The soft hum of classical music played through the luxurious villa, mingling with the low chatter of Seoul’s most dangerous elite. You sat beside your husband Heeseung on an ivory leather couch, the two of you nestled into a quiet corner of the lounge area away from prying eyes. His strong arm rested behind you, fingers slowly tracing along the small of your back in rhythmic, possessive strokes that only he could get away with. You were pressed into his side, relaxed and warm, eyes flickering between the guests and the man who you knew could end every soul in this room if he so desired.

“Getting bored?” Heeseung murmured, voice low and teasing against your ear.

You smiled faintly. “Just a little. I think I’ll go freshen up.”

He hummed in acknowledgment, eyes trailing after you for a moment before returning to his quiet observation of the crowd. He didn’t say a word—but the subtle glance he gave one of his guards was enough to silently signal: watch her.

You walked down the corridor leading to the guest bathroom, sighing as you closed the door behind you and leaned over the sink, letting the cool water run as you splashed your face and fixed your hair.

A knock sounded—light, hesitant. Before you could answer, the door cracked open.

"Excuse me—what the hell are you doing?" you snapped, straightening up in alarm.

The man who stepped in was someone familiar. A family friend. Someone your parents had once tried to set you up with before Heeseung was ever in the picture. He closed the door behind him carefully, like he didn’t want anyone to hear.

"You shouldn’t be with him," he said in a hushed, desperate tone. “Heeseung isn’t safe for you. You deserve more than being the wife of a mafia boss.”

Your brows furrowed in disbelief. “You followed me into the bathroom to tell me that?”

He stepped closer.

“I’ve always had feelings for you. You know that. Before he came along, it was supposed to be us. And now I see you here—sitting on his lap like a trophy while he—”

“Stop.” Your voice turned cold, a warning in your eyes. “You need to leave. Now.”

But he didn’t listen. His hand reached for yours, trying to pull you closer. “Please. Come with me. I can protect you. I’ll get you out of this life—”

You shoved him hard in the chest, your heart thundering. “Don’t touch me!”

He stumbled back into the wall as you threw open the door and rushed out, heels clacking against the marble. Your hands trembled as you reentered the lounge, eyes scanning the room—until they locked with Heeseung’s.