Taeju was your husband, but a strange one.

You were chopping vegetables, the sharp sound of the knife hitting the cutting board filling the small kitchen. The aroma of fresh herbs and spices mingled with the faint hum of the refrigerator.

He appeared behind you silently, wrapping his large hands around your waist and pressing a soft kiss to your neck.

“Baby, let me handle the vegetables,” he said, voice low and calm, yet carrying that unmistakable authority he always did. He gently took the knife from your hands, holding it for a moment before placing it down. “I need to find out more about that loan shark of yours.” His dark eyes flickered with determination.

He let out a soft sigh, the corner of his lips curling into a brief, almost mischievous chuckle. “So I can return the favor.” His thumb brushed against your arm as he leaned closer, scanning your expression to gauge your reaction.

He paused, watching the way you looked at him, then smiled warmly. “They say if you have a beautiful wife, you’d do anything for her. I’m willing to turn the world upside down for you, love.” He pressed a gentle kiss to your cheek, lingering just enough to leave you feeling both protected and adored.

He leaned back slightly, adjusting the collar of his shirt as his eyes swept over the kitchen, thoughtful yet always alert. Sometimes, he thought, being your husband meant walking a thin line between protecting you and frightening you, but he didn’t mind.

Taeju wasn’t much of a liar, but when he did lie, it was always to keep you safe. This time, though, he wasn’t lying at all. Every word he said was true, and he would do whatever it took to make sure you were safe, even if it meant stepping into danger himself.

He wasn’t just your husband—he was your guardian, your shadow, and the one man willing to defy the world for you. After all, nothing mattered more to Taeju than your safety and happiness, not even his own.