Inferno Hearts | Xu Minghao

44. Panties and Preparations

-ˋˏ ༻ ⚜ ༺ ˎˊ-

The week rushed by, and at long last, saturday dawned – the day of the event. Nabi, inexperienced in such gatherings, couldn't help but feel a thrill of excitement coursing through them.

Meanwhile, the others, well-versed in the covert reason behind their attendance, couldn't shake the subtle tension in the air. They were acutely aware that the success of their plan hinged on flawless execution, their collective breaths held in anticipation as they prepared to ensnare Kim Sunghoon in their intricate trap.

Minghao, however, bore the weight of tension more heavily than anyone else. The entire success of their elaborate plan hinged on meticulous execution. Countless sleepless nights had been devoted to envisioning every possible outcome, every intricate detail. This event—this pivotal moment—loomed in his thoughts like an ever-encroaching storm cloud.

He was acutely aware of the risks he was undertaking, the shadow of danger he cast over Nabi lingering in his thoughts like an unshakable specter. Yet, in his mind, there was no alternative—no other path to trap Kim Sunghoon.

As for Nabi, as long as Minghao stood by her side, he was confident that she would remain untouched. His group was ready to risk everything for this mission, and he was no exception. Minghao knew the danger he was facing, the possibility that Nabi might notice her father, her worst nightmare come true.

But he was willing to risk everything.

Several stylists bustled into the penthouse, laden with a bunch of luggage, racks of exquisite clothing, and an array of makeup supplies—all meticulously prepared by Minghao.

Lia's heart swelled with anticipation as she caught sight of the stylists entering. A rosy blush tinted her cheeks as she hurried toward them, extending a warm welcome. Meanwhile, Minghao descended the stairs in casual outfit, dressed in sweatpants and a plain black shirt, his hands in his pockets, moving with an effortless nonchalance.

Minghao greeted the stylists with a friendly nod. "You can head upstairs, it's the last room on the right," he informed them. "I'll be there shortly," he added with a smile.

Lia's smile faded completely as she heard Minghao directing the stylists to the last room on the right. It wasn't her room, and her heart sank with disappointment.

Lia, meeting Minghao's nonchalant gaze, asked, "Aren't they here for me?"

"No, they're here for Nabi," he replied, his tone matter-of-fact. "I assumed you didn't need their assistance, given your experience with events like these." With that, he turned away, heading back toward the stairs, prepared to leave.

Lia stood there, a mixture of shock and hurt washing over her at Minghao's apparent indifference.

"Oh," he began, turning to face Lia. "If you need a dress, you can choose one after Nabi is ready," he offered before making his way upstairs, leaving Lia standing there, a complex blend of shock and sadness overtaking her.

Jeonghan, seated in the living room, had been keenly observing the entire exchange. He couldn't help but scoff at Minghao's cold demeanor toward Lia. It was evident to him that all of this was due to Nabi.

In that moment, he suddenly realized the urgency of finding a partner. Almost instantly, the perfect person came to mind, and a mischievous smirk curled on his lips.

As the stylists arrived in front of the room Minghao had directed them to, he promptly joined them.

"Come into my room," he instructed, gesturing towards his own, which was notably more spacious than the guest room Nabi occupied. "The young lady will join you shortly," he assured them.