CHAPTER 6: Curiosities

behold the ✨ abs trilogy ✨

also known as the fever series😂

JU JI-HOON as WOO CHAE-WOON Blood Free | 지배종 (2024)

Trauma Code: A Hero in Love

genre: workplace romance, comedy, mutual pinning, slow-burn, banter, suggestive

A series of one-shot stories between Dr. Baek Kang Hyuk (Ju Jihoon) and Dr. Song Hye Joo (Song Hyekyo)

When Dr. Baek’s former med school rival, Dr. Song Hyejoo, joins the trauma center team, his usual composure is shaken—just a little competitive, and maybe a little shy. As they face emergencies together, they learn to work in sync, and they rediscover something they never dared explore before.

This will be a series of one-shot stories between Dr. Baek Kang-hyuk and Dr. Song Hye-joo (my OC; played by Song Hyekyo, because why not. Also I badly need the casting directors to pair them for a romcom or melo drama together 👉🏻👈🏻).

It’s not a story where everything is in chronological order or a continuation of what happened to the previous chapters. It’s like a series of moments.

Might include a chapter with their backstory in university and when they met again after many years when Dr. Song is introduced as the new addition to the trauma center team before I upload a series of chapter moments between them ><

I tried to keep Dr. Baek Kang-hyuk’s character as similar and accurate as I can, but you know what, 🎀 I’m just a girl 🎀 who wants to see him be a little clumsy and shy around his (secret) crush. So if it’s a little inaccurate or if you think it’s out of character, then I’m so sorry asdfsghjkg ;—; but isn’t it fun to imagine the cool (sexy) hot-tempered doctor become a fool in love for someone? Like a total loser. Frankly it’s my favorite character trope. He’s all mean and scowly with other people, and then he absolutely melts and malfunctions when a beautiful, strong, and intelligent woman (a.k.a his long-time crush) comes near him.

Anyway, I hope you guys enjoy it!!🥹 I’ve already written A LOT of random chapters. And I might also include a little bit of nsfw, or maybe just suggestive, IDK I have no experience in writing sensual scenes, I feel like it’s gonna sound cringey when I do it wish me luck🥲👍🏻

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter List:

1.1 Early Symptoms of Trouble 1.2 Side Effects May Include... 1.3 Cardiac Complications

Flashback 1: Brief Encounters at Med School Flashback 2: Reunion in the Trauma Bay Flashback 3: Check His Vitals— She's Back

2.1 Diagnosis - Obvious 2.2 Late Night Consultations - Catching Up

3.1 A Prescription for Lunch 3.2 White Coats & Warm Blankets

4.1 The Mom & Dad of the Trauma Center 4.2 Code Blue - Parental Unit 4.3 When Dr. Dad Noticed 4.4 When Dr. Mom Noticed

Hi everyone! Will start uploading chapters this week! Does anyone want to be included in the taglist? ><

UNSPOKEN (말하지 않은)

genre: romance, slow-burn, fluff, angst, sexual tension, mutual pining

CHAPTER 1: A Thorn in Her Side

When Chairman Hong assigns Woo Chaewoon to his granddaughter, Hong Haein, she resents the intrusion. Cold, stubborn, and fiercely independent, she refuses to make his job easy—but Chaewoon isn’t the type to back down.

Woo Chaewoon had been many things—a soldier, a strategist, a ghost in the field. Before stepping into the polished halls of Queens Group, he had served in the 707th Special Mission Group, one of South Korea’s most elite special forces. His skills in infiltration, combat, and intelligence had caught the attention of the National Intelligence Service (NIS), who had recruited him for black ops and undercover missions.

His missions had taken him across borders, through warzones, and deep into enemy lines where failure meant death. He had extracted high-value targets, dismantled covert operations, and played the part of both ally and enemy. Every mission had been precise, every target a calculated move.

Now, he was here. Playing the role of a bodyguard.

His real mission? Gain Chairman Hong’s trust and uncover the secrets buried beneath Queens Group.

But then, without warning, the chairman had reassigned him. “You’ll be watching over Haein now,” the old man had said with an air of finality. “Be her shadow.”

Chaewoon had not questioned it, but he understood what it meant.

And that made her his problem to solve.

Hong Haein was the granddaughter of Chairman Hong and the woman currently managing Queens Department, one of the company’s most profitable divisions. She had built a reputation for being ruthless in business—uncompromising, meticulous, and cold. Every decision she made was calculated, every word spoken with precision.

People whispered about her, called her the ‘Ice Queen’ of Queens Group. But Chaewoon knew better than to take surface impressions at face value.

Chairman Hong was watching her closely, too. Not just as a granddaughter, but as a successor. And if he thought she needed a bodyguard, it meant only one thing—she was in danger.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The moment Hong Haein walked into the room, Woo Chaewoon knew exactly what kind of person she was.

Cold. Composed. Untouchable.

She was dressed in an elegant white suit, her heels clicking against the marble floor with a practiced grace. She barely acknowledged anyone in the room—until her grandfather gestured toward him.

“This is Woo Chaewoon,” Chairman Hong announced. “Your new bodyguard.”

Haein stopped mid-step. Slowly, she turned to face him, her gaze sharp, assessing.

“I don’t need a bodyguard,” she said flatly.

Chaewoon didn’t react, keeping his posture straight, expression unreadable. He had expected this.

Her grandfather sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. He knew this was going to be difficult. “Haein, this isn’t up for discussion.”

And he did. Better than anyone. Haein despised having people constantly around her. She kept only one secretary, ensured the house staff entered her space only when she was away, and already considered having a personal driver an unnecessary imposition. She had tolerated bodyguards before, but the suffocating presence of someone monitoring her every move, reporting back to her grandfather and parents, shadowing her day and night—it exhausted her. She hated it.

Haein scoffed; arms crossed. “Why? Do you think I can’t handle myself?”

Her grandfather sighed, rubbing his temple. “This isn’t about capability. It’s about precaution.”

“I don’t need a watchdog,” she said, frustration edging her voice. “I’ve been running the department without anyone breathing down my neck. Why change things now?”

Chairman Hong’s gaze sharpened. “Because the higher you climb, the more enemies you make.” He leaned forward, voice quieter but heavier. “And you, Haein, are being watched.” She stilled, her jaw tightening. “By who?”

“If I knew that, I wouldn’t need him shadowing you,” he said simply, gesturing to Woo Chaewoon, who stood silently in the background. “You may not see the threats, but I do. And I won’t wait until it’s too late.”

Haein exhaled sharply, glancing away. She hated this. Hated the feeling of being controlled. “This is unnecessary.”

Her grandfather shook his head. “No. It’s inevitable.” Then, after a pause, he softened. “Just let him do his job, Haein. That’s all I ask.”

Haein realized there was no way to argue her way out of this. Her grandfather was unwavering, his usual air of patience replaced by something far more resolute. She knew that look—it meant the decision was final. She exhaled sharply, forcing herself to remain composed. “Fine then,” she said, her voice laced with quiet defiance. “Let’s see how long he lasts.”

With one last glance at Chaewoon—sharp, assessing, unimpressed—she turned on her heel and strode out of the room.

Chaewoon inclined his head in a respectful bow to Chairman Hong before following after her. The moment he stepped outside, he was met with Haein’s cold, piercing stare. She had stopped just a few steps ahead, arms crossed, waiting for him.

“Report to my grandfather if you want,” she said, voice cool and clipped. “But don’t expect me to make your job easy.”

Chaewoon remained unshaken. “I will be just right behind you, Miss Haein.”

Her jaw tightened at his unwavering response. Her eyes narrowed, irritation flickering beneath the surface. “Fine. If you insist on following me around, at least make yourself invisible.”

Chaewoon met her gaze, calm and detached. “Noted.”

She turned away, unwilling to waste another breath on him. But as he fell into step behind her, silent and unyielding, a thought crossed her mind—he was different. And that, somehow, made him even more infuriating.

She hated him already. Not because he was assigned to watch over her, but because he was unreadable, unfazed. Most men either cowered under her glare or tried too hard to impress her. Woo Chaewoon did neither.

And that annoyed her.

Chaewoon, on the other hand, was already analyzing her—the sharpness in her movements, the subtle tension in her shoulders, the careful way she controlled every aspect of her presence. She was difficult, yes, but not unpredictable. She was used to command, used to distance, used to ensuring no one got too close.

He wasn’t here to befriend her. He wasn’t here to earn her approval. He wasn’t here to be liked. And that made his job easier.

But as she turned on her heel and walked off without another glance, he had a sinking feeling—Hong Haein would be more than just a job. She was going to be a problem.

A beautiful, dangerous problem. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I know I said I'll upload on Monday and now it's Tuesday night I'm so sorry adfaghjfdsg I already had 4 chapters written but I had a hard time trying to refine the first chapter before I upload it. And also life has been trying to kill me lately so expect some inconsistent uploads :') This first chapter is also kinda boring Im so sorry for that but I promise the next chapters will be better (I hope) aaaaghjdffn Also! I tried my best to provide more background info because I'm setting it up in QOT's world, and I was rewatching it recently to see if I can use any scenes or characters for this story. For Chaewoon's character, I'm keeping it the same as from the show, a former soldier who became an undercover spy bodyguard BUT!! I'm trying to write more about his motive for accepting this mission, and also the "villains" in this story.

But then again, for some reason, I just want to scratch the "lore" and just focus on chaewoon and haein lmaooaghjf I'm so lazy for world and plot building As you can see from this "author's note" alone my mind is a mess please pray I'm able to finish this story in peace. Thank you so much for waiting🥹 Please let me know your thoughts!

💧

d r o p

UNSPOKEN: Special Chapter 1

genre: romance, slow-burn, sexual tension, mutual pining

Special Chapter: Her Dress & His Necktie

As Chaewoon helps Haein button up her dress and Haein returns the favor by tying his necktie, what starts as a simple moment of assistance quickly turns into something a little intimate.

Quick Author's note:

Unspoken will be taking a little break for the time being. I wanted to upload a special chapter, this scene will be included in one of Unspoken’s future chapters. So, I hope no one is confused and thinks there was a time jump or anything haha as you read this chapter, you will see Eunsung’s name. And yes, I will also include his character in this story as one of the main antagonists (and for jealousy arch of course!)

Well, I hope you guys enjoy it! My hands are honestly itching to upload the rest of the chapters I have in store ;-:

taglist: @lvnat1c @strangerinthesecretforest <3

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Inside her room, Haein had been struggling to button her dress for the past ten minutes.

“Come on,” she grunted, arms twisting awkwardly as she tried to reach the buttons running down her back.

Out of all the dresses in my closet… she thought with a sigh of frustration.

She hadn’t given it much thought when she picked it out. It was just another evening party, and her walk-in closet was practically overflowing with gowns. She had glanced at the elegant, navy-blue dress hanging near the door and decided, That one. Simple choice.

What she didn’t account for was the string of tiny pearl buttons that ran from the waist all the way up to the nape of her neck. It was the kind of dress that required help to wear—something Haein rarely asked for. She had staff, sure, but she was used to doing things on her own.

Still, there was someone outside who could help her.

Haein paused, cheeks warming at the thought.

There’s no way, she told herself.

But the clock was ticking, and no amount of twisting, turning, or silent pleading was going to get those buttons fastened.

With a resigned huff, she cracked open the door.

Standing in the hallway, ever composed and patiently waiting, was Chaewoon.

“…Mr. Woo?” she said, her voice quieter than usual. “I need to ask you a favor.”

“Yes?” His voice was gentle as he stepped toward her, brows lifting slightly in curiosity. When she didn’t continue, he tilted his head. “What can I help you with?”

Still standing half-hidden behind the door, Haein let out a small sigh, then slowly turned around—revealing the unfastened buttons trailing down her back.

Chaewoon blinked.

Haein looked beautiful as always. The deep navy dress hugged her figure with effortless grace, it’s color mirroring the evening sky. Soft curls framed her shoulders, and then— her bare back.

He wasn’t someone who gets easily flustered, but for a split second, something in his brain short-circuited.

Haein laughed awkwardly. “Looks like I picked the wrong dress. I didn’t realize I’d need a second pair of hands… If you could—um…”

Her words trailed off, her embarrassment palpable. Chaewoon stepped forward carefully, his fingers brushing the first button.

I’m her bodyguard. A professional, he reminded himself silently. But with each button he fastened, his composure slipped just a little more. Her skin was warm beneath his fingertips. The silence between them was thick, but not uncomfortable—just… charged.

He noticed the subtle way her shoulders rose and fell with each breath, the soft scent of her perfume lingering in the air. His fingers grazed her skin again, unintentionally, and he nearly forgot to breathe.

Across from him, Haein stood still, trying her best to appear composed. But she could feel everything—his touch, his breath near her neck, the closeness, the strange intimacy of it all. And what surprised her most was… she didn’t mind it.

Finally, with the last pearl button in place, Chaewoon let out a breath he did not realize he was holding.

“All done,” he said, his voice slightly lower than usual.

Haein turned to face him. “Thank you,” she said, a little too fast. “I’ll… make sure to return the favor.”

“There’s no need,” Chaewoon replied smoothly. “It was my pleasure to help.”

He was just about to step away when Haein reached into her room. “Oh, Mr. Woo—wait.”

She returned holding a small box. Opening it, she pulled out a necktie with a color that matches her dress.

“I thought… since you’ll be accompanying me tonight, we could…”

She didn’t finish the sentence, because Chaewoon was already smiling.

“If you still want to return the favor,” he said, his tone teasing now, “why don’t you tie it for me?”

Haein blinked, unsure whether to be relieved by his relaxed tone—or more nervous because of what he’d just asked.

Chaewoon on the other hand, had no idea why he suddenly blurted that out. For a moment, he wanted to slap himself, he expected her to scoff at him, maybe throw the necktie to him and say, “Tie it yourself.” He almost froze when Haein stepped closer.

She approached him slowly, tiptoeing as she looped the tie around his collar. “You’re annoyingly tall,” she muttered.

Chaewoon chuckled, he then adjusted his level, lowering his head a little. “Better?”

Haein blinked, her lips pursed. “I hope that’s not your way of teasing me for being short.” she said with a small glare, which he only responded to with another soft laugh. “I would never.”

As she focused on the tie, Haein found herself fumbling a little—his face was too close. Too steady.

His eyes flicked from her hands to her lips to her eyes again. And when she finally pulled the knot tight, their gazes locked.

“…Did I do it right?” she asked quietly.

For a moment, neither of them moved.

Her hands were still lightly resting against his chest, his tie gripped loosely between her fingers. He was close. Too close. And neither of them seemed eager to step back.

Chaewoon’s thoughts were a blur. He was a highly trained soldier and spy. Self-control was easy for him. And yet in this moment, he felt his self-control slowly slipping away. He had been trained to remain calm in the tensest of situations. But this—this felt more dangerous than anything he’d faced before.

His mind was telling him to snap out of it, but he felt his own body betraying him, as he slowly moved closer, and closer to her.

His gaze fell to her lips.

And hers to his.

Their noses were nearly touching. A breath away.

And then—

Knock.

The sound at the door shattered the moment.

Chaewoon cleared his throat and straightened. Haein took a step back, smoothing down the front of her dress.

Just like that, the tension dissolved—almost.

But not forgotten.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

When Haein stepped into the living room, she found Eunsung already waiting, dressed sharply and oozing confidence.

“Good evening, Haein. Ready to go?” he said, extending his arm with a charming smile.

She raised an eyebrow, one hand on her hip.

Eunsung chuckled, taking her expression as a question. “Didn’t your parents tell you? I’ll be your date for tonight’s party.”

Haein smirked. “Oh? Then I suppose they forgot to tell you something too—I already have a date.”

As if on cue, Chaewoon appeared behind her.

He looked nothing like the bodyguard everyone knew. Gone were his crisp white shirt and standard black coat. Tonight, he wore a tailored tuxedo and a sleek long coat, his navy-blue tie matching perfectly with Haein’s gown. His hair, usually neat and professional, was now styled just enough to give him that effortless bachelor charm.

Woo Chaewoon was always handsome—but tonight, he looked devastatingly dashing.

Haein’s smile widened, proud of the man beside her. She had styled him herself, and she made sure he would turn heads the moment they stepped into the venue.

She turned back to Eunsung, voice polite but edged with satisfaction. “We’ll be going now. See you at the party, Mr. Yoon.”

Without waiting for a reply, she slipped her arm through Chaewoon’s, pulling him along effortlessly. Completely unaware of the effect she had on him.

Chaewoon’s heartbeat quickened as she leaned slightly into him. Her perfume lingered between them. This was no ordinary assignment anymore.

He swallowed discreetly, as he lets himself be dragged away by Haein.

This was going to be a long night.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

----> Unspoken Chapter List

d a m n

Trauma Code: A Hero in Love

genre: workplace romance, comedy, mutual pinning, slow-burn, banter, suggestive

2.1 Diagnosis - Obvious

It was only her first day, yet Dr. Song Hyejoo was already making waves in the trauma department. She had settled into her role quickly, impressing the staff with her calm demeanor and expert decision-making. But for some reason, Dr. Baek Kanghyuk—who, normally, wouldn’t spare much attention to anyone new—found himself keeping an eye on her. Maybe it was the way she commanded the room, or maybe it was that smile of hers. He couldn’t decide.

For whatever reason, it felt like it had been ages since he’d worked alongside someone he hadn’t completely sized up within a day. But there was something about Hyejoo—something that kept him on edge. So, when the opportunity arose to give her a tour of the department, Kanghyuk took it, despite it being someone else’s job. He told himself it was simply to familiarize her with the layout and the team. But deep down, he knew it was more than that.

Jangmi, however, wasn’t buying it.

The moment Kanghyuk insisted on tagging along for the tour, her suspicion kicked in. He never did that. In fact, he usually avoided those kinds of things—said he was too busy, or that orientation was “someone else’s problem.” But that morning, when she mentioned giving the new trauma doctor a quick walkthrough of the facilities, he’d said, “I’ll come too,” in a tone too casual to be casual.

She remembered blinking at him in surprise. “You sure? You hate tours.”

He just grunted, “It’s fine,” and grabbed his tablet.

That was when it clicked. Jangmi had noticed something off the moment Dr. Song Hyejoo stepped into the department and locked eyes with Kanghyuk. There’d been a pause—brief, but telling. She also recalled how, later that day, Jaewon had asked Kanghyuk if he knew her, and Kanghyuk replied with a simple, “We’ve crossed paths before. Now get back to work.” before promptly shutting down the conversation.

Crossed paths. Yeah, right.

As they walked through the bustling trauma ward, Jangmi led the way, briefing Hyejoo on the various rooms, patient conditions, and the names of the doctors they’d be working with. Kanghyuk walked a few steps behind them, his gaze occasionally drifting to Hyejoo.

She was speaking with Jangmi, listening attentively, nodding in all the right places. But her posture, that confident way she moved, reminded him so much of their time in university. The way she’d always been so certain of herself. The way she’d argue with him over every little thing, convinced that her opinions were always better—and well, most of the time, they were.

He couldn’t help but stare. The memories flooded back like a tidal wave: late-night study sessions in the library, competitive glances across exam papers, bantering over dinner, her fiery passion to save lives, her constant push to be better, to prove herself.

He snapped back to the present when Hyejoo suddenly turned toward him with that signature smile—half teasing, half knowing.

“You know, you’re pretty famous for having a nasty temper,” she said, her voice light with amusement, clearly enjoying the rare chance to poke at him.

Kanghyuk blinked, his thoughts still lingering on the past. For a moment, his mind went blank, as if she had thrown him off guard, just like she always used to. He had his fair share of colorful reactions, but he didn’t expect her to bring it up so easily.

He quickly recovered, clearing his throat. “Looked me up already?” he asked, voice dry but with a subtle edge of humor.

Hyejoo raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at the corner of her lips. “Still full of yourself, I see.”

Kanghyuk flashed her a teasing smile. “Just admit that you’re curious about me.”

She shrugged casually. “As someone transferring to a new hospital, I just did my research.”

Then she leaned in slightly, eyes gleaming. “Why? Were you hoping I was curious about you?”

Kanghyuk scoffed, trying to mask the way he almost faltered. “Nonsense,” was all he could manage.

Hyejoo smiled in triumph. “Cat got your tongue?”

It was maddening, the way she could still get under his skin so effortlessly. Kanghyuk was suddenly reminded of those late nights in university—their back-and-forths across study tables, her relentless teasing, the way she never let him win an argument without a fight.

Back then, he could keep up. Back then, he always had a retort ready.

Now? Now she had the upper hand, and she clearly knew it.

“I can already tell you’re gonna be a pain in the neck,” he muttered, shaking his head.

Hyejoo smirked. “Try to watch your blood pressure then.”

Kanghyuk let out a short laugh, low and grudging. He turned his face away, but he couldn’t hide the smile tugging at the corner of his mouth.

From a few steps ahead, Jangmi pretended to be preoccupied with her tablet, but her eyes flicked back to them briefly—just in time to catch the moment.

Maybe he should be watching his heart pressure instead, she thought, fighting back a grin.

Jangmi slowed her pace, clearly eavesdropping. She narrowed her eyes, not at the words—but the tone.

Something was different.

Kanghyuk didn’t sound sharp. He wasn’t barking orders or offering curt replies like he usually did. No, his voice was softer—just a little—but enough for someone like Jangmi to notice.

There was a gentleness in the way he spoke to Hyejoo, like he was trying not to scare her off. Or maybe, like he didn’t want the conversation to end.

Her lips slowly curled into a mischievous grin.

“Oh, this is good,” she murmured under her breath. “Wait till I tell Jaewon and Gyeong-Won. They’re gonna lose it.”

And with that, she turned back down the hallway, already crafting the perfect group chat message in her head.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Trauma Code: A Hero in Love - Chapter List

UNSPOKEN (말하지 않은)

genre: romance, slow-burn, fluff, angst, sexual tension, mutual pining

Chapter 11: An Unwelcomed Familiar Face

Haein prepares to meet the Director of Hycerna but is caught off guard by the return of Yoon Eunsung—now a powerful figure with ties to the man she needs. Tensions rise as old wounds resurface, and Chaewoon’s quiet protectiveness deepens when he senses that Eunsung may be more dangerous than he appears.

It was finally the night of the 20th Investors Gala—the event where the Director of Hycerna would be attending. Haein was determined to speak with him about business, no matter what.

As she placed an earring on, her eyes lingered on her reflection in the mirror. That sinking feeling in her stomach refused to go away. A wave of dizziness passed over her, and she could feel cold sweat starting to form along her head.

And then a soft knock pulled her out of her thoughts.

“Miss Haein? Are you ready?” Chaewoon’s voice called gently from outside her door.

She turned toward the clock on the wall and froze. 8:32 pm…. Thirty minutes has passed already?

She could’ve sworn it had only been seconds since she began getting ready. The clock had read 8:00 when she picked up her earring. What had she even done in that time? Nothing came to mind—just a blur.

It was happening again, time slipping by so fast. As if her memory was skipping parts of her life. She sighed and grabbed her purse. She had no time to think about these things, she was about to be late at the Gala.

Grabbing her purse, she opened the door. Chaewoon was there, standing as always, his posture straight, eyes scanning her carefully. But she caught it—a flicker of concern in his gaze before he quickly masked it.

“Let’s go.” She said as she walked pass him.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

At the gala, the dazzling lights and hum of conversation did nothing to ease the pounding in her head. She ignored the ringing in her ears, pressing forward with practiced poise.

“Just stay beside me.” She murmured to Chaewoon who was just about to fade from the sidelines. Normally at events like this, especially one where Haein had to socialize and meet with different people, he doesn’t accompany her and follow her around like usual. He simply stays around the corners, watching her from afar, being alert incase she needed him. So when Haein asked him to stay beside her, Chaewoon did not question it. He knew, she needed him now more than ever.

“I’ll be right here,” he said reassuringly, and she gave him a small nod.

As they entered the grand ballroom, Haein felt her headache growing more when someone approached her.

“Well, look who finally showed up.” A woman with sleek short hair, crimson lips, and a dress that screamed for attention stepped into view. She was smiling—but it was not at all friendly, Chaewoon could tell, and he became more alert.

“Good evening, Han Jiwoo,” Haein replied, not bothering with a smile.

“It’s been a while since I’ve seen you at one of these. First time getting invited again?”

“I always get invited, I just hate attending.” Haein replied as she crossed her arms, Chaewoon could already feel the impatience in her voice.

“Oh? And who’s this?” Han Jiwoo’s voice cut through the chatter, eyes landing on Chaewoon, who stood just a step behind Haein. “Oh my, did you finally get yourself a boyfriend?” she gasped dramatically, swirling the wine in her glass.

“Well, I must say, Haein, you’ve got good taste.” Her gaze swept over him slowly. “So what’s your name? You look a bit familiar. Which family did you come from?” She continued.

Haein’s composure was momentarily thrown off at the word boyfriend. But she brushed it off and scoffed, already irritated. “Can you stop bothering us Han Jiwoo, you’re clearly already drunk and the event only just started. Stop embarrassing yourself.” She said as she moved away Jiwoo’s hand when she was about to approach him.

“Oh so you’re still single then Haein? You really should start seeing someone. How old are you anyway?” Jiwoo said, clearly testing Haein’s patience. “Look at me, I’m happily married for years now to one of the most successful businessmen in the country that my parents had arranged for me. I’m living such a good life. I don’t even have to work myself like a dog. But look at yourself, still a slave to your family who doesn’t even appreciate you.” Jiwoo added sweetly, the fake concern laced with venom.

Chaewoon could feel himself also getting impatient. All he wanted to do now was take Haein away from this woman as soon as possible.

Just as he was about to step forward and gesture to Haein for them to walk away, Jiwoo had more to say.

“You know,” she said with a smug tilt of her head, “you should’ve never broken up with Yoon Eunsung.”

The name hit like a slap. Haein visibly annoyed. “Why would you bring him up?” she said sharply. Chaewoon caught the shift in her tone. He watched her carefully.

Jiwoo smiled, savoring the reaction. “You don’t know anything do you? He’s Mr. Hermann’s right-hand man. He’s the key to reaching Mr. Hermann.”

“What?”

“Hey, he became really successful. He’s not the same guy from university. He’s in charge of managing Sheikh’s finances now.” Jiwoo added, gesturing subtly to their right. Haein followed her gaze. Across the room, a sharply dressed man stood among foreign delegates, laughing with practiced ease. Her eyes narrowed, her body going still and Chaewoon noticed how she shifted uncomfortably.

Never should’ve broken up? Did she have a relationship with him in the past? Chaewoon wondered. He glanced at the way Haein’s face hardened, as she let out a sigh. Whatever happened between them—it didn’t end well.

Chaewoon’s jaw ticked. He didn’t like the way Jiwoo was needling her.

And more than that, he didn’t like the way Haein looked like she’d rather be anywhere else than here the moment her eyes landed on him.

Yoon Eunsung’s gaze swept across the crowd—until it landed on Haein. Without hesitation, he began walking towards her.

Haein tensed the moment she saw him. She didn’t flinch or look startled, but there was a flicker of annoyance in her eyes, like someone bracing for a conversation they never wanted to have.

Chaewoon instinctively stepped closer, his presence solid at her side—a quiet but firm show of support.

“It’s been a while,” Eunsung said, flashing her a knowing smile.

Haein’s expression smoothed over in an instant, shifting into the polished, diplomatic smile she wore in business meetings. “You should’ve let me know if you were back in Korea.” She replied casually.

Eunsung tilted his head slightly, then said, “Don’t you remember the last thing you said to me? To not contact you.” 

Chaewoon’s eyes flicked toward Haein, his brows lifting ever so slightly.

Her smile wavered—just a little—before she let out a quiet scoff. “You’re right. I told you not to reach out to me ever again, because you kept crossing the line.”

That landed heavier than anything else.

Chaewoon’s jaw tightened. His gaze sharpened as he looked at Eunsung now, no longer neutral, no longer curious—just guarded. Protective.

“Right, but now, it seems that you have something to say.” Eunsung said with a smug smile. Woo Chaewoon was not a violent man, but for some reason, he felt a strong urge to wipe that smirk off his face right now with his fist.

Haein dropped the pleasantries. “I’m sure you’ve already figured it out, so I’ll get to the point. You’re close with Mr. Hermann, and I want Hercyna in our mall. Will you help me or not?”

Eunsung chuckled, leaning back. “Still the same cold-hearted Hong Haein. You’ve always been like this—keeping people around only when they’re useful. Tossing them aside when they’re not.”

Haein scoffed. “If you’re not interested, spare me the lecture. I have other ways.”

Eunsung smiled, “But I do want to help you. And I also want to apologize for my behaviour the last time we saw each other. It’s been years and I’m a different man now. I hope you can give me a chance.” He said as he offered his hand to her.

Haein eyed it with suspicion before meeting his gaze. “Let’s be clear. You’re right—I use people. Right now, you’re just a means to secure a deal with Mr. Hermann. So I hope you don’t expect anything more from me.” Haein said coldly. Not batting an eye.

Eunsung smiled, “Of course, I know that. And I don’t mind. Use me however you want.” He then stepped closer to Haein, to which she instinctively stepped back, prompting Chaewoon to swiftly move in front of her. 

Chaewoon towered over Yoon Eunsung, his stance firm and protective, eyes locked with unwavering intensity. He stood like a shield, a silent wall between Haein and whatever threat Eunsung posed.

“And who are you exactly?” Eunsung asked, his lips curved in a polite smile, but the irritation in his voice was unmistakable. “You have a bodyguard now?”

“He’s my most trusted aide,” Haein replied coolly, arms crossing over her chest. “So you better respect him.” Her tone was sharp, final—like a blade sheathed in ice.

Chaewoon blinked, caught off guard. Most trusted aide—he hadn’t expected that. The words hit him in a place he didn’t realize was vulnerable. A flicker of warmth fluttered in his chest, but it was quickly replaced by a pang of guilt. She trusted him—deeply, clearly—and yet, he was hiding the truth from her. He wasn’t just her bodyguard. He was a spy sent to monitor her family.

Eunsung’s smile faltered ever so slightly, his eyes narrowing. He hadn’t pegged Hong Haein as the type to keep anyone that close. Cold, calculated, unreachable—that was the Haein he knew. So who was this man standing so protectively in front of her?

“I see,” Eunsung said, extending a hand. “Yoon Eunsung. I’ve known Haein since we were kids. Nice to meet you… Mr.?”

Chaewoon met his eyes briefly before taking the hand. His grip was firm but short. “Woo Chaewoon.” A beat passed. Then Eunsung tilted his head. “So… are you going to step aside, or?”

Chaewoon did not budge, instead, he looked behind him and waited for Haein.

When Haein gave him a subtle nod, only then did Chaewoon step back, wordless and composed. But the tension in the air crackled—thick, heavy, unspoken.

Eunsung’s jaw clenched as he walked past, eyes still on Chaewoon.

He had questions. And he was going to find the answers. Sooner or later.

“I can set up a meeting with Mr. Hermann as soon as possible, Haein,” Eunsung offered. “I can even help make the deal happen.”

“For what reason exactly are you going this far to help me? I only intended to ask if you could introduce me to Mr. Hermann, I can handle the rest myself.” Haein replied.

Eunsung gave a faint, almost wistful smile. “Call it… old times’ sake? Maybe you hated me back then—maybe you still do. But I never did. I’ve always been here, Haein. Ready to help, nothing in return. I mean that.”

He extended his hand again, open and steady. After a beat, Haein took it, her grip firm. “Good to know.

Behind her, Chaewoon said nothing—but his gaze stayed locked on Eunsung. Calculating. Cold.

Because in that moment, he knew: this man wasn’t just from Haein’s past. He could be someone harmful. Someone dangerous. And he will make sure no harm will come in Haein’s way.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The night stretched on, and the event slowly unfolded.

After a while, Eunsung took Haein to go and meet Mr. Hermann. Chaewoon was asked to stay behind—Mr. Hermann preferred privacy when discussing business, especially around unfamiliar faces.

Chaewoon understood, of course. But that didn’t mean he was comfortable leaving Haein alone with Yoon Eunsung.

Before she followed, Haein turned to him and gently held onto his arm. “Don’t worry,” she said softly, a teasing glint in her eyes. “I’ll be back shortly. So stay put—because I’ll be looking for you the moment I’m done.” Haein said, almost jokingly, as if to ease Chaewoon, because like him, she can also somehow read him now. And she was aware that he did not like the idea of leaving her side tonight.

“Mr. Woo?” she called out, noticing his silence.

Chaewoon sighed and then reached out, placing a steady hand on her shoulder. He slowly leaned down, close to her ear—close enough for her breath to hitch in surprise.

Then, quietly, without anyone noticing, she felt him slip something into her right hand—the one still holding his arm. She looked down and unfolded her fingers. A small object rested in her palm. A button.

“If anything happens, just call me.” Chaewoon whispered in her ear. “Press the button if you need me, I will come inside immediately.” His voice was low, quiet—yet it sent a shiver down her spine. Her fingers tightened around the object as she lifted her head.

Chaewoon then met her gaze, “Alright?”

Haein nodded slowly, a quiet promise in her eyes.

And then, without another word, she turned and walked away with Eunsung. But even as the distance between them grew, she could still feel the weight of Chaewoon’s hand on her shoulder—and the quiet vow that came with it.

When Haein was no longer in his line of sight, Chaewoon felt restless. Uneasy. Something about that Yoon Eunsung guy didn’t sit right with him.

He couldn’t shake it—the instinct that told him he wouldn’t like what he might uncover.

Based on Haein’s reaction earlier, Eunsung was clearly someone who didn’t respect boundaries. Chaewoon had seen it in her eyes: the way she tensed when Eunsung got too close, how her smile faltered. She was uncomfortable, and yet the man kept inching closer, like he either didn’t notice—or didn’t care.

Chaewoon’s jaw clenched.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

It’s almost an hour now. 45 minutes, he noted. And still no sign of Hong Haein. His concern deepened, the silence pressing against his chest.

He finally sent a message: How are you?

A reply came moments later: It’s almost over.

Only four words, but enough to let him breathe again—just a little.

“Woo Chaewoon?” A familiar voice then called out from behind. Chaewoon turned, and he immediately recognized the man.

“Mr. Jo Hangyu,” he greeted politely with a respectful bow. “It’s been a long time. How have you been?”

“You rascal, who are you calling so formally like that? You used to call me Uncle just a few years ago,” the old man said with a hearty chuckle, giving Chaewoon a friendly pat on the back. “You’ve grown into a fine young man. I still remember you running around the yard while your parents chased after you.”

Chaewoon smiled warmly at the memory. “Time flies, doesn’t it?”

Hangyu tilted his head. “What brings you here? You’re not usually the type to show up at events like this.”

“I’m just accompanying someone,” Chaewoon replied, his tone easy. “It’s work-related.”

“Ah, right. I heard you left the military. Haven’t heard from you since. What have you been up to? And who are you accompanying, huh? A girlfriend, maybe?” Hangyu teased, nudging his arm.

Chaewoon chuckled, but before he could answer, Hangyu added, “And how’s your mother doing?”

The question made Chaewoon pause. His voice softened. “She’s recovering well, Uncle. Would you like to see her again sometime?”

“Of course. Just let me know when. I’d be happy to visit.”

“I’ll let her know. She’d like that,” Chaewoon said with a small, grateful nod.

Hangyu studied him for a moment, a nostalgic look settling in his eyes. “You really do look like your old man. I’m sure he would’ve been proud of the man you’ve become.”

Chaewoon offered a faint smile. “And I’m sure I’d still be getting a good scolding from him now and then.”

They both laughed softly.

“Well,” Hangyu said, patting his shoulder, “it’s good to see you again, kid. Don’t be a stranger. You know you’re like a son to me. If you ever need anything—advice, help, or just a drinking buddy—you know where to find me. I may be getting old, but I have high alcohol tolerance.”

Chaewoon grinned. “And I will make sure to be the judge of that, Uncle.”

When Hangyu finally left, Chaewoon felt a tap on his shoulder.

He turned to see Hong Haein standing there, eyes wide and expectant. Her cheeks were flushed, her eyes rimmed with exhaustion—and was that a pout on her lips?

“Hey Mr. Woo, where have you been?” She said, a bit slower than how she normally talks. “I immediately looked for you as soon as I got out of there. But you were nowhere to be found. I told you to stay put didn’t I?” To anyone else, she might’ve seemed perfectly fine. But Chaewoon knew better. The way she swayed slightly on her feet, the warmth rising from her face, the unusually soft lilt in her voice—

Wait. Is she drunk?

But before he could ask, Haein stepped forward and stumbled, and he caught her just in time—hands gripping her shoulders to steady her.

“Take me home,” she mumbled, leaning into him. “I’m sick of everyone here.”

Then, quieter: “Take me with you.”

Chaewoon froze for a moment, the weight of her words settling somewhere deeper than he expected.

And as she rested her head against his chest, Chaewoon realized—this wasn’t something he could just walk away from anymore.

< Chapter 10 Chapter 11 >

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

taglist: @lvnat1c @strangerinthesecretforest <3

Oh my godddddddd Ju Jihoon. Imagine existing with a face like that. Yes even his little eye, it is so charming, fuck me uppppppppppp