DANCE WITH THE DEVIL

CHAPTER 27

Waking up with a ring on her finger felt surreal to Areum, like a dream she hadn't fully let herself imagine until now. She turned her hand, watching how the ring caught the light—a simple, elegant promise from the man she trusted with her life.

Areum knew she wasn't an easy person. She wore her wildness like a crown, her words sharp and often laced with sarcasm, her gaze able to unnerve and seduce in equal measure. She was trouble, and she knew it. But somehow, she'd managed to capture the heart of a man like Jaemin, a devil by reputation, yet capable of warmth and loyalty. Together, they'd carved out a space for themselves, one red-stained step at a time.

Before, Areum didn't care what her life amounted to, but now, with Jaemin beside her, she felt a purpose she'd fight to the grave to protect.

"You're up," Jaemin's voice pulled her from her thoughts. "Strange, isn't it? We used to share this bed when we were just allies, yet now that we're engaged, we're in separate rooms."

Areum laughed, rising to meet him halfway and planting a quick kiss on his lips. "Morning."

"Morning. How's Chenle?" he asked, glancing at her younger brother, who was still asleep on the couch.

"He cried himself to sleep," she said softly. "I can't imagine what his mother was thinking."

"Unfortunately, she's been influenced by her family. They're connected with Nakamoto's allies. The family that took care of my brother is loyal, but the others..." he trailed off, lifting a hand to gently cup her cheek. "How are you feeling?"

"Oddly, I feel like you've been extra sweet lately," Areum teased, eyes gleaming.

Jaemin chuckled. "Chérie, I've always been nice to you."

"Well, aside from the months you pushed me away."

He sighed, knowing he'd brought it on himself. "We're going to keep bringing that up, huh?"

Areum tiptoed, giving him a playful kiss on the nose. "I'd better, if it means I get this version of you."

"I wish I could stay by your side today, but there's an avalanche of paperwork waiting for me in the office."

She pouted. "Can I at least visit?"

"Only if you don't distract me," he said, pinching her nose. "But remind me about lunch—we can eat together."

She beamed. "It's a date."

He pulled her close, wrapping her in a warm embrace. "Thank you for saying yes, Areum."

She chuckled, feeling the steady beat of his heart. "Thank you for asking." They both knew they didn't have to say it yet—the way they looked at each other was more than enough.

Later, Areum found herself on the training grounds. Her presence commanded attention, as she passed by rookies in training, nodding to familiar faces. She noticed Haechan, one of the most talented assassins, teaching a group. He caught her gaze and gave her a nod, acknowledging her while he finished his demonstration.

She was about to move on when a rookie's blade swung dangerously close to her. Quick reflexes saved her, but the nearby recruits fell silent, their attention frozen.

"I'm so sorry! I didn't mean—" the rookie stammered, bowing repeatedly in shame.

"Don't worry, it's fine—"

"Shotaro, is it?" Haechan's sharp voice cut in, his expression dark. "Do you realize you almost struck your lady?"

The rookie's face went pale. "I'm so sorry! I wasn't paying attention!"

"It's a training ground," Areum interjected gently. "I should've been more aware."

Haechan's frown deepened as he addressed Shotaro. "It's never just you and your target. We work as a team, and if you're careless, you risk hurting one of us."

"Haechan, that's enough," Areum said firmly, offering Shotaro a reassuring smile. "How long have you been here?"

"Two weeks, my lady."

"Keep practicing, and one day, you'll move as silently as the wind," she chuckled, patting his shoulder. "But be careful, alright?"

The rookie managed a small nod, biting back tears as Areum turned to leave, with Haechan falling into step behind her.

"I could feel your anger from across the field," she said lightly.

"You were almost hurt. Do you realize I could've lost my rank if anything happened to you?"

"Is that the only reason you're mad? That you'd be demoted?" she asked with a smirk.

"Don't twist my words," Haechan grumbled, stopping as he noticed the ring glinting on her finger. His expression softened with concern. "Areum... are you really ready for this?"

"For what?"

"You're not marrying an ordinary man," he said, his voice low. "Running a household with Jaemin... it's not like anything else."

Her smile wavered slightly, but she nodded. "I know. But it's different, Haechan. I'm not marrying him out of duty or politics. I know he values me as much as I do him."

He sighed, his eyes clouded. "Just... know what you're getting into, alright? If things ever go sideways, don't hesitate. Run."

She raised a brow. "You're scaring me a bit, Lee."

"As I should," he replied, his voice uncharacteristically somber. "You're not just risking a future—you're betting your life."

Areum placed a hand on his shoulder, her voice softening. "Thank you, Haechi. You've always looked out for me. I hope you'll stay by my side, even if things change." She squeezed his arm, then pulled away. "But for now, I have a lunch date with Jaemin."

Haechan watched her go, feeling an odd sense of foreboding. Watching her disappear, he shook his head, a grim smile playing at his lips.

You're the one risking it all here, Lee Haechan, he thought. Betting your life on the devil himself.