Stay With Me

Chapter Fifteen

The following evening, JK and his team gathered at a cozy café, with only Chim absent, remaining at the safe house to monitor any potential threats. They were deep in discussion about their next strategic moves.

"I think we should hold off for at least a week before making any moves and ensure that Kim doesn't act prematurely," RM suggested thoughtfully.

"Exactly. We can't afford to give him any chance to outsmart us," Suga chimed in.

"He's got nothing going for him. That Bogum of his is completely useless," RJ remarked dismissively.

"We shouldn't underestimate our enemy. They can strike back when we least expect it. We need to stay vigilant and cautious with every step we take," JK concluded firmly.

Just then, Suga's phone rang. He answered it, responding with a few affirmatives and negatives before hanging up.

"What's going on?" JK asked, curious.

"Mr. Jeon contacted Chim and told him to relay that he wants all of us back at the mansion. Apparently, he has something important to discuss," Suga explained.

"Who called you?" RM inquired.

"Chim, of course. He's the only one at the safe house who can get this information to us," Suga replied.

"It's odd that he didn't call you directly, JK," RJ noted.

"Maybe there was something in the conversation meant just for their ears," RM teased lightly.

"Listen, you two focus on your own lives. At least I'm trying to express my feelings! Unlike you two, who are afraid to confess despite having feelings for each other," Suga pointed out bluntly. RJ sighed deeply while RM hung his head in shame.

Meanwhile, JK burst into laughter. "I have to agree with Suga on this one. It's about time you two confessed your feelings!"

"I'm ready, but someone isn't. JK, I'm heading out to wait in the car," RJ said, casting a meaningful glance at RM before leaving.

"What was that about, RM?" Suga asked, raising an eyebrow.

RM took a deep breath and began, "Yesterday, as JK said, our lives are unpredictable. I love RJ deeply—more than anything—but I can't bear the thought of losing him. I can't provide him with the safety and security he deserves, and the idea of leaving him alone is more painful than not confessing my feelings. I know it sounds selfish, but maybe that's how love works."

JK sighed heavily. "That's a harsh truth we all face: being unable to express our feelings for those we care about."

Suga nodded thoughtfully. RM's words resonated with him, prompting a resolve to have an honest conversation with Chim later on. He couldn't lead him on only to break his heart; distancing himself might be best for both of them.

Noticing the somber atmosphere, JK spoke up, "Let's head out. Dad must be waiting for us."

They all nodded in agreement and stood up to leave the café. As they stepped outside, JK asked RM, "By the way, did you make that list of people we'll be meeting tomorrow?"

"Yes," RM replied.

As they walked a few paces further, JK spotted someone intriguing—a silver-haired male selling artwork on the side of the street with a crutch supporting his right leg. 

A smile broke across JK's face as he turned to his friends. "You guys go ahead; I'll catch up in a few minutes. RM, leave my car behind."

RM smirked knowingly as he noticed where JK's gaze had landed. "Fine. Take your time," he said before departing with Suga.