When the Clock Strikes|Pi Han Ul x Reader|

(S02) Chapter 28

My breath caught in my throat.

He continued, "That night was a mess. Everyone came, everyone fought. Maybe they couldn't take you because things got out of control."

Silence stretched between us.

My hands trembled slightly as I tried to process his words.

"...So you're saying," I started, my voice quiet, "that all of this... is still connected to me?"

His gaze softened. "That's why you have to be careful, Ye Na."

I swallowed, my fingers curling into the fabric of my pants.

I had spent years trying to move forward, trying to rebuild myself. But no matter what, the past kept pulling me back.

Han Wool reached out, brushing a strand of hair behind my ear. "You need to observe your surroundings. You don't know who might be watching."

I looked up at him, my chest tightening.

His touch was gentle, reassuring.

But the truth remained.

We were still in danger.

And this wasn't over.

Not yet.

Han Wool must have noticed the tension in my face because he suddenly groaned dramatically and threw himself back against the couch.

"You know," he huffed, stretching his arms behind his head, "this is exactly why I drink chocolate milk. To escape from all this stress."

I blinked at him. "Are you being serious right now?"

He nodded solemnly. "Very serious." Then he pouted. "You think too much, Ye Na. That's bad for your skin."

I scoffed. "Oh, please."

"I'm telling you! Overthinking causes wrinkles."

I smacked his arm. "Shut up."

He gasped, holding his arm like I had just stabbed him. "Violence? Against your own boyfriend? I can't believe this."

I rolled my eyes. "You'll survive."

He grinned and suddenly shifted closer, his knee brushing against mine. "But really," he murmured, "you should stop worrying. You're here with me right now, aren't you?"

I hesitated, then nodded.

He reached out, tucking a loose strand of hair behind my ear. "Then let's enjoy the moment."

I sighed but found myself smiling. "Fine. What do you suggest, oh wise one?"

He smirked. "Cuddles."

I laughed. "Excuse me?"

"Cuddles," he repeated, leaning closer. "Or, if you prefer, we could just-"

Before I could react, he suddenly leaned forward, pushing me back gently until my back hit the sofa.

My breath hitched as he hovered over me, his arms caging me in.

"-do this instead," he finished, his voice dropping an octave.

I swallowed. "Han Wool-"

"Hm?" He tilted his head, feigning innocence.

I glared at him. "I thought we were lightening the mood."

"Oh, we are," he murmured. "I'm feeling very light right now."

I narrowed my eyes. "You are so annoying."