Chapter 1: Fateful Encounter

Ji-Hyun's POV:

I navigated through the crowded streets of Seoul, my mind preoccupied with the upcoming exams. As a college student, I had always been diligent about my studies, but lately, I'd been feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to perform well.

As I turned a corner, I stumbled upon a group of rough-looking men harassing a street vendor. My instincts told me to stay away, but my sense of justice wouldn't let me ignore the situation.

I marched up to the group, my voice firm. "Leave him alone! He's just trying to make a living."

The men turned to face me, their eyes sneering. "Mind your own business, girl," one of them growled.

I stood my ground, despite the fear creeping up my spine. Suddenly, a figure emerged from the shadows, his presence commanding attention.

"Leave her alone," he said, his voice low and menacing.

The men backed off, their eyes darting nervously at the newcomer. I turned to thank him, but my words caught in my throat.

He was tall, with piercing eyes and chiseled features. His jet-black hair fell across his forehead, framing his face. He wore a black leather jacket, which seemed to accentuate his broad shoulders.

"Thanks," I managed to stammer.

The stranger nodded, his eyes never leaving mine. "You shouldn't be here. This isn't a safe place for you."

I felt a shiver run down my spine as he reached out and gently grasped my arm. His touch sent a spark of electricity through my body.

"Let's get out of here," he said, his voice low and husky.

I nodded, still feeling dazed. As we walked away from the scene, I couldn't help but wonder who this mysterious stranger was.

Little did I know, our chance encounter would set off a chain of events that would change my life forever.

As we turned a corner, I caught a glimpse of a tattoo on the stranger's hand - a black dragon coiled around his wrist. I felt a shiver run down my spine.

"What's your name?" I asked, trying to sound calm.

The stranger smiled, his eyes glinting. "Tae-Oh," he said, his voice low and smooth.

My heart skipped a beat as I met his gaze. I knew, in that moment, that I was in trouble.

As we continued walking, the streets became increasingly familiar. I realized that Tae-Oh was leading me back to my neighborhood.

"How did you know where I lived?" I asked, a little startled.

Tae-Oh smiled, his eyes glinting. "I've been watching you," he said, his voice low and husky.

I felt a shiver run down my spine. Watching me? What did he mean by that?

As we approached my apartment building, Tae-Oh slowed down. "I'll walk you to your door," he said, his eyes never leaving mine.

I nodded, feeling a little nervous. What did I really know about this guy?

As we stepped into the elevator, Tae-Oh's presence seemed to fill the small space. I felt a little claustrophobic, but at the same time, I was drawn to him.

The elevator doors opened, and Tae-Oh followed me to my apartment door. I fumbled for my keys, feeling a little awkward.

As I unlocked the door, Tae-Oh turned to me, his eyes serious. "Be careful, Ji-Hyun," he said, his voice low and urgent. "There are people who might hurt you."

I felt a shiver run down my spine. What was he talking about?

Before I could ask any questions, Tae-Oh turned and disappeared into the night, leaving me feeling confused and a little scared.

As I stepped into my apartment, I couldn't shake off the feeling that my life was about to change in ways I couldn't imagine.

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