How to Become One 36

An arranged marriage that became unavoidable when his older brother — the heir — chose to marry for love.

Fortunately, his first impression of his prospective partner isn't bad. But…

"It would have been better if we'd matched the dates."

The dates he was referring to were the rut cycle.

"Why?"

Even though he already knew the reason, he pretended not to.

"Because it increases the chances."

The voice that answered so calmly was still soft and gentle — but that warmth wasn't meant for him.

In the end, this is a marriage with the purpose of having a child. There's no reason for him to be any kinder to me than that.

It was easier not to have expectations from the start.

That's what he had tried to tell himself…

"…What is this? I don't know how to handle this…. When you're good to me, I end up wanting more and more. I don't want to be like that."

"Jinwoo."

"Stop it…. Don't be any kinder to me than this…."

In the end, he hung his head low and gave up on meeting his gaze.

He didn't want to become any more miserable than this.

He felt the other man's hand try to lift his chin, but he held firm against it.

He was sure he looked like a mess. He only ever wanted to show him his pretty side.

"Jinwoo, I want to see your face. Show me."

"…No."

"Want more. It's okay. No — I'd be glad if you did."

Is it really okay? He said it was fine, and just like that, Jinwoo couldn't help but want to lean into it.