Chapter 8
As the night stretched on, the apartment looked more like a high-tech lab than a living space. Wires snaked across the floor, blueprints were pinned haphazardly to the walls, and every table was covered with metal plating, circuitry, and half-assembled components of Jinsol’s upgraded Specter suit. The air buzzed with energy—partly from excitement, partly from frustration.
Jinsol sat on the couch, absentmindedly rolling her shoulder, still sore from the last fight. Yoona was perched beside her, watching her friends work with an amused look. Haewon was hunched over the main body of the suit, her fingers carefully adjusting the reinforced plating. Kyujin was tinkering with the wrist guards, trying (and failing) to add a retractable blade. Jiwoo sat cross-legged on the floor, typing rapidly into her laptop, testing the new HUD system they were installing in Jinsol’s mask.
"You’re all nerds," Jinsol muttered, arms crossed.
"Says the vigilante who literally fights crime in a superhero suit," Kyujin shot back. "You’re just mad you don’t know how to do any of this tech stuff."
"I know how to throw a punch," Jinsol countered smugly.
"Yeah, we noticed," Jiwoo grumbled. "That’s why half of your suit broke last time. You don’t know when to dodge."
"Dodging is for cowards," Jinsol said.
Yoona flicked her forehead. "Dodging is for people who don’t want to die, idiot."
Jinsol scowled, rubbing the spot where Yoona hit her.
Haewon sighed, brushing her bangs out of her eyes as she examined the suit. "We need better materials for the joints. The last ones broke too easily. And we have to reinforce the chest piece—Erebus hit you way too hard last time."
"Don’t remind me," Jinsol muttered.
"We also need to fix the grappling hook," Jiwoo added. "It jammed twice when you tested it, and if that happens in an actual fight, you’re screwed."
"What about her mask?" Yoona asked, tilting her head.
"It’s fine, but we’re upgrading the HUD," Haewon explained. "We’re adding night vision, thermal vision, and a better interface so she can get real-time data while fighting."
"We should also improve communication," Kyujin chimed in. "Last time, there was too much interference when we tried to talk to her."
"And maybe a distress signal?" Yoona suggested hesitantly. "Something only we can track in case she ever—" She hesitated, lowering her voice. "—in case she ever gets in trouble?"
A heavy silence filled the room.
Jinsol, who had been leaning against the couch, straightened up. "I won’t let that happen."
Yoona frowned. "Jinsol—"
"It’s a good idea," Jinsol cut her off softly. "Let’s do it."
Yoona stared at her for a moment, searching her expression. Jinsol was always like this—carrying the weight of the world on her shoulders, acting like she didn’t need help. But she wasn’t alone anymore.
"Then it’s settled," Jiwoo said, clearing her throat. "We’re installing a tracker and emergency beacon. If you ever go missing, we’ll know where to find you."
Jinsol exhaled, nodding. "Alright."
She leaned forward, picking up one of the gloves Kyujin had been working on. "This still needs work, huh?"
"Yeah," Jiwoo muttered. "It short-circuited last time. Almost shocked me to death when I tested it."
"Sounds like a skill issue," Jinsol teased.
Jiwoo grabbed a screwdriver and threw it at her.
Jinsol caught it easily, smirking. "At least my reflexes are still good."
Kyujin cackled, while Haewon just shook her head. "You two are exhausting."
Yoona, however, just watched Jinsol with a soft smile. Even if she wouldn’t admit it, Jinsol wasn’t fighting alone anymore. She had a team—a family. And Yoona would make sure she never forgot that.
The night stretched on with more tinkering, teasing, and last-minute adjustments. Some parts of the suit were finalized, others kept breaking, but they were getting closer.
Specter was getting stronger. And this time, she wouldn’t be fighting alone.
Jinsol had gone out to test her suit upgrades like usual, but tonight was different. She was sloppy—too slow, too distracted. Her attacks weren’t as sharp, her dodges weren’t as clean. The criminals she was fighting weren’t even Erebus’s men, just a bunch of small-time thugs causing trouble in the streets. Normally, she’d take them down in seconds. But tonight?
She missed a punch. She mistimed a kick.
And for the first time in a long time, she actually got hit.
"What the hell is wrong with me?" she muttered under her breath as she rolled across the pavement, barely managing to dodge another attack.
Through her earpiece, Jiwoo’s voice crackled in, sounding both confused and annoyed. "Jinsol, what are you doing? That guy was wide open!"
"Yeah, you’re moving like an old man," Kyujin added. "Did you forget how to fight or something?"
"I don’t know," Jinsol gritted out, blocking a pipe swung at her head. "Something’s just… off."
She could hear Yoona’s voice in the background, concerned but trying not to sound panicked. "Are you okay? Do you need to pull back?"
Jinsol clenched her jaw. No. She wasn’t going to pull back.
With a deep breath, she forced herself to focus and finished off the last few thugs. But even as she stood over their unconscious bodies, panting, something still didn’t feel right.
She made her way to a rooftop, gripping the edge of a railing as she stared out over the city. She was messing up. She never messed up like this.
And the worst part?
She knew exactly why.
It was Yoona.
Ever since that damn kiss, ever since Yoona looked at her with those bright eyes full of warmth, ever since she called her baby over comms—Jinsol hadn’t been able to focus.
She was too aware of Yoona now. Too aware of the way her heart sped up when she heard her voice. Too aware of the fact that Yoona wasn’t just some bystander she needed to protect anymore—she was hers.
And that terrified her.
Because now, she had something to lose.
Jinsol stormed into the apartment, slamming the door behind her. She barely glanced at Yoona before heading straight for the bathroom to clean up. But, of course, Yoona wasn’t going to let her get away that easily.
“Sit,” Yoona ordered, pointing to the couch.
Jinsol huffed but obeyed, dropping onto the cushions with her arms crossed. Yoona crouched in front of her, eyes scanning over the fresh cuts and bruises.
“You’re getting worse,” Yoona muttered, dipping a cotton swab into antiseptic.
“I won,” Jinsol shot back, looking away.
“You almost lost,” Yoona corrected, pressing the swab against a cut on Jinsol’s arm. Jinsol flinched but didn’t pull away. “I saw everything. You were sloppy. Unfocused.”
Jinsol clenched her jaw. “It was just a bad night.”
Yoona let out a humorless laugh. “A bad night? You never have bad nights, Jinsol. Not like that.”
“Maybe I’m just tired—”
“No,” Yoona interrupted, shaking her head. “It’s me, isn’t it?”
Jinsol stiffened.
Yoona sighed, setting down the first-aid supplies. “Ever since that night… ever since we—”
“Don’t,” Jinsol cut in sharply.
Yoona frowned. “Jinsol—”
“I can’t do this,” Jinsol snapped, standing up abruptly. “I can’t fight like this, Yoona. You’re in my head all the damn time.”
Yoona stood too, frustration flashing in her eyes. “And whose fault is that?! I didn’t ask you to lose focus! I didn’t ask you to mess up out there!”
Jinsol ran a hand through her hair, breathing heavily. “I can’t afford to be distracted. I can’t afford to lose.”
“Then don’t lose!” Yoona yelled, stepping closer. “Figure it out! Because I’m not going anywhere, Jinsol. I love you, and I—”
“That’s the problem!” Jinsol finally exploded, her voice cracking. “I love you too much, and it’s ruining me!”
The room fell silent.
Yoona’s eyes widened, her breath hitching.
Jinsol froze, realizing what she just admitted. She clenched her fists, shoulders trembling. “I can’t—” Her voice wavered. “I can’t lose you, Yoona.”
Yoona swallowed hard, stepping even closer. “You won’t.”
Jinsol shook her head. “You don’t know that.”
“But I do.” Yoona reached out, taking Jinsol’s shaking hands in hers. “We’ll figure this out. Together.”
Jinsol looked down at their hands, struggling to breathe.
She wanted to believe that.
She really did.
Jinsol exhaled shakily, squeezing her eyes shut. The weight of her words, of her emotions, settled heavily on her chest.
“I’m sorry,” she finally whispered. Her voice was raw, strained. “I didn’t mean to yell at you.”
Yoona’s grip on her hands tightened. “I know.”
Jinsol swallowed hard, guilt gnawing at her. “I just— I don’t know how to handle this. I don’t know how to be Specter and— and be with you.” She looked up at Yoona, her eyes glassy. “I keep messing up. I keep—”
“Stop,” Yoona cut in gently, cupping Jinsol’s face. “You’re not messing up, Jinsol. You’re human.”
Jinsol let out a bitter chuckle. “Barely.”
Yoona frowned. “Don’t say that.” She traced her thumb over Jinsol’s cheek, softer now. “You’re doing your best. And yeah, maybe you’re struggling, but that doesn’t mean you’re failing.”
Jinsol looked at her, searching for something—reassurance, maybe. “What if I can’t be both? What if I have to choose?”
Yoona’s expression hardened. “Then we’ll find another way. I’m not letting you push me away, Bae Jinsol. Not again.”
Jinsol exhaled slowly, her body finally relaxing. “I really am sorry,” she murmured again.
Yoona smiled a little, brushing a strand of hair from Jinsol’s face. “I know.” Then, with a teasing smirk, she added, “But you still owe me for making me worry like that.”
Jinsol groaned, but for the first time that night, her lips curled into a faint smile. “Fine. Anything you want.”
Yoona’s eyes lit up mischievously. “Good. Because I’m making you take me on a proper date.”
Jinsol chuckled, shaking her head. “You’re impossible.”
“And you love me for it.”
Jinsol didn’t even hesitate. “I do.”
Jinsol had been looking forward to this date more than she realized. After all the chaos, all the injuries, and sleepless nights as Specter, today was different. Today, she wasn’t a vigilante. She wasn’t a fighter. She was just Bae Jinsol, a girl who got to spend the day with the person she loved.
The sun was warm but not too hot as they walked side by side down the city streets. Yoona had picked out a cute, casual outfit—an oversized sweater and a skirt—while Jinsol, wanting to impress just a little, actually styled her hair and wore something other than her usual dark hoodies.
Yoona noticed. "Wow, you actually dressed up," she teased, bumping her shoulder against Jinsol’s.
Jinsol rolled her eyes but couldn't help grinning. "Had to match my beautiful girlfriend, didn't I?"
Yoona giggled. "You’re getting better at flirting."
Their first stop was a small bookstore Yoona had been dying to visit. She dragged Jinsol inside, eyes sparkling as she wandered through the aisles. Jinsol didn't mind. She liked watching Yoona get excited over things, liked how she would read the back of a book and mumble to herself, completely absorbed.
At one point, Yoona found a romance novel and turned to Jinsol with a smirk. "Should we read this together?"
Jinsol took it from her, skimming through the pages. "You just want an excuse to make me read a cheesy love story."
"Maybe," Yoona admitted, sticking her tongue out.
They ended up buying it, Yoona happily swinging the bag in her hand as they left. "I'll make you read it to me out loud."
"Yeah, yeah," Jinsol said, shaking her head but smiling.
Their next stop was an arcade. Yoona, as competitive as ever, insisted they play a few rounds of air hockey. Jinsol let her win the first round, but when Yoona got cocky, Jinsol started playing seriously. They ended up laughing so hard, they drew the attention of people around them.
Then, they moved to the claw machines. Yoona had her heart set on a plush cat, but after several failed attempts, she pouted at Jinsol.
"You try!"
Jinsol sighed, stepping up to the machine. "Fine. But if I get it, you owe me a kiss."
Yoona smirked. "Deal."
With careful focus, Jinsol maneuvered the claw, and on her second try, the plush cat dropped into the prize slot. Yoona cheered, grabbing it and hugging it close before turning to Jinsol.
"A promise is a promise," she said before quickly pecking Jinsol's cheek.
Jinsol turned bright red. "That was barely a kiss!"
Yoona just laughed.
After the arcade, they went to a café Yoona had wanted to try. They sat by the window, sharing a slice of strawberry cake and sipping on their drinks. Jinsol found herself staring at Yoona more than she intended to.
"What?" Yoona asked, tilting her head.
Jinsol shook her head, smiling. "Nothing. I just like looking at you."
Yoona turned red. "You're really on a roll today, huh?"
"Maybe," Jinsol said, stealing a bite of cake.
The hours passed too quickly. They walked along the river, watching the sunset, the orange and pink hues reflecting off the water. Jinsol leaned against the railing, sighing contentedly.
Yoona turned to her. "Are you happy?"
Jinsol looked at her, really looked at her, and smiled. "Yeah. I am."
Yoona reached out, playing with the sleeve of Jinsol’s jacket. "I like seeing you happy."
Jinsol felt something warm bloom in her chest. She reached out, tucking a strand of hair behind Yoona’s ear. "It's because of you."
Yoona blushed, before suddenly leaning in and kissing Jinsol—soft, slow, and sweet. When she pulled away, she whispered, "I love you."
Jinsol's breath hitched. She hadn't expected those words. But she didn't hesitate to answer.
"I love you too."
And for once, in the midst of all the chaos in their lives, everything felt perfect.
The night sky stretched endlessly above them, a deep indigo scattered with tiny stars. The city below glittered like a sea of fireflies, its heartbeat alive with distant car horns and the soft hum of people still moving about. The view from the tower was breathtaking, but for Jinsol, nothing could compare to the warmth of Yoona beside her.
As they reached the section of the tower covered in thousands of colorful locks, Yoona let out an excited gasp. “Look at all of these! So many promises,” she murmured, running her fingers over a few of them. Some were old and rusted, the ink on their names faded, while others were brand new, their vibrant colors standing out against the worn metal.
Jinsol stuffed her hands into her jacket pockets, watching Yoona’s fascination with quiet amusement. She had never been the type to believe in things like this—writing names on a lock and leaving it behind as a symbol of forever. But with Yoona here, looking so excited, it was hard not to feel something.
Yoona turned to her, holding up a golden lock and a marker. "Alright, Jinsol. Time to make it official."
Jinsol raised an eyebrow. “You really planned this, huh?”
"Of course!" Yoona grinned, shaking the marker in her hand. “Now, write our names.”
Jinsol hesitated for a second before taking the marker. Carefully, she wrote in neat handwriting:
Bae Jinsol & Seol Yoona
Yoona leaned in, watching intently before letting out a satisfied hum. “Nice, but it needs something extra.” She took the marker and added a small heart next to their names. “Now it’s perfect.”
Jinsol chuckled. “Didn’t realize you were this cheesy.”
"Says the one who lets me cling to her 24/7," Yoona teased, sticking out her tongue before securing the lock onto the railing with a satisfying click.
She turned to Jinsol, a soft breeze rustling her hair. “Okay, now we make a wish.”
“A wish?” Jinsol blinked. “I thought locking it was enough?”
Yoona shook her head, smiling knowingly. “Nope. You have to make a wish in your heart, and you can't tell anyone what it is, or else it won’t come true.”
Jinsol exhaled through her nose, amused but willing to go along with it. She closed her eyes for a brief moment, letting her thoughts settle. She didn’t need to think too hard—her wish was already clear.
Yoona, on the other hand, pressed her hands together, eyes shut tightly as she made her own wish with dramatic concentration. When she opened them again, she found Jinsol staring at her, a faint smile playing on her lips.
“What?” Yoona asked, tilting her head.
Jinsol shook her head. “I don’t need to wish for anything. I already have you.”
Yoona’s face turned bright red in an instant. “Y-You—!” She groaned, hiding her face in her hands. “Ugh, stop saying things like that!”
Jinsol only laughed. “You love it.”
Yoona peeked at her through her fingers before sighing in defeat. “Yeah… I do.”
The confession came so naturally, so effortlessly, that it made Jinsol’s heart skip a beat.
A moment of silence stretched between them, the kind that felt comforting rather than awkward. Then, without thinking, Jinsol reached out, lacing their fingers together. Yoona looked down at their intertwined hands before squeezing back.
"You know," Yoona murmured, looking at the lock they had just placed. "This is your first, right?"
"My first what?" Jinsol asked, tilting her head.
"Your first lock. Your first date. Your first love."
Jinsol blinked, realizing Yoona was right. It was.
"...Yeah," she admitted, voice softer now. "You're my first everything."
Yoona let out a small laugh, but it was filled with warmth. She reached up, brushing Jinsol’s hair back before resting her palm on her cheek. “That’s really cute, you know? You’re cute.”
Jinsol, for once, was at a loss for words. Her heart pounded in her chest, her mind scrambling to come up with a cool response, but nothing came. Instead, Yoona leaned in, placing a soft kiss on her cheek before whispering, “Come on. Let’s take a picture.”
Jinsol could only nod, still dazed.
They took a picture in front of the railing, the city lights glowing behind them. Yoona, as usual, had a bright, happy grin. Jinsol, who never really smiled in photos, found herself with a small but genuine one.
Maybe this was cheesy. Maybe this was just a silly tradition.
But somehow, she knew—this moment, this night, this promise—was something she would never forget.
As they walked around, Jinsol suddenly stopped in her tracks, her grip on Yoona’s hand tightening slightly.
Yoona turned to her, confused. “What’s wrong?”
Jinsol narrowed her eyes, glancing back at the lock they had just placed. “Be honest with me… How many people have you brought here before?” Her voice was casual, but the hint of jealousy was unmistakable.
Yoona blinked, then let out a sudden laugh. “Oh my God, are you jealous?”
Jinsol scoffed, looking away. “I’m just asking. You seem… way too familiar with this place.”
Yoona grinned, absolutely delighted by this rare moment of possessiveness from Jinsol. She playfully bumped their shoulders together. “Don’t worry, you’re the only one I’ve ever written my name with.”
Jinsol squinted at her, clearly still skeptical. “You hesitated.”
“I did not!” Yoona gasped dramatically. “I was just being dramatic for effect. I promise, you’re the first.”
Jinsol still didn’t look fully convinced, so Yoona decided to tease her even more. She leaned in, whispering in Jinsol’s ear, “But if you want, we can put a hundred more locks with our names to make sure you’re the only one.”
Jinsol immediately pulled back, her ears red. “You’re so annoying.”
Yoona burst into laughter, wrapping her arms around Jinsol’s waist. “But you love me anyway.”
Jinsol huffed but didn’t push her away. “...Yeah, princess.”
Yoona smiled victoriously, resting her head against Jinsol’s shoulder. “Good. Because I love you too.”
Jinsol sighed, knowing that no matter how much Yoona teased her, she could never stay mad for long. And deep down, she was happy. Because no matter what, Yoona was hers.
Yoona had excused herself to go to the restroom, waving Jinsol off when she instinctively tried to follow.
“I’ll be fine, babe. Just wait here,” Yoona had said with a teasing smile, ruffling Jinsol’s hair before disappearing into the crowd.
Jinsol sighed, crossing her arms as she leaned against the railing of the tower. The view of the city lights stretching beneath them was beautiful, but her mind was too focused on Yoona. She checked her phone, scrolling absentmindedly, then checked the time.
Five minutes.
She glanced toward the direction of the restrooms, still no sign of Yoona.
Ten minutes.
Her brows furrowed. That was too long. Even for Yoona, who loved to get distracted easily.
Jinsol straightened, her body already on high alert. Something didn’t feel right. She scanned the area, hoping to catch a glimpse of Yoona’s bright smile walking back toward her. But there was nothing.
Fifteen minutes.
That was it. She wasn’t waiting anymore. Jinsol pushed through the crowd, her heart pounding faster with each step toward the restrooms.
“Yoona?” she called, her voice firm but not too loud.
No answer.
She walked faster, her gut tightening in anxiety. And that’s when she noticed something—down the hall, just past the restrooms, the exit door was slightly ajar. A small, creeping feeling of dread washed over her.
Jinsol’s hand clenched into a fist as she hurried toward the door, pushing it open.
The cold night air hit her face.
And Yoona was nowhere to be seen.
The piercing screams from above sent a chill down Jinsol’s spine. She didn’t waste a second—her hands reached for her suit, swiftly securing the mask over her face.
She knew this would happen.
Her instincts had been screaming at her the moment Yoona took too long. Jinsol ran back toward the stairs, pushing past panicked people rushing in the opposite direction. She climbed the steps two at a time, her breath steady, her mind sharp.
When she reached the top of the tower, chaos unfolded before her eyes.
Smoke filled the air. People cowered against the railings, trying to get as far as possible from the center, where a dark figure stood among the destruction.
Erebus.
And in his grip—Yoona.
Jinsol’s heart clenched at the sight. Yoona struggled, her arms pinned behind her, a sharp blade dangerously close to her throat. Despite the fear in her eyes, she was glaring at Erebus, fighting against his hold.
Specter took a slow, controlled breath before stepping forward.
“Let her go.” Her voice was sharp, commanding.
Erebus let out a low chuckle, tilting his head as he eyed her. “You came faster than I expected.” He tightened his grip on Yoona, making her wince. “Guess this little princess really is your weakness.”
Jinsol clenched her fists. She needed to act fast. She couldn’t afford to let her emotions cloud her judgment—not when Yoona’s life was on the line.
Erebus smirked. “Let’s see how strong you really are, Specter.”
And with that, he threw Yoona over the railing.
Jinsol’s breath caught in her throat as she watched Yoona’s body get hurled through the air, twisting in pain. Time seemed to slow.
“No!” Jinsol launched herself forward, sprinting toward the railing.
Yoona crashed onto the lower platform of the tower, slamming hard against the metal. A pained scream tore from her throat, her body curling up in agony.
Jinsol didn’t think—she moved. Jumping over the railing, she used her upgraded suit’s grapple to swing herself down toward Yoona. She landed with a rough roll, immediately scrambling to her.
“Yoona—” Jinsol’s voice cracked as she carefully held her, scanning for injuries. Blood trickled from a gash on Yoona’s forehead. Her body was trembling, her breathing uneven.
“Damn it…” Jinsol cursed under her breath. Yoona was hurt. Badly.
Above them, Erebus laughed. “She’s fragile, isn’t she?” he taunted. “That was barely anything, and look at her.”
Jinsol’s hands tightened into fists. She felt rage boiling inside her, but Yoona weakly reached for her wrist.
“Don’t… don’t go…” Yoona’s voice was barely a whisper.
Jinsol swallowed hard. She was torn. She needed to stop Erebus, but she couldn't leave Yoona like this.
Jinsol gently cupped Yoona’s face. “Stay awake for me, okay?”
Yoona gave a weak smile. “You… look mad.”
Jinsol’s eyes burned with fury as she turned back up to Erebus.
He wanted to see her break?
Fine.
She was done holding back.
Jinsol stood, her body shaking—not with fear, not with exhaustion, but with pure, unfiltered rage.
She could hear Yoona’s weak breathing behind her, could still see the way she had been tossed aside like she was nothing. The memory of Yoona’s pained expression burned in her mind.
Jinsol barely had time to react before Erebus moved again—fast. A gust of wind blasted against her as his hand shot forward, gripping Yoona by the collar and yanking her off the ground.
“Ah—!” Yoona gasped, struggling weakly.
Jinsol lunged, but Erebus jumped back, lifting Yoona higher as if she were nothing more than a ragdoll.
“Let. Her. Go.” Jinsol’s voice was deadly quiet, her entire body tensed like a spring ready to snap.
Erebus only grinned. “And why would I? You’ve taken everything from me, Specter. Maybe it’s time I return the favor.”
Jinsol clenched her fists. She needed to be careful. Yoona was already injured—one wrong move and Erebus could…
Her heartbeat pounded in her ears.
“I can break her right now,” Erebus continued, tightening his grip slightly. “Snap her like a twig. And you’d watch.”
Jinsol’s breath hitched.
Yoona, despite her pain, managed to glare at him. “You talk too much,” she rasped.
Erebus chuckled darkly. “Oh, I like you. But that mouth won’t save you.”
Jinsol didn’t hesitate this time. With a sharp movement, she pressed a hidden switch on her suit. Smoke burst from her gloves, covering the area in thick, blinding fog.
“Damn it—!” Erebus cursed.
Using the cover, Jinsol launched herself forward. She only had seconds. If she miscalculated, Yoona would—
No. She wouldn’t let that happen.
Jinsol reached out—Yoona was slipping from Erebus’s grasp—her fingers brushed against Yoona’s sleeve—
Then Erebus moved. Fast.
Yoona’s scream was the last thing Jinsol heard before she felt a sudden, sharp impact—then nothing but open air beneath her feet.
Jinsol barely had time to process what happened. One second, she was reaching for Yoona, the next—her balance was gone. Erebus had knocked her back, and now she was falling.
Her heart lurched as the night air rushed past her, the city lights blurring below.
Jinsol gritted her teeth and activated the grappling hook built into her suit. The mechanism shot out, latching onto the tower’s railing just in time. With a sharp tug, she swung her body and landed hard on a lower platform. Pain shot up her leg, but she forced herself up.
Above her, Erebus still held Yoona.
Jinsol’s chest heaved. The way Yoona dangled in his grasp—her body limp, her eyes barely open—made something snap inside her.
This wasn’t just about Specter and Erebus anymore. This wasn’t just about stopping a villain.
This was personal.
Jinsol launched herself upward, grappling hook pulling her back onto the main platform. Erebus turned, his smirk widening.
“Persistent,” he mused. “But what will you do now? Another step, and I’ll drop her.”
Jinsol froze. She couldn’t rush in recklessly. If she did, Yoona—
Yoona groaned softly, eyes fluttering open. Even in her weakened state, she managed to focus on Jinsol.
“Don’t,” she whispered, barely audible.
Jinsol’s breath caught. She knew what Yoona meant.
Don’t give in. Don’t let him win.
Jinsol clenched her fists. She needed to be smart about this.
Erebus laughed—low and cruel—as he let go of Yoona.
No. No, no, no—
Jinsol’s eyes widened in horror as Yoona’s body dropped. Time seemed to slow, her scream caught in her throat. Without hesitation, she dove after her.
Wind howled past them as they plummeted from the top of the tower. Yoona’s eyes barely opened, dazed from the impact of Erebus’s grip. Jinsol reached out, fingers stretching, desperate—
Got her.
Jinsol’s arms wrapped tightly around Yoona, pulling her close as they fell through the night sky. But they were still too high up. If they hit the ground like this—
She twisted her body midair, activating the emergency grappling hook in her suit. The cable shot out, latching onto the metal framework of the tower. The force of the sudden stop nearly tore her shoulder from its socket, but she held on.
They swung hard, crashing onto a nearby rooftop. Jinsol landed first, taking most of the impact as they rolled. Pain exploded through her ribs, but she didn’t care.
Yoona was safe.
Jinsol coughed, struggling to sit up. Yoona lay beside her, eyes fluttering open. She groaned in pain but managed to turn her head.
“You caught me…” Yoona whispered weakly.
“Of course I did.” Jinsol reached out, brushing Yoona’s hair from her face. “I always will.”
Yoona gave a small, breathless laugh, but her eyes held something deeper—something fragile. She lifted a shaky hand, cupping Jinsol’s face.
Before Jinsol could say anything else, a shadow loomed above them.
Erebus had jumped down, landing effortlessly on the rooftop with them. His expression was unreadable, but his amusement was gone.
“You’re stubborn,” he mused, cracking his knuckles. “But you can’t protect her forever.”
Jinsol gritted her teeth, her body screaming in protest as she forced herself up.
She had to end this.
Erebus was relentless.
Every time Jinsol thought she had him cornered, he would slip away—only to appear again, striking when she was distracted. He was toying with her, taking pleasure in her exhaustion, her frustration. And worst of all, he kept reaching for Yoona.
Jinsol barely had time to react before he lunged again. She shoved Yoona behind her and blocked the incoming punch, but the force sent her skidding backward. Her body ached, her breath ragged.
“You’re getting slower, Specter.” Erebus smirked, eyes gleaming. “How long can you keep this up?”
Jinsol wiped the blood from her lip, glaring. “Long enough to send you straight to hell.”
Erebus chuckled darkly. “Bold words.” Then, without warning, he changed directions—moving straight for Yoona.
Jinsol’s heart stopped.
“Yoona, run—!”
But before Yoona could move, Erebus grabbed her wrist and yanked her toward him. She let out a sharp gasp, struggling in his grip.
“Let her go!” Jinsol lunged, aiming a kick at his side, but Erebus spun Yoona in front of him like a shield.
Jinsol froze mid-attack.
“Tch. So predictable,” Erebus mused, his grip on Yoona tightening.
Yoona whimpered in pain. Jinsol’s fists clenched, rage boiling in her veins. She had to do something—but one wrong move and Yoona could get seriously hurt.
Erebus leaned in close to Yoona’s ear, his voice dripping with mockery. “You know, you’re quite the nuisance. Always in the way, always making Specter hesitate. If I take you out of the picture…”
“Don’t you dare,” Jinsol growled.
Erebus smirked at her reaction. Then, without hesitation, he let go of Yoona—only to slam his palm into her stomach, sending her flying across the rooftop.
“YOONA!”
Jinsol sprinted toward her, sliding on her knees to catch Yoona before she rolled off the edge. Yoona gasped, clutching onto Jinsol weakly, pain evident in her face.
Jinsol gently cradled her, panic settling deep in her chest. “Hey, hey, stay with me—are you okay?”
Yoona coughed, nodding slightly. “I’m… okay…”
But she wasn’t. She was hurt, and it was all Jinsol’s fault for not being fast enough.
A cruel laugh echoed behind them.
“I can do this all night,” Erebus taunted. “How many more times do I have to throw her before you break?”
Jinsol clenched her jaw.
He was right. This wasn’t just about fighting anymore. Erebus wanted to shatter her, to make her helpless, to make her watch as he tore Yoona apart.
And she refused to let that happen.
Jinsol carefully set Yoona down, brushing the hair from her face. “Stay here,” she whispered, her voice firm. “I’ll end this.”
Before Yoona could protest, Jinsol stood up, turning to face Erebus.
This time, she wasn’t just fighting for the city.
She was fighting for Yoona.
Yoona had never felt pain like this before. It wasn’t just one wound, one sharp sting she could focus on—it was everywhere. Her body screamed in agony, each movement sending fresh waves of pain crashing over her. The deep gash along her side throbbed, her ribs felt like they were caving in, and every breath was a struggle. The metallic taste of blood lingered on her tongue, and her vision blurred, dark spots creeping at the edges.
But she couldn’t stop.
She had to be strong. For Jinsol.
Yoona knew Jinsol was fighting desperately, her every move fueled by rage and desperation. She could hear the sharp clashes of fists and weapons, the crackle of fire from Erebus’s attacks, and Jinsol’s ragged breathing as she fought harder than she ever had before. And yet, Yoona could do nothing but lay there, her body unresponsive, her limbs numb and cold.
Her fingers twitched, barely able to grasp the reality of the situation. She wanted to stand, to reach for Jinsol, to do anything other than just be a helpless target. But her body refused to cooperate. Pain wrapped around her like chains, restricting her from moving, from helping.
She clenched her jaw, forcing her eyes to stay open.
Not yet.
She couldn't let herself slip away. Not when Jinsol was still fighting, not when she still had something left to hold on to.
She tried to lift her hand, but it barely moved an inch. Her chest tightened, the pain unbearable, but she refused to cry out. If Jinsol heard her struggling, she might falter.
Don’t distract her. Don’t make her worry.
Another sharp jolt of pain surged through her, making her entire body tremble. A strangled gasp escaped her lips, but she bit down hard, refusing to scream. She had to endure this. She had to keep her eyes on Jinsol, to let her know she was still here, still fighting in her own way.
The sounds around her became distant, muffled as if she were underwater. Erebus’s laughter, Jinsol’s furious shouts, the crackling fire—it all faded into a dull hum.
Her body was giving up.
No.
She wouldn’t let it.
She dug her nails into her palm, trying to force herself to stay grounded. The pain was unbearable, her mind screaming at her to just let go, to surrender to the darkness threatening to consume her. But she refused.
She had promised herself—no, she had promised Jinsol—that she would be strong. That she would stay by her side.
A weak smile flickered on her lips, even as blood dripped down her chin.
She would hold on for as long as she could.
For Jinsol.
Jinsol stood, her body shaking—not with fear, not with exhaustion, but with pure, unfiltered rage.
She could hear Yoona’s weak breathing behind her, could still see the way she had been tossed aside like she was nothing. The memory of Yoona’s pained expression burned in her mind.
And then, everything else faded.
Erebus had made a mistake.
A deadly one.
“You’re done,” Jinsol growled, her voice lower, colder than ever.
Erebus tilted his head, a mocking grin curling on his lips. “Oh? Did I finally get under your skin?”
Jinsol didn’t answer. She lunged.
Faster than she ever had before.
Erebus barely had time to react before Jinsol’s fist collided with his face. The impact sent him staggering backward, shock flashing across his features.
But Jinsol didn’t stop.
She grabbed him by the collar and slammed her knee into his stomach, knocking the wind out of him. As he gasped, she spun, delivering a brutal kick to his ribs, sending him crashing against the rooftop railing.
Erebus groaned, gripping his side. “Tch—”
Before he could recover, Jinsol was already there.
She grabbed his wrist, twisting it sharply until she heard a sickening crack. Erebus yelled in pain, swinging wildly at her with his other hand. Jinsol dodged effortlessly, her reflexes sharper, her body moving on instinct.
She had fought Erebus countless times. But this time, she wasn’t just fighting to stop him.
She was fighting to make him pay.
Jinsol delivered a punch straight to his jaw. Then another. Then another. Blood splattered against her gloves, but she didn’t care. She kept going, fists slamming into him with every ounce of fury she had.
“This is for every time you tried to destroy this city.”
Punch.
“This is for every innocent person you’ve hurt.”
Punch.
“This is for Yoona.”
She grabbed him by the collar and hurled him onto the ground. Erebus coughed violently, his body barely moving. But Jinsol wasn’t finished.
She stood over him, her foot pressing against his chest, pinning him down.
Erebus gritted his teeth, eyes glaring up at her. “You think… you’ve won?” He spat blood onto the rooftop. “You’re just like me. You—”
Jinsol pressed down harder, cutting him off.
“I am nothing like you,” she hissed.
Erebus choked, struggling beneath her weight. His once-arrogant smirk was gone, replaced by something else—fear.
For the first time, he realized.
Jinsol wasn’t holding back anymore.
A part of her wanted to end it right here, to make sure he never laid a hand on Yoona again.
But she couldn’t.
She wasn’t like him.
She wasn’t a monster.
Instead, she leaned down, voice dangerously low.
“If you ever touch her again,” she whispered, “I will make sure you never walk away from our fight.”
She pulled back just as the sound of sirens filled the air. The authorities were arriving.
Jinsol let go, stepping away. Erebus coughed violently, barely able to move. He knew he had lost.
Jinsol turned her back to him, walking toward Yoona. She knelt down, gently cupping Yoona’s face.
“Hey,” she whispered, brushing a tear from Yoona’s cheek. “It’s over.”
Jinsol’s entire world slowed down the moment Yoona’s body went limp in her arms.
She felt it before she even saw it. The warmth seeping into her fingers, the sticky, unmistakable feeling of blood soaking through Yoona’s clothes.
“No…” Jinsol’s voice was hoarse, barely above a whisper. Her breath caught in her throat as she slowly pulled back to look at Yoona’s face.
Yoona’s eyes fluttered, struggling to stay open, her lips parting slightly as if she wanted to say something. But no words came out.
Jinsol’s heart dropped.
She frantically scanned Yoona’s body until her gaze landed on the deep, dark stain spreading across her side. The wound was bad—too bad. The cut was deep, and the blood just kept coming, pouring out of Yoona like a river Jinsol couldn’t stop.
Jinsol felt like she couldn’t breathe.
Her hands trembled as she pressed against the wound, desperately trying to stop the bleeding. “No, no, no, please,” she muttered, her voice cracking. “Yoona, stay with me.”
Yoona’s body shivered weakly under Jinsol’s touch. Her breath was shaky, barely audible.
“You’re… crying,” Yoona whispered, a weak smile tugging at her lips.
Jinsol blinked, only then realizing that her cheeks were wet.
Tears.
She never cried. Not as Specter, not as Jinsol. But right now, as she held the most important person in her life slipping away in her arms, she couldn’t stop herself.
Jinsol shook her head, gripping Yoona tighter, as if holding her closer would be enough to keep her alive. “I don’t care,” she choked out. “I don’t care if I’m crying, just—just stay with me, okay?”
Yoona’s fingers twitched slightly, barely gripping onto Jinsol’s suit. “You always got me…” she murmured, her voice so soft, so fragile.
Jinsol felt like something inside her shattered.
“Of course I do, baby.” Jinsol’s voice wavered as she carefully cradled Yoona closer, pressing a trembling kiss to her forehead. “Always. So you have to stay with me. Please.”
But Yoona’s eyelids were getting heavier.
Jinsol’s panic surged.
No, she couldn’t let her pass out. She couldn’t let her body shut down.
Her mind screamed at her to move.
Now.
She ignored the burning in her legs, the sharp ache in her own wounds, and lifted Yoona up into her arms. She was barely conscious, her head lolling against Jinsol’s shoulder, her breath shallow.
As Jinsol carefully lifted Yoona into her arms, a sharp gasp escaped from Yoona’s lips.
She winced, her fingers weakly clutching at Jinsol’s suit. “Jinsol…”she murmured, barely able to form words through the pain.
Jinsol’s heart clenched at the sound.
“I know, baby, I know,” she whispered, voice thick with emotion. “I’msorry. Just hold on, okay?”
Yoona’s breathing was ragged, her body trembling against Jinsol’s chest, but she didn’t complain. She just buried her face into the crook of Jinsol’s neck, as if seeking comfort.
Jinsol held her even closer, tightening her grip as she ran.
She ran like her life depended on it.
No—like Yoona’s life depended on it.
The streets were still filled with chaos. The aftermath of Erebus’s attack left smoke, rubble, and terrified civilians in its wake. Sirens wailed in the distance, but they weren’t close enough.
Jinsol didn’t have time to wait.
Her heart pounded as she zigzagged through the destruction, dodging debris and weaving between the panicked crowds. Every step sent jolts of pain through her body, but she didn’t care.
All she could focus on was the weak rise and fall of Yoona’s chest against hers.
But it was slowing down.
Jinsol’s grip tightened around Yoona as pure terror wrapped around her heart like a vice.
She could not lose her.
Not like this.
“Almost there, baby,” Jinsol whispered, her voice shaking. “Just hold on a little longer, okay?”
Yoona barely made a sound in response.
Jinsol’s breath hitched.
No.
Her vision blurred with fresh tears, but she didn’t stop.
Faster.
She had to be faster.
She wasn’t Bae Jinsol right now. She wasn’t Specter.
She was just a girl holding the love of her life, desperate to keep her breathing.
Jinsol’s legs screamed at her to stop. Her lungs burned. But she pushed forward, sprinting through the streets like a madwoman.
Then, finally, she saw it—the hospital.
Relief hit her so hard that she nearly stumbled, but she forced herself to stay upright.
Before Yoona’s world faded into darkness, memories of Jinsol flooded her mind—soft laughter over shared meals, Jinsol’s awkward yet adorable jealousy, the warmth of Jinsol’s hand in hers, their first kiss under the city lights, and the way Jinsol always looked at her like she was the most precious thing in the world.
A faint, tired smile formed on her lips despite the searing pain in her body. She could still feel Jinsol holding her so tightly, so protectively, as if sheer willpower could keep her alive.
With the last of her strength, Yoona whispered something, her voice barely above a breath. “I love you…”
And then, her body went limp in Jinsol’s arms, her world fading into black.
The moment she reached the emergency entrance, she screamed for help.
Doctors and nurses rushed forward, and suddenly, hands were pulling Yoona away from her. Jinsol fought the instinct to hold on, to not let her go, but she had to.
She had to let them save her.
“Please,” Jinsol begged, voice breaking. “Please, save her.”
They wheeled Yoona away, and just like that, she was gone.
Jinsol stood there, her hands stained red, her body trembling, her mind reeling.
For the first time since this nightmare started—since she became Specter, since she met Erebus, since she realized she loved Yoona more than anything—
She felt utterly helpless.
Haewon, Kyujin, Jiwoo, and Lily rushed into the hospital, their footsteps echoing through the sterile hallways. The moment they spotted Jinsol sitting in the waiting area, their hearts clenched.
She looked… broken.
Jinsol sat hunched over, elbows resting on her knees, her hands clasped so tightly together that her knuckles were white. Blood stained her clothes—Yoona’s blood. Her face was pale, dark circles under her eyes, and she looked like she hadn’t even blinked since arriving. She barely reacted when her friends approached.
“Jinsol…” Haewon hesitated, afraid of what to say.
Jiwoo sat beside her, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder. “Is there any news?”
Jinsol finally moved, slowly looking up at them. Her eyes were red, filled with an exhaustion so deep it hurt to look at. Her voice was hoarse when she spoke. “She lost a lot of blood… They took her into surgery.” Her hands trembled as she squeezed them into fists. “I should’ve— I should’ve been faster.”
Kyujin shook her head firmly. “Don’t do that to yourself.”
But Jinsol wasn’t listening. Her mind was replaying everything—Yoona’s pained screams, the way her body had gone limp in her arms, how helpless she felt as she watched Yoona bleed out.
Lily sat on the other side of her and whispered, “She’s strong, Jinsol. She’s going to fight.”
Jinsol swallowed hard, her throat burning. “She has to.”
The group fell into silence, waiting, hoping—praying.
Jinsol had never felt time move so painfully slow. The wait stretched endlessly, the weight of uncertainty pressing down on her chest like an unbearable burden. Every tick of the clock above the hospital reception desk was like a needle pressing into her skin—sharp, agonizing, and completely out of her control.
She sat on the stiff hospital chair, her body unmoving, her fingers gripping the hem of her jacket so tightly that her nails nearly tore through the fabric. Her entire body ached, not just from the bruises and cuts she had sustained, but from the sheer exhaustion that had settled deep into her bones. She hadn’t even noticed the pain until now. But none of it mattered. None of it compared to the worry that consumed her.
Yoona.
The image of her—weak, bloodied, her body limp in Jinsol’s arms—kept flashing in her mind, haunting her like a nightmare she couldn’t wake up from. She had been so warm when Jinsol held her, but the warmth had been slipping away, second by second. That terrified Jinsol the most.
The others were with her, but she barely registered their presence. Haewon, Jiwoo, Kyujin, and Lily all sat close by, equally tense, equally worried. Haewon kept running a hand through her hair, sighing heavily every few minutes. Jiwoo had her hands pressed to her face, fingers trembling slightly. Kyujin had gone completely silent, her arms crossed over her chest, staring at the floor as if deep in thought. And Lily… Lily kept glancing at her phone, as if checking for updates that wouldn’t come.
No one spoke. No one dared to break the fragile silence.
Jinsol’s head felt heavy, but she refused to let it drop. She couldn’t close her eyes. The moment she did, she would see Yoona’s face again—the pain in her eyes, the way she smiled weakly before whispering those last words to Jinsol, the way her body had gone still.
Jinsol bit down on her lip so hard that she tasted blood.
The hospital was cold. The waiting chairs were uncomfortable. The fluorescent lights above buzzed faintly. Everything around her was loud and quiet at the same time.
She didn’t know how long they had been waiting. Minutes? Hours? It felt like forever.
Every time a nurse walked past, Jinsol’s head snapped up, but none of them stopped. Her heart clenched painfully each time, a horrible mix of desperation and helplessness swirling inside her.
What if Yoona didn’t wake up?
No. Jinsol shook her head slightly, refusing to think like that. Yoona was strong. She had to be. She had to wake up. She had to.
Jinsol’s fingers curled into fists, her nails digging into her palms. She wanted to scream, to break something, to fight someone—but there was no one to fight. This wasn’t a battle she could win with her fists. She couldn’t throw a punch to fix this. She couldn’t shield Yoona from the pain anymore.
She hated it. She hated how powerless she felt.
The doors to the emergency room remained closed, mocking her with their silence.
And the wait continued.
Jinsol sat in the cold, sterile waiting area, her fingers trembling as they clutched onto the fabric of her pants. The walls around her felt like they were closing in, suffocating her, drowning her in the weight of uncertainty. The others were around—Haewon, Kyujin, Jiwoo, Lily—but their voices were distant, muffled by the loud pounding of her own heartbeat in her ears.
The second the doctor stepped out, Jinsol shot up from her seat, almost tripping over herself in desperation.
“How is she?” The words barely came out. Her throat was dry, her voice hoarse from the screaming and crying earlier.
The doctor gave her a reassuring nod. “She made it through surgery. She lost a lot of blood, but she’s stable for now. However, the next twenty-four hours will be critical.”
Jinsol’s knees almost buckled, but she forced herself to stand tall. Stable. Yoona was stable. But she wasn’t awake yet. She hadn’t opened her eyes, hadn’t smiled that bright, teasing smile, hadn’t scolded Jinsol for being reckless before throwing herself into danger like she always did.
“Can I see her?” Jinsol asked, her voice cracking.
The doctor hesitated for a moment before nodding. “Only for a little while.”
Jinsol didn’t wait for anything else. She rushed past them, her footsteps echoing in the empty hallway as she made her way to Yoona’s room. Her hands were shaking as she pushed open the door, and the sight before her nearly knocked the air from her lungs.
Yoona lay motionless on the hospital bed, her body wrapped in bandages, an IV drip attached to her arm. The beeping of the heart monitor was the only sound in the room, its steady rhythm both comforting and terrifying. Jinsol’s vision blurred as she slowly walked closer, every step feeling heavier than the last.
She carefully sat down beside the bed, her hands hovering over Yoona’s before finally gathering the courage to take it. Her fingers traced over the soft skin, over the bruises and cuts. She hated seeing Yoona like this—so fragile, so still.
Jinsol swallowed hard, trying to find the words, but they were stuck in her throat, suffocated by guilt and grief.
“You scared me,” she finally whispered, her voice barely above a breath. “You really scared me, Yoona.”
Her free hand wiped at her face, but the tears wouldn’t stop. A shaky laugh escaped her lips, bitter and exhausted.
“You always do this. You run headfirst into danger like you don’t care what happens to you. Like I wouldn’t lose my mind if something happened to you.” Jinsol clenched her jaw, gripping Yoona’s hand tighter. “I should’ve been faster. I should’ve been stronger. I should’ve stopped him before he could—”
Her voice broke. She let out a shaky breath, closing her eyes for a second to compose herself. But the second she opened them, she was met with the sight of Yoona’s lifeless-looking body, and it shattered her all over again.
Her thumb brushed lightly over the back of Yoona’s hand, her voice softer now.
“I don’t know what I’d do without you.” Her lips trembled as she spoke. “So please… wake up. Please.”
She brought Yoona’s hand up to her lips, pressing a long, lingering kiss to her knuckles. Her tears dripped onto the sheets as she lowered their hands, resting her forehead against them.
“I love you,” she murmured, the words breaking as they left her lips. “So please… come back to me.”
The heart monitor beeped steadily beside her, a cruel reminder of how still Yoona was. Jinsol didn’t care how long she had to wait. She would stay by her side, for as long as it took.
Jinsol barely registered the moment she stepped into her apartment. The place felt empty, lifeless—just like the hollow feeling in her chest. She dropped her bag onto the floor without a second thought, her body moving on autopilot as she walked towards her bedroom.
She sat on the edge of the bed, her hands resting on her knees, her mind a whirlwind of exhaustion and pain. With a deep, shaky breath, she reached into her pocket and pulled out her phone. The screen lit up, and there it was—her lock screen.
It was a picture of her and Yoona, one she had taken secretly while Yoona was laughing at something dumb she said. Yoona had her head tilted slightly, eyes crinkled in pure joy, her smile so bright it could outshine the sun. Jinsol remembered that day so clearly—they had gone out for ice cream, arguing over flavors before settling on sharing one. Yoona had wiped ice cream on her nose just to be annoying, and Jinsol had chased her down the street in revenge.
A bitter smile tugged at Jinsol’s lips, but it disappeared just as quickly. That was just a few days ago. And now…
She clenched her jaw, her fingers gripping the phone tighter. Yoona should’ve been here, teasing her, laughing, filling this empty space with warmth. Instead, she was lying in a hospital bed, unconscious, fighting for her life.
Jinsol felt her throat tighten, the pressure in her chest becoming unbearable. She placed the phone on the bedside table, face down, unable to look at it any longer. It was too much. Everything was too much.
She lay down, staring at the ceiling, but no matter how much she tried to close her eyes, sleep wouldn’t come. The only thing she could see was Yoona’s face—the way she had smiled before losing consciousness, the whispered words Jinsol barely caught.
She turned onto her side, curling into herself. Her hands gripped the blanket as silent tears slipped down her face, soaking into the fabric.
“Please be okay, Yoona,” she whispered into the empty room.
But there was no answer. Only the quiet hum of the night, and the deafening sound of her own broken heart.
Jinsol sat motionless on the couch, her gaze locked onto the television screen. The news anchor’s voice felt distant, almost muffled, as she processed the words being spoken.
"Breaking news—after weeks of terrorizing the city, the infamous criminal known as Erebus has been captured. Authorities have confirmed that he was apprehended late last night in a high-security operation. He is now in custody, awaiting trial for his crimes, including multiple counts of destruction, assault, and attempted murder."
A grainy video played on the screen, showing Erebus being dragged away by heavily armed officers. His hands were bound in thick restraints, his face twisted in rage as he struggled against them. His mask had been ripped away, revealing his face to the world for the first time. Jinsol recognized that expression—the unfiltered hatred, the frustration of being outmatched. But for the first time, she saw something else. Fear.
She should have felt relief. She should have felt victorious.
But all she felt was emptiness.
Her fingers curled into the fabric of her sweatpants. Erebus was the reason Yoona was lying in a hospital bed right now. The reason she had been forced to watch the love of her life bleed out in her arms, helpless. The reason she had spent the past nights drowning in guilt, unable to close her eyes without seeing Yoona’s face contorted in pain.
Yet, even with Erebus captured, Yoona was still unconscious. Still fighting.
A sudden wave of anger surged through Jinsol, her jaw tightening. This isn’t over. It won’t be over until Yoona wakes up.
She grabbed the remote and turned off the TV. The silence in the room pressed down on her, suffocating.
Jinsol sat on the cold bathroom floor, the only sound filling the room was her unsteady breathing. The mirror in front of her reflected the mess she had become—bruises darkening her skin, a gash on her arm still oozing blood, and the deep exhaustion in her eyes.
She grabbed the first-aid kit from the cabinet, her hands slightly trembling as she pulled out the disinfectant. She didn’t even flinch when the antiseptic stung her open wounds. The pain felt distant, almost insignificant compared to the ache in her chest.
Biting down on her lip, she wrapped gauze around her arm, securing it tightly. She had done this countless times before, tending to her own injuries after battles as Specter. But this time, it felt different. There was no rush to get back on her feet for another fight. No adrenaline pushing her forward. Just silence.
She blinked, glancing down at her phone lying on the counter. The lock screen still showed a picture of her and Yoona—Yoona smiling brightly, her arms wrapped around Jinsol’s waist, while Jinsol tried (and failed) to hide her blush.
Jinsol exhaled shakily. Please, just wake up.
She placed the first-aid kit aside and leaned her head back against the wall, closing her eyes. For the first time in a long time, she let the exhaustion consume her.
The next day, Jinsol walked into campus as if nothing had happened. Her wounds were hidden beneath her uniform, her expression carefully composed. She smiled when necessary, nodded at familiar faces, and engaged in conversations with her classmates. If someone didn’t know any better, they’d think everything was fine.
But inside, she felt hollow.
Yoona’s usual spot next to her was empty. The absence was deafening. Jinsol could almost hear Yoona’s voice teasing her, feel the warmth of her presence beside her. But there was nothing. Just a cold, vacant seat.
As the day went on, some people took the opportunity to get closer to her. A few classmates who had always admired her from a distance suddenly found the courage to strike up conversations. Someone offered to share their notes with her, another invited her for lunch, and a few even flirted—light, playful comments that she would’ve ignored before.
Jinsol played along just enough to not raise suspicion, nodding, responding with small smiles, but never truly engaging. Her mind was elsewhere.
She hated this.
She hated that people only got close now that Yoona wasn’t around. Hated that they didn’t know—couldn’t know—how much she was hurting. How much she wanted to be somewhere else.
“Jinsol, hey!” A girl from the front row turned around, leaning on her desk. “You didn’t come to the café with us yesterday. Everything okay?”
“Yeah,” Jinsol replied smoothly, sliding into her seat. “Just busy.”
Another classmate, a guy who had never really spoken to her much before, suddenly pulled his chair closer. “We were actually talking about grabbing lunch later. You should come with us.”
Jinsol hesitated for a second before nodding. “Sure.”
The guy grinned. “Cool. We’ll meet outside after class.”
The professor entered, and the class began, but Jinsol barely registered a word of the lecture. Her eyes kept drifting to the chair beside her. If Yoona were here, she would’ve doodled on the edges of Jinsol’s notebook, whispering stupid jokes to make her laugh.
She clenched her fists under the table. Focus.
After class, as she packed her things, another girl approached her.
“Hey, Jinsol.” The girl tucked her hair behind her ear, her voice soft. “I know this is sudden, but… if you ever want to grab coffee or something, I’d love to.”
Jinsol blinked, taken aback. “Oh.”
“You don’t have to answer now,” the girl rushed to add. “Just, you know… let me know.”
Jinsol nodded, offering a polite smile. “Thanks. I’ll… think about it.”
As she stepped out of the classroom, her phone buzzed in her pocket. For a moment, her heart leaped, hoping it was Yoona. But of course, it wasn’t.
She exhaled sharply and shoved the phone back into her pocket.
No one knew what she was going through. No one knew how much she wanted to run back to the hospital, to sit by Yoona’s side, to hear her voice again.
But instead, she walked forward, pretending everything was fine.
Jinsol sat at the outdoor table with her classmates, a half-eaten sandwich on her plate. The guy from earlier was telling some story—she wasn’t really listening. She laughed when the others did, nodded when someone asked her something, but her mind was elsewhere.
Then her phone buzzed.
She glanced down, barely paying attention—until she saw the name on the screen. Lily.
Her fingers shook as she unlocked her phone.
Lily: Yoona woke up.
Jinsol’s breath hitched. The noise of the café faded into nothing. She stared at the words like they might disappear if she blinked.
Yoona was awake.
“Jinsol?” One of the girls waved a hand in front of her. “You okay?”
Jinsol shot up from her seat so fast her chair scraped against the ground. “Sorry—I have to go.” She didn’t wait for their responses. She was already running.
She pushed past students, nearly tripping over the steps, ignoring the confused glances from people she passed. Her heart pounded louder than her footsteps.
Yoona woke up.
She had to get to her. Now.
Yoona’s body felt like it was made of lead. Every muscle ached, every breath sent a dull, throbbing pain through her chest. Her mind was sluggish, as if swimming through murky water, but the pain was real—too real.
She blinked slowly, the white ceiling above her coming into focus. The fluorescent light hummed softly, casting a sterile glow over the room. The beeping of the heart monitor filled the silence, steady and rhythmic. The faint scent of antiseptic filled her nose.
Where… was she?
Her fingers twitched slightly against the thin hospital blanket draped over her. As the fog in her mind began to clear, flashes of memory returned. The fight. Erebus. The agony of being thrown around like a ragdoll. The unbearable, piercing pain of the blade sinking into her flesh. The feeling of her strength slipping away.
And then—Jinsol.
Jinsol’s voice, raw and desperate, calling her name. The warmth of Jinsol’s arms around her, holding her as the world darkened. The tears in her eyes. The way she had pleaded with her to stay awake.
Jinsol.
Yoona’s lips parted, the first word escaping in a weak whisper.
“…Jinsol.”
It was barely audible, her voice hoarse and fragile. But she tried again, a little louder this time.
“Jinsol…”
She wanted to see her. Needed to see her. Was she okay? Had she been hurt? Had she been here?
Her heart clenched painfully in her chest, and she swallowed hard, forcing back the lump in her throat. She shifted slightly, only to be met with a sharp jolt of pain radiating through her body. A quiet, pained whimper slipped past her lips.
Her vision blurred with unshed tears. She clenched the blanket, her nails digging into the fabric as she fought through the discomfort.
Where was she? Was Jinsol coming?
She turned her head slightly, trying to take in the empty room around her. There was no one. No warm presence beside her. No familiar voice telling her everything would be okay.
A tear slipped down her cheek as she closed her eyes.
“Jinsol…” she whispered again, her voice trembling.
And this time, she wasn’t sure if she was calling for her in the present or reaching out to the memory of her from before everything went dark.
The door swung open so forcefully it nearly slammed against the wall.
Jinsol stood there, her chest rising and falling rapidly, as if she had run all the way from campus. Her usually sharp, confident eyes were wide with disbelief, scanning the room until they landed on the person she had been dying to see.
Yoona.
She was awake.
Jinsol felt her breath hitch in her throat. She had imagined this moment over and over, and yet, standing here, seeing Yoona alive, she still felt like the air had been knocked out of her lungs.
Yoona’s head turned slowly at the sound, her tired eyes meeting Jinsol’s. There was a slight haze in them, exhaustion making them droopy, but when she saw who was at the door, a small, tired smile tugged at her lips.
“Took you long enough…” Her voice was hoarse, barely above a whisper.
Jinsol let out something between a relieved laugh and a choked sob. Her feet finally moved, and in just a few steps, she was at Yoona’s bedside. She wanted to hold her, to touch her, but she hesitated, her hands hovering just inches away as if afraid she would break her.
“You scared the hell out of me,” Jinsol said, her voice thick with emotion.
Yoona let out a weak chuckle, but the moment she did, pain shot through her ribs, making her wince. Her grip on the blanket tightened.
Jinsol was immediately alert, her hands hovering again. “Are you okay? Should I—should I call a nurse?”
Yoona slowly shook her head. “I’m fine.”
Jinsol scoffed at that. “You got stabbed, Yoona.” Her voice cracked slightly.
Yoona exhaled softly, her smile faint. “Yeah, I noticed.”
Jinsol swallowed, her fingers gripping the edge of the hospital bed as she let out a shaky breath.
There was a long silence between them. A silence filled with everything neither of them knew how to say.
Then, in the softest motion, Yoona reached out a trembling hand toward Jinsol. Without hesitation, Jinsol took it, cradling it between her own like something fragile and precious.
Yoona’s fingers curled around hers, warm despite the IV attached to her wrist.
Jinsol squeezed gently, grounding herself. She let out a long breath before finally whispering, “You almost died.”
Yoona’s eyes softened. She could see the exhaustion, the guilt, the sheer torment in Jinsol’s face.
“But I didn’t,” she whispered. “I’m still here.”
Jinsol clenched her jaw, her grip tightening just slightly. “You could’ve—” She cut herself off, shaking her head. “I should’ve been faster. I should’ve—”
“Stop.” Yoona’s fingers weakly squeezed Jinsol’s. “Jinsol, stop.”
Jinsol looked at her, her lips pressing into a thin line.
“You were there,” Yoona whispered. “When it mattered the most, you were there. That’s all I needed.”
Jinsol swallowed hard, blinking away the sting in her eyes. Her thumb ran gently over Yoona’s knuckles, memorizing the feeling of her hand, of her warmth, of the fact that she was still here.
Then, after a long, shaky breath, she lowered her head and pressed a lingering kiss to Yoona’s hand.
Yoona’s heart swelled. It ached—not just from the pain in her body, but from the sheer love radiating from Jinsol in that simple action.
Jinsol stayed like that for a moment, forehead resting lightly against their joined hands, before finally lifting her head, her eyes shining with emotions too heavy to name.
“I love you,” she whispered. It wasn’t a confession; it was a promise.
Yoona’s breath hitched. Tears gathered at the corners of her eyes, but she still smiled, her fingers reaching up weakly to brush against Jinsol’s cheek.
“I love you too,” she whispered back.
Jinsol leaned in, pressing a feather-light kiss to her forehead, lingering there, memorizing her warmth.
And for the first time since waking up, Yoona felt safe.
The morning sun streamed through the curtains of Jinsol’s apartment, casting a warm glow over the room. The air smelled like fresh coffee, the faint clinking of cups from the kitchen filling the space as Jinsol moved around, preparing breakfast. It had been a long, exhausting week of running back and forth to the hospital, making sure Yoona was okay, making sure she ate properly, making sure she didn’t overexert herself.
Now, finally, Yoona was discharged. And Jinsol had planned for today to be a rest day—at home, in bed, with Yoona safely curled up under a blanket, recovering.
But, of course, Yoona had other plans.
The moment she stepped into Jinsol’s apartment, instead of lying down like a normal person who had just been through hell, Yoona immediately latched onto Jinsol’s arm like a stubborn koala.
"Let’s go on a date," she announced brightly, looking up at Jinsol with hopeful eyes.
Jinsol sighed, already feeling the headache forming. "Yoona, you just got discharged. You need to rest."
Yoona, still clinging onto her, pouted dramatically. "But I’ve been resting for a whole week in that boring hospital! I’m sick of lying down. I want to go out with you."
Jinsol groaned, gently prying Yoona off her arm. "You were stabbed, Yoona. Stabbed. Do you know what people do after getting stabbed? They rest."
Yoona let out an exaggerated groan, throwing her head back against Jinsol’s shoulder. "Then let’s have a resting date!" She grinned up at Jinsol, batting her eyelashes. "We can go somewhere chill. No running, no fighting, no getting stabbed. I promise!"
Jinsol exhaled through her nose, pinching the bridge of it. “You’re impossible.”
Yoona only smiled wider, already sensing her victory.
"Fine," Jinsol finally muttered. "But if you feel even slightly tired, we’re going home. No complaints."
"Deal!" Yoona beamed, instantly perking up.
Jinsol rolled her eyes but couldn’t stop the small smile forming on her lips. "You’re lucky I love you."
"I know," Yoona giggled, hugging Jinsol’s arm even tighter.
Jinsol sighed in defeat. She had a feeling she was going to end up carrying Yoona home later, but as she watched the excitement in Yoona’s eyes, she decided she didn’t mind one bit.
The sound of gentle waves filled the air as the two of them walked along the shoreline, their hands loosely intertwined. The sky was painted in warm hues of orange, pink, and purple, the setting sun casting a golden glow over the ocean. A soft breeze carried the salty scent of the sea, making Yoona close her eyes for a moment and breathe it all in.
“This is nice,” she murmured, leaning her head against Jinsol’s shoulder. “The fresh air, the sound of the waves… I feel like I can finally relax.”
Jinsol glanced down at her, amused. “I told you to rest. You’re the one who insisted on going out.”
Yoona pouted, nudging Jinsol’s side playfully. “This is resting. Just, y’know, with a better view than a hospital ceiling.”
Jinsol shook her head, a soft chuckle escaping her lips. “You’re unbelievable.”
They continued walking, their bare feet sinking into the cool sand. The beach was mostly empty, just a few people scattered in the distance, enjoying the peaceful evening.
Yoona suddenly let go of Jinsol’s hand and turned to face the ocean. “Race me to the water?” she asked, eyes twinkling mischievously.
Jinsol deadpanned. “You just got out of the hospital.”
“So?” Yoona grinned. “I feel great.”
Jinsol gave her a pointed look. “You were stabbed.”
Yoona huffed, crossing her arms. “You’re no fun.”
Jinsol sighed, stepping closer and wrapping an arm around Yoona’s waist. “You don’t need to run for me to have fun. Just being here with you is enough.”
Yoona blinked, then softened. “You’re such a sap,” she teased, though her cheeks had turned a little pink.
Jinsol smirked. “Only for you.”
They stood there for a moment, watching the waves roll in and out. Then, without warning, Yoona kicked some sand at Jinsol’s feet and giggled.
Jinsol raised a brow. “Oh, so that’s how we’re playing?”
Before Yoona could react, Jinsol scooped her up effortlessly, making her yelp. “Jinsol—what are you—”
Jinsol carried her straight toward the water.
“No, no, no—I just got out of the hospital!” Yoona squealed, laughing as she clung onto Jinsol’s neck.
Jinsol smirked. “Then you should’ve thought twice before challenging me.”
Yoona kept laughing as Jinsol slowly lowered her, letting the waves touch her feet but not going in too deep. “You’re such a menace,” Yoona muttered, playfully bumping their foreheads together.
Jinsol smiled. “And you love me anyway.”
Yoona sighed dramatically. “Yeah, yeah. I do.”
The sun dipped lower, the horizon glowing a deep shade of gold. They stayed like that, standing in the water, holding each other close as the waves lapped at their ankles.
It was peaceful. It was perfect.
And for the first time in a long while, Jinsol felt like the world wasn’t so heavy.
The breeze was gentle, carrying the salty scent of the ocean as the waves rolled in and out around their feet. The sun was just above the horizon now, casting a golden glow on Yoona’s face. She stood in front of Jinsol, her arms loosely draped around Jinsol’s neck, fingers playing with the short strands of her hair.
Jinsol’s hands rested on Yoona’s waist, her thumbs tracing slow circles against the fabric of Yoona’s dress. The closeness between them felt intimate, unspoken words filling the silence as they gazed into each other’s eyes.
"You’re staring," Yoona whispered, her lips curling into a teasing smile.
Jinsol smirked. "I have the right to stare at my girlfriend."
Yoona scoffed lightly but didn’t pull away. Instead, she leaned in, her forehead touching Jinsol’s. “You’re too sweet these days,” she murmured. “Where’s my tough and broody Specter?”
Jinsol chuckled, tightening her hold around Yoona. “She’s still here,” she said. “Just… maybe a little weaker when it comes to you.”
Yoona’s heart fluttered at the confession. Her fingers slid down, tracing the outline of Jinsol’s collarbone. “Good,” she whispered, tilting her head slightly. “Because I like this Jinsol too.”
Jinsol’s breath hitched as Yoona’s lips brushed against hers—light, teasing, barely there. But it was enough to send warmth coursing through her. She closed the gap, capturing Yoona’s lips in a slow, deep kiss.
The waves lapped at their feet, the world around them fading into the background. In that moment, there was only them—Yoona’s soft sigh against Jinsol’s lips, Jinsol’s firm grip keeping her close, and the quiet rhythm of their hearts beating in sync.
When they finally pulled apart, Yoona grinned. “This is the best date ever.”
Jinsol chuckled, resting her forehead against Yoona’s. “Then let’s make every date even better.”
Yoona giggled. “That sounds like a challenge.”
Jinsol smirked. “You know I love a challenge.”
And with the sun setting behind them, painting the sky in hues of fire and gold, they held each other a little tighter—knowing that no matter what lay ahead, they would always have this moment.