your husband saw you at home tending to your wounds he'd know of your nightly trips, and you couldn't let that happen.

So, the outcast’s house it was.

Hongjoong, who just escorted Django back to a small stall behind the property, passed you and pushed open the door, the bell above it tinkling softly. The interior of the shop was a burst of colour and creativity. Dresses of all styles and fabrics lined the walls, hung from mannequins, and lay draped over chairs and tables. Ribbons, lace, and beads were strewn about in an organised chaos that spoke of hours of dedicated craftsmanship. The scent of fresh fabric and a hint of lavender lingered in the air.

These dresses were made for royalty, beautiful and extravagant, unlike anything normal citizens would wear. You pitied Hongjoong; his talent was being wasted in a small village, while queens and princesses should be the ones wearing them, not women talking badly about his craft the second he turned his back on them.

“Welcome to my workshop,” Hongjoong said, a note of pride in his voice. He led you through the shop and towards a door at the back. “The living area is just through here.”

You followed him into a cozy living space that was a stark contrast to the bustling shop. The room was warmly lit by a few oil lamps, casting a soft glow over the rustic wooden furniture. A large, comfortable-looking sofa took up most of one wall, with a knitted blanket draped over it. Shelves lined with books and trinkets filled another wall, and a small fireplace crackled with a gentle fire, providing a soothing warmth. A modest kitchen area occupied one corner, with a wooden table and two chairs positioned nearby.

“Sit,” Hongjoong instructed gently, guiding you to the sofa. “I'll get some water and bandages for your wounds.”

“Yes, sir,” you giggled, a childlike euphoria suddenly overcoming you. He shot you a grin in response.

You sank into the sofa, the softness a welcome relief after the night's ordeal. You watched as Hongjoong moved around in the kitchen, his movements swift and efficient.

After a few minutes, he returned with a bowl of warm water, a clean cloth, and a small box of medical supplies. He knelt beside you, his eyes focused and serious as he gently took your hands in his.

“This might sting a bit,” he warned, dipping the cloth into the water and carefully cleaning the dirt and blood from your scrapes. His touch was surprisingly gentle, and you found yourself relaxing under his care.

“Thank you,” you murmured, watching him work. The tenderness in his actions was a stark contrast to the harshness you had endured at home.

“You're welcome,” he replied softly, his eyes meeting yours briefly before returning to his task. He worked silently for a few moments, cleaning and bandaging your wounds with practised ease.

“Now,” he said, standing up and cleaning his hands with the washcloth, “all we gotta do is fix your dress now to avoid your husband suspecting anything.”

“I… I don't have any money to pay you,” you admitted.

Hongjoong shook his head, a kind smile playing on his lips. "Don't worry about that," he said. “Consider it my way of helping a neighbour in need. I mean, it was my goat who put you in this situation after all.”

The kindness in his words brought tears to your eyes, and you had to look away to hide your emotions. It's been an hour since you've met this man, and yet he already treated you better than people whom you should be closest to. It had been so long since someone had shown you such genuine care and concern.

Hongjoong led you to a small sewing table in the corner of the room, surrounded by bolts of fabric, spools of thread, and an array of needles and scissors. He pulled out a chair for you and you sat down, feeling a sense of peace settle over you.

“Can I ask another favour of you?” you asked quietly.

Hongjoong knelt down, now looking up to you. It made your heart beat faster, and you hated yourself for it.

“Go ahead,” he said, encouraging you to speak.

“Please don't leave any obvious stitches… my husband would notice and then he would get mad and I really don't-” 

“Hey, hey,” Hongjoong shushed you, carefully taking your trembling hand in his own.

His gentle touch seemed to soothe you immediately. 

“I'll give my very best. Your husband won't notice anything amiss,” he promised.

As he worked, carefully mending the torn fabric of your dress, you watched his skilled hands move with precision and grace. His focus was unwavering, and you couldn't help but admire the artistry in his every movement.

“You know,” you said softly, breaking the silence, “the women in the village talk about you. They say your dresses are too extravagant for common folk.”

Hongjoong chuckled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. “I've heard the gossip,” he admitted. “But I don't create these dresses for them. Let's say my clients are of more… different backgrounds.”

“You mean women of wealthier status?”

“Indeed.”

You couldn't help but giggle at Hongjoong's response.

“So does that mean… Did you just… indirectly make fun of those women, Hongjoong?” you asked, trying to stifle your laughter.

A mischievous smile spread across his face as he glanced up at you. “Maybe I did,” he replied, his eyes twinkling with a playful glint. “But it's only fair, don't you think? They judge me without understanding, too.”

You laughed again, the sound feeling foreign yet welcome to your own ears. 

Hongjoong’s returned to his work, his fingers working fast, his concentration unwavering. You watched him in awe. There was something comforting about watching him work, knowing he was doing his best to help you. And on top of that, his skills fascinated you. You didn't know much about the craft of dressmaking, yet even a layin like you knew that true skill was needed for such incredible work.

And Kim Hongjoong definitely had that skill.

“Why do you stay here?” you asked after a moment of silence, curiosity getting the better of you. “You could be making dresses for queens and princesses, living a life far away from all the judgement and poverty of this village.”

Hongjoong paused, his needle stopping mid-air as he looked up at you once again. “I could do that, you're right,” he agreed, “but I prefer living peacefully. Going back to the court… it's not what I want anymore. People there are difficult.”

“More difficult than here?”

He laughed. “Yeah, actually. Just in a different way.”

You hummed. Hongjoong finished mending your dress, carefully examining his work before looking up at you with a satisfied smile. “There,” he said, “all done. Your husband won’t notice a thing.”

You looked down at the dress, marvelling at his skill. The stitches were invisible, the fabric as good as new. “Thank you,” you said, your gratitude heavily evident in your voice.

He stood up, offering you his hand once more. “Let me walk you home,” he said. “It’s not safe for you to go alone.”

Panic rushed through you at his suggestion, your heart pounding in your chest. You jerked back, withdrawing your hand from his as if his touch burned you.

“No,” you said, your voice trembling, “I can't let you do that. What if someone sees us together? What if my husband finds out?”

Hongjoong's brows furrowed in concern. “But it’s not safe for you to walk alone at this hour. After what happened in the forest, I can’t just let you go unaccompanied.”

You shook your head vehemently, your hands clenching the fabric of your freshly mended dress. “I appreciate your kindness, Hongjoong, but you don’t understand. If anyone sees us together, it will only get worse for me. My husband… he's not a kind man. He'll make my life a living hell.”

Hongjoong's expression softened. He reached out as if to comfort you, but then hesitated as you took another step back. “I won’t let anything happen to you, but I understand your fear. At least let me watch and follow you from a distance, to make sure you get home safely.”

You nodded reluctantly. It was late after all, and even though the village was small, you still didn't feel safe walking back alone. “Thank you,” you whispered, your voice barely audible. “Just… Please, be careful.”

Hongjoong gave you a reassuring nod. “I promise. Just stay close to the path, and I’ll make sure you get home safely.” He led you to the door, and as you stepped out into the night, the cool air brushing against your skin, you felt a sudden sadness overcoming you.

You didn't want to leave. Or moreover: you didn't want to go back. Back to him. 

With a final glance back at Hongjoong, you set off down the path, which was the opposite direction of where you first came to his house from the forest. 

The journey felt shorter than you wanted it to be, and before long, the familiar sight of your house came into view. The windows were dark, a sign that your husband was thankfully still asleep. You stopped at the edge of your property, your heart pounding in your chest as you glanced back at the shadowy figure of Hongjoong standing in the distance.

With a final nod and a slight wave, you turned away and walked up to the door. You opened it as quietly as you could, slipping inside and closing it behind you with a soft click. The house was silent, and only the steady ticking of the clock on the wall could be heard. You held your breath, listening for any sign of movement from your husband.

Silence. Good.

Because silence was always better than his usual rage and violence. 

“This is a good night,” you murmured. You quietly moved to the window, trying to see if Hongjoong was still there.

One last time. I gotta see him just one last time. 

But unfortunately, your kind and pretty stranger was no longer there.

The trees seemed to slowly close in around you. 

The forest surrounding you felt alive, watching, waiting.

A shiver ran down your spine as the sound of rustling leaves echoed ominously through the forest.

Just three more steps. One. Two. Three-

“Y/N?”

“Dear God!”

The sudden movement caused the reason you were here today to dart deeper into the underbrush. “Benji!” you called out, frustration now evident in your frantic voice.

Hongjoong stepped closer. “Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you. What… are you doing here?”

You sighed. “I'm looking for a little cat. Met the little one last week, shortly before Django attacked me. He was gone afterwards. I've been coming here all week, but it's of no use. Last week he was so trusting, but now… it's so hard to even get close to him.”

The sun was piercing through the trees on this warm Friday evening, and you had to squint your eyes as you looked in the direction Benji ran away. 

“I can't see him anymore,” you said.

Hongjoong’s expression softened. “Do you want some help?” he asked. You nodded, shooting him an appreciative smile. “I’d really like that.”

The two of you moved cautiously, stepping lightly over the forest floor. The silence between you was punctuated only by the occasional crack of a twig or the rustle of leaves.

As you neared the spot where you last saw Benji, Hongjoong held up a hand, signalling for you to stop. He crouched down, peering into the thick bushes.

“There,” he whispered, pointing. “I see him.”

You followed his gaze and spotted the little cat, his eyes wide and alert as he watched you both from the shadows.

“Benji,” you called softly, your voice gentle. “It’s okay, buddy. We’re here to help you.”

Slowly, painstakingly, Benji inched closer, drawn by the sound of your voice. You took a tentative step forward, trying to maintain your balance on the uneven ground. Just as you were about to reach him, your foot slipped into a hidden hole in the forest floor. You stumbled, your ankle twisting painfully as you almost fell.

Behind you, Hongjoong reacted instantly, his strong hand grabbing your arm to steady you. You hissed in pain as his grip tightened around a particularly sore spot.

“Are you okay?” he asked, concern evident in his voice.

You nodded quickly, trying to brush it off. “Yeah, just twisted my ankle a bit.” You chuckled awkwardly. “It's quite funny, isn't it? I always get hurt when we meet.”

But Hongjoong didn’t let go. His eyes narrowed as he noticed the bruises on your arm, previously hidden by your sleeve. “Y/N… what happened?” he asked, his voice a mix of anger and concern.

You swallowed hard, looking away. “It’s nothing. Just an accident at home.”

He shook his head, his grip gentle but firm. “Y/N, don’t lie to me. Was this… your husband?”

You felt tears prickling at the corners of your eyes. “Hongjoong, please. Y-you know I can't talk about it.”

“I know,” he whispered, “But…” 

He didn't continue his sentence. Instead, his eyes found yours, and everything he couldn't say, every single, unspoken emotion you found there, hidden behind those kind, brown orbs. 

And you understood. You understood that if this man had the chance to change your situation, he would do it. Whatever it would take, and all for you. 

A married woman. Practically a stranger still, despite the intimate moment you shared.

In that very moment, you sinned.

And God was your only witness as you fell a little bit for a man that wasn't your husband.

“Meow.”

Benji’s soft meow brought you back to the present. You looked down to see the little cat rubbing against your leg, practically purring his heart out. You reached down, gently scooping the little Grey fur ball up into your arms.

Hongjoong watched you, his expression unreadable to you. “He's still so little. You sure his mother isn't nearby as well?” he asked.

You shook your head. “I've been here to get him every day and haven't seen any other cat here. He seems to be completely alone.”

“Alright then, let’s get him to my home first. We’ll figure something out then.”

You nodded. Without even mentioning, Hongjoong knew you couldn't take him to your own home. 

The path back seemed shorter, perhaps because you weren't alone anymore. Benji fidgeted a lot, but wasn't as much of a trouble as you originally thought. 

When you reached the edge of the forest, the sunlight was brighter, and you could hear the distant sounds of the town.

“I'm glad you don't have any close neighbours.”

“I'm also glad. Because if I did, I wouldn't be able to see you right now Y/N,” he said, and smiled. Oh, that goddamn smile. 

You're not quite sure what it meant, but you felt your heart skip a beat. It was something so beautiful only described in those ‘unholy’ books your mother forbade you to read, but ended up doing anyway. You felt like a young girl again, curious and desperate for love, seeking solace in men that weren't real, but oh so charming.

Men who couldn't hurt you. Couldn't touch any part of your body, only your pure heart.

Yeah, that's how Kim Hongjoong made you feel. With only a smile. 

You felt like you were flying, so free and happy and brave and young again. Like you could conquer the whole world together. 

But Kim Hongjoong wasn't yours. Because in no world could you ever become his.

Stepping foot into his shop was like entering another work, and even though you've already seen his gorgeous dresses, you still looked at them in awe. 

“One day,” you whispered. 

“If you want, you can try a dress on. No one will bother us since the store's closed today.”

You shivered. Hongjoong stood almost right behind you, his warmth radiating off his body.

The temptation to indulge in this small fantasy was strong, but you shook your head. “I couldn’t possibly,” you said, your voice barely above a whisper. “I don’t want to impose.”

“You wouldn’t be imposing at all,” Hongjoong replied, his tone gentle yet insistent. “Think of it as a gift. Besides, I could use some help around here.”

Your curiosity piqued and you turned to face him. “Help? With what?”

He gestured to the array of dresses on display. “I’ve been working on some new designs, but I don’t have a proper model to try them on. I use mannequins for display, but it’s not the same. I need someone to see how the dresses move and fit in real life. You can work for me in exchange for taking in Benji. Model my dresses, help me with fittings and adjustments. It’s a fair trade, don’t you think?”

“I'd like that,” you whispered, “it's just… these dresses are made for royalty, not for a woman like… like me, Hongjoong.”

He vehemently shook his head. “You underestimate yourself, Y/N. Just try one on, for me?”

You nodded slowly, and he selected a dress from the rack, a soft, flowing gown in a shade of deep emerald. You took it from him, feeling the weight and texture of the fabric, smooth and luxurious against your skin.

Hongjoong led you to a small changing area behind a curtain. You stepped behind it, your heart pounding. Carefully, you undressed and slipped into the gown. The fabric felt cool and comforting, draping over your body with an unexpected ease. You adjusted the dress, feeling its weight settle around you, and took a deep breath before stepping out.

Hongjoong's reaction was immediate and genuine. His eyes widened, a look of pure admiration spreading across his face. “Y/N,” he breathed, “you look… stunning.”

You blushed, feeling embarrassed yet also undeniably charmed. “I don’t know about that. It feels strange, like I’m pretending to be someone I’m not.”

“You’re not pretending,” he said softly, stepping closer. “This is you, Y/N. The real you. Sometimes a princess just needs the right dress to feel like one.”

You hesitated, still feeling unsure. “It’s just… I’m not used to this. I feel out of place.”

Hongjoong’s gaze was steady and reassuring, not once taking his eyes off of you. “You belong in this dress, Y/N. Trust me. Walk around a bit, feel the fabric, see how it moves with you.”

You took a tentative step, then another. The dress flowed around you, the fabric whispering against your skin. You turned to look at yourself in the mirror, and for the first time, you saw what Hongjoong saw – a woman who was strong, beautiful, and so, so much more.

“See?” he said softly, standing right behind you. “You’re perfect.”

Tears welled up in your eyes, and you fought hard to hold them back.

You're perfect.

Oh Hongjoong, you thought, I'm anything but. I'm lost, I'm weak, I'm scared. 

But instead, with his eyes on you, calm and beautiful and so honest looking, all you could mutter was, “Yes. Yes I am.”

He looked at you proudly.

And so, the hours went by, spent with you trying on several more gorgeous dresses and Hongjoong eagerly taking notes and making small changes here and there. 

With each dress you tried on, you felt a little more confident. The first few moments were always awkward, feeling out of place and almost guilty for indulging in this fantasy. But Hongjoong’s constant reassurance and the genuine admiration in his eyes slowly chipped away at your insecurities.

The emerald gown gave way to a sky-blue dress that shimmered in the light. Then a deep burgundy number that made your skin glow. Each dress was a work of art, and each time you emerged from behind the curtain, Hongjoong’s reaction was the same – pure, unadulterated admiration.

“You’re like a vision,” he murmured as you twirled in a pale pink gown. “These dresses come to life on you.”

By the time you tried on the final dress, a stunning midnight blue creation with delicate silver embroidery, you felt like a different person. The woman in the mirror was confident, elegant, and yes, perfect.

Like the princess from your book coming straight to life.

“You must be exhausted,” Hongjoong hummed, helping you step down the small podium, “go ahead and change while I fetch you something to drink, okay?”

“Okay.”

You slipped back behind the curtain. As you changed out of the midnight blue gown into your ordinary clothes, you felt the weight of reality slowly setting in again. 

Looking outside and seeing the sun slowly disappearing meant you head to return home.

Hongjoong returned with a glass of water and a soft smile. “Here you go,” he said, handing you the drink. “You did amazing today, Y/N. Thank you for helping me.”

You took the glass gratefully, feeling the cool water soothe your parched throat. “I'm glad I could be of help.”

“Alright, same day and time next week?” he asked.

Without wasting a second, you agreed. “Yes. I'll be there, Hongjoong.”

Wherever there was light, the lurking darkness was never far away, and you realised that pretty early on.

Even before Hongjoong stumbled into your life, you noticed something. Your husband wasn't coming home after getting off work, instead opting to spend his free time in the town's tavern or with his various affair partners.

And to be honest, you didn't mind.

Instead, you were happy about it. So so happy.

That is, until the townspeople started talking. Ruthlessly. And not about your abusive, alcoholic and cheating husband; no, about you - the ‘bad, sinning wife.’

The wife who couldn't be obedient enough. The wife who couldn't give him children. 

It was unbearable. Their words stung and hurt you deeply, but they were true.

…Right?

Your childhood and adolescence were spent learning about your future duties as a wife. Taking care of the house, obeying your husband without question, birthing his children and believing in God and his good deeds.

And you failed all these duties, so you deserved to be frowned upon. 

Even your own family thought so, too.

The only person who didn't was Kim Hongjoong, who was currently working on a purple gown you stood model for just a few minutes ago.

If he noticed how quiet you were today, he didn't mention it. 

“How does it look?” he asked, glancing up at you shyly, like your opinion truly mattered to him.

“It’s beautiful,” you replied, your voice barely above a whisper. The gown was stunning, but that was to be expected of him. But today, even his pretty dresses couldn't cheer you up.

He nodded, a faint smile touching his lips. “It's even prettier when you're wearing it, Y/N.”

You blushed previously, but only managed a small smile in return, though it didn’t reach your eyes. “Thank you, Hongjoong. I just… I’m not feeling very well today.”

Hongjoong set his needle and thread aside, his full attention now on you. “Do you want to talk about it?”

The genuine concern in his voice was almost your undoing. You took a shaky breath, trying to steady yourself, your finger nestling with the fabric of your shabby dress. “It’s nothing, really. Just… the usual gossip in town.”

His expression darkened slightly. “People can be cruel. You don’t deserve that.”

“Maybe I do,” you said quietly, looking away. “Maybe they’re right.”

“No,” Hongjoong said firmly, stepping closer. “They’re not right. You don’t deserve to be treated like this. You’re strong, and kind, and… you deserve so much more than what you’ve been given.”

A sob escaped your lips and you hid your face behind your hands, unable to face Hongjoong's eyes.

“H-how did you deal with this all alone? I can't… I don't even wanna leave my house anymore. The looks they give me, their words… It hurts so much, but I know they're right. I know that I-”

“What could you have possibly done wrong, Y/N?” Hongjoong cut you off, and for the first time since you've known him, he'd raised his voice, and you flinched, because anger could only ever mean one thing and soon his hands would-

His hands slowly took yours into his own, and instead of hurting you, they caressed you carefully as tears fell down your cheeks.

“I'm a bad wife, Hongjoong…”

He vehemently shook his head, his hands gripping your own tighter. “No, Y/N. You're not a bad wife. He is a bad husband.”

“Do you believe in God, Hongjoong?” you quietly asked.

He visibly tensed up, avoiding all eye contact. 

“It's okay,” you quickly reassured him, “I know in my religion it's a sin not believing, but since I'm also struggling… I really have no room to judge you for not believing in God. I also had my suspicions already, since you're one of the only people in town who doesn't attend Sunday mass.”

Hongjoong's shoulders relaxed a little, though he still seemed wary. "I don't know what I believe anymore," he admitted. "But I do know this: no god worth believing in would want you to suffer in a marriage like this.”

“I- please don't say that. God is good, he knows all, and if I am getting punished t-then that means that I deserve it! According to Ephesians 5:22-24, ‘Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body. Therefore, just as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything’.”

Hongjoong sighed, his expression a mix of both frustration and empathy. “Y/N, I understand that those verses have been drilled into you, but what about the rest of it? The parts that speak about love and respect?”

You looked down, your hands trembling slightly. “I’ve tried to love and respect him, but nothing I do is ever enough.”

“That’s because he should give you the same love and respect in return, yet he doesn't,” Hongjoong said softly. “A true marriage should be a partnership, where both people uplift and support each other. What you have isn’t that.”

“But what if God is just testing me to see if my faith in him is strong enough? And I'm clearly failing him because I'm weak and… and… oh God.” You started sobbing uncontrollably again.

Hongjoong wrapped his arms around you, holding you close as you cried. He spoke softly, his voice steady and reassuring. "Y/N, if God is testing you, it’s not to see you suffer but to help you find your strength. And strength doesn’t mean staying in a place where you are being hurt. Strength is knowing when to stand up for yourself and seek the life you deserve."

You clung to him like a child to its mother, your tears soaking his shirt. "I don’t know if I can do that. I’ve never known anything else.”

“You asked me if I believed in God,” he reluctantly began, “and… it's complicated. I do believe in something, like a higher power that none of us can truly grasp, but… I don't believe in the Christian God. Or any other religion's God for that matter. Because to me, believing in something shouldn't come with any rules. Yet all religions do it, and I just… I think that's wrong. They label anything that they aren't comfortable with immediately as bad. I learned that the hard way.”

You pulled back slightly, looking at him with curiosity through your tear-streaked eyes. "What do you mean?"

Hongjoong sighed, his eyes distant as he recalled. "I was… different growing up. I didn’t fit the stereotype that everyone expected. I was more interested in art and fashion than in the traditional roles laid out for men in our community. I grew up in a small religious city just like you and because of that, I faced a lot of judgement. I was labelled a sinner, a bad person, just like you are now. But what truly opened my eyes was when I met two men whom I quickly grew close with. Well… they were in love with each other, and the people from my town… they planned to kill them. By publicly executing them. That night, the three of us ran away, and I haven't been back since.”

“What I also wanna say,” he added before you could speak, “is that if you truly believe in the Christian God and it makes you happy you should never give up your faith. But Y/N… you're not happy, not with your religion and definitely not with your marriage.”

Deep down, you knew he was right. But that also meant that your whole life, your whole upbringing was nothing but a lie. Nothing but pure manipulation. 

And you weren't ready to admit that yet.

He held you for what felt like hours, humming soft melodies and caressing your back over and over again.

“I'm sorry,” you said, your words muffled in his shirt, “I'm sorry for not being able to choose the right path yet.”

“Oh, you silly woman.” he laughed and squeezed you tightly again, “don't you dare apologise for taking your time.”

“Okay,” you hiccuped, wiping your tears away, “I'm sorry for apologising- Oh God, I just did it again.”

Hongjoong chuckled softly, his laughter mixing with your own, lightening the heavy mood. 

After a while, he backed up, and you immediately started missing his arms around you. “Hey, I know you're not feeling too well today, but there's something I wanna do. Something for… for you.”

“For me?” you asked surprised.

“Yeah. You only stood model for dresses that needed nothing but slight retouching, but… I wanna do a dress specifically for you.”

“For me?” you repeated, disbelief colouring your voice. “You’d make a dress just for me?”

Hongjoong smiled warmly, nodding. “Yes, just for you. You're like my muse, Y/N. You give me so many ideas.”

Your heart swelled at his words, and you felt your cheeks flaring up. “I… I don’t know what to say.”

“Then don’t say anything,” Hongjoong replied gently. “Just let me do this for you.”

You hesitated, then nodded slowly, trusting this man completely. “Okay.”

Hongjoong’s face lit up with pure excitement. “Great! Come, I have some ideas already.”

He led you into one of the rooms behind the shop. You quickly saw this was the place where he worked, full of mannequins, fabrics and more. He quickly set to work, pulling out fabrics and sketching designs into a sketchbook. His enthusiasm was infectious, and for the first time in a long while, you felt a flicker of genuine happiness.

“Do you have any preferences?” Hongjoong asked, looking up from his sketches. “A colour you love, a style you’ve always wanted to try?”

You thought for a moment. “I’ve always loved blue,” you admitted. “It reminds me of the sky, the sea… freedom.”

Hongjoong’s smile widened. “Blue it is, then. I can already see you in it, it suits you.”

As Hongjoong started working, you watched him silently in awe. His hands moved with precision and grace, his focus unwavering. It was clear that this truly was his passion, and he poured his heart into every stitch.

Hours passed, but there was still much to do. The room was filled with the soothing sound of fabric rustling and the rhythmic click of scissors. Hongjoong occasionally asked for your opinion, and after a while, Benji joined too, placing himself onto your lap and purring so loudly it made Hongjoong lose focus several times.

When the sun started slowly disappearing, it meant the end of your weekly session. “We made good progress today,” Hongjoong said, smiling. “Let's continue next week.”

When you returned home that day, the smile Hongjoong put on your face still hadn't left your face, not even when you saw the mess in your house or your husband passed out on the couch, completely wasted. Instead, you quietly started cleaning, all your worries and problems elsewhere because at that very moment, all you could think of was a certain man named Kim Hongjoong. 

And how you wished that, in another world, he could be your husband instead.

The next weeks seemed to drag on endlessly, each and every day filled with the same monotonous routine. Your husband’s drinking worsened, and the church, which had once been your one and only safe space, was slowly turning into a place you started to resent more and more each day, because every pair that laid its eyes on you was not viewing you with any kindness, but judgement, and the shame, the utter humiliation you felt was steadily becoming too much to handle. Yet, you reminded yourself that you did have something to look forward to: seeing Hongjoong once a week.

Every session with Hongjoong was a reprieve from the relentless condemnation you faced in the town. His shop became your sanctuary, a place where you could be yourself without fear of judgement. He was always there with a warm smile and a listening ear, making you feel valued and understood in a way you hadn't felt in years.

In a way not even family or close friends could.

One afternoon, as you entered his shop, you were greeted by Hongjoong slumped over his desk, sound asleep with both fabric and needles still in his hands.

You quietly walked over, careful not to startle him. Gently, you took the fabric and needles from his hands, setting them aside. You noticed dark circles under his eyes and the way his clothes hung loosely on his frame, signs of the toll his hard work and sleepless nights were taking on him.

Behind you, Benji made a sound, jumping on the table and staring at his owner.

“Your daddy is a little foolish for overworking himself, am I right baby?” you said, quietly chuckling as Benji laid his head in your outstretched hand. He didn't pay his owner any mind.

Hongjoong stirred at the sound of your voice, blinking awake. When he saw you, a sheepish smile tugged at his lips. “Y/N, I'm sorry. I must have dozed off.”

“Don't apologise,” you replied softly, still occupied with petting Benji. “You need to take better care of yourself, Joongie. You've been working too hard.”

He blushed at the nickname you called him, rubbing his eyes and sitting up. “I just… wanted everything to be perfect for you.”

“Perfection can wait,” you said gently. “Your health can't.”

He nodded, looking genuinely touched by your concern. “I'll try to rest more. I promise.”

Benji meowed softly, seemingly agreeing with you, and you couldn't help but laugh. “Even Benji thinks so.”

“I'm pretty sure Benji would agree to everything his mommy would say, he practically worships the ground you walk on,” Hongjoong chuckled, reaching out to scratch the needy cat behind the ears. At your insistent gaze, he reluctantly agreed: “Alright, alright. I'll take it easy.”

“Good,” you said, smiling. “Now, how about some tea? It looks like you could use a break.”

Hongjoong nodded appreciatively. “That sounds wonderful.”

You made your way to the small kitchenette in the back of the shop, preparing two cups of tea. As the water boiled, you glanced back at Hongjoong, who was now petting Benji and looking more relaxed. It warmed your heart to see him taking a moment for himself.

When the tea was ready, you brought the cups over to the table and handed one to Hongjoong. He took a sip, closing his eyes as he savoured the warmth. “Thank you, Y/N. This is just what I needed.”

“You do so much for me, let me tend to you once in a while too,” you said.

You both sat in comfortable silence for a while, respectively sipping your tea. After a few moments, Hongjoong broke the silence. “I've been thinking a lot lately,” he began, his voice tentative. “About what you said last time, about the church and how they've been treating you.”

You looked up from your tea, meeting his eyes. “What about it?”

“I've seen how much it's been weighing on you, and it breaks my heart,” he said, his gaze sincere. “But as a mere villager, my hands are bound, although I wish it would be different. Do you think… Do you think it would help if I would accompany you to Sunday mass? Of course separately, but maybe… maybe that could be of help to you.”

Your heart thudded in your chest, the sound almost deafening in the quiet of the room. His offer sent waves of emotions crashing through you.

No one had ever been this kind, this lovely to you, especially a man.

You stared at him, momentarily speechless, the weight of his words settling over you like a warm, comforting blanket. He wanted to help you, to stand by you in a place that had become a source of pain and humiliation, for the both of you. He cared enough to offer a hand in a situation he knew he had no control over, and the realisation hit you like a bolt of lightning.

You glanced down at your cup, the steam rising in delicate tendrils, and tried to steady your breathing. You had always known that Hongjoong was different, that he was shunned for being different, and that he had a kindness and understanding that was rare in this judgmental town. But now, as you sat there with him, you also realised something else: your feelings for him ran deeper than you had allowed yourself to acknowledge.

Million thoughts swirled in your mind. How could you feel this way about him when you were still bound to a man who had long since stopped caring for you? Your duty as a wife was to be loyal to your husband till death do you apart, and you failed. Miserably. Was it fair to Hongjoong, who had done nothing but support and uplift you, to be dragged into your complicated, painful life? 

No. He deserved a woman who could give him everything he wanted, and that definitely wasn't you. You couldn't even give him your hand in marriage.

And yet, despite the confusion and the guilt, there was an undeniable truth you couldn't ignore: you were falling for him. 

He was the prince you long had hoped you'd find, but you weren't his princess.

You thought back to all the times he had been there for you, his gentle words and warm smiles, the way he listened to you without judgement, making you feel seen and heard. His dedication to his craft, his passion for creating beauty in a world that often seemed devoid of it, mirrored the passion he had for helping you and any living being he encountered. It was this combination of compassion and creativity, of understanding and resilience, that drew you to him like a moth to a flame.

Tears welled up in your eyes as you looked back at him, his concerned expression making your heart ache. 

He had no idea what was going on inside your head, and in this very moment you made a promise to yourself: the feelings you harboured for this beautiful, perfect man would be kept a secret forever. You would take them with you to your very death.

You took a deep breath, trying to gather your thoughts. “Hongjoong,” you began, your voice trembling, “I... I don't know what to say. Your offer means the world to me. Truly.”

“But?” he asked, knowing you weren't quite done talking yet.

“I have to decline. I'm not gonna stand by and watch you going into a church you clearly don't want to go to. There's no reason for you to do so,” you said firmly.

“But there is a reason,” he whispered, his fingers slowly drawing patterns on the palm of your hand. You had to take your eyes off him. “You. You are the reason.”

Your heart skipped a beat, and the room seemed to blur around you as his words echoed in your mind. You. You are the reason. How could someone so selfless, so kind, want to sacrifice his comfort for yours? The weight of his sincerity bore down on you, making it difficult to breathe. You wanted to believe that you could accept his offer, lean on him without reservation, but the reality of your situation loomed large and impossible to ignore.

Tears welled up in your eyes again, threatening to spill over. You couldn’t let him do this. You couldn’t let him tie himself to your miseries and your complicated life. He deserved so much more.

But knowing Kim Hongjoong, he wouldn't accept no for an answer, and so you said quietly, “I'll think about it.”

He smiled brightly at you, his hand finding yours and squeezing it tightly. Your wedding ring was an uncomfortable reminder of the future this bond of yours would hold in the future.

Suddenly, Hongjoong's eyes lit up with a familiar spark of excitement. “I think it's time for you to see it,” he said, standing up with renewed energy. 

“See what? The dress?! You're already finished?!”

Instead of answering, he led you to the back of the shop, where a tall, covered mannequin stood. With a dramatic flourish, he pulled away the cloth, revealing a dress so exquisite it took your breath away.

The gown was a deep, saturated blue that shimmered like the ocean under a sky full of shining stars. The bodice was intricately embroidered with silver thread, forming delicate patterns of stars and swirling vines. The neckline was elegant and modest, dipping just enough to be flattering without being revealing. The sleeves were long and fitted, ending in graceful points that brushed against the tip of your hands, embroidered with the same silver designs that already adorned the bodice.

The skirt flowed from the waist in cascading layers of silk and tulle, creating a voluminous yet ethereal effect. Each layer was edged with even more silver embroidery. The back of the dress featured a row of tiny, delicate buttons that ran from the nape of the neck to the small of the back, adding a touch of old-world charm.

You gasped, unable to fathom what you were seeing. “Hongjoong, it’s... it’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen.”

His entire being seemed to relax as a delicate reddish colour adorned his cheeks. “Thank God you like it, it would've been worthless if not.”

Tears pricked at the corners of your eyes as you reached out to touch the dress, your fingers trembling slightly. “Thank you, Joongie. I don’t know what to say.”

He smiled gently. “How about trying it on? I’d love to see you in it - No, I need to see you in it.”

You nodded, your heart pounding with a mix of excitement and nervousness. Hongjoong carefully lifted the gown from the mannequin and handed it to you. You stepped behind the changing screen, the luxurious fabric feeling cool and smooth against your skin.

As you tried to change into the gown, you realised just how intricate it truly was. The buttons down the back were nearly impossible to fasten on your own, and the delicate fabric seemed to slip through your fingers. You struggled with the fastenings, your frustration obvious as you fidgeted with each and every button like a little child.

“Hongjoong,” you called out softly, your voice trembling. “I think I might need some help.”

He was at your side in an instant, sending your heart into a frenzy. 

So close.

Too close? 

No, not close enough.

“Of course, let me help you.” His fingers moved carefully over the buttons, his touch sending shivers down your spine. You couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of intimacy as he worked, his hands warm and steady against your back.

When the last button was fastened, he stepped back, his eyes wide with admiration. “Y/N, you look... absolutely stunning.”

You stepped out from behind the screen, feeling like you had stepped into a fairy tale. The dress fit perfectly, accentuating your figure perfectly and complimenting every unique feature of yours. You twirled slightly, the skirt flowing around you like a dream.

Not once did Hongjoong’s eyes leave you. “It’s perfect,” he murmured. “You’re perfect.”

Your blush deepened as you caught sight of yourself in the mirror. The dress was everything you had ever dreamed of and more.

As you moved, you felt the cool brush of the fabric against your bare skin, a sensation that made you acutely aware of your body in a way you hadn’t felt in years. Just seconds before, Hongjoong’s hands had lingered on your back, and the memory of his touch sent a jolt of both pleasure and guilt through you. The touch of a man, one who truly cared for you, was something you hadn’t realised how much you really had craved until now. 

“I feel like a princess,” you whispered. You didn't notice a tear streaming down your check until Hongjoong carefully cupped your face and wiped it away. 

“Would the princess like to dance with me?” he sheepishly asked, sending a playful wink your way that made you both laugh and blush.

You managed a smile through your tears. “Yes, I would love that.”

Hongjoong’s eyes sparkled with joy as he extended his hand to you. You placed your hand in his, feeling the warmth of his skin against yours. He led you to the centre of the room, where he gently placed his other hand on your waist, the contact sending a shiver down your spine.

For a moment, you both stood there, simply enjoying the shared closeness. Then, slowly, he began to guide you in a swift motion, your movements mirroring each other with an ease that felt almost magical.

The dress flowed around you as you twirled. Hongjoong's eyes never once left yours, his gaze filled with a mixture of undying bliss and something deeper, something you were almost afraid to name.

“My husband never danced with me, not even on our wedding day,” you said.

Hongjoong’s expression softened, his grip on your hand tightening slightly as he led you in another gentle turn. “He doesn’t know what he’s missing,” he said quietly, his voice filled with a tenderness that made your heart ache.

You looked up at him, trying to hold back the tears that threatened to spill. “Hongjoong, I…”

He shook his head slightly, stopping your words with a gentle smile. “You don’t have to say anything, Y/N. Just… let’s enjoy this moment. Let’s pretend, even if it’s just for a little while, that the rest of the world doesn’t exist.”

You nodded, your heart swelling with emotion as you followed his lead, the two of you moving together in perfect harmony. In his arms, the weight of your troubles seemed to lift, if only for a brief moment. The dress, the dance, the soft glow of the afternoon light filtering through the shop’s windows - it all felt like a scene from your favourite romance books.

You and Hongjoong were lost in the moment, the world around you fading into the background as you danced together. His hand on your waist, the warmth of his touch, the way his eyes never left yours - it was all so perfect, so right, like nothing else in your entire life.

Just as Hongjoong spun you gracefully, a voice shattered your beautiful moment. “Well, what do we have here?”

You both froze, turning to see an elderly woman standing in the doorway, her sharp eyes fixed on you. You didn’t recognize her, but there was an unmistakable air of authority surrounding her. Hongjoong stiffened beside you, his hand dropping from your waist as he quickly took a step back.

“Mrs. Lee,” he said, his voice stern but polite. “What brings you here?”

Mrs. Lee’s eyes narrowed as she took in the scene, her gaze lingering on your flushed cheeks and the way you were anxiously clenching the skirt of the beautiful dress. “I’ve been looking for you, Hongjoong. We need to talk about my daughter.”

Your heart sank, and a wave of terror washed over you. You quickly stepped away from Hongjoong, trying to compose yourself.

“I… I should go,” you stammered, avoiding Mrs. Lee’s piercing gaze. “Thank you for everything, Hongjoong.”

Hongjoong reached out, his hand gently touching your arm. “Y/N, wait-”

Mrs. Lee’s voice cut through the tension. “Hongjoong, I’ve been very patient with you. My daughter, Sooyeon, is a good match for you, and it’s time you stop dilly-dallying and make a decision.”

Hongjoong’s jaw tightened, but he kept his tone measured. “Mrs. Lee, I’ve told you before, I’m not ready for marriage.”

Mrs. Lee scoffed, her eyes flicking to you with clear disdain. “Not ready for marriage, yet you have time for… this?” She gestured between the two of you, her meaning unmistakable.

You felt a flush of shame and panic. “This isn’t what it looks like. I'm a married woman,” you began, but Mrs. Lee cut you off with a dismissive wave of her hand.

“Save your breath, young lady. I know exactly what this is. And believe me, the town and your husband will hear about it!”

The threat hung heavy in the air, and you could see the worry etched on Hongjoong’s face. You almost fainted at the panic that rushed over you. He stepped forward, placing himself slightly between you and Mrs. Lee. “There’s no need for threats, Mrs. Lee. Y/N and I were just… discussing some alterations for her dress.”

Mrs. Lee raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed. “Discussing alterations, were you? In each other’s arms?”

Hongjoong opened his mouth to respond, but you couldn’t bear it any longer. “Please, Mrs. Lee,” you pleaded, your voice trembling. “Don’t tell anyone. It’s not what you think.”

I don't wanna die. 

I don't wanna die.

She looked at you, her lips forming into a cold smile. “I’ll keep this quiet - for now. But only if Hongjoong agrees to meet with my daughter. Alone.”

Hongjoong’s eyes widened in disbelief. “You can’t be serious.”

“Oh, I’m very serious,” Mrs. Lee replied, her tone leaving no room for argument. “Think about it, Hongjoong. Both your reputation is on the line here.”

The room fell silent, the weight of the ultimatum pressing down on all three of you. Finally, Hongjoong sighed, his shoulders slumping in defeat. “Fine. I’ll meet with Sooyeon.”

Mrs. Lee’s smile was triumphant. “Good. I’ll expect you at my house tomorrow evening.”

With that, she turned and left the shop, leaving you and Hongjoong standing in shocked silence. You could feel the tears welling up, the reality of the situation crashing down around you.

“I’m so sorry,” you whispered, your voice barely audible.

Hongjoong shook his head, his eyes filled with a mixture of frustration and sadness. “It’s not your fault, Y/N. None of this is.”

You wanted to believe him, but the guilt and fear were overwhelming. “I should go,” you said.

Hongjoong tried to stop you, but you rushed behind the curtain and hastily took the dress off. Finally, in your normal clothes again, Hongjoong tried to get ahold of you, but you took off in such a hurry he couldn't even open his mouth and practically sprinted out the open door.

“Y/N, wait,” he called after you, but you were already out the door, the tears streaming down your face. As you hurried home, you could only hope that Mrs. Lee would keep her word, because if not, there was a real possibility you would be dead real soon.

And the man you loved as well.

Your family's stall at the weekly market was as busy as ever. The familiar hustle and bustle of vendors calling out their wares and customers bartering for the best deals filled the air. You tried to focus on helping your mother arrange the vegetables, but your mind kept drifting away. 

“Y/N, are you alright?” your mother asked, her brow furrowed with concern as she noticed your distracted state.

You forced a smile. “Yes, mama. Just tired, I guess.”

She took off her gloves and took your face into her callused hands. Your body immediately relaxed at your mother's touch, while your mind was spiralling. 

“I should've never let your father marry you off to this douchebag,” she tearfully exclaimed.

Ah. There it was. The lies.

You knew your mother had always harboured guilt about your marriage, but it wasn't fair for her to carry the blame. It was a decision made by your father, and you had gone along with it, hoping for the best. But the weight of her words only added to the turmoil inside you. Her attempts at comfort now seemed hollow, given how often she had turned a blind eye to your suffering.

“It's not your fault, Mama,” you said gently, placing your hand over hers. “You couldn't have known how things would turn out.”

She sighed, wiping a tear from her cheek. “I just want you to be happy, Y/N. You deserve so much more than this.”

Her words stung. Where was this concern when you needed it most? When your cries for help went unheard?

While your father and older sisters didn't even pretend to care, your mother did - in a way. Yet never enough to actually help.

Maybe blaming her was too much. You knew that without your father's approval she couldn't do anything. After all, she was just a woman like you, trapped in a time where all you could do was listen and obey the men in your lives.

Yet it hurt. So much. Sometimes, all you wanted was to return to better times. Back in your mother's lap, laughing with your sisters while she told stories about love and worlds too perfect for your understanding. 

You were the last unmarried child remaining in your parents house. All your sisters were married off to good, somewhat wealthy husbands, either already with child and or waiting to be blessed with the fruit of life. All was well, until your father's business began to lose some serious money. He grew desperate to maintain the family's status, and in his desperation, he had accepted the first marriage proposal that came your way - no matter the man behind it. 

While all your sisters were given away to live in good, wealthy living households like the one you grew up in, your husband was working in a factory, barely making enough to support himself, yet alone a wife and future offspring. 

On top of that, he didn't even hide the fact how he was treating you. Your family knew. The town knew. Yet no one really cared, because you were now nothing but a poor, lowly woman.

And so, you became an outcast in your own family. You were the sister who had married below her status, the daughter who had brought shame to the family name. Your father, once proud and authoritative, could hardly look at you without a glimmer of disappointment in his eyes. Your sisters, though affectionate in public, whispered behind your back, their words filled with pity and disdain.

Your mother's concern, when it did come, was always in private. She would hold you and cry, promising that she had tried to convince your father to wait for a better match, that she had tried fighting for you. But where was she when you needed her most? When you had begged her to intervene, to stop the marriage, she had been silent. When you had showed up late at night with wounds serious enough to kill, she sent you right back home. And now, her tears felt like salt in an old, festering wound.

But while your mother had her faults, she was really the only family member you could really confide in. So, you took a deep, steady breath and turned to her with a determined expression. “Mom, there's something I need to tell you. Siwoo… Siwoo's-”

“Y/N,” she cut you off, “Don't slander your husband's name in front of me.”

“Mom, please-”

“Enough! We're in public!” she hissed, glancing around nervously.

You bit your lip, the words dying in your throat. The market's noise seemed to close in around you, a suffocating reminder of the ever-watchful eyes of the townspeople. You had learned long ago that your cries for help would only fall on deaf ears or, worse, invite further scrutiny and gossip.

So you swallowed your pain and simply nodded. “Yes, Mama. I'm sorry.”

She looked at you, her eyes filled with a mixture of regret and helplessness. “Let's finish up here. We'll talk later at home. Could you deliver the usual supplies to Mrs. Goo? You know the old lady can't walk anymore, but she pays us well. Your sister's too busy with the children to do it herself.”

You nodded again, grateful for the distraction. As you gathered the supplies and made your way through the busy market, you tried to steady your nerves. The fresh air and distance from the stall helped clear your mind a bit, but your conversation with your mother still pressed down on you.

She didn't even try to listen to you.

Navigating the crowded paths, you marvel at the sights and sounds of the market: the colourful array of various products, the lively chatter of people, the smell of freshly baked bread. It was a small reprieve from everything, yet it didn't keep your mind occupied for long. 

Turning a corner, you nearly bumped into Hongjoong, who was accompanied by Mrs. Lee's daughter, Sooyeon. The first thing you noticed was how awkward he seemed with her, keeling the woman at arms length, a stark contrast to how natural and at ease he was when he was with you.

“I'm really bad with women,” he said, clearly embarrassed. 

You chuckled. “I don't believe you. You act so natural and nonchalant when you're with me! Does that mean I'm not a real woman in your eyes? you teasingly asked.

His expression turned serious. “Of course I see you as a woman. But… everything feels easy when it comes to you.”

“Hongjoong!” you exclaimed, surprised.

You hadn't seen each other for a month now, but if he had something to say about you avoiding him, he didn't speak on it.

His eyes lit up at the sight of you, but his smile was somewhat strained. “Y/N, it's good to see you.”

Sooyeon glanced between the two of you, a curious look on her face. “Hello, Y/N. How are you?” she asked, her tone polite but detached.

“I'm well, thank you. Just running some errands for my mother,” you replied, trying to keep your tone light.

There was a brief, uncomfortable silence. You could sense the tension in Hongjoong's stance, the way he seemed almost relieved to see you yet burdened by Sooyeon's presence.

“Oh, look at those flowers! They’re so pretty!” Sooyeon suddenly exclaimed, her attention captured by a nearby stall. She moved toward the vibrant display, leaving you and Hongjoong a few moments alone.

Hongjoong let out a breath, his shoulders relaxing slightly. “Y/N, I’ve missed seeing-”

Your whole demeanour changed. Now, you thought, now's the only chance I got.

“Joong, I need your help,” you urgently whispered.

He glanced over at Sooyeon, ensuring she was still distracted. “How can I?...”

You clasped his hands with all the strength left in you. “He's gonna kill me. Tonight. H-he… he bought a gun. He's going to kill me and there's nothing I can do!” you sobbed.

Hongjoong's eyes widened in alarm, and he squeezed your hands reassuringly. “Y/N, we have to get you out of there. Do you have anywhere safe to go?”

You shook your head, panic making your thoughts race. “No, I have nowhere. I can't go back to my parents. They won't help.”

He looked around, his mind clearly racing as well. “We’ll figure something out. But first, you need to stay calm. We don’t want to draw any attention.”

“Please, Hongjoong, I’m so scared,” you whispered, your voice breaking.

He nodded firmly. “I know, but you’re not alone. I won’t let anything happen to you, I promise.”

Sooyeon returned, holding a bouquet of vibrant flowers. “Aren’t these lovely?” she asked, oblivious to the tension.

Oblivious to the fact that in just a few hours, you would be dead. Literally gone. Irradiaticated from the world.

He forced a smile. “They are, Sooyeon.”

You took a step back, the moment of closeness slipping away. “I should get going. Take care, Hongjoong. And you too, Soo Yeon.”

“Goodbye, Y/N,” Hongjoong said, his eyes lingering on you for a moment longer.

I'll be coming to your house later, his eyes said.

And I'll be waiting for you, Kim Hongjoong, you answered, before turning around and walking away.

You wondered if you would ever see the man you loved again. Because if he wasn't fast enough, all he would see was your dead body on the cold floor.

The clock you'd usually hear ticking in the background now lay broken on the floor, just like everything else in this godforsaken home.

In his rage this morning, Siwoo had left nothing, beating your home and your body until nothing but a mess was left behind.

Quietly, you sat in the corner of the room, your breath shallow and uneven. You waited.

And while you did, you asked yourself one last question: how would you face your death?

Would you face it fiercely, staring it directly in the eye, brave and unwavering? The thought appealed to you, the idea of going down with defiance and dignity. But the truth was, you didn't feel brave. You felt small and terrified, a helpless pawn in a cruel game, played by a man who created his own evil rules. The bruises on your body, the scars on your soul, they only told a story of survival, not of courage.

Would you cry, beg for mercy while already knowing that there was nothing saving you from this cruel fate? Your tears had dried up long ago, replaced by a numbing acceptance. You had begged before, pleaded for mercy in both whispers and screams, but Siwoo's cruelty knew no bounds. He thrived on your pain, feeding on your despair. You learned that begging would only fuel his sadistic pleasure.

Or would you smile and take its hand, leaving this world knowing that this life was all you had, that there was no use grieving it no more? This life, filled with suffering and loss, had hardly been spent well. But in the midst of all the darkness, there were fleeting moments of light - memories of laughter with your sisters, the warmth of your mother's embrace, the gentle kindness of Hongjoong. Perhaps those moments were enough to justify a smile, a final act of defiance against a life that had sought to break you.

There was no time for an answer. The door creaked open, and Siwoo stepped in, his eyes cold and merciless. 

You could almost feel death’s cold breath on your neck with his arrival. 

He approached slowly, savouring the fear he thought he saw in your eyes. "Ready for round two?" he sneered, raising a hand to strike you again.

But something inside you snapped. Perhaps it was the realisation that you had nothing left to lose, or perhaps it was the flicker of defiance that had always burned within you, hidden beneath layers of pain and submission. As his hand came down, you moved.

With a speed and strength born of desperation, you grabbed the broken clock from the floor and swung it at him. The sound of shattering glass and metal was followed by his roar of pain as the clock connected with his head. He stumbled back, blood streaming down his face, his eyes wide with shock.

“You bitch!” he screamed, lunging at you. But you were ready. You dodged his attack and grabbed a shard of broken glass from the floor. The sharp edge bit into your palm, but you didn't care. You had only one thought: survival.

As he came at you again, you thrust the glass into his side. He howled in agony, doubling over. You didn't stop. You couldn't stop. You pulled the glass out and stabbed him again, and again, each thrust fueled by years of pent-up fear, anger, and pain.

He fell to the floor, clutching at his wounds, his breath coming in ragged gasps. You stood over him, your chest heaving, blood dripping from your hands. For a moment, you simply watched him, your heart pounding in your ears.

“Y/N,” he rasped, his voice weak and broken. “Please…”

But there was no mercy left in you. You raised the glass one final time and- 

A hand grabbed yours. You immediately knew it wasn't your husband's, because he would never touch you like this, all soft and careful.

“Y/N,” the voice said, “Don't do it. Don't ever be like him.”

He gently pried the glass shard from your hand, his touch tender but firm. You fell into his arms, the weight of everything crashing down on you at once. His embrace was warm and comforting, a stark contrast to the violence you had just endured. He held you close, murmuring soothing words you couldn't quite make out over the sound of your own sobs.

“It's okay, it's over,” he whispered, his hand stroking your hair. “I'm here now.”

You clung to him, your tears soaking into his shirt. For the first time in what felt like forever, you felt a glimmer of hope. Hongjoong was here. Your Hongjoong was here. You weren't alone anymore.

It could've been the end, but the moment was short-lived. 

Siwoo, with a last surge of strength, lunged at you both. His fist connected with Hongjoong's face, sending him sprawling to the floor. His punches were relentless, each blow harder than the last, and you screamed for him to stop. But he wouldn't, he couldn't. He was beyond reason, lost in his own madness. Siwoo turned to you, his eyes blazing with fury. He grabbed you by the hair, yanking you to your feet.

“You think you can get away with this?” he snarled. “You're nothing but a woman, Y/N. My woman! I can do whatever I want with you!”

You struggled relentlessly against his grip, the pain in your scalp sharp and blinding. Out of the corner of your eye, you saw Hongjoong trying to get up, blood trickling from his nose. Siwoon turned his attention towards your lover.

In that split second, you remembered the gun. The one Siwoo had bought. It was in the bedroom, just a few steps away. You had to get to it. You had to end this.

With a surge of adrenaline, you twisted in Siwoo's grasp, breaking free. You stumbled towards the bedroom, your heart pounding in your chest. You could hear Siwoo's footsteps behind you, his curses filling the air.

You burst into the bedroom and saw the gun on the nightstand. Your hands trembled as you grabbed it, turning just in time to see Siwoo barreling towards you, yanking Hongjoong with him. You raised the gun, your finger now laying directly on the trigger.

“Get away from him!” you screamed, your voice shaking.

Siwoo paused, a twisted grin spreading across his face. “You think you can scare me with that?”

Your hands steadied, and you took a deep breath. You locked eyes with your man for a second. “You're right, Hongjoong. I'm not like him. I'm worse.”

The first shot rang out, deafening in the small room. Siwoo's eyes widened in shock as the bullet hit him. You didn't stop. You couldn't. You fired again, and again, each shot a release of years of pain and fear and rage.

Siwoo collapsed to the floor, his body twitching one last time, blood pooling around him. You stood over him, the gun still in your hands, your breath coming in ragged gasps.

He was dead. You dropped the gun and turned to Hongjoong, who was struggling to sit up. You rushed to his side, cradling his face in your hands.

“Are you okay?” you whispered, tears streaming down your face.

He nodded weakly, his eyes filled with pain but also relief. “I am. But you aren't.”

It wasn't a question, yet you shook your head. You laughed, and Hongjoong looked at you like you were crazy. Maybe you were. 

“I've never felt this good,” you whispered, “because now I can do this.”

Careful to not hurt him further, you took his face into your hands. He was all bloody, but nonetheless beautiful.

And then, you pressed your lips onto his, desperate and hungry and so, so much more.

Hongjoong responded, his arms wrapping around you despite the pain. He held you close, pouring all his love and reassurance into the kiss. When you finally pulled back, you rested your forehead against his, both of you breathing heavily.

But as the adrenaline faded, reality started to set in. The room was a mess, the evidence of the struggle all around you. The sight of Siwoo's lifeless body, the blood on the floor, and the gun still warm in your hand triggered a rising panic within you.

You started to hyperventilate, your breath coming in shallow, rapid gasps. “What have I done? Hongjoong, what have I done?” you whispered, your voice trembling.

Hongjoong cupped your face in his hands, trying to calm you down. “Y/N, look at me. Focus on me. We need to think clearly.”

But it was too late. The full weight of what had just happened crashed down on you. You screamed, a raw, primal sound that echoed through the house. You fell to the floor, clutching your head, rocking back and forth as the horror of the situation consumed you.

Hongjoong knelt beside you, trying to soothe you, but his own panic was beginning to surface. “Y/N, please, we need to stay calm. We need to make a plan.”

His words barely registered through the fog that clouded your brain. Your cries grew louder, more desperate, as you struggled to comprehend the violence you had just unleashed.

“My angel, my love”, he pleaded with you, “listen to me. You have to listen to what I-”

In the distance, you both heard the sound of approaching footsteps and voices. Many approaching footsteps and noises. The shots had already alerted the people, and they were coming to investigate. The panic in Hongjoong's eyes matched your own as he realised the danger you were in.

“Y/N, listen to me,” he said urgently, grabbing your shoulders and shaking you lightly to get your attention. “We don't have much time. They're coming.”

Through your tears, you managed to focus on him. “What do we do, Hongjoong? What do we do?!”

His mind raced as he formulated a plan. It was desperate and dangerous, but it was the only way he could think to protect you. He picked up the gun and looked at you with a pained expression. “Y/N, I need you to trust me. Do you trust me?”

You nodded without hesitation. “I-i do, Joongie. Of course I do! But don't you dare try to endang-”

Before you could protest further, he aimed the gun right at your leg and pulled the trigger. The pain was immediate and excruciating, a burning agony that shot through your body. You screamed, collapsing to the floor, clutching your wounded leg.

Just a moment later, numerous people burst through the door, their eyes widening at the violent scene before them. Siwoo's body on the floor, you bleeding and crying, and Hongjoong holding the gun.

“What have you done?” you cried out, not even realising this sent off a completely wrong message to all the surrounding people. 

What you meant was why, why would he ever sacrifice himself like that.

Why?

Why? 

But all the mob heard was you screaming in anger at the man who just supposedly killed your husband, and now tried to shoot you.

Why, you wanted to scream. At whom you weren't too sure; at the universe, at God, at Hongjoong himself.

And as the angry mob launched at him, as multiple people were surrounding you and the lifeless corpse of your former husband, all you could think about was how not one, but two men lost their lives today.

Your abuser, and your lover.

yoohyeon had been standing in front of her closet for at LEAST an hour, trying on outfits and making a mess of her room, as she tried her absolute best not to have a meltdown.

“this? no, too casual,” yoohyeon whined to herself, dropping another set of clothes to the floor. she was this close to just, flopping onto the floor and kicking her legs like a child, having a tantrum.

it wasn’t like she hadn't seen you in different situations before, but this was different — this was a fucking date. yoohyeon was head over heels for you.

you both had known each other for ages now, ever since you both ended up in the same class in the first year of high school. things happened, and suddenly, it was like you had a conjoined twin, which was yoohyeon.

you two stuck together most of the time, even your parents and hers were well acquainted at that point. and she just.. kind of fell for you. she wouldn’t be able to explain it even if she could get her thoughts in order for once in her life. you also just had a special power, to reduce her to a melting, blushing mess by just, well, existing.

she just wanted to impress you so bad, even though knowing you, yoohyeon knew you would be happy if she turned up in just a hoodie and sweatpants. but you deserved more than half-assery, in her own words. 

“ah, fuck, i’m going to be late. that’s even worse than me looking awful while i meet them,” yoohyeon monologued to herself as she got to cleaning her room and fishing out something that would make her look presentable. 

“this will do,” she mumbled, less than pleased by the mediocre outfit that she had paired together in a rush. yoohyeon hurriedly tugged on the long sleeved black crop top, and a black high waisted skirt, that reached down to the middle of her thighs. a squeak escaped her lips as she stumbled over, her phone alarm going off to signal to her that she only had five more minutes.

“okay, okay, ugh, fuck, accesories,” yoohyeon said, successfully buttoning up her skirt as she scrambled over to her drawer, picking out a bracelet (specifically, the matching bracelet you had bought her years before) as well as some hairties in case you needed it.

she moved over to grab her small backpack, dumping some things into it and grabbing her phone, rushing downstairs to grab some socks to pull on and a pair of sneakers. the doorbell rang, making her pause for a moment as she panicked, before she shook her head. “get it together, yoohyeon!” she scolded herself internally. 

“yooh, are you ready?” yoohyeon could hear you call out, and she replied with a ‘yeah’, her voice almost cracking.

yoohyeon groaned softly, stretching her legs slightly as she wobbled over to the door, opening it quickly. 

there you were, looking all cute in your casual outfit, lips glossy from the lip gloss that you had put on and a pretty shade of pink on your cheeks. oh, how she just wanted to kiss you right there and then. 

“hey. you look cute,” you mumbled, making yoohyeon’s ears turn red. it was safe to say that you liked her outfit, and her face of slight shock and happiness. 

“aha, no, you look cuter,” yoohyeon replied, trying to sound more confident, still recovering from her mini panic session as you complimented her. “shall we, ahem, go now?” she said, shuffling on the spot slightly as she looked over at you, a small grin on her lips.

he was studying overseas, having gotten a scholarship for english literature and your timezones were vastly different. it was either that you would stay up late to talk to him, or he would have to, but you were willing to stay up late for him. 

your legs kicked against the bed impatiently, getting up slightly to check your phone again, before you jumped. your phone rang loudly with your ringtone, seonghwa's profile picture showing up on the screen. 

you squeaked loudly from happiness, your heart pumping quickly from the adrenaline as you accepted the call.

"finally! i missed you," your eyes locked onto his figure on the phone screen, though it was angled downwards, so that you could only see from below his chin. despite that, you didn't care, as long as he was there with you. you grinned almost stupidly, a little giddy from getting to see him and talk to him.

"i missed you too, i'm sorry for calling you so late, the bus came late," seonghwa apologized, straightening his shirt as he piled some of the contents of his backpack onto the desk. "today was so tiring, ugh. but seeing your cute face makes everything so much better."

you laughed, shifting on the bed to sit against the headboard, propping your phone in between your knees as you pulled your legs up, a little closer to your chest. seonghwa just always knew how to make you feel appreciated, with his cheesy one-liners.

"oh, shut up," was all you could muster up, a loud yawn resonating through your room before you spoke again in a softer tone, rubbing your eyes. "what happened today? your professor giving you a hard time?"

"not really, just that he made us study a ridiculously cryptic poem again. thinking of it makes my brain want to eject itself out of my head in an attempt to self destruct," seonghwa replied, panning the camera up with the help of his book to allow you a full view of his face. he looked as stunning as always, his eyes shining with affection for you. your face was lit up solely from your phone screen and your bedside lamp, in an effort to not strain your eyes much.

"you always have weird ways to describe what you're thinking," you blurted out. it wasn't a bad thing, you found it cute. and plus, it was easier to empathize with him in that way. 

"i know, i'm an intellectual," he said, snorting softly, embarrassed at his own satirical praise. seonghwa leaned in, paying attention intently to you as you spoke, rambling slightly about your day.

as time passed, you felt yourself get sleepier and sleepier, and it seemed like seonghwa noticed, frowning slightly.

"isn't it like super late for you now? you should get to sleep," seonghwa said after he finished his sentence, something about the cafeteria food there. "you look really tired."

"but i want to talk to you," you tried to protest, but it seemed like seonghwa was firm on you getting your beauty sleep. he was stubborn, even more than you, and he won again. "okay, okay, you're right. i feel like i'm about to pass out."

"oh, dear," he cooed softly, pouting slightly as he leaned in a bit more. he didn't really want to part from you, wanting to talk more but he cared more than you were not too sleep deprived. "why not stay on call with me? i can study while you sleep and you can get some comfort knowing i'm on the other side of the line."

your eyes lit up from his suggestion, and you nodded happily at it. it was a great idea for you. 

"what if i snore?" you asked, raising an eyebrow briefly before leaning back with a soft groan.

"doesn't matter, i think it's adorable. now, sleep! i love you," seonghwa demanded in a playful manner, with a tinge of seriousness in his tone. he blew a kiss to you, definitely wishing he was there to kiss you in person, but this would do for now.

"i love you too, i'm gonna snuggle with your plushies to pretend you're here in person. goodnight, make sure to call me earlier tomorrow," you mumbled, blowing a kiss back to him. a chuckle could be heard from the speakers of your phone as you put it aside, next to your head on the pillow. your hands were occupied, holding the plushies tight to your chest, remnants of his scent and cologne on the material.

In realms unseen, where dreams reside,

A lost soul wandered far and wide.

Yearning for love in the darkest night,

But fate had plans to change their plight.

In celestial realms, a god awake.

Unfathomable power, no heart to break.

Yet untouched by life's fragile grace,

Yearning to feel their own heart's embrace.

A chance encounter, two worlds collide.

The lost soul found solace deep inside.

In eyes of gold, love's fire did burn.

And in that moment, hearts did yearn.

For a soul so lost had found its light,

A god unsure of what was right.

Through delicate whispers, love took flight.

Two souls entwined in passionate plight.

The lost soul's touch, like a gentle breeze.

Stirred the gods' senses and brought them to their knees.

For the first time, they experienced joy.

Love's sweet elixir, no reason to toy.

Together they danced in realms unknown,

Experiencing love they had never known.

The god, reborn, through emotions anew,

Guided by the lost soul's love so true.

From dawn to dusk, they shared every breath,

Life's euphoria, defying death.

But time, capricious, began to unveil.

The fragility of love's ethereal trail.

Death's embrace arrived one mournful day.

Cruelly tempting the lost soul away.

But love, steadfast, would not be denied.

In sacrifice, their hearts still implied.

As the lost soul faded amidst golden skies,

The god wept bitterly, tears aching cries.

A love so profound, eternally entwined.

Their souls united, forever defined.

In realms beyond, where dreams reside.

A lost soul found love in a god's fierce stride.

Through love, life, and death's embrace,

Their spirits, inseparable, in timeless grace.

Initially, you were not at all surprised when an important God like him didn't escort you to heaven himself. He, at least, had the decency to inform the heavenly guards of your arrival to make you seem like neither a traitor nor an intruder. The long journey took you almost three whole days, and at the end of it, your whole body and soul ached. It was like something you had never experienced at the river before.

But that meant you also had a lot of time to think.

Your trial. Love, life, and death. It was a bizarre experience; you spent eternity watching it but never even thought about what it actually was. You could finally love, live, and die, but you had no idea which of these was more terrifying—or what it actually meant for you.

The guards opened heaven's gates—not without sending surprising looks your way—and after a second, you slowly started walking towards it.

You suddenly remembered an old story a passing soul once told you. It was a young girl, her life cut too short by an unmerciful illness, and she told you about a book she really liked. After all this time, you didn't remember the title, but you recalled what she told you exactly. “It's about a land we humans can only dream about, Miss, so beautiful only those worthy can enter”, she said.

At that time, you did not believe such a place really existed.

Now, as you opened your eyes, you remembered that girl and her book, and you had to admit you thought wrong at that time; it was indeed true, and this place was the proof you needed. Standing here now, at the other side of the gate, it was like being reborn, but in a much brighter, better world. The morning had dawned clear and cold, with a crispness that hinted at the end of summer, and the birds sang their beautiful hymn. Where you came from, there has never been a change, not even in the weather; it was all lifeless and dull, a never changing eternity.

But here, everything was different. It was simply gorgeous, the scenery indescribably breathtaking.

The vibrant colors of the grass and nearby trees painted a picturesque landscape as if nature itself had taken up a paintbrush. Golden hues of the leaves danced in the gentle breeze, creating a mesmerizing symphony of motion. The air was filled with the sweet fragrance of blooming flowers, tickling your nose slightly and bringing a sense of tranquility.

As you walked along the path, you couldn't help but be utterly captivated by the sheer beauty that surrounded you. The towering trees stood tall and proud, their branches reaching toward the heavens as if trying to touch the endless sky. The sunlight filtered through the canopy, casting enchanting patterns on the forest floor.

The sound of a nearby stream filled your ears, its gentle babbling providing a soothing soundtrack to your journey. The water sparkled like diamonds under the sunlight, beckoning you to come closer and experience its refreshing embrace. You dipped your hand into the cool water, feeling its life-giving energy course through your fingertips.

Another thing that was different from the river you came from.

“You seem quite speechless, little one.”

You watched the water drop slowly from your fingertips, not turning around as you heard the familiar voice.

Jongho appeared right behind you, his eyes holding a mix of amusement and curiosity as he observed your reaction to the serene beauty of your surroundings. His presence exuded power and strength, contrasting with the shimmering lake's peaceful atmosphere.

You stood up, meeting his gaze and bowing politely. “It's an honor to be here, Sir.”

Nature enveloped you in its gentle embrace, a comfortable silence lingering between you for a moment.

"You know," Jongho began, breaking the silence, "I've watched over countless souls throughout the ages. I met many humans, gods, and other celestial beings. But there's something about you that intrigues me…" He seemed lost in thought for a moment.

“You are beyond anything I've ever seen.”

You looked up, curiosity sparking in your eyes. "What do you mean, Sir?"

Jongho smiled, his gaze distant as if reminiscing about past memories. "Most souls follow a predetermined path, guided by the currents of fate and destiny. But you... you've defied all expectations. You truly are a unique thing."

You pondered his words, a sense of wonder filling your heart. "I never thought of it that way before. I've always felt like a mere observer, guiding souls from one realm to another."

Jongho nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Indeed, your role as a guide is a noble one. But I believe there's more to your existence than meets the eye. You possess a unique essence that transcends the boundaries of the mortal and celestial realms."

“What do you mean by my essence, Sir?"

Jongho's eyes sparkled with a hint of mischief.

"I mean that you have the potential to experience life in ways you never thought possible. Emotions, desires, dreams... they are all within your reach, waiting to be discovered."

You felt a flicker of excitement stir within you at the prospect of exploring these unfamiliar concepts. "But how do I begin to understand emotions when I've never experienced them before, Sir?"

“Who knows? It seems you may have to figure this obstacle out on your own.”

Once again, you could only sigh, not surprised that a God would not help a mere soul like you, especially not with a significant matter like this. You heard how Gods enjoyed the thrill of such things, distracting them from the boredom of their immortality, and it seemed that Jongho was no exception.

As you and Jongho journeyed towards his mansion, the landscape slowly transformed around you, each step revealing a world of breathtaking beauty. The path meandered through a lush landscape adorned with vibrant flowers you've only read about.

Sunlight filtered through the foliage, casting dappled shadows on the ground below.

In the distance, the silhouette of Jongho's mansion loomed against the horizon, its elegant architecture standing out amidst the natural splendor surrounding it. As you drew closer, the grandeur of the mansion became more and more apparent, its imposing facade adorned with intricate carvings and ornate details.

Jongho led you through the gates, iron bars gleaming in the sunlight as they swung open to welcome you inside. The path continued through manicured lawns and pristine gardens, leading you toward the heart of the mansion.

As you approached the grand entrance, you couldn't help but marvel at the beauty and opulence that surrounded you. This was no ordinary mansion; it was a testament to Jongho's power and prestige, a reflection of the divine being who called it home.

But in a mere instant, Jongho's demeanor shifted, his expression darkening as he abruptly halted in his tracks and pushed you behind him.

“Sir? Is someth-” But you were unable to finish your sentence.

Seconds filled with thick tension passed, and then, out of thin air, a figure appeared in front of you.

You immediately knew it was another God, his aura unmistakably powerful and intimidating.

Gods were all-powerful, everyone knew that, but that still didn't mean they were allowed to do everything. Especially not invading the territory of another God without invitation. And yet Jongho remained completely calm despite this outrageous taunt.

“What is it that you want here, Wooyoung?” The God's voice was stern and deep, almost making you feel intimidated despite not being able to feel such things.

“My dear Jongho,” Wooyoung said with a sly smirk, seemingly unfazed by the tension in the air. “I come bearing no ill intent, I assure you. I simply couldn't resist the opportunity to meet this intriguing soul who has caught your attention. It is all the people talk about.”

His voice flowed smoothly like silk, carrying a playful lilt that hinted at his mischievous nature.

The God of mischief.

He regarded you with a glint of amusement and obvious interest in his eyes, his presence exuding a captivating charm that both intrigued and unnerved you.

Jongho’s posture remained unwavering, his gaze locked onto Wooyoung. An air of authority that surrounded him, demanding endless respect. “I fail to see how my affairs concern you, Wooyoung. This soul is under my guidance, and I will not allow you to disrupt her journey.”

Wooyoung chuckled softly, a sound that seemed to dance in the air like the tinkling of fine crystals. He was dangerous but not an evil being.

“Oh, Jongho, always the vigilant guardian. But fear not, I have no intention of causing harm today. In fact, I only wanted one look at her. That's all, my dear friend.”

It was an obvious lie, and Wooyoung made no attempt to even hide it.

You felt a sense of unease stir within you as you were caught in the midst of their exchange, unsure of how to respond to the unexpected presence of another god.

Jongho remained stoic, but his eyes held a glimmer of caution as he regarded Wooyoung.

“You are a fool, but you aren't dumb. It is clear that you want something. Please, enlighten me.”

Wooyoung’s smirk widened, the corners of his lips curling with an undeniable allure. “Ah, but that is the beauty of mischief, my dear Jongho. I offer the unknown, the unexpected, the thrill of venturing beyond the boundaries of the ordinary. It would be incredibly boring to outright say what I want, wouldn't it?”

You found yourself captivated by Wooyoung’s words, his attempt to get Jongho to engage with him, and a part of you yearned for the promise of the excitement of his mischievous nature that he hinted at, even as the rational part of your mind cautioned against the allure of his persuasive charm.

Jongho’s expression remained unchanged, but you now detected a subtle shift in his demeanor.

“Leave”, he growled. “Now!”

Jongho's commanding presence emanated authority and power, demanding Wooyoung to comply with his wishes. The air crackled with tension as the two gods locked gazes, their energies clashing in a silent battle of wills.

Wooyoung, ever the picture of nonchalance, simply chuckled in response, a vexing glint dancing in his eyes like the flicker of a jewel in the sunlight. "As you wish, my dear Jongho," he purred, his velvety voice weaving a tantalizing spell around the surroundings.

He gave you one final look that promised you one thing: he would be back, and only fate knew if that was good or bad.

And just as he made to depart, he conjured a marvelous burst of light that illuminated the sky in a stunning display of iridescent colors. It was a breathtaking spectacle, a final gesture of his godly power left a lingering sense of wonder in its wake.

As Wooyoung gracefully retreated, the atmosphere settled once more, and you were left to process the surprising encounter with the enigmatic god. Jongho's steely gaze softened as he turned to you, offering a reassuring nod.

“I see that you are not afraid of another God”, Jongho stated calmly.

You shook your head. “I am not, Sir.”

As you stood in the aftermath of the unexpected encounter, the atmosphere seemed to hold its breath in the wake of the god's departure. The extravagant grounds of Jongho's mansion felt eerily silent, save for the distant whispers of the people who attended to the needs of their god.

Your focus had been solely on the uninvited god minutes ago, so much so that you did not notice the growing turmoil around you. Apparently, you and Jongho had not been the only witnesses of Wooyoung's presence.

Now elegant figures brushed past you; their silk garments rustled softly as they exchanged hushed words, their faces adorned with expressions of curiosity and intrigue. The air was filled with an undercurrent of excitement as they spoke in reverent tones about the arrival of the new soul who stood in the company of the almighty God of War.

They cast furtive glances in your direction, spreading the news of your presence like a delicate and precious secret. Their gestures were graceful, movements choreographed with the precision of a dance, as they performed their duties with an air of effortless sophistication befitting their master's realm.

Each servant exuded an aura of opulence and refinement, their demeanor a reflection of the immortality and eternity that surrounded them.

As their murmurs and hushed discussions continued, you couldn't help but feel the weight of their scrutiny, their keen observations causing a ripple of unease stir within you. It was as if the very air hummed with the anticipation of what your arrival might signify for them and their god.

Jongho's presence remained a pillar of strength and composure, his countenance radiating a sense of remaining authority. His eyes held a silent reassurance, signaling that you were under his careful and watchful guidance, even amidst the enigmatic presence of other gods.

You looked down at your wrist, noticing how the seal he casted days ago flared up, its beauty and power reminding you of Jongho's promise of safety.

Jongho cleared his throat, effectively getting your attention back onto him.

“Are you ready for a little tour?” he asked, an inviting smile adorning his plush lips. You happily obliged; of course, you were. After all, you were more than curious about how a God of his demeanor resided.

As you and Jongho walked through the sprawling mansion grounds, you couldn't help but marvel at the sheer scale and grandeur of your surroundings. Every corner seemed to hold a new wonder, each room revealing a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of a god.

He led you through ornate hallways adorned with intricate tapestries and priceless works of art, his footsteps echoing against the polished marble floors. The walls were lined with towering bookshelves filled with ancient tomes and scrolls, each one containing a wealth of knowledge and wisdom.

Unfortunately for you, there were none of the romantic books you enjoyed so much.

You continued following Jongho through a series of grand chambers, each one more lavish than the last. One room housed a magnificent collection of weapons and armor, gleaming in the soft light that filtered through stained glass windows. Another room was filled with exotic plants and flowers, their vibrant colors creating a kaleidoscope of beauty.

“What a pleasant surprise to see the God of War having such excellent taste when it comes to interior design”, you said.

Jongho chuckled softly at your comment, a hint of amusement in his eyes.

"I must admit, I have a penchant for the finer things in life. Though my title may suggest otherwise, I find solace in beauty and elegance amidst the chaos of war."

You nodded, taking in the exquisite surroundings with a sense of wonder.

"It's truly remarkable," you noted, "how you balance both strength and refinement in your domain."

Jongho smiled, a touch of warmth softening his features.

"Thank you... I've always believed that true power lies not only in might but also in grace and sophistication."

As you continued your tour of the mansion, Jongho regaled you with stories of his exploits and adventures, each one more captivating than the last. You listened with rapt attention, hanging on to his every word as he painted vivid pictures of battles fought and victories won.

Despite his fearsome reputation as the God of War, you couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for Jongho and the unwavering dedication with which he carried out his duties. In his presence, you found yourself drawn to his strength and resolve yet also comforted by his gentle demeanor.

As you walked and talked, Jongho shared snippets of his life and experiences with you, giving you a rare glimpse into the world of a god. You found yourself captivated by his stories, each one more fascinating than the last.

"Tell me, little one”, Jongho began, his voice taking on a thoughtful tone, "what do you desire most now that you've entered the heavenly realm?”

“To seduce you, Sir.”

Jongho regarded you with a raised eyebrow, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes.

"Is that so?" he asked, his tone laced with mild surprise.

You nodded earnestly, your expression resolute, "Yes, Sir. My goal is to seduce you."

A flicker of intrigue crossed Jongho's features, his lips curling into a faint smile.

"Well, you certainly aren't one to shy away from honesty," he remarked, his voice tinged with amusement.

You met his gaze with unwavering determination.

"I may not have much experience with emotions or desires, but I know that I feel drawn to you in a way I've never felt before. And I want to explore that further."

Jongho's smile widened, a spark of something unreadable gleaming in his eyes.

"Very well, then. Consider it a challenge accepted.”

As you and Jongho continued conversing and exploring the opulent chambers, it became more and more apparent that you truly enjoyed the man's company, listening to his pleasant voice while he showed you around or talked about various topics.

However, just as you were about to enter a particularly ornate chamber adorned with intricate tapestries, your conversation was abruptly interrupted by the sudden appearance of one of Jongho's guards.

The guard bowed respectfully before Jongho, his expression serious as he relayed an urgent message. Jongho listened intently, his demeanor shifting from casual to alert in an instant.

"What is it?" you asked, sensing the tension in the air.

Jongho turned to you, his expression serious.

"It seems there is an urgent matter that requires my attention," he explained. "I must attend to it immediately."

You nodded understandingly, realizing that duty called for Jongho even in the midst of your tour.

"Of course, Sir," you replied, offering him a respectful bow.

As Jongho turned to leave, you couldn't help but feel a sense of disappointment at the abrupt end to your time together. However, you knew that duty must always come first for a god like Jongho.

Before he departed, Jongho turned to you with a reassuring smile.

"I will return as soon as I am able to," he promised, "In the meantime, one of the maids will lead you to your chambers."

With that, Jongho bid you farewell and hurried off to attend to his duties, leaving you alone in the grandeur of his mansion. You waited for a while until a young and small woman hurried up to you, bowing deeply before you.

“Apologize for keeping you waiting, Miss”, she said, “My name is Jia, and I will be your personal maid during your visit. Whatever the lady might want, I'm here to help. M-may I ask, how should I address you, Miss?”

“My name is-” You paused. My name…

You had no name.

At the river, you had a title, sure. But here? You were nothing but a nameless soul, only here for the time being.

As you pondered your lack of a name, you realized that it was a fundamental part of your identity that you had never considered before. Without a name, you felt adrift, like a ship without a compass.

“I… I don't have a name,” you admitted, feeling a pang of uncertainty at the realization.

Surprise flashed in the maids' eyes.

“O-oh”, she stuttered, “well, that should not be a problem. If it is fine with the lady, I'll just refer to you as Miss.”

As you contemplated the absence of a name, you couldn't help but feel a sense of unease at the thought of being nameless in this new world. It was a stark reminder of your existence as a soul without identity or purpose beyond your role as a guide.

However, you also understood that your lack of a name didn't diminish your worth or significance - or at least you tried to understand.

With a nod, you accepted the maid's proposal to refer to you simply as "Miss." It was a temporary solution that allowed you to move forward with your journey in this celestial realm.

“Thank you, Jia,” you replied, offering her a small smile, “I appreciate your assistance during my stay here.”

Jia returned the smile, her eyes reflecting warmth and kindness, “It is my pleasure, Miss. Please, follow me, and I will accompany you to your chambers.”

With that, you followed Jia through the halls of Jongho's mansion, your mind buzzed with thoughts of the encounter with Wooyoung and the revelations about your own identity.

Eventually, Jia led you to a set of intricately carved double doors, which she pushed open to reveal a spacious and elegantly appointed chamber. The room was bathed in soft candlelight, glowing warm and invitingly over the plush furnishings and sumptuous fabrics.

“This will be your chamber during your stay, Miss,” Jia explained, gesturing towards the luxurious canopy bed and velvet-covered chaise lounge, “If there is anything you need, please don't hesitate to ask.”

“Thank you, Jia. I appreciate your help.”

The room exuded an air of tranquility and comfort. Soft, plush carpets covered the floor, their intricate patterns adding a touch of elegance to the space.

The centerpiece of the room was undoubtedly the luxurious canopy bed, its towering posts draped in sheer curtains that billowed gently in the breeze. The bedding was soft and inviting, adorned with intricate embroidery and delicate lace trimmings. A multitude of plump pillows laid on the bed, promising restful slumber.

Nearby, a velvet-covered chaise lounge beckoned invitingly, its plush cushions inviting you to relax and unwind after a long day. A small writing desk sat in one corner of the room; its surface was adorned with quills, inkwells, and parchment, offering a space for quiet contemplation or creative expression. Unfortunately, you were not taught the ability to write, but you figured that could be changed. Maybe you'd ask Jongho for help.

The room was bathed in the soft glow of candlelight, casting dancing shadows across the walls and lending a warm, intimate atmosphere to the space. A delicate crystal chandelier hung from the ceiling, its sparkling facets casting a mesmerizing pattern of light and shadow across the room.

Small touches of luxury and refinement could be found throughout the chamber, from the intricate carvings on the furniture to the delicate china tea set arranged on a nearby side table.

You carefully sat down on the bed and waited. After a few minutes, Jia returned with two other maids, both not older than 16 summers. They prepared a hot bath for your aching muscles, adorned with flower petals and various exotic bath salts. After that, they brushed your hair generously and massaged lavender oil into your skin, making you feel more like a god yourself than just the mere guest of one.

“When can I expect Jongho's return?” you asked while carefully putting on a beautiful white tunica.

“Oh, I'm afraid to tell you that our Lord will not return until the day after tomorrow. But do not worry, Miss, in the meantime, you will not be forgotten.”

As you listened to Jia's response, a pang of disappointment washed over you at the prospect of waiting for Jongho's return. However, you understood the demands of his duties and respected his need to attend to them.

"I understand," you replied, offering Jia a grateful smile. "Thank you for informing me. I appreciate it. Please also thank the young maidens in my name; both the bath and the massage were wonderful.”

Jia returned your smile, her expression warm and reassuring.

"It is our pleasure to serve you, Miss. If there is anything else you require, please do not hesitate to ask. May I ask if the Miss wants to eat supper now?”

You declined; there was no need for you to eat because you did not experience hunger, and the appeal of food was something you never really understood anyway. With that, Jia bid you goodnight and left you alone in your room. As you settled into the soft embrace of the luxurious bed, you couldn't help but think about Jongho and his whereabouts.

Maybe, you thought, a part of you already began missing him.

“Miss, do you really want to know how to seduce someone?”

“Yes, Jia. I want to learn how to make someone fall in love with me,” you replied, curious about the maid's perspective on the matter.

“My apologies Miss, that caught me a bit off-guard”, Jia laughed awkwardly as she tied your hair into a braid, “I am merely curious, Miss… you have only been here for a few days and not left your chambers much, but already seem to have someone in mind? Who could that be?”

“What a silly question”, you chuckled, “Jongho, of course.”

“The Lord?!” Jia gasped.

Jia's gasp echoed in the room, her eyes widening in disbelief.

"The Lord?" she repeated, her voice barely above a whisper, “Forgive my boldness, Miss, but... surely that's not possible. Lord Jongho is a powerful and respected figure, a God, and you are but a humble guest in his mansion.”

You giggled, amused at Jia's reaction, understanding her surprise.

“I know it may seem unconventional,” you admitted, “but there's something about him that draws me in.”

Jia's expression softened, a glimmer of understanding in her eyes. “I see,” she murmured, her fingers deftly weaving your hair into an intricate braid, “Our Lord is a nice and strong man, but he is also a difficult one. He distances himself a lot, fighting battle after battle alone. But you already seem to have made up your mind, Miss, and I find that quite endearing?”

As Jia finished the braid, you met her gaze with gratitude.

“Thank you, Jia,” you said sincerely, “Your support means a lot to me.”

“It's my duty to serve you as long as you stay here, Miss,” Jia replied with a warm smile, “Now, about seduction... it's not just about physical allure but also about capturing someone's heart and mind. Confidence, charm, and sincerity are key. Show Lord Jongho the depths of your soul; perhaps he will see what I see in you.”

You nodded thoughtfully, absorbing Jia's words.

“In the books I read, the couple always does this weird thing when they like each other… I believe it's called “making love”. What exactly is that? Can you teach me, Jia?”

Jia paused for a moment, her cheeks flushing slightly as she considered your question. Her obvious discomfort made you feel awkward, too.

“I... I'm afraid I can't teach you about that, Miss,” Jia stammered, her voice tinged with embarrassment, “It's a... delicate matter and not something I'm accustomed to discussing. You shouldn't ask people about such things here.”

“Maybe I will ask Jongho about it later,” you quietly mumbled to yourself.

Jia's eyes widened, and she immediately shouted, “No!” before stepping back and putting her hands over her mouth, shocked at her own sudden outburst.

Jia's sudden outburst startled you, causing you to pause and look at her with surprise.

“Jia, are you alright?” you asked, concerned by her sudden change in demeanor.

Jia took a moment to compose herself, lowering her hands from her mouth and offering you an apologetic smile.

“I-I'm sorry, Miss,” she stammered, her cheeks still flushed with embarrassment, “I didn't mean to... it's just... discussing such matters with Lord Jongho... it's not... appropriate.”

You furrowed your brow, puzzled by Jia's reaction.

“But why not?” you questioned, curious about the underlying reasons for her reluctance.

Jia cleared her throat, her gaze flickering away for a moment before returning to meet yours. “It's just... not done, Miss,” she explained vaguely, her voice barely above a whisper, “Such topics are not appropriate, especially not for a lady like you.”

Though you were still puzzled by Jia's reaction, simply not knowing much about appropriate manners, you decided not to push the issue any further. It was clear that the topic was sensitive for her, and you didn't want to make her feel any more uncomfortable than she already seemed to be.

“Alright, Jia,” you conceded with a nod, “I won't bring it up again. Thank you for your honesty.”

Jia's expression softened, a look of relief washing over her features. “Thank you, Miss,” she murmured gratefully, “I appreciate your understanding.”

With that, the two of you lapsed into a comfortable silence, the weight of the unspoken conversation lingering in the air between you. As Jia resumed her task of braiding your hair, you were lost in thought.

Maybe Jongho could teach you about what appropriate behavior was, you thought. He said he was always there to help you; you would take his word for it.

“I'm finished, Miss,” Jia softly called out. You looked at the large mirror in front of you, carefully twirling the grand between your fingers.

“Do you like it, Miss?”

“Oh, I think it's-”

“Beautiful”, a deep, familiar voice said behind you.

You turned around, surprised to see Jongho standing there.

“Oh, is this the Lord who left me alone here for four days?” you asked sarcastically, but with no ill attention. Jongho chuckled softly at your playful sarcasm, his eyes twinkling with amusement.

“Guilty as charged”, he admitted, his voice carrying a hint of warmth, “But I assure you, I had good reason for my absence.”

You couldn't help but smile at his response, appreciating his lighthearted demeanor.

“I'm sure you did”, you replied, teasing him gently, “Though I must admit, I did miss your company.”

Jongho's smile softened, a flicker of something unreadable passing through his eyes.

“And I missed yours”, he confessed, his tone sincere, “But now that I'm here, I plan to make it up to you.”

You raised an eyebrow, intrigued by his words. “Oh? And how do you plan to do that?” you asked, playful curiosity lacing your voice.

Jongho took a step closer, his gaze intense as he looked at you.

“By spending time with you”, he replied simply, his voice low and velvety, “Getting to know you better, and perhaps... making up for the lost time.”

A shiver ran down your spine at the intensity of his gaze, a flutter of anticipation stirring in your chest. Despite the playful banter, there was something undeniably serious in Jongho's eyes, a silent promise of things to come.

“Well then,” you said, unable to suppress the smile that tugged at your lips, “I suppose we have a lot of catching up to do.”

Jongho's smile widened, a spark of excitement dancing in his eyes.

“Indeed we do,” he agreed, his voice tinged with anticipation, “Shall we, Miss?”

As you stepped closer to Jongho, a mischievous glint in your eye, you replied, "Lead the way, my lord. I'm eager to see what surprises you have in store for me."

Jongho's smile widened, and with a graceful gesture, he offered you his arm. You accepted, feeling a thrill course through you at the contact as you walked side by side to the mansion's garden.

It was late already, and the moon's soft glow casted delicate shadows across the path, illuminating the vibrant colors of the flowers in bloom. The air was filled with the sweet scent of various flowers, adding to the enchanting atmosphere as you and Jongho strolled along in comfortable silence.

“So, my servants told me you haven't left your room much these past days?”

You hummed, bending down to smell a bunch of flowers, “Yes, Sir. It felt wrong strolling around the mansion without you.”

Jongho stopped in his tracks, looking down at you. You tilted your head in a silent question.

“I'm honored you seem to respect me this much, but as long as you stay here, you have permission to do anything you want, even if you are not in my presence”, Jongho said.

You chuckled.

“Anything? Really?”

“Of course.”

“So am I also given permission to seduce you, my Lord?”

Jongho's eyes widened slightly at your bold question, a hint of surprise crossing his features. He blinked, processing your words before a slow smile spread across his face.

“Well, that depends,” he replied, his voice low and teasing, “Are you up for the challenge?”

You grinned, feeling a rush of exhilaration at the playful banter between you.

“Oh, I believe I am,” you retorted, meeting his gaze head-on, “But are you?”

Jongho's smile widened, a glint of amusement dancing in his eyes.

“I suppose we'll have to find out,” he said, his tone suggestive.

As you and Jongho continued your leisurely stroll through the garden surrounded by the intoxicating scent of blooming flowers, you found yourself marveling at the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of the flora around you.

“Jongho, what are these flowers called?” you asked, gesturing towards a cluster of delicate white blossoms that seemed to shimmer in the moonlight.

Jongho smiled, his eyes alight with a spark of knowledge.

“Those are jasmine flowers,” he replied, his voice soft and melodic, “They are known for their sweet fragrance and are often associated with purity and love.”

You nodded, taking in the beauty of the flowers with renewed appreciation.

“They're exquisite,” you murmured, reaching out to gently brush your fingertips against the velvety petals.

“Oh, and what about these?” you asked excitedly, going towards a bunch of yellow flowers.

Jongho's smile widened at your curiosity, and he stepped closer to the cluster of yellow flowers, examining them with a thoughtful expression.

“Ah, those are sunflowers,” he explained, his voice filled with warmth, “They're known for their vibrant color and their tendency to follow the sun throughout the day.”

You listened intently, fascinated by Jongho's explanation.

“Sunflowers are quite resilient,” he continued, his gaze lingering on the blooms, “They symbolize adoration, loyalty, and longevity. A fitting flower for a garden such as this.”

“I like these,” you said, looking up at Jongho with a smile.

Jongho returned your smile, his eyes softening with warmth.

“I'm glad you do,” he replied, his tone gentle, “Sunflowers have a way of brightening up even the darkest of days.”

He took your hand and guided you to a bench, and the two of you quietly sat down.

“I suppose you aren't willing to tell me where you've been these past days, Sir?”

Jongho's expression softened, a hint of contemplation flickering in his eyes as he gazed into the distance. You saw the silent battle in his eyes and knew the answer before he could even open his mouth.

“It's okay,” you said, “Such matters should not be discussed with outsiders. I understand, Sir. I'm not angry about it.”

After a while, Jongho turned to you, his expression thoughtful as he regarded you with a mixture of warmth and determination.

“You know,” he began, his voice quiet yet resolute, “what you’re about to embark on won't be easy. You can't return to the river, but you can't stay here either. After your trial ends, you'll be reborn as a human.”

“I understand,” you replied, your voice steady and calm, “I am ready for what is coming, though I can't say I am scared or excited about it.”

You quietly chuckled.

“You will soon feel emotions too,” he added.

“I know, Sir. I do have one last question, though, Sir.”

“Ask right away,” the man calmly said. He was now gazing into the distance, and you followed his eyes to see him looking at some children playing a few feet away, seemingly not noticing their god and his esteemed guest.

“It's regarding my trial of love, Sir… I heard there are different forms of love. Which one will determine my fate?”

"There are indeed different forms of love, each with its own unique qualities and significance," he began, "But ultimately, the form of love that will determine your fate is the one that is true, genuine, and unconditional. It's not about the grand gestures or passionate declarations, but rather about the depth of connection, understanding, and commitment between two hearts."

You listened intently, absorbing Jongho's words as he continued.

"Your trial of love is not just about winning someone's affection or proving your worthiness," he explained, "It's about embracing love in its purest form, allowing it to guide you and shape you into the person you are meant to be.”

“I do not know how to fall in love with someone,” you whispered, “All I know is that I came here to seduce you, Sir. How can I fall in love with you?”

For the very first time, you saw the god of war blushing, his ears and cheeks becoming a deep shade of red. He eagerly cleared his throat.

Jongho's blush caught you by surprise, a rare sight from the powerful and composed figure before you. His discomfort was evident, yet there was a warmth in his eyes that spoke volumes.

“Falling in love with the god of war… I see, so you were indeed serious.”

Confused, you answered: “Of course I was, Sir.” Jongho's blush deepened at your response, but he quickly composed himself, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes.

"Forgive my reaction; it's just... unexpected," he admitted, his voice tinged with self-deprecation.

“I don't understand… surely you are fairly popular with the young ladies? And you said yes when I asked to seduce you, Sir. Didn’t you take me seriously before?”

Jongho's amusement softened into a thoughtful expression as he regarded you.

“It's not that I didn't take you seriously before,” he explained gently, his voice carrying a touch of warmth, “It's just that... well, love is a big word, a complex emotion.”

You nodded, “I understand that.”

“You can't just force such deep emotions. It doesn't work like this, little one.”

You frowned, letting out a deep sigh as you looked up. “So, just because I want to fall in love with you doesn't mean I will?”

Jongho's gaze softened as he observed your expression, a sense of empathy reflected in his eyes.

“It's not that simple, I'm afraid,” he replied gently, his tone filled with understanding.

“And who knows,” he added, ruffling through your hair and laughing when you grimaced, “maybe love will come to you in a very different way.”