In Another's Skin

Embered Coercion

Chapter 16: (Aaira's pov)
22 July, 2025.

I woke up to the sound of hurried steps outside my room. Blinking groggily, I saw it was already evening. I had slept through the entire afternoon, something I rarely did. My body was heavy with fatigue and my mind clouded with confusion, why would I sleep so long ? Why are these hurried steps so disturbing ?

Aaira: What's happening?

I whispered to myself, trying to shake off the remnants of sleep. I looked out of the window, the view offering a momentary distraction from my thoughts. The sky was painted with hues of pink and orange, the sun beginning its descent. The garden below was bathed in the soft, golden light of the setting sun.

In the garden, the old man was busy tending to his plants, his back bent as he carefully pruned the roses. The sight was strangely calm. For a moment, I envied his simple, peaceful routine.

But the hurried steps continued, and my curiosity got the better of me. I slowly made my way downstairs towards the kitchen. As I reached the bottom of the stairs, the old woman appeared.

Old Woman: You're finally awake.

Aaira: What's going on?

I asked,

Old Woman: We have some visitors.

Her response was terse, offering no further explanation. My heart skipped a beat. Could it be Jungkook? Had he finally come for me? I got so excited.

I quickly hurried towards the living room, the anklet I used to wear making a soft, jingling sound with each step. As I reached the room, I saw a middle-aged woman sitting there, her posture stiff and formal. My heart sank with disappointment; it wasn't Jungkook.

The old woman followed behind me.

Old Woman: Meet my friend, Y/n.

She took a sigh as she looked at me with a smile, before putting her hands on both my shoulders, pushing me further.

Old Woman: I'd like you to meet Mrs. Park and her son, Minhyuk.

Mrs. Park offered a polite smile, while Minhyuk gave a small nod, looking slightly uncomfortable.

Mrs. Park: It's a pleasure to meet you, Y/n. My son Minhyuk has heard so much about you.

I nodded cautiously, still confused about the purpose of their visit. The old woman didn't waste any time getting to the point.

Old Woman: We are settling your marriage with these people. Minhyuk will be your husband.

I stared at her in disbelief, what does she mean by that ? Is she even in her right senses ?

Aaira: What? You can't be serious.

Old woman: Y/n we will talk about this later, not here, please understand.

I looked at her with disbelief, my heart pounding in my chest, what in the hell was happening to me ?

Aaira: Marriage proposals? I'm already married! Have you lost your mind, Woman ?

The middle-aged woman exchanged a quick glance with the old woman before turning her attention back to me.

Old Woman: You need to stop this nonsense, Y/n. You are not married. This is for your future.

She really expected me to accept this thing? That Minhyuk guy spoke up for the first time, as he saw my distress.

Minhyuk: I'm sorry, I guess you're pranking us-

Aaira: Shut up !

I shouted, ever before he could continue his sentence.

Aaira: Listen, Mrs. Moon, Mrs. Park and you.