My eyes leisurely blink open, head sunken inside the fluffy silk pillow. I stare blankly into the pale ceiling, unaware of where I lay. I turned my head and took small glimpses around the room, lacking the energy to get up. Everything seemed unfamiliar and faint. A tightness began to kick in from the bottom of my throat, which in turn caused me to crave water. I rub my eyes in a soothing motion with the back of my hand, as memories from last night flashes quickly through my mind; like highlights of an old movie.

My body jolts up as if I had been struck by lightning. My gaze snaps beside me; my teeth sink into the corner of my bottom lip while I slowly peeked one of my eyes open only to see an empty, crumpled up bed sheet beside me. No Jungkook to be seen. I let out a groan inside of my pillow as I fell back onto the middle of the bed.

Why can't this be a damn dream!?

My desperate whine is engulfed by the pillow that I pressed against my face. I lay on my stomach while my feet kick the empty air in frustration. Only one night had passed and thus far - I was ready to rip my hair out. I can't live like this. I didn't have the strength to be living under their watchful gazes for the rest of my life. Oblivious to what lay ahead, even if it meant it was the death of me, more precisely my father's.

I wouldn't let myself be manipulated by that psychopath and his asshole of a son. I sat up from the heart-clenching thought. No, I can't do that to myself, I had to get out of here. I wouldn't be a chess piece in their little game. I won't let them make me something that I don't want to be, so they could reach their achievements. They can't control me. No one owned me. I belong to myself, and not even the darkest of days could keep me from believing that.

But I looked down at the heavy piece of silver that squeezed my ring finger. I allowed my fingers to grip around the ruffles of the disgustingly beautiful stone that was placed in the middle of the silver strip. But I could never fill my desire with this stupid ring glued onto my finger. I tried to yank the ring off, but it was stuck. I fumbled with the ring a bit more, and in one pull, it flicked off, flying into the air. I tried to catch it, but it bounced from one palm to the other like a hot potato, eventually landing on the edge of the bed.

"Don't fall, don't fall, please don't fall!" I chanted in my mind as I crawled closer towards the priceless ring. I watched in horror as the ring fell onto the floor from the shift of my weight on the bed in slow motion.

Shit!

I quickly jumped from the bed. I held my hair back to let me have a full view around the room as I anxiously tried to spot the ring that's probably worth more than my life. My gaze scoured the floor as I recited my prayers in my mind, hoping the ring was still in one piece as I went down on both my knees to check underneath the bed. I closed my eyes in relief when I spotted the diamond still intact, as it shone boldly in the dim light underneath the bed.

I stretched my arm under the bed, grabbing the ring, and sat up before I leaned against the side of the bed. I held the ring between my thumb and index finger, studying it.

I have always wondered if I ran from the past, would it be like this? Would it hold me back if I pulled hard enough? If I was strong enough, maybe I could be set loose from the invisible chains that held me tightly. The chains that had always felt like a noose around my throat, which grew tighter and tighter as the days passed, suffocating me until the day came when I would finally snap.

I wanted to run and hide - to leave this place, but living on the run and wondering when they would finally track me down every single day, was the same as living under this roof. No matter where I went, their presence would always haunt me.

I stood up and sat on the bed. I needed to cut the ties that held me to Jin. That was the only answer I could find, and the only tie I had was my marriage. I needed to put an end to this marriage. I needed to make Jungkook divorce me.

I had to show them that I wasn't an obedient little girl that they could control however they pleased. I would corrupt their plans and find their dirty secrets, holding it against them, forcing them to let me go.

Yes! That's it! I'll make Jungkook's life hell until he signs the divorce papers! I laughed at the thought, a new set of motivation filling me. Falling back onto the bed, I let the covers relax around my body as the rays of the sun filled me with its delight. I could breathe, I thought.

I could live once again...

..........

The early rays of the sun glowed through the echoey hallway windows, the place seemed different now in the wake of the morning. The walls glowed a much lighter and healthier grey tone making the place seem more spacious. Stepping past the oak doorway, the hall didn't give the same chills as last night even though the deispear still hung in the air, palpable enough to raise goosebumps on my arms as I made my way down the hall.

Two left turns and one right. I reminded myself as I tried to find my way towards the open lobby right before the metal stairs which lead to the main floor.

The minty taste that rolled off my tongue from the toothpaste from earlier, was evaporated being fulfilled with the familiar taste of pancakes and sweets, as aflavours taste invaded my nostrils swirling around me, my stomach grumbled at the mouth watering smell.

The iron stairs came into view as I stepped into the lobby surrounded with the grand fish tanks from last night. I hurriedly skipped past the middle of the lobby when I froze in my steps, hearing his murderous voice echo from behind me.

"What do you think you're doing?" my muscles tensed in defense as I twirled around on the heels of my feet, but seeing no one standing behind me.

My head shot in different directions trying to place where Jungkook's voice had come from but not finding him anywhere in sight. I spared a glance down the north and east hall before I heard his voice echo down the east hall once more.

"I never said anything about that, I gave you one task to do on your own while I was away." Jungkook's furious whisper shot my head towards the east hall letting me see a glimpse of his shadow before it had disappeared around the corner.

The shadow of his arm was raisen to his ear, he must be on a call. My unknowingly tense shoulders relaxed a bit knowing he hadn't seen me. I couldn't make sense of the tension that filled me when I saw him or even hearing his voice. I knew that it wasn't because I was scared of him, I could easily snap his neck in half if I needed to. Everytime he was around me, he brought the things that I had learned to push down to come back up, always making me feel naked in front of him. I had to leave before he saw too much, before he could make even more of a mess of my life then it was already.

I hesitated taking the first step down the stairs, I could hear his voice faintly down the hall. I had to leave this place but I needed to blackmail them and to do that - I had to get information. That phone call could be something... My gaze shot between his voice and the stairs letting out a sigh in defeat. I knew it was wrong. I shouldn't be digging through his privacy but I had no other choice, I was desperate. If I wanted to waltz with the devil I needed to get my hands dirty.

I lurk around the corner cautiously, praying that he wouldn't look back, staying close enough so I was able to over hear the call. "I don't care what it takes, just finish the job or do you need me to get involved?!" What did he need to get involved with? What is he trying to do?

Jungkook stressfully rubbed his temples in a rhythmic motion, trying to soothe the small bulge that was beginning to show on the side of his forehead. "I want him on his knees BEGGING for mercy before you end him." his words silenced my thoughts as I proceeded what he was spitting out about someone's life like it was worthless.

I slid into the arched shaped space inside of the wall, between the vase that held the pure white roses on the dark wood table. "I want it done by tonight or else you'll just have to replace him." My leg accidentally bumped into the petit table in the tight space causing the roses to move a bit in the vase. I gasped before my hand covered my mouth in shock. I froze.

His voice leaked of suspicion as he replied back to the unknown caller behind his screen. "I'll call you back". My lips quickly sealed against each other as I counted his footsteps that were gradually making its way closer to me. I pushed myself up against the furthest corner inside of the wall as I watched him sneak glances trying to find the cause of his suspicion. I bit down on my lip compressing my unsteady breathing. The small chuckle that escaped from him made my heart pound inside my chest.

It's not what it looks like I swear... I was wandering around and I happened to overhear your conversation... no, no, no as if he was going to believe that excuse, I couldn't even believe it. "It's probably in my head." Jungkook whispered to himself, turning back before he took a step closer revealing my hiding spot, my figure slumped against the wall in relief. I slowly peeked around the corner, watching him walk into a room a bit further down the hall, closing the door behind him.

Making sure the hall was cleared I leaned my ear against the door trying to hear more of the unfinished conversion, but no sound came through the thick door. I tried switching to my other ear cooping it with my hands as I leaned against the door frame. "Dang it, I can't hear anything." I mumbled under my breath scouring at the door, crossing my hands over my chest. If only I had some kind of machine in those movies, my mouth pointed up at the corners - at the wicked thought that slipped inside of my mind. I mean I could use it.... No one would get hurt.... No! What was I thinking, it's too dangerous.

"My lady?" I stood up straight at the sound of a woman's voice not too far from where I stood. The shot of fear seeped through me as if someone had caught me thinking about what I was about to do. An old woman with light fragile features stood not too far behind me. Her hair pulled into a flawless graying bun on the tip of her head, she wore a classic black dress that went a bit past her knee with a white lace apron draped around her waist. Even though the woman seemed to be in her late 50's the morning light seemed to guide her with an elegance that was hard to find in a modern setting like today. I glanced around to make sure she was addressing someone else other than me although it was evidetional she was, with her stone grey eyes locked on me.

"Um... are you.. Ah.. talking to me?" I say pointing to myself in question.

"Yes, my lady. What are you doing here, if I may ask? This wing of the house is restricted to everyone by Mr. Jeon, meaning you shouldn't be here" her voice had a thick olden british accent that was stern and frightening, I never would have expected it coming from her petite figure. But her words struck my curiosity even more, why wasn't anyone allowed here? What was he hiding beyond these walls? But one thing I could guarantee myself was; wherever he may be hiding, it would be my one way ticket to freedom.

I turned my attention to the older woman who stood before me racking up a decent excuse in my mind. "I was looking for the kitchen and got lost on my way....." I did it again, my mouth was moving before my brian even knew what it was saying. Spitting out lies like it was a second nature to me. I offered a tight smile I could muster up trying to make the excuse believable at least. "What about you? Ms...." I cocked one of my eyebrows up.

"I deeply apologize for this rude gesture my lady, You can call me Madam Duffelese. I'm the head maid of the Jeons residence. I'll take care of any business you may need regarding the affairs and maintenance of this building or any personal issues you may have in the future." She said as she bowed her head a bit in respect, making me fumble with my fingers uncomfortably from her small action.

"I understand it's a mistake" a tight smile squeezed on her lips put me on edge as she continued on "but it shouldn't happen twice." Madam's voice was delicate and gentle even though her words sounded more like a threat then a mere warning.

"I was just going to wake you for breakfast, since you are awake, if I may, breakfast is right this way '' The awkwardness of the conversation strangled the air around me while I followed her, leading me back through the hall and into the lobby.

"Here we are my lady." Madame Duffelese stepped to the side letting me have the full view of the spacious dining room.

Black frames outlined the grand glass doors that showed the vibrant greenery in the green space, in the centre of the mansion. The sun had already risen high in the clear sky as its bright light made the diamonds on the side of the golden chain glitter that hung horizontally from the roof. The reflection of the diamonds made the large landscape painting, hanging opposite from the windows glimmer with sparkles. The dark black table was filled with foreign fruits and sweets along with simple treats from macarons to thick fluffy pancakes topped with airy whipped cream.

One of the four butlers who was standing in the right corner of the room walked over towards me. "My lady" he said, holding his hand out indicating for me to follow, I trailed behind him to the head of the table while Madame did the same. He pulled the grey chair out at the end of the table waiting for me to be seated, I looked at him unsure if I should take the seat. It didn't feel right like I had no right to be treated like this... it was too much too fast.

My eyes unknowingly trialed up to meet Madames, she gave me a reassuring nod as if telling me it's alright. Sitting down I mumbled a decent thanks to the man before he gave me a swift bow then left; returned to where he had once stood.

"Is everything to your liking my lady?" She asked casually. My eyes scoured the table, making sure I wasn't drooling at the schorious sight before me.

"Yes everything's perfect.... But why is there so much food? Is there anyone else coming for breakfast?" I asked.

"No my lady, the cook was unsure of what you may like so he wanted you to choose from a variety."

"Oh.... next time you don't need to make this much, some milk and cereal will do, really. Or even a granola bar." I glanced up at Madame who was concentrating on every word I spoke as if it was life or death, it wasn't too crazy to think maybe it was...

"Of course my lady then please enjoy your breakfast today. The car will be waiting for you in about half an hour to drop you off to school. My lad-"

"Madame?" My voice was a bit louder then I expected it to be however it did get her attention.

"Yes my lady? Is there a problem?"

"Can you not call me that, it makes me feel uneasy."

"Call you what my lady?" her thin eyebrows drew together unable to understand what I was asking her.

"That... My lady? It doesn't feel right, can you call me by my name instead?"

The light grey in her eyes that had settled had grown dark in an instant at the sound of my question like how they were in the hall before "unfortunately this is how it has been for centuries, I'm afraid Mr.Jeon would not fancy this sudden change."

Of course it's "Mr.Jeon" it's always him. God, can't I ever get away from his presence?

"I'm sure he wouldn't mind too much, since I asked you... right?" I say, trying to keep the venom out of my voice, hopefully looking at her from the corner of my eye.

"Well... I suppose it'll be alright, since it is a request.." I bite down on my lip compressing the satisfied grin that was starting to form from my small victory. Ha! Eat that Jungkook.

"But if you wouldn't mind, I would like to introduce you to your two personal maids."

"Personal maids?" My head stirred up in confusion, I followed her gaze to the main doors which we had entered from.

Two girls appeared, they both looked to be older than me maybe in their late twenties. The plump one had her fiery hair braided into two pigtails pulled back into one full braid while the other had a much more lean figure. She wore her black cropped hair into a simple ponytail, Her dark fair skin was matched with deep brown eyes that bore holes into her feet. The plump girl flashed a pearl smile making her green eyes sparkle as she looked at me in amazement like I was some god. I shifted in my seat trying to look anywhere but at her intimidating gaze.

"This is Lily'' Madame pointed at the fiery head girl "and Miranda" directing her gaze to the quieter one of the two once they stood across from me. Miranda's brown eyes finally met mine when she heard her name being called, giving me a small nod before going back to staring down at the floor.

"They will take care of your basic everyday necessities or anything involving inside or out of the mansion," declared Madame.

"My lady." Lilly chirped as they both bowed, lifting the tips of their flowing short black uniforms that had white lace ruffles at the bottom.

"You don't need to bow, it's okay and call me Elyna instead, I prefer it better."

"Oh sorry..." Lilly mumbled out in shame, deflating her golden smile.

"You don't need to apologize, you didn't know..." I quickly added, A guiltiness spread inside of the pit of my stomach, seeing a frown form on her thin lips. It disappeared quickly when the smile was put back into its place, letting Lilly return back to her cheery self.

"Is there anything we may help you with before we leave?" she asked with a bit too much enthusiasm.

"No I'm fine.... Thank you." I say pressing a small smile towards her.

"No need to thank us, it's our job." She gleamed in delight. "But Elyna," Lilly blurted out, her eyes holding my gaze, debating to say something more.

"Yeah?"

"You should make sure to finish your meal, you're much thinner in person." Pressing her lips together she hesitantly countuined. "You need more nutrients if you want to carry the next heir of the Jeons." She stammered out in one breath. I hadn't realized my jaw dropped a bit hearing her small comment causing her to erupt in a fit of small giggles.

Her giggles morphed into a small whimper of pain as Marandia's heel dug into Lilly's shoes, but not fast enough then she would have liked.

"Lilly!" Madames raised voice made all the movement in the dining room come to a halt. My eyes stayed on Lily's frozen body, terror blazed through her eyes quick enough to seem like it was never there. Her pale face and clammy hands that failed to disappear made me know my mind wasn't playing tricks. She regained her stance, glueing her once thrilled eyes on the floor, her lips trembling in fear.

I wasn't able to comprehend anything else seeing the two shrink down into small ants below Madames murderous stare. "You're dismissed." Without another sound the two quietly disappeared out of the dining room along with the butlers who followed behind them in a synchronized line.

I watched as the door that was the length of the floor to the two story ceiling closed behind, the sound filling the lonely room. I could feel the sour tingle of the atmosphere settle in, the fear in her eyes was still fresh in my mind. I wondered if she would be alright, that fear in her eyes wasn't something that would happen over a shreal of a comment. To be honest, I was worried if I was going to see her again still breathing, knowing even the smallest of consequences in the underworld could leave the deepest scars.

"My la-'' Madames voice dimmed realizing what she called me, as I slowly returned back to where I was, her grey eyes had turned to steel.

"My apologies, E-Elyna. I'm apologizing beyond their behalf they must be tired from the week's preparations not being aware of what they are saying." Her voice dripped with ice. I searched her face trying to find something, anything, that looked like the fragile old woman before but found nothing.

Her expression had changed. I couldn't understand who the woman that stood before me was, the light and trusting aura that once embraced her had cruppled away leaving no trace or remains behind.

I hadn't realized she was waiting for my response as I searched her face, I gave her a small nod not being able to trust my voice as I tore my gaze away. Boring my attention into the glass plate in front of me like it was the most fascinating thing I had ever seen, listening to her unfamiliar distant voice countuine on.

"Eylna as you have spoken to Mr.Kim about this marriage agreement beforehand, I have been notified to remind you again that whatever happens in these walls must stay in them." My head shot up with her words.

"You knew? But, but how?" When the realization struck me that Jin or Jungkook must have told her at some point.

"Yes I am aware of your... situation. But you are forbidden to talk about this matter nor any of the others' real identity with anyone else, even the staff. Only a selected few know about the current situation in hand, me being one of them. You will be provided a place to sleep and eat here, classes will be held if needed for preparations of any public outing. There is no need to get more involved in this matter then what is necessary." She warned.

"Additionally if there is a breach found of any information outside of these gates or even a rumor in the halls of this building, the consequences will not be taken lightly. Is that understood?"

I gazed up at her in disbelief and disgust, letting out a scoff "But why would it be my fault if there is? I mean... what if I never even started it? So I'll just take the blame for whoever did?" My voice began to escalate faster as the questions rolled off my tongue.

"Everyone has already signed contracts and agreements before they entered this house, it's very unlikely they would do such a thing if their lives are on the line, don't you agree? They have too much to risk." I had to brace myself, clamping down on my thighs so I wouldn't rip her throat out.

But haven't I given up just as much as them? I wanted to ask her. I had to give up my wedding vows that bound me to an asshole who was the son of a psychopath. I gave up the chance of hope to find a new light... a new start... so I could face the place I was running from since the day I was born! My life was just as on the line as theirs, I'm risking everything just like them. Don't you think I qualify like the rest?! I wanted to scream at her but couldn't bring myself to.

I swallowed down the words that weren't strong enough to form on my tongue, hating what I had started to become. I listened to the clanking of her heels against the marble floor as she left the room, letting my head lean back onto the chair in defeat of the exhaustion swarming around me.

I didn't want to face what I had agreed to in the basement that night. I've seen darkness before, the kind that makes the streets look like an old fashioned photograph, everything a shade of grey. Or the one that haunts my mind every time I think of my father, my past, who I am. But this darkness that I tangled myself with this time was nothing like that. 

This is the darkness that robs me of my senses and replaces it with a paralysing fear in every waking minute. In this darkness I sit, muscles cramped and unable to move. I only know my eyes are still there because I can feel myself blink, still watching everything happen before me. Hearing the rising and falling of my breath as everything buzzs around me in a haze. I guess that should bring my heart rate down below the level of "rabbit in a snare" but it doesn't. By my birth I was trained to hunt and kill, that is what I am. Who I am. I am the predator but why do I feel like prey in this utter blackness?

The waves of emotion that I felt from last night came crashing back as I was left with my menacing thoughts. I didn't want any of this anymore I thought. The desperate wanting to go back home...to go back to her, crept inside of me. But there wasn't a place I could call home anymore, there wasn't a place where I could run away and hide. I didn't have a home... not anymore.