Crave You Forever
Chapter 82: One slip is all it takes

Chapter 82: One slip is all it takes

Bai Youran sat across from Yeongsoo, his expression twisted into an oddly affectionate smile that only deepened the simmering annoyance in Yeongsoo’s eyes.

"Bai Youran... what the fuck is it you actually want?" Yeongsoo’s tone was sharp, his patience wearing thin.

Youran leaned back leisurely, his gaze lingering on Yeongsoo, unbothered. "You should know what I want, Yeong. I want you." He flashed a self-assured smile. "I’m an omega now. We can be together. I’ll give you many beautiful children..."

A chill swept through the room as Yeongsoo stared at him, unfazed. "Do you think I’m interested in having kids with you? Whether you’re a beta or an omega, I don’t care," he said, his voice low with restrained contempt. "Just don’t come to my establishment anymore. If I see your face here again..."

Youran’s smile faded slightly, his jaw clenching before he forced a chuckle. "Is it because of Yoon Haeun?" he taunted, his tone dripping with mock sympathy. "He’s so pretty, isn’t he? Has that perfect body, that effortless charm. I get why you’re interested. But I can be him too, Yeongsoo. I can be whatever you want. Just choose me. I’m better."

Yeongsoo’s gaze was cold, unyielding, as he stood silently, refusing to be baited.

Bai Youran leaned forward, his voice dropping to a venomous whisper, his desperation plain. "In fact, I have no plan on letting Haeun go. Haha..." A twisted smile curled on his lips, dark and unhinged. "You’ll have to kill me before I let him go. Watch his back, Yeong, because every day won’t be his lucky day."

For a long moment, Yeongsoo didn’t respond, his expression frozen, unreadable. But his eyes glinted with something lethal.

He took a deliberate step forward, lowering his voice. "Touch him, Youran. Even think about harming him, and I’ll make sure your worst fears come true. That’s a promise."

"...."

Crossing his legs and leaning back on the couch, Bai Youran smirked "I’d very much like it if you punish me Yeong, make me scream, make me cream..haha.."

"..."

Yeongsoo stood up, feeling disgusted as stared at Bai Youran.

"Do whatever you like, you can’t hurt Haeun if your goal is to get to me. Do you think I’d give you a second glance if you take care of Haeun? Keep dreaming.."

Bai Youran’s smirk faltered, the flash of anger in his eyes undeniable even as he tried to maintain his facade of confidence.

"Oh, Yeongsoo," he drawled, his tone laced with mock hurt, "you underestimate me. I don’t care if you look at me out of love or hate. As long as I’m on your mind, that’s all I need."

Yeongsoo’s gaze hardened, his patience for Bai Youran’s games completely eroded. "You’re nothing but a desperate coward, clinging to fantasies that will never be real. Haeun isn’t someone you can hurt, and if you think I’d ever let you near him, you’re sorely mistaken."

Youran chuckled, leaning forward as if sharing a secret. "We’ll see about that, won’t we? People as high up as Haeun tend to have... accidents. Just a reminder to keep an eye on him." His voice dropped to a menacing whisper. "Because the day you slip up, Yeongsoo... I’ll be there."

Yeongsoo’s eyes flashed with anger as he took a step closer, forcing Youran to lean back instinctively. "You won’t touch him," he said, his voice like ice. "Not as long as I’m around. And if you try, I’ll make sure the consequences are something you’ll never recover from."

Bai Youran sneered, feigning indifference, but there was an unmistakable flicker of fear in his eyes. "Such loyalty to your precious princess. But loyalty won’t save him if he doesn’t see what’s coming." With a final taunting smile, Youran stood, brushing past Yeongsoo as he headed toward the door. "Remember, Yeong—watch his back. One slip is all it’ll take."

Yeongsoo sat back, fingers gripping the glass of whiskey as he took a long, steady sip, letting the warmth slide down his throat. The burn grounded him, cutting through the lingering disgust that Bai Youran’s words had left in him. His hand tightened around the glass briefly, then he set it down with a quiet clink, his decision made.

He stood, straightening his suit, then moved toward the balcony for a quick breath of air. The late afternoon was cooling, a light breeze brushing over his face. Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out a cigarette, lighting it with practiced ease and taking a slow drag. The smoke filled his lungs, calming him, steadying his focus for what lay ahead.

This launch was important, a culmination of countless hours of planning and dedication. And today was supposed to be about celebrating that hard work—not dealing with threats and unwanted confrontations. He couldn’t let his anger, or Bai Youran’s words, stain this day. Haeun deserved nothing less than his full attention, especially tonight.

When he finally flicked the cigarette away, he felt more centered, his expression once again neutral and composed. Taking one last moment to breathe, he left the balcony and made his way toward the venue.

The launch venue was already buzzing with excitement by the time he arrived. Tall banners and pristine displays showcased the game’s visuals, casting a lively ambiance across the grand hall. Yeongsoo moved through the crowd with ease, a calm confidence settling over him as he greeted familiar faces.

Then, across the room, he spotted Haeun. Standing in a beam of spotlight, Haeun looked effortlessly poised and charismatic as he spoke to the reporters, his smile lighting up the room. Dressed in a dark suit that complemented his striking features, he commanded attention effortlessly.

Yeongsoo’s lips curled into a faint smile, the earlier tension easing. Watching Haeun like this, completely in his element, reminded him of why he’d put up with everything, why he was willing to face any threats that dared to get in their way.

"I’m here.."

He sent a quick message to Haeun, who quickly replied.