SKYFALL ↠ Haechan ✔

XX

CHAPTER  XX : Conspiracies Unveiled

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- A Day Before-

Admist of the safehouse's bustling activities, Areum and Hanni found a moment of respite in a cozy corner of the living area. The soft glow of dimmed lights and the muffled sounds of conversations provided a backdrop for their much-needed bonding time.

Areum sat comfortably on the couch, a steaming cup of tea in hand. She gestured to the empty spot beside her "Come, have a seat. It's time for a breather"

Hanni sank onto the couch beside Areum, a sigh of relief escaping her lips. The weight of their responsibilities seemed to momentarily lift in the presence of someone who understood the challenges they faced.

Areum offered Hanni a warm smile as she took a sip of her tea "You've been handling everything well, Hanni"

Hanni smiled back, gratitude evident in her expression "Coming from you, that means a lot. But I still have loads to learn"

Areum leaned back, her gaze thoughtful "You know, navigating this world isn't easy, especially for someone as young as you. But you've proven your strength and determination"

Hanni's fingers traced the rim of her own tea cup, her gaze distant "It's been a journey. And I've had good role models."

Areum's eyes held a mixture of curiosity and understanding "Your brother, Haechan, was quite the figure in our world"

Hanni nodded, a mixture of pride and nostalgia in her voice "He taught me a lot – about loyalty, about protecting what's important, and about staying true to oneself"

Areum's lips quirked in a small smile "Sounds like he left quite an impression"

Hanni's expression softened as she nodded. "He did. And I hope to honor his legacy by making a positive impact"

Hanni's gaze held an unspoken appreciation. "Your determination to do the right thing, it's admirable"

Areum leaned forward, her voice more casual "You know, with all the chaos, it's important to find moments of normalcy. Moments that remind us that we're still human"

Hanni's lips curved in a small smile "I think i've had enough normalcy throughout my days in Australia" She laughed

Areum's eyes sparkled with mischief "So, what do you do for fun?"

Hanni chuckled "Are you kidding me? Partying of course!"

Areum laughed "Wow she's a party girl alright"

Suddenly a phone call came up in Areum's phone, interrupted their laughter. It was Yoona. She immediately picked it up

"Unnie?" She started. As Yoona talked, she nodded "Alright, i'll be there" And she hung up

"I'm sorry, Hanni. I have to go. It was nice talking to you" She said and they both hugged before Areum left.

-

"Hey, i'm glad you're here," Yoona came rushing to Areum and hugged her "Hey unnie, what happened?" Areum asked

Yoona pulled from the hug and stared at Areum with an apologetic expression "Your father is waiting for you in his study" She said and Areum nodded feeling weird.

The whole way to his study Areum kept on questioning why Yoona made that face but she didn't voice it out.

-

She entered his study to find Han Mi So, sitting on his lap.

"What the fuck is she doing here" Areum sat rigidly on one of the long couches, her father's stern countenance across his desk.

Han Mi So let out a dark chuckle "Oh come on, Areum. It's our first time meeting each other, don't be so rude" She stood up and walked to Areum to offer a handshake.

Areum stared at her figure infront of her and her gaze traveled to her hands "I'm not interested" Areum said sarcastically.

Mi So scoffed at Areum's attitude "What a bitc-"
She was about to finish her sentence when Areum cut her off

"A bitch? No i think you're the bitch here" Areum said, smirking. Mi So was about to slap her when Minwoo interrupted

"Stop now, both of you"

Minwoo walked to the both of them and sat on his couch.

"Areum, the upcoming gala, I want you to attack Haechan and the rest of the Lee Syndicate. Our side and Mi So's side are ready for war"

A furrow deepened on Areum's forehead as she leaned forward "Excuse me?"

Leaning in, her father locked eyes with her, his smirk clear as day "You really think this marriage is for us to be allied to them?"

"Appa.. What do you mean" Areum's voice trembled

"Such a naive little girl" Mi So chuckled, sipping her wine "I don't think you know who I am, Areum. Maybe this will explain everything. Come in!" Mi So called someone from the outside.

At that moment, time went by slow for Areum. Her breathing quickened, scared who might show up behind that huge wooden door. The door finally opened and Areum stood up in shock.

"Hi mom," He started

"Surprised to see me, Areum?"

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Hm the three unknown
people are now revealed :)

Love,
hyucgf.