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player279achlys · 2 months ago

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The golden rabbit’s legacy (Hwang In-Ho x fem! reader)

Il-nam’s granddaughter taking his legacy and falling in love with the Frontman.

Pairing: Hwang In-Ho/Frontman x Original!female!Character

Summary: In the shadow of her grandfather’s empire of death, Melinoe, the brilliant granddaughter of Oh Il-Nam, steps into the blood-soaked legacy of the Squid Games. Determined to honor her family’s name, she rises as the most cunning and ruthless hostess the games have ever seen. But with power comes danger—not only from the players and scheming VIPs but from Hwang In-Ho, the enigmatic Front Man whose obsession with her knows no bounds.

As Melinoe reshapes the games into her own vision of twisted justice, she must navigate deadly alliances, unrelenting VIP attention, and In-Ho’s possessive devotion. When her grandfather enters the arena and Gi-Hun fights to survive, the stakes reach a breaking point.

Can you control the games without letting them destroy you—and will love be your salvation or your undoing?

Previous chapter: Introduction

Next chapter: Chapter I

Warnings: afab!, angst. Fear of losing someone. Smut (light kinda), grumpy x sunshine, dark romance, age gap, possessive, obsessed, paranoid and dominant In-Ho, daddy issues, yandere behaviour, jealousy, violence, murder, typical squid game stuff.

English isn’t my first language, if there are any mistakes, please forgive me. :)

Prologue:

The year was 2019, and the 32nd Squid Games loomed like a specter over a remote island cloaked in secrecy. Within the cold steel walls of the control room, Hwang In-Ho sat in his dark brown leather chair, the geometric lines of his mask casting sharp shadows against his pristine black suit. His gloved hands drummed rhythmically on the desk, though his thoughts were far from the screens flickering before him.

Ever since Oh Il-Nam had mentioned her, the granddaughter he adored, a storm had brewed within In-Ho’s chest. Melinoe. The name rolled through his mind like a haunting melody. A law graduate, fiercely intelligent and ambitious, and now, his obsession. For two years, he had watched over her from the shadows, keeping her safe from the treacherous world he inhabited. No boyfriends. No suitors. No threats. He ensured that. Every time someone tried to draw near, they vanished, erased from her life like an ink smudge wiped clean.

And now, she was here—on the island, no longer a distant specter but flesh and blood. She had arrived to take her place as her grandfather’s successor, a role that made his blood run cold. She couldn’t be part of this. Not her.

Melinoe gazed out of the helicopter window, her heart a mixture of dread and determination. The turquoise waves below seemed endless, their beauty a cruel irony against the darkness she was plunging into. Beside her, Oh Il-Nam sat, his frail frame betraying the vitality of his sharp mind. He was explaining the games, their origins, and their grim purpose with a calmness that unnerved her.

“I know this is overwhelming, Melinoe,” her grandfather said, his voice rasping. “But this is our legacy. It’s what we’ve built for generations to come. You’ll understand.”

“I already understand,” she replied, her tone resolute. “But I want to earn it. No favors, no shortcuts.”

Il-Nam’s lips curled into a smile, both proud and wistful. “You remind me of myself.”

As they landed, Melinoe’s sharp eyes scanned the compound. Guards in crimson suits stood at attention, their masked faces obscuring any hint of humanity. Among them, one figure stood out. A tall man clad in black, his geometric mask as foreboding as the aura he exuded.

In-Ho.

He stepped forward, his presence commanding attention, though his voice was measured when he greeted them. “Welcome. Everything has been prepared for your stay.

Melinoe felt a shiver run through her. His tone was polite, but there was something in it—a weight, a gravity that spoke of authority and… something else. Their eyes met briefly, and though his mask hid his face, she swore she could feel his gaze piercing through her.

In-Ho’s footsteps echoed through the sterile halls as he made his way to the control room. The image of her lingered in his mind—her bright eyes, the way she carried herself with an air of determination that only deepened his obsession. She was sunshine, pure and radiant, and he was the storm cloud that threatened to swallow her whole.

He didn’t want her here. She didn’t belong in this hell. But she was resolute, and In-Ho knew better than anyone that once a player entered the game, there was no turning back.

Hours later, he found her in the observation lounge, studying the compound’s layout on a tablet. The room’s dim lighting cast a soft glow over her, accentuating her features. She looked up as he entered, offering him a polite smile.

“You must be the famous Front Man,” she said, her voice teasing yet respectful.

“And you must be Melinoe,” he replied, his tone neutral.

“Eun-Seol,” she corrected, her lips curling into a smirk. “That’s the name I’ll use in the games.”

“You’re not joining,” he said, his voice dropping an octave. It wasn’t a question. It was a command.

Her brow furrowed. “Excuse me?”

“You’re not joining,” he repeated, stepping closer. “This isn’t a game for someone like you.”

Her temper flared. “Someone like me? You mean someone who isn’t desperate? Someone who doesn’t fit the narrative of redemption or revenge?” She stood, her chin held high. “If you think I’m going to sit on the sidelines while others risk their lives, you’re mistaken.”

In-Ho’s hands clenched at his sides. He loomed over her, his voice a low growl. “Do you have any idea what you’re stepping into? What these games will do to you?”

“I know exactly what I’m stepping into,” she shot back. “And I’m not afraid.”

Their gazes locked, the air between them charged with tension. For a moment, In-Ho allowed himself to admire her fire, even as it stoked the flames of his own desire. She was intoxicating, infuriating, and utterly irresistible.

Still not used to write on tumblr but HOPE you like this. On the previous story over 50 people liked it. I love you all so much <3

I hope to see you in here too. Hopefully you like it.

#front man #in ho #hwang in ho #love triangle #frontman #player 001 #the front man #lee byung hun #squid game #actually obsessive #in love #hwang in ho x reader #in ho x reader #frontman x reader #smut #angst with a happy ending #light angst #fluff

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player279achlys · 2 months ago

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The masters of the games (Hwang In-Ho/Frontman x fem! reader)

Pairing: Hwang In-Ho/Frontman/Young-Il/player 001 x fem!reader

Summary: After winning the tournament of champions Achlys, a gentle yet resilient former champion, is drawn back into the madness not as a player but as the enigmatic Frontwoman. Opposite her stands Hwang In-Ho, the stoic and commanding Frontman, a man whose quiet demeanor masks an all-consuming obsession with her-a love born from years of watching her survive and thrive.

As they orchestrate the games' most horrifying iteration yet, tensions rise. The cruel demands of the VIPs-twice the contestants, thrice the bloodshed-clash with Achlys's compassion, while In-Ho's possessive devotion becomes increasingly evident. The two navigate their growing passion, tested by jealous VIPs vying for their attention and their roles as overseers of humanity's darkest instincts.

But in a world ruled by greed and violence, their connection becomes a dangerous rebellion-a bond so intense it threatens to eclipse the games themselves. As power, love, and obsession collide, Achlys and In-Ho must decide if their love can survive the games-or if it will become their greatest undoing.

grumpy x sunshine. Enemies to lovers. Friends to lovers.

Warnings (if any): Angst. In-Ho is obsessed with the Original f! Character. Afab character. Love triangle (kinda?). Violence and stuff like portrayed in the tv series Squid Games. Love in survival horror games.

MDNI although there’s no explicit smut this isn’t for y’all.

This is the second and last part of "Bound by the games" where Achlys and In-Ho become the leaders of the games and rule over that island together.

THAT SAID LET'S BEGIN!

The island was buzzing with activity as Achlys and In-Ho In-Ho stood side by side, overseeing the preparations for the anniversary games. The games this year were set to be grander, bloodier, and crueler than ever before—a direct demand from the VIPs. Achlys, now the new frontwoman, wore a flowing white gown that contrasted sharply with the geometric white mask that covered her face. Her ethereal appearance captivated everyone who laid eyes on her, including the VIPs who had begun arriving to observe the preparations.

In-Ho stood beside her, his gray suit tailored to perfection, his black mask exuding power and authority. Though he spoke little, his mere presence demanded respect. His eyes, however, rarely left Achlys, scanning her every movement with a mixture of admiration and possessiveness.

The VIPs had taken notice of her. Too much notice. And it was driving him insane.

"Frontwoman Achlys," one of the square guards addressed her with a bow, "the VIP quarters are ready."

"Thank you," she replied, her soft voice calm yet commanding. She turned to In-Ho, her eyes glinting with an emotion she rarely showed—excitement, perhaps, or nerves. "Everything's coming together."

In-Ho nodded, his gaze lingering on her for a moment too long. "It has to be perfect. They'll expect nothing less."

"And it will be," she said, placing a hand briefly on his arm. The simple touch sent a jolt through him, though he masked his reaction. "We've worked too hard to fail now."

His chest tightened. He couldn't ignore how effortlessly she seemed to command attention, how even her slightest actions stirred something primal within him. But he also couldn't ignore the way the male VIPs leered at her or the way they fawned over her during their brief interactions.

The evening of the VIP's grand arrival came quickly. Achlys stood at the entrance to their luxurious quarters, her gown glowing under the moonlight. The male VIPs approached her one by one, bowing or kissing her hand as they introduced themselves. In-Ho stood a few paces behind her, his fists clenched so tightly his knuckles turned white beneath his gloves.

One VIP in particular—a tall man with slicked-back hair and an air of arrogance—lingered too long. "You are a vision," he said, his English thick with a European accent. "Perhaps the true prize of these games is not the money but a moment in your presence."

Achlys forced a polite smile. "Your kind words are appreciated," she said, stepping back slightly.

The man wasn't deterred. "I hope to spend more time with you during my stay. Perhaps dinner?"

"She's busy," In-Ho interjected, his voice cold and firm as he stepped closer. His towering presence seemed to suck the air out of the room. The VIP gave a nervous chuckle before retreating, but the damage was done.

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦

That night, Achlys sat alone in her quarters, the events of the day replaying in her mind. A knock at the door startled her. She stood, smoothing her gown before opening it to find In-Ho, still dressed in his suit, his mask tucked under his arm.

"May I come in?" he asked, his voice low.

"Of course," she said, stepping aside.

He entered, his gaze scanning the room before settling on her. "That VIP... he made you uncomfortable."

Achlys hesitated, then nodded. "He did. But I can handle it."

In-Ho's jaw tightened. "You shouldn't have to."

Silence fell between them, heavy with unspoken emotions. Finally, Achlys broke it. "You're always watching out for me, aren't you?"

His eyes softened. "Always."

"Why?" she whispered, stepping closer. "Why do you care so much?"

For a moment, he looked away, struggling to find the words. When he met her gaze again, his expression was raw, unguarded. "Because you're the only thing in this world that matters to me."

Achlys's breath hitched. "In-Ho..."

Before she could say more, he closed the distance between them, his lips capturing hers in a kiss that was both desperate and tender. She melted into him, her hands gripping his jacket as if afraid he might disappear. When they pulled apart, their foreheads rested together, their breaths mingling.

"I've wanted this for so long," he admitted, his voice trembling.

"Me too," she whispered, her cheeks flushed. "I just... I didn't know how to say it."

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦

The anniversary games began with a spectacle that left the VIPs roaring with delight. The arena was larger, the challenges deadlier, and the stakes higher. Over 500 contestants had been gathered—three times the usual number. Greed and desperation hung thick in the air as the games progressed, each round more brutal than the last.

Achlys and In-Ho observed from their private balcony, their masks in place. The male VIP from before—Anton, as he had introduced himself—lingered near Achlys at every opportunity, his attention blatant and unnerving.

During one of the quieter evenings, Anton approached Achlys in the grand hall, a lavish gift box in hand.

"For you," he said, his voice dripping with charm. "A token of my admiration."

Achlys hesitated, glancing around for In-Ho, but he was nowhere in sight. Reluctantly, she accepted the box, opening it to reveal a stunning diamond necklace.

"It's beautiful," she said, her voice cautious. "But I can't accept this."

"Please," Anton insisted, stepping closer. "It would bring me great joy to see it on you."

Before Achlys could respond, a shadow loomed behind her. In-Ho appeared, his presence like a storm cloud. "She said no," he said, his voice dangerously low.

Anton raised an eyebrow, a smirk playing on his lips. "And who are you to decide for her?"

"The one who protects her," In-Ho replied, his tone leaving no room for argument. "Stay away from her."

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦

Later that night, Achlys found herself pacing in her quarters, the memory of Anton's advances fresh in her mind. But what unsettled her more was the sight of one of the female VIPs—the elegant and flirtatious Madame Ling—hovering around In-Ho during the day's events.

When In-Ho entered her quarters, she wasted no time. "Who was she?" she demanded.

In-Ho blinked, surprised. "Who?"

"The woman who couldn't keep her hands off you," she snapped, her jealousy flaring.

He smirked, stepping closer. "Are you jealous?"

"Yes," she admitted, her cheeks flushing. "I hate it."

He cupped her face, his touch gentle. "You have nothing to worry about. I don't see anyone but you."

Before she could respond, his lips claimed hers, the kiss filled with passion and promise. Achlys clung to him, her emotions spilling over as they lost themselves in each other.

The kiss deepened, their movements growing more frantic as the walls they'd built around themselves crumbled. In-Ho lifted her effortlessly, carrying her to the bed as his hands explored her curves. Achlys shivered under his touch, her own hands tangling in his hair as their clothes were discarded piece by piece.

"I need you," he murmured, his voice raw with desire. "I've always needed you."

"You have me," she whispered, her voice trembling.

Their bodies moved together, each touch and kiss a declaration of their unspoken love. For that night, the horrors of the games faded, leaving only the two of them and the connection they shared.

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 .

The anniversary games were in full swing, and the island had transformed into a sprawling arena of cruelty and chaos. Over the past two weeks, In-Ho In-Ho and Achlys, as frontman and frontwoman, had witnessed contestants battling not only for survival but for the favor of the VIPs. Each round was a calculated spectacle, designed to showcase the darkest corners of human greed and desperation.

The days stretched long with preparations and overseeing the events, but the nights... the nights were where the tension between Achlys and In-Ho simmered, threatening to boil over. They worked together flawlessly in public, their synchronized authority earning them the grudging respect of the VIPs. But behind closed doors, emotions ran wild—jealousy, desire, and unspoken confessions roiled between them.

The days grew more tense as Anton's interest in Achlys became bolder. His remarks shifted from subtle compliments to outright advances, his attempts to woo her bordering on obsession.

During a grand feast one evening, the VIPs were gathered in their private lounge overlooking the games. Achlys sat beside In-Ho, her white gown glowing under the golden lights. Across the table, Anton raised a glass to her.

"To the true star of these games," he said, his gaze locked on her. "Our radiant frontwoman, whose beauty could inspire wars."

The other VIPs chuckled, clinking their glasses, but In-Ho's grip on his own glass tightened to the point of cracking. Achlys forced a polite smile, her discomfort clear.

"Your praise is appreciated," she said diplomatically, glancing at In-Ho for support.

Anton wasn't deterred. "I mean it, my dear. Your presence here elevates these games to art. Perhaps you would allow me to gift you something worthy of your elegance?"

"She doesn't need anything from you," In-Ho said sharply, his voice cutting through the room. The VIPs turned, surprised by his rare outburst.

Anton raised an eyebrow, smirking. "I wasn't aware she had a handler."

"I'm not her handler," In-Ho replied, his tone icy. "But I am someone who ensures boundaries are respected."

The tension in the room was palpable, but Anton backed down with a dismissive wave. "Of course, of course. My apologies."

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦

The next day, a massive box arrived at Achlys's quarters. Inside was an elaborate diamond-encrusted bracelet, its design intricate and obviously expensive. Achlys stared at it, her stomach twisting.

"He won't stop," she muttered, frustration lacing her voice.

"You should've refused it outright," In-Ho snapped, his voice tight with barely controlled anger.

"I didn't ask for it," she shot back. "What was I supposed to do? Throw it in his face?"

"That wouldn't be a bad idea," he muttered, pacing the room.

Achlys sighed, running a hand through her hair. "Why does this bother you so much?"

He stopped, turning to face her. His mask of calm authority cracked, and raw emotion spilled through. "Because he wants what's mine."

Her breath caught at his words. "In-Ho—"

He stepped closer, his dark eyes boring into hers. "I've been patient. I've tried to keep this professional. But every time I see him looking at you, touching you, I—" He cut himself off, shaking his head. "You don't understand what you do to me."

"In-Ho," she said softly, placing a hand on his chest. "I'm not interested in that VIP or anyone else. Only you."

Her confession hung in the air, heavy and electric. For a moment, they simply stared at each other, the weight of their emotions finally breaking the dam that had held them back.

In-Ho's lips crashed against hers, the kiss searing and desperate. Achlys responded with equal fervor, her arms wrapping around his neck as he pulled her close. The room seemed to blur around them, the only reality being the fire that burned between them.

He lifted her effortlessly, carrying her to the bed. "You don't know how long I've waited for this," he murmured against her skin, his voice trembling with desire.

"Show me," she whispered, her fingers trailing down his back.

Their clothes were shed in a flurry of motion, and as their bodies moved together, every touch and kiss became a declaration of the feelings they had suppressed for so long. In-Ho worshiped her with a reverence that made her heart ache, his hands and lips exploring every inch of her as if committing her to memory.

"You're mine," he whispered against her ear, his voice raw. "And I'll never let anyone take you from me."

"I'm yours," she replied, her voice equally fervent. "Always."

For hours, they lost themselves in each other, their connection deepening in ways neither had thought possible. The darkness of the world outside their door faded, leaving only the light they found in each other.

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦

The games continued, each round more brutal than the last. The contestants were pushed to their limits, forced to betray alliances, abandon friends, and sacrifice their humanity. The VIPs reveled in the spectacle, their laughter and applause a chilling backdrop to the carnage.

Achlys struggled with the cruelty she witnessed. Despite her role, she couldn't harden herself to the suffering. In-Ho noticed her turmoil, his protectiveness growing stronger.

"You're not like them," he said one night as they stood on their private balcony overlooking the arena. "That's why they're obsessed with you. You're real. Pure."

"I'm not pure," she replied, her voice tinged with bitterness. "I've done terrible things too."

"You survived," he said firmly. "And now, you're here. With me."

She turned to him, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "Sometimes, I wonder if I'm any better than them."

He cupped her face, forcing her to meet his gaze. "You are. Never doubt that."

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦

As the games neared their end, Anton made one last attempt to win Achlys's favor. During a private gathering, he cornered her, his intentions unmistakable.

"You belong with someone who appreciates you," he said, leaning closer. "Someone who can give you the world."

Achlys stepped back, her heart pounding. "I don't belong to anyone."

"Then let me change that," he said, reaching for her.

Before he could touch her, In-Ho appeared, his fury barely contained. He grabbed Anton by the collar, his voice a low growl. "Touch her again, and you'll regret it."

Anton sneered. "She deserves better than a broken man hiding behind a mask."

In-Ho didn't reply, but the look in his eyes promised retribution. He turned to Achlys, his hand on her lower back as he guided her away.

Later that night, Achlys sat in her quarters, the events of the evening replaying in her mind. In-Ho entered without knocking, his expression still dark with anger.

"I'm sorry," she said softly. "I didn't mean to cause trouble."

"It's not your fault," he replied, sitting beside her. "I just can't stand the thought of someone else having you."

"You already have me," she said, her voice trembling. "Don't you see that?"

His gaze softened, and he reached for her hand. "I do. And I'll do whatever it takes to protect you."

"I know," she said, leaning against him. "And I'll protect you too."

They sat in silence for a moment before he tilted her chin up, his lips brushing against hers in a kiss that was both tender and passionate. Their connection was undeniable, their bond unbreakable.

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 .

The games continued with their relentless cruelty, the contestants dwindling as the rounds grew more vicious. The VIPs were more entertained than ever, their twisted laughter echoing through the grand halls. Among them, Madame Ling—a prominent female VIP known for her cunning charm—had taken an obvious interest in In-Ho In-Ho. Her advances, though subtle at first, were becoming bolder with each passing day.

Achlys noticed. She noticed everything, from the way Madame Ling brushed her hand against In-Ho's arm during conversations to the way her sharp, painted smile lingered on him. Though Achlys tried to mask her growing jealousy, it simmered just beneath the surface, threatening to spill over.

The VIP lounge was opulent, its golden walls and crystal chandeliers exuding wealth and power. Achlys and In-Ho stood side by side, their masks firmly in place, as they addressed the gathered VIPs about the next round of games. Achlys wore a flowing white gown that seemed to glow under the warm light, while In-Ho's dark suit and mask gave him an aura of command.

As the presentation ended, Madame Ling approached them, her silk dress shimmering as she moved. She placed a hand on In-Ho's arm, her ruby-red nails sharp against the fabric of his suit.

"Frontman," she purred, her voice dripping with charm. "You've done a magnificent job. Truly, these games are unparalleled."

"Thank you," In-Ho replied, his tone polite but distant. He didn't look at her, his focus instead darting briefly to Achlys, who stood stoically beside him.

"I'd love to discuss your methods sometime," Ling continued, stepping closer. "Perhaps over dinner? I'm sure you have fascinating stories to share."

Achlys felt her stomach twist, but she kept her expression neutral, refusing to let her emotions show. Instead, she cleared her throat, drawing both their attention. "The frontman has a busy schedule," she said smoothly. "I'm sure you understand."

Madame Ling's eyes flicked to her, a glint of amusement in them. "Of course, Frontwoman. Though, surely, even someone as busy as he is can spare an evening."

Achlys clenched her fists, her nails digging into her palms. "Perhaps. But we both have much to oversee."

In-Ho, sensing the tension, stepped away from Ling's grasp. "Excuse us," he said, his voice curt. He placed a hand on Achlys's lower back, guiding her away. The touch sent a thrill through her, even as her jealousy burned.

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦

Back in their quarters, Achlys paced the room, her frustration bubbling over. In-Ho leaned against the wall, watching her with an unreadable expression.

"She's persistent," Achlys muttered, more to herself than him.

"Who?" he asked, feigning ignorance.

"You know who," she snapped, turning to face him. "Madame Ling."

In-Ho's lips twitched into the faintest smirk. "Are you jealous?"

Her cheeks flushed, but she crossed her arms, lifting her chin defiantly. "Of course not. I just don't think it's appropriate for her to... distract you."

"She doesn't distract me," he said, his voice dropping. He stepped closer, his presence overwhelming. "You do."

Achlys's heart raced as he closed the distance between them. "I'm not—"

"Don't lie," he interrupted, his hand cupping her cheek. "I see it in your eyes. You think I'd ever look at anyone else when you're here?"

She didn't answer, her breath hitching as his thumb brushed her cheekbone. "In-Ho..."

"I've told you before," he murmured, his lips inches from hers. "You're mine."

Her resolve crumbled, and she leaned into him, their lips meeting in a kiss that was both fierce and tender. The passion they had been suppressing erupted, their hands roaming as they clung to each other.

In-Ho lifted her effortlessly, carrying her to the bed as his lips trailed down her neck. Achlys's fingers tangled in his hair, her breath coming in soft gasps. Every touch was electric, every kiss igniting a fire that consumed them both.

"In-Ho," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. "I... I've never felt like this before."

"Neither have I," he admitted, his voice rough with desire. "But I don't want it to stop."

Their clothes were discarded in a flurry of motion, and as their bodies pressed together, they moved with a synchronicity that spoke of their unspoken connection. Achlys clung to him, her heart pounding as he worshipped her with a reverence that brought tears to her eyes.

"You're everything," he murmured against her skin. "Everything I've ever wanted."

She held him tighter, her voice trembling as she replied, "And you're mine."

For hours, they lost themselves in each other, their love and desire obliterating the darkness that surrounded them. When they finally lay entwined, their breaths mingling, Achlys felt a peace she hadn't known in years.

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦

The following days were a blur of chaos and tension. The games grew even crueler, the contestants driven to the brink of madness as the VIPs demanded more blood, more betrayal. Achlys and In-Ho remained a united front, their relationship strengthening as they navigated the storm together.

But Madame Ling wasn't finished.

During a lavish gala for the VIPs, Madame Ling cornered In-Ho once again. This time, her approach was bolder. She placed a hand on his chest, her painted lips curving into a seductive smile.

"You're an enigma, Frontman," she said, her voice low. "I'd love to get to know you better."

In-Ho stepped back, his expression cold. "I'm not interested."

Ling's smile faltered, but she quickly recovered. "Not even a little?"

"No," he said firmly, his gaze unwavering. "My loyalty lies elsewhere."

Ling's eyes narrowed, but she didn't press further. She wasn’t used to being told no and it showed. As she walked away, Achlys appeared, having witnessed the exchange from a distance.

"She doesn't give up, does she?" Achlys said, her tone light but edged with bitterness.

In-Ho turned to her, his expression softening. "She doesn't matter. Only you do."

Achlys's jealousy melted away at his words, replaced by a warmth that spread through her chest. "Good," she said, a small smile tugging at her lips. "Because you're mine too."

That night, as they lay together in the privacy of their quarters, Achlys rested her head on In-Ho's chest, her fingers tracing patterns on his skin.

"This world is cruel," she said softly. "But with you, it feels less so."

He kissed the top of her head, his arms tightening around her. "I'll protect you from it. Always."

"I know," she whispered, her voice filled with trust. "And I'll protect you too."

Their bond, forged in the fires of the games, was unbreakable. Together, they would face whatever horrors lay ahead, knowing that as long as they had each other, they could endure anything.

The end.

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 .

OKAY, let's not talk about the picture... I hate it.

This is how "bound by the games" end, a happy ending fro our broken couple.

I still don't quite like it but I'll be revising it.

As always, I love you, Achlys.

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