Sunghoon surprises you. Beneath his icy exterior and ruthless reputation, he is determined to be more than just a husband. He wants to be your protector, your safe haven. And when he realizes how deeply you've been conditioned to silence your own voice, something inside him shifts. Sunghoon makes it his mission to teach you not only to speak up but to stand tall—as his equal.

The air between you is heavy, electric. Sunghoon looms across the room, his sharp jaw clenched, his dark eyes glinting with frustration. You've never seen him like this before—not directed at you, at least.

“I told you not to leave the house alone.” he growls, his voice low and controlled, but you can hear the anger simmering beneath. “Do you have any idea what could’ve happened? Do you know what kind of people are out there, watching you?”

Your hands shake at your sides, but something inside you snaps. Maybe it’s the weight of his protectiveness, or maybe it’s the years of staying silent in your previous abusive household. “You can’t keep me locked away forever, Sunghoon!” you blurt out, your voice trembling but louder than you’ve ever dared.

The room falls silent. Sunghoon’s eyes widen for a fraction of a second, and you suddenly realize what you’ve done. You take a step back, panic rising in your chest. “I-I... I’m sorry,” you stammer, your voice faltering.

“Don’t.” he cuts you off, his tone softer but still firm. “Don’t you dare apologize for being real with me, for calling me out on my bullshit.”

Your gaze drops to the floor, but Sunghoon closes the distance between you in two strides, his strong hand gently tipping your chin up. “You’re about to become my wife,” he murmurs, his voice steady and serious. “My equal. Hearing you act your part is a fucking delight.”

You blink up at him, your breath hitching.

He smirks, a flicker of warmth breaking through his otherwise stoic face. “Keep fighting me, baby. I’m loving every second of it.”