Hi, lovelies, welcome back. I hope you enjoy this long chapter.🤭🥰 sorry for any typo. My fingers hurt in a good way✌️😭 and thank you for your kind support. 🫶🫶🫶🫶Please help me share my story🙏🥺❤️ you can copy the link and share it with your friends if you can, I would appreciate it 🥰🥰🥰

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Tensions within the Fire and Light Mafia camp ran deeper than the blood spilled in the ambush that targeted Sehun, Hawk, and their fellow family members. The loss of their comrades had cast a heavy shadow over the estate, and conversations had become furtive and heavy-hearted.

Hector's miraculous evasion of a deadly bullet left everyone in awe, a testament to the inexplicable twists of fate amid the chaos of flying lead.

Hawk's ongoing recovery was a beacon of hope amidst the darkened skies. Hector's swift action had ensured that Minseok, the underboss, received a timely distress call. Paramedics, discreetly dispatched by Chanyeol's cousin—Kim Jongdae, swooped in just before they returned home, conveying Hawk away for crucial, covert treatment. This was vital because Chanyeol preferred his criminal enterprises to remain shrouded in secrecy, far from the prying eyes of the public.

The fallen soldiers were laid to rest by their Mafia family in a solemn, unobtrusive ceremony. The families had been informed of the tragic loss, and the silence that settled over the estate was pregnant with sorrow.

After an unsettling encounter with the detective who had paid Baekhyun a visit in his own home that Friday at about 5:00 p.m., still on the lookout for his missing mother. The Mafia, having caught wind of their conversation on the first day Baekhyun resumed school, realized that more inquiries might be headed Baekhyun's way, fueling their curiosity and suspicions.

To counter this, the Don had decreed a daily routine for Baekhyun: returning to his home from school each day, only to be whisked away by night to the safety of the mansion. That day had been detective-free, and when Baekhyun returned to the mansion that evening, he carried with him a new solo project. Following his questioning by the detectives a few days ago, his professor had assigned him this project. Given his living situation in the mansion owned by a drug lord, it made sense for him to bring it home rather than join a group project.

Upon entering his room, Baekhyun wasted no time shedding his attire, hastening toward the embrace of a soothing bath. As he stepped into the bathroom, he couldn't resist taking a moment to inspect himself in the mirror, directing his focus to the dressing that concealed his back's wound—a memento from the solemn Fire and Light Ometà oath ceremony. He watched the bruise gradually fade, a reassuring sign of the healing process, even though the pain had lessened this time around. A soft sigh of relief escaped his lips as he carefully shielded the injury in preparation for his bath.

Emerging from the bathroom, feeling as fresh as the morning dew, he swung open the doors of his miniature closet. To his surprise, he was greeted by a lineup of shopping bags waiting patiently within. Baekhyun raised an intrigued eyebrow, pondering whether this fashionable jackpot was destined for him or if it was some strange wardrobe fairy's doing.

Curiosity itching at his fingertips, he couldn't resist the urge to dig into the bags. Like a kid unwrapping birthday presents, he unveiled the treasure trove of new designer clothes. Each bag revealed a fresh fashion adventure, from stylish underwear to cool shorts, suave shirts, hip jackets, snug hoodies, trendy pants, and new pairs of sneakers that were straight out of a fashion magazine. Not to mention the alluring fragrances and top-notch skincare products that adorned the haul.

Baekhyun was left in awe; his closet was suddenly a luxury boutique. However, beneath the excitement, there lurked a mix of emotions. Receiving gifts from Chanyeol was like dancing with the devil – thrilling, yet chilling. The last thing he wanted was to be indebted to a man as mysterious as Park Chanyeol, for the consequences could be as unpredictable as the man himself.

Baekhyun chose not to use the new clothes and, instead, reached for his old garments—the clothes they got him that he'd been wearing ever since he came into the mansion after his abduction before he embarked on a mission to find one of the maids. With a beguiling smile and charming manners, he requested her help in tending to the wound on his back, a spot he couldn't quite reach. The willing maid assisted him with both skill and admiration, offering compliments on his looks, and leaving Baekhyun beaming with appreciation throughout the process.

After concluding his interaction with the maid who had aided in dressing his wound, Baekhyun made a brief stop in the kitchen to fetch a snack and a refreshing drink. He glanced around for his friend Kyungsoo, but the search proved fruitless. With a casual shrug of his shoulders, he released a sigh before heading back to the sanctuary of his room. There, he was faced with the pressing task of catching up on the assignments for their academy session, as he had fallen significantly behind schedule.

~
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~

Baekhyun's Saturday began with soft, golden sunlight streaming through his window, illuminating the room in a warm, cozy glow. It was a beautiful fall morning, and the air was crisp with a hint of the earthy scent of fallen leaves. He stretched lazily in his bed, savoring the comfort of his warm blankets.

As he sat up, Baekhyun couldn't help but feel a tinge of disappointment. It was the weekend, and he had secretly hoped to find the Don sitting in his room, like that surprising Monday at the beginning of the week. But today, his room was empty, the space by the window unoccupied.

Shrugging off his mild disappointment, Baekhyun embarked on his usual weekend routine. First, he tidied his room, making his bed and ensuring everything was in its proper place. The sunlight filtered through the curtains, creating patterns of warmth and shadow on the floor.

Next, he headed to the bathroom for a refreshing shower, the warm water soothing his muscles and relaxing his mind. Baekhyun took his time, enjoying the feeling of the droplets on his skin.

Once he was dressed in fresh clothes, he gathered the laundry he had accumulated during the week. Carrying the basket down to the laundry room, he greeted Kyungsoo, the resident chef, who was already busy preparing breakfast.

Baekhyun offered to help, and together, they prepared a delicious morning meal, filling the kitchen with the tantalizing aroma of food. The savory scent wafted through the house, making it impossible for anyone to resist.

With breakfast ready, Baekhyun returned to his room, tray in hand. He settled in by the window, the morning sun casting a warm glow on his breakfast spread. As he ate, from his window, he carefully avoided any interaction with Park Chanyeol, the enigmatic Mafia Don. As he hasn't seen the man today.

After breakfast, he devoted his time to his ongoing project, immersed in the world of his work. The hours passed, and to his relief, he didn't encounter Chanyeol or hear his voice. The peaceful ambiance of the fall morning continued to envelop him, allowing him to focus on his tasks and momentarily forget about the complexities of the Mafia world that lurked just beyond his door.

At about 2 p.m., Sehun's tentative knock on Baekhyun's door marked a rare instance of connection amidst the prevailing tension. "Are you occupied?" he inquired with caution.

Baekhyun's response was accompanied by a faint but relieved smile. "No, I've wrapped up my assignment for the day." Seeing Sehun on the path to recovery was a glimmer of light in the darkness. Since the ambush, an oppressive air of apprehension had taken root within the Fire and Light Mafia Estate. Chanyeol, once a looming presence, had grown reticent, his silence a heavy cloak that shrouded the entire family. He bore the weight of financial restitution for the fallen, and the additional burdens of his leadership role. Baekhyun kept his distance all this while, his heart racing at the mere sound of Chanyeol's voice, seeking cover to evade the enigmatic Mafia leader.

Sehun seemed to consider Baekhyun's response before nodding gently. "Fair enough. I've got something to show you. Follow me." Sehun led Baekhyun out of the mansion to another building within the estate. As they entered the building, Baekhyun realized it was a shooting range. He noticed some newly initiated members and their Capos leaving the shooting range, exchanging greetings as they passed. It thrilled Baekhyun to know that this was Don's private shooting range. At this point, it seemed there was nothing that Chanyeol didn't possess—that jerk. He rolled his eyes at the thought of it alone.

Upon entering, they waited for the range master, Woo Jinseok, responsible for supervising and ensuring strict compliance with weapon safety rules and government regulations.

"Capo Sehun! how are you feeling today?" Jinseok greeted Sehun with an infectious enthusiasm, though his eyes couldn't help but linger on Baekhyun. The real shocker came when Sehun introduced Baekhyun, explicitly stating that he belonged under Chanyeol's wing. Baekhyun's eyes widened in disbelief. Why Chanyeol and not Sehun or even Minseok? The sense of being tethered to Chanyeol left him torn between relief and despondency. Suddenly, the mysterious presence of the don in his room the other day began to make sense.

"Ah, the boss certainly has a knack for spotting the finest," Baekhyun overheard Jinseok remark to Sehun, and they burst into a hearty, almost disconcerting laughter. Baekhyun felt a strange discomfort settle in. "But he's strictly off-limits," Sehun firmly declared, and Baekhyun could almost see the disappointment flicker across Jinseok's face. It was becoming increasingly evident that many in this place had a penchant for younger individuals, and the idea of being under Chanyeol's protection suddenly seemed like a welcome safeguard against unwanted advances.

Jinseok handed them eye protection glasses and earplugs for their safety before guiding them inside the shooting range. They joined other members who were engrossed in their training. Sehun made sure Baekhyun was fully equipped with personal protective gear before taking him to the designated firing point, where targets were set at various distances for the marksmen and markswomen.

This indoor range restricted the use of high-powered calibers, rifles, or fully automatic weapons. "Don't reveal that I taught you how to use a firearm. Not even to sotto or the don." Sehun begged Baekhyun. "Congratulations on your initiation, by the way. And your first day at school after forever. I heard you had a challenging time during the initiation."

"Weren't you there?" Baekhyun asked because he was taken by surprise. He thought Sehun was there.

"No, I wasn't." came Sehun's response.

"Well, he wanted it, so I had no choice. Besides, I wouldn't have gained my freedom to go back to school if I didn't comply with his demands." Baekhyun said referring to Chanyeol.

"Hmm, he can be like that sometimes," Sehun said with a shrugged shoulder. "He might be harsh with you one day and then lavish you with gifts the next. He's a good man, though." what Sehun said was true as Baekhyun remembered the shopping bags still stacked inside his closet that he's yet to use. And suddenly his shoulders fell, "I said hurtful things to him some days before my induction," Baekhyun said with regret.

"I heard about it. Hawk mentioned it. You've also been exempted from training, quite interesting." Sehun chuckled with a sinister tone. "You must be quite the enigmatic figure. He likes you, no doubt."

"No, he despises me," Baekhyun said with a scoff.

"On the contrary, he doesn't." Sehun from behind, assisted Baekhyun with the best posture possible to stand before taking a shot. "He's just fuck-lust." Sehun set up a small table in front of Baekhyun, placing a semi-automatic handgun in front of him. Baekhyun watched nervously, his curiosity mingled with a hint of apprehension. "Here, take, aim, and fire."

"W-what?" Baekhyun, with trembling hands, accepted the rifle. It felt surprisingly heavy, and he had never held a real gun before, making it a novel experience. "I thought you were joking. Wait, what am I supposed to do with a real gun?" He asked, confusion evident in his voice. "I don't know how to use it."

Sehun chuckled upon hearing that. "This isn't a real gun, Baekhyun. Who uses real guns in a shooting range like this? You're learning to protect yourself, given the dangerous world we live in today and what happened to us. Imagine if everyone had access to real guns; do you think you'd still be alive today?" Sehun began, his tone was serious but calm. "First, you need to understand the basics." then he pulled out another pistol, a real one this time around, "This is a real pistol, and it's a tool for self-protection. Never use it to harm others unless it's a last resort."

Baekhyun nodded, absorbing Sehun's words. "I get that, but what's each part of the gun for?"

Sehun pointed to different components as he explained. "This is the barrel, where the bullet comes out. This is the trigger; it's what you press to fire. The grip, here, is where you hold it. And this, Baekhyun, is the safety. It's crucial to keep it engaged until you're ready to fire. Always check it before handling the gun."

Baekhyun listened attentively, taking in the information. "How many bullets does a gun carry when it's fully loaded?"

Sehun reached for a magazine, and showed it to Baekhyun. "This is a magazine. It can vary, but in this case, it holds 15 rounds. After you fire, you need to reload, which takes some time. So, you should never waste your shots. Aim carefully, and only use your weapon when there's no other choice."

Baekhyun nodded a serious expression on his face. "I understand, Capo Sehun. I hope I never have to use one of these."

Sehun patted Baekhyun's shoulder, a hint of sadness in his eyes. "I hope so too, Baekhyun. The best defense is knowledge and awareness. Remember, using violence should always be a last resort. It's not something to take lightly."

The lesson continued as Sehun carefully taught Baekhyun the importance of firearm safety, impressing upon him the weight of using such a weapon responsibly and as a means of self-protection, not violence.

As they concluded their session, Baekhyun followed Sehun from behind, making sure not to bump into him or injure him even more. His mind was preoccupied with various thoughts, including what Sehun had mentioned about Chanyeol during their time at the shooting range. About Chanyeol liking him. Is that even possible?

"What's on your mind, Baekhyun?" Sehun inquired when he noticed Baekhyun had fallen behind. "Oh, nothing really," Baekhyun fibbed, his mind recently consumed by the quest to uncover things he had never known before about the don. "I've just been thinking about what you said about Don at the shooting range—"

"About him being fuck-lust?" Baekhyun blushed faintly as he heard the word again, that wasn't what he was thinking about, but the mere thought of it still embarrassed him. "Not really."

"I will still tell you. When I said that, I meant that it signifies an insatiable sexual desire for someone special, someone you constantly think about."

Baekhyun's voice quivered as he mumbled, his fingers idly playing with the back of his neck. "Ah, I think I get it now."

Sehun's grin grew wider as he observed Baekhyun with a mischievous glint in his eyes. "You're turning pink, my friend. Come on, what's cooking in that brain of yours?"

Baekhyun hesitated, trying to avoid Sehun's piercing gaze. "It's nothing. I'm just... myself, you know?"

Sehun leaned closer, his tone teasing. "You've got a soft spot for him, don't you?"

Baekhyun's eyes darted around nervously as he blurted out, "Capo Sehun, he can't stand me." The mere thought of having feelings for Chanyeol, especially when they appeared to despise each other, brought a blush to his face. It just seemed too far-fetched.

Sehun leaned in closer, his words laced with conviction. "Baekhyun, be honest with yourself. Despite the way he treats you, there's something about him that draws you in, right? You can't escape that attraction, can you? Let me level with you – when it comes to the Don, playing by his rules is your best chance to leave this place. Taking the Omertà oath is just a step, but it doesn't guarantee your freedom, especially since you're not a made man. Remember, he's the boss. Tell me, do you truly think swearing the Omertà oath alone will be your ticket out of Chanyeol's grasp? He's the one holding all the cards and one day, he could decide to end it all without me having any say in the matter."

"Thank you, but why are you telling me this, Capo Sehun? Am I still on the death list?"

"Of course not, but if you have to use your charms to escape and return to your normal life, do it. However, it's not a guarantee for you because even when you leave here, you won't be truly free. He will always find you. The mark on your body is his mark, different from the ones we all bear."

"What does that imply?" Baekhyun questioned, a growing sense of dread beginning to infiltrate his thoughts. The idea of not evading Chanyeol filled him with fear.

"It means that as long as you carry his mark and are still alive, you will never escape his influence. You belong to him."

~
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As the sun descended towards the horizon that same Saturday, its radiant rays stretched out to embrace the mansion's sprawling front yard. Baekhyun perched on his favored windowsill, his gaze fixated on the winding driveway that unfurled like a ribbon toward the mansion's grand entrance. He couldn't shake the words of Capo Sehun from his mind, the ominous reminders that he was bound to Chanyeol by an unbreakable oath and a permanent mark etched upon his back.

The idea of being tied to a man as formidable and inscrutable as Chanyeol sent shivers down Baekhyun's spine. It was as though he were trapped in a never-ending game, destined to navigate the complex web of Chanyeol's world, where every move had consequences, and every glance held secrets. The thought left Baekhyun with a constant sense of unease as if he were fated to share his life with a man who embodied both danger and allure. The thought of his mother's whereabouts added up to his burden—he sighed. The atmosphere is surprisingly se­rene, today had been void of any activity, leaving him curious about Park Chanyeol, the e­nigmatic owner known as the formidable Don of the Fire and Light Mafia.

As moments stre­tched into an eerie­ silence, occasionally broken by the distant chirping of birds, Baekhyun's ears caught a faint murmur emanating from standby soldie­rs. Intrigued, he sat up and listene­d attentively. Gradually, the distant rumble­ of engines grew loude­r - an unmistakable sign of approaching vehicles. A surge­ of excitement race­d through Baekhyun's heart. His fascination with Chanyeol and the enigmatic allure of danger le­d him to do something he knew he shouldn't.

He le­aned closer to the window—his little note at hand that he'd been using to scribble things about Chanyeol on how much he detested the man before he ge­ntly pulled apart the curtains to catch a fleeting glimpse­ of the approaching convoy. The dusty gravel road stirre­d up clouds of dust as the first car emerge­d, its sleek and commanding prese­nce followed closely by othe­rs. With a graceful stop in front of the mansion, the le­ad vehicle conceale­d its occupants behind dark tinted windows. Baekhyun straine­d his eyes, hopeful to disce­rn any telltale sign of the e­nigmatic Mafia Lord.

As if aware of his gaze­, Chanyeol gracefully eme­rged from the front car. He e­xuded an air of authority, impeccably dresse­d, causing a chill to run down Baekhyun's spine. Howeve­r, it was the moment Chanyeol's e­yes glanced in his direction that time­ seemed to come­ to a standstill.

Baekhyun and Chanye­ol locked eyes, the­ir gazes intense in a charge­d moment. Baekhyun flinched, fe­eling as if he had bee­n caught red-handed, reminisce­nt of the very first time he­ had dared to sneak a pee­k through the window.

Chanyeol's e­xpression remained unre­adable, his lips forming a faint, knowing smirk. Baekhyun quickly let go of the­ curtain and stepped back from the window, fe­eling his heart race in his che­st. Once again, the Mafia Lord had caught him, and this ele­ctrifying encounter left Bae­khyun both thrilled and terrified. His world was now fore­ver intertwined with the­ enigma that was Park Chanyeol.

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"Park Chanyeol brought his doom home," those words from Sehun lingered in Minseok's mind for weeks. Initially, Minseok had brushed it off, not fully grasping its significance. However, lately, he had become increasingly intrigued by it. An invisible barrier seemed to separate the Don and Baekhyun, a barrier that Minseok desperately wished to breach. After observing the way Chanyeol looked at Baekhyun who was standing by the window earlier today, he was convinced that Chanyeol was concealing something, evident in the way he looked at Baekhyun. Passions could indeed be a man's doom in life.

As the sun dipped below the horizon and Chanyeol retreated into the haven of his opulent mansion, Minseok, his so-called trusted second-in-command, made his way to his quarters within the sprawling estate. His residence was no ordinary house; it was a fully furnished 5-bedroom duplex. Also, the same type of luxury was provided for other Capos and their soldiers, a testament to the considerable wealth Don had amassed through his involvement in the shadowy world of the Mafia. Aside from the camp where Minseok lived alongside his comrades, Minseok had acquired a separate property with the money earned from their illicit activities—a house where his family resided, a tangible symbol of the wealth the Mafia lifestyle could provide.

Their day had been anything but ordinary, beginning with a visit to the Commissioner of Works to secure a new contract that the Don had been working on. The subsequent hours were filled with intense labor, as they went about their daily operations. A brief pause allowed them to visit the hospital, where they checked on Baekhyun's mother, who was regaining consciousness but still on the path to recovery after her surgery. Without much respite, despite it being on a Saturday, they returned to work to finish a few paperwork before finally returning home.

In the peace of his surroundings, Minseok savored a fleeting moment of tranquility, knowing that another initiation test loomed on the horizon. However, this one was unlike the standard recruitments; Chanyeol had shifted his focus to the Cugines, young, determined criminals hoping to ascend the ranks of the Mafia. These initiates weren't your typical candidates aspiring to become Made-men; they were a breed apart, and their initiation ritual was shrouded in secrecy. It was all set to unfold under the cover of night, a significant event in the enigmatic world of the Mafia.

Under the cover of dusk, and without Chanyeol's awareness, Kim Minseok discreetly assigned another Capo Henry the task of shepherding Baekhyun to the clandestine test venue at 11:00 p.m. It was an opportunity for the young man to witness the initiation, a process that often involved ruthless eliminations by the Cugines and Made-men. Minseok understood all too well the transformation Chanyeol underwent during these trials, as the Cugines themselves were a motley crew of ex-convicts, notorious criminals, serial killers, and even assassins. These were individuals who had walked the darkest paths, some embracing violence as a way of life, others tainted by accidental bloodshed.

To Kim Minseok, this was a chance for Baekhyun to peer into the abyss, a facet of life that Chanyeol undoubtedly wished to shield him from. It was a dance with darkness that promised a night filled with secrets and danger.

As Baekhyun was about to retire for the night, a knock on his door shattered the silence. It was Henry Lau, a not-so-friendly Capo under Minseok, and Baekhyun obediently followed him into the night. Baekhyun blindly followed Henry, on Minseok's commend and he dared not disobey. His sense of self-preservation fades amidst the turmoil within his mind.

They arrived at a seemingly ordinary construction site, but the mystery of their destination left Baekhyun perplexed and uneasy. Little did he know, a profound revelation awaited him in the shadows.

He followed Henry into an elevator, and when Henry pressed a button, the elevator descended underground. At this point, Baekhyun had a sinking feeling that he might not make it out alive. He wondered who would come to his rescue if something went wrong.

Baekhyun's first sight upon entering this ominous place, referred to as "hell," was witnessing Sehun commit a murder. Fear and trembling overcame him, and he instinctively wanted to retreat. However, he collided with Henry, who held him firmly and pushed him further inside, alerting Chanyeol and the others of their presence.

Upon meeting Baekhyun's eyes, Minseok grinned. "Look who made it to hell, boss. Baekhyun, our sweetheart!" So that the Don would also be aware of his presence, Minseok made an announcement. He understands that Baekhyun was fortunate that he skipped this stage before taking the Omertà oath since otherwise he would have been killed. A particular type of wrath overcame Chanyeol as soon as he set eyes on Baekhyun, and he immediately used two fingers to signal Minseok to come over. He said angrily if somewhat whispered, "What the fuck is he doing here?" and Minseok responded to him. 'To learn, boss.'

Minseok, seeing how tensed Baekhyun was when Chanyeol looked at him, knew that Baekhyun's presence would irk Chanyeol. "To learn what Kim Minseok? For fuck sake, he's not fully one of us. He is not even a Made-man." Chanyeol hissed. Not happy with Baekhyun finding out about what they do in hell.

"Boss, I apologize. However, he has already seen it. Could we just let him stay here? In a sense, he is now a part of the group." Minseok bowed in contrition. He was the subject of Chanyeol's rather cold but suspicious look. But in the end, Chanyeol gave up and allowed Baekhyun to stay.

Two more Cugines faced their trials. After successfully eliminating their respective targets, they found themselves with just one remaining target, with no Cugine. Of course, Sehun had already eliminated the Cugine of failing to kill the target. Minseok momentarily stopped them, and withdrew, returning swiftly with a rifle in hand. To Chanyeol's astonishment, he approached Baekhyun and handed him the firearm, accompanied by an unexpected directive to shoot the last target. Indirectly trying to tag Baekhyun as one who did his test with the Cugines.

"Take it, Baekhyun. I assume you're one of us. By firing that shot, you demonstrate your allegiance to Fire and Light," Minseok urged. Baekhyun regarded the firearm with a conflicted expression and softly murmured, "I swore the Omertà oath not to take a life but never to share a single word spoken, seen or heard beyond these walls," as Baekhyun proclaimed, then he cautiously began to step away, his tension palpable as he held his breath.

"Could you please clarify the implications of this for me? What exactly does your alteration entail?" Baekhyun kept his gaze lowered, while Minseok scowled at him with evident anger. "You think that just because you've sworn the Omertà oath, we'd let you off the hook?"

Baekhyun shook his head, his eyes avoiding Sotto's piercing gaze. As Minseok took a step closer, Baekhyun instinctively moved away, mindful of the gun still in Minseok's grip. Chanyeol quickly reminded him of his commitment to take any necessary actions to ensure his safe escape from this perilous situation. Given the high-stakes nature of Minseok's dangerous game, the directive was clear: "You've claimed you'd do anything to survive; consider this as one of those 'anything' and pull the trigger."

Baekhyun anxiously nibbled on his lower lip, casting a fearful glance toward Chanyeol, silently hoping that Chanyeol would intervene and persuade Minseok to release him. Nonetheless, his trembling hands reluctantly accepted the firearm from Minseok's grasp. The weight of it was palpable, a stark reminder that it was likely fully loaded. Baekhyun gingerly raised the weapon, aiming it towards the final target, whose life hung in the balance. His heart thundered so loudly he feared they might hear it echoing in the room.

Baekhyun locked eyes with the terrified young man he had been instructed to eliminate. He saw the desperation and silent pleading in the man's tear-filled gaze. How could he not, when the man's mouth was securely taped shut? For a fleeting moment, Baekhyun imagined himself in that same vulnerable position, bound and awaiting his demise. He recognized the man's profound sense of helplessness. Suddenly, Minseok's voice shattered the tense silence from behind.

"I SAID STOP HESITATING AND PULL THE TRIGGER!" Minseok yelled. Baekhyun jolted awake from his reverie, taking in a deep, shuddering breath. He couldn't do it; he couldn't stain his hands with another person's blood. His mother hadn't raised him to be a killer. Believing that Baekhyun might have contemplated taking the shot, Minseok abruptly turned, the gun now aimed at Minseok himself, who cursed in response, and ultimately at Chanyeol.

"BAEKHYUN!" Sehun's sudden shout prompted him to make a move for the gun, but Minseok swiftly intervened, seizing Sehun's hand. "What on earth are you doing, Baekhyun?" Sehun hissed in a whispered yell. "Have you lost your mind?"

The other Capos in the room instinctively aimed their firearms at Baekhyun, who now appeared to be a threat for pointing a weapon at the Don. However, Chanyeol had a different perspective. "Leave him be," Chanyeol asserted, stifling a snicker, signaling his men to stand down. He locked eyes with Baekhyun, his expression grave, and his gaze seemingly penetrating deep into Baekhyun's soul. "What are you waiting for, Baekhyun? Shoot me." Chanyeol prodded him. Yet, Baekhyun, trembling, remained frozen. With teary eyes locked onto Chanyeol's and his finger on the trigger, he found himself immobilized. "Please, stop this cycle of killing, it's evil." Baekhyun implored.

"Everyone, leave us!" Chanyeol issued a commanding order, and the Capos in the room exited, including the Cugines who had completed their trials. Minseok hesitated but eventually complied with Chanyeol's request to wait outside. Once the room was empty, Chanyeol retrieved a cigarette from its pack and lit it. "What's holding you back from pulling the trigger, Baekhyun? I thought you had the intent to kill me. Do it quickly, and stop being a coward," Chanyeol urged, taking a drag from his cigarette and releasing it into the air, where it blended with the mist of his breath. "Didn't anyone teach you that you don't look into the eyes of those you're about to kill because they will end up hunting you forever?" Chanyeol smirked at the notion. "Believe me, if I reach you before you fire that shot, you'll regret it." Chanyeol released a half-chuckle before rising from his seat and leisurely advancing toward Baekhyun.

"What did you do to my mother? Have you hurt my mother?" Baekhyun's voice trembled, his eyes brimming with tears, and Chanyeol found himself startled. When the detectives had delivered the unsettling news of his mother's disappearance, Baekhyun's accusatory finger had instinctively pointed at Park Chanyeol. After all, there was no apparent motive for anyone else to kidnap his mother so abruptly. Why on earth would Chanyeol be entangled in his mother's disappearance? The question hung in the air, thick with tension, as if the very universe demanded an answer.

"No, I haven't. At least, not yet," Chanyeol's response shattered Baekhyun even further. It seemed that this man had not only taken him captive but also held his mother's fate in his hands. How could someone be so heartless? The urge to scream, to confront Chanyeol and unleash his fury, surged within Baekhyun. But as he saw Chanyeol approaching, a predator in the shadows, he issued a warning filled with pain and loathing.

"Never assume I won't pull this trigger just because I've held back so far. I've got it in me," Baekhyun cautioned, retreating cautiously. But Chanyeol refused to relent, advancing relentlessly. "Tell me where she is, you heartless devil! Where's my mother? Because I swear, I won't hesitate to make this shot count." The tension hung thick in the air, a volatile standoff on the brink.

"THEN FUCKING SHOOT ME!" Chanyeol yelled, and in an instant, the gun discharged with a deafening BAAM.

Then, an eerie silence enveloped them...

Minseok's eyes widened in shock upon hearing the gunshot. He hurried inside, only to discover Baekhyun on the ground, pleading for his life. It turned out that Chanyeol had disarmed Baekhyun just before the gun fired, and he now held the weapon. What followed was Chanyeol deliberately firing in Baekhyun's direction, intentionally missing his target. Witnessing the fury in Chanyeol's eyes, Baekhyun retreated in fear, while Chanyeol continued his slow advance.

"Don, please, spare him!" Minseok shouted from the doorway as he sprinted toward Chanyeol to intervene. Nevertheless, Chanyeol fired again and again, progressively closing the gap until Baekhyun found himself cornered against a wall, trembling, with each shot deliberately off the mark. Chanyeol ensured that Baekhyun glimpsed his life flashing before his eyes. By now, the distinct whistle of multiple gunshots had left Baekhyun's ears ringing.

"Open your mouth," Baekhyun heard Chanyeol command as he stood before him, gun still in hand. At that moment, amidst the fear of what might happen next, his mind went momentarily blank. Why should he open his mouth? He gradually looked up at the man before him with tearful, pleading eyes. Yet, Chanyeol's eyes bore no resemblance to anything he had witnessed before. He had tested Chanyeol's patience countless times, but this was an entirely different level of anger. "I warned you that you'd regret it if I got to you," Chanyeol muttered, gazing down at him. Honestly, the person standing there couldn't possibly be the Don he knew; this man before him seemed more like a merciless beast and a monster. "P-please, I'm sorry, spare my life," Baekhyun begged once more.

"I SAID OPEN YOUR FUCKING MOUTH!" Chanyeol lashed out. His voice was loud and commanding, and Baekhyun obeyed, parting his lips to let the Don use him as he pleased. Suddenly, he felt the hot metal of the gun penetrate his open mouth, fitting uncomfortably inside. He wept because he knew his flesh would burn from the heat of the gun but couldn't utter a word. By now, his mind was spiraling, anticipating the gun's potential discharge at any moment. As Chanyeol pushed the gun's muzzle fully into Baekhyun's mouth, Baekhyun out of fear involuntarily started to urinate on himself. He had never experienced such intense fear and humiliation.

Minseok, witnessing Chanyeol's fury, was filled with fear for Baekhyun's safety. He recognized that he may have pushed Don to this point and saw Baekhyun bleeding from his nose and mouth, likely from the impact of Chanyeol knocking him down. Slowly, he approached Chanyeol to intervene. "Boss, please stop! It's my fault. I beg you, don't harm him."

Chanyeol ignored Minseok's apology, knowing full well that all of this had stemmed from Minseok's instigation from the beginning. If he hadn't anticipated such an outcome, why bring him there in the first place? Finally, he withdrew the gun from Baekhyun's mouth, the metal coated in saliva. He jabbed the weapon against Minseok's chest and walked away, leaving a frightened Baekhyun on the floor, shocked and unable to move a muscle, especially after his humiliating ordeal.

Minseok observed Chanyeol's departure from the hall and then redirected his attention to Baekhyun, who remained on the floor. He vented his anger at him, hurling curses. "You despicable fool! How could you even contemplate such an act? Do you wish to meet your demise? What twisted thoughts were running through your mind? Get out of my sight!" Minseok berated him. Baekhyun, with wet pants, hastily rose and fled the hall, fervently praying not to accidentally cross paths with Chanyeol.

As Baekhyun made his exit, Minseok trailed behind him. Simultaneously, he opened the magazine of the gun, only to discover it was empty. He sighed in frustration. "Aish! That asshole," he cursed Chanyeol for subjecting Baekhyun to needless terror when he knew the gun's magazine had run dry. It was clear Chanyeol had played a cruel game, placing the gun in Baekhyun's mouth and threatening to end his life.

Sehun, who had been waiting outside with Henry and the other Capos, inquired about whether they should proceed with the test. Minseok disapproved, issuing a stern directive, "Take the last man back to his cell, I must say that today is his lucky day. However, waste no time in carrying out the necessary action on the dead. Once you're finished, dispose of them, blend their remains, and flush their ashes down the drain, erasing every trace of their existence." With that, he walked away to meet Baekhyun outside.

"Yes, Sotto!" Sehun acknowledged Minseok's order before turning his attention to the Cugines who stood there. "Let's conclude the challenge, shall we?" Sehun announced as he approached them. Some of them were relieved, having passed the test, while the rest displayed palpable anxiety in their eyes from what they had just witnessed. The fear of being obliterated hung heavily over them, forcing him to make a choice. They knew what they signed up for when he decided to join the Mafia family, and the rule remained unchanged: you either eliminate or be eliminated.___

Baekhyun arrived at the mansion by 1:00 a.m. in the company of Sotto Kim Minseok and waited as the car came to a halt. Eventually, they reached the parking lot, where Baekhyun spotted Chanyeol's car, indicating the man's presence at home. However, apprehension gripped him about entering the mansion. He dreaded the possibility of encountering Chanyeol the moment he stepped through the door. So he remained still, silently wishing that Minseok could somehow read his mind and grant him a moment to prepare himself mentally.

Minseok appeared to sense Baekhyun's apprehension, evident in how he parked the car and remained quiet, casting occasional glances at Baekhyun. "What compelled you to do what you did today?" Minseok inquired, still bewildered. "Do you regard him as the villain? He has been nothing but good to you. Is your hatred for him that intense?"

Baekhyun's head hung low in a profound sense of shame. "I don't hate him," he confessed, his voice heavy with guilt, "I just needed to understand why he kidnapped my mother." His admission, however, elicited a scoff from Minseok. "Kidnapped your mother, you say? He didn't kidnap your mother, for heaven's sake. Your mother is in critical condition in the hospital, having undergone a life-saving brain surgery paid for by the Don. Goodness!" Minseok let out a deep sigh, exasperated. "You say you don't hate him? I don't think so. Do you grasp the peril you put yourself in?" Baekhyun struggled to hold back tears that threatened to spill from his eyes but failed; so he cried out aloud. He couldn't fathom why he had raised a gun against the Don, let alone pulled the trigger—fortunately missing. "I'm sorry, Sotto," he whispered, feeling relieved about his mother even though it made him feel indebted, his hand brushing away the tears on his face.

"First, it was Jongin, and now you're making my life a living nightmare as well," Minseok sighed heavily. "Next time, if you know you won't shoot a target, don't reach for the gun, no matter the circumstances. Because once you grasp that weapon, it's a point of no return. Do you understand?"

Baekhyun nodded in acknowledgment.

"Get out of the car and go to your room and wash up because you stink. Be aware that you will face consequences for your actions. I'll brief you on the details of your punishment tomorrow," Minseok instructed. Baekhyun bowed to Minseok and quietly exited the car, ignoring the inquisitive yet hungry gazes of other soldiers on the premises and Kyungsoo, who bore a worried expression on his face when he entered the mansion. As Baekhyun ascended the stairs and rushed through the door, he was in tears. Kyungsoo watched him without a word, noticing that Baekhyun appeared disheveled, his pants soaked, and dried bloodstains at the corner of his mouth. He couldn't help but wonder what had transpired in that harrowing ordeal.

"Why is everyone so upset today?" Kyungsoo mused aloud, though he wasn't specifically addressing anyone. This wasn't the first time such tension had filled the air. When Don had returned earlier, Chanyeol had stormed into his room, slamming the door with a resounding bang that had startled him. And now Baekhyun too? "Did they have a falling out?" he muttered with a hint of annoyance. The only person who could provide him with the complete story of what transpired was Sehun, but of course, that rascal was nowhere to be found when needed most.

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As Baekhyun and Minseok entered the hospital room on Sunday afternoon, his heart heavy with anticipation, Baekhyun found his mother lying on the bed. Tubes and machines surrounded her, the trappings of a long battle for health. Tears welled up in Baekhyun's eyes as he saw his mother, frail but alive. Minseok stood at a respectful distance, his presence a silent reminder of the lost trust. He didn't want to interfere with the intimate moment between Baekhyun and his mother, but he couldn't leave the room. It was a cautious move on his part, in case Baekhyun decided to reveal sensitive information to his mother that could compromise their mafia operations.

"Mom," Baekhyun whispered, his voice choked with emotion. He rushed to her side, embracing her gently, afraid to hurt her further. His mother's weak arms wrapped around him, and tears streamed down both their faces.

"Baekhyun, my sweet boy," she murmured, her voice trembling with love and relief. She cupped his face, her hands cool and gentle. "You're back, you're safe. I thought I'd lost you."

Baekhyun nodded, unable to speak as his emotions overwhelmed him. He kissed his mother's cheek, and they stayed in that embrace, mother and son, their hearts pouring out all the love and longing they had held for each other. It was a moment of reunion, a testament to the power of family and the enduring bond between a mother and her child.

Baekhyun, on the other hand, had no idea where they were heading when Minseok had asked him to get dressed that Sunday afternoon. It was only when they arrived at the hospital that he realized where they were. The shock of the revelation was still fresh in his mind as he reunited with his mother. It was an emotional rollercoaster for him, the mix of joy, relief, and apprehension all overwhelming his senses. The room was filled with unspoken tension, even amidst the heartwarming reunion between mother and son. Baekhyun's eyes never left Minseok, a constant reminder of the secrets he had to keep and the divided loyalties he now had to navigate.

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The days had been heavy with the unspoken tension that lingered between Baekhyun and Chanyeol since their fallout at the ominous place known as 'Hell.' Both had been avoiding each other, more so, Chanyeol was out of the country which was why Baekhyun didn't see him.

Chanyeol returned from a two-day business trip on Tuesday evening and, as he stepped into the mansion, he noticed something unusual. There, hanging by his door, was an unexpected note. In neat handwriting, it simply read, "I'm sorry." A soft smile tugged at the corners of Chanyeol's lips as he recognized the message, knowing it could only be from Baekhyun. He pocketed the note, a warmth blooming within him.

Meanwhile, Baekhyun had decided to take a step in mending the strained relationship. He found solace in the kitchen, attempting to bake cookies as a peace offering. But the reason he was in the kitchen wasn't just about the apology note. Kyungsoo, the mansion's chef, had gone to visit his parents for a few days and would be returning on Wednesday morning, leaving the kitchen unattended. Baekhyun took it upon himself to step into his friend's shoes and take care of the cooking.

The kitchen was filled with the enticing aromas of a homemade meal, a comforting gesture for his mother, who was still at the hospital but recovering quickly. In addition to the meal, Baekhyun decided to bake cookies for Don as a way to support his apology note. The kitchen was bustling with activity as he attempted to balance cooking for his recovering mother and crafting a peace offering for Chanyeol. However, as he reached for a pack of flour on the top shelf, he was reminded of the challenge his height posed. He stretched on his tiptoes, fingertips grazing the bag but unable to grasp it.

Unbeknownst to Baekhyun, Chanyeol descended the stairs and caught sight of the younger man's endearing struggle. He couldn't help but smile at the sight, finding Baekhyun's determination rather endearing. Chanyeol, who was considerably taller, reached out to effortlessly retrieve the flour for Baekhyun.

But, as fate would have it, the bag was already slightly torn. The flour burst forth like a white cloud, engulfing Chanyeol's head and face. In a matter of seconds, he transformed from the imposing Mafia Lord to a comical figure, a floury clown. Baekhyun tried to stifle his laughter, but the sight was too hilarious to contain.

Chanyeol's initial annoyance softened as he heard Baekhyun's laughter, a rare sound in those troubled times. Instead of retreating to clean himself up, he seized the flour bag and, with a playful gleam in his eyes, retaliated by showering Baekhyun with the same flour. The kitchen became a battlefield of laughter and flour, a moment of connection amidst the chaos.

As the laughter subsided, Baekhyun and Chanyeol stood there, faces smeared with flour, their eyes meeting in an unspoken truce. It was a peculiar, messy way to mend bridges, but it felt like the first step toward understanding and maybe even something more.
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Authors note 📝

What is Kim Minseok up to?🤔

Q: Do you want that something more?😉😊❤️

👀 Baekhyun is still writing notes about Chanyoel. Do you anticipate the day Don will find out about what Baekhyun has been writing about him?👀🤭

I hope you enjoyed the Chapter.🥺🥹 One more Chapter and we will update The Nanny🫶😉 I can't write the two stories at once. It's one at a time so bear with me.