In a modern city where powerful families control different aspects of the underground world, from business empires to political influence. Joshua's family, known for their wealth and influence, has made numerous enemies over the years, putting Joshua in a vulnerable position.
Joshua's life changes when his father informs him that due to recent threats from rival families, a bodyguard will be assigned to him. Joshua, who values his privacy and independence, is initially resistant to the idea. However, his father's insistence and the severity of the threats leave him no choice.
Joshua was sitting in the family library, surrounded by the comforting presence of his favorite books when the door suddenly opened. His father entered the room, followed closely by a man who immediately captured Joshua's attention. The contrast between the two was striking-his father exuded a composed and authoritative aura, while the man beside him, tall and imposing with an intense gaze, stood out as someone not easily overlooked. "Joshua, this is Kim Mingyu. From now on, he will be your shadow," his father announced, his tone leaving no room for debate. Joshua looked up hesitantly, unsure about this new development. "Father, I really don't think this is necessary. I'm careful; I don't draw attention to myself," he replied, trying to maintain some control over the situation. His father, however, was resolute. "This isn't up for discussion. Mingyu will protect you, whether you like it or not," he insisted, his voice firm. Mingyu, who had remained silent until now, finally spoke, his deep, steady voice resonating with authority. "I'll make sure no harm comes to you, Mr. Hong," Mingyu said, his words carrying an unspoken promise. As he listened, Joshua felt a shiver run down his spine. There was something about the way Mingyu spoke, the way he carried himself, that made Joshua feel small and vulnerable in comparison.
At first, Joshua struggles to adjust to Mingyu's constant presence. The bodyguard is relentless, always watching, always near, even during Joshua's most private moments. This frustrates Joshua, who longs for just a moment alone. "Do you really have to be there every time I go somewhere? I'm just going to the cafe," Joshua exasperatedly asks. Mingyu, unwavering in his duty, replies firmly, "Yes, every time. And that's non-negotiable." Joshua, feeling defeated, sighs, knowing he won't win this argument. Despite his frustrations, Joshua begins to find comfort in Mingyu's unwavering resolve. Mingyu's strength and dependability start to wear down Joshua's defenses, and he begins to see the value in having someone so steadfast by his side.
As time passes, Joshua starts to rely on Mingyu not just for physical protection, but emotionally as well. Mingyu becomes a source of comfort, his dominance something Joshua starts to crave in a world full of uncertainty. Late one night, unable to sleep, Joshua finds himself on the balcony and asks, "Mingyu, do you ever get scared?" Mingyu, standing behind him with arms crossed, replies, "Fear is natural. But I've learned to control it, to use it to my advantage." Joshua, feeling vulnerable, admits, "I wish I could do that... I always feel so... weak." Mingyu, kneeling beside him and looking into his eyes, reassures him, "You're stronger than you think. You've been through more than most, and you're still standing. Don't mistake kindness for weakness, Joshua." In that moment, Joshua realizes that Mingyu sees him in a way no one else does, and it makes his heart pound.
The tension had been building for days. Mingyu had sensed the shift in the atmosphere, the way unknown cars lingered too long near Joshua's usual haunts, and how unfamiliar faces started appearing in places they shouldn't be. He knew it was only a matter of time before the threats against Joshua turned into something more tangible and dangerous.
One evening, after a long day at a business meeting, Joshua and Mingyu were returning to the Hong family estate. The night air was cool, and the city was unusually quiet, but Mingyu's instincts were on high alert. As they walked towards the car parked in a secluded area of the underground garage, Mingyu noticed the subtle signs of a trap-security cameras had been tampered with, and the usually busy garage was eerily empty. Without giving anything away, Mingyu subtly shifted his position, keeping Joshua slightly behind him as they approached the vehicle.
