SIREN | Newjeans

Sixth

The room was covered in darkness, except for a single beam of light that gently illuminated the couple standing in the center. Minji and Hanni stood facing each other, their eyes locked in a gaze filled with love and warmth. Their smiles were soft but full of meaning, and it felt like, in that moment, nothing else mattered but the love they shared. The guests watched silently, captivated by the couple, as the priest's calm voice asked them to join hands.

"May I?" Minji asked softly, her voice filled with affection as she held out her hand toward Hanni. Hanni's eyes shone with joy as she smiled widely, nodding and placing her hand in Minji's. "Yes," she whispered, her heart beating a little faster.

For a moment, the two simply looked at each other, their hearts connected. Hanni's voice was gentle as she said, "I still can't believe how everything worked out for us ." Her words were full of wonder, as if she was amazed by how smoothly everything had come together for them.

Minji didn't need to reply with words—her eyes spoke for her, full of love and understanding. She smiled softly, her expression saying everything Hanni needed to hear.

"Neither can I," Minji whispered, her voice barely above a breath, but heavy with meaning.

The priest's voice broke through the quiet moment, signaling for them to begin their vows. Standing nearby, Dani watched her sister with pride and joy. She had always dreamed of seeing Minji happy like this, and now, it was finally happening. Dani's hands were clasped together at her chin, her heart swelling with emotion, and her father stood beside her, feeling the same sense of pride. But as Dani looked over to Haerin, her own soon-to-be partner, she noticed something different. Haerin stood with a calm, almost indifferent expression, sipping her wine, her sharp eyes giving nothing away. Dani's joy was mixed with confusion. Was Haerin not happy about this? Why had she proposed the marriage if she seemed so distant?

After Minji and Hanni exchanged their vows, sealing their love with heartfelt promises, the priest smiled warmly and declared, "You may now kiss the bride." Minji and Hanni leaned in and shared a sweet, soft kiss, and the room erupted into cheers and applause. The couple exchanged blushing glances, their faces glowing with happiness as the guests celebrated around them.

Next, it was Haerin and Dani's turn. The same beam of light fell on them, but the energy felt different. Dani glanced nervously at Haerin, hoping for a kind gesture, but Haerin simply adjusted her collar and walked forward without looking at her. Dani followed, her heart racing as she stood beside Haerin, her hands trembling slightly.

"You must ask for her hand," the priest reminded Haerin gently, waiting for her to follow the tradition. Haerin smiled slightly, her eyes flashing with something unreadable.

"Of course," she said smoothly, "but our rituals are a bit different." The room grew quiet, curiosity filling the air. Haerin's words seemed to make everyone pause. Dani's father, Alaric, furrowed his brow, confused, while Draven, Haerin's father, smirked, as though he already knew what was about to happen.

"What kind of ritual?" the priest asked, his tone cautious.

Without hesitation, Haerin reached into her coat and pulled out a small, sharp knife. The sight of the blade made the room gasp in shock. Dani's eyes widened, and her heart raced even faster.

"Give me your hand," Haerin said softly, her voice calm but firm, a slight smile playing on her lips. Dani looked around the room, panic rising in her chest. She glanced at Minji and their father, both looking just as confused as she was.

"I said, give me your hand, Danielle," Haerin repeated, this time more forcefully. Dani hesitated, but slowly offered her hand, her pulse pounding in her ears. Before she could think, Haerin grabbed her hand and made a small cut across her palm. Dani gasped in pain, her eyes wide in shock. Just as her father and Minji started to step forward, Haerin made a cut on her own palm and pressed their bleeding hands together, entwining their fingers.