Flowers Are Bait Chapter 257:
Previously on Flowers Are Bait...
As the crimson sunset painted the sky, Kwon Chae-woo performed daily at the site where the spirit tree had vanished, just as he promised.
Word of his extraordinary shows spread rapidly within days, and now, after two full months, crowds deliberately traveled from the mainland to Hwaido specifically to watch Kwon Chae-woo.
He started scheming to transform Hwaido into Asia's Lucerne (*a Swiss city famous for its elite music festivals) by deploying his family's vast resources.
The initiative aimed to position it as a musical hub through building a dedicated concert venue and drawing in regular festivals, global contests, music schools, and even a kids' song event.
During this period, Lee-yeon first caught Kwon Chae-woo conversing in German. The experience struck her as odd yet captivating, leading her to linger nearby often just to listen in.
On such occasions, Kwon Chae-woo would carry on with his call without a fuss, cut it short suddenly, and approach her swiftly. The rough tone of his foreign speech matched him perfectly, like that of a true local.
Ive been pondering the babys name for some time.
Lee-yeon strolled through the reed fields alongside Kwon Chae-woo, her belly now prominently swollen.
What is it?
Nam-woo.
Wood?
No, Namwoo!
Hold on, isnt that your first loves name? Kwon Chae-woo scowled and shot back at Lee-yeon.
What? Are you still harboring resentment over that?
Resentment aside, all that comes to mind is the envy I felt then. It just stirs up needless irritation.
But folks say Nam-woo sounds pleasant.
Which folks are you referring to?
The ones who learned of my pregnancy early.
Kwon Chae-woo let out a sigh, appearing utterly baffled. Yet, seeing her chuckle with her hand over her mouth, he found himself oddly drawn in.
He planted a kiss on her full, alluring cheek and then parted his coat, drawing Lee-yeon close within its warmth.
Before long, they meandered through the seemingly boundless reeds. Lee-yeon twisted away with a look of sheer surprise. As Kwon Chae-woo bent in for another kiss, she swiftly averted her face, dodging it.
Does all this land belong to you, Chae-woo?
Yes.
And everything here is yours?
Yes.
Overwhelmed by the expanse, Lee-yeons eyes fluttered while a firm chin rested gently atop her head.
A soft voice, the subtle shift of an Adams apple, and the breeze toying with her hair locks all radiated a deep, tangible aura.
Beautiful Hwaido Island.
Though it rang like a broken catchphrase amid Hwaido Islands true state, Lee-yeon genuinely cherished those words.
Ill hand it all over to you.
!
One day, the whole island will resound with songs for you. No matter where you stand or wander, until my presence whispers through the wind.
Ill bring that vision to life for you. Kwon Chae-woo vowed, embracing her firmly.
It marked the instant when a mans soothing words forged an immense haven.
***
The harsh winter had finally ended.
Even with the biting chill and relentless blizzards from the decades worst frost alert, Lee-yeon enjoyed the coziest winter she had ever known.
Each time she fretted over the trees enduring the East Sea gales, Kwon Chae-woo scaled the hillside to shield the pine and persimmon trees with straw coverings.
In her free moments, Lee-yeon crafted baby outfits by hand and donated them to the local authorities, while the home slowly brimmed with countless cute infant essentials.
Lets weather this winter strong and ensure the leaves burst forth. Weve survived, she murmured like a devoted plea whenever an opportunity arose.
Right then, Lee-yeon reclined against a tree, absorbing a tender tune, reminiscent of a memorable day from long ago.
The affectionate notes flowing from the mans fingers felt as mild and comforting as the budding spring air.
Amid the thick woods stood gleaming glass lanterns, a fitting table, and artfully placed blooms hidden in tucked-away spots.
This was the baby shower Kwon Chae-woo had thoughtfully arranged for Lee-yeon as her due date neared.
Once the piece concluded, he meticulously polished the fingerboard, body, and bridge using a soft cloth. Watching him, Lee-yeon took in Kwon Chae-woos dark locks, sculpted back, tense shoulders, and the thighs that showed when he knelt.
Sunlight danced through the foliage around her as she abruptly questioned, Chae-woo, dont you find life with me dull?
Im curious what youve overheard.
Kwon Chae-woo grinned, arching a single brow.
I worry Ive reduced you to a mere househusband, Chae-woo.
Sorry to say, but I found this winter deeply satisfying.
Even so, typically
Typically?
I figured youd prefer to be somewhat more
Somewhat more?
Occupied. Back at the Kwons house Lee-yeon hushed her tone.
There, Kwon Chae-woo always bore the aroma of blood. By day, he lounged or stood rigid like a bamboo stalk, and by night, he donned a dark mask, exposing only his chilling gaze.
The individual once gracing the Berlin Philharmonic stage now performed on humble earth like a novice learner. Each glimpse of him that way planted a subtle anxiety in Lee-yeons soul.
Perhaps he missed the riches and prestige from his earlier days. Someday, he might reclaim his old world and depart.
Yet Lee-yeon remained unaware.
She had no idea that this domestic figure had silently emerged as the Kwons impending heir.