DANCE WITH THE DEVIL

CHAPTER 1

Olympia Event House |

The bright hallways buzzed with life, packed in every corner with people spilling onto couches, chairs, and every available mini stool. Glasses and bottles littered the tables, held by careless hands and shared amidst lively conversations. Plates piled high with food surrounded them, utensils angled on both sides. A haze of cigarette smoke and vape clouds hung in the air, adding to the chaotic ambiance.

The music wasn't overpowering, but it reverberated in the background, a steady pulse that permeated the gathering.

This was just another open party thrown by Jaemin Na, a name that echoed through the racing world.

Beneath the party's surface, his men were strategically positioned, dressed in semi-formal suits to blend in seamlessly. Jaemin leaned against the railing, a small smirk on his lips as he scanned the sea of bodies, each lost in their own revelry.

"Sir, should we turn the music up a bit?" one of his men suggested, hopeful.

"No, that's unnecessary," Jaemin replied curtly.

Cranking up the volume would only drown out the conversations and add to the already deafening chaos.

But why throw these parties at all? For fame? To maintain his reputation? Only he could answer that, and if he were honest, it was mostly out of boredom.

"Sir, Haechan wanted me to let you know he just finished the mission," came another voice.

"Okay. Tell Jisung to lift the security at headquarters and let his team in," Jaemin instructed, his tone brisk.

"Sir, your brother—"

"Can we all just relax and enjoy the party?" he interjected, his smile tight and lacking warmth, more a warning than an invitation. "Where's Mark, anyway?"

"He said he'd come late."

"Again?"

"He mentioned it was because of his sister."

"Good heavens, he's always late when I need him. Never mind, off you go."

As Jaemin descended the stairs, he was immediately swarmed by guests—greetings, compliments, and the occasional touch. He flashed a small smile, expertly navigating through the crowd, looking to kill time.

Meanwhile, behind a closed door, Mark paced, brows furrowed and arms crossed.

"How did you even get here?" he demanded, incredulous.

"I took a taxi," Areum replied, a cheeky smile on her lips.

"And you thought it was a good idea to follow me? Seriously, young lady?"

"Marcus~ it's not like you had a choice! The party's going on, and I heard you were late. Go in!"

"I'm only late because of you!"

"Because you didn't want me to come with you! It's a party, Marcus. I have to be there!"

Mark ran a hand through his hair, exasperated. "We could buy you a whole new wardrobe, yet you choose to wear that? Am I really giving you permission to wear something so... cropped?"