DANCE WITH THE DEVIL

CHAPTER 29

Light seeped into Jaemin's room as Areum pulled open the heavy drapes, illuminating the dark, untouched space. The room had felt stifling lately, as if it hadn't seen fresh air or sunlight in days. She pushed open the windows just a bit, inviting the crisp winter air to chase out the lingering shadows. Snow still clung to the ground outside, glittering under the afternoon sky, and a chill swept through the room, refreshing yet biting. It was a stark contrast to the oppressive weight of the past few weeks, a reminder that life continued beyond the walls of this sanctuary.

Areum had planned to check on Chenle and the others, who were likely still immersed in some gaming marathon. She smiled at the thought, remembering the laughter that always filled the room when they were all together. However, a quiet creak of the door made her turn. There was Jaemin, stepping in from a long day, looking impeccable in his suit but with a hint of weariness in his eyes. Seeing her, however, brought a spark back to his face, and an easy smile softened his features.

They met in the middle of the room, embracing with the kind of comfort that felt like home. It was a moment suspended in time, a simple yet profound connection that spoke volumes of their shared history and unspoken promises.

"You opened the windows," he murmured, rubbing her back as they held each other.

"Yeah, your room's been so dark lately," she replied, her voice soft against his shoulder. "I was actually about to head back to Chenle's, but I could stay a little longer if you want."

He smiled, giving her a quick peck on the forehead before heading toward his wardrobe. "Give me a few minutes? I'll just wash up."

"Of course," she replied, watching him disappear into the bathroom.

Areum drifted over to the seating area by the window, settling herself in the little nook and resting her head on her folded arms. The cool air was soothing, and she allowed herself a brief moment of peace, closing her eyes and losing herself in the quiet. Outside, the world felt vibrant and alive, the snow glimmering under the soft sunlight as if urging her to embrace the beauty of the moment.

The soft click of the bathroom door opening brought her back, and she glanced over to see Jaemin emerging, fresh and relaxed but still in his tailored shirt and slacks. For a moment, he stopped, simply watching her from across the room, his gaze warm and tender. Framed against the daylight, Areum looked ethereal, her silver hair glowing, her skin pale against the soft folds of her white dress. Jaemin's heart swelled with an affection he could barely put into words.

Without saying a word, he crossed the room, kneeling in front of her and taking her face in his hands. "You're so beautiful, ma chérie," he murmured, gently brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "I should be thanking my luck that you got lost at my party that night."

Areum laughed softly, her eyes sparkling. "You're thanking me? I think I should be the one doing that right now."

Jaemin grinned. "If you hadn't annoyed me so much back then, we wouldn't be here."

"So, you're proud of me for being annoying?" she teased, her laughter echoing in the quiet space.

He chuckled, his gaze softening further. "Well, it did bring us closer." He held her gaze, voice steady but heartfelt. "Areum Soleen Lee, I think I can finally say this."

He leaned forward, pressing a gentle kiss on her lips before pulling back to meet her eyes again. "I love you."