Inferno Hearts | Xu Minghao

73. Tears and Truths

.⋅ ۵♡۵ ⋅.

Weeks had flown by and Minghao and Nabi's bond had deepened beyond measure. They were inseparable, their days infused with an abundance of laughter and an ever-growing love.

The memories of seeing Minghao so genuinely happy reminded the other members of the time when his twin sister, Min, was still with them.

It was during those precious days that Minghao had radiated the same effervescent joy that now blossomed anew in his relationship with Nabi.

It was as if she held the key to unlocking Minghao's true essence, allowing him to embrace life and happiness once again.

Nabi's presence seemed to mend the fractures of Minghao's heart, breathing vitality and warmth back into his world, much like a healing touch.

In Nabi, he found solace and understanding, reigniting a flame within him that he thought had been extinguished forever.

And now, an even more astounding development unfolded before their eyes-

"Nabi, don't let him win!" Jeonghan's enthusiastic shout rang through the air, his eyes sparkling with excitement as he cheered Nabi on during the heated game with Dokyeom.

Everyone was taken aback by the sudden shift in dynamics between Jeonghan and Nabi, given the history of animosity that had once plagued their relationship.

Jeonghan had been the source of so many hurtful actions towards her in the past. However, in a remarkable transformation, he had now become her steadfast ally, always at her side.

He went to great lengths to ensure her victory in every game, sometimes resorting to cunning tactics that he was famous for.

This newfound friendship and support were surprising for everyone, given their history, and it intrigued and puzzled those around them.

Chuckles escaped Jeonghan as he playfully needled Dokyeom, reveling in the situation. "Looks like Nabi's got the upper hand, Dokyeom-ah!" he taunted, thoroughly enjoying Dokyeom's fate of being designated the house-cleaning duty for losing the game.

"Hyung," Dokyeom whined as Nabi made her way over to Jeonghan.

They exchanged a triumphant high five, and a sly wink from Jeonghan confirmed that he had indeed lent a hand, or rather, his cheating skills, again, to ensure Nabi's victory.

Dokyeom, finally grasping the game that had unfolded between the two, couldn't help but interject with a mock scolding. "Hey! Did you both team up against me?" he teased, feigning surprise.

This revelation prompted hearty laughter from both Nabi and Jeonghan.

"Dokyeom-ah, just accept the loss. Now let's grab something to eat. I'm starving," Jeonghan said with a playful grin, attempting to steer the conversation away from the good-natured competition and towards satisfying their appetites.

As they made their way towards the kitchen, the main door suddenly swung open, revealing Lia's unexpected arrival.

The surprise was evident on all three faces, and Nabi couldn't help but sigh internally, struggling to conceal her discomfort.

Meanwhile, Jeonghan and Dokyeom exchanged quick glances, silently acknowledging the shift in dynamics with Lia's presence.

"Lia, what are you doing here?" Jeonghan asked, a hint of confusion in his voice. Lia scoffed and made her way towards them, her gaze unwaveringly fixed on Nabi, an air of tension palpable in the room.

"Now you're best buddies with her?" Lia's voice dripped with disdain as she shot a cold look at Nabi. She shifted her focus to Jeonghan.

"Jeonghan, you've really outdone yourself this time. Associating with the likes of her," she spat out, her anger evident. "Someone like her doesn't deserve the happiness she's parading around with."