◦ lounge area

@♡ l. ahin. ʰᵃⁿᵃᵏᵃ wonwoo was pleasantly surprised by Ahin's response. he had expected her to want to make significant changes to the house, but her appreciation for the way it was touched his heart.
he smiled at her and said, "I'm glad you feel comfortable here, ahin. you can definitely transform the balcony into your ideal garden. it sounds like a wonderful idea, and I trust your taste in making it beautiful."

wonwoo added, "and for dinner, how about a creamy pasta dish? I'll make it for you. It's one of my specialties. you can even customize it with your favorite ingredients. italians do know their pasta, after all!" he couldn't help but feel excited about spending time together and making her favorite dish.

@♤ j. wonwoo. ʷᵒⁿᵘ her eyes widened at his willingness to have her the rein of how /his/ house should look like. instead, she shook her head and waggled her finger at him with a pout on her visage. "hell no. as much as you allow me to do whatever i want to your house, i don't feel like I should change everything so drastically. the house is okay the way it is now and i'm thankful that you always have my comfort in mind. with you around, i'm always comfortable. if anything.. i think i will transform the outside balcony to my ideal garden. it's as huge as... someone's backyard."

craning her head to get a better look of the balcony, she could visualize her time being spent there and she cannot be any more excited to get down dirty to transform it, only if she was given permission by wonwoo to do so. ahin hummed in thought at his amended suggestion about working together and nodded fervently, already showing her anticipation by standing up from her seat. "Simple pasta dish? Is it tomato-based, cream-based or oil based? I love pasta. it's so fuss-free and so easily customised. Italians for the win!"

@♡ l. ahin. ʰᵃⁿᵃᵏᵃ he listened to ahin's question about making the place cozier with a thoughtful expression. while his preference leaned towards dark themes or even gold and black, he understood that her idea of a cozy home was quite different. his voice was surprisingly gentle compared to their earlier argument outside the club. "well, ahin," he began, his tone soothing, "you're my home now, and I want you to feel comfortable here. if you want to add some warmth and coziness with wooden elements and plants, I'm all for it. It's your home too, after all. just give me the lists of anything you'd need to buy and I'll swipe the card for you. " told him.

as for ahin's offer to assist with cooking, wonwoo's lips curved into a rare smile, a glimpse of warmth in his usually reserved demeanor. he lightly pinched her cheek as a sign of appreciation. "you're too kind, ahin. I appreciate your willingness to help. we can definitely work together in the kitchen. as for the meal, how about a simple pasta dish tonight? it's easy, and we can customize it to your liking."

@♤ j. wonwoo. ʷᵒⁿᵘ his tone being soft as compared to what she had heard during their argument outside of the club was a stark difference, she would be lying if she didn't admitted she prefer this side more to his working facade. "oh no, it's no bother. but thank you for sympathising."

when it came to her ideal house, she would prefer a cosy, homey look that had its wooden elements to it and plants being scattered here and there. right here all she saw was simply gold and marbles and to think if she would adjust to this, it would be never. perhaps now that she was staying with him, she would try to sneak in a plant or two to cancel out the painful opulence that was displayed right out there. "what is your opinion on me... trying to make this place as cosy as possible? And have you always liked.... gold and marbles?"

ahin felt the urge to argue that cup ramen was all she needed but seeing the smile that was hard to come by especially from wonwoo himself, she eventually gave in and gave a nod of agreement. "Well, if that's what make you happy... then yes to something proper. a decent meal is always better than none. only if you allow me to be your assistant like maybe stirring the pot! the cutting will be entirely impossible with.. you know." she rose her bandaged hand to show off to him as she pointed to it with the non-injured hand. "so, what do you have in mind for the meal? I'm really not fussy about what it should be."

@♡ l. ahin. ʰᵃⁿᵃᵏᵃ wonwoo found himself oddly drawn into the sincerity of ahin's gaze, her gentle smile and the vulnerability in her words a stark contrast to their earlier banter. as she shared her difficult past, his eyes softened with understanding, and he felt a pang of empathy for the pain she had endured. he hadn't expected this revelation, and it left him momentarily speechless.

"I'm so sorry to hear that, ahin," he said softly, his tone genuine. he watched as she examined her well-bandaged hand, her nonchalant attitude masking the deeper scars she must be carrying. he admired her resilience, her ability to carry herself with such strength despite the challenges she had faced.

her attention seemed to shift to their surroundings, her eyes darting around the luxurious penthouse. he noticed her struggling to adjust to the opulence, and he nodded in understanding. "adjusting takes time, but I'm confident you'll get used to it and if there's anything you need help with, don't hesitate to ask. I'll do my best to make you feel at home here," he assured her, a hint of warmth in his voice.

he could sense her discomfort when it came to ahin, and he decided not to press the topic further. instead, he allowed the conversation to shift, hoping to ease the tension that had settled between them. when she asked about cup ramen, he chuckled softly. "actually, how about I cook something proper for you? I'm not the best chef, but I can whip up a decent meal. what do you say?" he offered, a small smile tugging at his lips. he wanted to make her feel welcome, to bridge the gap between them, even if it meant stepping out of his comfort zone to do so.

@♤ j. wonwoo. ʷᵒⁿᵘ her soft gaze fell on his, a gentle smile gracing her tiers as she shook her head once. "it's okay, really. it just toughened me up the way i should be especially when my own mother exchanged me for some alcohol at the age of only eleven." with a nonchalant shrug of her shoulders, she brought it closer to her face to examine the well-bandaged hand.

she made noises in oohs and ahs, her eyes darting everywhere and still unable to decide on where or what to look at thus deciding to just focus on the man himself and ignoring the luxuries around him. "Adjusting in time, it will take a long while. I'm so not used to such things where the dorm back at work was nothing but minimalistic at its best." her eyes blinked rapidly to push out the brightness this place brought about, definitely needing to adapt real quick.

a dismayed grunt came out of the female, knowing that wonwoo would defend his man no matter how much she tried to complain about the guy, decided to throw that topic right out the window, her shoulders slumped over. as long as she didn't have to directly deal with him anymore, she would be fine by it. now with her hand treated and everything, she noticed that there was an awkward tension between them and quickly averted her attention elsewhere, her lips pursed in concentration as she tried to change topic. "Indeed i am.. anyways.. do you have any cup ramen in your kitchen?"

@♡ l. ahin. ʰᵃⁿᵃᵏᵃ wonwoo's fingers moved with gentle precision, tending to the bruise on ahin's hand as she spoke. he listened attentively, his expression shifting from focused concern to a thoughtful understanding. her words unveiled a painful past, a childhood marked by her mother's struggles with heartbreak and self-destructive coping mechanisms. he sensed the weight of her memories, the scars that had shaped her fears and apprehensions.

his dark eyes met hers briefly, conveying a mixture of empathy and reassurance. "i'm sorry you had to go through that," he murmured softly, his touch lingering on her hand for a moment longer before he let go, allowing her the space she needed.

her abrupt change of topic didn't escape him as they entered the opulent penthouse. the sight of her taking in the luxurious surroundings with a mix of awe and discomfort didn't go unnoticed either. he recognized the conflicting emotions that must be swirling within her – the allure of freedom mingling with the weight of unfamiliarity.

a faint smile touched his lips as he continued to clean and dress her wound. "you'll adjust in time," he assured her gently, his voice carrying a warmth that contrasted with the coldness of his exterior reputation. the hum that escaped her lips seemed to signify a glimmer of acceptance, a step towards adaptation.

at her mention of another person – someone who had clearly left a mark on her in a different way – a chuckle rumbled in wonwoo's chest. his eyes held a hint of amusement as he met her gaze. "he might be a thorn in many sides, but he's got his uses," he replied cryptically, a flash of intrigue dancing in his eyes. he understood the irritation she felt, yet he seemed to have found some value in this individual that she might not fully see.

as her fingers wiggled and tested the newly treated hand, he allowed himself a softer smile. "you're in one piece now," he remarked, a genuine note of satisfaction in his voice. his attention lingered on her for a moment longer before he leaned back, as if giving her the space to fully regain her composure.

@♤ j. wonwoo. ʷᵒⁿᵘ "i have never thought of getting this deep and to think of exploring that grey area has always scared me. I don't know how that fear came about. ever seeing my mother constantly in and out of depression after every bad breakup had me scarred me for life. perhaps it was because she only met wrong men but still.. the sight of her abusing all sorts of vices just to not feel the pain is just..."

she trailed off, recoiling back to the memory of her childhood where she was standing by the door, watching her mother drown in the waters of alcohol and smoking every pack of cigarettes out there every time a man would make use of her and her financial gains only to dump her at the end once they achieved what they came for. wonwoo's voice dragged her back to the reality and she shook her head to get rid of the bad memory, her hand retracting away from the nape of his neck.

"I'm glad to know that."

Turning her face to the side, she had noticed they have reached the destination and followed his lead, wall the way up to the penthouse to which the sight of such luxuries blew her mind and soul away. It felt freeing yet so suffocating at the same time. It was conflicting but perhaps if she had given herself enough time to get used to all of this, she would be fine. humming softly to herself as she watched him treat her wounds so gently like he was some male version of Mother Theresa, her gaze once shifted to the sight of him simply sitting there and mulling over her injured hand.

"huh, have a way of getting under people's skin? he sure did under mine. I don't know how he stayed in such a position within your gang without having a target on his head. he's so annoying... i would smack him just to tell him to stay humble but boy does he love to shoot his mouth off. Ugh." With a defeated heave of sigh, her shoulders slumped over and wiggled her fingers to see if they were working fine after being treated with such tlc.

@♡ l. ahin. ʰᵃⁿᵃᵏᵃ wonwoo's lips twitched into a rare half-smile at ahin's teasing retorts, her playful words resonating with a warmth he didn't often let himself feel. he could sense the tension between them, the undeniable attraction simmering beneath the surface, and he fought to maintain his composure in the midst of their banter. her words were a dance, a push and pull that left him both intrigued and cautious.

as he drove, his eyes flickered toward her, his stoic facade softening ever so slightly. "becoming my woman wouldn't be about flaunting anything," he replied, his voice low and steady. "it would be about something real, something deeper." he could sense the unspoken desire in her gaze, the tension building between them like a charged current.

her words about his facade struck a chord, and he couldn't help but chuckle softly. "maybe you'll be the one to break it," he mused, his gaze fixed on the road ahead. ahin's presence had a way of chipping away at his armor, making him feel things he had long suppressed.

as she reached out to rub the nape of his neck, a shiver ran down his spine, his skin tingling at her touch. her words about not hiding their true thoughts and feelings resonated deeply with him. he glanced at her, his dark eyes holding a mixture of vulnerability and longing. "you have a way of seeing through the walls I've built," he admitted quietly. "and I appreciate that more than you know."

when they finally reached the penthouse, he parked the car and turned toward her. "let me treat that wound," he said, his voice gentle as he gestured toward the dried blood on her knuckles. he guided her inside, the penthouse exuding an air of opulence that contrasted with the rest of his life. he found the first aid kit and began to carefully clean and dress her injured hand, his touch surprisingly gentle.

as he worked, he looked up at her, his gaze softening. "and about my friend," he said, his voice calm. "he has a way of getting under people's skin. don't think too much about it. he's usually like that." he couldn't help but let a hint of amusement color his words. ahin's fiery spirit was a refreshing change from the shadows that surrounded him, and he found himself drawn to her in ways he couldn't fully comprehend.

@♤ j. wonwoo. ʷᵒⁿᵘ "And I like to know how I am charming other than my and being flaunted at men to come at me just so I can earn money. huh, how so? uh huh, by becoming your woman, i would have that? mhm?", she teased back just the same and fought the urge to pull him into one hot, messy passionate kiss.

Musing as her arms crossed on her chest and her finger drumming on her bicep, she looked ahead, just watching the car shifting lanes and making turns. "huh? that's interesting especially I have not even seen you break that stoic facade you had on for years. all i'm saying is i'm certainly looking forward to you looking way more happier than how you have been at the club."

her hand reached out to rub the nape of his neck in a comforting way and she hummed, her gaze falling on every facial feature of his. "And the same goes for you; you don't have to hide your true innermost thoughts and feelings whenever you're around me, Wonwoo. Indeed.. it does bind us. I will fight those who try to harm you with little knowledge of fighting I have. And i sure hope you have first aid kit at your place. Look at these dry blood... I'm really terribly sorry for punching your man, he just.... ticked me off too much."

@♡ l. ahin. ʰᵃⁿᵃᵏᵃ wonwoo leaned back slightly, a glint of amusement in his eyes as he replied to Ahin's musings, "you know, you're quite charming, actually. at the top of the food chain and having all that money? well, let's just say, you might not be too far off from that day." he allowed a smirk to play at the corners of his lips, a gentle tease reflecting the reality of his intentions.

as her wide grin met his words of reassurance, wonwoo couldn't help but feel a warmth spreading within him. her nod and the hint of affection in her gaze were all he needed as confirmation that his presence mattered to her.

chuckling softly at her mention of keeping his meal warm, he shook his head slightly. "well, I'm not always as composed as you might think. but you've got a way of sneaking into my thoughts, ahin." he smirked playfully, allowing a hint of his true emotions to shine through.

her chortle was a melodic sound that resonated with him, and he turned his gaze toward the window, his eyes thoughtful as he considered her perspective. her words about the industry's emotional suppression struck a chord within him, reminding him of the heavy burden they both bore.

"you're right," he admitted, his voice soft. "this world demands a facade, a mask that hides what's beneath. but I want you to know, Ahin, that with me, you don't have to wear that mask anymore." he met her gaze with sincerity, the gravity of his words underscoring his intentions.

when she squeezed his hand tightly, a warmth spread through his chest. her words resonated deeply within him. "we might have taken different paths, but our origins bind us in ways that go beyond these walls," he said, his voice steady and earnest. "and I intend to ensure that you're safe and cared for, away from all this."

@♤ j. wonwoo. ʷᵒⁿᵘ "must be nice.. i have always wondered what it is like being at the top of the food chain and having that much money.." she mused quietly, thinking of a day which was impossible by her standards, where she would be the head honcho of the gang and putting in rules and laws that would make it a comfortable and safer place for her fellow courtesans.

listening to his words of reassurance, she couldn't help but to grin widely at that and nodded once at him in response, catching his look of warmth. "yeah, do update me if you're on the way so when you reach, your meal will be all warm and toasty. what do you mean you didn't expect that? You sure looked like you kept your emotions at bay. whatever happen, nothing is surfacing up to your facial surface and i have always been wondering if your emotions has been severed from you. if that is the case, i would be really and immensely worried about you. I- I find my way into your thoughts? Wow, i must really be this charming to do that."

With a light chortle escaping her tiers, she looked out the window again and heard that he was in the midst of sorting his emotions out, turning her face towards him once again. "In this industry, you are forced to keep whatever feeling you have deep inside. I can understand what and how this place will make you do and think.. until then, i am waiting for you. It is also why i let my emotions explode earlier because to me, it's ridiculous how one should keep mum about everything and not speak up whenever we're frustrated or angry. after all, we're humans."

"I value you too, Wonwoo." with her hand still locked under his, she squeezed it tightly. "I always understand because we come from the same place despite the different paths."

@♡ l. ahin. ʰᵃⁿᵃᵏᵃ wonwoo chuckled softly at ahin's comment about covering the hefty sum. "well, it's all part of the job, and you're right, being at the helm does come with its perks," he replied, his tone casual. as her mood seemed to shift towards a more relaxed one, he couldn't help but smile, appreciating the comfort settling between them.

when ahin brought up the topic of him coming home for dinner, his smile softened. "deal. no matter how late it gets, I'll make sure to be home for dinner." he glanced at her with a hint of warmth in his eyes before focusing on the road once more.

her next words, however, took him by surprise. He felt his cheeks heat up slightly at her compliment and the confession she shared. ahin, I... didn't expect that," he admitted, his voice genuine. "I always intended to keep my emotions at bay, especially when it came to relationships. i didn't want to get swayed by anyone." he paused for a moment, choosing his words carefully. "but you, you managed to find a way into my thoughts."

he stole a quick glance at her, a soft smile tugging at his lips. "I appreciate your honesty, and I want you to know that I'm kind of in the middle of sorting out my own emotions too. you deserve more than someone who's conflicted. so, if you're willing to give me some time to figure things out, I promise I'll give you an answer when I'm ready." his grip on the steering wheel tightened slightly, a mix of vulnerability and determination in his gaze.

"I value you, Ahin, and I don't want to rush into something without being sure. I hope you understand," he added sincerely, hoping that his words conveyed the depth of his feelings and his intentions.

@♤ j. wonwoo. ʷᵒⁿᵘ "How do you even cover it? It's quite a hefty sum at that-", she paused, realizing something and then hummed it off with a nod of her head. "I forgot you're the boss of the gang... You're rich.. That must be nice.." With a relieved heave of a sigh, she leaned back way more comfortable than she was earlier, all while staring out the windows and watching the trees becoming a blur as the car rode on.

with a light chortle, she turned to look at his side profile, watching him having his eyes on the road. "alright.. i shall stay around as i am... Just make a promise then if that's your thing. Come home for dinner no matter how late it get."

her eyes widened in surprise and half shaking, half nodding until she got confused as to whether she should agree on the spot or play a little pull and push game. Her gaze dropped to her hand placed on his thighs, her cheeky index finger poking out of his hold to run in circles. "Mhm.. you're handsome. Else why would i develop a crush on you halfway through our duration of friendship? So many women kept looking at you whether in this industry or outside of it. I thought i gonna have to act fast but you.. I have to admit, is one whole different story. No matter how y I dress or make you look while pretending to seduce the high profile clients, you seem pretty stoic."

@♡ l. ahin. ʰᵃⁿᵃᵏᵃ wonwoo smiled gently, his eyes focused on the road ahead as he listened to her concerns. "you know, you don't need to worry about your debt anymore. I've got that covered. as long as you're with me, everything will be taken care of," he reassured her in a calm tone.

he glanced at her briefly, his lips curving into a playful grin. "sure, I'll be busy with work, but that doesn't mean I won't make time for you. you can count on me to be there when you need me. I always keep my promises."

he chuckled softly at her offer, his gaze returning to the road. "as tempting as your proposition is, I'd rather have you around for who you are, not as a way to settle debts." his voice held a warm sincerity as he continued, "just stay with me. that's all I want."

the night outside embraced the car, and wonwoo's cheeks turned slightly red despite his attempt to hide it. he cleared his throat lightly and looked out of the window on his side. however, he couldn't help but notice her hand reaching out. swiftly, he gently took her hand and held it on his thigh.

he glanced at her with a playful twinkle in his eyes. "am I that handsome?" he asked, his tone a mixture of amusement and affection.

@♤ j. wonwoo. ʷᵒⁿᵘ sitting in his car quietly and clutching tightly onto the seat belt, she merely looked out the windows to get lost in her thoughts when his voice broke though that and she shifted her focus on the man driving. "Mhm?", she answered with a hint of nervousness in it, wondering what he might have to say. her eyes widened at his suggestion and the first thing she thought about was her friends back then but again being just with him was tempting enough too.

"entertain you and only you? but you will be preoccupied with work though. even if i wanted to quit, i still have a little more to go before my debt is written off. i have to find a way around it if i wanted to be with you...", she mused loud enough for just the two of you despite being inside the car. "Is there a way i can do something with you just so i can pay off the remaining part of my debt?"

She turned to face him, once again noticing his side profile in so long that she realized that gotten much more handsomer than she remember. Her hand subconsciously reached out to caress his cheek but before it could make contact with his cheek, she paused and quickly retracted it away lest it could distract him from driving safely.

@♡ l. ahin. ʰᵃⁿᵃᵏᵃ driving ahin home in his private car, the city lights flickered by, casting a gentle glow inside the vehicle. he stole a glance at her, his heart pounding louder than the engine's hum.

"ahin, I've been thinking..." he started, his voice steady but carrying a weight of sincerity. He paused for a moment, collecting his thoughts before continuing. "maybe you should quit that job and stay with me, just entertain me. nobody else."

he stole another glance at her, her profile illuminated by the passing lights. his heart raced, his mind echoing with doubts. would she understand the sincerity behind his words? would she even consider leaving her job for him?

@♤ j. wonwoo. ʷᵒⁿᵘ her expressions softened further as she listened to the backstory behind why he hadn't been really himself lately. how had she not known or guessed that he was in pain all these while despite being friends for so long that the past had made him what he was now. "why did you not tell me all of these? you know i wouldn't hurt you at all like how your father have done so."

her hand jerked upwards to reach out to grab his hand in earnest to offer some solace when she stopped from doing so because of the prescene of the henchman and waited til he was dismissed away to which ahin looked behind to make sure he was absolutely gone and also that there shouldn't be anyone else around them. whipping her face around to look at him, she plucked up the courage to step closer to him and as chapped as her lips might be, she smacked them together probably out of nervosity.

her gaze fell to his extended hand and as warm and inviting as it appeared to be, she hesitated for a good second before doing the same to grasp his in her own, lacing her short, delicate fingers through his. with her gaze still down at their intertwined hands, she whispered almost lowly that only the two of them could hear. "yeah, let's head home."

@♡ l. ahin. ʰᵃⁿᵃᵏᵃ wonwoo's gaze softened as he listened to ahin's heartfelt words, his expression betraying the depth of his emotions. with a sigh, he began to share a painful truth that had shaped his demeanor over the years. "ahin, you asked about moments when I felt something despite my stoic personality. there was a time, a long time ago, when I was a different person. when I was a child, I found out that my father was having an affair with my stepmother. the betrayal, the broken trust, it tore my family apart. my mother fell sick, and she... she didn't make it. I couldn't forgive my father for what he did."

his eyes clouded with memories, and his voice held a mixture of pain and vulnerability. "after that, I built walls around myself. I couldn't trust anyone easily. I was afraid of getting hurt again. I know it's not fair to judge everyone based on that, but it's been my way of protecting myself. even with you, ahin, I've been cautious. it's not because of you, it's because of my own issues."

he turned his attention to the henchman who had interrupted them, a subtle irritation in his gaze. "cancel that meeting. I'll see him tomorrow. tell him something urgent came up." as the henchman left, he returned his focus to ahin, his expression gentle yet conflicted. "I can't keep letting my past dictate how I live in the present and I don't want to push you away. so, let's get you home." he extended his hand towards her, a silent invitation for her to take it and let him be there for her.

@♤ j. wonwoo. ʷᵒⁿᵘ she let out a mocking scoff while crossing her arms on her chest, looking right into his eyes and shook her head once purely out of disbelief. "Wonwoo ah... please tell me this.. have there ever been a moment where you feel something despite your stoic personality?" with a deep heave of her chest, she moved her dominant hand to run through her tresses, again with her eyes closed, and wishing that she could just kiss and hug him right there and then. yet the situation at hand didn't call for it.

"then please help me understand, just what's going on? You're not the same man i remember you were when we were younger. What caused you to change to an empty shell of yourself?" With one step forwards toward him, a voice spoke behind them and subconsciously she turned to face whoever were speaking.

"Sorry but uhm.. a client wishes to speak to you, Boss." Of course one of his henchmen came to collect him, forever snatching the only support she could lean on away at such opportunistic times. With quivering lips, she turned to face the man she missed so sorely and smiled faintly. "I guess they needs you more than I do."

@♡ l. ahin. ʰᵃⁿᵃᵏᵃ As Wonwoo held her delicate wrist, a rush of emotions surged within him, but he struggled to articulate the words he longed to say. He gazed into her eyes, a mixture of regret and longing evident in his own. The desire to tell her how he truly felt warred with the complexities of their shared world.

His grip loosened gradually, and his fingers slipped from her wrist as he softly murmured, "Ahin, I wish I could explain. There are things you don't understand, reasons I can't share. But please believe me, hurting you was never my intention."

He took a step back, his eyes never leaving hers, wanting her to comprehend the depth of his feelings even if he couldn't voice them aloud. "I know I've caused damage, not just physically but emotionally too. And I promise, I'll do whatever it takes to make amends, to compensate for the pain I've caused."

@♤ j. wonwoo. ʷᵒⁿᵘ perhaps for once, she realized she should have never had a crush on a man associated with the world they both were involved in because one thing would be that it would all lead to an endgame. the moments before she swung her leg forward to kick him in the torso, she caught the fleeting emotions of surprise and realisation in his eyes and wasn't sure what to make of it before the next scene happened of her leg making contact with his torso. boy, was the sound loud and ahin wasn't sure if her bon actually broke or his muscles being so hard that the impact might be louder.

what had taken her aback more was the way he grasped his long, delicate fingers around her thin wrist and pulled her towards him, whispering her name. a flash of confusion came and went across her visage, her eyes full of anger yet sadness peering up into his. "W-What? it's not a big deal, every day there was always a woman be it the courtesan, the performers or customers having crushes on you. I mean we did knew each other for so long and only then recently do i missed seeing you around when you was gone for so long for god know why. not a big deal and you're hurting me, my wrist."

@♡ l. ahin. ʰᵃⁿᵃᵏᵃ Wonwoo's usually composed demeanor faltered as he processed Ahin's words, his mind racing to keep up with the whirlwind of revelations. He had known her for years, and yet, the reality of her life had been shrouded in secrets he never could have fathomed. Her defiance and unapologetic attitude pierced through the facade he had always associated with her.

As she leaned in, her words a mixture of vulnerability and defiance, he found himself frozen in place, his heart pounding in his chest. Her confession, unexpected and raw, shattered his assumptions about her, leaving him momentarily speechless. His eyes locked onto hers, a mixture of surprise, recognition, and a hint of realization flickering in their depths.

When her foot swung towards him, he reacted instinctively, his hand moving to block the impact. But her speed caught him off guard, and her kick landed against his torso with more force than he had anticipated. The pain was a sharp jolt, but it was the surprise and hurt in her voice that struck him the hardest.

Her touch traced his jawline, and he felt the warmth of her finger against his skin. The churning mix of emotions inside him threatened to spill over, but he managed to find his voice, his grip on her wrist tightening as he pulled her closer by her waist.

"Ahin?" he uttered, his voice a mixture of incredulity and a hint of desperation. The weight of her confession, the revelation of her connection to his past, it all crashed down around him. He searched her eyes, seeking confirmation, seeking some semblance of understanding in the midst of the chaos that had unraveled before him.

@♤ j. wonwoo. ʷᵒⁿᵘ before she even reached her booth, she got dragged out of the lounge area firmly and rolled her eyes at what he had to say. her feet cold upon the contact with the pavement outside, she pushed her hair back with her other hand that wasn't bleeding. "just face it, you and your lot make money off us and by right you should be putting your man in his place. why wait until i have to step in and intervene? so much for being the boss."

"it is not like I have never lived life without repercussions, so don't make it like i have never been punished before."

a long sigh was drawled out by the female as she closed her eyes to refocus and to try to breathe deeply to reduce the intensity of the migraines that was attacking her the minute she stopped punched the poor guy. with his threats constantly coming one after another, she pried her eyes open and looked straight dead into his eyes. "i can always seek solace in another gang and spill all secrets of yours."

she stepped forwards, leaning dangerously close enough just for him to hear her whispers. "sure, i might be a pawn but nobody say what a pawn should do..." without a warning sign, she simply swung her leg backwards and then forwards towards his torso all in matters of seconds before staggering backwards, not caring if he was one bit hurt. "to think i have a little crush on you all these while yet...", she mused while tracing his jawline with her finger. "you're not what you seemed to be." Another scoff of scorn flowed out of her like water and ahin turned around, an expression of chagrin clouded her countenance.

@♡ l. ahin. ʰᵃⁿᵃᵏᵃ Wonwoo's face hardened as he pulled Ahin away from the lounge area, his grip firm. "You think your little outburst is going to change anything? You're just a worker here, missy and don't you dare forget that. Your self-righteous anger won't make a damn bit of difference in the grand scheme of things."

He looked at her bloodied hand with a cold expression. "You damaged my guy? Do you have any idea what kind of repercussions that can lead to? You may be bringing in money, but don't ever mistake that for power. You're replaceable, just like everyone else here."

He scoffed at her words about her intentions. "Oh, spare me the sob story about 'protecting the younger girls.' You're in a business that thrives on exploitation. Don't pretend like you're some righteous savior in this cesspool."

His voice dropped to a dangerous whisper, his eyes flashing with anger. "You want to threaten to leave? Fine. Go ahead. But don't think for a second that I'll let you waltz out of here unscathed. You know what we're capable of, Ahin. Don't push your luck."

He stepped back, his tone dripping with disdain. "I couldn't care less about your frustrations or your opinions. Keep your emotions in check and remember your place. You're not a crusader; you're just a pawn in this game."

@♤ j. wonwoo. ʷᵒⁿᵘ she let out a frustrated sigh, bringing her bloodied hand up to massage her aching temples and her eyes closed momentarily to regain back the energy she just spent damaging one of his guys' face. not that she was any bit apologetic about it, he truly deserved it for the way he had completely destroyed her girls' experiences about being a courtesan. sure it did involved and many unrequited acts a woman might never though beyond of. regardless, it did not warrant such a treatment from a man who did not know what is permissible consent. "It might be your place and you protect your people. from what i see, you are doing the most absolute ty job at doing it."

Letting out a strangled chuckle, she peered up with so much animosity that she didn't know what to do at this point while her fellow colleagues looked on in fear and worry. "Maybe you should tell your brother to do better at this rate. Fire me, then do it. I'm the one bringing in the most money among my girls and the reason why i did was so that i can do most of the works and distribute among us. So these younger girls wouldn't have to go through these kinds of traumas. How do you feel if your sister land up here, in this place?" she literally was screaming all her frustrations, right up at him while poking his half-clothed shirt harshly.

"so fire me if you want and i can always go to another place and make them more money than i can here." she staggered backwards, a grieving glint flashing through her eyes. with a final beat of silence, she turned around to head back to her booth, stopping halfway there to take her heels off which was pretty much bothering her.

@♡ l. ahin. ʰᵃⁿᵃᵏᵃ "You don't have to teach me regarding that," Wonwoo's voice resonated with a calm authority, his tone unwavering amidst the tension. "It's my place and I protect my people." His eyes met hers, holding a steadfast resolve. "Perhaps it was you that they were talking about. You think you're all good, huh?" His words carried a hint of skepticism.

"Those courtesan girls are not under my power, by the way, before you judge me. It was my brother," he explained, his expression softening slightly. "Even though I can possess the power to get you fired." He didn't back down, his gaze meeting hers with a judging looks.

@♤ j. wonwoo. ʷᵒⁿᵘ she rolled her wrist that would be landing one more blow and pulled back her arm to bring forth another punch when rough, thick fingers grasped themselves around her wrist, causing her to turn her face towards whoever was holding her back. with an angry frown, she looked into the eyes of the man and struggled to break free.

"your own place? if this place belong to you, why are you not doing anything to protect your staff, mhm? and i assume this man is one of yours then. he's better off dead too since he is nothing but a scum," she spat out bitterly, wanting to step forward again just to punch a little more but she had to hold herself back since the owner of this place was standing just behind her. "if the boss like yourself or any bodyguard isn't bothering to protect his own courtesans, then who else will? courtesans are still human too. of course i seem familiar. I'm just one of your staff, ."

@♡ l. ahin. ʰᵃⁿᵃᵏᵃ Wonwoo leaned against a pillar, his eyes fixated on the unfolding scene with a twisted sense of amusement. He took a slow sip of his drink, the corners of his lips curling up as he watched his friend get his just desserts. But as the situation escalated, he finally decided to intervene, recognizing the line that was being crossed.

Setting his drink down on a nearby table, Wonwoo approached the confrontation with an air of authority. His steps were deliberate and confident, a stark contrast to the chaos that had erupted around him. As he reached Ahin, he smoothly intervened, his grip firm as he intercepted her hand before it could land another punishing blow.

With a demeanor as cold as steel, Wonwoo's voice cut through the tension. "Can't you see? He's already weak," he stated, his tone matter-of-fact. The corners of his lips quirked slightly, a smirk playing at his lips as he continued, "Are you intent on killing him at my own place?"

He gently pushed Ahin's hand away, his eyes then shifting to signal his bodyguards to attend to his friend. "Send him to the hospital. Bills on me," he commanded, his words leaving no room for negotiation.

Glancing back at Ahin, his expression remained stoic as he offered a brief analysis, his voice laced with intrigue, "Never knew a courtesan could be this bold." His gaze lingered on her for a moment longer, a subtle spark of curiosity dancing in his eyes before he turned his attention back to the situation at hand. "You seems familiar."

@♤ j. wonwoo. ʷᵒⁿᵘ the one man that many of her courtesans had complained about came up from among the gang, making unnecessary remarks about her body and comments on ing her til she pass out. ahin, for once, rolled her eyes at that and brushed the man's hand off her shoulder. with a bored look on her countenance, she turned to look at him straight in the eyes and mused quietly. "so you are the man that had not been respectful of my girls and not following the rules when it come to any of the staff regardless of their job. let me tell you then that nobody can."

the back of her right hand reached out to caress the side of the man's face while her free hand rested on his shoulder, a subtle smile playing on her rosy tiers. she dragged out the motion so slow that the man let out a happy sigh. in the next second, a thud could be heard between the female's balled fist and the man's cheekbone, sending him staggering backwards. her hand stretched out to ease off the throbbing pain underneath, she casually walked over to where he had landed and merely peered down without even bothering to kneel to check.

"like i said, i don't allow anyone of your decorum to treat my girls this way." she motioned to her security guys to help her drag the fallen man to a standing position to which ahin once again caressed his other cheek with her left hand and repeated the whole motion from before. void of any expression and emotion, she continued to punch him as soon as he recoiled and bounced back from each punch, making sure that he stay down and ignoring the fact that she was hurting her precious hands.