The recording session lasted about an hour, and everyone couldn't stop praising Ira. In all her years of singing, this was her shortest and most flawless recording session. The song was filled with emotion, touching listeners' hearts as if expressing the simple wish of a girl who only wanted to be with the one she loved, asking for nothing extravagant.

Ira blushed, shyly accepting the compliments, but her eyes would sneak glances at Tawan only to meet a gentle gaze now brimming with tenderness. There was something different in the way Tawan looked at her today, something deeper. Tawan's smile carried an undefined pride mixed with increased affection.

Under the weight of that gaze, Ira felt her face grow even hotter while her pulse quickened. Why was Tawan looking at her so strangely today? Was it because Ira had realized her own feelings and was reacting this way, or was it because of the kiss this morning?

Ira lightly patted her cheeks, trying to compose herself. No, she couldn't act like a teenager in love for the first time. She had to remain calm. She didn't yet know what Tawan thought of her. Now that she understood her own desires, she had to try harder to win Tawan over.

"Was my singing good?" - Ira stepped closer to Tawan, leaning her face in and softly asking.

"It was amazing." - Tawan didn't flinch, her narrowed eyes studying Ira, curious about her intentions.

"Do you like it?"

"I do." - Tawan nodded with a small smile.

"Do you like the song, or... me?"

"Is there a difference?" - Tawan smirked.

"Hardly" - Ira straightened up, smiling mischievously. This "stone" named Tawan was indeed tough.

Tawan watched as Ira stepped back, chuckling softly. This girl would throw hints her way and then back off when Tawan didn't immediately respond. Cheeky.

"What are you laughing at?" - Ira pouted, thinking Tawan was teasing her.

"I'm laughing because you're so adorable." - Tawan said softly.

Boom! Ira felt her heart explode. Her ears turned red, and she avoided Tawan's gaze, fumbling for an excuse to leave quickly. They say that cold people flirt intensely when they do, and Ira hadn't believed it—until now. Her heart wasn't strong enough to handle Tawan flirting with her like this.

After the recording, Ira had to practice choreography. Dance was both her favorite and most exhausting activity because her health wasn't great. The demanding movements often challenged her physically, but Ira was determined. She never gave up, even if it meant pushing through pain.

Today, she practiced moves for her upcoming song. There was one particular step she struggled with, unable to capture its essence. Frustrated, Ira stayed behind to continue practicing after everyone else had left. Tawan sat quietly on the stairs, watching her with a small smile, silently cheering her on.

Tawan observed Ira's dedication, noticing her stumble at times. She wanted to step in and help but stopped when she saw the determination in Ira's eyes. Quietly, Tawan withdrew, choosing to watch from the shadows. She admired Ira's perseverance, knowing that the path to fame required great sacrifices—not just beauty or talent but also time, health, sweat, tears, and sometimes even blood.

Tawan silently marveled. She understood all too well. Behind someone's smile or success lies a long story, one that could be soaked in tears or blood. No one has the right to judge anyone else; only that person themselves has that right, for they are the ones who paid the price. All you can do is either step forward to support or silently walk away. You have no right to criticize or attribute anything to someone's efforts, whether intentional or not.

Tawan's lips curved into a smile. Ira belonged under the spotlight. She could already envision it—Ira standing before thousands, millions, glowing with the brilliance she was born for.

And Tawan... She would willingly, unwaveringly, stand behind that light and protect it—protect her. Without even realizing it, she had already made a silent vow. A vow for a lifetime.

"Yeahhhhh!"

Ira shouted after successfully completing the move she had been aiming for, jumping around in joy for overcoming yet another challenge. Her smile was radiant despite being drenched in sweat, her breathing rapid from exertion, but she felt it was all worth it. For Ira, the feeling of completing a task was truly exhilarating.

On the other side of the room, Tawan watched in quiet amusement. Without thinking, she turned away slightly, clenched her fist, and did a small, subtle "yeah" of her own. A silent victory cheer, just for Ira. Something she had never done before even for her own achievement. And yet, in this moment, Ira's success felt like her own. Tawan felt a joy unlike anything she had ever known.

"Tired?" - Tawan walked over, handing Ira a towel and a bottle of water.

"Tired but happy!" - Ira beamed as she accepted them.

"Your stamina's a bit low." - Tawan remarked honestly.

"I know. My health's been poor since childhood, and I have trouble sleeping, so..." - Ira trailed off, looking down sadly.

"Want to train with me?" - Tawan offered.

"Train?"

"Gym training. I'll be your personal trainer. Free of charge."

"But you're not allowed to get mad at me! I'm very lazy when it comes to working out!"

"It's just to help you get a little stronger, not to build six-pack abs."

"Alright! You'll be my personal trainer and my personal bodyguard!" - Ira laughed, leaning in for a hug, but Tawan stopped her by holding her forehead.

"What?" - Ira looked up, confused.

"You're all sweaty." - Tawan used it as an excuse.

"So, if I'm clean and fresh, can I hug you?" - Ira asked mischievously, batting her eyelashes.

Tawan was speechless, turning away to escape, but Ira wouldn't let her go, trailing behind with relentless questions:

"Can I hug you after I shower?"

"If I'm clean, can I hug P'Tawan?"

Repeating the same phrases over and over confused Tawan to the point where she finally relented and nodded in agreement. It wasn't until she saw the bright gleam in Ira's eyes that Tawan realized she had just shot herself in the foot, but by then, it was too late; the realization came, but it was too late.

After showering, Ira wasted no time rushing out and embracing Tawan tightly.

"What are you doing?" - Tawan asked, frozen.

"You said if I was clean, I could hug you!"

"... Are you done hugging?"

"Not yet! Just a little longer!"

Tawan licked her lips, standing still as a statue, her hands hanging limply at her sides, not knowing where to place them, her whole body stiff. Ira embraced Tawan, feeling her freeze up, and she smiled, resting her chin on Tawan's shoulder, her arms slipping inside Tawan's blazer to wrap around her slender waist. Closing her eyes, Ira tilted her head to lean against Tawan's, feeling the warmth that was uniquely Tawan's.

Her heart pounded wildly, each beat resonating in the quiet space.

And in that silence, she could hear it - Tawan's heartbeat.

Syncing.

Matching hers.

Tawan didn't expect Ira to be so bold as to slide her hands inside her blazer to hug her waist, then rest her chin on her shoulder. Tawan was particularly sensitive around her neck and ear, and with Ira's face turned towards her, breathing softly, she felt every cell in her body tremble, as if an electric current had passed through her. Something deep within her was stirring, something she couldn't quite define, her breathing became heavier, and her heart raced erratically against her chest.

"Tawan..." - Ira whispered softly, her voice like a feather brushing against Tawan's heart.

"Ira..." - Tawan's voice trembled. This was the first time anyone had been this close to her. She didn't know whether to act on instinct or maintain her composure.

"I'm here..." - Ira's sweet, soft tone like a fleeting feather caressing Tawan's ears gently.

Tawan remained silent, overwhelmed. Ira leaned closer, her lips brushing Tawan's neck—accidentally or intentionally, Tawan couldn't tell. The faint touch made her flinch.

Ira noticed Tawan's hesitation. A flicker of amusement danced in Ira's amber eyes. Then—whether by chance or by intent—her soft lips brushed against the delicate skin of Tawan's neck.

Featherlight. Fleeting.

But enough. Enough to make Tawan shudder.

Ira straightened, but her arms remained wrapped around Tawan's waist. Her gaze locked onto Tawan's deep brown eyes, a silent challenge glinting within them. She smiled, slow and deliberate.

A smile meant to ensnare.

A gaze meant to steal Tawan's heart.

And in Ira's eyes, there was only one reflection—Tawan.

But this time, Tawan raised a hand to gently push her forehead back.

"Don't tease me anymore. Let's go home." - Tawan's voice was firm, masking the internal chaos she felt.

Tawan inwardly sighed with relief, thankful that she had regained her composure in time, otherwise it would have been a big deal. She admitted to herself that her willpower was exceptionally strong, but being close to Ira sometimes made it hard for her to stay clear-headed and in control. Tonight, she would need to meditate to calm her mind, Tawan thought to herself.

Ira, still pouting in frustration, let go of Tawan. How could this person be like Tang Sanzang? With a beauty right beside her, yet she could resist Ira's allure and remain composed. Ira watched Tawan's retreating back, inwardly cursing Tawan's rationality.

"What do you want to eat?" - Tawan asked as they got into the car.

"I don't want to eat anymore." - Ira huffed.

"Why not?"

"I'm not in the mood." - Ira shot her a side-eye glare.

"It's late. Let's grab some beef noodles."

"I said I'm not hungry!"

*Growl*

Tawan raised an eyebrow, smirking at Ira's stomach.

"You might not want to eat, but your stomach disagrees. Stop being stubborn."

"Fine. Beef noodles it is. But..."

"No conditions."

"You didn't even hear me out!"

"I don't have to. I know you too well."

"Whatever! I still have a condition: after dinner, I get to sleep with you again tonight!"

...

"Please, P'Tawan! Last night I slept so well in your room. Normally, I only sleep 2-3 hours before waking up and staying up till morning..." - Ira's voice trailed off, looking forlorn.

"Fine." - Tawan relented, unable to refuse her. She understood Ira's health struggles and, truthfully, she had also slept better with Ira by her side. It was a win-win.

"Thank you!" - Ira beamed, her joy infectious.

Both of them returned to Tawan's house close to 9 PM. As the car entered the garage, they noticed another car already waiting. Tawan stepped out of the car and motioned for the other two to wait for her in the office upstairs while she escorted Ira to her room. She instructed Ira to take a shower and rest early, telling her there was no need to wait as she had work to handle. However, Ira nodded absentmindedly, but deep inside, she decided to wait for Tawan to return before going to sleep.

"Boss!" - Pey and Ace bowed to Tawan

"Have you got the results? Who is it?" - Tawan took the document from Ace and began reading intently

"The Amarin family!"

Tawan raised her head, silently processing the information, then quickly looked down to skim through Ace's report. This was part of a separate investigation she had assigned Ace a few days prior. After finishing the report, Tawan placed the tablet down and sighed. Her instincts were never wrong, but the situation had escalated beyond her expectations.

"This explains why she had to change over ten security companies and nearly fifty personnel in just six months!"

"Yes! Given the circumstances, no one else would have accepted this contract. Furthermore, if it weren't you, I don't think anyone could handle this." - Pey sighed as she bowed her head

"The bounty notices are continuing to rise on Z." - Ace handed another report to Tawan

"The amounts are staggering!" - Tawan remarked

"What should we do?" - Pey looked at Tawan, waiting for instructions

"Tell Ray to have people accept the bounty jobs and delay the process." - Tawan suggested a stalling tactic

"Yes ma'am"

"Continue investigating who in the Amarin family is behind this!"

"Yes ma'am"

"Oh, and one more thing..." - Ace hesitated

"Stammering isn't like you!" - Tawan scrutinized Ace

"It's about... Dara..."

"What about her?"

"She's been throwing tantrums, demanding to see you."

"Didn't I already arrange for her to be settled?"

"Yes, but she still insists that you come... Dara hasn't eaten for days now!"

"Did you tell her I'm busy?"

"I did! But... - Ace glanced at Tawan, sighed, and then mustered up the courage to continue - "...when she heard the client was a woman, she went ballistic, smashed things, and then continued her hunger strike, demanding to meet you. I had no choice but to report this to you."

"Fine! I'll go see Dara. You two stay here and guard Ira. She's resting in my room."

"What!?" - Both of them exclaimed in unison, eyes widening in shock.

After receiving Tawan's sharp gaze, they realized their slip-up, immediately lowered their heads, and fell silent. They exchanged furtive glances, seemingly communicating through their eyes.

"Boss allowed someone into her room, and it's a woman?" - Pey widened her eyes at Ace, then stole a glance at Tawan

"Maaan, I'm just as shocked!" - Ace's eyes bulged in surprise

Both close aides were flooded with countless questions in their minds. For Tawan, her private space was extremely important—she disliked anyone entering her private areas, such as her home, office, and especially her bedroom. Allowing Ira to stay by her side, even sharing a bed with her, was truly an earth-shattering event for her closest associates. Even that person, when they were alive, had never been granted such a privilege, let alone a client she had only taken on a few days ago. Ace and Pey exchanged glances, a peculiar yet perfectly logical idea flashing in their minds.

"Ira - This thigh needs to be held on too tightly!"

Tawan noticed her two close aides exchanging glances and silently communicating their thoughts but chose not to bother with them. She turned back and headed to her room. Ira had finished her shower and was sitting on a chair reading a book. The moment she saw Tawan open the door and walk in, she quickly stood up and smiled at her.

"You should take a bath. I've already filled the tub for you!" - Ira smiled brightly.

"Thank you, but I have to go out for a bit." - Tawan looked at Ira gently.

"But it's already so late. Where are you going out at this hour?" - Ira asked, surprised and worried.

"I have some work to handle. Stay home and go to sleep first; you don't need to wait for me."

"But without you here, I'm scared..."

"Don't worry! This is my private home. It's very safe here, and besides, Pey and Ace, my most trusted aides, will be outside the door guarding you. Be good and stay home to sleep. I'll finish my work and come back to you as soon as I can. Alright?"

"..." - Ira stayed silent for a moment before reluctantly nodding. She didn't want to act childish because she understood that if Tawan had to leave at this hour, the matter must be very important. She wouldn't delay her time.

"Good girl." - Tawan patted Ira's head to comfort her. She could clearly see the look of disappointment on Ira's face but appreciated that Ira didn't complain. Tawan smiled warmly. - "Before I go, could you help me replace the bandages?"

"Sure! I'll go get the aid kit!" - Ira's mood quickly lifted, and she eagerly went to retrieve the items. Knowing that Tawan wanted her to take care of the wound made her very happy.

"No need! I'll call for someone to bring them." - Tawan called out toward the door.

A knock sounded shortly after, and Tawan signaled for the person outside to enter. Pey carefully opened the door, carrying a medical kit and bowing as she stepped in. This was the first time she had ever set foot in the forbidden sanctuary of Tawan's bedroom, which made her tense. Outside, Ace peeked in, just as nervous.

What greeted Pey's eyes was her boss sitting calmly on the bed while Ira, like a gentle little wife, was carefully lifting Tawan's arm and removing the old bandages, waiting for the tools and medication to clean, disinfect, and reapply the dressing.

Pey handed the medical kit to Ira, then stood dumbfounded on the spot while Ace, still outside, peeked in and stared in awe. It was a once-in-a-lifetime scene. Their fearsome boss, who usually commanded with an iron fist, was now sitting still and obediently letting a delicate lady take care of her.

*Gosh* Pey admitted to herself that if she weren't so afraid of death, she would have pulled out her phone to record the moment. But she valued her life—more specifically, she feared Tawan more than she feared death itself.

"What are you standing here for?" - Tawan's cold voice pierced through their dazed expressions, her sharp gaze sending chills down their spines. Both of them scrambled out of the room, closing the door behind them, leaving Tawan and Ira in privacy.

"They're really scared of you!" - Ira teased upon noticing, her hands still gently disinfecting Tawan's wound, her eyes focused to avoid causing pain.

"Everyone's scared of me..." - Tawan smiled softly at Ira's careful actions - "... except for you."

"Why should I be scared of you?" - Ira looked up, pausing her movements.

"Maybe because... I look intimidating?"

"You're not. I'm not scared of you." - Ira shook her head adorably and resumed bandaging.

"That's because you haven't seen my hands covered in blood." - Tawan's voice grew heavy.

"..." - Ira paused momentarily, then smiled, looking straight into Tawan's eyes - "Even if you became a serial killer, in my eyes, you'd still be my hero. I would never be afraid of you."

"I'm not a psychopathic murderer though." - Tawan protested.

"I know." - Ira flashed her bright, pearly smile and continued her work.

Tawan watched Ira, a quiet warmth spreading in her chest.

If she had a choice, she would make sure Ira never saw the darkest parts of her—the bloodstained hands, the ruthless side of who she truly was.

If she could, she would shield Ira forever. Keep her safe from the storms, from the bloodshed. Keep her untouched, protected beneath her wings.

"All done!" - Ira exclaimed with satisfaction, looking up only to catch the protective, caring gaze in Tawan's eyes. She froze for a moment, as if realizing she had become something precious to Tawan.

"Yeah, it looks great." - Tawan withdrew her gaze and smiled in approval - "I'm heading out now. Go to sleep."

"Got it. Drive safely."

"I will."

With that, Tawan grabbed her coat and left.

Ira stared at the door as it clicked shut, then let out a small breath. She flopped onto the bed, hugging a pillow, pulling the blanket over her head. She rolled back and forth, restless.

Then, suddenly, she sat up. Her feet carried her toward the window. She peered outside, just in time to see Tawan's car disappearing into the night.

A strange sense of emptiness settled in her chest. Dejectedly, she curled up on the small sofa by the window, her gaze drifting toward the full moon hanging in the sky.

Alone in the quiet space, Ira was quietly waiting for Tawan to return.

END CHAP 08