Picture Perfect | k.th

Chapter 27

Sohee POV

"If anyone moves or speaks, I'm putting a bullet in them," his voice came out coldly, devoid of any emotion.

The victims discreetly got behind me, shaking in fear as they bit back cries of terror. I would be lying if I said that I felt entirely sure of myself as well. That gun pointed straight at my head was the size of my hand and yet it held this overwhelming power over me. It was pitiful.

Hyungseo slowly stalked towards us. Each step giving way to his unfettered anger.

I inhaled sharply as he approached me directly, placing the muzzle of the gun right against my forehead. I tried not to waver, but the cold and deathly muzzle made me anxious.

"You're cornered now...little lamb," he leered. While one hand kept the gun right in my face, the other cupped the side of my face. His hand slowly trailed lower, sending a shiver down my spine. I tried to keep a straight face. Any reaction would only encourage him more or put the others in danger. What have I gotten myself into? "I'm feeling extra generous today, so I think I'll strike a deal with you. I'm exchange for their freedom, right here right now, you become mine. Their paintings are destroyed so they are of no use to me. And I've had a change of heart. I'm a changed man. You were right. It did become about you suddenly. And so, we're going to build a new life together far away. If not, I'll let you go...but they'll be dead at your feet. I'll be gone and you'll be responsible. So what'll it be?"

I bit my lip, his words echoing a cacophony in my head. I had come this far, thinking that I could get through this easily. I was certain nothing would come to harm me or the others so long as I stayed one step ahead of him. And yet, here I was, being asked to make the ultimate choice. My life or theirs. With no help, no backup, and no trace.

I thought about what would remain in my absence. My mother would be completely blindsided, overcome with anguish. She'd probably hound every person known to man just to find me. My father...I guess he'd be worried too. Using his position and every resource he could get his hands on to find me. Haru and Jun would absolutely lose their minds. I hate to think that they'd be worried sick over me. The boys would blame themselves. Jungkook with his big doe eyes and Jin with all the burden of responsibility. And Taehyung...I don't want him to be in anymore pain than what he's already been through.

But, when I thought of the victims cowering right behind me. I wondered how long their families stayed up at night looking for them. Trying every possible avenue to find them. Being hurt by their fabricated selves returned to them. They had suffered far longer and harder than anyone. I wasn't defenseless...but they were.

So,

"Free them. They don't deserve this anymore. And in exchange...I will be yours."

For at least a little while until I figure out a way to free myself. Perhaps I was a little scared but I am not going to give up or cower away. He will not earn the satisfaction he thinks he is.

He smirked sinisterly, "Aha! That is just too good. I got you to grovel, my sweet rose petal. Very well! I shall let them go, and we shall depart for a new land as soon as possible, just you and me. We can paint for hours by the seaside, and love passionately until the world fades." His hot breath brushed against my ear. He was too close. I was...uncomfortable. I tried to pull back, but he only grabbed me up and spun me towards him until I was caught in his arms with the gun to my head. "You fools...your torment on me shall no longer plague my mind. I have a grander goal. I'll see you someday soon, but until then, I shall grant you your freedom. Just don't tell anyone what has happened, okay? Or do. I don't really care anymore."