Mafia's Heartbeat: A Dangerous Love

Chapter - 3

Felix stepped back into the dimly lit bar, the heavy thrum of music enveloping him like a familiar embrace. The scent of whiskey and smoke lingered in the air, mingling with the laughter and chatter that echoed off the walls. His brothers were still gathered around their table, drinks in hand, laughter spilling from their lips as they shared stories and teased one another.

"Look who's back! The infamous Lee Felix!" Heeseung called out, a playful grin spreading across his face. He leaned back in his chair, feigning nonchalance. "So, how did your hookup go? Did you finally find someone worth your time?"

Felix rolled his eyes but couldn't help the smile tugging at his lips. "You could say that," he replied, his mind drifting back to Hyunjin's captivating performance. The image of him dancing on the stage, moving with grace and sensuality, played on a loop in his head. It was enough to make his heart race all over again.

"Is that a good 'say' or a bad 'say'?" Minho chimed in, raising an eyebrow. He set his glass down, leaning forward with interest. "Did you at least get his name?"

Felix took a seat at the table, his brothers' attention locked onto him. "His name is Hyunjin," he said, the name rolling off his tongue like a secret he couldn't quite keep. "He works here as part- timer and he's... different."

"Different how?" Heeseung leaned closer, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Please tell me you didn't just go for a pretty face again."

"No, it's not like that," Felix shot back, his cheeks warming. "He's really sweet and tough. You can tell he's been through a lot. He's not just some toy to play with."

Minho exchanged a knowing glance with Heeseung, their playful banter momentarily quieting. "Sounds like someone has a soft spot," Minho teased, leaning back with a satisfied smirk. "When do we get to meet this 'different' guy?"

Felix sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "I don't know yet. He's considering my offer to be a bodyguard, but... I don't want to rush things."

"Bodyguard? You? Really?" Heeseung chuckled, shaking his head. "You know how to pick 'em, don't you? I can't wait to see this play out. Just be careful. You know how our world works."

"I know," Felix replied, the weight of his brothers' words settling in his chest. "But I feel like there's something special about him. He's not just a means to an end for me. I want to make sure he's safe."

Minho studied Felix intently, his expression turning serious. "Just remember, you can't let emotions cloud your judgment. This isn't just about getting a bodyguard; it's about getting involved with someone who could get hurt if things go south."

"I get it, Minho," Felix said, a hint of frustration in his voice. "But I can't help how I feel. He deserves a chance, and if he's willing to work with me, I'll do everything I can to protect him."

Heeseung raised his glass in a mock toast. "To Felix and his 'different' guy! May he not get killed by the mafia on his first day."

Felix chuckled, the tension easing as he lifted his own glass to join the toast. "To Hyunjin, then."

They clinked their glasses together, the laughter and camaraderie warming Felix's heart. But deep down, he knew that welcoming Hyunjin into their world would come with its challenges, and he would need to tread carefully to protect both of them.