DANCE WITH THE DEVIL

CHAPTER 22

The tension between Areum and Jaemin grew stronger with each meeting. Their closeness was undeniable, with lingering glances and the unspoken understanding between them that could no longer be ignored. Those who paid attention knew something serious was unfolding.

"We're just... messing around," Areum said nonchalantly, popping a grape into her mouth. "Besides, it's clear that we're starting to like each other."

Mark sighed heavily. "Areum, I told you—don't get involved with him."

She smirked. "Marcus, I'm alive because of him. Even if it's only because he owes our family, you know there's more to it this time. You, of all people, would know—you're practically his shadow."

"That doesn't mean I'm ready to hand you over. He's dangerous."

"And you're not handing me over; you're trusting him with me."

"Areum, marriage isn't something to be decided so easily. Just because you think he cares doesn't mean you're meant to tie your lives together."

"If things get worse and a marriage protects me, what choice will you have? The target's on me. And if marriage does happen, I'll make sure it's something real. I don't want to marry just for protection. I want a family worth fighting for. If we find that, even in this chaos, at least it'll mean something."

Mark sighed, reluctant but defeated, struggling to balance protectiveness with understanding.

The silence broke with the sound of approaching footsteps. Mark stood as Jaemin entered, their eyes locking in silent tension before Mark walked out, leaving Areum and Jaemin alone.

"Is something wrong?" he asked, sitting beside her.

She shrugged. "Just the usual brother-sister conversation."

"He looked worried. Is it about you staying here?"

She hummed in agreement. "More like, he's worried I'll get hurt because of you."

Jaemin gave a small nod, then patted his lap. Areum moved to straddle him, her lips curling into a playful smile. "Should I apologize in advance?"

"For what?" she asked, feigning innocence.

"For not letting you go." His thumb brushed her lip, his hand cradling her cheek. "We've made a deal."

"And I feel like I've struck a deal with the devil," she chuckled, though her heart skipped at the warmth in his gaze.

For the first time, Jaemin allowed a trace of tenderness to show. Areum's heart raced, feeling something she hadn't before—a glimpse of his guarded soul.

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The race ended in a blaze of glory, Jaemin securing yet another trophy as the crowd roared his name. Areum pushed through the throngs, eager to reach him, ignoring the glares and muttered curses from those she elbowed aside.

But as she reached the front, her smile faded. Standing next to Jaemin, basking in the flash of cameras, was a female racer clinging to his arm.

"Are you two back together?" a reporter shouted, sparking a flurry of excitement from the crowd.