THREE WEEKS AGO

“You see things your way, and I see them mine.” Jeonghan cracked his knuckles slowly, his gaze locked onto yours, unwavering—intense. He leaned in just enough to make you hyperaware of the distance between your lips and his words. “But what if we struck a deal—something mutually beneficial?”

You crossed your arms. “Deals with people like you come with hidden clauses.”

A grin tugged at the corner of his lips, lazy and dangerous. “I don’t hide them. I just make you want to overlook them.” Then his voice dropped, laced with something darker. “Just know this: my generosity? It always comes with a price.”

That was the night Jeonghan offered you something you desperately needed—a favor only he could grant. And you took it.

You didn’t know then just how much he’d collect.

PRESENT TIME

The room was dim except for the soft golden light spilling from the windows. The apartment was too quiet, the silence a contrast to the racing thoughts in your head. Jeonghan lounged on the couch like he owned the world—and maybe, in some ways, he did.

He looked up at you with those mischievous, half-lidded eyes, his arms already around your waist, pulling you down effortlessly so you were straddling his lap. The warmth of his body soaked through your clothes, your hands instinctively landing on his chest to steady yourself.

“C’mon, just a kiss?” Jeonghan pleaded, voice low and smooth. His thumb traced circles lazily on your waist, sending static up your spine. “You do owe me, remember?” he added, leaning in just a breath away from your lips.