Ju Ji Hoon - Blog Posts

Binged this recently, because, Ju Ji Hoon.

These two though, Jaewon is completely smitten with Kang Hyuk 😂👀 it was always going to be Trauma surgery from that first knife pull. Kang Hyuk had him at Hello

I'm going to make sure you regret choosing trauma surgery. 🚑 THE TRAUMA CODE: HEROES ON CALL (2025)

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.

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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.

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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.

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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 >

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taglist: @lvnat1c @strangerinthesecretforest <3

UNSPOKEN (말하지 않은)

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

Chapter 10: A Worry He Couldn’t Name

As Haein pushes through her busy days quiet symptoms begin to surface—headaches, dizziness, and fatigue she brushes off. But Chaewoon notices it all, his silent concern growing. But as the days pass, it becomes harder for either of them to pretend nothing’s wrong.

Haein leaned back in her chair, brows furrowed, as she stared at Chaewoon through the glass walls of her office. She had been noticing it lately—how he was being extra attentive toward her.

Chaewoon had always been different from other bodyguards. He wasn’t just the silent, stoic type standing at a distance. He went above and beyond, a quiet presence who handled everything before she even thought to ask.

And she didn’t mind it.

In fact, she had gotten used to it—the way he was always there, the silent acts of service, the gentleness laced into his actions and words. She had grown so accustomed to him that sometimes, she forgot to notice how much she relied on his presence.

But lately… something was different.

It started one afternoon.

She had been getting headaches for days—nothing serious, she thought. Just the usual stress. She would pop a pill, drink some water, and move on with her day.

But Chaewoon had begun hovering more than necessary.

When her throat went dry during a meeting and she coughed lightly, he was at her side almost instantly, a glass of water in hand.

“Are you alright? Should I call someone to check on you?” he whispered, concern etched into his face. Haein waved him off. “…My throat was just dry. Calm down.”

Another time, during rounds at Queen’s Department Store, she misstepped slightly on the escalator. Chaewoon immediately caught her arm, steadying her before she could fall.

“The whole point of an escalator is so you don’t have to walk,” he muttered with a tsk, examining her feet briefly. “Everyone walks on escalators,” Haein scoffed.

“But you’re wearing high heels,” he said, exasperated. “Please be more careful.”

She rolled her eyes. “You’re getting annoying, you know that?”

And just yesterday, as she sat reviewing documents, her fingers absentmindedly pressing against her forehead, she hadn’t even noticed him approach until he was standing beside her table—with food in hand.

“You haven’t eaten yet,” he said matter-of-factly. “I’m not hungry,” she replied without looking up.

“Your head’s going to hurt again if you keep starving yourself,” he said softly, lowering the paper she was reading and placing the neatly packed food in front of her. “Please eat.”

But, there was a reason why Chaewoon had been acting this way lately.

Chaewoon had always been observant. He was quick to notice the smallest changes—the slight shifts in a person’s behavior, the quiet signals that something was wrong. And he didn’t fail to notice the changes happening to Hong Haein.

It started one afternoon.

Chaewoon stood just right outside the door, his eyes scanning the quiet office as Haein worked, her sharp focus on the documents before her. But as he watched her, a subtle unease began to creep into him. The usual quick movements of her hands were slower now. The focus in her eyes, once unshakeable, had become distant at times.

She reached for a pen to sign a document, but it slipped from her fingers, landing on the floor with a soft clatter. Haein frowned, blinking as if trying to shake off a sudden dizziness.

“Miss Haein?” Chaewoon’s voice was soft but laced with concern. She looked up, her expression briefly vacant before it cleared.

“I’m fine,” she muttered, her tone clipped as usual, but there was a hint of something off in the way she said it. A sharpness that had once been there now seemed worn, frayed around the edges.

Chaewoon stood, walking over to her desk. “You’re not fine.” He picked up the pen she’d dropped and handed it to her, his fingers brushing against hers for a brief moment. Haein didn’t seem to notice, her hand shaky as she grasped the pen.

“It’s just the headaches.” She replied, he wasn’t sure if she was trying to convince him, or herself.

But it wasn’t just this one moment.

Chaewoon had seen it before—the slight hesitation in her steps, the way her confident stride would falter for half a second, as if her body momentarily forgot how to move. At first, he brushed it off, thinking she was merely lost in thought. But it kept happening. Again and again.

And so, he couldn’t help it—he found himself watching her more closely, worrying about her with every step she took.

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One night, as Chaewoon escorted her back to the mansion, he noticed it again. Her hand, clutching her bag, trembled ever so slightly. Her steps were slower than usual, and her forehead had been pressed lightly all day, as if she were trying to soothe a growing ache.

Without a word, Chaewoon swiftly took the bag from her hands and gently placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, grounding her.

“Are you alright?” His voice was laced with quiet concern.

Haein sighed, “Can you stop doing that?”

Chaewoon blinked in surprise. “Doing what?”

“Being dramatic,” she muttered, though there was no real anger in her tone, just a tired edge to it.

“I’m really fine, Mr. Woo. I’ve just been tired lately. You can stop worrying now.” She snatched the bag from him and walked off without looking back.

“I understand,” Chaewoon said softly, though the words didn’t quite settle in her chest.

When Haein reached her room, she immediately regretted her harsh response. She hadn’t meant to push him away like that, but she hated feeling vulnerable in front of him.

She sank down on the edge of her bed, her head heavy with more than just fatigue.

If she was honest with herself, something didn’t feel right. Her headaches had become constant, her memory slipping more often than not, and sometimes, her vision blurred as if she were seeing through a fog.

It only added to her growing frustration, and she didn’t want to take it out on Chaewoon—especially when she knew he was just trying to help. But the truth was, his concern was starting to wear on her.

Why is he so concerned anyway? What am I to him?

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It was a busy morning for Hong Haein. News had arrived that the Director of Hycerna would be visiting Korea and attending the 20th Investors Gala the following week. Haein had long been working to secure a deal to bring Hycerna to Queen’s Department Store—and she wasn’t about to let this opportunity slip through her fingers.

Determined, she spent the morning clearing her schedule and strategizing how best to convince Mr. Hermann to sign with Queen’s.

Meanwhile, Chaewoon stood outside her closet room, mildly concerned as he listened to the thuds of shoes and the rustling of clothes being thrown onto the floor.

A moment later, Haein emerged from the chaos, two dresses held up on hangers.

“Choose. Both are limited edition from Hycerna. Which one will make a better impression?” she asked, slightly breathless.

“You’re asking for my opinion?” Chaewoon blinked.

“I’m in a dilemma, obviously. I need a second opinion,” she said, thrusting the dresses forward.

Chaewoon narrowed his eyes. To him, the two dresses looked almost identical—but he wisely kept that thought to himself, he knew Haein would glare at him if he said that.

“I think both dresses would look beautiful on you,” he said, making Haein blink in surprise.

“But,” he continued thoughtfully, “if you want to make a strong first impression as a serious businesswoman, I’d go with the one on the left. The one on the right feels more like you’re hosting a party.”

Haein stared at him, momentarily caught off guard. She hadn’t expected him to actually take the question seriously, much less give such a thoughtful answer.

And to her own surprise, she found herself appreciating it.

“Thanks. Are you usually this good with women’s clothes?” Haein asked, disappearing into the closet with the dress in hand.

Chaewoon chuckled, leaning back against the doorframe. “Let’s just say having an older sister gave me plenty of training. You wouldn’t believe how many outfit decisions I had to make for her growing up.” He smiled at the memory of him when he was young, held hostage by his older sister as she shoved different clothes in front him.

Haein smiled at the thought, sliding into the dress. “Sounds like you two are close.”

“Yeah, we are,” he said, a fond look passing over his face. “Our parents were always working, so she basically played the role of a second mom. She nagged the hell out of me, we bickered constantly—but she always had my back. I’ll always be grateful for her.”

Inside the closet, Haein paused, touched by how warmly he spoke about his sister. “Where is she now? Does she live overseas?” She asked, recalling the picture she saw on his account before. It looked like it was taken at another country.

Chaewoon nodded. “Yeah. They moved Germany for her daughter’s medical treatment.”

Chaewoon’s voice softened slightly, the usual playfulness giving way to something quieter. “My niece was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune condition. Treatment options here were limited, but there’s a specialist in Berlin. They’ve been there for almost two years now.”

Haein, still behind the door, stilled at the weight of his words. “That must’ve been hard… for all of you.”

“It was,” he admitted. “But they’re doing okay now. My niece is responding well to the treatment. She’s a tough little kid.”

There was a small pause, only the sound of fabric shifting as Haein adjusted the dress. Then, her voice came, gentler than before. “You really care about your family.”

Chaewoon huffed a short laugh. “Of course. I owe a lot to them.” Then, trying to lighten the mood, he added, “Though I’m still salty about being her fashion guinea pig for all those years.”

The door creaked slightly as Haein peeked out, one hand gripping the frame. “Well, all that trauma paid off. This dress fits perfectly.”

When Haein finally stepped out of her closet, Chaewoon looked up—and froze for just a moment.

Haein stood there, the soft lighting catching the subtle shimmer of the fabric. The color complimented her skin tone, the cut elegant but simple. She looked both graceful and strong.

“Well?” she asked, casually adjusting the cuffs of her sleeves. “How do I look?”

Chaewoon stood there, his eyes glued to her. “You… look nice.”

Haein raised an eyebrow. “That all you got, Mr. Former Fashion Consultant?”

Chaewoon stepped forward without a word and smoothed the cuffs for her, his touch careful.

“You look beautiful, Miss Haein,” he said softly.

She stilled.

He had said that word before—beautiful. A compliment she’d heard countless times, from countless people. It never meant much. But somehow, when he said it, it landed differently. Quiet. Sincere. Almost reverent.

She cleared her throat, composing herself. “I always do.”

Chaewoon smiled faintly, as if he’d been waiting for that exact answer. He let her go, but not without one last glance.

Haein turned toward the full-length mirror in her room, adjusting the hem of her blouse. But just as she took a step, her vision blurred, and her legs wavered slightly beneath her.

Chaewoon instinctively moved forward, his hand twitching at his side, ready to steady her. But he stopped himself—just in time. He remembered her words from the other day, Can you stop doing that? Being dramatic.

So, he stayed rooted where he was, jaw tightening, his eyes following her every movement. He didn’t want to upset her again. Didn’t want to make her feel like she was being treated like glass.

But to him, it wasn’t a small thing. Not anymore. Not when it had been happening more often lately—those brief moments when she’d falter, sway, or lose her breath just a beat too long.

Haein caught it—the way his body had tensed the moment she stumbled, the way his concern almost leapt forward again. He didn’t say anything. But he didn’t have to. She could feel it.

She didn’t actually mind Chaewoon’s quiet protectiveness. In truth, it warmed her more than she ever admitted. But today, she didn’t want to be the cause of that look on his face again. The one that hovered between worry and restraint.

Maybe it was pride. Maybe it was fear. Or maybe it was something softer, harder to name.

Because the truth was, she liked the way he made her feel—safe, seen. Around him, she could let her guard down. She could look tired, be tired, and not feel ashamed. He never asked her to be anything more than herself.

But the more time they spent together, the more she felt it—that ache in her chest every time she caught him quietly watching her like she might disappear.

And that…

That was the part that scared her.

< Chapter 9 Chapter 11 >

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taglist: @lvnat1c @strangerinthesecretforest <3

UNSPOKEN (말하지 않은)

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

Chapter 9: Almost on the Line

A line was almost crossed, feelings starting to grow, but both Haein and Chaewoon choose to stay on their own sides, avoiding the tension that’s quietly building between them.

They stayed like that for a moment—neither of them moving, neither of them speaking. The only sound between them was the soft rhythm of the rain tapping against the windows, steady and unrelenting, like the silence that wrapped around them.

Chaewoon’s gaze was soft, gentle—just like it always was when it came to Haein. But tonight, there was something different in his eyes. Something unspoken. Something heavier. And she felt it too—the shift in the air, the quiet catch in his breath, the way his eyes lingered like he was searching for something… something he wasn’t sure he had the right to want.

Then his gaze dropped—to her lips.

Haein’s heart fluttered in response, unsteady and sudden. Her breath hitched, caught in her throat, and when his eyes flicked back up to meet hers, the moment stretched impossibly thin—on the edge of something neither of them dared to name.

And then—

RING.

The sudden sound of a phone call cut through the quiet like a splash of cold water. Haein startled, fumbling for her phone, yanking it free and accidentally dislodging her headset in the process.

“I—I need to take this call,” she stammered, avoiding his eyes. “You can take the rest of the day off. Goodbye.”

Before he could say anything, she was already halfway to her room, pressing the still-ringing phone to her ear, her footsteps quick and uneven.

Chaewoon sat there still in the moment, his mind still wandering on what had almost happened. One minute, he was waking up to find her beside him—closer than they’d ever been—and the next, she was running off like the walls had suddenly caved in.

His eyes dropped to his lap. Her headset.

It must’ve slipped when she grabbed her phone. He picked it up slowly, fingers curling around the tangled cord.

With a quiet sigh, he leaned back against the couch and ran a hand across his forehead.

“That was close,” he murmured to himself.

Too close.

The way he’d looked at her lips. The way he’d almost leaned in. It wasn’t just a moment— it was a line he'd never crossed, until now.

He knew he was losing his grip. And he didn’t know how much longer he could keep pretending.

Pretending that he didn’t want more. Pretending that the feelings blooming quietly inside him weren’t real. Pretending that looking at her didn’t already feel like falling.

And it was dangerous. Too dangerous.

Because the moment he let himself feel this way—let himself want more—he knew it could only end badly.

He kept reminding himself: he was betraying her even now. He was someone she should never trust.

And if the moment comes when Haein finds out the truth—that he was a spy planted inside her family—he didn’t know if she would ever be able to look at him the same way again.

And that thought terrified him more than anything else.

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

Haein closed the door behind her and leaned against it, eyes shut, chest rising and falling as if she’d just run a marathon. The rain outside hadn’t let up—it kept drumming softly against the windows like a heartbeat she couldn’t ignore.

She finally opened her eyes and let out a shaky breath, walking over to her desk. The phone call had ended quickly—nothing urgent, just her secretary checking in. But it might as well have been fate yanking her away from a moment she wasn’t ready for.

She sank into her chair, elbows resting on the table, fingers threading through her hair. Her mind was still in the living room—with him. With Chaewoon.

The way he looked at her. The warmth in his eyes. The stillness in the space between them.

And the way his gaze dropped—just for a second—to her lips.

Her heart thundered at the memory, that tiny, unspoken flicker that almost turned into something more. She’d seen it. Felt it.

And she’d run.

Haein let out a soft, humorless laugh and tilted her head back against the chair.

“Idiot,” she whispered—to herself, to him, to the whole moment.

Why did he look at me that way? Was he about to lean in? Was he about to….

She halted her thoughts. It was starting to scare her. She was scared how easily she got lost in the moment. She was scared at how she wanted it. How easy it was to lean in. How natural it was starting to feel to be near him.

Her eyes drifted to the empty pouch sitting on her desk. It was where she kept her headset. The one Chaewoon was still holding onto in the living room.

She pressed her palms to her face.

“This is getting out of hand,” she muttered.

And yet…

Her hands dropped slowly to her lap as her lips curled, soft and bittersweet.

She wasn’t sure what scared her more—that he almost kissed her… or that she almost let him.

And if the phone hadn’t rung…

She wasn’t sure she would’ve stopped him.

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Chaewoon hadn’t slept well that night. His mind had been too busy, too occupied. And when morning came and he picked up Haein for work, he noticed—she hadn’t slept well either.

The air between them was awkward, heavier than usual.

The drive to the company was uncomfortably quiet. Chaewoon kept glancing at the rear-view mirror to check on her. Haein sat quietly, her eyes fixed on the window, but he noticed the little things—the way she blinked a little faster whenever she caught him looking, the way her fingers absentmindedly played with her pen.

And when their eyes met in the mirror, he quickly looked away.

He hated that.

Hated that he was the one making her feel this uncomfortable.

When they arrived, he moved to open the door for her, hesitating for a second before calling out, “Miss Haein.”

She paused on her tracks. Chaewoon took a breath, his voice steady and careful.

“I’d like to apologize for my behavior yesterday. It was inappropriate, and I made you uncomfortable. I assure you, it won’t happen again.”

Haein didn’t respond right away. She stayed still for a moment, letting his words sink in.

Then, with a small sigh, she spoke.

“What do you mean, Mr. Woo?” she said softly. “I think I should be the one apologizing. I fell asleep on your shoulder the entire afternoon. It must have been uncomfortable for you, and yet… you stayed. I don’t blame you for falling asleep too. You’re not a robot. And…”

She finally turned to face him fully, and for a moment, she almost smiled.

Chaewoon looked so much like a guilty puppy, apologizing even when he didn’t have to.

“I’m not mad or upset with you,” she said gently. “So please, don’t feel uncomfortable with me either.”

Chaewoon returned her smile.

Both of them knew it wasn’t just about her falling asleep on his shoulder, or him dozing off beside her. It was what happened after. The way their lips had almost…

But they chose not to mention it.

Two guarded souls, after all—two people who had built walls too high and too thick around themselves. So, they did what they always did: ignore the moment, pretend it didn’t happen, and let it quietly slip away.

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

When they arrived at the office, Haein noticed it again—the lingering stares from the employees, especially the women. Or rather, the stares directed not at her, but at her bodyguard, Chaewoon.

Haein scoffed under her breath. Her pace quickened, the sharp sound of her heels echoing down the hallway.

Chaewoon blinked, momentarily thrown off, before quietly matching her hurried steps.

Is she upset again? he wondered, noting the slight stiffness in her stride.

When they reached her office, Haein spun around, arms crossed, expression unreadable.

“I think you should wear a mask next time,” she said flatly. Chaewoon blinked. “…Excuse me?” he asked, genuinely confused.

“You’re too distracting,” she said, almost accusingly.

“Distracting to… whom exactly?” he asked, his brows furrowing.

“To the people working here. You’re too tall, and too han—” she stopped herself mid-sentence, clearing her throat awkwardly. “—frankly, too above average in looks. You draw too much attention. A mask would… solve that.”

She was rambling now, and Chaewoon, much like yesterday, found himself struggling not to smile. She was flustered—and he was thoroughly entertained.

Chaewoon tilted his head, the corner of his mouth twitching upward.

“So… let me get this straight,” he said slowly. “You want me to cover my face because I’m too distracting?”

Haein stiffened. “Don’t make it sound so ridiculous.”

“But it is ridiculous,” he said, a soft chuckle escaping him. “Should I wear sunglasses too? Maybe a hat? Full disguise?”

“Maybe,” she muttered, turning away and busying herself with the papers on her desk, pretending to look disinterested. “It’s called being considerate to the workplace environment.”

Chaewoon stepped closer, just enough that she could feel his presence behind her.

Haein froze for half a second—barely noticeable, but enough for him to catch it.

“Or should I just wear a scary face like this?” Chaewoon said as he furrowed his brows together and pressed his lips together.

She cleared her throat again, shuffling a stack of papers that didn’t actually need organizing. “You’re here to do your job, not to be… aesthetically disruptive.”

Chaewoon laughed, low and amused.

“Understood, Ma’am,” his voice held that teasing lilt that made her ears burn. “I’ll try my best to be less… distracting.”

Haein slammed the stack of papers down a little harder than necessary.

“Good,” she said shortly, refusing to meet his gaze.

But as Chaewoon leaned casually against the wall, arms crossed, watching her try so hard to maintain her cool, he couldn’t help but think:

I’m really in trouble now.

< Chapter 8 Chapter 10 >

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Hi everyone! It's been 2 weeks since the last update (aside from the 2 special chapters) I hope you guys are still here :')

Been busy (and lowkey stressed) with work and life lately. So my mind has been so distracted. And this chapter was supposed to be longer, but I figured I should just cut it and continue it for next chapter. I also kinda had a hard time finishing this chapter because my mind is already on the later parts of the story (yoon eunsung, chaewoon background, haein's illness, family hong drama) and yet I'm still not done with the current chapters. I want to pull my hair out.

Thank you again if you guys are still tuning in! I'm more active in Twitter/X esp with updates. If you want to be friends/moots, it's @dalilmountain. Ily and thank you for the patience and support ;-;

taglist: @lvnat1c @strangerinthesecretforest <3

UNSPOKEN Special Chapter 2

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

Special Chapter: An Intimate Moment (Sneak Peek)

In the quiet aftermath of a company party, Chaewoon and Haein find themselves wrapped in an intimate moment that turns from tender to charged with unspoken desire.

Unspoken will take a little longer to update again, so here's a little sneak peek of a future chapter I'm currently working on (this is when they've already established their relationship, maybe around chapter 18). Decided to use a scene where it's a little bit sensual hihi I hope you guys like it. (By the way it's actually my first time writing something this....idk sexy?? HAHAHA anyway pls forgive me if it's a bit cringe(?) tried my best to make it feel romantic ><)

taglist: @lvnat1c @strangerinthesecretforest <3

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It was late at night, the moonlight casting a soft silver glow through the windows of Chaewoon’s cozy home. The warm amber hue of the living room lamp bathed the space in gentle light. On the sofa, Chaewoon sat comfortably, Haein curled up on his lap, her head resting against the crook of his neck, arms loosely draped around his shoulders. His right hand moved in slow, soothing circles along her back, while his left hand rested securely at her waist.

He was still in his suit from earlier, the tie slightly loosened; she wore a sleek black dress from the company party, the fabric hugging her like a second skin. They stayed like that for a long, unspoken moment—wrapped in quiet, in warmth, in the kind of silence that didn’t need to be filled. They just… fit.

Haein moved slightly and looked up. “Am I not heavy?” she asked with a faint smile.

Chaewoon chuckled softly, brushing a loose strand of hair behind her ear. “You weigh like a feather.”

She grinned. “Good. Because I’m planning to stay like this for a while.”

He smiled, the corners of his eyes crinkling. “I’m not planning to let you go anyway.”

Chaewoon’s lips brushed gently against Haein’s cheek, then lingered a little longer on her forehead. A soft kiss followed on the tip of her nose, then her chin, her jawline… and finally, the curve of her neck. Each kiss was slow, deliberate, reverent—like he was memorizing her with his mouth.

He moved lower, his lips grazing the bare skin of her shoulder, trailing down to her arm, and finally, her hand. He kissed the back of it softly, lingering there before looking up at her—eyes warm, dark, and filled with something tender and unspoken.

“I always get surprised when I see this side of you,” Haein whispered, her cheeks slightly flushed.

Chaewoon chuckled softly, his voice low and rich. “I always try to control myself when I’m with you.”

“Oh really?” she teased, sliding her arms around his broad shoulders and gently running her fingers through his hair.

“You don’t have to, you know,” she murmured, her voice barely above a breath. “You don’t have to control yourself around me… or with me.”

His gaze sharpened, a flicker of heat dancing in his eyes. “I don’t think you know what you’re saying, Haein.”

She tilted her head, raising a brow. “Try me.”

In a heartbeat, the air shifted.

One second, she was playing with his hair. The next, she was gasping—his soft kisses deepening into slow, heated ones against the sensitive skin of her neck. His hands roamed gently, reverently, as if discovering her all over again. Every movement was careful but intense, driven by the quiet fire between them neither of them dared name.

Haein’s long black dress had ridden up her thighs, Chaewoon’s hand resting beneath the fabric, fingers grazing her skin as his lips traveled from her neck down to her chest, leaving a trail of marks on her skin.

Her grip tightened on his shoulders, the rising pleasure making her lightheaded.

Chaewoon paused, kissing her jawline as he whispered, voice low and rough, “Tell me if you want me to stop.”

Haein barely managed a breath, her lips brushing against his ear. “What if I don’t want you to?”

“Haein….” He let out a soft growl at her words, his hands tightening slightly around her thighs, the tension between them dangerously rising.

Slowly, Haein met his gaze. Her hands slid up to his loosened necktie, tugging it free with deliberate ease before letting it fall to the floor.

“Do whatever you want with me tonight,” she whispered.

Something shifted in Chaewoon’s eyes—his gaze darkened, a silent promise sparking behind it. In one fluid motion, he lifted her into his arms and started toward the bedroom.

“Don’t worry,” he murmured, lips brushing her temple. “I’ll take care of you tonight.”

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----> Unspoken Chapter List

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

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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.

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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.

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----> Unspoken Chapter List

UNSPOKEN (말하지 않은)

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

Chapter 8: The Sound of Rain and Heartbeat

As music plays and rain falls outside, Haein and Chaewoon find themselves letting their guards down, just enough to feel a sense of peace. In each other's presence, they begin to realize trust can be found in the smallest, quietest moments.

“Then I’m just going to stay here as well, so you’re not, you know… bored.” Haein cleared her throat, trying to sound as nonchalant as possible.

She opened her phone and plugged in an earphone to listen to some music. Chaewoon noticed Haein still preferred using her wired earphones when everyone else had moved to wireless ones. That piqued his curiosity. Was it simply preference? Or did those earphones hold sentimental value to her? For some reason, he wanted to know. He didn’t know why, but somehow, even the tiniest quirks about her made him pause and wonder. Tt’s the little things like that made him want to know her more.

Haein noticed him looking at them and pulled one out, offering it to him. “Would you like to listen as well?”

Haein was sure she must be drunk. She’d been doing and saying things she’d normally never do. Before she could retract her offer, Chaewoon had already taken the other earphone from her hand and placed it in his ear.

And he smiled.

Haein blinked. She had seen him smile before, of course. But this one was a bit different.

“I think we listen to the same music,” he said. “I have a CD of this album back at home.”

Oh.

A CD? In this day and age? But then again, she was also the one still using wired earphones.

That was a new piece of information about Chaewoon. A simple one, but she felt a strange sense of satisfaction in knowing something new about him.

Minutes passed, and before she knew it, Haein had already fallen asleep beside Chaewoon.

She was not normally so at ease like this. She was always on guard. Tense. Suspicious of everyone around her.

But why was it that when she was with him, she felt relaxed? She became more clumsy. She blurted out whatever came to mind. And she was able to fall asleep so soundly like this next to him?

Chaewoon, on the other hand, swiftly moved to catch her head with his shoulder when she dozed off.

Her head was now resting against him. He stiffened.

He could feel her slow, even breathing. How she shifted closer to him because of his warmth.

This was a problem.

Chaewoon let out a quiet sigh, staring straight ahead, careful not to move too much.

This was definitely a problem.

He was supposed to be her bodyguard—her shadow, her protector. Someone who stayed at a careful distance, unseen until necessary. And yet, here he was, sitting next to her, sharing an earphone, with her head resting on his shoulder like it was the most natural thing in the world.

She really lets her guard down around me now.

It was subtle, but he noticed. The way she talked more freely, the way she wasn’t as cold or distant. How she embarrassed herself around him yet didn’t push him away.

And now, she had fallen asleep.

So defenseless.

Chaewoon swallowed, shifting ever so slightly so that she’d be more comfortable. He could hear the faint sound of the music playing through their shared earphones. A song he knew well. One he had played on repeat when he was younger, back when he still collected CDs.

Haein stirred, shifting closer.

His body went rigid for a moment before he forced himself to relax.

This is fine. It’s just a small thing.

The rain continued to pour outside, tapping lightly against the windows. The warmth between them was unmistakable.

Maybe it was a problem.

But for now, just for now—he decided he wouldn’t think too much about it.

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The rain continued to fall outside, a steady rhythm against the windows. The warmth between them was undeniable, quiet and unspoken.

And before Chaewoon knew it—he, too, had fallen asleep.

It was rare for him to lower his guard. Years of training had made it nearly impossible for him to rest fully, always attuned to every sound, every movement, every potential threat. Even when he slept, it was light, almost restless, ready to wake at the slightest disturbance.

But now, with the soft hum of music in his ear and the steady warmth of Haein against him, his body relaxed before he could even realize it. His breathing evened out, the tension in his shoulders loosening.

Maybe it was the rain. Maybe it was the exhaustion he refused to acknowledge.

Or maybe, it was just her.

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Haein stirred first.

Her lashes fluttered as she blinked herself awake, her mind still hazy with sleep.

And that’s when she realized—her head was still resting against him.

Her brain took a few seconds to catch up. She was warm. Too warm. There was a steady rise and fall beneath her, the familiar scent of his cologne lingering in the air.

She turned her head slightly—only to be met with the sight of Chaewoon’s sleeping face.

Oh.

Haein stilled.

She had never seen him asleep before. Not once.

Chaewoon was always so alert, so sharp—always standing, always watching. It was almost unsettling to see him like this, completely at ease. His features were softer in sleep, his usual unreadable expression gone.

She found herself staring.

His lashes were long, his jaw sharp, his lips slightly parted as he breathed steadily. The dim light from outside cast gentle shadows on his face, making him look even more peaceful.

This is unfair, she thought. He’s supposed to be intimidating.

And yet, there was something endearing about this.

Something that made her chest feel tight.

Her gaze lowered slightly, taking in how his hands were still loosely resting on his lap, how his body had leaned ever so slightly toward hers as he slept.

For someone so disciplined, so constantly aware, it was strange to see him this relaxed.

He trusts me.

The thought struck her unexpectedly.

He wasn’t the only one making her feel at ease.

She made him feel at ease, too.

Her fingers twitched slightly, an unconscious urge to reach out. To touch, to confirm that he was really here like this, unguarded. But before she could even think to move—

His lashes fluttered.

And then, his eyes opened, slow and drowsy, adjusting to his surroundings.

They met hers immediately.

Silence.

Haein’s breath caught in her throat.

Chaewoon blinked, his gaze heavy with sleep, his mind still catching up with reality.

For a moment, neither of them moved.

The music still played faintly in the background, the rain still fell outside, but all Haein could hear was the quiet pounding of her own heart. Or maybe it was his. She couldn’t tell.

She should look away. She should.

But she didn’t.

And neither did he.

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Chaewoon felt it first—the subtle shift beside him, the soft stir of movement as Haein lifted her head. He was still half-asleep, his mind floating somewhere between dreams and waking. Normally, he’d be alert at the slightest change in his surroundings. Years of discipline had trained him to be that way.

But not this time.

Even as his senses registered the movement, his body didn’t react. It was as if something within him told him to stay still. To rest. To just be—there, next to her.

He could feel her gaze then, even with his eyes still closed. A quiet presence. Familiar. Warm.

And so, he opened his eyes.

Slowly.

And the first thing he saw was her.

Haein’s face, close to his. Her eyes locked with his, wide and unblinking. Time didn’t just slow—it completely stopped.

He froze.

He blinked once, trying to gather his thoughts, but they scattered just as quickly.

Beautiful.

That was the only word his sleepy mind could offer. No strategies. No logic. Just that one, simple truth.

The sound of rain and music faded quietly in the background, drowned out by the sudden pounding of a heartbeat. He couldn’t tell if it was his or hers.

He watched her breath catch, the way her eyes slightly widened. There was surprise there. Maybe uncertainty. But she didn’t pull away.

And he didn’t move either.

He should have. He knew that.

But for once, Chaewoon let the moment stay. Still. Quiet. Suspended.

And somehow, it felt right.

< Chapter 7 Chapter 9 >

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hi everyone! this chapter is a little short and it ended with a cliffhanger Im so sorry afsghjdkfdsa

I have so much in store for this story, I want to include a moment where Haein has to stay in Chaewoon's place for the time being and she meets his cat, Mansik. They also grow even closer together.

But I think I'm really going to be busy with work for the upcoming weeks. Hopefully, I find the time and energy over the weekends to update at least one chapter each week.

For the meantime, I'm thinking of uploading some of my drafts ><

First Love - my delusional story between Ju Jihoon and Song Jihyo

angst, heart-break, memories, little moments, slow-burn, reunion

What began as young love on the set of their first drama was lost to missed chances, early heartbreaks, and painful regrets. Years passed, but old memories still resurfaced—and they’re left wondering if some first loves are meant to return.

Trauma Code: A Hero in Love - a series of one-shot stories between Dr. Baek Kang Hyuk and Dr. Song Hye Joo (my OC played by Song Hye Kyo)

romance, comedy, lots of teasings, slow-burn

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

I already have a few chapters written with both of this, so I guess for the mean time, while the Unspoken Series takes a little hiatus, I hope you will enjoy these two stories I have prepared ><

taglist: @lvnat1c @strangerinthesecretforest <3

UNSPOKEN (말하지 않은)

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

CHAPTER 7: Rain, Candy, and Curiosity

Caught in her own curiosity, Haein fumbles through embarrassment while Chaewoon remains calm and amused. But as the rain pours, so do the quiet revelations that bring them closer.

First, she let herself fall asleep in his arms and even tugged on his sleeve to stay. Second, she got caught staring at his face this morning. And now, third—she was literally caught digging up his background.

Back-to-back humiliations.

At this point, she might as well order him to shoot her on the spot.

Haein tried to compose herself, but her flushed cheeks and red ears were traitors, exposing her embarrassment completely.

And Chaewoon? He had to bite the inside of his cheek to stop himself from chuckling.

“I was just curious,” she said, straightening her posture, trying to regain control of the situation. “You’re my bodyguard, after all. And I know nothing about you. It’s a simple background check.”

“I see,” he replied, his tone unreadable.

Silence.

The only sound was the soft clink of the coffee cup and plate as he placed them on the table.

Then—

“You could just ask me yourself, you know.”

Haein froze.

Her pride told her to just shut up and drop it. But her embarrassment had already hit rock bottom, so at this point—why not just go all in?

She took a deep breath and asked, bluntly—

“Then… is this your wife and daughter?”

Chaewoon raised a brow. Instead of answering, he tilted his head slightly and asked back, “Is the information relevant to my job?”

His tone wasn’t cold. If anything, it sounded mildly amused.

And she hated that—because damn it, he was right. Whether he had a family or not had nothing to do with his work.

“…It’s not,” she admitted, her voice barely above a mumble.

And then—to her horror—her mouth pursed slightly in defeat. She quickly looked down, embarrassment taking over her.

“I apologize for looking into your personal information,” she added, her fingers subtly curling into her palm. “You can go now.” She said in the most nonchalant tone she can muster.

For a moment, she thought he’d just leave. But instead—

He smiled.

Then, to her surprise, he kneeled down to meet her gaze.

Haein’s breath hitched.

“Yes, the woman and the little girl in the photo are my family,” he said calmly. “But they’re not my wife and daughter. That’s my older sister and my niece. They live abroad. I was tagged in that photo because I took it. If you had looked at the caption, you would’ve seen it says—”

He took out his phone and turned the screen to her.

“‘Thank you, Uncle Chaewoon.’”

Haein wanted to die on the spot.

She had been so shocked when she saw the photo that she completely missed the caption. And now? Now she was even more embarrassed that she had boldly assumed—right in front of him—that it was his wife and child.

Chaewoon, still crouched before her, continued smoothly—

“And to answer some of your other unspoken questions…”

Haein swallowed.

Oh god. He knew.

“No,” he said, “I don’t have a wife or a child of my own.”

Haein internally screamed.

“I’m also not in a romantic relationship with anyone, nor am I seeing someone.”

Her ears burned hotter.

“I’m guarding you 24/7, so I wouldn’t have time for that anyway.”

WHY WAS HE SAYING THIS SO CASUALLY?!

“As for my background,” he went on, “I was a soldier before. I quit for personal reasons and decided to use my skills elsewhere.”

Haein could barely process anything anymore.

“If you’re wondering why I can cook—”

She was wondering, but he didn’t need to say it out loud!

“—my mother taught me from a young age.”

Haein clenched her hands. Please stop talking.

“And lastly,” he said, tilting his head slightly, “don’t hesitate to ask me directly from now on.”

She inhaled sharply.

“I don’t mind it.” He gave her a knowing look.

Then—

“Did I answer most of your curiosity about me, Miss Haein?”

Haein could only stare.

Her pride was shattered. Her mind was blank.

And she could only think—

She was never living this down.

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Chaewoon had to actively stop himself from smiling.

He had seen many versions of Haein since becoming her bodyguard.

The cold Haein, sharp-tongued and dismissive. The composed Haein, perfectly put together in public. The frustrated Haein, sighing at her family during dinner. The exhausted Haein, asleep in her office.

But this Haein?

The one sitting before him, too embarrassed to look him in the eye after getting caught digging up his background?

This one was new. And he was thoroughly entertained.

It wasn’t just that she was embarrassed. It was that she had been so obvious about it.

The way she fumbled, the way she quickly changed the topic, the way she boldly asked if he had a wife and child—only to realize too late how ridiculous her assumption was.

And now?

Now she was sitting there, stunned into silence, her hands curled into small fists on her lap, her lips pursed like she was refusing to react.

She was obviously trying to will herself to disappear.

And for some reason, he found it… adorable.

He had expected her to dig into his background at some point. She was meticulous, after all. And she never trusted people easily.

But what he hadn’t expected was how much her curiosity about him would amuse him.

The fact that she actually sent him off to get coffee just so she could secretly look into him. The way she had stared at that photo of his sister and niece, brows furrowed in serious contemplation.

The way her entirebody froze when she realized he caught her.

And now—this silence.

He exhaled softly, shaking his head. He really shouldn’t be smiling right now. She’d probably throw something at his head. But he had to admit…

The thought of Haein sitting in her room, scrolling through his files with that same little furrow in her brow, trying to piece together who exactly he was—

It was strangely endearing. She wanted to know more about him. And that was something he hadn’t expected at all.

But he also knew, if she dug a little deeper, someday, somehow, starts knowing a little too much about who he really was, he wasn’t sure if he’d be ready for that day. A part of him hoped it would never come.

He decided to clear off his thoughts, burying it deep in the corners of his mind.

Chaewoon leaned back slightly, watching her closely.

“Well?” he said, raising a brow. “Did that answer everything you wanted to know?”

Haein finally snapped out of her frozen state, looking almost offended by the question.

“…Shut up,” she muttered, taking a sip of her coffee—clearly just trying to do something to avoid responding.

Chaewoon smirked.

So she’s still embarrassed.

He let out a quiet chuckle, deciding—for once—to let her off the hook.

For now.

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The wind shifted, carrying with it the scent of incoming rain. The rustling leaves whispered a quiet warning, and the clouds above darkened to gray.

Haein was still seated in the garden, very aware of Chaewoon’s presence beside her. She was still trying to recover from her earlier embarrassment, keeping her composure as if she hadn’t just spent the last ten minutes being flustered beyond belief.

Meanwhile, Chaewoon was doing his best to suppress a smile.

The way she kept shifting slightly in her seat, how she avoided his gaze yet kept sneaking glances when she thought he wouldn’t notice—it was all too endearing.

The first raindrop landed soundlessly on the table. Then another.

Before she could fully process it, Chaewoon had already moved.

In one smooth motion, he stood up, unfolded the blanket from earlier, and draped it over her head, shielding her from the rain.

Haein looked up, startled. “What—”

“We should head inside now,” he said simply, his deep voice calm and steady. “It’s about to rain.”

And just as the words left his lips, the sky opened up. The drizzle turned into a downpour in seconds.

Chaewoon didn’t even flinch as the rain hit his shoulders, dampening his clothes. Instead, he adjusted the blanket over her more securely, making sure she wouldn’t get wet.

Haein, still frozen in place, blinked up at him.

Something about the way he did it so naturally—without hesitation, without even thinking twice—made her chest tighten just a little.

She lowered her gaze, gripping the edges of the blanket. “…Okay.” Chaewoon nodded. “Let’s go.”

And just like that, he walked beside her, shielding her from the rain all the way back inside.

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It had been raining all afternoon.

The sky was a deep shade of gray, the steady rhythm of raindrops tapping against the windows of the mansion. Haein was in the living room, curled up on the couch with her laptop, trying to work—but her eyes kept wandering to the garden outside.

Chaewoon noticed, of course.

“You can’t go out in this weather,” he said from his usual spot near the door, arms crossed.

“I wasn’t planning to,” she said, a little too quickly.

He raised an eyebrow. She ignored him.

But ten minutes later, she was standing by the glass doors, watching the rain with that same distant look in her eyes.

Chaewoon sighed. He disappeared for a moment, and when he came back, he was holding a blanket. “Here,” he said simply, draping it over her shoulders.

He then reached for something in his pocket and handed it to her. A small packet of honey candies.

She frowned, confused. “What’s this for?”

“You always take one when you’re stressed,” he said, like it was the most obvious thing in the world.

Haein stared at the candies in her palm. She had never once told him that.

Yet, somehow… he knew.

Her fingers curled around them slowly.

Chaewoon was already stepping back to his usual place, acting like this—this warmth, this quiet attentiveness—was just part of his job.

But Haein knew better.

She didn’t say thank you.

She just unwrapped a candy and popped it into her mouth, letting the subtle sweetness melt on her tongue. Then, ever so slightly, she pulled the blanket tighter around herself.

Chaewoon glanced at her.

And in that moment, she knew he understood.

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“Oh, by the way, you don’t have to accompany me all day when I’m on a day off. I’ll just be here in the house anyway.”

“It’s all right. When I found out you’re having a day off, I was already here in your living room. And I figured I’d just stay in case you needed me for anything.”

Haein bit her lip. She kind of felt bad. Because of her hasty decision, Chaewoon had to spend a boring day with her in this house—wait, did she just feel bad?? Haein?? Feeling bad?? Haein could honestly care less about the people around her. And he was her bodyguard, for god’s sake. He was just doing his job.

But then again, she could’ve just dismissed him earlier, told him he could take the day off.

But then again, why didn’t she?

Perhaps, something inside her wanted him to stay. Maybe she had gotten too used to his presence that she no longer minded him being around.

And it was getting ridiculous.

“I think I’ll just be resting inside my room for the rest of the day. You can go home now… if you’d like.”

Haein wanted to smack her forehead. Why did I say it like that?

She could’ve just told him he was dismissed. But no. She left the decision up to him. As if she wasn’t the one with authority here. As if… she was hoping he wouldn’t actually leave.

And the worst part? She was waiting for his answer.

Chaewoon, of course, knew exactly what was going on.

“If you’re leaving the decision to me,” he said, voice steady, “then I would like to stay.”

Ridiculous.

Her fingers twitched. She quickly busied herself by reaching for her coffee, masking whatever was going on inside her. Fine. If he wanted to stay, that was his choice.

“Don’t you have any hobbies?” she blurted out.

Chaewoon raised an eyebrow.

Haein internally cringed. Why did that sound so weird?

She quickly tried to fix it. “Sorry, what I meant was—”

But before she could even finish, Chaewoon let out a low chuckle.

Haein swore her ears were heating up again.

Why was he chuckling?

“Yes, I do have some hobbies,” he answered, still amused. “One of them is cycling. But I can’t really do that right now because of the weather.”

“Oh.”

There was a brief pause.

Haein wanted to say something else—maybe something that would end this ridiculous conversation—but before she could, she caught the way Chaewoon glanced at her.

Like he knew.

And the truth was—he did.

Chaewoon could’ve used this time to report back to his boss. Or gather more information about the chairman. He had plenty of things to do.

But instead, he chose to stay.

Even if it meant just standing outside her room all day.

< Chapter 6 Chapter 8 >

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hi!! thank you to those who are still reading this >< this chapter feels a little shorter than how I normally do chapters but I think this is better so it's less boring for the readers?? idk honestly afsghdjgfgdhs

might also be a little slow on updates starting tomorrow since I'm going to get a little busy right now irl :')

I also have upcoming stories I want to upload! ju jihoon is still the male lead of course😂

see you next chapter!!

taglist: @lvnat1c @strangerinthesecretforest <3

UNSPOKEN (말하지 않은)

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

CHAPTER 6: Curiosities

After a quiet moment of care, Haein and Chaewoon start to see each other differently. What began as simple concern turns into something more, leaving them both with questions they didn’t expect to ask.

The car’s engine hummed as he drove through the quiet city streets. His fingers tightened slightly around the steering wheel.

He should’ve left right after. That was the plan. That had always been the plan.

He kept reminding himself—You were only doing your job.

Get her home. Make sure she’s safe. Report back. That was it. That’s all this was.

But it wasn’t, was it?

His mind drifted back to the moment, just minutes earlier. The soft weight of her in his arms as he carried her to her bed. The way her hair fell over her face, the warmth of her breath brushing against his collar. He remembered kneeling down, tucking her in with practiced, detached care. And then—

That tug.

So faint. So subtle. Yet it hit him like a bullet.

Her fingers, curled into his sleeve. Her voice, soft and sleepy. “…Stay.”

Chaewoon’s jaw clenched at the memory.

She hadn’t even been fully conscious. Didn’t know what she was asking. It wasn’t intentional. But it didn’t matter. Because something in him had responded anyway. Something dangerous.

He had hesitated. For the first time in a long time, he had hesitated.

He wasn’t supposed to do that. He wasn’t just a bodyguard. He wasn’t just a driver. He was a spy. A watcher in the dark. And now, not only was he reporting the Chairman’s words and movements—but hers too.

Every time she spoke, every time she looked too tired, too sad, too human—he was supposed to observe it, and file it away like evidence. Every word, every glance, every crack in her voice—he was expected to report all of it. But lately, he found himself leaving most of it out. Especially the parts where she was vulnerable. The parts that made her feel real. The parts that made him feel something.

That half-asleep voice calling him back. Those fingers clutching his jacket like he was her last lifeline.

That instinct inside him that wanted to sit by her side a little longer.

He told himself again, This is just a job. But it didn’t land like it used to.

Because for the first time, he didn’t want to detach.

He hadn’t wanted to let go. And that terrified him more than anything else.

His grip on the steering wheel tightened as the streetlights passed overhead. He was in too deep.

And if he wasn’t careful, Haein wouldn’t be the only one left vulnerable.

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Hong Haein woke up feeling unusually well-rested. Which was strange, considering the last thing she remembered was reviewing reports in her office, fighting off sleep.

She sat up, blinking groggily. The familiar walls of her bedroom came into focus.

Wait.

Her room?

How—?

Her gaze shifted to the bedside table, where a neatly arranged breakfast tray sat next to a small packet of medicine.

And then she saw it.

A folded note.

She already knew who it was from before she even picked it up.

“Eat your breakfast. Drink your medicine.”

No greeting. No signature. Just straightforward and to the point—exactly how Woo Chaewoon always spoke to her.

Haein exhaled, a small, involuntary smile tugging at the corner of her lips. Typical.

But just as she reached for the cup of warm tea, a memory from the night before suddenly hit her.

—The feeling of strong arms lifting her.

—A quiet, steady presence beside her bed.

—The warmth of a jacket in her grasp.

—Her own voice, half-asleep, murmuring, “…Stay.”

Haein froze.

Oh. No.

Her stomach dropped as the realization sank in.

She slapped a hand over her face.

Please tell me that didn’t actually happen.

But it did.

And now she had to face him.

…Or, maybe she could just avoid him for the rest of the day. Possibly forever.

Yes. That sounded like a solid plan. Absolutely.

Haein had barely wrapped her mind around the idea of avoiding Chaewoon for the entire day when her phone buzzed.

Chaewoon: Are you awake?

She stared at the screen, her fingers hovering over the keyboard. She could ignore him. Pretend she was still asleep. But knowing him, he’d just find a way to confirm it himself.

With a sigh, she typed back.

Haein: Yes.

His reply was instant.

Chaewoon: May I come in for a second?

Her breath hitched.

What? Here? Now?

She sat frozen for a few seconds, completely flustered. She could shut him down coldly, tell him she didn’t need anything. That would be the logical thing to do. The easy thing.

And yet, she hesitated.

Before she could decide, there was a soft knock on the door.

“Ma’am?” His voice was calm but firm. “Are you alright?”

She pressed her lips together, gripping the blanket on her lap. If I don’t answer, maybe he’ll just leave—

“I’m coming in.”

Her eyes widened. “Wait—”

The door opened.

Chaewoon stepped inside, scanning the room, and when his eyes landed on her—very much unharmed, sitting in bed still wearing her office clothes from yesterday—his tense shoulders relaxed.

Haein narrowed her eyes. “What are you doing here?”

Instead of answering, he took a few steps forward, holding up a small container.

She blinked. “What is that?”

“Ointment.”

“For?”

He nodded toward her feet. She followed his gaze—only then noticing the faint scratches along the sides.

Haein frowned. She must’ve gotten them from walking around in heels all day yesterday inside and outside the company. She remembered him insisting she rest her feet for a while, but she stubbornly refused. No wonder her feet now looked like that. She hadn’t even realized.

“You didn’t notice,” Chaewoon observed, setting the container on the bedside table.

“It’s nothing,” she muttered. “I don’t need that.”

He looked at her for a second, then knelt beside the bed, opening the container.

“I can apply it myself,” she said quickly.

“Please let me.”

The words were simple, quiet. But something in the way he said them made her pause.

She could argue, tell him it was unnecessary. But instead, she found herself sighing as she stretched out one foot, just slightly.

Chaewoon took it as permission.

His hands were steady, his touch careful as he smoothed the ointment over her skin. It was efficient—clinical, almost. But the warmth of his fingers lingered, and for some reason, it made her stomach feel strangely unsettled.

She stared down at him, at the way he focused on his task with quiet precision.

“…Why are you doing this?” she asked, her voice softer than she intended.

“Because you don’t take care of yourself,” he said simply, not looking up.

Her lips parted slightly, caught off guard by the blunt honesty.

For once, she didn’t have a sharp retort.

She just watched him, heart beating a little too loudly in her chest.

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Haein hadn’t meant to stare.

She really hadn’t.

But as Chaewoon carefully applied the ointment, she found herself noticing things she had never paid attention to before.

The way his brows furrowed ever so slightly, a flicker of disapproval at the sight of her scratched-up feet. The way his long fingers worked with precision, careful yet firm. The way his eyes blinked, just a bit slower, every time she flinched at the cool sting of the ointment.

She knew he was handsome. Of course, she did. A little too handsome, honestly. But she had never really looked at him before. Not like this.

And now, for some reason, she was seeing his face as if for the first time.

The sharp angles softened by the warm glow of the morning light. The contrast of his dark lashes against his skin. The way his lips pressed together in quiet concentration.

It was… distracting.

Too distracting.

Haein caught herself before she could stare any longer. But it was already too late.

Because just as she snapped out of it, Chaewoon glanced up—

And caught her staring.

Their eyes met.

A brief, fleeting second stretched into something much longer, something heavier.

Her throat went dry.

Immediately, she looked away, clearing her throat as if that could erase the moment. “Thank you,” she said quickly, voice a little too firm. “You can go now.”

Chaewoon, as always, didn’t react much. He simply nodded, closing the container and standing up.

But as he walked toward the door, Haein was very aware of the fact that her heart was beating just a little too fast.

And that was the most annoying part of all.

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Chaewoon was a spy. A professional. He had been trained to detect the subtlest of changes, the smallest of shifts in energy.

So of course, he noticed.

He noticed the way Haein’s gaze lingered on him a little too long. The way her breathing changed ever so slightly when his fingers brushed against her skin. The way she was staring—really staring—as if she was seeing him for the first time.

And the most frustrating part?

He felt it.

A warmth creeping up the back of his neck. The sudden self-awareness of his own hands, his posture. A flicker of something unfamiliar curling in his stomach.

He had faced interrogation, surveillance, and the world’s most dangerous criminals without so much as blinking. He had never been intimidated by anyone.

But under her gaze, for the first time—

He felt… shy.

It was ridiculous.

He willed himself to focus, to keep his hands steady as he finished applying the ointment. But when he finally looked up and met her eyes, something in his chest dropped.

And then—just as quickly—she snapped her head to the side, clearing her throat, hastily dismissing him.

Chaewoon almost—almost—smiled.

She had lost her composure first. That was something, at least.

He stood, giving a brief nod before stepping out of her room.

The moment the door shut behind him, he exhaled sharply. His pulse was annoyingly unsteady. His ears felt oddly warm.

He headed straight for the kitchen, grabbed a glass of water, and downed it in one go. Then, setting the glass down, he wiped a hand over his forehead.

What the hell was that?

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Haein wanted to bury herself alive.

She had barely survived that embarrassing encounter with Chaewoon, and now, all she wanted to do was crawl back under the covers and pretend it never happened.

But then—

A familiar scent drifted toward her.

She blinked, glancing at the bedside table. Oh. Right. Breakfast.

Fine. She’d eat first. Then continue moping.

She picked up her spoon and took a bite.

…And immediately paused.

Something was different.

She took another bite, slower this time.

The taste was—better than usual. Which was strange, because their family chef was already excellent. But this? This had a warmth to it. A personal touch.

Had Chaewoon ordered it from somewhere?

She needed to know.

Still half-lost in her hunger thoughts, she grabbed her phone and sent a text.

Haein: Where did you get this breakfast?

It didn’t take long for him to reply.

Chaewoon: I made it.

Haein froze mid-chew.

He… cooked it?

She stared at the screen, then back at her food. Then back at the screen.

Woo Chaewoon—the man who barely spoke, who always had that unreadable expression, who moved like a human shadow—could cook?

Her curiosity flared, completely uninvited.

Since when? Where did he learn? Why is he good?

And then, a far more dangerous thought entered her mind.

Does he have a family?

She had never even considered it before. When he was first assigned to her, she had been too annoyed, too disinterested to care about his personal life. But now…

He was older than her. Ten years older.

Does he have a wife?

A girlfriend?

The idea of Chaewoon coming home to someone—someone waiting for him, cooking for him the way he cooked for her—made something twist uncomfortably in her chest.

Haein immediately shut the thought down.

She was being ridiculous.

She stabbed at her food, scowling.

She didn’t care.

…But somehow, she had to know.

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Chaewoon knew Haein had taken the day off. It was a sudden decision early that morning when she sent a quick text to her assistant, her personal driver, and him.

And he was already outside her room when he received the text, ointment in hand. He had to give it to her or atleast make sure she uses it. It was the only reason he had asked to come into her room earlier.

She was a workaholic—someone who rarely, if ever, took a break—so it had crossed his mind to wonder why. But at the same time, he was relieved. At least she knew how to rest.

Now, his job was simple. Stay close. Be there if she needed anything.

It was a quiet morning, until his phone buzzed. A text from Haein.

Haein: Where did you get this breakfast?

He blinked. His first thought: Is something wrong with it?

Chaewoon: I made it.

No reply.

A small crease formed between his brows.

Did she not like it? Did it taste bad?

He had made it without much thought, just going about his usual routine. And yet, now that she was actually eating it, he found himself oddly self-conscious.

Maybe he should have just let the family chef cook for her. Maybe—

His phone buzzed again. His eyes immediately darting to her text.

Haein: Thanks. I like it.

Chaewoon exhaled, a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding.

And before he could stop himself—

He smiled.

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Haein couldn’t stop thinking about it.

It was annoying.

How come she knew next to nothing about her own bodyguard?

Other than the obvious—tall, quiet, handsome, surprisingly good at cooking, and annoyingly considerate—she knew nothing.

She considered asking her grandfather, but immediately scrapped the idea. Knowing him, he’d probably bring it up to Chaewoon directly, and there was no way she was dealing with that level of embarrassment.

So instead, she pulled out her phone and messaged her secretary.

Haein: Give me anything you can find on Woo Chaewoon.

Secretary: Your bodyguard?

Haein: Yes.

Secretary: Shouldn’t you already know about him since he’s, you know… your bodyguard?

Haein: I wouldn’t be asking you if I did.

Her secretary, to their credit, didn’t ask any more questions.

Now all she had to do was wait. But sitting still wasn’t an option.

Maybe—just maybe—she could get some information out of him herself.

Casually. Subtly. Completely normal conversation.

She grabbed her laptop (so it looked like she was working) and stepped out into the garden. Where, as expected, Chaewoon was already positioned a few steps away, arms crossed, watching the surroundings.

She took a deep breath, calming the ridiculous nervous energy in her chest.

Alright, Woo Chaewoon. Let’s see what I can find out about you.

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Haein had a plan. Casually strike up a conversation with Chaewoon. You know, just to get a little information out of him. She was just a little curious after all. Just a little.

But it was easier said than done.

She tried forming natural conversation starters in her head, but it’s been 20 minutes since she went outside her room and pretended to look busy with her laptop in the garden.

Maybe she’d just wait whatever her secretary found out about him after all.

And then, a notification popped up on her laptop.

Finally.

Her secretary had sent a file and some links.

Nice.

But she couldn’t open them. Not yet. Not when Chaewoon was right there, just a few steps behind her.

Sure, he was far enough that he wouldn’t be able to read her screen, but still—she couldn’t risk it. She needed him gone, just for a few minutes.

So, in the most nonchalant voice she could muster, she said, “Can you bring me coffee? And maybe a few snacks.” She never ordered him around for simple things like this. But desperate times called for desperate measures.

Chaewoon glanced at her, tilting his head slightly—almost as if questioning the odd request—but he nodded and left without a word.

As soon as he was gone, she opened everything.

First, the basics.

Birthday: December 10.

“Oh,” she murmured. “That’s in a few weeks.”

Then—

Military background. Marine Corps. 707th Special Mission Group.

Her brows lifted. A soldier? A high-ranking one, actually.

“How did he end up as a bodyguard?” she muttered to herself.

Unfortunately, there was nothing about his family. But—

A link to a social media profile. She clicked on it.

As expected, no posts. Not even a profile picture. Clearly just for business or minimal communication.

But then—

Tagged posts.

Bingo.

Most of them were group photos from training and work. Nothing too interesting.

Until—

Her eyes landed on one particular photo.

A woman. And a child.

Her fingers froze on the trackpad.

His wife? His daughter?

Her mind raced.

Before she could process the thought, someone cleared their throat.

Right behind her.

Shit.

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When Chaewoon first saw Haein step out of her room, he nearly did a double take.

Gone were the usual luxury clothes, the perfectly styled hair, and the sharp, intimidating makeup. Instead, she was in cozy attire—loose, comfortable clothes, her hair casually falling over her shoulders, her face bare of any enhancements.

It wasn’t a sight he was used to.

And oddly enough… he found her even prettier like this.

Of course, he already knew she was beautiful. He had met plenty of beautiful women in his life. But without any bias, he could say with certainty—Hong Haein was probably the most beautiful of all.

That thought alone made him mentally slap himself. What the hell am I thinking?

He quickly focused back on his job.

She was working, of course. Even on her day off. But something was different. She was restless. She kept glancing at her phone. Checking her laptop inbox. Again, and again.

She’s waiting for something, he concluded.

Then—

“Can you bring me coffee? And maybe a few snacks?”

That made him pause. It wasn’t strange, exactly. But she had never asked him to do something so trivial before.

Had she finally warmed up to him? Enough to start giving him simple errands?

Without questioning it, he nodded and left. But when he returned—

He found her eyes glued to her laptop. And on her screen, his background information. He immediately understood.

So that’s what she was waiting for.

Amusement flickered in his eyes as he watched her scroll, intensely focused.

Then, when she landed on the photo—the one with the woman and the little girl—he noticed it.

Her brows furrowed.

The same way they always did when she was too focused… or irritated.

And she stared at it for a little too long.

Chaewoon couldn’t help but smile. He shook his head lightly.

Is this why she suddenly sent me to get snacks?

Somehow, he found it… oddly cute.

Finally, deciding to put an end to her “research,” he cleared his throat.

And immediately, she froze in place.

If he had less self-control, he would’ve teased her about it. Or maybe let out a chuckle.

But if he wanted to keep his head intact, it was probably best not to.

< Chapter 5 Chapter 7 >

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Okay!! My favorite part was actually supposed to be included here in this chapter but I realized it was getting too long so I had to cut it into two parts >< working on Chapter 7 right now!! This is where I was actually cheesing the entire time I was writing this story.

taglist: @lvnat1c @strangerinthesecretforest <3

UNSPOKEN (말하지 않은)

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

Chapter 5: A Quiet Moment

The tension in Haein's life only grows. Chaewoon, ever observant, quietly steps in when she needs him most. As the two spend more time together, they grow closer—Haein, letting herself be vulnerable around him for the first time, and Chaewoon, beginning to waver in ways he didn’t expect.

It was one of those nights again.

The kind Haein never looked forward to—their daily evening family gathering. Chaewoon knew how much she disliked them. Even before he became her bodyguard, when he was still accompanying her grandfather, he had seen the way she avoided these dinners, the way she always seemed out of place among her own family.

Most nights, she found a way to skip them, using work as an excuse. But sometimes, like tonight, she had no choice. Especially after what had happened that morning between her and her mother.

As they approached the entrance to the main dining hall, Chaewoon felt it—the slight shift in her posture, the tension creeping into her shoulders. It was subtle, but he had learned to pick up on these things. The way her steps slowed just enough to be noticeable, as if she were bracing herself.

She didn’t look like someone going in to have dinner with family. She looked like someone preparing for battle.

Her back was straighter than usual, her movements controlled. Even her expression was sharper, her gaze more guarded.

She was trying to mask her discomfort.

Chaewoon didn’t say anything. He simply stepped forward and opened the door, his presence steady beside her—silent, unwavering. Just as he always was.

The doors to the main dining hall swung open, and for a brief moment, the room fell into silence. Haein was used to this—used to the way conversations would pause, the way heads would turn ever so slightly as if to acknowledge her presence without truly welcoming it.

But tonight was different.

Because tonight, for the first time, she wasn’t walking in alone.

Chaewoon was right behind her, his presence steady, solid. He didn’t need to say anything, didn’t need to do anything. He was just there. A quiet force standing at her back, and somehow, for some reason, it made a difference.

She hated to admit it, but she felt safer.

Even as she kept her expression unreadable, even as she took her seat at the long, polished table with practiced grace, there was a small part of her that didn’t feel quite as exposed as she usually did.

Across from her, her mother barely spared her a glance, while her father remained occupied with his meal.

It was all as expected. Cold, distant, routine.

Yet, beneath the surface, there was something different.

Because for the first time in a long time, Haein wasn’t completely alone in this room.

During dinner, her mother suddenly called her name, pulling Haein out of her thoughts. Across the room, Chaewoon noticed the slight stiffening of her shoulders, the way her posture tensed at the mere mention of her name.

“Haein, you’ll receive a certification of contents tomorrow,” her mother said, her tone cold but casual, as if discussing something as trivial as the weather. “I’m filing a suit against you for building your department store over my land in Gwanggyo.”

Haein inhaled slowly, forcing herself to remain calm. “We discussed this before construction even started. It wasn’t much land, and you gave me your permission.”

“I did,” her mother admitted. “But Attorney Shim advised against it. Rumors could spread about how I gave you special treatment, and I might have to pay a gift tax.”

Haein stared at her, expression unreadable. “So now you’re filing a lawsuit? Now that the building is already standing?”

“You haven’t opened it yet.”

“I see.” Haein’s fingers curled slightly against the fabric of her dress. “Then should I just demolish it?”

“That’s up to you and your attorney.” Her mother’s voice remained impassive. “Look over the documents and come up with an appropriate measure—”

She was cut off by the sudden scrape of a chair against the floor.

Haein had stood up. “Come up with an appropriate measure?” she scoffed.

“What do you mean?” Her voice was steady, but it was sharper than usual. “Should I be afraid and back off?” Her hand clenched into a fist. “You’re threatening me with that lawsuit.”

Her mother’s eyes narrowed. “Did you just cut me off?” The tension in the room spiked, a suffocating weight pressing against Haein’s chest.

And then, just as the air grew thick with unspoken words, and before her mother could utter another word, a ringtone echoed.

All eyes turned toward the source.

Chaewoon, who had been watching quietly from the sidelines, stepped forward. His voice was calm, respectful. “I apologize for the interruption, but Miss Haein—the Director of Hercyna is calling.”

Haein turned to him, her heart still racing from the confrontation. She let out a quiet breath, grasping onto the escape he had given her. “I’ll discuss everything with my attorney,” she said, her voice regaining its composure. “May I be excused? I have an important call waiting.”

She didn’t wait for an answer. Without another glance at the table, she turned on her heel and took the phone from Chaewoon’s hand.

As expected, the screen was blank. No call. No Director of Hercyna.

He had faked it.

She didn’t know why he had stepped in, why he had given her an out when no one else would.

But for now, she was grateful. Because the room had felt suffocating, and she needed to breathe.

As Haein walked out of the dining hall, phone pressed to her ear as if she were truly answering a call, her steps were quick, purposeful. But Chaewoon, who followed closely behind, didn’t miss the way her grip on the phone tightened or the way her shoulders slightly trembled.

The hallways were silent except for the echo of their footsteps. It wasn’t until they turned a corner, out of sight from everyone’s eyes, that Haein finally exhaled.

She lowered the phone, staring at the blank screen before glancing up at him.

She swallowed, struggling against the lump in her throat. She wanted to say something—anything. At the very least, a thank you. But the words caught in her chest, tangled with the emotions she refused to let spill over.

Chaewoon, who had already read the unspoken words in her eyes, simply gave her a small nod. No pressure, no expectation. Just understanding.

Haein turned away, hating that he keeps seeing her like this. “I’m going to rest early. You’re dismissed. See you tomorrow.”

Chaewoon gave a slight bow, stepping back. But just before she disappeared down the hall, his voice, quiet yet certain, reached her.

“Goodnight.”

She paused, her fingers curling slightly at her sides. For a brief second, she hesitated—then, barely above a whisper, she responded.

“…Goodnight.”

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Maybe they had grown closer over the past few weeks, but ever since the night Chaewoon first muttered Goodnight to her—and she unexpectedly returned it—it had become a habit.

A Good morning when they met at the start of the day.

A Goodnight before it ended.

Neither of them had noticed how natural it had become, how effortlessly the words passed between them now. Compared to before, when they barely exchanged words to each other.

The people around them noticed it, too. How the Ice Queen’s once-distant bodyguard—who used to follow at a respectful distance because she despised him hovering—was now walking beside her. Not trailing behind, but right next to her, as if they were a pair.

But more than that, it was Chaewoon himself who drew attention. A tall man with a sharp jawline, a straight nose, and piercing eyes. The kind of presence that made people look twice. And then there was his voice—calm, authoritative, carrying an air of quiet command. But what made the women in the office truly linger was something else entirely.

It was the way he treated her.

They saw it—the subtle but undeniable gentleness in how he spoke to their boss, how he looked at her, how his presence around her never felt intrusive, only steady.

Haein had noticed, too.

The way her female employees lit up when Chaewoon entered the room, the way their smiles grew a little wider, their voices a little softer. It had been happening for a while, but the first time she really took note of it, she found herself raising an eyebrow.

“You’re quite popular, Mr. Woo,” she remarked, her tone sharper than she intended.

Chaewoon looked at her, genuinely confused—something she rarely saw on his face.

Haein, already turning back to her paperwork, muttered under her breath, “It’s kind of annoying.”

Chaewoon blinked. Once. Twice.

Trying to figure out what, exactly, had annoyed her this time.

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Figuring out Hong Haein’s moods was becoming second nature to Chaewoon.

But not when she muttered that she was annoyed earlier at the office.

The thought lingered in his mind, nagging at him even as he accompanied her to a meeting in the city. He noticed it then—how she was colder than usual. Her gaze was sharper, her tone clipped. Of course she had always been like this, but something about the way she’s acting now did not feel intimidating at all. If anything, it was almost—dare he say—amusing.

Not that he’d ever admit it infront of her. He valued his life, after all.

Before they reached the car, Chaewoon subtly stepped in front of her, blocking her path just enough to make her stop. His voice was calm, but there was a trace of curiosity in his tone.

“Did I do something wrong? Are you upset with me?”

It was an innocent question.

But Haein’s face heated almost instantly.

She scoffed, flustered. “What are you asking? You sound like—”

She stopped herself, biting down the rest of her sentence before it could escape.

Chaewoon blinked. Like what, exactly?

“I’m not upset with you, if that’s what you’re curious about.”

And with that, she walked past him, sliding into the car without another word.

Haein wanted to hide her face before Chaewoon could get into the car.

She wasn’t even sure why she’s feeling this way. If she was upset or why was she even upset in the first place. All she knew was that she hoped he wouldn’t ask again.

Then, her phone rang, snapping her out of her thoughts.

As soon as Chaewoon got in the driver’s seat, he immediately noticed how Haein’s expression darkened. From the faint voice on the other end, he could tell it was her secretary.

“Miss Haein, your mother is here, and she’s furious. I told her you’re in a meeting, but she’s demanding you return as soon as possible.”

Haein sighed, already exhausted. “Tell her I’m on my way.”

The moment the call ended, another one came in—this time, from her attorney.

“Miss Haein, the investors are concerned. They found out Mrs. Hong filed a suit against the land, and they’re worried about the project’s stability. They want assurance that the mall will still open as planned.”

Haein pressed a hand to her temple, exhaling slowly. “Arrange a meeting with the investors on Wednesday. I’ll explain everything to them. And I’ll speak with my mother again about the lawsuit.”

Chaewoon glanced at her through the rearview mirror. She had closed her eyes, fingers pinching the bridge of her nose as frustration weighed on her shoulders.

Without a word, he rolled down the window slightly, letting the night air in.

Haein opened her eyes at the unexpected breeze. She blinked as it brushed against her skin. Closing her eyes again, she inhaled deeply, the tension in her shoulders easing just a little.

Outside, the trees blurred past.

“Do you want me to pull over?” Chaewoon asked.

“That’d be nice.”

He eased the car to a stop, and Haein stepped out, making her way toward the frozen river. November’s air was cold and biting, but she welcomed it, standing still as she took in another deep breath.

Chaewoon watched her for a moment, then quietly retrieved a blanket from the car. His footsteps were silent as he approached her.

Haein didn’t turn, but she felt the slight shift in the air when he got closer. And then, warmth.

The blanket settled over her shoulders with gentleness. The weight of it was light, but the gesture itself felt heavier. For a brief second, she almost turned to look at him, almost said something. But she didn’t trust her voice, didn’t trust the way her chest felt strangely tight.

“It’s cold,” Chaewoon said, his voice steady but quieter than usual. “We shouldn’t stay too long.”

“I know. And my mother’s waiting.”

“Let me know when you’re ready to go.”

They stood there in silence, the only sounds coming from the rustling trees and the distant sound of the busy city.

And for a moment, Haein could let herself relax.

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

When they returned to the office, Haein was immediately greeted by her mother’s stern gaze. “What did you tell your grandfather?” She said in an accusing tone.

Haein dropped her bag on the couch and sighed, “What do you mean?” Haein had expected maybe her grandfather found out about the ridiculous lawsuit, she had hoped he did. But it was something different.

“You grandfather was furious with Soocheol. Were you the one who told him about his debt with one of the investors?” Her mother was asking, but it did not feel like a question, more like an accusation.

Haein exhaled slowly. “He must’ve found out on his own. I haven’t spoken to him in weeks.” The last time she had was when he assigned Woo Chaewoon as her bodyguard.

Her mother scoffed. “Don’t lie to me. I know you were behind this.”

“I don’t have time for that,” Haein replied, her voice level. “I couldn’t care less what happens to Soocheol.”

“That’s right. You don’t care. You never have.” Her mother’s voice was sharp now, cutting. “As his older sister, you’ve never once treated him like family. You’ve been selfish for as long as I can remember. Do you even know? Soocheol had a panic attack today.”

Haein’s fingers curled into her palm. But she didn’t let her face waver. “If you’re done with your accusations, you can leave. As you can see, I’m busy.”

Her mother let out a bitter scoff. “Unbelievable. I won’t let you get away with this.”

With one last glare, she turned and stormed out.

The moment the door clicked shut behind her mother, Haein gripped the edge of the table beside her, her fingers digging into the polished wood as if it were the only thing keeping her upright.

She exhaled slowly, but the tightness in her chest didn’t ease.

With a shake of her head, she reached for the coffee pot and poured herself a cup, the dark hot liquid swirling as it settled. She held the paper cup between her fingers tightly.

Too tightly.

Chaewoon’s sharp eyes flicked downward, noticing the way her fingers were gripping the paper cup—too firm, too tense. The lid wobbled slightly, the liquid inside dangerously close to spilling.

Without hesitation, he reached out, his touch light but firm as he carefully took the cup from her hands.

She didn’t even notice how the flimsy material was starting to give in. If she held on any longer, the coffee would spill, burning her hand.

Then, warmth.

A firm but careful pressure covered her fingers.

Haein snapped back to reality, her breath hitching.

Chaewoon.

She hadn’t even realized he was standing so close.

Her gaze lifted in startled silence, and suddenly, she was aware of everything—the warmth of his hand over hers, the slight roughness of his fingertips against her skin, the steadiness in his grip that contrasted with her own trembling one.

Her eyes flickered up to meet his.

She looked at him, at the way he held the cup so steadily—like it was the most natural thing in the world to quietly take care of things she didn’t even realize needed taking care of.

Chaewoon was watching her, his expression unreadable, but his touch was steady, grounding.

For a moment, neither of them moved.

Neither of them spoke.

The only sound in the room was the distant hum of the city outside, the ticking of the clock on her desk, and the faint, steady rhythm of her own heartbeat—louder than it should be.

Then, with deliberate slowness, Chaewoon took the cup from her hands. His fingers lingered for just a second longer than necessary before he pulled away.

Haein let out a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding.

For a moment, neither of them spoke.

Haein just looked at him, her vision blurring slightly as tears threatened to spill. But she refused to let them fall. She had held herself together for so long—she wouldn’t break now.

Chaewoon didn’t say anything either. He only held her gaze, steady and unwavering. There was something in his expression, something soft and reassuring, as if he was silently telling her, It’s okay. You don’t have to hold it all in. Not with me.

The coffee cup was already placed on the table, forgotten, but his other hand still hovered over hers. Close enough to feel, close enough that if she moved even slightly, they’d touch again. But she didn’t pull away.

She didn’t want to.

The warmth of his skin grounded her in a way she couldn’t explain. The steady presence of him beside her, the quiet patience in his eyes, it all made her feel… safe.

“Are you okay?” Chaewoon finally asked, his voice careful, low.

Haein swallowed. She nodded, but it wasn’t entirely convincing.

Still, she managed to whisper, “Yes, I am.”

Then, after a small pause—so quiet it was almost lost in the space between them—she added, “…Thank you.”

Her voice barely made a sound, but Chaewoon heard it.

And for some reason, that was enough.

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Haein threw herself into work after that, keeping her hands busy, her mind even busier.

Chaewoon stayed. He didn’t press, didn’t speak—just waited.

He could feel it, the weight of her mother’s words still lingering in the air. The way they cut into her. Haein never let it show, never let anyone see the cracks, but Chaewoon could.

Haein may seem cold, but inside, she was hurting the most.

And maybe work was her escape. A way to outrun the thoughts she didn’t want to face.

Chaewoon glanced at the clock. 9:45 PM. She should have left hours ago.

Frowning, he walked over to her office door and knocked softly. “Miss Haein?”

No answer.

He knocked again. Still nothing.

A quiet sigh left his lips before he carefully pushed the door open.

And there she was.

Slumped over her desk, her head resting on her folded arms. The soft glow of the desk lamp cast long shadows across the room, illuminating the untouched cup of coffee beside her—now cold.

She had pushed herself too hard again.

Chaewoon sighed, his gaze lingering on her for a moment.

The papers scattered across the desk told him she had probably fallen asleep mid-review, too stubborn to call it a night.

Without a word, he slipped his arms under her, lifting her carefully. She stirred slightly but didn’t wake, only sighing against his shoulder as he adjusted his hold.

She was lighter than he expected. Or maybe she just carried too much weight during the day for anyone to notice how exhausted she really was.

The drive back to the estate was silent.

Haein barely moved in the passenger seat, her breathing slow and steady. Every now and then, she shifted slightly, her body naturally leaning toward the warmth beside her.

Chaewoon kept his eyes on the road. Kept his thoughts steady. This was nothing. Just doing his job.

When they arrived, he carried her inside, moving with the same careful precision. He placed her gently onto her bed, adjusting the covers over her.

Just as he was about to straighten up, he felt it—

A small tug at his jacket.

He looked down.

Haein, still half-asleep, her fingers curled weakly into the fabric of his sleeve.

“…Stay.” Her voice was barely above a whisper, her words slurred with drowsiness.

Chaewoon froze.

She didn’t know what she was saying. Didn’t realize what she was doing. But still, she was holding onto him—like some part of her, even in sleep, didn’t want to be left alone.

For the first time in a long time, he hesitated.

Then, slowly, he lowered himself onto the edge of the bed. He didn’t move her hand away.

Minutes passed. Her breathing evened out again, her fingers loosening their grip.

Only when he was sure she was deeply asleep did he finally rise.

He lingered for a second, gaze drifting over her face. She looked different like this—without the sharpness, without the armor. Just… at peace.

On his way out, he found himself replaying the moment in his head.

The sound of her voice. The way she reached for him without thinking.

And the fact that, for some reason, he hadn’t wanted to let go.

< Chapter 4 Chapter 6 >

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Thank you for waiting!! It has been a very busy week for me. This chapter was already in my drafts when I uploaded chapter 4, but I couldn't find the time to polish it.

Life has been so hectic lately and I will try to make time to upload regularly.

Will also try to maybe make it less wordy? I tried reading each chapter over and over again and I noticed maybe it can come off as boring because it's too much description?? ;-; idk pls let me know your thoughts I'm open to suggestions and improvements ><

By the way, next chapter is my favorite!! >< hehe

taglist: @lvnat1c @strangerinthesecretforest <3

UNSPOKEN (말하지 않은)

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

Chapter 4: In His Care

Chaewoon’s protective instincts toward Haein become more apparent as he observes her every move with quiet care. His subtle gestures and watchful presence reveal a side of him that Haein begins to notice—one that goes beyond his role as a bodyguard.

It had been a week since Chaewoon became Haein’s bodyguard, and in that time, he’d already learned to read her like an open book. Watching her through the glass walls of her office, he could tell just by the way she furrowed her brows and gripped the paper tighter—something was bothering her.

Five, four, three, two, one... he counted in his head.

As expected, Haein’s sharp voice rang out, “What happened to decorating the personal shopper room like a gallery? The artist’s reputation and colors don’t suit the interior design.”

Chaewoon couldn’t help but smile. Yelling and glaring like that, she looks so mean.

But then, just as quickly, her expression shifted, a satisfied smile curling on her lips as she flipped to the next page. “Yes, this is what I was talking about.”

She looks excited, Chaewoon thought, still watching her every move.

The annoyed Haein from moments ago was gone, replaced by a woman pleased with what she saw. And just as Haein’s lips slightly curled up, Chaewoon’s own little smile started to falter. For a moment, time slowed down, and for some reason, he could not look away at her smiling face.

He cleared his throat, forcing himself to look away and stare blankly at the opposite wall, as if that would shake the strange, unsettling feeling that had taken hold of him.

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HAEIN'S POV

Hong Haein wasn’t used to people caring about her—not in the way Woo Chaewoon did.

Not that she would ever admit it.

But for a while now, she had stopped trying to shake him off. That didn’t mean she liked his presence, but she had accepted, begrudgingly, that he was annoyingly efficient at his job.

She just hadn’t expected him to be so… considerate.

1. The Elevator Incident

It started in the company lobby. Haein was walking ahead, clicking through emails on her phone, when the elevator doors opened. She stepped in without thinking.

Then, in a single swift motion, Chaewoon reached out, placed a firm hand on the small of her back, and pulled her back just as a man rushed out, nearly knocking into her.

She barely had time to react before she found herself standing inches from him, her back against his chest.

“Watch your step,” he murmured, his hand falling away the second the man passed.

Haein straightened, clearing her throat. “I had it under control.”

Chaewoon didn’t argue, simply stepping inside after her. “Of course, ma’am.”

She turned to glare at him, only to find the faintest hint of amusement in his eyes.

Infuriating.

2. The Heels Problem

Later that day, she had back-to-back meetings, which meant strutting around the office in heels that looked good but felt like a medieval torture device.

By the time she stepped outside, her feet were killing her.

As they reached the car, Chaewoon—without a word—opened the door for her, then subtly adjusted the car mat so she could rest her feet more comfortably.

It was such a small gesture, so smooth, that she almost missed it.

She slid into the seat, watching as he walked around to the front. Inside the car was also a pair of soft comfy slippers that was not originally there.

Her jaw tightened. He wasn’t supposed to be like this. He was supposed to be just another disposable bodyguard, a shadow she could ignore.

Then why was he making it so difficult?

3. The Rain

By the time they arrived at a charity gala that evening, it had started raining. Hard.

As usual, Chaewoon was the first to step out of the car. He retrieved an umbrella, opened her door, and held it above her.

Haein, exhausted and mildly annoyed at the world, reached for the umbrella.

“I can hold it myself.”

Chaewoon, as always, was unmoved. “That’s my job.”

She stepped out, expecting him to keep a respectable distance. Instead, he adjusted the umbrella so that she was completely covered—even if it meant part of his shoulder got drenched.

She noticed. And she hated that she noticed.

By the time they entered the building, she found herself stealing glances at his wet sleeve.

Chaewoon brought her a towel, his expression as calm as ever. She expected him to use it to dry himself off, but instead, he held it out to her.

She raised an eyebrow, about to refuse, when he paused for a brief moment. Then, with surprising grace, he knelt down in front of her, positioning the towel to wipe her shoes.

Oh, my shoes are wet.

The realization hit her like a bolt of lightning. Haein instinctively stepped back just as his hand was about to touch the leather.

“You don’t need to do that. You’re not my servant,” she said, her tone sharper than she intended. She cleared her throat, trying to regain some composure. “Wipe yourself instead. You’re drenched.”

She huffed, a bit embarrassed by the sudden awkwardness, and turned on her heel, walking briskly into the gala without looking back.

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CHAEWOON'S POV

The Elevator

Woo Chaewoon was always quick on his feet. So, when Haein, her attention absorbed by her phone, failed to notice the man about to collide with her as the elevator doors opened, he reacted instinctively.

Chaewoon's reflexes kicked in without thinking. His hand moved swiftly to the small of her back, steadying her just as a man rushed out, too close for comfort.

For a brief moment, he felt her back tense against his chest as he pulled her away. The contact surprisingly electric, but he didn’t let it show. He barely heard her breath catch in her throat, but he noticed.

"Watch your step," he murmured quietly, making sure the man passed safely before letting his hand fall away from her back.

She straightened up quickly, her back stiff. He could feel the subtle shift in her posture as she composed herself.

“I had it under control,” she said, voice a little sharp, but he didn’t respond to the challenge in her tone.

Instead, he stepped into the elevator after her, keeping his face unreadable. “Of course, ma’am.”

She turned to glare at him, her eyes narrowing in irritation. But for just a moment, he caught the faintest flicker of something else there—amusement, maybe. It was gone too quickly for him to dwell on, but it made him smile to himself, just the slightest curve of his lips.

Infuriating. But somehow, she made it worth it.

2. The Heels

Chaewoon had learned to notice the small signs that Haein never acknowledged. He could see it in the way she walked—stiff, her heels clicking sharply against the floor as if she were fighting the discomfort that no one else seemed to notice. Her back straightened, her pace measured, but there was always that subtle shift in her posture after each long meeting. The heels, he knew, were not made for comfort. He also knew she would never be the type to wear flats outside.

So, when they reached the car after a long day, Chaewoon opened the door for her without a word, then quickly adjusted the car mat under her feet. It wasn’t much, just enough to give her a bit of relief, and he did it so smoothly that she almost didn’t catch it.

But she did.

As she slid into the car, he caught the slight wince in her face, then the subtle relief as she settled into the seat. Chaewoon walked around to the front, but when he opened the door to slide in, he saw her eyes lingering on the pair of slippers he had neatly placed inside for her.

Her gaze was confused, almost questioning.

It was an ordinary thing, a small act of care, but it was enough for him to see the slight stiffening in her jaw. He couldn’t help but wonder why she was so resistant to the simplest gestures. After all, he was only doing his job. But still, the thought lingered. She wasn’t supposed to be this difficult to ignore.

Yet, here she was, making it harder than it should be.

3. The Rain

Chaewoon didn’t expect her to notice. The rain had soaked through part of his sleeve, but it wasn’t the first time, and it wouldn’t be the last. He held the umbrella steady over her, making sure not a single drop touched her, while the cold slowly seeped into his own shoulder. It wasn’t anything out of the ordinary. It was his job.

But then, she looked.

It was quick, just a glance at his wet sleeve, but he caught it. The slight pause in her step, the way her gaze lingered a fraction too long before she looked away. She noticed. He wasn’t sure why that detail mattered, but for some reason, it did.

By the time they reached the entrance, she was back to her usual self—sharp, composed, untouchable. But Chaewoon had seen the flicker of something else. He returned with a towel, expecting her to take it without a second thought. Instead, she hesitated.

So he did what came naturally—knelt down in front of her.

Her shoes were wet. He had noticed, of course, just as he noticed the slight shift in her stance, the way she tensed the second she realized what he was about to do. Then, before he could even move, she stepped back.

“You don’t need to do that. You’re not my servant.” Her voice was clipped, but it wasn’t anger. It was something else—something that made her avert her gaze a second too late.

Chaewoon didn’t argue. He simply stood, towel still in hand, watching as she walked away quicker than usual, like she was trying to escape something.

As she walked further ahead, Chaewoon’s eyes followed her. His gaze lingered just a moment longer, catching the flush of her ears—redder than usual.

He wondered if it was the cold, or if it was something else entirely.

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It was another busy day for Hong Haein, this time at Queen’s Department Store. She was making her way through the floors when a commotion near the cosmetics section caught her attention. A small crowd had gathered, murmuring among themselves as an angry man raised his voice at one of the employees.

At first, Haein didn’t interfere, simply observing from a distance.

The customer was demanding a refund for a product that was nearly used up. The employee, a young woman, remained professional, explaining that refunds weren’t possible once the product was almost empty. But the man wasn’t listening. Instead, he insisted—loudly—that his girlfriend’s skin had worsened because of it. A blatant lie. It was a common trick—buy, use, complain, and demand a refund.

But then, the situation escalated.

Frustrated by the refusal, the man swiped an arm across the counter, knocking over bottles and compacts. The sharp sound of breaking glass made the employee flinch.

“Do you think I’m some kind of joke?” His voice rose, and so did his hand.

Chaewoon, standing silently nearby, was already prepared to intervene. But before he could move, Haein was already stepping in.

She caught the man’s wrist mid-air, stopping his hand before it could strike the employee.

“And who the hell are you?!” he snapped, yanking his arm back. His face twisted in outrage, as if personally offended that a woman had dared to stop him.

Haein’s expression remained calm, her voice unwavering. “This is not a place for such behavior.”

The man scoffed. “Then bring me your CEO. I don’t have time for people like you.”

“You’re looking for me?”

His face faltered for a second before he recovered. “So you’re the CEO?” He sneered, folding his arms. “Figures. No wonder your employees are incompetent. Why did you not train your employee properly then!?”

“You’re right,” she said coolly. “Maybe I haven’t trained them properly.” She turned to the employee, glancing at the nametag. “Ms. Kim Minji?”

The young woman tensed, clearly expecting a reprimand.

Haein sighed and crossed her arms. “Your job is to deal with customers only. As for criminals, report them to the police immediately.”

The man’s face reddened. “Wow. A criminal? So now you’re insulting customers? The CEO of this mall looks down on people. We will sue you.”

Haein simply smiled. Behind her, Chaewoon observed the scene with quiet amusement.

“Please do,” she said lightly. “I’ll be suing as well.”

The man sputtered. “What did you just say?!”

His temper snapped. His hand moved again, this time toward Haein.

But before he could get close, a shadow loomed over him.

Chaewoon was already there.

His tall frame blocked the man completely, cutting off his path like an immovable wall. His movements were smooth, effortless, but his presence alone was enough to make the air feel heavier. In one swift motion, his hand wrapped around the man’s wrist—not rough, not violent, but firm. A controlled grip, precise and unyielding.

The shift in atmosphere was instant.

The man’s anger wavered, his bravado shrinking under the weight of Chaewoon’s presence. Up close, he could see the way Chaewoon carried himself—not just as an employee, not just as security, but as someone who was dangerous in all the ways that mattered. There was no unnecessary aggression in his stance, no tension in his shoulders, no wild anger in his eyes. Just cold, calculated control. The kind that made people second-guess their next move.

For the first time since the commotion started, the man hesitated.

Chaewoon’s grip didn’t tighten, but the unspoken message was clear: Don’t try it.

The man swallowed. His wrist, though not in pain, felt like it was caught in something unshakable. He looked around, as if realizing how quiet the crowd had gone, how the eyes that once watched in amusement were now filled with anticipation—waiting to see if he would be foolish enough to push further.

He wasn’t.

“You can be charged with obstruction of business, property damage, and attempted assault,” Chaewoon said evenly. His voice wasn’t loud, but it didn’t need to be. It carried the kind of weight that made people listen.

Haein tilted her head, unfazed. “And I’ll add another lawsuit for the sales loss you caused.” She turned to the crowd. “Did you all get that on camera?”

A chorus of affirmations rose from the spectators, many holding up their phones, their screens still recording. A few even cheered.

The man looked around, suddenly realizing how outnumbered he was.

“Take them to the police,” Haein ordered as security finally arrived, stepping forward to apprehend him.

As the man was dragged away, Haein turned back to Chaewoon, a satisfied smile on her face. He met her gaze, his own expression unreadable.

She gave him a small nod. “Let’s go.”

Without another word, Chaewoon followed.

On their way back to the company, Haein found herself replaying the moment in her head.

It had happened so fast. One second, she was handling the situation as she always did—calm, composed, in control. The next, a hand had been raised in her direction, and before she could even react, a shadow had stepped in front of her.

Chaewoon.

Haein had barely registered the movement before he was there, his tall frame blocking her completely. The space that had once felt open was suddenly filled—broad shoulders, solid stance, the subtle shift of muscle beneath his suit.

She hadn’t been expecting it.

She had seen him be cautious before, seen the way he silently observed her surroundings. But this was different.

His hand had wrapped around the man’s wrist—not roughly, not aggressively, but with a kind of controlled force that left no room for argument.

She hadn’t seen his face at first, only the sharp line of his jaw from the side, the way his fingers flexed slightly as if calculating the exact amount of strength needed to hold back without breaking.

Then she had seen the change in the man’s expression. The way his anger faltered, the realization creeping in. He had thought he could intimidate her, but now he was faced with someone he couldn’t push, someone who didn’t even need to raise his voice to make his presence known.

“You can be charged with obstruction of business, property damage, and attempted assault,” Chaewoon had said, his voice low, even. It wasn’t loud, but it carried the kind of weight that made people listen.

Chaewoon didn’t move, his stance unwavering, his hand still gripping the man’s wrist as he watched him with cool detachment. And for the first time, Haein realized something.

For all the quiet patience she had seen in Woo Chaewoon, there was another side to him. A side that wouldn’t hesitate to shield her the moment someone dared to lay a hand on her.

And for reasons she couldn’t quite place, she found herself staring at him just a moment longer than necessary.

Gentle, quiet, patient Woo Chaewoon. You had this side to you, huh?

The thought followed her into the car. As they drove in silence, she caught a glimpse of him through the rearview mirror. He looked the same as always—calm, focused, completely unbothered.

She clicked her tongue and turned to the window, blinking more times than necessary.

As if that would make her stop thinking about it.

From the front seat, Chaewoon felt Haein’s gaze linger on him. He kept his eyes on the road, but he noticed everything—the slight shift in her seat, the way she suddenly blinked faster before turning to the window.

For a brief moment, he felt… aware of himself. Just a little.

But why?

Why did her gaze make him falter, even for a second?

He didn’t know.

< Chapter 3 Chapter 5 >

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incorporated some QOT scenes in the story >< will also incorporate BF scenes next chapters!

I feel like maybe the story's pacing is a little slow I noticed that it has fewer readers each chapter🥲 maybe the slow-burn is burning too slow?🥲

but it's fine! I was momentarily discouraged to continue it but honestly, I think I'm also writing this story mostly for myself hihi it's been a loonnggg while since I started writing something again, like actually writing and not just daydreaming about it throughout the day

thank you again who's still tuning in! <3

taglist: @lvnat1c <3

UNSPOKEN (말하지 않은)

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

Chapter 3: Cracks in the Ice

As cracks begin to form in Haein’s carefully guarded exterior, Chaewoon remains a silent observer—watching, understanding, but never prying. Yet, the more she tries to ignore him, the more she finds herself unable to look away.

The ride back home was quiet, save for the faint hum of the engine and the occasional sound of Haein scrolling through her phone. She wasn’t really reading—just skimming through emails and messages, too drained to focus. The exhaustion of the day was settling in, yet a persistent chill crept through her despite the warmth of her coat.

She barely noticed when her fingers trembled slightly, or when she shifted uncomfortably in her seat. But Chaewoon did. Without a word, he adjusted the temperature in the car, subtly raising the heat. A few moments later, Haein realized her shivering had stopped.

Her brows furrowed. She hadn’t even realized she was cold. But he had.

Bodyguards were supposed to follow orders, react when necessary—not anticipate things she didn’t even voice out. She’d had plenty before, and not one of them had done more than the bare minimum. Chaewoon, however, seemed different.

Not that it meant anything. She still didn’t like him.

But annoyingly enough… she didn’t mind him either.

“How long have you been working for my grandfather, Mr. Woo?” Haein asked, her tone casual, eyes still fixed on her phone as she scrolled through unread messages.

Chaewoon, focused on the road, answered without hesitation. “Four months.”

“Such a short time,” she mused, tapping absentmindedly on her screen. “I guess you already gained his trust.”

Chaewoon blinked. Had he? He wasn’t sure. The chairman was a man of few words, his orders absolute yet often unexplained. One day, he was handling corporate security affairs; the next, he was reassigned to shadow his granddaughter—without warning, without justification.

Maybe it was a test. Maybe it was something else entirely.

Either way, Woo Chaewoon didn’t ask questions.

Chaewoon kept his eyes on the road, but he could feel Haein watching him now, her phone momentarily forgotten in her lap. “What did he say when he assigned you to me?” she asked, tilting her head slightly.

Chaewoon didn’t answer immediately. The chairman’s words echoed in his mind, but he settled on the simplest version. “To watch over you.”

Haein narrowed her eyes slightly. “That’s all?”

“Yes.” His response was clipped, unwavering.

She studied him for a moment, as if searching for cracks in his carefully maintained exterior.

“My job,” he continued, voice steady, “is to simply accompany you everywhere you go. Take orders from you, so you can use me as you please, Ms. Hong.”

Something about the way he said it made her pause. It wasn’t sarcastic, nor did it carry any hint of bitterness. It was just… factual. A declaration of duty.

Haein let out a quiet scoff, leaning back against her seat.

When they arrived at the mansion, Haein expected him to stop at the main entrance and let her go on her way. But, of course, he wouldn’t just leave her side that easily.

She reached for the door handle, but before she could open it, Chaewoon was already there, pulling it open for her. Haein stepped out, only to catch sight of his hand hovering above her head again—just like earlier, ready to shield her in case she miscalculated and hit the doorframe.

She pressed her lips together, torn between rolling her eyes and making a sarcastic remark about how she was perfectly capable of getting out of a car on her own. But exhaustion weighed heavy on her, and frankly, she didn’t have the energy for it.

Instead, she exhaled through her nose and turned toward the house. The warm glow from the entrance lights stretched across the driveway, casting long shadows as she made her way inside.

Of course, she wasn’t alone. The soft, steady footsteps behind her confirmed what she already knew—Chaewoon was following her.

I guess he’s going to follow me all the way to my room, she thought, resisting the urge to sigh.

Maybe she should slam the door in his face just to see if he’d stop.

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Chaewoon noticed the way her lips pressed together when he opened the car door. She wanted to say something—he could tell—but chose not to. Instead, she stepped out without a word, her movements slower than usual, her usual sharp posture softened by exhaustion. Even her commanding presence had dimmed, replaced by something quieter, almost weary.

He followed her in silence, his gaze subtly tracking the way she moved. Her steps were unhurried, almost aimless, yet she didn’t head for the main entrance. Instead, she veered toward the garden, taking the longer route despite her obvious fatigue.

Did she always take this way, even when she was this drained? Or was she heading somewhere else?

Chaewoon half-expected her to turn around and demand why he was still following her, maybe throw in a sharp remark about personal space. But she didn’t.

Something about the slow drag of her steps, the slight slump in her shoulders—it wasn’t just exhaustion. There was something else weighing her down. And for once, she didn’t seem to mind his presence.

Haein stopped abruptly, her gaze locked onto something in the garden. Chaewoon followed her line of sight and saw them—her parents, standing amidst the dimly lit hedges, deep in conversation.

His eyes flickered back to Haein, watching as her expression darkened. Whatever she was hearing, it wasn’t something she wanted to.

“Honey, don’t be so harsh on Haein,” her father’s voice carried softly through the night air. “How long will you let the past haunt you? You should let go and move on.”

There was a sharp pause before her mother responded, her tone colder, edged with something unresolved. “That’s what your father said back then.” A bitter chuckle. “Your father didn’t want any issues, so you obliged. I still don’t understand why Suwan had to die.”

At that name, Haein visibly tensed. The fatigue that had weighed her down moments ago disappeared, replaced by a rigid stillness. Her fingers twitched before curling into fists at her sides, and her eyes, already heavy with exhaustion, now reflected something far deeper.

“It was just an accident,” her father said, his voice softer now. “No one is to blame.”

“You’re right,” her mother murmured. “It’s no one’s fault. But Suwan is gone. And I’m still in pain every single day.”

Chaewoon barely had time to process the shift in Haein before she turned on her heel and walked away, her steps quick, almost urgent. He caught a glimpse of her face—her lips pressed tightly together, eyes misted but defiant. She didn’t want to hear more.

Without a word, he followed.

Suwan. Hong Suwan.

Chaewoon recognized the name instantly. It was in one of the files he had read about the Hong family—the Chairman’s eldest grandson, Haein’s older brother. He had died in an accident, a tragedy that cast a long shadow over the family.

The reports were clinical, filled with dates and facts, but standing here, seeing the way Haein’s entire body stiffened at the mention of his name, he realized how little those words truly conveyed.

He recalled one particular detail: Haein had been in the accident too. The only one who survived.

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

When they reached her door, Haein didn’t spare him a glance. She stepped inside without hesitation, the door shutting behind her. Maybe he shouldn’t have followed her all the way here. Maybe he wasn’t supposed to see something so unguarded.

But as he stood there in the empty hallway, Chaewoon couldn’t shake the memories of the countless family dinners he had witnessed from a quiet corner of the Hong estate. The family gathered every night, and as the Chairman’s bodyguard, he had been present more than once.

The Chairman rarely attended, but when he did, Chaewoon would stand by his side, silently observing. And each time, his gaze would inevitably land on one family member who always seemed more like a heavy shadow than a presence—Hong Haein.

She barely spoke. She would eat in silence, her expression unreadable, and when she left the table, no one even seemed to notice. It was as if she existed on the fringes of her own family, a stranger in a house that was supposed to be her home.

She was known as the Ice Queen of the great Hong family—sharp-tongued, short-tempered, cold, and untouchable. Whenever she entered a room, it was like a sudden drop in temperature, her presence commanding yet unapproachable, as if daring anyone to stand in her way.

She seemed larger than life, a force to be reckoned with. And yet, inside her own home, she looked so small. Almost as if she might disappear at any moment, swallowed by the very walls that should have made her feel safe.

Did the Chairman notice this about his own granddaughter too?

A part of him hoped he did. Hoped that, perhaps, this was the reason he was assigned to her—not just to protect her, but because someone, somewhere, still cared enough to try.

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The next morning, as Haein stepped out of her room, she found Chaewoon already waiting outside.

Dressed in a navy-blue suit, her hair flawlessly styled, and her heels clicking against the marble floor, she looked every bit the woman the world knew her to be—cold, sharp, and untouchable. Watching her now, Chaewoon couldn’t help but wonder if this was the same Haein he had seen last night—the one with heavy shoulders and misty eyes.

Just as Haein was about to step out the front door, her mother’s voice cut through the vast hall.

“You missed dinner last night.”

From the words alone, it should have sounded like a mother concerned about her daughter skipping a meal. But it wasn’t. The tone was too sharp, too pointed—more accusation than worry.

Haein halted for a brief moment before turning to face her. “I got a bit busy last night. I apologize.” Her voice was even, controlled.

“The least you could do is inform us,” her mother replied, eyes cold with disapproval. “You’re really starting to lose respect just because your grandfather favors you.” Her gaze flickered toward Chaewoon. “Giving you your own bodyguard and everything… don’t start feeling too special.”

Haein sighed.

“Your younger brother should be the one getting special treatment. Is your grandfather not aware of how vulnerable he is?” her mother said, voice laced with disapproval.

“If you want a bodyguard, then take him,” Haein replied flatly. “You’re right—your son needs him more than I do.”

“Don’t give me that attitude, Haein.”

She glanced at her wristwatch. “As you can see, I’m already running late. I’ll inform you next time if I can’t attend dinner. And if Soocheol truly needs protection, inform Grandfather yourself to have Mr. Woo reassigned.”

With a single nod, she turned on her heel and walked out, not giving her mother the chance to argue further.

Chaewoon, who had been standing a few steps behind her, followed without a word. He had no place in their argument, but he had observed everything—the tension in Haein’s shoulders, the way her mother’s words cut deeper than she let on. He saw the flicker of emotion in her eyes before she masked it again, slipping seamlessly back into the persona of Hong Haein, the untouchable executive.

As they reached the car, he opened the door for her. She slid inside without so much as a glance. The drive to the office was quiet, just like the night before. But unlike then, when she had been drained, today she carried a different kind of exhaustion. One that settled deeper, heavier.

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The day unfolded like every other—structured, demanding, and relentless. Haein moved through it with practiced ease, her heels clicking sharply against the marble floors.

Meetings filled her schedule, each one blending into the next discussions with high-profile clients, department evaluations, strategy briefings. She skimmed through reports with sharp eyes, making swift decisions, approving proposals, and dissecting financial forecasts with an air of unwavering confidence.

To everyone around her, she was the same Hong Haein—cold, calculating, and in complete control. But beneath the surface, she could still hear the echo of her mother’s voice from that morning, still feel the weight of an unspoken history pressing against her chest.

Chaewoon remained in the background, silent but ever-present. He noticed the way her fingers curled slightly tighter around her pen during certain conversations, the way she rolled her shoulders in between meetings, as if trying to shake off an invisible weight. He followed her through the day, standing just close enough to protect, just far enough not to intrude.

And yet, for someone who claimed she didn’t need him, she never once told him to leave.

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Haein should be bothered by how much Chaewoon was seeing—the cracks beneath her carefully crafted exterior. He had overheard her parents the night before, witnessed the sharp exchange with her mother this morning. These were the moments she despised the most—when the perfect image she upheld slipped, revealing something raw and unguarded. She hated being seen like that. She hated the idea of someone perceiving her as helpless. More than anything, she hated pitiful eyes.

But Chaewoon didn’t look at her like that.

She had been observing him, too. He was frustratingly good at his job, always a step ahead, always more alert than necessary. But what stood out more was his reaction—last night, this morning. No sympathy. No awkward attempts to comfort her. No hushed, careful tone people used when they thought she was too fragile to handle the truth.

He was simply… there.

Silent. Watchful. Unshaken.

It should have irritated her. Maybe it still did. But strangely, his presence wasn’t as suffocating as it should have been. It no longer set her on edge the way it did when he first arrived. And that was what unsettled her the most.

She was used to reading people. She was used to knowing exactly what their motives were. But with Woo Chaewoon, she wasn’t sure. She was wondering maybe he was just too unreadable.

But she could feel it. And most of the time, her gut feeling never betrayed her.

She glanced up from her paperwork, barely registering the voices of the executives droning on around her. Outside the glass walls of the meeting room, he stood—silent, watchful, unwavering.

Her eyes lingered on him for a moment longer than necessary, trying to decipher him.

Just who are you really, Woo Chaewoon?

Just as she was about to look away, his gaze met hers. Neither of them looked away.

Chaewoon tilted his head slightly, a silent question in his eyes: Do you need something?

Haein blinked, then casually averted her gaze, shifting her attention back to the meeting as if nothing happened.

But Chaewoon caught it—the slight hesitation, the flicker of something unreadable in her expression.

For the first time, Hong Haein was flustered.

< Chapter 2 Chapter 4 >

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a little progress between our leads >< I apologize early if it's too slow or boring asdhjdsldejf next chapters will be more heart fluttering I promise I'm planning on uploading chapter 4 and 5 by today or tomorrow

that said, to the few readers from my twitter account and here on tumblr, I really appreciate you so much!! thank you for leaving a like, reblogging/retweeting, and leaving comments! it motivates me more to not procrastinate and leave this story hanging just like what I did from my past works🥲

also!! please let me know if anyone else wants to be included in the taglist ><

thank you again for reading! I would love to hear your thoughts too ><

taglist: @lvnat1c <3

UNSPOKEN (말하지 않은) Chapter List

A cross-over story between Woo Chaewoon (Ju Jihoon) from Blood Free and Hong Haein (Kim Jiwon) from Queen of Tears.

The undercover bodyguard and the chaebol heiress.

Synopsis

CH1: A Thorn in Her Side

CH2: Day One - Unwelcome Presence

CH3: Cracks in the Ice

CH4: In His Care

CH5: A Quiet Moment

CH6: Curiosities

CH7: Rain, Candy, and Curiosity

UNSPOKEN (말하지 않은)

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

CHAPTER 2: Day One - Unwelcome Presence

Hong Haein goes out of her way to test Woo Chaewoon’s patience, but he meets every challenge with quiet persistence. By the end of the night, she realizes he’s not as easy to shake off as she thought.

Woo Chaewoon had been through high-risk missions, undercover operations, and dangerous encounters. Babysitting a chaebol heiress, however, was proving to be one of the most exhausting assignments he’s ever had.

Hong Haein made it clear from the moment she stepped out of her house that she had no intention of making his job easy.

Dressed in an ivory pantsuit, her hair pulled back in a sleek ponytail, she carried herself with effortless elegance—an air of authority that came naturally. Even without speaking, she commanded attention. She barely spared him a glance before walking ahead, her heels clicking sharply against the pavement. Chaewoon followed, his steps soundless in contrast.

“This isn’t a war zone,” she muttered as they approached her car. “You don’t need to hover.”

Chaewoon remained silent, stepping forward to open the car door for her. She didn’t get in right away. Instead, she turned, her gaze sweeping over him—assessing, calculating. Her arms folded across her chest. “You’re seriously going to follow me around all day?”

“Yes.”

“Even in meetings?”

“Yes.”

“Even if I say no?”

Her lips pressed into a thin line before she let out a quiet scoff. “Suit yourself.”

She slid into the car without another word.

Chaewoon took the passenger seat without hesitation. He noted the way she stiffened slightly at his presence but quickly masked it with disinterest, turning to stare out the window.

At the Queens Group headquarters, she moved fast, weaving through hallways, taking sudden turns, and stopping abruptly—clearly testing if he could keep up. He did. Every single time.

When she entered the executive lounge for coffee, she deliberately took her time, scrolling through her phone as if daring him to tell her to move along. He said nothing, merely standing at a respectful distance.

During lunch, she purposely chose a private restaurant with an exclusive policy against bodyguards. Chaewoon didn’t argue. He simply waited outside, unbothered, scanning the street for any signs of a threat. Forty-five minutes later, when she stepped out, she found him exactly where she had left him—leaning against the car, arms crossed, watching her with that unreadable expression.

“How predictable,” she muttered, adjusting her sunglasses.

Later, at a board meeting, she pretended to forget he existed—until she caught him subtly watching every person in the room, analyzing each movement, every flicker of expression. His gaze wasn’t just on her; it scanned the entire space, searching for threats she wasn’t even aware of.

For a second, something in her wavered. But she wouldn’t let him win.

By late afternoon, after a relentless schedule of meetings, site visits, and strategic discussions, Haein thought she had finally earned a moment of peace. She stepped into her office, exhaling as she shut the door behind her—only to find Woo Chaewoon already inside, standing by the window, scanning the skyline.

She stared at him. “Do you have a key to my office now?”

“No. Your secretary let me in.”

Of course she did. Haein made a mental note to fire her later.

She tossed her bag onto the couch and strode toward him. “I’d prefer it if you didn’t suddenly appear out of nowhere like a ghost.”

“Understood. It won’t happen again.”

That was… fast. Was he losing patience already? Or was she the only one feeling frustrated here? She couldn’t tell, and that only annoyed her more.

She folded her arms. “I’ll be working late until midnight. You can leave now. It’s past working hours.”

Chaewoon remained unfazed. “My working hours are your working hours, Miss Hong. If you’re uncomfortable with me being inside your office, I’ll wait right outside the door. Call me if you need anything.”

Haein narrowed her eyes, irritated by how effortlessly he adapted to every situation. “It’s fine. I won’t be needing you for anything.”

She turned away, dismissing him.

“Suit yourself waiting all night.”

And he did wait, probably will keep waiting all night as she said. Chaewoon was a pro, no doubt about that. Haein exhaled sharply, muttering a quiet, “Whatever.” She’d just pretend he didn’t exist.

Easier said than done.

By 8:00 PM, a soft knock echoed against her office door. Still focused on her paperwork, she barely looked up. “Come in,” she said absently, expecting her secretary.

She didn’t notice anything unusual—until a large hand entered her field of vision, setting down a teacup beside her.

Her pen stilled. Slowly, she lifted her gaze.

It’s Chaewoon….bringing her a cup of tea??

Haein blinked, momentarily thrown off.

Woo Chaewoon—deadpan, unreadable, infuriating Woo Chaewoon—was standing beside her desk, placing a cup of tea down with the same precision as if he were handling classified documents.

She stared at the cup, then at him. “What… is this?”

“Tea,” he replied simply.

“I can see that.” Her eyes narrowed. “Why?”

“You skipped dinner.”

Haein scoffed, leaning back in her chair. “Are you my bodyguard or my babysitter?”

“Your bodyguard.” He met her gaze, unfazed.

“Bodyguards don’t do this.”

“But I’d rather not deal with you collapsing from exhaustion.”

She rolled her eyes, ignoring the tiny flicker of warmth in her chest. “You’re being dramatic.” Chaewoon said nothing, just gave her a look—steady, unreadable, but somehow expectant. Like he already knew she’d drink it.

Annoyed but oddly curious, she picked up the cup and took a slow sip. The warmth seeped through her, easing the tension in her shoulders.

She set it down with a quiet sigh. “It’s not poisoned, at least.”

“Not yet.”

Her head snapped up, but to her surprise, there was the faintest flicker of amusement in his eyes before he turned and walked toward the door.

Did he just… crack a joke?

Haein watched him leave, more confused than before.

She was supposed to be making his life difficult. So why did it feel like she was the one losing ground?

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Chaewoon had been trained for patience, for stillness. Surveillance required it. So did protection. He didn’t mind standing outside her office for hours, but at exactly 8:00 PM, he noticed a pattern.

She hadn’t eaten.

Her secretary had left for the day. No meal deliveries. No break. Just the constant shuffle of papers, the muted glow of her monitor, and the occasional sigh that slipped through the cracks of her composure.

He knocked once. A quiet, polite warning. “Come in,” she said, not bothering to look up.

Chaewoon stepped inside, moving without hesitation. He placed the teacup on her desk with the same precision he would use when setting a weapon down for inspection.

Only then did she notice him.

Her pen stilled. Her gaze lifted, locking onto the cup first, then onto him. “…What is this?”

“Tea,” he said simply.

A beat of silence. Then, suspicion. “Why?”

“You skipped dinner.”

Haein scoffed, leaning back in her chair. “Are you my bodyguard or my babysitter?”

“Your bodyguard.” His voice remained steady. “But I’d rather not deal with you collapsing from exhaustion.”

She rolled her eyes, but he caught the briefest flicker of something in her expression—surprise, maybe. She was testing him. Again.

He let her.

With an exaggerated sigh, she lifted the cup and took a slow sip. The tension in her shoulders visibly eased, though she’d never admit it. She set the cup down. “At least it’s not poisoned.”

“Not yet.”

Haein’s head snapped up, eyes narrowing.

For the first time that day, Chaewoon allowed himself a fraction of amusement—so subtle it could have been imagined—before he turned and left.

Behind him, she sat in stunned silence.

Haein was stubborn, of course. She decided to stay for an hour. Or two. Or three. However long it took for him to leave first.

By 9:00 PM, she was still at her desk, pretending she wasn’t exhausted. The numbers on the screen blurred slightly, her temples ached, and she found herself rubbing her eyes more often than she’d like to admit. But she wouldn’t leave first. Not before he did.

Then, the overhead lights flickered off.

She blinked, momentarily disoriented. The only illumination left was the soft glow of her desk lamp, casting warm shadows across the room. Her hands stilled over the keyboard. For a second, she thought it was a power outage—until she noticed the glow of the hallway lights still shining through the glass walls of her office.

She glanced up, her eyes landing on him. Woo Chaewoon stood just outside, his figure half-lit by the corridor. One hand rested casually on the light switch.

She stared.

He didn’t move. Didn’t explain. Didn’t even look in her direction.

But he had noticed. The way she kept squinting, shifting uncomfortably under the harsh office lighting, rubbing her forehead between paragraphs. She hadn’t even realized it was bothering her. But he did.

Haein sat there for a long moment, unmoving, as she continued what she was doing. She didn’t turn the lights back on.

And Chaewoon, without a word, stepped back into the shadows and continued his silent watch.

10:00 PM, and Haein finally admitted to herself—she was getting sleepy. With a sigh, she pushed back her chair and stepped out of her office, expecting to find the hallway empty.

Instead, there he was.

Chaewoon stood exactly where she had last seen him, posture straight, hands clasped behind his back, completely unbothered by the passing hours. He wasn’t leaning against the wall, wasn’t on his phone, not even shifting his weight. Just standing.

She narrowed her eyes. “Are you not tired? Sleepy? Bored?”

He turned his head slightly, meeting her gaze with the same unreadable expression he always had. “No.” Haein folded her arms. “Not even a little?”

“No.”

She clicked her tongue in frustration. “Unbelievable. You’re not human.”

At that, the corner of his lip twitched—so fast she almost missed it. Almost.

Haein stared at him, then exhaled sharply, rubbing her temples. She was losing this battle.

“I’m done here, so you can leave now,” she said, hoping—foolishly—that he’d take the hint.

“I’ll drive you home,” Chaewoon replied, completely unfazed. She frowned. “I have a driver.”

“He already left. Had to pick up his kid from cram school.”

Her irritation deepened. “And he didn’t think to inform me?”

“I told him I’d cover for him.”

Haein blinked, momentarily thrown off. Since when was he making decisions for her?

As if reading her thoughts, Chaewoon continued, his tone even. “Mr. Kim expected you to leave around five or six, but when you got busy, he was hesitant to ask if he could go. He needed to pick up his daughter, and I didn’t want to disturb you while you were working. I figured it was easier to inform you afterward.” He paused. “I apologize if my decision was hasty or if I overstepped. If you’re uncomfortable with me driving, it won’t happen again. But right now, my job is to get you home safe.”

For once, Haein had nothing to say.

Chaewoon moved with his usual quiet precision, opening the car door for her without a word. She didn’t spare him a glance as she slid into the seat, her expression unreadable. Just as she was settling in, she caught a small yet deliberate motion—his hand hovering just below the car door, a silent precaution to keep her from hitting her head.

A detail so small, yet so telling.

He’s doing too much, she thought, annoyance flickering in her chest.

Before he could close the door, she spoke. “I don’t really care who’s driving me—whether it’s you or Mr. Kim—as long as I get to where I need to be.”

Then, just as he was about to step back, she turned her head, meeting his gaze with a smirk. “But I’ll wear you down eventually, Mr. Woo.”

Chaewoon didn’t react. No shift in expression, no retort. He simply shut the door behind her with the same quiet efficiency.

And yet, as he slid into the driver’s seat, a flicker of amusement danced at the corner of his lips.

We’ll see about that.

< Chapter 1 Chapter 3 >

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wahhhh second chapter is done! I'm writing chapter 3 and 4 right now and planning on uploading them this week >< I'll be busy starting Saturday so I won't be able to upload by then. Thank you again for reading this little cross-over story of mine it means a lot seeing your comments and support!

this story will be veryyy slow burn by the way, I hope you guys won't get too bored by it🥲 for my tumblr moots, I'm @/dalilmountain in twitter/x! if you have an account let's be mutuals there as well >< also let me know if you guys want to be included in the taglist!

well then, see you next chapter!

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.

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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.

Chapter 2 > ------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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!

UNSPOKEN (말하지 않은)

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

This is a story between Woo Chaewoon (Ju Jihoon) from Blood Free and Hong Haein (Kim Jiwon) from Queen of Tears

The undercover bodyguard and the chaebol heiress.

Woo Chaewoon was sent with one mission—get close to Chairman Hong, gain his trust, and uncover the secrets buried beneath Queens Group. But everything went off-script when the chairman, without warning, reassigned him as Hong Haein’s personal bodyguard.

Haein wasn’t just cold—she was ice itself. Sharp words, dismissive glances, and an iron-clad wall that no one dared to cross. “I don’t need a watchdog,” she told him on the first day, barely sparing him a glance. “Just stay out of my sight.” Her voice was clipped, her tone indifferent.

Chaewoon didn’t flinch. He met her gaze with the same level of calm he always carried. “Understood.” He said simply.

But he didn’t. He was always there—silently opening car doors, intercepting aggressive reporters, shielding her from prying eyes. She hated it at first. The way he was always watching, always within reach. But then came the moments she couldn’t ignore. The way he handed her warm tea on late, exhausting nights. How he stood in the pouring rain, waiting for her car to arrive, not moving an inch despite being drenched. The steady, unshaken presence that never demanded anything from her—just stayed.

She started to notice things. The way his eyes softened when she was exhausted. How his voice, always neutral, carried a quiet sincerity whenever he spoke to her. The way his hands, calloused yet careful, always seemed to steady her before she event realized she was faltering.

Chaewoon noticed things too. The way she laughed—real laughter—when she thought no one was watching. The tired loneliness in her eyes when the world wasn’t looking. The way her coldness wasn’t indifference, but armor.

He shouldn’t care. He was a spy, an outsider. But every time he called her name, every time she let her guard down just a little, he knew—his mission was no longer as simple as it once was. It was in the way his pulse slowed when he knew she was safe. The way he memorized his habits without meaning to—the slight furrow of her brows when she was deep in thought, the way she stirred her tea exactly three time before drinking it, and the way he started noticing the way her gaze softens when their eyes meet.

And when Haein, without thinking, grabbed his wrist one night, stopping him from leaving—her grip hesitant but firm—he realized she was beginning to see him too.

And that? That was more dangerous than any mission he had ever taken.

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CHAPTER LIST

Chapter 1: A Thorn in Her Side

Chapter 2: Day One - Unwelcome Presence

Chapter 3: Cracks in the Ice

Chapter 4: In His Care

Chapter 5: A Quiet Moment

Chapter 6: Curiosities

Chapter 7: Rain, Candy, and Curiosty

Chapter 8: The Sound of Rain and Heartbeat

Chapter 9: Almost on the Line

Chapter 10: A Worry He Couldn't Name

Chapter 11: An Unwelcomed Familiar Face

Special Chapter 1: Her Dress and His Necktie

Special Chapter 2: An Intimate Moment (Sneak Peek)

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Might actually make this into a full-length fanfiction with 10-20 chapters at most. I already have drafts but I still need to polish them. But idk we'll see :')