Beneath the Starlit Shadows."

e window, her stomach churning as she took in the sprawling mansion before them. The building loomed

?" Hana asked, her voice

pression unreadable. "No. But

arrying weapons. Hana swallowed hard, her fingers curling tightly around the brace

t. He extended a hand to Hana, helping her out of the vehicle. The moment

usic?" she as

d. "Hyun-Taek likes t

guards. The interior was a stark contrast to the cold exterior. The air was thick with the scen

ilings adorned with glittering chandeliers. Beautifully dressed men and women filled t

a party-it was de

f Shadows

n one corner, a woman in a crimson dress lounged on a velvet chaise, a glass of champagne in one hand and

sheer curtain, their intentions obvious. The atmosphere was thick with desir

hoon murmured, his han

ming energy of the room. But as they moved through the crowd, her unease grew. There was

ce called out, smoot

hair and a sharp, almost wolfish smile. His suit was immaculate, but there

n said, his tone n

ana, his smile widening. "And

ihoon stepped slightly in front of her,

k surrender. "Of course. Forgive my curiosity.

," Jihoon said, his voice

"Help always comes with a p

Of

lls gave them a perfect view of the party below-of the drinks flowing, the dan

g himself a glass of whiskey. "Wh

use if The Obsidian Circle t

dismiss boldness." He sipped his whiskey, his gaze drifting to Hana again.

ce was steady and cold. "She's not a distra

He set his glass down and leaned forward. "Fine. I'll consi

" Jihoon asked, his ton

the party. Show me you're

rty He

tempo slower and more provocative. Hana's cheeks flushed as she caught sight of

ana muttered, glanc

s hand resting on her lower back. "He likes to te

ns if we don't

but the tension in h

Jihoon took two glasses, handing one to Hana. She hesit

leaning close to her ear

before she could respond, a man approached them. He was tall a

s tone deceptively friendl

ugh," Jihoon

rew. She could feel the undercurrent of hostility in

ing to Hana. "You certainly know how

Jihoon stepped in front of her, his ex

ds in mock surrender. "Relax, old

Hana, his hand brushing against hers

y around them grew wilder. She could feel the danger closing in

w, at