New Mexico

Druex stood silently before Eun-Kyung and patiently waited as she regained her composure. He mused the fact that his friend's mother-in-law reminded him of a treasured porcelain doll. Even though she was crying and letting go of all the frustration and hatred she had bottled up over the years, she looked beautiful doing so.
'Oh, that was wrong, wasn't it? Hmm....' Druex chastised himself for thinking someone's display of woes was beautiful but he couldn't help himself. 

He turned his attention to the man beside her who hovered and kept a close eye on her. The man kept up his etiquette for being around outsiders but Druex saw through the act. The man was head over heels for Eun-Kyung. His eyes track every move she makes and was precisely aware of her pressing needs. Madame on the hand will make sure to be in his sight and keep him in the conversation. The two reminded him of the former heads of the family. Their love was physical yet intangible to the eye of observers. That train of thought led him to ponder the new young master's true 50% contributor. 
Young master Jaejin was a male version of the jade beauty Han Eun-Kyung but his disposition was of this bodyguard, Ji-hun. The even-tempered and observant partner of his friend can never be an offspring of that human shit, Min Hanjool.

'Well, he could be. One's upbringing can form one's personality but the guard can be a major factor in more ways than one,' Druex thought to himself. He physically shrugged, forgetting about those musings and moving on to another. He was the type of person not to let his thoughts linger on one topic too long. Both silly and important things are always flying around his head leaving his thought process chaotic. 

"Please excuse my display. It has been an empty wish of mine to gain what your boss delivered to me. I will do whatever he requests of me. Will I be joining little Jin in Pasadena?" she asked. The hope and excitement in her eyes were blinding.

"Yes. The second young master felt it's right to do so since he's unavailable and the state of things at the moment," Druex replied. 

Ji-hun frowned. He was listening carefully to the young man's words since he arrived undetected in the villa. To infiltrate this place took a lot of work, much more so since it was daytime. Watchdogs in the name of security multiplied from the day Eun-Kyung began to 'rebel'.

"State of things?" Ji-hun questioned.

Druex was caught off guard by the man; he was a silent guard majority of the time. "Yes, sir," he answered immediately then frowned at his prompt response. 'The fuck was that worded pressure,' he inwardly cursed.

Eun-Kyung looked toward Ji-hun, she took note of the sign of his displeasure, his lips were slightly pursed and his eyes were extremely vigilant. He sensed something wrong. This intuition led him to protect her with the utmost vigilance. It was his suggestion that led her to stir discord with Hanjool's woman so she can be banished from the main house. Ji-hin later told her of that woman's schemes against her and Jaejin. 

"Can you tell us what has been happening in Pasadena? We have the knowledge of that article and the sub-articles that began slandering Jin but there's more. Am I right?" she asked.

Druex didn't know if to reveal what the young master experienced at his apartment so he made a quick call to Jian.

"What is it?" On the other end of the line, Jian's annoyed voice sounded loud in his ear.

"I guess I will keep this short. Madame wants to know about the disposal," Druex stated quickly. When Jian was pissed it meant someone overstepped their boundaries and was awfully disrespectful to Eros.

" You might as well do so. I'm trying to keep Eros in check. He wants to burn everything the Macallis owns to the ground. The feds caught wind of the Macallis trafficking ring in Vegas. We're being asked to deal with it delicately, so that means we may be in Vegas a bit longer," Jian replied. A tired sigh escaped him when he saw four men approaching him on his side in Las Vegas. He knew who they were and from the anger on their faces, he knew it will be another long day.

"Well, good luck with that," Druex said ending the call quickly. The job of calming Eros is not so easy. A quiet person's temper is never easy to deal with.
"I was given permission to relay everything due to some new developments," he said to the couple. The two unconsciously reached for each other, ready to comfort the other according to what they heard next. 
'I can pair them as a couple, right? Ah, I'm setting off the ship,' he asked himself. 

                                                                                   ********

Pasadena

While plans see their first phase in motion, in a home office based in an affluent mansion, a man nearing forty sat in an armchair diligently fielding calls for his boss. This wasn't something new to him as he was Josef Macallis's aide for over fifteen years. Kyle Lanley knew every dirty secret of the family and the lengths the powerful magnate went to so he could acquire all his riches. The current situation was child's play. 
On the coffee table before him was a well-written script to counter the slander the public have been throwing their way. The article about placing the young miss in a bad light was a good move when Min Hanjool is currently in hot water but they can easily turn the tables. Using the basic route of swaying the public, he had a few people make concerned yet justifiable comments under that article. When the homophobic article surfaced, he placed doubtful commenters. In the midst of conspiracy theorists and those who wish to breed more chaos, the white knights gain the heart of the public. 

It all went beautifully.

The Macallis's name was buried. 

As he was choosing the best media house to grant an exclusive interview, his phone rang obnoxiously in the quiet of the office. His boss has yet to come down to start his day so it was clear to Kyle his day had to start earlier. The number was labeled as unknown and that made him frown. Most of their contacts were saved on his phone which means this caller was a stranger and awfully rude to call so early in the morning. 
Kyle sighed. He can only be courteous to this person. There might be an opportunity for a great connection.

"Lanley. Aide to Chariman Macallis. How can I help you?" he answered curtly.

"Mr. Langley. This is Anthony Pascal of Pascal Premier Company. It is urgent that I speak with Chairman Macallis." 

Kyle raised a contemptuous eyebrow at the man's hurried request. How did this man acquire their contact? How urgent was his issue to call his boss before working hours? These middle-tier companies think they are at the same level as the Macallis. 

"Chairman Macallis has yet to start his business day. Since it's urgent as you say, you can leave a message and he will return your call," Kyle replied firmly.

"I need to speak with him now. After all, it's because of his daughter that my son is detained at the moment. Get him on the line NOW!" All signs of noble bearing left Anthony Pascal upon hearing that reply he often give to low-class folks. His image was declining by the minute. The neighbors who witness his son being arrested are already spreading the news of this disgrace. If his son wasn't so weak-willed he wouldn't know who instigated all this attempted murder crap.

"How dare you call the chairman for something so foolish. Whatever your child did has nothing to do with us. Figure it out yourself!" Kyle ended the call abruptly, cursing the man and his son for their idiocy.
Even after the blatant rejection, Pascal called two more times before giving up. Scoffing at the idiot's attempts, Kyle returned to his duties. 

"What do you ..... your..... I.... -da"

"Shut... Why would..."

Bits and pieces of an explosive argument filtered through the doors of the office. Kyle sat up and listened carefully. Rolling his eyes, he got to his feet and approached the door. Seconds after opening it, Josef Macallis stalked in with a severe expression on his face with his wife trailing behind him hurling insults and guilt-inducing words. To him as an aide to a high-profile man Chairman Macallis, scenes like this were part of his daily life. Silently he tried to deduct what the woman wanted this time.

"It's your duty as her father to save her image. They are asking for help. They're her fiance's friends. If you help them, then they will definitely owe us. Why are you so fucking stubborn and cold-hearted?!" the wife yelled.

Macallis spun around and fiercely glared at her. "You have no say in what I do. Since you're feeling quite charitable why don't you go throw your name around? I don't give a shit what those leeches want because there are no business ties to Alsworth. I can't stand the man. Go with your daughter and fix her problems. Get the fuck out!"

Face red from anger and embarrassment, his wife gritted her teeth and swiftly raised her hand to strike him across the face but he was faster. Macallis caught her wrist and tightened his grip. "Don't push me, Naomi. You can easily be replaced," he said in a deep menacing voice. 
Her eyes widen in disbelief at the thought of losing everything she acquired through her marriage. It wasn't a secret that she was the second wife and her husband still carried a torch for his first wife who left him. She thought bearing a child for him will solidify her position but she gave birth to a girl who wanted nothing to do with the company and was not quite ambitious. Pulling her hand away, she quickly left the office, thinking of ways to keep those four families under her thumb. Retrieving her phone to call her daughter, a call came in suddenly. A frown marred Mrs. Macallis's face. 

Melissa Alsworth. Chairman Alsworth's wife.

Their husbands may not foster a relationship in business but they can. If Sherida does marry the heir to that Alsworth gold mine, her position as Mrs. Macallis will be solid. 
"Melissa. I'm sorry for the abrupt end to our conversation. It seems like things are bigger than they seem. I have to tell Sherida about Crein's disappearance. She will be devastated."

"Thanks for your help in advance, Naomi. I'm going insane inside this house, I can't even leave. Christopher is not acting like the welfare of his child is at stake. No one will tell me anything. I don't even believe a word my husband said. My Crein is the sweetest guy. He can't even hurt a fly." Melissa vented all her frustration in that call. Naomi stayed silent and only offered small words of support with the call recording in the background. As the woman offload her grievances onto Naomi's shoulders, she was giving her new friend material to tie their children together. 

After they find her son, of course.

Back in the office, Lanley carefully asked his boss for the reason for that spat. He frowned when he heard the news.
"No wonder Pascal called and spoke outlandishly. That's their problem. We have no connection nor obligation to them. I suggest we move up your exclusive interview since it is known HW Financial group was affiliated with us."

Macallis nodded in agreement with his secretary's plan. It wasn't seen on the surface but there have been some small ripples under the pristine facade since Min Hanjool's screw-up. It took time and effort to set up what they built over the years, moving to Vegas solved one problem but brought up another.
"How are things in Vegas?" he asked as he sat behind his desk.

"We were able to annex three influential gangs to start our base of operation. I had our people place themselves in the gang to get things moving. I ordered them to get more information about the true powerhouses and a new source."

"Good. This disruption has angered a few of our clients since we won't be getting products from the East anytime soon. Make sure those below us keep things low. Did Hanjool notice our plans?" Macallis knew he couldn't let go of that business. he can earn a few million in under fifteen minutes without any heavy lifting. How can anyone give up such a lucrative business?

Lanley scoffed in disdain at the mentioned party. A look of superiority coated his face as he spoke his next words. "We are his foothold in the US so his trust in us is unfathomable. He wouldn't think that we cut ties with him since his share of the business is still operating. Besides, they have more things to worry about. Someone is pressuring his family in Korea. With the update I received from South Korea's Information Exchange, HW Financial Group has sold many shares to stay afloat, the investors who were thinking of the company's foundation jumped ship to the new major shareholder."

Macallis laughed maliciously when he figured out the outcome of Hanjool's situation. "That means someone in Korea wants him to drown and is slowly sinking his company to buy it over as theirs. I wonder who was so bold. This will tie him up for a while."

"That and his monetary situation. The eyes I placed on his mistress and bastard child reported their unfortunate situations of being cut off. Yet, the legal wife is still living in luxury even after Hanjool secluded her from everything." Lanley found this strange as he reported it but didn't give it much thought.

"Was that secretary of his notified? That Cho guy is more like a dedicated child to Hanjool than a simple secretary." Macallis asked this because he knew how one must keep their image, even if it's with a mistress. Their power and wealth must be shown at all times. 

"They didn't delve into it. What's interesting is the first son. The so-called useless trash was the one who cleared the bastard's misfortune at a hotel he was staying at. Wasn't it known between us how Hanjool really felt about the kid? He basically sold the child to us to gain a connection. How did the waste gain such a reputation without his father's help?"

Lanley's questions brought back the embarrassment that the kid dealt him. Macallis didn't care if Sherida was rejected but that pretty boy had the guts to claim that he was gay in order to get out of an engagement. It was a slap to the face and embarrassment to the image he carried. Even though his family name is somewhat clear, the fact that his name was used in a slandering article and then the additional homophobic article, he was still resentful of Min Jaejin. "It is strange. Keep an eye on that kid and report to me of that daughter of mine. It seems like her privileges are making her bold."

It's best to cut away from that family.

                                                                       ********

Scheming. Backstabbing. Plots of murder. Blackmail. Manipulation.

A lot of scenarios were taking place behind the glitz and glamor of the public. It won't be a stretch to say it was all a butterfly effect due to the meeting of two young men on one faithful night. A simple game of revenge uncovered a lot of opportunities for many parties. It also led to once-unseen freedom for some.
 With all of this happening around him, Min Jaejin was currently ending his first training session. His dedicated guards and assistant also used his training time as theirs to watch over him and do their own training regiment. 

"Well done, young master. With the results of today's session, I can proceed with adjusting the plan. How was it for you?" The woman before him was dressed in a simple white lightweight tracksuit with her name embroidered in blue under the Delacourde's gold insignia. Her name was Angel, a Special Ops  Veteran and a retired commander under the Delacourde Seal. She took the job of training the newcomers into the family to help them adjust to their new life. Angel took great pride in this because of her friendship with Arianna Delacourde. She believed her friend was a great role model for the new members.
Min Jaejin was the second partner in this generation's main family. A special one because he's the partner of Eros, the walking contradiction.

"It wasn't as strenuous as I thought training has to be. It was great. I feel more energetic," he commented with a soft smile.

In Angel's eyes, this young master was rather delicate and can bring out anyone's protective instinct but after this session, she saw his hidden strength. He didn't complain and he pushed himself to certain levels to figure out his limit. 
"That's good to know. This will be part of your daily routine. For your afternoon session, we will discuss what you are most comfortable with in terms of self-defense..." She stopped when she saw a sign of confusion on Jaejin's face. 
"The second young master has explained to you of our world and you have seen parts of it. You are now the partner to the second heir of an empire that keeps on growing. He's also a cyber genius according to his peers and those in authority, the CEO of a dominating company. When those who greed after what others create they will try anything to get it. You are his partner, his weakness. He won't always be at your side, nor your guards. The guards are your shields. What will you do when your shields are broken?" Her words were stern and straight to the point which Jaejin appreciated. The movements around him were reported so he had a greater form of understanding of his new life. For this, he was grateful that Eros decided not to coddle him entirely.

"Protect myself and survive," he answered firmly. His answer was also resolute. He now had one more person to live for. He no longer treated death as a welcome reprieve. Death was to be respected now that he can live the life that he wants. He can't be a hinder for Eros.

"Good! To do that, you have to choose a hidden weapon suited to your liking and learn a few combat and escape techniques. Are you okay with that?" Angel asked in a more comforting tone.

"Yes, ma'am."

"I'll see you this afternoon. Have a good day, young master." She slightly bowed to him and took her leave, not giving Jaejin the chance to stop her actions.

He sighed with a wry smile on his lips. "I truly have to get used to being a respected person. It's new but I can handle it." He cheered himself on a few seconds more before leaving the private training room. 

His new home was at the hotel he confronted his half-brother, a penthouse that is to be shared between him and Eros. After getting over the shock and revelations of his attack at his past apartment, his new reality finally became clear.

He is now playing house with his first boyfriend.

His face turned red at the thought of waking next to Eros every day, sharing a meal together, and having lazy days and weekends - Jaejin was looking forward to it all. 

"There you are, young master. Master Eros sent a few gifts for you. They are upstairs at the moment. I sent a reminder to Mr. Kirk of your lunch meeting and your new class schedule has been sent over."

"Thank you, Isla." 
Clearing his throat to dissolve the awkwardness of being caught grinning like a loon, Jaejin took the initiative to lead the way out of the hotel's gym and up to the penthouse. The presence of the entourage caught the eyes of early-rising guests, few staff members knew of Jaejin while others place him as one of many K-pop stars visiting the US. 
New to the stares, Jaejin quickened his pace, amusing his guards and secretary all at once.

Reaching the penthouse, Isla entered first with him trailing after. The first thing he saw was a simple yet elegant arrangement of yellow and black roses in a slender crystal vase. Jaejin was mesmerized by its display. The six yellow roses were taller than the black rose they surrounded. A white ribbon held them together with a card dangling from it. 
He smiled when he saw the cursive writing knowing it was Eros's. "Start your new beginning with the happiness I feel now that you're mine. Be happy, my sweet Jin." He read the note over and over until he burned it to memory. Touching the roses, he felt giddy. It was the first time he received flowers. It wasn't popular that men to receive flowers but he loved them. 

"There's more," Isla called out to him softly, not wanting to ruin his special moment. 

Beside the vase were a device case and a small gift bag on it. More curious about the case, he reached for it and opened it to see what it held. A laugh escaped him leaving traces of a pleased smile on his lips. It was a digital drawing tablet. He currently had one but it couldn't handle his workload. Jaejin only mentioned this in passing when Eros was checking out some of his work as an amateur animator and digital artist. 
"So sweet," he murmured when he took note of his existing work on the new device.
The next gift wasn't from Eros, he can tell by the hurried handwriting on the card. 

'Thank you for staying by his side. Welcome to the family. Your in-law, Ares.'

"Ares!! That's Eros's twin. Why... I mean... this is unexpected," Jaejin said, flustered by the comment and the gift. A floral vine ear cuff and a pair of black diamond studs.

"I'm not too sure either. He's unpredictable with his actions. I recall he randomly sends jewelry to his family when inspiration hits or he designs a new collection. All the jewelry master Eros wears was personally crafted for him by master Ares."

"What a frighteningly successful family," Jaejin uttered in pure amazement. The ear cuff wasn't overly feminine but designed to be elegant and radical at the same time. The floral vines will be a visual of a growing plant on his ear. It was made of silver which can blend in with any outfit. The pair of studs was intricately designed. A crescent moon with black diamonds dotted from top to bottom in sizes small to large. When the light flickered on the jewels it reminded him of stars flickering in and out making it hard to keep track of them. He liked the concept very much.

"Isla. Help me contact him. A gift such as this must be thanked for. A call will be suited."

"Now, young master?" She was surprised that he was taking the initiative to socialize. 

"Yes. He sent me a gift that mainly family members receive. I can't turn a blind eye to that. It's best we do it now before my confidence and energy plummet," he returned with pleading eyes.

Isla turned sharply on her heel to hide the amused smile on her face. "Yes, young master."

Jaejin gathered his gifts and carried them to the main sitting area like his precious treasures. While waiting for Isla, he took a trip to the kitchen and stood in front of the fully stocked fridge. "Fruit juice. Water. Yogurt. Veggies. Eggos. Ah, there's nothing to eat." He grumbled as his eyes passed over the contents of the fridge before moving to the freezer section. His eyes brightened. He quickly took the Haagen Daaz ice cream bar and settled at the center island. "Icecream for breakfast is the best."

"Young master?! The call is connected." Isla called out in search of him and found him in the kitchen.

Jaejin frowned and looked at the ice cream bar in his hand. "Please wait for me," he whispered to it and turned to Isla.

She passed the phone over to him without saying a thing. He was about to put it to his ear when he noticed the moving image. At first, he thought it was the live photo he had of Eros but debunked that. The moving image was of Ares Delacourde, the famed third prince and twin of his boyfriend.

"Well hello to you too, brother-in-law!" 

"WOW!" 

Ares laughed at Jaejin's expression and greeting. It always amuses him when people see him for the first time after being around his brother.

"Uncanny, right?"

"Yes! If you held a stern expression I may never tell you apart," Jaejin commented still enthralled by the duplicate features on Ares. How strong are the genes of their parents? They created exotically handsome men times two. Eros held the cold, fearful, and handsome look while Ares held the charismatic, playful, and handsome side. His amber eyes were slightly darker than Eros's, making it look mysterious. His hair was low cut and neatly kept. The absence of his curls made his eyes the focus. The man was a walking danger sign.

"I can't keep his demeanor for long it makes me uneasy for some reason. Anyway, this call is unexpected. I was thinking big brother will leave introductions for when he brings you to Boston. All we got is your name and age when he mentioned you. So selfish that one." Ares began his tirade on his brother, leaving Jaejin to gush about how much the guy loved his twin.

"Well, I wanted to thank you for the gift. It was unexpected but welcomed."

"I'm glad you liked it. The design came to me when Rose informed us of having a partner. We've all been waiting for that news and grew worried. Ahhhh, we tend to coddle him a lot because of his personality but we learn to let go... a bit."

"You mean his observant nature? I find it cute. He...."

"Wait. You find his logical, straightforward, bluntly honest personality cute?" Ares interrupted him for a quick clarification. He looked at the puzzled expression on Jaejin's face and was mind blown. How can he alone hear this acceptance of their brother? "Can you hold for a sec? Don't hang up!"

"Umm, sure." Jaejin placed the phone against the fruit bowl and returned to his ice cream bar when the video went on hold.
He didn't know how long Ares had him on hold but it took him a short time to reach halfway through the ice cream bar.

"I'm back!!"

"Ah!" The abrupt entrance startled him causing the ice cream to slip from his hand and onto the counter. 

             "This is why I always say to speak at a moderate volume."

"Sorry."

     "Awww, he looks like he's going to cry. Rose is going to skin you alive, Reese."

"He isn't going to cry. That's the look of happiness being crushed. I should know. I'm an expert at these things."

              "That doesn't sound any better."

The two new voices shocked Jaejin even more. He turned his attention back to the call, to see two additional video calls. One had the image of a teenage girl sitting way too close to the camera with a curious yet ecstatic expression on her face. Her green eyes were actually sparkling. Her fair skin was smooth and her face was delicate. She was a fairylike beauty. This must be Rejeanne. Eros described her as the typical modern princess that needs to be watched over. 
The next image was of a man probably a few years older than him. His hair and eyes were dark, and his features were gorgeous and perfectly aligned to make a godly model. Though his expression was stern, his eyes showed every emotion he was feeling at the moment. Lucifer Delacourde. In Eros's words, a dark prince, the epitome of his name, endearing and magnetic on the surface but devilish underneath. 'If crossed, both sides of him will truly be the devil incarnate.'

"New brother, meet your sister-in-law, Rejeanne, and the older brother, Lucifer. Now tell them what you told me. Go on! Tell them!." Ares was pushing him to repeat his words, clueless to the shock he dealt to Jaejin.

"Oh. Excuse me." Jaejin quickly got to his feet and bowed to the newcomers. "It's a pleasure to meet you Brother Lucifer and sister Rejeanne. I am Min Jaejin."

"He's so cool. Their customs are so breathtaking," Rejeanne squealed.

"Welcome, Jaejin. Rejeanne, say your words." Lucifer's voice was steady and warm as he spoke, fitting as the older brother's.

"Oh, sorry, Luke. Welcome Jaejin."

"Hey! What about me? You didn't give me a formal greeting." Ares looked quite put out. He was actually pouting. 
Rejeanne shook her head with a look of disgust.  "Are you really an adult?"

"Shut up!"

"Enough both of you. Jaejin, Reese said you mentioned something that was mindblowing. His example of mind-blowing differs from time to time. Do you mind telling us?"

Jaejin was carried away by the different types of accented voices. Each tone of French had its own cadence for each person. It felt comforting for some reason. "Hmmm, what was it? Oh! I said Eros's personality was cute. His honesty is totally welcomed. When he tries to clarify things a cute frown forms between his brows and those soft mutterings as he tries to put new information together, are quite cute."
 - A screenshot was taken-  -A screenshot was taken.-  -A screenshot was taken-

An awkward silence was formed. Rejeanne's eyes darted everywhere, Ares was grinning like a loon and Lucifer had an embarrassed look on his face. Jaejin didn't know how animated he look when he spoke of Eros. His entire being looked bright when he talked about their brother. They wanted to capture that moment. Someone loved their brother and isn't afraid to show it. They were happy and truly so.

"Apologies for that. We are very protective of Eros even though he can care for himself. The world isn't kind to those who are different and Rose is a clear example of different. I wish for both of you to be happy and know that we support the two of you. You not only have our family supporting you but the four families also." Lucifer was true to his words. He dotes on his siblings and wants the best for them. Eros has found what he wants to do and now has a partner he wants to spend his life with. He will support his little brother no matter what.

"Thank you." Jaejin felt Lucifer's words. He couldn't help but tear up. Someone besides his mother accepted him for who he was. He experienced how hateful society can be towards him but now he witnessed the different side. 

"Hey! Can I add you to my friend list? It's unfair only Ares has your contact." Rejeanne asked to chase away the somber mood.

"I only got it today. Let it settle in my list until you can get it."

"It's numbers, not a pet."

"Why do you have a reply for everything? Luke, can you see how disrespectful she is to me? She doesn't even talk back to Rose." Ares was now complaining to the oldest while Rejeanne had a smug look on her face. Jaejin kept quiet and watched on, highly amused by their antics. Siblings are so interesting from an outsider's perspective.

"She does this because you're easy to agitate. Jeannie, stop teasing him. You will mess with his mood. He has a new collection on the line. Behave."

"Fine."

"Thanks, Luke!" Ares now had a smug smile on his face and Rejeanne decided to ignore him for the moment. Lucifer's stern expression broke for a while when he smiled at the two then returned to the former.

"You guys are amazing. I don't have siblings so this is new to me," Jaejin commented.

"What about that Neil guy, I read about," Rejeanne asked.

"You know about him?" Jaejin frowned, not because she knew of his half-brother but the way she did.

"Yup. A tabloid came out an hour or so ago about a young man with questionable background leaving your family's main house. Photos of him were posted side-by-side with your pops. Lots of hearsay from sources were posted also. The conclusion is that he's the bastard son of Min Hanjool." Rejeanne didn't hold back because it was a common thing.

"If it's a tabloid that released such news then someone is behind it. Min Hanjool won't let the world know of his indiscretions. Neil lived the life of a chaebol but his presence wasn't known by the main family in Korea. With this new development maybe he will give up on me entirely and use Neil as a scapegoat." The last part was said lowly but the trio caught a few words of his statement.

"Seems like it's getting messy over there," Ares commented with a mysterious smile on his face.

"Knowing big brother, his hands will be quick to snatch that opportunity. I'm just miffed that he's keeping this game private. Ahhh, Jaejin, you're so lucky to be involved," Rejeanne said aloud. 

Jaejin was able to keep up with their comments and was learning how this family works. "I'm just surprised the simple game Rose suggested turned out so huge."

"And disturbed a few cockroaches. I have to end our meeting here everyone. Nice seeing you, little brats. Jeannie send Mama and Father my love. Ares take it easy and don't forget to eat. Jaejin, once again, welcome to the family. I'm looking forward to meeting you officially." Lucifer quickly ended his call with a soft smile. 

"I haven't grasped the time difference between us so I will end the call now. I still have to get ready for my day."

"Oh. That's right. I was about to head out also when Reese called. Let's swap info!" Rejeanne shared her number and social media accounts and Jaejin did the same. Not wanting Ares to feel left out, he gave him his additional contacts. 

"Bye, everyone. Nice meeting you."

"Bye, Jaejin."

"See you soon, in-law!"

Ending the video call, Jaejin sat in the post-harmonious bliss of talking to new people and being accepted for a few minutes. He couldn't stop the smile that was growing larger on his face. Isla came into this scene. "All went well?" she asked.

"Yes. I met his little sister and older brother."

"WHAT! You met the current patriarch?! Does Master Eros know? Did they interrogate you?" Isla was beside herself. The plan everyone knew pertaining to young master Jaejin's debut to the family was a family get-together at the main house in Boston then the annual dinner. Eros was being careful because of Jaejin's transition.

"They were really nice and welcomed me to the family. They are really energetic," he replied with a laugh.

"I have to...."

"Don't fuss, Isla. I will tell him. Can you fix a light breakfast for me? I will take it to my studio. Thanks for everything." He stopped her actions and had her calm down. It seems like this family has their own quirks too. 

"Yes, young master."

Jaejin left the kitchen and made his way to the master bedroom. On his trek, he messaged Eros. 

'I met your brothers and sister today.'

An incoming call notification popped up within seconds. Jaejin couldn't hold back his laugh and answered. 

"What did they do?"

From the serious tone with that question, it seems like Eros is the one who keeps them in line.

                                                                        **********

The morning was spent summarizing his video call with the Delacourde siblings to Eros, finishing up some artwork to post on his media page, and finalizing his schedules between school, his business, and daily training. Seeing how busy his days would be, he felt fulfilled. Jaejin even made sure to have free days to spend with his friend Adam. All were balanced. 

During their phone conversation, Eros enlightened him about his mother's situation. Hearing the report of his mother's murder was to be carried out, dampened his mood and spiked his anger. Eros was able to calm him down by telling him the plan to remove his mother and Ji-hun from that environment. 
It turns out just as Rejeanne said. Eros was using the scandal to have Eun-Kyung leave the Min family with her reputation intact and with some 'blame' for certain future incidents on Tammy. 

After a morning filled with so many energetic people, Jaejin was feeling drained but he shook off his tiredness and prepared for the meet-up with Adam and his afternoon classes. 

On his way to the restaurant Adam favored, the man of the hour called him. "I'm on my way."

"The crazy one is here. Let's change restaurants," Adam said quickly.

"Oh? Is that so? As I recalled, she was never of importance to us. Why should we be bothered by her presence? I'm on my way. Find us good seats."

Adam chuckled, "You got it, boss."

Jaejin was truly close to the restaurant, less than ten minutes away. He informed Isla about Sherida's presence at the restaurant and passed the message on to the guards assigned to him for the day. "I hope she doesn't act up," he said under his breath. He was ready to have her out of his life permanently. 

The restaurant Adam loved since he moved to Pasadena for college was a quaint open-air restaurant that was established during the pandemic years. When businesses were closing, the owner adopted the open-air concept from restaurants overseas and opened it on schedule for the essential workers near them. When everyone regained their freedom but was still wary of being close to people, the restaurant became busier than ever. 
Another reason for its popularity was its location. It's positioned opposite the commercial district, and separated by a manmade park. Walking up one flight of stairs and into the dining area was ideal and very charming. One can have a view of both nature and business while eating. The natural colors of the bohemian design also played a role in the customers' comfort.

Jaejin and his entourage made the walk from the parking lot to the restaurant within minutes garnering attention as they passed. His guard Latis led the way in after confirming where Adam chose to sit. 

"Who is that?"

"Celebrities eat here? Is he an actor or something?"

"Look at how dangerous those guards look"

"He's so hot. Quick take a picture."

"Let's go closer."

At the center of the dining area, Sherida and her friends were having an impromptu lunch date. Sherida saw this as a chance to show off. She wanted to see the look of envy and jealousy in their eyes when they see the type of man she had on her arm and how he spoils her. They were all questioning her about the article and wanted to shift things onto her accomplishments, with that in mind she invited Noir to their lunch date. Sherida gloated to her friends when he replied positively, showing her friends how pampered she was.

"Since he's gay now...."

"He isn't gay. It's just a ploy. It won't be long before he gives up that stubborn streak and comes begging my father and me. His family is in tatters now. No one can save them except us. His father's company is new in the US, no one will lend them a hand. That company is like a prized beef for anyone with money to buy it over. If they want to survive won't it be logical to hook on to someone with a solid foundation? That's us!" Cutting off her friend's comment on Jaejin, Sherida placed all the facts before them to let it be known that she will always get what she wants. 
After that modeling contract issue and being humiliated by that slut, her so-called friends were finding ways to lower her hierarchy. They now see a way to take her crown but she won't let them.

"You're right. So how have your classes been? You missed a few days. Your teacher is awfully strict," one asked. The girl didn't bother to show Sherida some face by raising her head to speak. She kept on eating, wanting to move this outing along.

Sherida saw this but let it pass. "That woman called and gave me a lecture. If I don't attend the afternoon class, I will be removed."

Her friends frowned and one spoke up, "Isn't that the business class with Min Jaejin? He hasn't been to school in a while, did they remove him too?"

"No! He switched to online classes. I overheard his friend talking a while back."

Rolling her eyes, she couldn't understand how the conversation went back to that little puppet. Opening her mouth to change the subject, her surroundings got a bit louder and rowdy. Displeased by their behavior, she turned to the source where it was louder. She wanted to know why they were so loud and to complain to the manager. Her friends turned to where the clamor is. 

"We're sorry but the young master isn't a celebrity and he's here to simply dine." At the sound of the woman's voice a few left but others still wanted a photo of the 'young master.'
There was a momentary pause then loud squeals erupted followed by a flurry of activity. The people truly didn't care if the man was a celebrity. They were simply appreciating his good looks and stylish figure. It was human nature to admire the beauty.

"You're welcome. I must go now or I will be late for my class."

Sounds of weak protest reached the girls' ears but it was the guy's voice that had them dumbstruck. Sherida was the only one to truly confirm who it was. Her friends heard Jaejin speak a few times but they were simple one worded answers. When the small crowd dissipate everything was revealed. 
Talking animatedly to the woman who previously spoke was Min Jaejin. 

Min Jaejin who was known to be the cold, unsociable, hoodie-lover hot guy on campus. 

Where was his long hair?

How much is that outfit he's wearing? It looks expensive!

Why does he look like an entirely new person?

Was he always this good-looking?

The girls were all dumbstruck by the revelation as they kept their eyes on Jaejin. He made his way two tables away from them, meeting up with his friend. The woman talked to them for a few seconds before leaving with the guards to take up seats near him.

"What is up with that transformation?" 

They all began to gush about him, ignoring the fact that this was the guy Sherida claimed. Didn't she have a new toy to play with?

Sherida on the other hand was in the midst of her vision for a perfect life. When she saw the new look and temperament of Jaejin her plans of sitting and waiting were demolished. She opted for using her family's riches and sincerity to win him over. With his dazzling good looks, he can be the new face of the Macallis company. Her father can even allow him to take over his father's company and groom him to be the perfect CEO under their name. His business infamy will open doors for her as his wife. Sponsorships. Contracts. They can have it all if they use him the right way. 
What she had to do now, was get him on their side. Preying on one's weakness always works out. 

Abruptly, she rose to her feet attracting her friends' attention and a few nearby patrons. Using her phone camera as a mirror, she quickly redid her lipstick and then made her way to Jaejin's table.

Her friends rolled their eyes at her soon-to-be disgrace. They had to admit, her tenacity is commendable but to face a guy who rejected her one too many times was plain foolish.

"This won't end well." 

     "Didn't he send her a message about his preferences?

"When will she give up?"

      "What about the Noir guy?"

Her friends' hushed inquiry didn't reach her ears but their waiting stares were felt on her back. Sherida held her head higher and made a display of her walking. One of them retrieved her phone from the table and quickly entered her Tik Tok account. This account had more followers than Sherida and was under a name unknown to her. Only the three around her knew about it. 
"She will find out!" one hissed lowly, surprised at her friend's actions. 

"I don't care. We aren't really friends. She just wants a fawning audience, my energy can go to better things. Plus, with this, she will know how idiotic she has been when Jaejin rejects her... again!!! Talk about a wake-up call." Selecting the live button, she made sure the title of the session was positive.
                                             'Fourth or fifth times a charm, right?'

Sherida was now beside Jaejin. His back was to her but when he felt someone too close to him and the shift in Adam's expression, he flinched and looked behind him. He put up a guarded front, at the same time, Latis rushed to his side and blocked Sherida's hand from touching his young master. 

"Apologies, ma'am but the young master is occupied at the moment," Latis said clearly. His tone was firm and sent a sliver of warning to her.

She frowned, putting up a facade of pure confusion and disbelief. "I'm sorry. I'm Sherida Macallis. You must be new. I'm Young Master Jaejin's fiance." She swallowed the bitterness that formed when she uttered the words Young Master.

"I am new but there's no record of you, ma'am. To my knowledge, that's not possible," he continued. 

"Jaejin! Please. Talk to me. How can you sit there and embarrass me like this? Your father wouldn't be pleased with this development. He's already upset with your previous behavior." That was her performance as a society belle. Her best one yet.

"Latis. It's okay. This won't take long." The mellow voice of Jaejin sending away that man pleased Sherida greatly.

When the man moved, she got her first up-close look at the new Jaejin. When he got to his feet, she felt that he became taller somehow. His dark eyes were brighter, his complexion was healthier and his body gained a bit of weight. The presence he was now exuding wasn't weak as before. Where and how did he gain so much confidence that it was like a shield for him?

"How can I help you Sherida, you can drop the sweet princess act." Gone was the mellow pleasant voice. It was replaced by indifference.

"Why are you acting so stubborn? It has been decided by our families that we are to be married. It's best if you give in." She tried the imploring act while stating a few lies and truth. Everything was out in the open so he can't deny their engagement.

"I fail to remember when I agreed to an engagement. The first I ever heard of such plans is when you ambushed me after one of my classes. Do you know how unsettling it was to have a stranger calling you darling hubby? It's still unsettling that you are pushing something on another party when they don't want it. Are you okay?" Each word was heard by the surrounding patrons, as for the ongoing live session, many comments were filling the screen. 

"You have no choice in this. You will be helping your family a great deal. I'm sure you know how much help your dear father needs right now." She came closer and gave him a coquettish smile.

A grin lit up Jaejin's face. To everyone, he looked delighted but to Sherida, it was a different look. It was mocking. He was mocking her with that smile and emotionless eyes. "Do you think so? Does he needs MY help right now?" he asked slowly.

"You're his son. The heir to HW Financial, of course, your help is needed. Stop this farce..."

"Oye! Stop your woe-is-me act. It's annoying as fuck!" The rude interruption from such a sweet guy was shocking. What threw them for a loop was the ugly sneer on Sherida's face and the condescending demeanor she now exudes.
"Since you are adamant about joining the Min Family, let me update you with the latest developments. It seems Daddy dearest isn't so accommodating with you lately. I guess you didn't get the memo. Isla!" 
Each word held varying degrees of mockery and disdain as he spoke. He didn't show but those close to him knew how he truly felt.

Jaejin was pissed off. 

His words will get sharper and meaner as time goes by if the person who pissing him off is still doing so. That person right now was Sherida. Her chasing, her schemes, the delusion she held him in, it was all pissing him off.

"Yes, young master." The woman who accompanied him came forward. 

"You.." Sherida recognized the woman as one of the nurses in the surveillance report. Before she can confront the woman, Jaejin's words stopped her.

"Call Min Hanjool and put him on speaker!"

His order was clear.

Isla dialed the number she had on a blacklist for surveillance.

Everyone around them was invested in this lunchtime drama. They stayed silent and listened to the harsh rings on the phone. After four long rings, the call was picked up.

"What the fuck do you want? You must be calling to ask for forgiveness after that fucking stunt you pulled, you piece of crap. Do you know what you cost me? Why aren't you saying anything? Did disown you turn you into a retarded mute?"

Jaejin's face showed no sign of affection nor reaction to the harsh insults and questions from his dear father. He kept his cold gaze on Sherida to see her reaction. As expected she was upset that it wasn't going her way and not the bigger picture. What a delusional child!

"Min Hanjool! I didn't call you to come back to that place of yours. I have someone in front of me who has a great interest in your company. After all, you and her father had a lot to talk about once upon a time. Since she's so willing to marry someone from the Min family, why not YOUR SON Neil? He is your only son after all."

"HOW DARE YOU MOCK ME, YOU PIECE OF SHIT! I STILL HAVE YOUR MOTHER HERE! YOU DARE DISRESPECT ME! HER LIFE IS IN MY HANDS! I OWN HER!"

Jaejin's gaze slowly moved from Sherida to the phone beside his face. In a cold unsettling voice, he spoke to his father directly.

"Touch my mother and it will be your last breath, Min Hanjool."

Isla ended the call quickly as she was mindful of the young master's current state. Having two triggers present will affect him emotionally. His words to his father were something Master Eros will say if pushed.

"You've heard for yourself, ma'am. The young master is no longer of the Min family, please stop your advances or the authorities will be involved. If you persist, your past creative choices will be exposed and given to authorities. You wouldn't want that, would you?" Isla said firmly.

It was all there. Everyone heard it. Even a fool can tell by the explosive anger and scorn from Min Hanjool that he had no love nor care for Jaejin. Just like that, her fantasy life was gone. She only had her image left.
"How dare you embarrass me this way?! Wasn't lying to me that you're gay enough?" 

Murmurs began at the mention of him lying that he was gay. A few began to laugh at being rejected that way. It was ten times more effective online. At that moment 'advice' was given to Sherida to simply walk away and cover her face for life.

Jaejin raised an eyebrow in mockery. He slowly looked her over. From the tips of her toes to the crown of her head. He relaxed his face and smiled. 
"Oh, I'm definitely gay."

Unknown to him, Jaejin ruined Sherida Macallis's entire social life. The live stream was in a frenzy. Being rejected in so many ways in the span of ten minutes was a record. On top of her acting being defective was another record-breaking moment. What else can possibly happen?

"Sherida? Baby? How do you know the young master?" A confused voice proved them all wrong. Striding towards them was a man with dark and mysterious looks, who had his eyes on her but moved to Jaejin.

"NOIR!" Sherida spun on her heels and faced the newcomer. She was trying to come up with an excuse but had to settle with a dumbfounded look on her face at her lover's next words. She has yet to understand his previous words.

"Apologies. I don't think you've reached my sector as yet. I am Noir Guerra, of the Guerra Family in Boston. It's an honor to meet you, young master. Welcome to the family." Noir bowed respectfully before Jaejin, who nod in acknowledgment and offered his right hand. Noir firmly shook his hand and went to his side. The etiquette was taught during his training. It was a sign of respect to the affiliated families under the seal.

"WHAT THE FUCK IS THIS? Noir what are you doing?" Her shriek was ear-numbing.

"Why are you acting like this? I am greeting my boss. I can't explain it to you but this is young master Jaejin," he said matter of factedly. He looked genuinely embarrassed even if he was acting. It felt good to end this job.

"WHAT?!!!!"

Sherida was currently broken.