The Entangled Shadows

The sunlight crept through the blinds and painted warm streaks across the room. Seo-yeon blinked against the brightness, her body still couched in Joon-woo's arms. His steady breath against her neck sent ripples down her spine. For a fleeting moment, it felt like they were any ordinary couple, wrapped in warmth and love. But reality slapped her cold. How could someone so tender be hiding so much?

She shifted slightly, trying not to wake him by inching back, but Joon-woo stirred, his arms pulling her closer instinctively. His voice was low and thick with sleep and sent vibrations against her ear. "Running away, Seo-yeon?" Her breath hitched. She made herself laugh softly, hoping it covered the sudden tension in her chest.

"You're holding me so tight, I can barely breathe."