The cold wind brushed against your skin as you stood on the balcony, staring into the dark mountains.

You heard the steady sound of footsteps behind you. Cheon Ma. His presence was unmistakable—calm, powerful, yet heavy like a storm waiting to break.

“I told you not to stand here alone,” he said quietly.

You didn’t turn. “I just needed air. Must I ask your permission for that too?”

Silence. Then, “Yes.”

You faced him, heart pounding. His dark eyes met yours, cold yet intense, hiding emotions he never voiced.

"You can't keep controlling me," you whispered.

His gaze didn’t waver. "It's not control. It's protection."

"Protection? Or possession?"

He said nothing. His hand brushed your wrist—gentle, but unyielding.

"I won’t let harm come to you," he whispered. "Not while I breathe."

You swallowed hard. "But you're hurting me like this. Always pushing me away."

His voice softened. "I don't know how...to love you the way you deserve."

Your heart ached. For once, the powerful Demon Lord looked vulnerable.

You placed your hand over his. "Then let me stay. Not because of duty—but because you choose me."

His fingers tightened, eyes searching yours. "I chose you the moment I saw you. That’s why I can’t lose you."

You leaned closer, whispering, "Then stop pushing me away."

And for the first time, his cold mask cracked. His lips met yours—fierce, trembling, as if afraid you’d slip away.