DANCE WITH THE DEVIL

CHAPTER 21

Jaemin wished, in that moment, that he could go deaf or that someone would urgently call him away from the conversation unfolding before him. He could feel Areum's gaze burning into the back of his head, as if she were trying to carve the secrets from his mind.

Honestly, the last thing Jaemin wanted was to marry. Why would he—a source of danger himself—ever want to bring someone else into that chaos? He knew that at least one person would willingly sacrifice everything for him, but he couldn't bear the thought of causing her pain or regret if something went wrong.

Deep down, he understood that he could protect whoever that person might be. He had sworn to himself that anyone who dared to threaten what was his would face the consequences without mercy. But now, as the feared Jaemin Devon Na looked into Areum's eyes, doubt began to creep in. Could he truly stand by her without causing harm? Could he touch her without leaving scars?

"That's why you asked me before—what would I think about marrying you?" Areum pressed, her voice steady.

"Just a random question," he deflected, though his heart raced.

"Also with our families forming an alliance and all that."

"Just a random situation!"

"That's not what you told Dad," she countered, shaking her head. "You're willing to marry me to protect me."

"If something bad happens, yes," Jaemin replied, feeling the weight of her scrutiny.

"What if nothing bad happens? Would you still not marry me?"

His brows furrowed, and he sighed. "Are you really concerned about that? About me not marrying you?"

"I mean, we're both single," she replied nonchalantly.

Jaemin let out an incredulous laugh, unable to believe the conversation was unfolding this way.

"I'm nervous for nothing," he thought.

"So, is something bad coming?" he asked, his curiosity piqued.

"Chérie, why would you want to marry me?"

"Because I... like you?" she admitted, a hint of vulnerability in her tone.

"Don't people marry for love?"

She rolled her eyes playfully. "Well, it'll turn into that if you're just good to me."

"You can't tell me to be good to you."

"Clearly, I can," she challenged, a teasing smirk spreading across her face. "I'm the lady of this house."

He chuckled, unable to suppress a grin. "It's just—"

"And I'm your girlfriend," she cut him off, her words hanging in the air and momentarily stunning him. "So be good to me, boyfriend."

With a confident stride, she walked past him, her heeled shoes clicking on the floor, leaving Jaemin both amused and slightly bewildered. Yeah, great.

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Areum Soleen Lee was indeed a formidable contender. Ever since she caught wind of the marriage deal, she had been relentless in her pursuit of Jaemin's attention.