Roses and Thorns (Jinlia)

𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘆-𝘀𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻 | what's love without danger?

Book 1, Chapter 27
𝖶𝗁𝖺𝗍’𝗌 𝖫𝗈𝗏𝖾 𝖶𝗂𝗍𝗁𝗈𝗎𝗍 𝖣𝖺𝗇𝗀𝖾𝗋?

During the quiet drive to the Shin family’s exclusive mall, Jisu found herself lost in thought, reflecting on the unsettling encounter with Mrs. Shin that had occurred just days earlier. The warning Mrs. Shin had whispered to her still echoed in her mind, creeping into her thoughts no matter how much she tried to push it away.

Her eyes wandered down to her hand, resting gently on the pillow in her lap. The previous day’s surgery had been necessary to minimize the risk of permanent damage to her knuckles, which had been severely injured. The brace she now wore would be a part of her life for the next four to six weeks. As she thought back on how she had ended up in this situation, a sense of regret washed over her. It felt foolish, and yet, she couldn't help but think that this was the price she had paid for her own recklessness.

Thankfully, she had trained herself to use both hands for tasks like writing, drawing, and painting. The realization brought her a modicum of comfort. At least her hobbies wouldn't be hindered by the consequences of her recent carelessness.

──⇌••⇋──

“Why are we here again?” Jisu asked, stepping out of the car and taking in the imposing view of the mall before them.

Ryujin, deep in thought, didn’t immediately respond. Her neutral expression betrayed nothing, but Jisu could sense the weight of her contemplation.

“My dad was behind the idea for this place,” Ryujin finally said, a sigh slipping from her lips. “I thought it was just another business venture, but it turned out to be something more personal.”

There was sadness in her voice, a mixture of longing and regret. Jisu could feel Ryujin’s desire for justice, her yearning for more moments with her father. She couldn’t help but feel a pang of guilt, wishing she could have intervened, wishing she could have changed things when they were children.

“To him, I was his little princess,” Ryujin continued, her tone thick with emotion. “As his only child, he gave me everything. His time, his love. Even with his busy schedule, he always made time for meㅡwhether it was playing or reading me a bedtime story.” Though her eyes remained dry, the grief in her voice was undeniable. “It’s been years, and I still can’t accept that he’s gone.” Her hand clenched into a fist. “I’m so angry at the man responsible. If I could, I’d bring my father back just to have the satisfaction of ending that man myself.”

Jisu’s heart ached for her. “I’m sure he would’ve been proud of the person you’ve become, even without his guidance,” she offered gently, hoping her words would provide some comfort.

Ryujin quickly shook her head. “Ah, I shouldn’t have brought this up. I’m sorry… I didn’t mean to dampen the mood. Today is about us.”

──⇌••⇋──

“Pick out anything you like,” Ryujin said with a playful glance at Jisu. “This mall belongs to my family, and since you’re my partner, it’s as much yours as it is mine.” Their eyes met, and Ryujin winked at her before looking away, a mischievous glint in her gaze. Jisu couldn’t help but laugh, the tension easing in her chest.

Ryujin’s face flushed slightly as she hurried forward, leaving Jisu trailing behind with a chuckle.

“Wait up, Ryujin!” Jisu called out, quickening her pace. When she caught up, she slipped her arm around Ryujin’s waist, resting her head on her shoulder.

Ryujin’s voice was teasing. “Hey, watch your hand! Don’t forget, it needs time to heal.” Jisu reluctantly withdrew her arm, pouting as she did so. “How about we find you some masculine styles?” Ryujin continued, her tone playful. “I think they'd look amazing on you.”

──⇌••⇋──

“Shopping isn’t exactly thrilling, but did you have fun?” Ryujin asked, glancing at Jisu with a small smile.

Jisu grinned, her smile brightening the space between them. “Nothing’s dull when I’m with you.”

“I love you,” Ryujin whispered, so softly that Jisu could barely hear.

A peaceful silence fell over them as they walked, the only sound was their footsteps. Jisu found herself lost in thought, reflecting on the challenges that lay ahead. But with Ryujin by her side, she felt an overwhelming sense of security. She hoped Ryujin would always be there, steadfast, ready to face whatever came next.

“Ryujin...?” Jisu spoke before she realized it, the words slipping from her lips without warning. Ryujin hummed in response, her attention shifting to Jisu. “Will you look after me?” The question hung in the air, and with it, Mrs. Shin’s warning flashed vividly in her mind.

‘But I’d advise you to always be on your guard from now on.’

Jisu shook her head, trying to push the thought away.

“I will look after you, Jisu. That’s a promise,” Ryujin said softly, her hand gently squeezing Jisu’s.

──⇌••⇋──

As they arrived back at the apartment, Ryujin carefully placed the boxes by the door. “Remember, always lock up when you’re inside, alright?” she reminded, giving Jisu a final, reassuring smile.

Jisu nodded, returning the smile as she stepped inside. Ryujin leaned in, brushing a soft kiss against Jisu’s forehead. “And please, be mindful of your hand.”

“Yes, Miss Shin. I’ll be careful.”

“I’ll head out now. I love you.”

Jisu watched Ryujin leave, a knot of anxiety rising in her chest. She forced herself to shake it off. Come on, Choi Jisu, stop fretting!

“Take care, Ryujin! I love you too! See you soon!”