Chapter 25:
It was hard to stay focused… Getting ready to go into the office, the commute, getting there early, and preparing things for 's morning meetings before going to check progress on the venue were all overshadowed with the uncertainty of the situation unfolding somewhere half a country away. Jaehee's mind found itself busy even in those rare flashes of idleness, quietly praying.
She'd never been particularly fond of Seven or his antics, but it was hard to deny his genius and capabilities. For years he'd been just a playful, overgrown child to her whose talents were wasted in her eyes. Knowing what she did now, the woman felt a bit guilty. The more she thought about it, the more it troubled her. Afterall, he'd done so much to help Zen's career. There were likely other things he'd done for all of them that she'd never know about yet benefited from. Things he never expected a "thank you" for. He'd been protecting them, and it seemed wanted nothing more than friendship. Yet she'd always scolded him. He'd only wanted to cheer her up by being strange. Even if he had gotten on her nerves, there was now a small part of her that might've found it endearing in the way a younger sibling might vex an older one. Not that she had any comparison to confirm that.
The Seven she knew was like a cockroach. Nothing kept him down and he always managed to make it out of a situation, no matter how bizarre or strange. That strange person apparently wasn't him though. Although, the executive assistant doubted that all of it was a lie. No human could live that long without parts of their true selves coming through. Over the years, she'd become an expert at hiding what she was feeling, but even that wasn't flawless. The red head had once called her a robot for that very trait… Yet she could find herself in tears at one of Zen's performances.
Now, that very part of her he'd teased was keeping the front up while he went on the offensive.
After the morning meetings, she left a few tasks with capable members of staff before making the trip to the party venue. It was impossible not to check for updates in the RFA chat… There was an announcement that they were leaving, then some chat between Yoosung and Zen. But nothing else since. Miyeon had been on for a little now and then, judging by the final preparations for some of the guests being nicely confirmed in her email box, but not much else.
As she stepped out and entered the venue, she felt terribly lonely… The two of them had worked so hard to get the party to this point, and rather than being here to see it all coming together, Miyeon was with Seven on some dangerous mission at a cult compound. All she could do was make sure it was a huge success in spite of everything. Professionally that was what was required of her, but as a friend, she had a vested interest in it. Miracles could happen… Luciel and she could show up tomorrow dressed up and ready to celebrate.
She buried herself in her work, as it began to pour in from all fronts, only occasionally able to steal a glance at her phone. How she could manage juggling that and the C&R workload was a mystery that not even Jaehee herself could answer. The flow was uninterrupted until one of the staffers asked if she was ready to see the 9:15. It was nice having someone bring guests to her…
Moments later, the aid brought a well put together, brightly smiling blonde.
Jumin would've hated her…
She was relatively tall, athletically slender build girl, and dressed professionally but not in a way that would inhibit her from getting her hands dirty while on site. The girl wore a practical but feminine medium cut. If she wore any make up, it was well managed to look as natural but radiant as possible. Her motions were graceful and purposeful. There was an aura of confidence that came from the girl. No doubt she was going places, or she simply hadn't had reality humble her to the life of paperwork that likely awaited her. Jaehee was almost jealous of the hope in her eyes.
God save that little spark… Would it be terrible to tell her to run away from C&R…?
"Good morning, Miyeon's friend , correct?"
"Yes. But since this is for a mutual friend, Eun-Ji, please."
They shook hands. She even shook hands like a proper business man. Jaehee maintained her own formality as the line between personal and professional for her was a very unclear one when around others. The woman provided the blonde a tour of venue, it's expected amenities, and the current itinerary for the following day – as well as their respective roles. Remarkably, the girl was sharp enough to keep up, saying little, but clearly absorbing judging by the questions she asked. Soon, the executive assistant felt confident enough in her to give her tasks for the day as well as time to check in. Eun-Ji set to it immediately.
It was nearly eleven before Jaehee felt her phone buzzing. At first, she wondered if it was Jumin inquiring why it was taking so long. So she answered, with the usual professional urgency. Seeing it was RFA related however… She quickly opened the chat.
There was confirmation that the hacker and girl had arrived at their destination accompanied by a picture… Luciel was beaming up at the camera, with the newest member of the RFA tucked under his arm, with a surprised expression. Really, it looked like any candid shot of a playful young couple. Seeing it was equally relieving and worrying. It was good to see they were safe for now, but a part of her couldn't help but feel that the hacker had shared it with the intention of it being the photo to be used at their funerals. A picture capturing what could potentially be the last time anyone may see them alive and happy, the only proof that they were together… Judging by the words she glanced on the way down to the bottom, it was clear he was uncertain about the situation himself, although he was doing his best to seem optimistic.
707 – My name is Saeyoung Choi.
707- Once everyone sees this…
707- Wish us luck!
She did… Although luck wouldn't likely be enough. The dark part of her wondered about funeral arrangements in the event things went wrong. Did either of them even have families that would handle such a thing? If so, as the acting head of the RFA, was it Jumin's – and vicariously her – responsibility to see to it they were properly interred? No… No. She couldn't think that way. She had to have faith.
On the way back to the office for afternoon meetings, Jaehee asked, and was granted, permission to stop by a church along the way… It was a short and simple prayer; she only hoped it would be heard and God willed it.
Slowly, Miyeon's warmth faded from his skin as Saeyoung turned off almost all connection to the outside world, keeping only a line open to the drone, the kill switch to Mint Eye's security system, and robot cat in the event that things went South. Otherwise, the two of them were invisible to any electric based defense, that just left the feat of making it across the green without getting spotted or standing out. He was surprised he could return to focusing on the situation at hand as well as he was after what had just happened… But now more than ever, he wanted to succeed. This happiness was more than angry little Saeyoung could've imagined from his small, dark corner…
His dark nights had a constellation to follow now. The RFA with the brightest star being the gentle sparkle that was Miyeon… Her warmth guided him back to the future he'd promised his twin after being long adrift in the void of space. With her, they could place where they could live on their own and be free from their mother. That had been such a vague thing then. He had hope then, but no real direction but "out". Now Saeyoung was fighting for a future of sharing tender kisses like that and more. A future where he could hold her on their wedding day with everyone there with Saeran as his best man… To give himself, his true self, to her… To live a normal, happy life with a family that he could share with her and his twin. To watch that joy grow on the smiles around him and the children their love would no doubt bring into the world… The good they could do and happiness they could bring others.
It was even brighter than the future he promised his little brother all those years ago. He wouldn't fail… He was no longer a slimy cockroach doing the occasional good deed to pay off the shame every dirty job made him feel. Little Saeyoung could be the hero he always wanted to be. To do good things, to be good. This was the power he had in his heart, the long dormant desire he wasn't going to ignore anymore. He wasn't going to be a fallen angel like Luciel had become. Saeyoung was going to live up to the meaning of his name.
That didn't mean he wouldn't have to do a few more bad things though…
Tucking his phone back into his pocket, he realized that Miyeon had been holding his hand the whole time with one hand, and the taser he'd given her in the other, all while her eyes-maintained watch on the compound and thicket around them. It wasn't a look he liked on her, but for now, it was necessary. The trick then became a matter of getting in. Sprinting in was an option, but that didn't help what they would do once inside. He knew how to avoid cameras, but that didn't protect them from people who may be in the halls. It was obvious that there was a standard for dress in the form of a shrouded hood. He could leave her here, but he didn't want to risk someone finding her without him there to give protection. Sneaking in alone would leave both of them vulnerable and weaker.
No, they had to go together. He had to get a set of those robes.
From what little he'd observed on the CCTV on previous recon, they seemed to ring a bell to call the members in for a meal. It would be time soon enough. If they could just get robes, they could walk in with the group and hopefully go unnoticed. Then again, there was also the risk someone would recognize them as outsiders.
Miyeon seemed to be a step ahead of him with a plan. Quietly with hand signs, she pointed out that the vegetable garden had a couple sneaking mouthfuls of cherry tomatoes between those they picked. It seemed too perfect. He signed out his intention… He could take out one of them on his own, while she could shock the other into submission. The problem was whether they could do so quietly. Getting her hands dirty wasn't something he wanted to do either, but he didn't even have time to question it as she nodded affirmation and began moving to take her position. This was an opportunity neither could afford to miss, and he knew that.
There was no doubt in his mind watching as she stood up, her usually sweet expression focused on her prey like a jungle cat… It was cute and a little scary at the same time.
He took point, slipping silently from the brush. It felt as though his heart stopped beating as all sound from the former agent ceased. There was some cover from the tomato vines and their supporting stakes. A spade had been left, giving him a perfect weapon. Drawing closer, he held the tool with the handle to be used as a baton, catching only a little of the conversation between the cultists as they were knelt over to get the "good ones" under the leaves.
There was a thud as the handle made contact with the back of the hood. His eyes met with the other cultist for just a flash before he heard a zap and watched their eyes roll back into their head. Their body jerked before going still. Little Miyeon was crouched down low, with the taser giving another spark in preparation that one hadn't been enough. Fortunately, it had. He gave her a reassuring nod, but her eyes still darting for any sign that their position had been given out as he began to drag the couple back one by one. After checking to make sure they wouldn't suffer any long-term harm, Saeyoung used some duct tape and zip ties from the equipment he'd brought to bind them. It was a dirty thing, but it was necessary. Quietly he apologized to their unconscious bodies while he and Miyeon stripped them. Under their robes were some plain clothes. The bit of skin they could see though bore bruises and marks that made it clear to him that they had been tortured.
Hopefully once they were free from Mint Eye, they'd forgive him and find happy lives themselves.
With Miyeon's help, the hacker used the tape to work his equipment onto his frame in a way that wouldn't stand out. It took some padding, but soon the gear was tucked away, and covered with the vestments. After their less than noble induction into the cult, they retrieved the baskets of tomatoes, returning some of their spilt contents before the tolling of the lunch bell. With hoods up and heads down, they walked hand in hand to avoid getting separated in the crowd, following the others into the building.
The throng moved along a main open corridor. There was undeniably a feminine touch to the décor. Everything was luxurious and spoke to being well funded. Fresh flowers were kept in vases all over, filling the chamber with a freshness. It was so deceptively nice… The fragrance was familiar, but he had no time to ponder where from.
He could make out portions of conversations that sounded so normal outside of the walls of this place, but other snippets were so alien. There was talk of the "savior" joining everyone for a meal to celebrate an event that would "surely" lead to more member. He knew that they were talking about the RFA party, although what capacity they meant to do earn members from that gathering he didn't know. They had to get to the information room…
Carefully he guided Miyeon more to the side of the meandering group, before they slipped out of the crowd entirely and into a vestibule that he knew held restrooms for the members as if they were going to wash up some before the meal. Once inside, there would be no cameras. Closing the door behind them, he was surprised to see the girl pull her hood down for a minute to catch a breath. The poor thing was pale but undoubtably hot from having so many layers. Before he could help himself, Saeyoung brushed some of the sweaty strands behind her ear. His concern must've been obvious as the girl gave him a small, nervous, but reassuring nod. Quickly he took out his phone and began the program that would killed the security system.
They had 5 minutes to get to the information room, 20 minutes to get the data and get out…
Wasting no time, he again took her hand and lead her, hoods up along the blue path, walking briskly, but not enough to draw attention. Soon the opulence gave way to a more austere look with plain walls. Then… The stairs down… This was it. Ordering her to stay, he went ahead just a little to check for any signs of life. There was only the silent hum of mainframes and servers whirring away in what would've been the equivalent of any grand company. Near that what was likely a series of rigs set to mine crypto currencies… There was a whole hall of them… At the end of that hall, was what was no doubt the room where he needed to strike. After doing a check of the perimeter, the hacker slinked his way back to Miyeon, who practically ran to him halfway down the steps.
Taking her hand again, he took her through the most obscured path, before they reached the heavy metal door securing the room. After listening through the wood, he was certain there was no one behind it. A tense moment passed until the lights flickered and the door popped open, with the wheeze of a long-sealed crypt. The heat from his angel's body stayed close behind him as he cautiously stepped forward.
There was an array of screens in the dim light, all flickering for a moment as they entered a series of reboots. He pulled off his robe and began the process of accessing the system. Miyeon helped him remove his gear, and within a minute, he was in.
Saeyoung spoke the commands through his head set, keeping his voice low. His priority was to upload the data with the most recent being the most important to older taking secondary… The immediately accessed things were usually the most vital.
"You're really good at this," she whispered.
An uncomfortable smile crossed his lips. He already knew that, but it was good to have outside validation. Although he would've preferred it not be here and under these circumstances. There were terabytes upon terabytes of information that he suspected were largely on members, prospective members, their families… It'd take a while to get it all. Each second that passed was nerve wracking.
The both of them seemed to be looking for any information they could about his brother based on the surroundings too… One thing stood out… The keyboard his brother apparently used was dull with hard use. There was no shiny finish left on it. It was raw. It was clearly a custom-made system judging by the eccentrities of it. The parts were top notch, but not necessarily compatible which was a benefit and hindrance depending upon the skill of the person using it. It was almost as if there were an original portion that had been turned into a technological equivalent of Frankenstein's monster, albeit much more elegant and efficient. To Saeyoung, it gave the impression that his brother had been at it for a long time… The question was, who taught him? Had he taught himself? Even then someone had to encourage him and fund it… Who would even do such a thing?
He wanted to find the person, if only to show his "gratitude" in a way that only someone who knew the pain of what had been done to his brother could. That rage silently soured his gut, despite the warmth of the person he cherished being so close. The room was kept cold to keep the system running at optimum, yet now and then he could catch Miyeon's scent. It made him question about whether or not devoting 100% of the processing to the data transfer would lead the patchworked thing, with all the other processes it was expected to run while security rebooted, to overheat. The girl's attention was on the data stream while he extended a hand to feel for the temperature from the air vent only to hear…
"It's okay. I attached a nice cooler."
Saeyoung's gaze shot towards the door only to confirm his fears… His twin moved seemingly in silence under the whirring of the fans. There was a coldness in his eyes. Miyeon's small frame shifted protectively in front of him and his laptop…
"Saeran…"
That was all he could manage, the rest of him felt heavy.
"Hello," his twin answered before his attention turned to the girl. "Nice to see you again, should I say?"
"Saeran," the red head repeated, coming out from behind the girl to guide her behind him while his twin drew closer.
"I expected this. I knew this would be where you'd first come if you came to Magenta. I saw the traces; I knew it was you."
…Quick work was shoddy work, no matter how much of a professional one was… His twin's eyes darkened.
"I had no idea that you'd hacked into the satellite to see the exteriors though – and the blind spot… I have to admit, you're pretty good. You even saved me the effort of bringing her here, where she belongs."
Saeyoung used his body to push the girl back for an added measure of safety, only to feel her standing firm. For a moment, he feared that he'd made a terrible mistake, until the girl's voice broke out from behind him. It was a tone unlike any he'd heard from her before…
"You're being used. You don't have to keep doing this-"
"You're very naïve if you think that," he answered her. "You should know better than anyone why I do this. We're the same you and me… It's why she hated you and loved him more, you know…"
"We're not…" Miyeon stammered, the strength in her voice crumbling.
"Savor told me why you were chosen… That woman who did those things, she's here, seeking Paradise. Savior says she may enter, but I don't think she should… I make her suffer for what she did to you – to him. Every single, horrible thing I carved into her flesh so she would never forget her sins... I wanted only to save you so you wouldn't end up like me. Do you think he'd do that for you? He'll just abandon you like he did me, and like she did you. You and I will always be weak and disposable to people like them. You deserve happiness, you deserve Paradise – the Magenta."
He didn't know what he was talking about, but it was enough to rattle her… Did she know someone in the group? The girl was quivering behind him, although with fear or rage he couldn't be sure.
"Saeran, I never abandoned you. If we could just talk-"
His twin's eyes lit with fire. "…Why should I talk with a liar who sneaks unannounced into another person's home to steal information? I'm not a naive little boy anymore. I'm not going to stand by idly and let you trick me again."
"If we're so much alike, then I know part of you wants to hear him out… To know why… After all, you've worked so hard all this time to find him, right?" Miyeon offered, her voice quaking.
His brother stared past him to where the girl was standing… He could hear the pain in her voice, but he was powerless to do anything about it. Was Saeran just toying with her? What did he know about her that he didn't?
"That liar doesn't even know who we're talking about, does he?"
"No…" she answered quietly.
Saeyoung felt a little sick at the confirmation that his brother somehow knew her better. It could all just be an act to get the better of both of them…
"But… I don't… It doesn't matter…" her small voice was so frail but picked up a modicum of strength. "And It's not going to change anything, I mean, we're where you want us, right? It can't hurt to hear what he has to say. I mean you have all the time in the world to get the truth out of him however you want."
Gently he felt her fingers grip onto his sides, counting out how much longer the download had… She was playing him and buying them time. Although, it still didn't lessen the ache in his heart knowing that somehow his twin knew the woman he loved more intimately than he did. From what Saeran said, someone Miyeon knew was a member of Mint Eye… They were trapped there… Did she even know? No… She seemed just as surprised.
They had to keep him talking… Maybe, maybe he could reason with him.
"Why should I listen to him?" his twin asked, glaring at him.
"Saeran… When it comes to why I left… There's a misunderstanding."
"Is that how you're going to justify the pain I went through? A misunderstanding?"
Wrong word!
"I'm so sorry… I-"
"You've quite the ego if you think I care," snapped his twin. "Let me tell you what happened, since you don't want her to know the sort of person you REALLY are. You used your own brother to escape that hellhole-"
"I didn't use yo-"
Saeran's voice roared over him.
"And left him to rot so you could travel the world and have happy little parties with your friends."
"That's no-"
"How else would you explain it?!"
His brother's eyes were wide with rage born from hurt, yet the rest of him was deathly still and rigid. Stupid him believed that V and Rika would protect this boy… Saeyoung's eyes burned knowing all too well what their mother likely did to him, and his twisted reflection glared at him with the affirmation that those nightmarish things had indeed come to pass. All he could do was tell the truth of how he felt in that moment, not what he knew now…
"I didn't want to leave, but I had to – to protect you. Please listen to my side-"
"To protect me? That's your excuse?" Saeran scoffed. "I expected that, but that doesn't change that it's a lie. Do you tell Miyeon those sorts of lies too? Tell me, does he promise to protect you to make you happy?"
The girl didn't answer…
"As someone who has been there before – don't trust him… He'll abandon you too one day."
"Maybe you're right… But I do know Saeyoung would sacrifice anything and everything for you, including me."
…God please let her be bluffing. She didn't really think that, did she?
"Then you're more of an idiot than I thought, letting him bring you along if you believe that."
"I came because I want to save you too, because he will never be happy without you Saeran… Believe me when I say Luc-.. No… Saeyoung never wanted any of this to happen. He was given a hard choice and did what he thought was best to protect you. It seems to me that both of you were children who were used by people who only cared for themselves…"
The pink haired man began to laugh, each breath becoming more unhinged. "Wow… He's really got you brainwashed."
It was unsettling… Was that sad, lonely boy still in there somewhere? The former agent found his voice.
"No! She's telling the truth. Please, listen to me."
"If you're going to spill out another lie then there's no need. I know the truth."
His back was cold as the girl had moved.
"Saeran, I've never lied to you. I meant it when I said that I'd protect you, that I'd get us out of there together… I swear!"
"You expect me to believe that just because you're saying it louder?"
"I didn't become an agent and give up my name to hide from you. I didn't have any other choice! I didn't want to leave you-"
"Liar…"
"But the agency wouldn't let me bring you with me-"
"Liar!"
"And those men in black were getting bolder and bolder… I had to leave to keep us both safe – and we both had to change our names to hide us from our father-"
"LIAR! Who would come up with such an insane plan?"
"V… V did..." he stammered, his eyes burning with tears. "He used his connections to get me scouted by the Agency. In exchange for me, they'd erase any trace of us so we could hide from that man. I begged V and the agency to bring you with me, but they wouldn't allow it… I didn't want to leave you, Saeran, I only agreed because V and Rika promised me they'd take care of you… This whole time I thought… I thought they kept their promise."
His brother's head was tilted to the side. He looked… Confused and hollow. Maybe he was getting through to him, yet Saeran's anger soon returned. God… What'd happened to him?
"Lies… more lies…"
"He didn't know that V broke that promise until you came to the apartment," Miyeon answered, the strength in her voice seemingly returned. "…He was so hurt and sick with worry for you."
"…How convincing. Anyone less intelligent might fall for such a crazy story."
"It's not a story; it's the truth," Saeyoung answered firmly taking a step forward. "I didn't just come here for data. I came to save you from this place."
"I have another story. It starts with a boy using his weak little brother as a decoy, so he could leave the hellish home they lived in. He used his own sickly twin as bait so he could make an easy escape, leaving his own little brother to be tortured by their mother. He used to pretend to care for him to soothe his own shame. "I'll take good care of him since I can keep him around and look at him and remember that my life will always be better than Saeran's. Then one day that wasn't enough. Instead he ran away to America, then around the world to have all sorts of adventures, and returned to V to create the RFA, throw little parties, chat online with friends, and have fun without that weak little brother to hold me back. He was always a burden. So I'll just disappear without a trace so he'll never bother me again."
"That's not true! I never felt that way about you! I am you, and you are me… We're the same… Remember? How could you ever think that I felt that way about you. I love you… All this time, I missed you so much. Not a day has gone by where I didn't, " his tears brimmed over. "I never wanted to leave you! I-I wanted to say something, but I was afraid of what mom would do to you if I told you beforehand."
At the time, he felt if she just thought he'd been killed by their father, she'd perhaps ease up on Saeran a little… Afterall, he had to be left alive if she wanted to keep getting money. Right?
"If your intention was to keep me safe from her by keeping me ignorant, then you're in for a surprise. Do you want to know what happened when you didn't come home? How miserable I was alone with that woman...?"
"He needs to know… Tell him what happened to you, Saeran." Miyeon's voice came from behind him, gentle and concerned before he could find the words himself. Her hand rested on his back to steady him…
He didn't want to know, but he couldn't find the words to protest.
"What happened…? Yes… All night, I looked for you… When morning came in that hell, you weren't there. I looked all over the house; I snuck out to look for you outside. I was worried that our father's men got to you. I cried. Even when that woman strangled me, beat me, and threatened me for making so much noise – I cried. For days I worried about you… Naïve little me missed you… I kept wondering why you left. Were you just sick at me? Had I made you angry? Were you hurt? I wept but kept telling myself that you'd come back. You were my brother – you were the strong one. You always made it home… You promised me that you'd protect me, that you'd never leave me alone… When you didn't come home, I believed you were dead. Then for days I cried mourning you… Then mourning myself because I wanted to die from loneliness…"
"Saeran…"
"Then… Then I found out that you were alive. The shock…! I can't even put how I felt into words," there was an ominous tone born of misery.
"I swear… I would've never left if I'd known that V and Rika would break their promise. I would've never left you alone. I-"
"Whatever you would've done doesn't really matter… You are why I suffered for so long. The only reason I survived till now is because of the Savior. She saved me from that woman… If it weren't for her, I'd starved to death in my own filth with rope around my ankles right where you left me."
"Savior…?" the girl behind him asked softly, but Saeyoung's anger was already boiling over at the years of lies.
"What the hell happened!? Did V and Rika really do nothing to help you after I left!?"
"You're digging for information, so you can twist the truth even more. I'm not the foolish little brother you used to know. You don't know how hard it was to lure you out into the open, so I could expose you. I spent years tracking you… You'll never understand the hell I've been through!"
… Even in his darkest moments, he could always had the hope that his little brother was out in the world and happy. His empty existence had some meaning… His sacrifice had a purpose. That wasn't the case for his little brother though. God only knows how much he'd been tortured, starved, and beaten. All the while, that lost sad little boy had been looking for him. At some point, that search had turned him bitter. It was his fault his brother was like this… He should've stayed. If he'd stayed, then none of it would've happened. He'd been such an idiot to trust anyone with someone so precious to him.
Yet, his brother had survived in spite of all of it. His pride had led them here… God was punishing him.
"I didn't know… Saeran… I'm so sorry."
"You're apologizing?!"
There wasn't any excuse, yet he tried his best to rationalize and put an explanation into form.
It was hard to get the words through his throat. "I truly believed that V and Rika had saved you – that they took you in – and were looking after you. I brought you a present one year, V said he would give it to you… But you never got it did you?" he sobbed. "They told me you were doing well – that you were happy… I believed them. I should've never have trusted them to keep a promise that I made! Because I trusted them, I broke my promise to you in the end. I'm so sorry…"
"Don't apologize now! It doesn't change what I went through," Saeran snapped. "Nothing will change… Liar… Traitor!"
"I asked how you were, even when I wasn't supposed to… I was so miserable without you, but I got through it because I believed you were happy and doing well. They told me you were… I asked Rika so often that on my 20th birthday she gave me a floppy with pictures of you and an update on how you were doing. I believed it."
"Stop lying. That never happened."
"I'm not, Rika-"
The monitors lit up… Both twins stood in shock at the sight of a young, happily beaming Saeran, then another picture, and another. Behind him he could hear a series of furious clicks as Miyeon brought every image file open. His eyes were too bleary to see the bright light of the screens, but he could see them reflected in those of his twin. Saeran's face lit up with recognition of having taken the photos on the screen, but quickly that faded into confusion and hurt.
"Saeran…"
"These photos… How…?"
"You remember when these were taken, don't you?"
His twin shook his head and began to back up, every ounce of menace he might've had wavering. "No way… How did you get those?"
Making use of his brother's unsettled state, he quickly looked back to see the storybook Rika had given him out from where Miyeon had removed it from his gear. In it was the letter she'd sent. He lifted it and extended it towards his brother who was recoiling.
"This is the letter she wrote me. Look!"
"It's a lie…" his twin muttered, his thin arms wrapping around his chest while his eyes widened.
Saeyoung took a step closer, again offering the letter.
"Brother, please…"
His mint eyes darted between the letter and the ground. There was no denying he recognized Rika's writing. Afterall, she taught them both.
"I don't believe it. No… No…"
His brother's movements and sudden soft muttering were all signs of torture methods used to illicit obedience. Their mother was an abusive monster, but this spoke to something more sophisticated and intentional… He was doing his best to adhere to programming that had been beaten and likely drugged into him.
"…My God… Saeran… What happened to you?" he asked, softly through tears.
The pale eyes studied him like a pet long since gone feral before he began to shake his head again. "No… No… No… I don't want to listen to you anymore. You stole those photos… You wrote that letter and copied it from Rika's notes in the apartment… You're lying…"
If he pushed a little more, maybe he could put a dent in the conditioning.
"Rika gave this to me herself," he repeated stepping closer. "Let's leave here, we can figure it out toget-"
Saeran suddenly lunged out, knocking the letter from his hands before retreating, looking frantic.
"SHUT UP! It's a lie… It's just a lie! You made it up!"
Too far… Too soon… Yet being so close, he didn't want to give up. His little brother… He was scared and confused. His old instincts roused. Saeyoung drew closer, arms out reached to embrace his twisted reflection.
"Calm down… Please. It's oka-"
"DON'T COME NEAR ME!" Saeran shrieked, slapping his arms away. He began to snarl. "Don't you dare come near me… … I'm going to kill you!"
"Saer-"
"DON'T SAY THAT NAME!"
His brother was running away! Before he could control himself, he was reaching for his brother's coat. He was so close. If he could just reach a little farther-
The metal door slammed shut, missing crushing his fingers by just a hair. Saeyoung slammed his shoulder into the door as it all happened too quick for him to change his direction. He slumped against the cold metal door. A series of tumblers began to roll. Saeran brother was so close! He couldn't leave him here! Desperately he clawed at the door, tried the old code to no avail, before he began to jerk handle.
"NO! NO! Saeran! Come back! Come back… I won't leave you here!"
He felt a hand on his shoulder, yet he pulled away.
"NO! I'm not going to leave him! Not again… Not like 7 years ago! Saeran! Saeran, please! I promise… I'll never let you go– please - open the door! SAERAN!"
He pounded on the door until a sob left his knees buckling too much to muster the strength. Yet he rose his fist again, giving another weak strike to the metal. A frustrated roar broke through his tears as he gave one last assault, before he felt something wrap around him pulling him to his feet and steadying him.
"…The transfer is almost done, then you can hack the door," a soft familiar voice assured him. This time, it wasn't in his head… Miyeon was here with him, speaking to him. "But…We probably can't stay here much longer if he tells their security we're here…"
She was working so hard to hold him up and to hold him together. Unsteadily, he drew her close, giving her a tight squeeze. She didn't fight or resist. Rather, the petite girl stood firm and steady before gently rubbing his back. If he didn't get his shit together, he'd lose her too… That couldn't happen… After a moment, Saeyoung forced himself to stand without leaning on her, clearing his throat.
"Sorry… I'm okay I just…"
Her palm gently caressed his cheek. "No… You're not, but we can handle that after we get out of here, okay?"
"Y-yeah…"
"…Let's take what we have and regroup. We'll come back for Saeran… He's important to whoever their leader is, so I don't think he's in danger. When we take down their leader, then we'll get him…"
"Right… Okay… "
It was a logical enough plan and it was probably the best course of action, but it wasn't what he wanted… He wanted his brother.
The girl guided him to the seat his brother likely used when he'd been searching for him all those years… All those years looking and hurting. He couldn't help but get teared up while hacking back into the security system on the keyboard that'd been no doubt witness to his brother's efforts. Miyeon's soft hands would occasional reach over to dry his cheeks or rub his shoulders until he calmed enough to focus… Soon there was a pop as the tumblers released. The girl was hoisting this heavy equipment bag over her shoulder and running to hold the door open to make sure they didn't get locked in again. Quickly he tucked his laptop under his arm and took her hand with the other as they made their escape. Surprisingly, there was no one waiting for them at the top of the steps… Or in the halls… Everyone was likely still enjoying their meal with the savior, although it'd felt like hours had passed.
Maybe Saeran didn't want him to get caught… Or maybe he was afraid of being punished…?
With care, he lifted the heavy bag from Miyeon, and they began their escape.
Maybe they'd be lucky… Although whether that meant seeing his brother again or not was hard to tell. He had to keep it together.
Vanderwood's morning had been rough as he had been working his ass off to complete the jobs that Luciel had left unfinished. He was running off coffee and nicotine, but at the very least, his target was moving. He had confirmation of his target, rather than aimlessly trying to search buildings for him. The car had been going South quite fast since before sunrise. It was only after confirming with the boss that he took the liberty of borrowing one of the hacker's car to try to catch up with him. Truthfully, he'd been eyeing the car for a while with its brilliant red paint job and stylish rims. The practicality of the red didn't occur to him until later.
There were lots of little towns and remote islands that 707 could be heading for. It wouldn't be hard for him to slip onto a boat either, but wherever he was running, Vanderwood was sure he probably had that girl with him. He hoped that wasn't the case though. She seemed like a nice girl, who he really didn't want to involve in such a nasty business. Not wanting to have innocent blood on his hands, there was also something unsettlingly familiar about her features that he couldn't quite place. He really hoped his former charge was smart enough to not put her into the line of fire…
The closer he got to where the signal stopped, the more anxious he became.
Vanderwood had killed people, but not many, and not easily. There was a reason why he'd taken the red head in… It was easier to protect and do behind the scenes work than "wetwork". Frankly, he didn't have the stomach for it. He preferred being a watchdog who occasionally barked orders, not someone like "Ophelia" who regularly took out people for the agency provided the cost was right. Really this was a job for him, not Vanderwood, except it was his charge that ran off… That and Ophelia wouldn't give Luciel the luxury of coming of his own accord. It would be shoot on site – cold, efficient.
He didn't want that…
Part of him hoped that he could capture the red head alive and talk some sense into him. The guys up top may work him over, break a few bones, and send him to re-education, but he could live after that and keep working. It'd hurt to see him broken, but he'd prefer that to seeing the kid dead… If he had no one to watch over, he'd be back to doing grunt and wetwork – if they didn't outright kill him too for incompetence. Considering how genius Luciel was though, he could maybe make a case for himself. At least, that's what he told himself. The pack of cigarettes he'd smoked over the hours on the road told him that he wasn't convinced.
Eventually the agent found himself in the dead of the mountains. He couldn't find the car, but if his recon was of any use, he knew the only real hiding spot was apparently a compound that the locals referred to as "Magenta". It took bribery to get the location as the people he talked to seemed very wary of the place. He wasn't afraid… No amount of "savior" was going to really protect anyone from a metal slug to the skull.
Was Seven really thinking he could hide himself in a secluded cult in the mountains?
He took his time driving up to scout the place before noticing a seemingly familiar frame stumble out from the ornate doors. The hair was pink and he seemed slimmer, but the face was Luciel's. The idiot had put contacts in and a fake tattoo. That wasn't going to be enough…
Vanderwood began his approach. All the while the hacker seemed unaware, muttering to himself while pacing. Whatever nonsense was coming out of his mouth was likely due to some drugs. He couldn't blame the kid, if he knew he was going to die, going to some crazy cult to get high off his nuts probably wasn't the worst idea.
"Hey!"
Luciel ignored him, still muttering while clawing at the leather jacket slouching around his shoulders. The kid usually had better taste than that. How the hell could someone not stand out wearing that lame punk looking get up? Now acting like he didn't recognize his voice.
"I'm not stupid, 707! I know you can hear me."
The young man finally stopped and wild eyes flashed back at him. Not a trace of recognition. Maybe he was just too drugged to really understand his situation?
"You… You're Luciel's "assistant"."
"Assistant my ass!" snapped Vanderwood, reaching for the young man's arm. There was a short scuffle until he held the wiry frame by the neck with a gun to his temple. For someone so wiry, the kid was still pretty strong – he was just stronger…
"Look I didn't want it to come to this, Seven, but you REALLY fucked up… The guys up top aren't going to let this slide. If you come along with me now, they may just rough you up and reprogram you."
"I'm not Seven!"
The man in his hold began to writhe and struggle, it was hard to keep him under control while forcing him towards the car.
"You're the only idiot who would struggle with a gun in your face… You know that? The only reason I'm not putting a bullet in you now is because I don't want your brain on my new coat."
"LET ME GO! I SAID LET ME GO!"
"I'm not an idiot. You think I could watch over your ass for nearly a decade and not know what you look like?"
"I'm NOT-"
If this kept up, it'd draw even more attention. There were probably other cult loons around that'd make a scene. He threw the young man against the back of his own car before punching him hard in the gut, knocking the wind out of him. The kid had enough gumption to try going for the gun again. This time he gave a quick tap to the back of his head, making him slump forward into his arm.
"Damn it…" the older agent sighed, holding him up while opening the trunk.
Careful not to damage him anymore, Vanderwood rolled his body into the trunk before slamming the hood back down. With a frustrated sigh, he lit up another cigarette. He could call the boss now to let him know he had the kid, but that would mean he'd have to turn him over sooner. That wasn't entirely good news for him either. His brain pondered the full extent of his situation as he plopped back down into the driver's seat. Right now, he could use the kid as a bargaining chip…
Luciel would get to live a little longer until he could be sure the boss wasn't going to take him out too. Without another moment's hesitation, the agent peeled out and began a search for a safehouse while he figured things out…
His head was swimming and aching… It all felt familiar.
Mother would hit him if he was late…
Saeyoung… It's dark… I'm scared…
Cold stone… People in robes… Talk of the parties in Paradise…
Saeyoung… Save me…
"Miyeon, this way," the former agent urged.
The girl was doing her best, but the bindings on her feet were getting to a point that they were doing more harm than good. He seemed to have realized that and had made the trek back to pick up the car to bring it closer. She waited anxiously in the abandoned greenhouse keeping watch… There was no sign of his brother. When he met back up with her, he gazed at her expectantly, but there was no good news to give him.
"I think we missed him…"
Saeyoung's eyes darkened. "I want to believe we'll catch him soon…" Before she could clarify her concerns, he continued. "He didn't tell anyone about us being here… I don't know if he was just too shocked or if he's changed his feelings about m-."
He was interrupted by the smell of petrol. They were downwind of it. With reluctance, the girl followed him until they were near what was likely the area meant for parking and deliveries to the compound. A long black set of streaks told of someone having peeled out of there at quite a speed. Maybe Saeran had sped away?
The red head was already studying them to get an idea of the direction.
"Do you think it's Saeran? He would've had to have had a car to come to the apartment, right?"
"Yeah, but… There's not enough evidence for me to just follow it…"
Seeing how she was walking on the edges of her feet, the hacker frowned before putting his arm around her to help take some of the weight off. They were soon within sight of his car, he opened the door for her.
"For now… Let's get somewhere safe so we can fix your bandages. Get in the car, okay?"
It was an order, but one born from concern. Miyeon hobbled and had a foot in the door before they both heard a voice…
"Luciel…"
The girl found herself holding onto the sleek metal door, as the hacker had shifted his weight to act as a barrier. She could feel him body tense up… From the rear-view mirror, her eyes glimpsed an unexpected sight… Someone she'd only seen in pictures and who she knew only from the unusual color of his hair.
V…?
"V…"
"Luciel… Thank God, it's you…"
Why would he be happy to see him…?
"Why are you here?" Saeyoung asked warily.
"Oh… That…"
Miyeon had questions, but the red head was a mile ahead of her.
"Don't give me cryptic answers either. Why are you here?"
No reply.
There was a scoff… "Of course, you knew about this place. Right? I'm not even surprised. You're with them, aren't you?"
V wasn't denying it, but there was clearly a lot he wanted to say that he just couldn't put into words. Something told her that whatever he said, Saeyoung wasn't going to hear him out…
"I know you won't believe anything I say to you; so whatever I tell you about why I'm here, you won't believe… and that's my fault too…"
A crazy thought occurred to Miyeon in that moment… If everyone was dining with the savior, that meant it couldn't be V. That left one other option that seemed so impossible that she couldn't even entertain it.
"V… Di-"
"Miyeon, get in the car… He could be dangerous."
If he was going to hurt them or call for backup he would've done it already, yet the tone of Saeyoung's voice made her obey… Despite his feelings on the matter, her intuition told her that the tall man was no threat.
"You don't have to fear me… I would never hurt you," the older man assured, raising his hands to show no weapon.
The hacker shut the car door with force, while he continued to level a glare at the man he once considered his own father. He slowly crossed the front of the car. Though muffled, she could hear him, albeit muffled…
"You want me to believe that after what you let happen to Saeran? Don't come near me."
V's lips moved, but his voice was too soft to carry through the glass.
"You knew about what was in that drawer didn't you. How long have you been lying to me? Who the hell are you really!?" Saeyoung growled. "Rika was the only person who could get into the apartment…! Yet you KNEW! And don't lie to me with that innocent face."
She could make out, "I'm sorry…" But Luciel's shoulder blocked V's face from her line of sight after that…
"You're not going to say anything about Saeran? You're not going to tell me what the hell you did to him!?" He was quaking with rage again. "He wouldn't even listen to me. He thinks I'm lying… Why the hell does he think I'm a liar!? What did you do to my little brother?!"
A pause for a response she couldn't hear from a man who she only knew where he was by the angle of the hacker's enraged posture.
"You're not RFA's leader… This whole time… You've been Mint Eye's- is that right? You faked Rika attacking you and your eyes getting damaged for sympathy… Playing us so we wouldn't notice, is that what happened? … Say something! Say something with that noble mouth of yours! That lying mouth that promised me Saeran would be safe!"
Miyeon jerked as Saeyoung roared… He'd lost all sense of reason and composure. All those years… It was understandable, but he wasn't really giving V an opportunity to explain himself. With him still blocking her in the car, she had no way to try to mediate.
"Dammit V, answer me!"
She could hear the other man's voice but couldn't make out the words…
"Calm down? In THIS situation?"
V's soft, deep voice returned. It was calming, but there was no doubt of the remorse in it…
"Don't give me that excuse," spat the red head shaking his head violently. "I hate you… It's your fault… It's your fault my little brother is like that… You're why I became an agent, why I suffered – hated myself… I'll NEVER forgive you! That- THAT is the truth! I would've never left him alone if it hadn't been for you!"
He was practically hysterical at this point… Miyeon covered her ears… The yelling… She'd had enough, she wanted it to stop…
V's voice was there again, this time urgent.
Then Saeyoung's…
"…n't… ay…ame."
The older man said something again. This time it seemed to break the young agent's anger.
"…W-what…?"
The driver side car door flung open.
"…I can't be sure… But if it wasn't you… It must've been him."
"I won't forgive you if you're lying."
"I swear, but… I couldn't see properly. I don't know who took them, but… The car was red. It really stood out. I think it had silver lining."
"Silver lining…" The hacker's fist tightened. "No way… Shit! Vanderwood."
"Vanderwood…?" V repeated softly.
"If you're lying to me about seeing Saeran…"
"I swear, it's the truth. Saeyoung, I'd like to help – but… You probably don't trust me."
"You're damn right I don't trust you. There's no way in hell I'm going to let you interfere with my or my brother's lives ever again."
"Saeyoung…"
He began to sit down only to stop part way through. "By the way,V…"
"Yes…?"
"…If Rika knew the real you, I can see why she messed up your eyes like that. If they even really are damaged… Either way - I hope you really do go blind."
With that, he slammed the door shut and before Miyeon could even register it, the car jerked back, then forward. For several minutes, she was in sheer terror as he drove like a bat out of hell through the woods with an intense look on his face. They skid onto the paved road and he began to go even faster. Did he even know where they were going the right way? She felt like she was suffocating! He wasn't slowing down! He could really kill them both! The vitriol in his spirit and unwavering pursuit was going to get them both killed if he didn't calm down.
"…If Vanderwood has him – there's no telling what he'll do to him."
The girl couldn't hold it in anymore. She had to have air! "Please stop…"
"If we just hurry we can…"
"STOP!"
Her body jerked forward as Saeyoung slammed on the breaks, hastily pivoting the vehicle to where they were on the shoulder… Hastily the girl unfastened her seat belt and quickly stumbled out of the car.
"M…Miyeon…?"
It was hard to keep her shivering body still as her knees began to buckle. She swayed back to the car, knocking the little bit of air she had in her lungs out. The tightness in her throat and chest leaving her feeling light headed… The girl slid down to the concrete in a heap fighting for breath while trying to steady her stomach. It was like she was drowning and going to throw up at the same time. Other than that, Miyeon wasn't even aware of her own body aside from the pain in her feet.
The seed of Saeran's words and their meaning came back to her full force… She didn't want her mother back in her life! Saeyoung's volatile emotions, how very hot and bitter he could be. Had she made a mistake? Would he ever hate her that much? Were they going to die? She didn't want to save that woman, if that woman was indeed who the gaunt twin mentioned… She wanted her to hurt, but at the same time, that was wrong and…
Why was this happening now? Why not before? Why now!? What if there were people after them? She had to get herself together! Her mind raced…
She was going to suffocate! The girl began to tug at the vestments, as everything felt tight.
It felt like forever, but in truth, it'd only been seconds before Saeyoung got out to check on her. Her body curled up quite naturally to hide the sight from him as running away wasn't an option… Despite her feeble kicks pushing her closer against the unyielding metal of the car and concrete scraping her hands. It only made her shake worse and breathing harder as she thought about how pathetic it must've looked. Her limbs were shaking too much to fully cover her head, but her knees curled up, quivering against her chest.
It was her fault they weren't going to find his brother… Saeran was dead. He was going to hate her. He was going to leave her alone… She'd never see him again. It was her fault!
Even with her pleas and attempt to hide her face, he knelt beside her quietly. An embarrassed little sob escaped her making it only harder to get it together.
"Hey…"
Her mind was conjuring all the horrible things that were going to happen. There was a shuffle of fabric as he pulled the cultist robes off and threw the rags over his shoulder.
A yelp escaped her as suddenly her body lurched forward, away from the safety of the hard surface. Her knees rolled forward until she was practically in his lap. His knee supported her from behind while the rest of him was draped around her protectively. Saeyoung's body surrounded her with warmth and practically everything the girl could feel was him. Her reflex was to push him away, only to feel him grip her tighter.
"Just breathe."
How could she? He was blocking all the air and-
"I'm so-*hic*-sorry. I'm sorry!" she began to repeat softly.
"In… 2… 3…" his chest rose against her. "Out… 2… 3…"
Without meaning to, Miyeon began to follow his slowly uttered mantra if only because his chest was right by her cheek. The calm rhythm of it was hard to fall into, although she couldn't help but hiccup as her body wasn't ready to relax just yet. Saeyoung's large hand smoothed her hair as he repeated it a few more times until the girl could feel her lungs expanding fractions at a time.
After a moment, the dizziness waned into a mild headache as her rapid shallow breaths eased to deep, but still fast. With care, the former agent helped her to her feet before sitting her back in the passenger seat with her feet on the ground, so she could continue to get fresh air. It didn't help Miyeon couldn't unfold herself fully just yet… He was clearly glancing around to make sure they weren't being followed.
"Just relax here a little… I'm going to check the car, okay?"
She nodded as he disappeared behind the vehicle. There as a little bit of noise as he ordered catbot to do something related to tracking and then opened the trunk, rummaged around, then it closed. Eventually the girl was able to sit up fully, only to not see any sign of her companion. A shred of panic began to set back in until she caught a glimpse of his red hair at the back. Miyeon carefully removed the cultist vestments before attempting to stand, setting the robes in the back just in case they needed them for later. Using the car to balance herself, she unsteadily made her way to see what was going on. Saeyoung was slowly passing a device over the interior of the trunk, before quickly checking the other parts of the car. His intense gaze softened some as he glanced up to see her, but soon focused again on the task at hand.
"Feeling better?"
"…Yeah… Do you need any help?"
A troubled smile crossed his lips. "Not yet. For now, just take it easy."
He didn't mean it in a mean way, but it was enough to make her flinch with the realization that she wasn't of any use to him at all… It must've been obvious because of the worried knit to his brow.
"If Vanderwood really was there, it means he had a way of tracking this vehicle. I wouldn't have thought about that if you hadn't asked me to stop… I wasn't thinking at all; I could've really gotten us hurt."
"…You don't have to pretend..."
"No, Miyeon. I mean it…" he sighed before kneeling to run the scanner along the housing of the tire. "For the record, I'd never sacrifice you… If it hadn't been for you, I don't know if Saeran would've shared as much. I wouldn't have known how much he really suffered."
"I don't know if that helped you at all… That's why you were so upset to begin with. And then V… How come he was even there?"
He sighed softly, finishing up a pass along the underside of the car before standing. "It's because I was careless… He still has access to the chatroom… And Jumin. Of course, he'd be waiting for us to try to cover his trail." Saeyoung's voice was full of disgust. "… I'll fix about that later once I get us to a safehouse. I can't keep making stupid little mistakes."
Fairly soon he'd checked all of the car, but he hadn't found anything judging by the frown he wore.
To her surprise, he then tossed her his keys and guided her towards the driver side door.
"L-Saeyoung…? What's-?"
"I need you to drive my car just a little bit. Here…"
She sat in the driver seat, which he pulled up a little to help her legs reach the breaks and pedals. He was clear in basic controls, but the main thing was… "For now, I just want you to let it coast just a little bit while I walk around it."
"I could hit you."
"It's fine, just keep your foot on the break and keep it really slow, okay?"
Miyeon didn't protest, but he had to encourage her to let off the break a little more as the vehicle slowly began to roll forward down the slope of the mountain while he trotted behind and alongside. It took a minute, but soon she heard -
"Okay! Stop!"
The car eased to a standstill. To her surprise, she was greeted with the sight of his camera before he opened the driver side.
"…Really?" she murmured.
He chuckled a little. "I can't help it… You were so cute, but I have a good reason – I swear."
Saeyoung reached over her, putting the car into break and taking the keys back out. He took off his hoodie and red shirt, leaving only the white undershirt before his upper half disappeared under the passenger side of the car. Miyeon followed him but could only watch and wait. His long legs bent a little as he gave himself another little push farther under the car. It was making her nervous… She glanced around, then back down, seeing the occasional glimmer from the flashlight on his phone. It was several minutes before she heard a muffled –
"Gotcha…"
There was no amount of craning her neck that was going to let her see what was going on, but soon his hand emerged, blackened, but holding two small round devices that appeared to have a magnet on them. He scooted back out from under the car, his shirt coming up to reveal a little of his belly. There was toned definition there, with fine lines marking the muscles beneath.
"GPS…?" she asked softly.
"Yep. This kind doesn't signal until the vehicle moves."
He gave a final push before sitting with his back against the car to study the devices in better light. Afterwards, the former agent got up with her help before throwing the devices far into the woods. "Think you could get behind the wheel one more time for me?"
She nodded and after a repeat, he seemed satisfied that the vehicle was bug free. This time when she was able to break the car by herself. Miyeon was stepping out to give him the keys when she noticed his purposeful stride towards her. His arms wrapped around her waist, bringing her up off the ground just a little as he squeezed her tight. At first, she took it as a sign they were in danger until he eased and offered her a little smile…
"Thank you."
Her hands were touching his bare skin. The girl felt even hotter realizing just how developed his arms really were. She had to look away, which seemed to amuse him. He got her attention back though by gently cupping her face. It seemed as though he wanted more, but at the moment, Miyeon didn't feel much like a kiss… He seemed to pick up on that and eased up some, but not before rubbing her nose with his thumb. Maybe he was brushing hair from her eyes?
Weird.
She was a little confused but didn't protest much as he let her aside, although he seemed to be more cheerful than for the situation they were in called for. It wasn't long after she sat back down in the passenger side that he joined her, his hands rumpling the vestments before they were thrown in the back. He seemed to be grinning suspiciously wide after a glance at her.
"When we get somewhere safe, I'll teach you how to drive. It's easier to do on an automatic, but if you can learn how to drive this, then you'll be set for anything."
The engine soon came to life again, and they began the descent from the mountains. It seemed like they were headed South as they were taking a different road than the way they'd come up. He set the GPS, although she wasn't sure where they were going now.
"Are you sure you can trust me with that? I mean… I know that I may have to at some point, but I don't want to wreck your car."
"I've got a few cars, and there's insurance on them. Besides, if end up getting married one day, you may need to use them. "
Miyeon felt herself blushing realizing how deliberate his wording was. "…You're serious."
"I am…" he answered warmly. "The more time I spend with you, the more certain I am."
A quiet settled over the car as he focused on the road, although there wasn't any doubt he was wondering where his brother was. Quietly she moved her hand closer to the gear shift before his fingers laced with hers. It came so naturally…
His gold eyes shifted from the road to her before slipping back.
"…There should be another town coming up soon. We'll stop there for gas, food, and some supplies. I also need to take care of a few things while we're there."
"Okay."
"Right now, though… Is it okay if I ask you something? And I need you to answer as honestly as you can… Who was Saeran talking about?"
Her heart lurched. "…I don't know…"
Considering how he glanced at her, she knew he wasn't satisfied with that answer.
"I mean - I have a thought, but I don't know for sure."
There was no denying the concern in his eyes before Saeyoung drew a deep breath and gave her hand a reassuring squeeze.
"From what Saeran said, how you seemed to empathize with him, and just the short time I've been with you… It seems like some pretty sad things have probably happened to you too. Haven't they?"
The girl leaned closer to the window, slipping her hand free so she could hold herself.
"Did that person hurt you?" his voice was calm, but his concern was mixed with a tempered anger.
She bit her lip. "Hurt" was a very vague and broad term… It applied to her complicated relationship with the woman that had given birth to her, although not in quite the same way. Considering how terrible his mother had been, Miyeon didn't even feel that it compared. Really, her life was charmed by comparison. It made her feel pretty weak considering how easily she'd been worn down by the reminder of what the woman thought of her.
What was even worse was wondering what would happen when they put an end to Mint Eye, if such a thing was even achievable. Would that woman show up on the door step and expect her to be a dutiful daughter after having left her alone for years? It was "expected" of her. She was the only family that was left, afterall. She'd have "a right "… The girl felt otherwise.
If she and Saeyoung were truly a couple by then, there was a good chance that the woman would never approve. Even if he was handsome and a genius, knowing her daughter had contact with Jumin Han would've led to her being raked over the coals for not having her "priorities straight". Plus, something told her she would've found him too much like her father and his red hair ridiculous. She didn't care what her mother thought, but Miyeon loathed the possibility of constant nagging, belittling, and snide comments…
That very same negativity left scars in how she thought about herself and her place in it…
It'd been so peaceful with just her father. He worked hard to provide for the two of them, but he was never harsh or demanding. In return, she did her best to take care of the home and learned to cook. She gave up so many science classes and clubs to take courses to do just that, since her mother had never cared to. If not from school, then Eun-Ji's family... His desire to see her married and with children was born of a sincere concern for her happiness, and to perhaps ensure he himself had a legacy. He'd wanted to be a grandfather... Not out of greed or the sake of having a trophy to show off. The only people who seemed incapable of seeing anything of worth in her was her mother and subsequently herself.
What if they had children and she turned into a monster like that? Could either she or Saeyoung even hope to be good parents…?
No… She'd never be that callous and selfish.
Miyeon was willing to risk having to deal with her mother if it meant Saeyoung could have his family back and Saeran could recover from whatever the cult had done to him. It was a small price to pay. It was a toll her father or Jun-Seo would've paid, without hesitation.
"…As awful as that person was, I wouldn't be the person I am without the lessons I learned from them. No matter how painful they were. I learned a lot about people from them. It's because of her I can understand some of how your brother must've felt."
The hacker's expression was contemplative before a pained smile crossed his lips. "I almost envy how strong you are."
"…Don't tease me."
"I'm not…"
"You've only known me a few weeks."
"They train agents to be able to read people, you know. At their base, humans are simple creatures with common behaviors having genetic and common experiences that shape them. Really, people are just self-teaching AIs that model behaviors from those they encounter and may later adapt based upon additional input. I don't need to know everything about you to see a simulation who selflessly gives so much of herself for other's happiness because she genuinely cares, rather the person who thinks so little of herself that she'd give everything she is to see others happy…"
Miyeon eased over from where she'd curled up near the window, back to where their shoulders touched.
"I'm not a program."
"No. You're not… You're my 606."
"I'm not a reset code either, Saeyoung."
His eyes widened realizing that she understood the meaning.
"…I looked it up. If there's anything about 707 that you keep, don't forget what it is you really want so you don't lose your way again. Remember everything, so you know you're not alone… And use those sad things to be the person you want to become."
"See… You're so cool when you do that. Right now, I really want to kiss you, but I can't take my eyes of the road."
The both glanced to the other only to catch the other smiling a little. This did suit them… They'd made a vow after all… No matter how desperate the situation; they could look at the other, smile, and get through it. She'd already lost one brother. Between the both of them, there was no way in hell she was going to lose another.
Once they stopped for gas, Miyeon confirmed whether it was okay to message out again. He confirmed after having catbot switch tasks to act as a VPN. There was a series of messages from V, but there was no time to read them. For now, all the girl 's access permitted was a simple text.
"Saeyoung and I are safe."