DANCE WITH THE DEVIL

CHAPTER 18

Christmas was just two days away, and for Areum, it felt surreal to celebrate the holiday in this way for the first time. Stress and uncertainty hung in the air as she hung ornaments on the tree, her mind swirling with half-formed thoughts.

"Are you judging me, or do you want to place the star yourself?" Chenle raised an eyebrow, effortlessly positioning the star atop the tree.

"That's just so childish!" Areum retorted, trying to mask her frustration.

"And whining while hanging up ornaments isn't?" Chenle shot back, a playful smirk dancing on his lips.

"I'm not whining; I'm just—" she paused, exhaling a sigh. "Are we even buying gifts this year?"

Chenle hummed thoughtfully. "Aren't you buying with Renjun this year?"

"Huh?" The realization struck her, and she smacked her forehead lightly. "Oh right! We did have that deal."

Chenle frowned, crossing his arms. "Seriously, where have you been? You've been out of it lately."

"Jaemin and the marriage thing," Areum muttered, a hint of exasperation in her voice.

Their eyes met, and suddenly, a wave of laughter bubbled up from Areum as she tossed an empty box of decorations aside.

"Bye!" she managed between giggles.

Christmas.

It was a time when warmth blanketed the coldness of winter and love triumphed over the chaos of everyday life.

This year felt different for Areum. With Renjun away in China for the holidays and Jeno back in his hometown, the Lee household was bustling with unique festivities. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and joy, but it held a different significance this time around. Soohyun was set to formally introduce Areum and Chenle to the organization—a step taken for their full protection.

"Welcome, Lady Soleen," Haechan greeted her with a grin, his charm lighting up the room.

"Thank you!" Areum exclaimed, turning to face him.

Haechan chuckled. "Grateful for the greeting or for being saved from those chatty men?"

"You're mean! Jisung and his crew are nice, but they just wouldn't stop talking about earpieces and trackers. Ugh! Look, Jisung even gave me this!" She excitedly showed off the basic technical kit, like a child with a new toy. "I like this earpiece; it's black but feels so cool, you know?"

"Yeah, I can see Jisung went all out to make it classy," Haechan teased. "The boss is nothing if not detailed."

"What?" Areum quipped, raising an eyebrow.

"Nothing," he replied with a smirk. "And while I can't give you a gift just yet, I'll make sure you're secured from behind—even if you can't see me."

"Creepy! Imagine having someone tailing you from behind, kidnapping anyone who wants to approach you," Areum replied with a scoff.

"That I would imagine," Haechan laughed, stepping back as another familiar figure approached.

"Enjoy the party, Lady Soleen," Haechan bowed and made his exit.

Areum turned to find Jaemin standing there, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "It suits you," he said, the closeness causing her to lose her balance slightly.

In an almost cinematic moment, his hand shot out to steady her as a sweet, romantic melody began to play. Jaemin's grin widened as he helped her regain her footing, their chemistry palpable in the air.

"A dance?" he offered, his tone inviting yet teasing.

Areum glanced around at the couples swaying to the music, her heart racing. "What's with the sudden introduction? I thought you didn't want me getting tied up in the organization more."

"Technically, it's your dad's decision," Jaemin replied, taking her hand and placing his other on her waist, leading her to the center of the dance floor.

"What about Marcus?" Areum pressed, her brows furrowing with curiosity.

"What do you think his reaction is?" Jaemin replied with a chuckle.

"Probably all mad and nagging," she replied, rolling her eyes.

Jaemin laughed softly. "At first, yeah. But once they discussed the benefits, he calmed down a bit."

"Benefits?" Areum questioned, her intrigue piqued.

He twirled her gently, his gaze unwavering. "You'll know soon enough."

"Why can't I know anything right now?" she retorted, annoyance creeping into her voice. "I have a right to know."

"Soon," he promised, his expression earnest.

Frustration flared within her as she clicked her tongue and halted their movements, her irritation palpable. Jaemin sighed, his grip firm yet gentle as he drew their foreheads together.

"Protection for you and Chenle is one of the reasons," he said softly.

"And the other?" she pressed, searching his eyes for answers.

"That's the main point," he replied, a playful yet serious glint in his eyes.

"Last time we talked, you mentioned marriage. Now it feels like you're either joking or taking advantage of me liking you."

"How much do you like me?" Jaemin countered, his playful demeanor returning.

"That's not the topic!" Areum shot back, flustered.

"I want to know," he insisted, leading their dance again with a smooth elegance. "But I'd like to continue this first."

"I don't even know if I like you that much. You're confusing as hell! One day you tell me I deserve better, and the next you're all smiley and holding me like this," she exclaimed, exasperated.

"Admit it, you should be proud. You're dancing with me," Jaemin teased.

"Well, I'm dancing with one heck of a devil," Areum quipped.

He leaned in closer, a devilish grin on his face. "You like this devil."

A soft blush crept onto her cheeks as she fought the urge to smile. "You really think so?"

"I know so," he replied, his tone turning serious. "And I think you'll like what's coming next. Just trust me."

As they danced, surrounded by the festive atmosphere and the warmth of the holiday, Areum couldn't shake the feeling that this Christmas would change everything. The twinkling lights, the soft laughter of friends, and the deepening bond with Jaemin wrapped around her like a cozy blanket, reminding her that sometimes, amidst all the chaos, something could bloom unexpectedly—even in the most unconventional circumstances.