Page 49 of Gumiho Kiss
They weaved through the dim streets, only to be forced to stop once more when a large band of masked men in black appeared out of the shadows, heading south.
Hyun Soo’s protective instincts flared, but he steeled himself with the reminder that his job was to protect Lady Lee only.
“They look like they’re headed toward the southern district.Aren’t you going to do something?”she asked in a strained voice.The judgment in her gaze was unmistakable.
He arched one eyebrow.“If you mean, am I going to abandon you to go after a gang of criminals, the answer is no.”He nodded toward the road they needed to turn onto next.“Kang Dol Sam is expecting us.”
“But—” Her head swung from him toward the men disappearing around a bend.Her shoulders drooped slightly.“Of course you’re right.Only merchants live there, so why would you feel obligated to help them?”
Hyun Soo’s lip curled at the jab, but he refused to be swayed.
They’d just resumed course when a new figure in a blue silk robe emerged from a side street, flanked by six officers.Hyun Soo reached for his charge to pull her to the safety of the shadows, but Lady Lee rushed forward.
“Kim Min Joon!”
The lead figure started, then marched over to them, followed by his subordinates.
“Lady Lee, what are you doing here?”Inspector Kim asked, eying Hyun Soo with distrust.
Lady Lee sniffled, transforming from a headstrong noblewoman into the frightened flower Hyun Soo now knew was only a well-practiced act.
“I’m so glad you happened to come by.”She placed a hand over her chest, which heaved as though she were just barely keeping her fear in check.She pointed down the road.“There’s a group of suspicious men heading toward the southern part of the city.You need to stop them before someone gets hurt.”
Hyun Soo grimaced.Although Lady Lee’s body language conveyed the perfect mixture of anxiety and relief, there was something distinctly authoritative in her tone.A bit of her domineering nature peeking through.
Hyun Soo scrutinized Inspector Kim’s face for any telltale signs of indignation.He didn’t seem like the sort who enjoyed being ordered around by a civilian.
But concern showed on the inspector’s features as he nodded, then addressed his men.“You heard her.Get to the southern district quickly.”
The officers bowed and did as directed, scurrying away into the night.
Inspector Kim turned to Hyun Soo.“It’s getting late.You should take the lady back to her residence.”
“Actually, Inspector, would you escort me home?Mr.Park needs to relay a message for me.”Lady Lee smiled at Hyun Soo.“You will give my apologies to Young Master Kang, won’t you?”
He peered at her in puzzlement.They could have easily avoided being seen by the inspector and continued on their way to meet Dol Sam.Why had she given away their position?Was it to avoid meeting her fiancé?Or because Hyun Soo had refused to stop the criminals himself?
Her expression hardened for the briefest instant as their eyes met, revealing the anger simmering behind her facade.Ah.So, it was because he’d failed to confront the criminals.
Hyun Soo averted his gaze, chest suddenly tight.He didn’t like disappointing her, even if it was for a good reason.
He nodded in acquiescence.“I’ll return with haste.”He bowed to the inspector before darting off to give Kang Dol Sam the bad news.
* * *
As soon as they were alone, Chin Sun dropped the demure noblewoman act.“Thank you, Min Joon-ah.You go ahead, and I’ll catch up.”
Min Joon frowned.“What are you talking about?I thought you wanted me to take you home.”
“You didn’t realize I only said that to get rid of my bodyguard?”She laughed, then gestured to her attire.“But I can hardly help you in something this conspicuous.I’ll just hurry home and get changed.”
Understanding dawned on his face, followed by a quick shake of his head.“Absolutely not.Do you seriously think I’d let you come along?”
Chin Sun crossed her arms.“Since when have I needed your permission to do anything?”When he didn’t respond, she added, “Besides, I’m not about to let you have all the fun.”
Min Joon squeezed the bridge of his nose, a frustrated sigh escaping his throat.“It’s too dangerous without your powers, Chin Sun.”
She started to protest, but he grabbed her hands and pinned her with a hard stare.“You’re the dearest friend I have.I can’t lose you like I lost—” He didn’t finish.
