DANCE WITH THE DEVIL

CHAPTER 28

News of the engagement had spread like wildfire, from the bustling streets of the city to the secret, shadowed territories of the mafia underworld. Areum's face had become the ultimate prize, a secret bounty only the boldest sought to uncover. With a potential alliance in play, the world's most dangerous families were racing to gain leverage over the soon-to-be bride.

The main house was fortified more heavily than ever. Security was air-tight, with triple-guard patrols and strict protocols in place. No one entered or left except for the selected guards, and all external dealings had been paused until after the wedding. Areum could practically feel the walls closing in, suffocating her in her new, tightly guarded life.

"I thought I'd have to dodge landmines and bullets just to get in here. I was actually preparing myself!" Areum grumbled, bursting into Jaemin's office unannounced.

Jaemin's head jerked up, his pen hovering mid-signature as he took in her fiery expression.

"Did I forget an important date?" he asked, half-joking.

"No," Areum huffed, collapsing into the chair across from him. "You've just forgotten me."

Jaemin observed her, noting the pout on her lips and the frustration sparking in her eyes. He set his pen aside and gave her his full attention. "Okay, you're mad."

"Mad? I'm frustrated and bored," she corrected. "I mean, Haechan's always been decent, but now he's practically my shadow. I can't even step out of my room without an escort!"

"As much as I trust my men, Areum, I have to remind you that every mafia in the world would risk everything to get close to you right now."

"Yeah, well, Haechan calls me Rapunzel!"

Jaemin laughed. "The nickname fits the situation. But, chérie, please understand—I just want you safe." He reached over, squeezing her hand. "If it's that bad, I'll tell him to stop calling you that."

Areum rolled her eyes, but her lips twitched. "Like that'll solve anything."

Jaemin tilted his head, patting his lap. "Come here."

Areum stood and walked over, letting him pull her into his lap. He wrapped his arms around her waist, smiling as he studied her face.

"You're still frowning."

"Of course. I haven't talked to Marcus properly in days, my dad just knocks and leaves snacks at my door, and I haven't seen Chenle in two days."

"Chenle's security is nearly as tight as yours, and everyone is doing their best to keep you safe."

Areum sighed. "You all know best, I suppose."

Jaemin chuckled, leaning in to press a gentle kiss on her lips. "Come on, it's past lunch."

"I thought you'd eaten without me!" she teased, though a smile crept onto her face.

"Never," he replied, laughing. "You're on my schedule, Areum; my time is yours. I'll always have a seat for you at my table."

Areum flushed, leaning her head on his shoulder, feeling secure in his embrace. She couldn't imagine a future without this, without him.