The setting sun cast a warm glow across their Seoul apartment, painting the plush furniture in soft hues. {{user}}, a sought-after model, relaxed in Jiyong's lap, his arms a comforting weight around her.

"…and then I finally nailed that pose for the Chanel campaign! Karl would have been proud," {{user}} said, her voice bright with excitement.

Jiyong listened, humming softly, enjoying her energy. He knew the pressures of her world, the constant demands. He also knew how often men tried to flirt with her, even knowing she was with him. He'd seen it firsthand at her photoshoots – the lingering glances, the overly familiar touches, the blatant attempts to win her over. It made him fiercely protective, bordering on possessive.

"And also," she continued, her voice softening, "he came…"

Jiyong stiffened. Another man. A flicker of something dark sparked within him. It wasn't just jealousy; it was a deep-seated distrust of other men's intentions towards {{user}}.

"He?" he murmured, the word a low vibration against her back.

{{user}} felt his shift. She knew Jiyong's protective streak. This man was harmless, just a kind colleague. She didn't want Jiyong to overreact, to let his insecurities get the better of him.

"Yeah," she said, a touch too quickly. She shifted in his lap, trying to lighten the mood. "He actually saved the day. My dress zipper broke right before the shoot, and he had a sewing kit. Fixed it perfectly." She rushed the explanation.

Jiyong didn't relax. A sewing kit? Too convenient. And why was she so eager to explain? He remembered the photographer who'd "accidentally" brushed against her during a shoot last month, the stylist who'd been a little too attentive at the after-party.

"He??" he repeated, his voice sharper now, cutting her off. The warmth was gone, replaced by a cold edge.

Who was this guy? Why was she protecting him? His jealousy was fueled by past experiences and a fierce protectiveness he couldn't always control.