Deadly Devotion | Heesunsun

Chapter 31 | S1: In Love With A Criminal

Sunoo's POV

"I...I love you too," the words lingered in the air, vulnerable and uncertain. As I uttered them, I couldn't deny the flicker of warmth that accompanied the confession, yet doubts lingered like shadows.

Heeseung's eyes searched mine, probing for the authenticity of my words. "Is it genuine, Sunoo?" he asked, a hint of vulnerability breaking through the composed exterior.

I hesitated, grappling with the conflicting emotions swirling within. "I don't know," I admitted, a truth as raw as the bruises that adorned my skin.

Heeseung's response surprised me, instead of anger or frustration, he pulled me into a gentle embrace. Heeseung's hold on me tightened slightly, but not in a threatening way. It was a gesture of comfort, of understanding. He sighed, his warm breath brushing against my ear as he spoke.

"I've caused you so much pain, Sunoo," he said softly, his voice laced with regret. "It's no wonder you're conflicted about your feelings. But I want you to know that I'm willing to do whatever it takes to make amends. I'll take my time too, to be the husband you deserve. A-And I'll prove my love through my actions, not just words."

As he pulled away, a subtle sincerity lingered in his eyes. He left the room, promising to fetch ice for my bruises. Alone, I pondered the paradox of my emotions, how could I harbor affection for the man who had caused me so much pain? Am I a psycho? Or a person who is just in love?

Heeseung returned with a bag of ice, the intensity in his eyes now softened. As he tended to my injuries, his harsh edges seemed to soften, replaced by a genuine concern. He began to treat my injuries with a tenderness that contradicted the violence of moments ago.

"Why do I love you?" I voiced the question that echoed within, my eyes searching his for an answer.

Heeseung paused, his gaze meeting mine. "Love is complicated, Sunoo. Sometimes, it defies reason. But I promise, I'll strive to make you feel that love without the pain."

We sat in a heavy silence, the weight of our shared history hanging between us. In the vulnerability of that moment, a tentative understanding began to bloom.

Heeseung's tender gestures continued, each touch a silent promise of change. As he applied the ice, his fingers brushed over my skin with a delicate touch, an unspoken apology in every caress.

"Sunoo," he began softly, "I never wanted to hurt you. I know my actions were unforgivable, but I'm willing to do whatever it takes to make things right."

His words, layered with sincerity, prompted a spark of vulnerability within me. "How can I trust you?" I questioned, my gaze searching his eyes for a glimpse of the sincerity he promised.

Heeseung took a moment before responding, "Trust is earned, I understand that now. And I'll spend every day proving that you can trust me again."

His determination resonated, but doubt lingered like a stubborn stain. Heeseung seemed to sense it, and with a gentle smile, he cupped my face in his hands. "Let me show you," he murmured before leaning in, capturing my lips in a lingering kiss.

The kiss was different from the possessive embraces of the past, this one held a newfound softness, a plea for understanding.

Heeseung pulled back, his gaze locked onto mine. "I want to be the person you deserve, Sunoo," he confessed, his vulnerability exposed. "I'll do everything in my power to make you happy."

I can't believe I'm doing it but... I'm counting on him.

Sunghoon's POV

"Jake, Jay," I called out from the doorway, stepping into our dorm room. Jay was sprawled on the couch, engrossed in a game, while Jake was on his laptop, probably watching another random video.