CHAPTER EIGHT
Ties That Bind | 묶는 넥타이

⚘( ၴႅၴ

"Wear this." Crystal's voice held a playful lilt as she extended a breathtaking dress, her eyes glimmering with excitement. The dress itself was a masterpiece—deep, rich fabric that caught the light, adorned with delicate embellishments that seemed to shimmer like stardust. The color was bold, striking in a way that matched the energy of the night ahead. Crystal's gaze flicked from the dress back to (your name), a mischievous smile tugging at the corners of her mouth as she waited for a reaction.

"My makeup!" (Your name) protested, feigning a tone of annoyance, though the sparkle in her own eyes betrayed her true feelings. There was a hint of anticipation there, her gaze lingering on the dress as she imagined what it would feel like to step into it, to let it transform her.

Crystal laughed softly, the warmth in her eyes adding to her teasing. "Hun, your makeup is already gorgeous," she assured, her voice genuine. "But this dress—this dress is going to be the star tonight." With an easy confidence, she added, "I'll get some professional makeup artists and hairdressers here in no time. You'll look unforgettable."

The assurance in Crystal's tone softened (your name)'s nerves, easing the faint flutter of doubt in her chest. She rolled her eyes playfully, crossing her arms. "You know, you should be grateful our manager's okay with letting me take the night off for this," she said, trying to maintain a serious expression. But the small grin that tugged at her lips gave her away.

Crystal's grin widened as she leaned back, rolling her eyes with a dramatic flourish. "Who isn't over the top these days?" she replied, a sparkle of amusement in her gaze. "It's the season for spectacle, and you're the main event tonight."

The excitement flickered into something more vulnerable as (your name) met Crystal's gaze, her voice quieting as she asked, "You think I'm pretty?" She hadn't expected to ask it, and her words held a note of sincerity that surprised her.

"Of course," Crystal replied, her playful demeanor softening as her voice lowered with warmth. Her gaze held steady, sincere as she looked at (your name) with a kindness that was both comforting and affirming. "You're beautiful. You're going to be unforgettable tonight."

The weight of the upcoming event started to settle in, and (your name) sighed, running a hand through her hair. "But the ball is coming up..." She groaned, the anxiety over the evening's expectations pressing down on her. "Promise you'll come with me to the entrance, okay?"

"Of course," Crystal nodded. But as (your name) turned to gather the final essentials for the night, her brow furrowed. "But where's the—" She rummaged through the nearby drawers and shelves, her confusion growing until she spotted Crystal, a sly grin on her face, holding her knife casually in her hand.

"Bitch!" (your name) exclaimed, eyes wide with laughter and mock outrage.

Both of them dissolved into laughter, the tension slipping away as they realized the absurdity of the moment. (Your name) knew she had been hard on herself, and Crystal's teasing was exactly what she needed to remember that tonight was supposed to be fun, and she was in good hands.

They had arrived at the ball, where the atmosphere was nothing short of electric, the air buzzing with excitement and the murmur of conversation. The grand ballroom was adorned with cascading chandeliers, their light glinting off the polished marble floors and casting a warm glow over the elegant crowd. Crystal had already drifted into the throng, her confidence and charm drawing people to her as she effortlessly moved from one group to another. She wore a dazzling red dress, similar in color to yours but more understated—a high neckline with no daring cuts, exuding an elegance that contrasted with the boldness of your gown.

From across the room, a familiar voice called out, laced with playful teasing. "How's your pet?"

Crystal's head turned, her brows knitting together in an attempt to look stern, but she couldn't hold back her grin. "If you call her a pet, my dad will have you detained," she shot back, failing miserably at sounding intimidating. "She's fine, just a bit salty, but still herself."

The voice belonged to Gun, who had always had a knack for stirring things up. His eyes sparkled with mischief, though his tone shifted slightly, a hint of seriousness peeking through. "You know, that girl hides a lot from you," he said, his words a playful jab but carrying an undertone of something else.

Crystal rolled her eyes, crossing her arms as she took a step closer, her competitive edge surfacing. "What are you talking about now, Gun? I know her better than you do."

Gun shook his head, exasperation flitting across his features as he tried to explain himself. "Idiot, that's not what I meant. Don't get all competitive on me," he muttered, casting her an amused glance.

Just then, an older man approached, his presence calm and reassuring, his eyes crinkling with warmth as he looked at Crystal. "Hey, kid, how are you?" Charles Choi greeted her with a soft smile, his tone kind yet observant.

Crystal smiled back, her posture relaxing. "I'm just enjoying the company here," she said sincerely, her voice tinged with genuine warmth.

Charles nodded approvingly. "Good to hear. And what about James?" His gaze held a glint of curiosity.

"PTJ business," Crystal replied with a trace of pride, her chin lifting slightly. "(Your name) joined because of her friends, you know."

Gun's voice broke in, his eyebrows raised as he leaned in. "James mentioned he's made friends with two guys, Daniel and Duke. Duke's in your class, isn't he?"

Crystal's eyes gleamed with interest as she nodded, "Yeah, Duke's my classmate. Always so quiet, but there's more to him than he lets on."

Gun smirked, watching the way Crystal's expression softened ever so slightly. "Well, if anything, this is going to be a night none of us forget."

"What?!" Crystal's eyes flew wide open, her surprise evident as she looked between her friends, her gaze sharp and filled with curiosity.

"So! What are you guys talking about?" Another voice cut in, brimming with energy. Goo had arrived, his expression alight with eagerness to jump into the conversation.

"Gossip," Crystal replied smoothly, a glint of mischief in her eyes as she threw him a smirk.

Goo's attention shifted to Gun, who had been uncharacteristically quiet. "Gun, why are you so quiet, huh?" he teased, giving him a playful nudge. But just as he was about to continue, his expression shifted. "Oh—"

"Ayy, there you are, sir. Ahem." Goo straightened quickly as an older man approached, the sudden formality barely concealing his surprise.

The man squinted at Goo, a glimmer of recognition crossing his face. "Goo, it's been a while since I've seen you," he replied, his tone both welcoming and stern.

Goo chuckled, trying to mask his nerves. "Your eyes are getting worse, old man; you probably can't see me properly," he shot back, trying to regain his bravado.

Gun, who had been watching this exchange with growing exasperation, shook his head and smacked Goo lightly on the back of the head. "Where's that girl?" he muttered, looking around impatiently.

As if on cue, (your name) stepped through the grand archway of the building, her graceful silhouette framed perfectly by the red carpet. Crystal's smile widened as she watched her friend stride confidently into the room, eyes locked ahead, her every step poised and captivating. All eyes turned to her, caught in the magnetic pull of her entrance.

(Your name) was a vision in a black mermaid-tail gown, the fabric hugging her figure before flaring elegantly at the hem. A daring slit ran up one side, revealing just enough to make a statement, while her white fur coat draped over her shoulders added a touch of classic, old-Hollywood elegance. Her makeup was bold—a smoky, deep black that contrasted beautifully with her sleek, pulled-back black hair. The only hint of color was her vibrant red lipstick, drawing attention to her confident smile.

Gun's jaw visibly slackened, his eyes widening as he took in her striking appearance. "Nice style," he remarked, unable to hide the admiration in his voice.

Goo let out a low whistle, his appreciation evident as he joined in the admiration, causing a few nearby guests to glance in their direction and murmur their own quiet comments about the arrival.

As she walked toward Crystal and Charles Choi, whispers rippled through the crowd, the room buzzing with awe and admiration for her. She carried herself with a poise and confidence that commanded attention, each step a testament to her own strength and elegance.

When (your name) finally reached Crystal, she turned to her with a look that was suddenly serious, the faintest hint of a grin tugging at her lips. "Crystal, I'm dying to take all this off," she murmured, humor glinting beneath her steady gaze.

Crystal's own face softened, but she quickly composed herself, motioning toward the older man with a hint of pride in her voice. "(Your name), this is Charles Choi, the chairman... and my dad."

(Your name)'s eyes widened, caught off-guard as she quickly dipped her head in a respectful bow. "Much respect, sir. I didn't see you there," she stammered, a faint blush of embarrassment coloring her cheeks.

For a moment, everything seemed perfect, laughter and admiration in the air.

But in the next instant, a tension seemed to settle over them. An almost imperceptible shift rippled through the crowd, a hint of something amiss lingering in the atmosphere. Though they tried to ignore it, the feeling was hard to shake.

(Your name)'s breath deepened, her heart racing. The man who had previously taken Crystal stood right in front of her—a man whose reputation was shadowed by illegal activities.

Slowly, (Your name) gathered her courage and stood a little taller.

She locked eyes with him, her gaze unwavering. 

"I'm (Your name)—. It's a pleasure to meet you. Quite the pleasure," she said with a steady voice, though a faint chill trickled down her spine as if some unseen tension lurked just beneath the surface. Her eyes held their warmth, yet she couldn't shake the quiet sense of foreboding. Wait 'til I get my hands on you, old man, she thought, masking her inner thoughts with a polite smile.

Around her, whispers stirred in the crowd, their curiosity clearly piqued.

"Who's that? I don't know her," someone muttered in a hushed tone, watching her with barely concealed interest.

"She's a friend of the Chois? Never heard her say where she's from!" another voice chimed in, adding to the speculation.

"Wouldn't it be nice if we scouted her?" someone else suggested, a note of excitement in their tone.

"Oh, please! Who'd want to be scouted by you, with that reputation?" came a laughing retort, mingling with the murmurs and adding a lively edge to the atmosphere.

Among the guests, Gun's attention was drawn to a particular figure standing by the bar, a stranger observing (your name) intently over the rim of a wine glass. But before he could make anything of it, a voice pierced through the chatter.

"Uh, hello, miss—!" A paparazzo, microphone in hand, appeared suddenly at her side. "What's it like to be here tonight?"

Maintaining her poise, (your name) met his gaze coolly. "I think I fit well with the overall vibe of the place," she replied confidently, a slight smile playing at her lips. "Whoever created the designs tonight is truly spectacular."

Crystal, watching nearby, couldn't help but smile, impressed by her friend's ease under the spotlight.

"And, if I may ask," the reporter pressed on, "what exactly is your relationship with the Choi family?"

Caught off guard, (your name) hesitated, her mind racing to find a response. "Uhhh..."

But before she could finish, another photographer interjected. "Sorry, miss, can I take her for a quick shot? Thank you!"

"Wait!" Crystal stepped forward, positioning herself protectively in front of (your name). "You almost got caught there," she whispered, glancing around nervously to check if anyone else was closing in on them.

"Wow, I've never dealt with paparazzi like this," (your name) muttered, exhaling with a hint of relief. "Maybe Gun would want a try?" She added with a half-serious, half-joking tone.

Crystal's laughter was soft, almost conspiratorial. "Oh, I'd pay to see that."

Her laughter faded as her eyes softened, curiosity flickering in them. "So...how was the meeting with my dad? Did you like him?"

"He's...intimidating," (your name) admitted, her voice holding a touch of admiration. "But he's polite. I can see why people respect him."

Crystal nodded, thoughtful. "That's his way with people at first. You get used to it," she replied, memories of her father's strong presence lingering in her tone.

Just then, her phone buzzed, and she glanced down, brows furrowing. "Hold on, my dad's calling me. Are you sure you can manage on your own for a bit?" Her voice held a trace of worry.

"No," (your name) confessed, a glimmer of anxiety flashing in her eyes.

"Good luck, then," Crystal said, a playful grin spreading across her face as she handed her friend an empty glass. "Just get me some juice!"

"Oh, so now you're the rude one?" (your name) shot back, her nerves loosening with a smile as Crystal disappeared into the crowd.

Moving toward the side of the hall, (your name) slipped through the groups of chatting guests to the refreshment table, where she picked up a glass of juice rather than the sparkling wine that flowed freely around the room. This felt more like a vibrant party than the intimidating balls she had read about in webtoons—still, she wasn't sure if she could handle any liquor tonight, given the excitement and nerves that already swirled within her.

Suddenly, she bumped into someone.

"Eyy! It's the witch who serves Crystal. How are you?" Goo's playful voice broke the tension, his grin mischievous.

"Hey, rude! I didn't say you could treat me that way tonight," she retorted, crossing her arms but letting a hint of laughter slip through.

Goo chuckled, feigning innocence. "You're too much. I haven't done anything to you yet."

"True enough," (your name) admitted with a smirk. Her gaze drifted over the crowd before landing back on Goo. "Have you seen Gun? He's been watching me like a hawk—kind of scary, honestly."

"Oh, that's just Gun being Gun," Goo laughed. "But you've definitely gotten his attention." He raised his glass in a teasing salute, making her laugh as they settled into the lively atmosphere of the evening.

"Just hit him; he's not scary," Goo urged, a mischievous spark lighting up his eyes. "Say, how about we sneak out of here and prank the guests?" His grin was infectious, and the thrill of rebellion hung in the air between them.

"I still need to give this fruit juice to Crystal," (Your name) reminded herself, glancing around for her friend. The elegant ballroom shimmered with sparkling chandeliers, laughter mingling with the soft music in the background. "But... let's go."

She decided with a newfound burst of adventurous energy, feeling the thrill of the evening's mischief wrapping around her like a warm blanket.

"Gun, please keep an eye on (Your name)," Crystal instructed, her tone low and serious as she leaned in close to speak with him, the atmosphere shifting slightly. Gun nodded, his expression stoic, and then slipped away, leaving Crystal to face her father, who stood gazing thoughtfully out the grand window, the soft glow of the moon illuminating his features.

"Oh, Dad, why?" she asked, her curiosity piqued as she approached him. The weight of the evening pressed against her, but she couldn't shake the feeling that something important was being left unsaid.

"Just remembering how you both were when you were kids. It's almost been a decade," he replied, a wistful smile forming as he turned his gaze toward (Your name), who was now a few paces away, her laughter mingling with Goo's. "Your eyes were so small back then, always covered by those glasses. And she..." His voice trailed off, nostalgia washing over him, a bittersweet ache tugging at his heart.

"I saw her fire. She almost didn't want to part from you. Do you still feel that way when she looks at you?" he asked gently, probing with the ease of a father who knew his child well.

"Huh?" Crystal blinked, her brow furrowing in confusion at his sudden intensity.

"You might not understand yet," he continued, his tone shifting to one of seriousness. "You're grown up now, but there's something in your heart. It's important, and you should broaden your horizons." His eyes held a depth of understanding, as if he could see the untapped potential swirling within her.

"Why are we even talking about this?" Crystal asked, bewildered, her mind racing to comprehend the sudden turn in their conversation.

"Crystal, have you seen (Your name) fight?" he pressed, the weight of the question sinking in.

"Not yet," she admitted, her heart racing at the thought. Memories of the playful exchanges between them flashed in her mind, mingled with her budding admiration for (Your name).

"Disappointing." He pointed toward the lively duo currently engaged in a playful ruckus among the partygoers. (Your name) and Goo were pulling pranks, their infectious laughter cutting through the atmosphere. "I heard from Gun that they fought when you were shopping."

Really?

"She's good at fighting," he continued, pride evident in his voice. "She may not be book-smart, but she's got street smarts." The admiration in his tone was clear, a father's pride shining through as he recalled the moments they had witnessed together.

Does my dad know who her dad is? The thought swirled in Crystal's mind, curiosity mixing with concern.

"Crystal, I want you to recruit her."

She nearly choked on her breath, shock washing over her. Whipping her head toward her father, she searched his face for any hint of jest, but found none. He remained focused on the crowd, lost in his own thoughts.

"Recruit her. Make her part of the genius team," he instructed, his tone firm yet supportive, as though he were handing down a decree.

"But Dad, she's not that type of person. She has no interest—" Crystal began to protest, her voice wavering slightly under the weight of his expectation.

"You still need to try. Have you forgotten what I taught you?" he countered, his gaze unwavering, the intensity in his eyes a reminder of the lessons he had imparted over the years.

"Okay, Dad," she finally conceded, her mind racing with the endless possibilities, a mix of apprehension and determination swirling within her.

"This time," he said, leaning down to place a gentle kiss on her forehead, "I won't separate you two." His words hung in the air, a promise wrapped in love.

"Gun knows what we talked about; he will handle everything. I just want you to help since you're his close friend. Do this well," he concluded, his voice serious and filled with expectation.

"Yes, Dad," Crystal affirmed, feeling her resolve strengthen with each passing moment.

Meanwhile, (Your name) had rejoined Goo, a playful smile spreading across her face as she tried to shift the atmosphere. "Hey, Goo, do you know what will make me more excited tonight?"

"Just tell me," he replied eagerly, leaning in closer, his anticipation palpable.

"We'll prank Gun," she declared, a mischievous glint sparkling in her eyes as the words tumbled from her lips, invigorating her adventurous spirit.

Goo's face lit up, breaking into a wide grin. "We can be besties, bestie!" he exclaimed, his enthusiasm infectious, and for a moment, everything felt light and carefree.

"Show-off, later when we're done with him," (Your name) shot back, her mind already concocting elaborate plans for their mischief.

"What's the plan—"

"Hey," a voice interrupted them, stern and commanding.

"Ah— you're such a buzzkill, you know that?" Goo complained, rolling his eyes dramatically as they both turned to see Gun standing there, arms crossed, his gaze sharp and assessing.

Gun's lips twitched at the corners, almost breaking into a smile, but he maintained a facade of seriousness. "And you two should learn to be more subtle if you're trying to pull anything tonight," he replied, a hint of challenge lacing his words.

"Oh, we're just getting started," (Your name) shot back, lifting her juice glass in a mock toast to him, feeling the adrenaline surge through her veins as the night promised nothing but excitement.

Gun's eyes sparkled with mischief as he narrowed his gaze at her. "Then bring it on, but I hope you're ready for the consequences." His voice held a blend of warning and encouragement, as if he were both challenging her and inviting her into the fray of the night's festivities.

"Is it a buzzkill if I'm the one you're going to prank?" Gun retorted, crossing his arms.

"Hey, hey, hey, don't fight here," (Your name) warned, raising a hand to intervene.

"You took the more fun job and left me, and now you're going to take my best friend too? I'll kill you, Gun," Goo exclaimed, pouting dramatically.

"You're really such a show-off; you don't seem to think, Goo," Gun replied, shaking his head with a smile.

"Hey! Why only Gun!" (Your name) protested, her cheeks flushed with laughter. SHe have been enjoying this scene unfold though, unbashfully.

"Come here, (Your name)," Gun beckoned, his voice commanding.

"What? Why are you suddenly taking her away, you beast!" Goo protested, watching in disbelief.

"Charles Choi wants to recruit you as part of the geniuses; what do you say?" Gun chimed in, his tone casual yet laced with urgency.

"Hah..." Marcy said, surprised at the unexpected proposal.

"So all of this..." she paused, searching for the right words. "Isn't to meet Crystal's father; you want to recruit me?"

Gun did not speak.

I could get close to the Choi's, but what would I do if? Marcy's thoughts spiraled as possibilities raced through her mind.

She caught sight of a person on the side, someone with striking pink hair. They signed that she should say yes, a hint of encouragement in their gesture.

"You can say yes and change your mind afterward; it's not a contract," Gun urged. "At least until we find a place for you."

"No..." Marcy replied, shaking her head.

"No what?" Gun pressed, eyebrows furrowing in confusion.

"This is really the wrong place to discuss this." She laughed lightly, her heart racing with the weight of the decision. Sharp eyes. She knew what they were planning. "But I'll think about it first. I'm not stupid, Gun. I know what you're doing."

Gun stepped closer, his voice lowering conspiratorially. "Do you think we'd still be comfortable letting Crystal go to you if you decline? You know we have Crystal."

"You won't do anything to Crystal," Marcy asserted, her voice steady but her heart racing.

"Right, but..." Gun's expression softened. "Crystal would be saddened."

"Fuck you, Gun," she snapped, her frustration bubbling to the surface. "But who do you think you're fooling?"

"Fine, we still expect you to change your mind," Gun replied, his tone shifting back to lighthearted. "I'm looking forward to seeing your full potential."

Ew.

Isn't he the owner of PTJ?

We can't talk here. It's too risky. Goo was staring at me, his eyes filled with mischief. I couldn't help but roll my eyes and give him the middle finger, knowing this night was just beginning.