Alpha Culinary Love

As Karen was dragged out, still screaming my name, I felt a sense of relief. The immediate threat was over, but I knew the fight wasn't truly over. There would always be those who couldn't accept my choices, my love for Jiyeon.

I left the safe house feeling the oppressive scent of Karen's pheromones clinging to me like a toxic residue. The drive back to the mansion was filled with thoughts of Jiyeon and the life we were building together. I couldn't face her smelling like Karen. I needed to cleanse myself of every trace of that encounter.

When I arrived at the mansion, its grand stone facade and lush gardens a familiar comfort, I headed straight to the shower. As the hot water cascaded over me, I scrubbed my skin furiously, trying to rid myself of the artificial rose and musk scent. The hot steam mixed with the familiar strawberry scent of my own pheromones, finally overpowering the unpleasant odor.

Stepping out of the shower, the clean, refreshing smell of strawberries surrounded me, giving me a sense of calm and renewal. I dried off quickly, dressed in a simple but elegant dress, and headed to the hospital. Today was a significant day—Jiyeon was being discharged.

When I arrived, Jiyeon was already up and about, packing her things with a determined look on her face. She turned as I entered, her eyes lighting up.

"Yura! You're here just in time. Ready to bust me out of this place?" she asked with a grin.

I smiled back, relief washing over me. "Absolutely. How are you feeling?"

"Much better. Just a bit sore, but nothing I can't handle," she said, her voice confident and reassuring.

My parents were there too, bustling around, making sure Jiyeon had everything she needed. My mother, Min-Seo, gave me a knowing look as if sensing the weight of what had transpired but wisely chose not to comment.

With everything packed, we helped Jiyeon into the car. The ride home was filled with lighthearted chatter, the tension of the past days slowly dissipating. Jiyeon's recovery was almost complete, and her presence brought a sense of normalcy back into my life.

As we drove up the long, winding driveway to the mansion, its towering spires and ivy-covered walls greeted us. The scent of blooming flowers filled the air, a mix of roses, lavender, and my own strawberries. The place was a sanctuary, a fortress where we could rebuild and plan our future.

Once inside, I guided Jiyeon to the sitting room. "How about we relax for a bit before dinner? There's a surprise waiting for you later," I said, a hint of excitement in my voice.

Jiyeon raised an eyebrow, curiosity piqued. "A surprise? What have you been up to, Yura?"

"You'll see," I teased. "Just sit back and relax for now."

Jiyeon settled into one of the plush armchairs, the light from the chandelier casting a soft glow over her. She looked around, taking in the familiar surroundings. "I missed this place," she admitted softly. "It feels like home."

"It is home," I replied, sitting next to her. "And we're going to make it even better."

As the sun set, casting a golden hue over the room, I excused myself to check on the preparations. In the dining room, the table was set with fine china and silverware, candles waiting to be lit. The chefs had outdone themselves with a gourmet meal—Jiyeon's favorites.

I returned to the sitting room to find Jiyeon deep in conversation with my father, Min-Jun, discussing the latest developments in their respective businesses. She looked at ease, her usual sharp mind at work despite her recent ordeal.

"Dinner is ready," I announced, interrupting their discussion. "Shall we?"

Jiyeon stood, a smile spreading across her face. "Lead the way, Yura."

We entered the dining room, the sight of the beautifully set table eliciting a gasp from Jiyeon. "This is amazing," she said, turning to me. "You did all this?"

"With a little help," I admitted, feeling a flush of pride. "I wanted to celebrate your recovery."

We sat down, and as the first course was served, the conversation flowed easily. We talked about everything—plans for the future, dreams, and the obstacles we'd overcome. The candlelight flickered, casting a warm glow over Jiyeon's face, making her look even more radiant.

After dinner, we moved to the drawing room where a fire crackled in the hearth. Jiyeon and I sat close together on the couch, the warmth of the flames wrapping around us.

"You really went all out," Jiyeon murmured, her eyes locked onto mine. "Thank you, Yura. This means a lot to me."

"You mean a lot to me," I replied, my voice barely above a whisper. I leaned in, our lips meeting in a tender kiss. It was soft at first, but quickly deepened, the passion between us undeniable.

We pulled apart just long enough to make our way upstairs to our bedroom. The room was dimly lit, the bed inviting. We kissed again, more urgently this time, hands exploring, bodies pressing close.

But as we moved together, Jiyeon winced, a sharp intake of breath halting our progress. "I'm sorry," she gasped, pain evident in her eyes. "It's my side…"

I immediately pulled back, concern flooding me. "Are you okay? Do you need anything?"

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She shook her head, breathing heavily. "I just need to take it easy for a bit longer. I don't want to rush things and make it worse."

I nodded, understanding. "We'll take it slow. Your health is more important."

We settled back onto the bed, holding each other close, the intensity of our earlier passion giving way to a comfortable intimacy. "I love you, Jiyeon," I whispered into her hair.

"I love you too, Yura," she replied, her voice soft and full of emotion.

As we lay there, the peace of the moment was shattered by the sudden ringing of my phone. I reached over to the bedside table, answering it quickly to avoid disturbing Jiyeon.

"Yura," Soo-Min's voice came through the line, urgent and strained. "Karen has escaped."

My blood ran cold. "What? How?"

"We're not sure yet, but she's gone. I thought you should know immediately."

I thanked him and hung up, my mind racing. Jiyeon noticed my tense expression. "What is it?" she asked, worry creeping into her voice