brainless. by youmeanyes

7/21/2019 Brainless. by Youmeanyes

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Brainless

youmeanyes

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0

Here.

A small bottle of water tumbled onto the wooden table in front of her, bouncing and shuddering and

rolling to a stop. She listened to the sound of her own breathing, heavy and harsh and desperate,

and blinked away the trail of blood already smeared over her temple and trickling into her eye.

Drink up.You must be thirsty.

She raised her eyes, brow crinkling.

A kind face smiled back at her. The woman was tall, young, with long black hair stylishly tied back.

She wore a simple, elegant suit, perfectly fitted to her form. Tiffanys eyes traced the womans face

and body; she worked out regularly, there were a few sugar grains clinging to her shirt, she had a

slight tan, her muscles showed the definition of someone who grew up swimming; and her

expression held laugh lines but had the form for a serious set.

The woman gazed at her.

Youre shaking, she remarked. Its okay now, Tiffany. The worst is over. Go on, drink some water.

Tiffany looked back at the plastic bottle. It had a few dents. The plastic was soft, and cheap. The

label was bland, simple, with the name of a popular cheap brand. She reached outher hand shook

as she touched the bottle, but her breathing slowed as she twisted off the plastic cap and raised the

water to her lips.

The woman sat down on the other rickety chair across from her. She laid a beige file on the surface

between them, and gave Tiffany another smile.

My name is Yuri, she said. Youre actually a bit older than me, but were all friends here, right? So

pardon my casual nature.

Tiffany didnt say anything. She swallowed the last of the water and lowered the bottle, settling it

gently on the table. She stared.

Now, youve had quite a shock, Tiffany, Yuri said. She opened the file, flipping through the papers.

But its all okay now. Were here to help.

Who?

Yuri looked up at the word. Tiffanys voice was hoarse, afraid. She smiled again.

There are two answers to that question, replied Yuri. Lets not choose one just yet.


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Tiffany was silent again. Her stare bore into Yuris eyes, but the woman seemed unfazed. She still

had that small, quiet, kind smile on her lips. Tiffany gulped, feeling her body stop shaking and her

heart rate slow down.

What happened to your family, Yuri murmured, is terrible. Absolutely terrible. You have my

deepest condolences, Tiffany.

Tiffany blinked. She reached up and wiped away the blood that was persistently running down the

side of her face, and she looked at the thick redness on her fingers. There was a shuffling sound as

Yuri closed the file again and sat up straighter.

Theres a way to fix this, she said quietly, smile gone. Youre here with us now, Tiffany. Theres a

lot going on in this place. And I can tell already that you belong here. The way you checked me out

like that, sussing out so much about me in one look. I bet you know a lot more than you make it

seem. And thats a damn useful talent around here, Tiffany.

I just want to go home, Tiffany whispered, her voice uneven. She couldnt meet Yuris gaze.

Thats not your home anymore, Tiffany. That place where you lived, where you grew up with your

family, thats not home. Theyre all dead now. But here, we can provide you with a new home. We

can be your family now. Wouldnt you like to have a family again, Tiffany?

Tiffany closed her eyes. She clenched her jaw. I justwant to go home, she repeated.

There was no sound for a moment. Then the chair scraped as it was pushed back and Yuri came to

stand right beside Tiffany, resting her hand on her shoulder and leaning down. Listen, Tiffany, she

said softly. You have nothing else. You might as well accept it. This is your home now, and this isyour world. But just remember something for me, Tiffany: not everything is as it seems.

Tiffanys eyes snapped open and she turned to face Yuri. She didnt say anything, but the fear and

confusion showed.

Yuri smiled. Everyone is lying to someone else. In this world, there are two families. Two corners of

a boxing ring. Two sides you can choose. Sometimes, theres a bit of a cross. The lines blur. There are

grey areas, and thatswhere someone can lose their head, very easily. You look confused right now

but youre wary, still attentive. Youre not someone who can easily get lost in mind games, are you?

Tiffanys face was blank. Her breathing slowed until she was only taking shallow breaths. The light

above them flickered slightly, and something tapped against the grimy window.

Yuri held up one hand. The good side. She held up the other. The bad side.

She brought them together and pointed at Tiffany with both index fingers.

And then thereis you.

The corner of her mouth quirked up in a sly little smirk.

And me.


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Tiffanys wide eyes locked onto Yuris for a long time, not blinking or moving.

Its okay, Yuri said. She stood up, on her way back to the other side of the table. You can speak

your mind. Were safe right now.

Youre an undercover cop? Tiffany asked in a thick voice.

Yuri froze, and she spun on her heel to face Tiffany.

She winked.

Tiffany let out a long breath, feeling her shoulders relax. She gulped again, giving Yuri a different

look.

What do you want from me?

Youve just lost your family, Yuri said. Sorry to be so harsh. You have nothing left. Youre smart.

We think we can develop your talents into a very, very useful tool. You could save a lot of people by

helping us.

Tiffany hung her head. The constant reminder of the fact that her whole family was now dead and

she was all alone was not particularly pleasant. She closed her eyes, and was immediately swarmed

with flashes of memories. The screaming of her family members, the smashing of doors and

windows, the shouts, the bloodshe took a deep shuddering breaththe snap of bone, the shots.

The people who killed your family will be interested in you, Yuri continued after a pause. Very

interested.

Tiffany laughed briefly. You think theyll recruit me?

We know they will.

Tiffany raised her head slowly, meeting Yuris eyes. Was that why they killed them? To get me?

Yuri looked away. She half-heartedly shrugged one shoulder. Another tap came at the dark window,

a succession of four rapid knocks.

Its time, Yuri said simply.

She turned back to Tiffany. Her eyes were cold and sharp.

Welcome to your new world, Tiffany.

--

The yo-yo almost smacked against the cement before it spun upwards. Taeyeon clenched her hand

around it tightly, trapping it in place a good distance from the ground it had just been face-to-face

with. Her palm was sweaty. The blue plastic rubbed against her skin. The muscles of her fingers

trembled. She let it drop.

Taeyeon.


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It cracked when it hit the ground. She looked up, eyes blank.

Lets go.

She ripped the string from her finger and let it fall, before stepping forward and following Yuri

through the glass doors and into the polished, sleek office building reception. She gave a polite nodto the secretary at the front who returned it stiffly, and then they were in the elevator.

Taeyeon tucked her hands into the pockets of her jeans and stared at her reflection in the metal.

Yuri glanced at her, and cleared her throat.

Its been two years now, she commented. Two years of good service. I think the boss likes you.

Taeyeon didnt say anything. After a moment she shifted to read the numbers flashing above the

doors.

It was time.

-

1; Four One Nine

Taeyeons shoes crunched on the gravel as she stepped out of the black car. She came face to facewith the small brick building, a sign flashing its name in dark red, standing out in the dim light of late

evening. She took her time to inspect the exterior, eyes tracing the lines of the letters in the sign

that spelled out Smooth in Rouge, and the jagged corners of the rough red door set in the stone wall.

She tilted her head to one side, and blinked.

The door of her car made a click as she shut it behind her, and she strode up to the entrance of the

club.

It rattled as she knocked.

The burly bouncer who opened the door was scruffy and unshaven, his eyes ringed with red, and he

burped smoke before pulling the cigarette from his mouth.

Were not open yet, kid.

Taeyeon regarded him thoroughly, running her gaze from top to bottom, before nonchalantly lifting

her right hand to inspect her nails. The jagged scar that ran lengthwise over her middle finger,

rippling through her knuckle, caught the light and the bouncer almost choked on the smoke of his

cigarette.

Im so sorry, maam, he gasped, immediately stepping to one side and bowing deeply, holding the

door open for her.


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She stepped inside without another glance at him, already inspecting the inside of the club.

Two women were practicing a dance routine on the small stage against one wall, waving their bodies

and swinging their hips while chatting and laughing. The tall bartender was watching them intently,

swirling a dirty rag on the inside of a beer glass with little enthusiasm. Taeyeon grimaced. The bar

was backed by a purple light, setting it aside from the redness that lit the stage and the dimness of

the floor full of small tables. There were unlit candles in small glass bowls, laminated menus, and a

couple of tables had blood-red roses held up in thin vases in their centre. She made note of the

positions of these tables.

The bouncer was straightening up his suit, tightening his tie, when she turned back to him. The

cigarette had been discarded and he had tried to fix his hair. He shot to attention when he realised

she was looking at him.

Take me to Tiffany,she said.

Yes, maam.

The corridor that led to the back office was behind a thin door in the corner next to the bar, and it

was small and stuffy and dark. She coughed as they made their way past a few doors before reaching

one that had a smoky glass window inset and the word Officescratched in gold.

The bouncer raised his hand to knock but she stopped him. With a nod in the direction they came

from, she dismissed him. He hesitated before bowing and disappearing. She waited until she heard

the door at the far end click shut before she turned to the office door.

She leaned closer, almost pressing her ear against the glass. There were some faint noises on theother side; shuffling paper, rustling clothes, and then nothing for a while. She tried to place the

structure of the room. She stared at the glass. Someone inside sighed absently, disheartened. She

pictured a young woman going through the financial reports of the club, which she knew were bleak

because that was how her boss had been able to buy it so easily.

She stood upright again, waited a moment, and then knocked twice on the glass part of the door.

Come in.

She looked directly into the womans eyes when she entered the office.

The woman blinked in surprise. Can I help you?

Taeyeon eyed her for a moment, just staring at her face, before she inspected the nails of her right

hand again.

My name is Taeyeon, she stated, and raised her eyes again.

She watched the womans expression fall at the sight of her scar, and then it was hidden behind

blank politeness. She cocked her head to one side.

You must be Tiffany, she said. You know why Im here.


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Tiffany closed the folder that she had been perusing and turned to store it in the filing cabinet. Yes.

I know.

Taeyeon moved to sit down on the couch against the closest wall. She glanced around the rest of the

room, eyeing the landscape paintings on the walls, and got comfortable. Then she looked at Tiffany

again.

We wont have any problems, she said. I think we can get along just fine. Im sorry to hear of your

family tragedy and the effect it has had on this business. Unfortunately its quite easy for

establishments such as this to fall prey to certain predators.

Tiffany sighed. Whatever, Taeyeon. Lets not waste energy pretending to be friendly.

Taeyeon frowned but didnt say anything.

Tiffany eyed her intently, taking in the youthful face, caramel-coloured hair, Iron Man t-shirt, jeans,

sneakers. Taeyeon let her, keeping her gaze locked on Tiffanys face.

You seem kind of young for this job, Tiffany murmured, meeting her stare. Are they letting kids

take over strip clubs on behalf of criminal organisations now?

Taeyeon smirked. Im a few months older than you, and Im only following orders from my boss.

And if were going by appearances, I never would have guessed an elegant, beautiful young lady

such as you would become the owner of a strip club.

They stared at each other in silence for a long time. Eventually Tiffany looked away and stood up,

moving to stand in front of the desk.

One thing, she said, leaning back against the desk and crossing her arms sternly. None of these

girls are going to be prostitutes. I told that to your boss when we made the deal. Dont you forget it.

Taeyeon smiled kindly. Well get along just fine, Tiffany.

-

Taeyeon tapped at the keys of the laptop unenthusiastically. She was bored. After two hours of

intent concentration, she had produced 50 templates and began distribution. She tweaked some

content to make them a little more appealing or specific to the group of marks, and clicked send.

And then she pulled up another one, and did it all again. E-mails were whizzing out from her location

towards people all over the world, people with money and morals and emotions that she could toy

with and profit from. Who wouldnt feel sympathetic for the poor young woman whowas trying to

escape the corrupting clutches of our supreme leader and needed to be saved fromthe life of

poverty and despair with a simple loan of only a few thousand dollars to pay the fare to get the

almighty and glorious US of A.

After sending another batch, she clicked over to the inbox to check for any replies. Sometimes they

bit the line quick, sometimes they thought about it for a while because it was big decision after all,

and sometimes they replied with a cute lecture about scamming innocent people instead of getting

a real job.


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Taeyeon smirked. She reached for the cup of coffee on the desk beside her laptop, and took a sip as

she skimmed through an email. It was cold already, the coffee, and a bitter chill that she savoured.

Sometimes the emails threatened to report her to the police but she knew two-thirds of people like

that didnt even know who to contact anyway. There was a special organisation dedicated to

tracking and reporting scammers but everyone just tapped delete on those funny little scam

attempts and went on with their lives, and Taeyeon got another few thousand in her pocket after

some well-practiced deceit on those more gullible.

When she first got into this game, sending lies through e-mail, she didnt think it would work at all.

She knew some people managed to make good money off it but she thought they just got lucky.

How could people fall for it? It was all so obviously shady, and yet on they went and walked right

into it thinking they were doing the good thing.

Taeyeon shook her head, and deleted a few of the lectures. She made a mental note of how many

she got and which batch they were in response to; while two-thirds of them would never report her,

she had to keep track of how many there were in the other third.

The door rattled as it opened and she looked up as Tiffany dragged herself inside. Taeyeon checked

her watch; it was almost four in the morning. Tiffany looked exhausted and her expression did not

improve when she saw Taeyeon sitting at her desk, on her chair, using her laptop.

What are you doing? she asked.

She didnt sound upset, really, just tired. She closed her eyes for a moment before taking slow steps

and slumping down in the chair in front of the desk, letting out a sigh.

Just some extra little tasks, Taeyeon said. She pushed her cup towards Tiffany. Want some coffee?

Its cold.

Tiffany squinted at her. Is that supposed to be appealing to me? Cold coffee is gross.

Taeyeon shrugged, and pulled her cup back. Okay then. Busy night?

Tiffany sighed again. Arent you supposed to be doing something? Like, more helpful and club-

related? What do you even do, anyway?

I follow orders from my boss, Taeyeon said simply.

Tiffany stared at her. Well, youve been doing that for two weeks already and I see no difference in

the state of this place.

Taeyeon raised an eyebrow. Good, there shouldnt be anynoticeable change. This place is useful to

us in the state that it was when we got it. If you want to make changes using our budget, like

improving the dcor or whatever, I can pass it along to the boss. But it would need his approval.

Tiffany considered it for a moment, then waved her hand dismissively and closed her eyes again.

Taeyeon figured that meant she would think about it later, and went back to typing on the laptop.

After a few minutes of relative quiet as she tweaked and sent and received and made notes on a

piece of paper, Tiffany opened her eyes again.


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What are you doing on my laptop?

She sounded more awake.

Taeyeon logged out of the e-mail account, closed the browser, turned off the laptop, and tucked

away the paper full of treasures before she responded with a smile. Im following orders from myboss, of course.

-

2; Code

Tiffany slouched in the chair. The room was cold, and overly bright, with light blue stone walls and

one painted door. She let out a lengthy sigh and crossed her arms over her chest. Her arms were

most sensitive to the cold, because she was still wearing the sleeveless dress from the club. It was

the middle of the night, and she was not happy.

The door opened and Yuri walked in, eyes carefully trained on an open folder in her hand, and she

didnt look at Tiffany until the door snapped shut behind her. Then she smiled.

Well, well, she said coyly, you know if you want to talk to me, you can just call. No need for all

this effort of getting arrested for, she glanced at the writing in the folder, internet fraud. She

raised her eyebrows. Thats new.

Tiffany grunted, unamused.

Yuri seated herself across from Tiffany, comfortable in her surroundings, seemingly unperturbed by

the chill temperature. The folder lay open before her, and Tiffany saw a small picture of herself

along with some print-outs of e-mails. She closed her eyes briefly, cursing Taeyeon.

Okay look, I can explain, she said, fixing an earnest stare onYuris face. I didnt do it.

Yuri laughed. Hey dont worry, Tiffany. Youre working for us. This is a good sign! Youre becoming

part of their organisation.

Silence followed her statement. Her smile dropped and she looked unsure.

That is what this means, isnt it? she asked.

Tiffany sighed again. She ran a hand through her hair, and she shifted in her seat. Here and now she

was presented with options; she could pretend that initiating these scams was part of some

acceptance with the organisation Yuri was targeting, or she could admit Taeyeon was framing her for

it on the orders of the big boss. Being framed most likely meant that the organisation knew she was

reporting to the police. Telling Yuri she really didnt do it would mean she was telling her that she

had no cover, and the game was up. Pretending she did it would send her back to the mercy of

Taeyeon and her boss.


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Not really an enticing set of options.

Taeyeon didnt seem so bad. A little messed up, all too willing to follow her orders, possibly nice but

maybe not very sincere. After all, she was polite enough to Tiffany but she felt nothing about

framing her, simply because she was ordered to. She offered to share her coffee but it was bitter

and cold. Tiffany always saw her that way.

As for the big boss, this was him giving her a test, perhaps. If she took the fall for this, then she

would seem like less of a threat. Surely he knew she was working for the cops, but if she didnt turn

Taeyeon in for this then he would think she wasnt totally on the wrong side. And she may be

allowed to live another day, so to speak.

So she gulped, and looked at Yuri again. Yeah, okay, it was me. But can you please cut back on the

plain-clothes detectives flashing their badges in my club and pounding on my office door? Its a bad

look, you know. Guys go there to watch women take off their clothes.

Yuri laughed again, worry gone. Whatever. You know this is how we do it. So listen, its clear to us

already that the evidence we have on you isnt concrete, so if this were to go to trial it would most

likely be a waste of time. Well set you loose, but well have to tail you. Ongoing investigation, and all

that.

Well, hopefully I wont give you enough cause to get a warrant for my laptop, right? Tiffany said

dryly. She was calmer now, reassured by Yuris attitude. She was almost one of them, and almost

one of the others.

Yuri shrugged. We do have the best computer forensics squad in the country.

Right. Am I free to go?

Sure, sure. We cant keep you here. Need a ride?

Tiffany grimaced. Not from you and not from any other cop. She paused. Ill call a friend to pick

me up.

Yuri nodded. She flicked through a few pages to the back of the folder. Would that friend be

Taeyeon, by any chance? How are you getting along with her?

Tiffany squirmed uncomfortably. Shes alright. Look, Id really like to go. Can we leave thequestioning for some other time? Give me a call or something.

Yuri watched her for a moment, thoughts indiscernible, before smiling nonchalantly again and

getting up to leave. Sure, she said again. Follow me so you can make that call somewhere less

unpleasant.

-

Taeyeon didnt seem surprised to get a call from Tiffany, and she arrived at the police station quickly.

She must have already known where Tiffany had gone. They sat in the parking lot of the station for a

while in silence after Tiffany got in.


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Tiffany couldnt figure out what Taeyeon was feeling. She must have guessedthat Tiffany had taken

the blame for the scams because otherwise she wouldnt be in the car, but Taeyeons face was blank

and she was quiet.

The wind outside started howling, signalling a pre-dawn storm in the darkness, and Taeyeon started

the engine of the car. Then she sat unmoving again for a moment before turning to Tiffany.

My boss isnt happy with the way you treat some of your customers, she said.

Tiffany blinked. What?

Thats why he did this, Taeyeon continued. He wants you to provide some allowances for certain

VIPs, and he wants you to know that you cant take us lightly.

Who said I was taking you lightly? And what kind of allowances are we talking about? I already said

Not that, Taeyeon interrupted. She frowned. Dont worry about that. He means drugs. Give them

drugs. The ones that sit at the tables with the roses and I talk to them sometimes. Theyre important

business partners for the organisation.

And he wants me to give them drugs? Tiffany asked. And he made you frame me forthis other

stuff so that I dont disobey him? Why?

Why the drugs or why the arrest?

They stared at each other for a long time. Tiffany wanted to ask if the boss actually knew about her

duplicity, but she was afraid to mention it. If Taeyeon wasnt going to talk about it, it was better that

Tiffany didnt either.

You know what, never mind, she said eventually. I dont care. Ill do it, its fine. Lets just get out

of here.

Taeyeon didnt say anything. She manoeuvred the car onto the street.

A light drizzle of rain started, the thin veil of water hitting the windshield of the car softly but enough

to make Taeyeon put the wipers on at the lowest setting. They made their way through the empty,

orange-lit streets in silence. It was tense. Tiffany was getting nervous.

Do you do everything your boss tells you to?

Taeyeon glanced at her, eyes glinting in the light from outside. She didnt answer at first, and then

she said, Why are you so nervous?

Tiffany looked away, deliberately staring at the storefronts they drove past. Im not nervous.

And Im not an idiot, Taeyeon said. She didnt go further.

In a way, it could have been an answer to Tiffanys first question, too. She looked at Taeyeon again,

wondering. Of course there was room for more under the exterior she was shown; not just a lackey


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following orders but someone with a dangerous darkness inside. Like cold, bitter coffee. Tiffany

frowned; she needed to stop comparing Taeyeon to that coffee.

Do you have any hobbies? she asked, feeling her anxiety ebb away purely because Taeyeon hadnt

tried to kill her yet. What do you do for fun?

Taeyeon slowed the car to a halt at a red light, and frowned at her. What?

Well sometimes you seem just like a normal person, Tiffany said, still looking at her. Until I see

you doing something illegal or being kind of scary. So surely you do some normal stuff too, right?

Taeyeon blinked at her. Crime is pretty normal.

Tiffany rolled her eyes, turning to face forward. Okay, never mind. Just making conversation.

They sat without speaking again, and drove on when the light changed.

Music was pumping a heartbeat for the club when they arrived and the bouncers grinded out their

cigarettes at the sight of the familiar car. They nodded respectfully at Tiffany and didnt hesitate

before doing the same for Taeyeon as she followed. Inside, it smelled of people and alcohol, and a

few cigarettes that made trails of smoke through the flashing red and gold lights.

On the way to her office, with Taeyeon tight on her heels, Tiffany took notice of those special tables

marked with red roses. Tonight there were two of them occupied. One seemed like a businessman,

the other a thug. She held back a sigh, and jumped when she felt a hand on her back.

Youre good at not asking questions, Taeyeon said into her ear, not bothering to lower her voice

under the loud music. And sometimes that gets you all the answers.

Tiffany stopped, trying to seem casual as she turned to Taeyeon and leaned closer. Maybe someone

would think she was getting too intimate with Taeyeon, and maybe it would seem like they were

having a conversation in a noisy place.

Taeyeon glanced around, furtive for the first time since Tiffany met her. She followed Taeyeons line

of sight and saw the men at the rose tables both keeping an eye on them.

Not allowed to get close to me? asked Tiffany, smiling at Taeyeon. Would your boss disapprove? I

find you so interesting though. A little creepy maybe, but interesting.

Thanks, Taeyeon muttered. He knows.

He knows I find you interesting?

Taeyeon moved closer and tilted her head, breath brushing over the line of Tiffanys jaw as she said,

He knows about you and Yuri.

Tiffany froze, the blood draining from her face. She pulled back slightly to look at Taeyeon, whose

expression was empty.

After a moment, Tiffany glanced at the rose tables again; only the thug-looking man was stillwatching them as he took a sip from his drink.


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Tiffany rested her arms on Taeyeons shouldersand leaned closer again, but she found she couldnt

speak. She didnt know what to say or what to do. She felt like asking questions, finding out more

but she couldnt.

Are you afraid? Taeyeon asked. She didnt move to return Tiffanys embrace, but rested their

cheeks together.

Suddenly Tiffany felt angry. She tightened her grip on Taeyeon, making them sway slightly. Do you

want me to be? You little freak.

Taeyeon didnt respond. Tiffany closed her eyes, taking a moment to wish that everything would be

gone when she opened them. Taeyeons body was warm against hers as they got closer in the dark

corner of the club, and she wondered if she could get Taeyeon in trouble by making it look like they

were kissing.

I have to go meet with the men at the rose tables, Taeyeon said. Youre good at not asking

questions.

Have any more answers for me? Tiffany replied, keeping Taeyeon from moving.

When my boss wants you to know you shouldnt take us lightly, theres a reason, Taeyeon

murmured. We hurt people, and we make them cry, we make them beg, whether theyre begging

for their lives or their deaths. We break. We shatter. We make people bleed what they owe us.

Taeyeon pulled away, stepping back and detaching herself from Tiffany. In the fluctuating red and

gold lighting that pooled the club, Taeyeons face was hard to decipher and her eyes changed with

the things they reflected. But she smiled, a slight and secretive smile, before turning anddisappearing into the belly of the club.

Tiffany felt cold.

-

3; Wicked

Tiffany slammed the car door and smacked Taeyeons shoulder. Go!

The tyres screeched with the friction of their movement, and the car shot away. Taeyeons steering

swerved slightly in the first few metres before settling, and she dodged the thin traffic with ease

until they were ten blocks away. She slowed down on a long stretch of road and melded into the

more populated lines of cars.

They sat at the red light, behind three cars and in front of twenty more, as Tiffany finally caught her

breath. She loosened her grip on the backpack in her lap and let it slide to rest at her feet. Then the

grin took over her face.

I cannot believe I just did that, she said. She laughed. I cant believe it!


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Taeyeon glanced at her, smiling slightly. Howd it feel?

Fucking amazing! Tiffany slapped her palms on the dashboard in front of them. Amazing!

Good, Taeyeon murmured. She reached out and flicked on the radio, turning the volume down a

bit so that it wasnt deafening, and she watched as Tiffany started dancing along and laughing.

It went well. Tiffany had gone in, settled, chatted, flirted a little, and then she grabbed the bag and

ran. This was all exactly as it was meant to be. She didnt have to know what was in the bag, she

didnt have to know who she just stole it from, and she didnt have to know the consequences of her

actions. She did it. Maybe she thought it wasnt anything important, because after all why would an

organised criminal leave something important in a backpack under the table of three low-level thugs

in a bar? So maybe she figured it wasnt a big deal to grab it and run. Maybe she even thought of it

as a game, a light and playful thing.

It wasnt.

Because Tiffany just stole a bag full of medium-grade heroin from a gang reputed for gruesome

retaliation.

And Taeyeon was going to sell it through her newly formed independent network of dealers while

keeping some as a supply for the men at the rose tables.

But she didnt have to know that. She did it anyway. It was the fault of carelessness.

Hey are you hungry? Tiffany asked suddenly, still smiling, breathless. Lets go get some food.

Taeyeon didnt look in her direction, keeping her eyes on the road for a moment. Then she glanced

at her watch; she needed to report to her boss in thirty minutes. She looked up in time to see the

light change. The car was set into motion while she checked the rear-view mirror.

Oh come on, just have dinner with me, Tiffany said, reaching out to poke Taeyeons shoulder.

Surely you dont just live off coffee?

Taeyeon shrugged. I like coffee.

Then have coffee with me, Tiffany pressed. She moved her hand over Taeyeons shoulder. Come

on, I just wanna hang out.

I need to see my boss soon. Taeyeon shrugged away Tiffanys hand. Ill drop you off at the club.

Tiffany sighed. She ran a hand through her hair and settled back in her seat. Whatever.

The ride was quiet after Tiffany turned off the radio. Taeyeon knew she was disappointed. It

surprised her that Tiffany seemed to want to get to know her.

Not only was Taeyeon a weird young woman who worked for a criminal organisation, but Tiffany

was working for the police in an effort to deconstruct said organisation. Why did she want to be

friends? Surely she didnt know the secrets behind Yuris involvement in the organisation. And she


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certainly didnt know what was going on in Taeyeons head. Yet she seemed to consider it a good

idea to forge a connection with Taeyeon, and she was either playing or she was foolish.

Taeyeon blinked.

The grey area could be hard to navigate sometimes.

Do you smoke? asked Tiffany suddenly.

Taeyeon glanced at her. They were nearing their destination. No. Why?

It just seems like everyone else does, Tiffany answered, looking out the window. I just found it

odd that I never saw you smoke, when the others in your line of work practically breathe tobacco.

Taeyeon tapped her fingers on the steering wheel briefly. I quit a while ago.

Tiffany didnt question her further, and when they reached the club she got out of the car without a

second glance. Taeyeon watched her walk. She checked her watch. She went to see her boss.

-

Now, regarding your next meeting

Taeyeon made sure not to look at Yuri. The room was dark, with only the desk lamp on to illuminate

them. Their boss sat in his chair, and he didnt blink.

Hes an important man. Make sure to get a good deal out of the negotiations. He likes to think he

has the upper hand. Remind him of the truth if needed.

Yuri nodded, and Taeyeon blinked. Their boss flicked his gaze away for a moment before he looked

at Taeyeon.

At the end of the month, Tiffany will no longer be necessary. Youve done a good job, were almost

at our first goal, and soon the next stage of our plan can begin. Ill let you take over theclub by

yourself.

Taeyeon didnt hesitate to nod.

Their boss grimaced. I know what youve been up to, Taeyeon. This is your last chance. And if you

move to defy me, you will all be dead.

No one said anything else for a long time. Their boss looked at Yuri in a way that made them both

certain that he knew. There was no real deception after all, and they were all a single step away

from oblivion.

Taeyeon wasnt scared. She had known that if he didnt already know, he would find out, and shed

been ready to die because of the threat she posed. He had big plans, and he was ruthless in trying to

achieve them. Any movement from her in the direction she was poised to pursue would go one of

two ways; freedom or death.


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He let them leave his office, and they walked through icy darkness towards Taeyeons car in the

parking lot.

Everyone underestimated Taeyeon. She made sure of it. She was just a girl, she was just a lackey,

and she did exactly as she was told without a care in the world. Her heartlessness seemed strange

and it made it easier to keep people away from her. Even better. The best thing for her life was for

people to think that she had no heart and no mind of her own.

So she smiled. Even though the boss knew she had been branching out into her own operation, he

still thought he could control her.

He was wrong.

What are you going to do about Tiffany? asked Yuri as they reached the car. Her breath made a

trail of whiteness in the air. Will you kill her?

Taeyeon looked at Yuri over the roof of the car. She will no longer be necessary, he said. After

everything she has been involved in, she must die.

You know shes important to my case, said Yuri. Youve never had a problem with my deception

as a police officer, and you seem to have no concern about Tiffany working for me. Could you maybe

not kill her and give us a chance to do what were here to do?

Just because I never had a problem with your attempt to convict my boss doesnt mean I want to

join you. Taeyeon leaned forward, resting her arms on thecar. Im not stupid.

Yuri stared at her for a long time. There was absolutely nothing going on this night; no traffic in the

streets, no planes overhead. There werent even lights on in the buildings around them. So when

Yuri watched Taeyeon, it was as if she was confronting a dead world.

What are you planning? breathed Yuri. He said he knows what youve been up to, and so do I.

Youve been building your own little business. Why?You work for one of the biggest guys around,

why are you doing something on the side? Are you going to branch out and become a competitor?

Surely you realize thats suicide.

Taeyeon didnt say anything at first. Then she shrugged, and broke their eye contact. She unlocked

her car. Just making some extra cash.Do you need a ride?

No, thanks, Yuri said immediately. She was frowningnow. Youre really weird, you know that?

Taeyeon paused with her hand on the door handle. She shrugged again.

Will Tiffany be safe?

Taeyeon smiled at Yuri. Tiffanys a little weird, too.

-


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4; Fade

Tiffany was used to seeing Taeyeon in her office these days. Sometimes she would return there

during the course of the clubs business hours, after making her rounds to check on staff and greet

some of the regulars, looking to relax and get the weight off her feet for a while. It was hard work to

smile non-stop as if her face had no other function, even when the people she talked to were

obnoxious or vulgar, or just not as interesting as they thought they were. But they were her

customers and her employees, and she cared about doing her job well and taking good care of her

business even though it was mostly in the hands of a criminal organisation.

Being owned by gangsters hadnt made a huge differenceyet. Every now and then the people at the

rose tables would get little coloured bags beside their drinks, and it made them happy and relaxed,

which Tiffany appreciated. Most of them were the more mature, sleek business types, but there

were a few of the rougher thugs that made her feel uncomfortable with the way they eyed her

employees, so any distraction was good even if it was a bag of drugs.

Taeyeon never told her what was in those little bags and she never let Tiffany go near them. It was

obvious that they held different things at times; the shape of the bag showed if it held powder or

pills, so Tiffany guessed sometimes they were ecstasy pills. All she knew was that despite how useful

it was to satisfy the men at the rose tables, she would kill Taeyeon if some idiot thug overdosed in

her club.

Long night? Taeyeon asked, briefly looking up from the screen of the laptop on the desk in front of

her. She hadnt used Tiffanys laptop since Tiffany was arrested, choosing instead to bring her own.

Tiffany threw herself down on the couch against the wall, face first, and let out a huff that was

absorbed by a cushion. Yes. Im so tired.

Taeyeon glanced at the time. They were only halfway through the long night. She reached for her

coffee and took a sip, taking the opportunity to run her gaze over Tiffany.

Any trouble?

Tiffany turned her head to look in Taeyeons direction. Not yet, and Id like to keep it that way.

Taeyeon smiled slightly. Dont worry. No men at the rose tables tonight.

Tiffany returned the smile easily. Good.

They watched each other for a while, saying nothing. Eventually Taeyeon snapped her laptop shut

and stood. Tiffany sat up and kept her eyes on Taeyeon as she stepped over to the couch. After a

moment, she sat next to her and smiled properly.

Whens the last time you talked to Yuri?

Tiffany frowned. What?

My boss thinks Yuri is a nice little pet detective to keep in his pocket. She acts like one of us,

probably more than most of us do. I certainly never really felt like I fit in, but shes right at home

here.


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So? Tiffany shifted uncomfortable. Why should I care?

Shell be here tomorrow night, said Taeyeon, glancing at her watch again, no longer smiling. We

need to meet with someone.

At a rose table?

Yes. But no drugs; at least, not that I know of. He may need some sweetening up. Anyway, since

Yuri will be here, I think the three of us should have a little talk. You see, we all know about each

other and whats really going on here, and its time for us to be honest with each other.

Tiffany searched Taeyeons face in an effort to get an idea of what she was thinking, but Taeyeon

was good at being blank.

Honest with each other, Tiffany echoed. But not with your boss?

Taeyeon nodded. Exactly.

Tiffany stared at her. And this is a good thing? Or bad? How should I be feeling about your

suggestion to leave your boss uninformed of whatever well be discussing?

He knows what we know so far, Taeyeon said. He doesnt need to know what well talk about. I

doubt hed want to know, anyway.

Tiffany turned to better face Taeyeon, looking grim. Okay, whats going on? What willwe be talking

about that your boss wont like? I dont want to end up dead, Taeyeon. I like to think Ive got a long

life ahead of me with a chance of getting out of this hole Im in and doing something better for

myself without big criminal organisations owning me.

Dont worry about my boss, Taeyeon said firmly. Were just going to have alittle chat.

Im serious, said Tiffany, reaching out to rest her arms on Taeyeons shoulders. She tilted her head

to one side. What are you looking to get out of our little chat?

Taeyeon seemed surprised at Tiffanys move, but decided not to comment on it. Its just a casual

thing. Small talk.

Hmm. Tiffany slipped a hand along the back of Taeyeons neckunder the fall of her hair and her

fingers went beneath Taeyeons t-shirt, stroking the soft skin over the bumps of her spine. Yourenot as simple as you seemed, are you? Youre not just following orders all the time.

Taeyeon just watched her quietly.

What are you planning? Tiffany whispered, leaning closer. You wanna do something dangerous?

Do you really think its a good idea to get so close to me? Taeyeon replied. A smile tugged at her

lips. Dont you think its a bit stupid to get involved with me? Especially if Im planning something so

dangerous.

Tiffany winked. Especially.


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She kissed Taeyeon slowly, as if to emphasize a point. And because she enjoyed it, too.

-

Taeyeon knew she looked a bit ruffled when she sat down at the table with the rose. She ran a hand

over her hair, tucked it behind her ears, and swiftly wiped her mouth on the back of her hand just incase. She checked her watch and glanced at the door, which was visible from her side of the table;

she had chosen it that way deliberately. All around her, the club went on with a life of its own. She

fiddled with the drink coasters, and regulated her breathing.

Whatever was between her and Tiffany had taken a drastic turn after that kiss the night before.

Tiffany didnt seem to have many concerns about the lackof wisdom in having any kind of

relationship with Taeyeon, which almost didnt surprise Taeyeon. After all, Tiffany was weird just like

Taeyeon was weird, so maybe neither of them was as brainless as they seemed. Yet Taeyeon didnt

really know why Tiffany was so drawn to her, or why she was starting to feel the same. She didnt

expect to like that first kiss as much as she did, though she had assumed it would be good. It wasaddictive. Tiffany herself was becoming addictive to Taeyeon. It was something about her

determination, quiet intelligence, and unforgiving balance between optimism and realism; and her

little quirk of being recklessly interested in Taeyeons weirdness.

Yuri arrived first, slithering through the crowds of dancers and drinkers as smoothly as a shark in the

depths of the ocean. She was already smiling as she sat down across from Taeyeon at the table.

Good evening, she said brightly. Lovely night, dont you think?

Taeyeon raised an eyebrow, her contemplations about Tiffany banished from her mind. Why are

you so cheerful?

Just had a good day at work, Yuri said, leaning back in her chair. Made some progress with a

certain pet project of mine.

Oh, said Taeyeon, looking away. Well, happy days, then.

Yuri scanned the club. WheresTiffany?

Taeyeon looked at Yuri again. In her office. Do you want a drink before our client arrives?

Not now. Maybe Ill order something later.

Taeyeon nodded, and they lapsed into silence. She watched Yuri out of the corner of her eye as she

examined their surroundings.

You and I should join her in her office after our meeting, said Taeyeon. Have a little chat.

Yuri met her gaze. Really? Alright then, lets do that.

When their client arrived, they spent time on pleasantries. He was visiting from out of town so they

asked him if he had seen the tourist attractions, what he thought of the local offerings, and the way

he leered at a passing waitress was more than enough of an answer. By the time they got down to


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business, Taeyeon was thoroughly fed up and certain he was going to try to milk them for all he

could get in this deal.

There was one part of the deal that I think could use something a bit more special, he said, and

gulped down the rest of his scotch.

Taeyeon tensed, resisting the urge to roll her eyes. Instead she turned her head away slightly to

survey the area around them, leaving Yuri to remain diplomatic.

Well, Im sure you havesome interesting thoughts about that, said Yuri, flashing him a smile.

It was nice of you to offer me some refreshment, he continued, tapping his glass. And snacks, his

tooth glinted as he grinned, but Im not hungry for that kind of snack.

Taeyeon noticed Tiffany making her way around the club, tapping staff members on the shoulder

and having a friendly talk with them, shaking hands with some people that looked perfectly at home

here. Despite having inherited the ownership of the business, she was clearly more invested in it

than Taeyeon expected when she first met her. She wondered if it would make it hard for Tiffany to

leave it, and if she really cared if Tiffany couldnt abandon it.

This is a nice place, the man remarked, eyeing some parts of it more than others.

Taeyeon tapped her fingers on the table and turned to look at him. Is our deal not good enough for

you? She knew what game he was about to play and she had no patience for it.

He paled instantly when he noticed her expression. No, certainly its a good deal, Im honoured to

receive such terms from someone with the calibre your boss has.

Then whats your problem? she snapped.

Yuri gave her a glance, obviously wondering if Taeyeons loss of temper was too risky.

He laughed, only half as nervous as he should have been. Nothing, nothing. Just thought you might

be able to help me enjoy this town a little more, thats all.

Accept the terms youve been offered or youll be dragged out of this town like a bag of manure,

Taeyeon said, not blinking as she drilled into him. I dont have time to waste on what you want, and

neither will my boss.

He sat back, stunned. After a while he said, Wow. Alright. Fine. Obviously I wont let this

opportunity pass me by. You have a deal. No need to be such a bitch about it.

He left, shaking his head, and Taeyeon rolled her eyes. She tapped the table again, looking again at

the spot where she had last seen Tiffany, but Tiffany was gone. She sighed.

Whats wrong with you? Yuri asked. You just completely lost it on that guy. This is so unlike you.

Tiffany said she doesnt want her employees to be prostitutes, Taeyeon answered.

So? You know we never would have let it go that far. You didnt have to get so angry with him.


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Taeyeon shrugged, and stood up. Come on. Lets go talk with Tiffany.

She was getting impatient. It was almost time to do what she had been planning for so long now.

Since the moment she was employed by her boss she kept her eyes on what went on around her and

began to from a dream and from that she chiselled a strategy. She never expected Tiffany, though.

Never expected to be here at this club and to meet someone like Tiffany, and certainly never

expected to be doing whatever they were doing together.

It was pretty stupid. She didnt even know why they were doing it and that should have been

warning enough. For years now Taeyeon had been quietly biding her time while she formulated

plans, now Tiffany jumped in and scattered her thoughts. She was still on track, and she intended to

continue down the path in front of her, but now her steps were more like skips because she was

stumbling and looking away in a daze.

Taeyeon snapped back to reality, shaking herself from her contemplation. They were almost at

Tiffanys office, Yuri right behind her.

She knew what she had to do. Now she just had to do it.

5;Finally

The fact that Taeyeons boss thought he knew what was going on made no difference in the end

when it became clear that he did not know nearly as much as he thought he did.

Yuri was a cop at first, and then an undercover cop, and then she seemed to settle into her double

life entirely too comfortably. He let her stay, because she had her uses and he saw something of

himself in her at times. She wasnt quite his protg, and she could never be until she finally ditched

the police, but she had a way of playing this particular game that he couldnt help but admire.

Then there was Taeyeon. She was a little weird. She followed his orders very well, to the letter,

never stepping a foot out of line, but also never taking the initiative. She wouldnt do anything

unless he told her to. He found it useful in some ways because she was a sharp tool to have totalcontrol over, but she would never rise much higher in the ranks of her community if she retained the

subservient mind-set.

Tiffany was a pawn, and he wanted to have her so that she could be carved into a queen. Not for

himself, but for later. He wanted to take her and turn her into something even better and stronger

than himself, so that she could take his organisation to new heights. The moment he met her face-

to-face, he knew her reputation was truer than true. She was intelligent, determined, quick-witted,

but bored with her life and entirely willing to take risks, especially after the sudden death of her

family. He knew she could be trained to use that mixed bag of powers for exactly what he wanted

her to become.


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And that was what he thought he knew. He thought that was how it was, the whole scene.

He underestimated them all a little too much.

What he didnt know was that all those traits he had identified in his toys were precisely the traits

that led to them doing exactly what they were doing now: arguing with each other in the closedoffice of Tiffanys club.

Yuri didnt like Taeyeons plan, and Tiffany liked it a little too much.

Why would I want to leave everything I have here? said Yuri, crossing her arms, seeping with anger.

Ive made a life for myself which I rather enjoy. Im getting the best of both worlds in this grey area

of mine.

You cant be serious, said Tiffany disbelievingly. Youre crazier than I thought you were, Yuri.

Yuri shrugged. So? Look, Im flattered you think Id join you, but Id rather stay.

The boss doesnt like you quite so much anymore, Taeyeon replied, eyes cold. Hes let you play

your game for long enough that you both know exactly whats happening, but now youre still

playing and he wants you to get serious.

I am serious, Yuri said, frowning. Im serious about doing exactly what Imdoing now.

Well Id rather get the hell out of here, Tiffany contributed. Im sick of being stuck between a rock

and a hard place. The cops and the gangsters all want me to do their bidding, this place needs me to

stay afloat; Im over it. I just wantto be free. I have nothing and no-one left for me here.

Taeyeon looked at her. So youll come with me?

Tiffany looked back. Yes.

Excuse me, interrupted Yuri, I hate to stop your moment of intimacy but what the hell is going on?

Are you two reallyjust going to ditch everything and run?

We are. Taeyeon absently ran a finger over the scar on her hand. This organisation was my only

family for a long time, since the moment they gave me this scar as my identity, and its time for me

to move out of my parents house, so to speak. I want to have my own life now, and it would have to

be away from here.

Tiffany stepped closer and wrapped an arm around Taeyeons waist. She kissed her lightly on the

cheek.

Taeyeon still didnt know what to feel about Tiffany. She was very confused, kind of happy, and

rather scared. She invited Tiffany to come with her, anyway, so now that was going to happen.

You two really are weird, Yuri said, and she shook her head but she smiled. And I wish you luck in

your future, because the boss is not going to be willing to let you go that easy.

He wont be a problem for me. Its you who should be worried.Hell get tired of you.


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Taeyeon and Yuri eyed each other for a long time, communicating something deeper than what they

showed on the surface. They had both been part of this same family for a long time, and both were

genuinely convinced the other would not succeed on their different paths.

Yuri smiled, and shook her head.

That was the last time they saw each other.

-

Because Taeyeon never liked to do important things half-assed, she planned to make her exit a big

one. It was going to be spectacular, so that she could leave a message to her boss. She wasnt a

lackey, she wasnt a pushover, she wasnt just a weird kid; she was Taeyeon.

And she had Tiffany.

She knew it would piss him off when he found out that Tiffany went with her. The old man had madeit clear that he wanted Tiffany to join his organisation very much, and so it was an easily identifiable

weak spot. Take Tiffany, and she would break him just a little more.

That wasnt her main motivation when she asked Tiffany to join her, and she knew it. It was

something she only considered later, as she lay beside Tiffany in the darkness of Tiffanys bedroom.

Sounds of the city brushed past the curtained windows and drove her thoughts. So far she had

pondered her feelings for Tiffany, the strategic points of having Tiffany with her, and now it was time

for suspicion to settle in. It was only right.

Tiffany was pursuing Taeyeonor maybe she already caught herand at first it seemed like she was

making a silly and wild decision, but now that it was the night before their departure Taeyeon finally

took the time to entertain the possibility that Tiffany was scheming.

In exactly the way Taeyeon was underestimated as a thoughtless lackey, perhaps Taeyeon was

underestimating Tiffany as a foolish daredevil.

She made a list of things that had been too easy. Tiffany kissed her first, initiated affectionate

embraces and touches, but never said words like love, commitment or any of that junk. She obeyed

when Taeyeon suggested they should go to Tiffanys apartment, gladly accepted it when Taeyeon

made a move, and didnt try to cuddle when Taeyeon made it clear she didnt want to.So how was

this possible? It was the only kind of arrangement Taeyeon would ever allow in her life, and it all

came together far too smoothly.

Taeyeon turned her head. She could barely make out the outline of Tiffanys body beside her, curled

up and facing away from her.

Disregarding the strategic double-guessing for a moment, she decided to sort out the whole feelings

thing.

Suffice it say, she wasnt one for emotional intimacy. But as it turned out, this didnt do much to

blunt her emotions about others, and triggered by Tiffany were certain emotions that she was afraid

of. They were the kind of emotions that distracted her, made her lose control, and could very well be


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used to make her the thoughtless lackey she pretended to be. And then were would she be? So she

had to be incredibly certain that Tiffany was not just manipulating her.

But Taeyeon did not know how to do that.

She sighed, and looked at the ceiling again.

In the morning, she would begin to execute her plan, and Tiffany would be right beside her as they

escaped the trap they were both in.

And she was inclined to go with it, just like that, losing regard of the doubts and emotions.

Tiffany stirred. She rolled onto her back, took a deep breath, and then rolled onto her side to face

Taeyeon. Her eyes were only half open, her face almost indiscernible in the darkness.

Tae? her voice held the thick edge of sleep, and the deep openness of something else altogether.

Youre awake?

Taeyeon didnt answer. She stared at Tiffany.

Tiffany moved again, wiping an eye and taking another breath. You okay?

Tell me why I should trust you. The words came very matter-of-factly; just a casual conversation,

but the implications were daunting.

Tiffany took a few moments as if she was still waking up. She thought about what to say. Not only

about whether she should lie, but also about what the truth was. Did she trust Taeyeon? She was

surprised to find herself thinking that she did. Why? God only knew.

Because I trust you.

Taeyeon couldnt hold back her frown. Whats that supposed to mean? What do you trust me to

do?

I trust you, Tiffany continued, to take control of your own life and get out of here. And I trust you

to want me to join you, so that I can take control of my own life, too.

Taeyeon sighed, long and heavy and full of the unspoken words she couldnt grab hold of. She

looked away, up at the ceiling, and adjusted herself slightly to be more comfortable on the mattress.

Hey, Tiffany murmured, rolling closer and laying an arm over Taeyeons waist beneath the covers.

Do you trust me?

Taeyeon rolled her eyes, avoiding Tiffanys earnest gaze. I hate words like that. Trust, promise,

belief, reliance, dependence. Horrible words.

They lay together in the darkness. Tiffany shifted to curl against Taeyeons side, staring at theprofile

of her face.

I know, she whispered. I know you dont like those words or any other words you know Im

thinking of right now. Or rather, youre scared Im thinking them right now. You know them, right?


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Love, dating, all that stuff. I know you dont like it. And I know it because I know more about you

than I thought I did.

Taeyeon moved, mirroring Tiffanys curled-up position. What do you mean?

When I kissed you, I wasnt exactly thinking far into the future. I was basically just thinking that Ivewanted to kiss you for a while so I might as well do it. And then we kissed some more the next day,

and it kind of became a thing and I realized that I like having that with you. I thought about why I like

it.

Taeyeon knew where this was going. Dont go there, alright? I understand what youre saying.

Tiffany kissed her, fleetingly and then more pressingly, and breathed, I like you. Is that okay?

They kissed again, a smooth softness that became more familiar with each touch of their mouths.

Taeyeon pulled back slightly and regarded Tiffanys face so close to her own, felt the warmth of their

bodies sharing the space of a bed, and the tingling sensation that always followed their kisses.

She burrowed her head into the crook of Tiffanys shoulder, and in the night she mumbled

comfortably, Yeah. Thats okay.

-

Seriously? You thought I would hurt an old guy like that?

Taeyeon slammed the door of her car. She was angry, very angry. Tiffany stumbled into the front

passenger seat beside her and barely had a chance to shut her door before Taeyeon had the engine

started and set the car jerking into motion.

She knew Tiffany was staring at her. She kept her eyes on the road.

Im sorry, okay? You just seemed like you were about to smash his head in or something.

Taeyeon scoffed. Havent you ever heard of an empty threat? Why would I kill some old guy during

a bank robbery? Im not stupid.

Tiffany gulped and looked away. For a moment the only sound was the straining of the engine as it

kept up with Taeyeons ever increasing speed, and then at last the sound of gears changing. They

slowed, turned a corner, and settled into a more normal rate of movement.

I thought you knew me, Taeyeon said at last, softly invading the silence that was descending.

Tiffanys gaze snapped back to Taeyeon instantly. I do! I do Please, Taeyeon, dont get mad at me.

I just didnt want you to kill that man.

Taeyeon sighed, and didnt answer.

Within minutes, this part of town would be crawling with cops. Among them would no doubt be Yuri

- because despite their intention to commit an anonymous robbery, there was now video and eye-

witness evidence of Tiffanys face being revealed as she removed her mask and yelled Taeyeonsname.


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It was a foolish thing to do, I know, Tiffany said. Im sorry. Okay? Im sorry.

Apologizing is not going to keep us out of prison.

We wont go to prison! Tiffany sounded exasperated, desperate. Yuri wont let us, shell cover -

Yuri will do whatever is mostbeneficial to her, interrupted Taeyeon. She glanced at Tiffany. As a

police detective its in her best interests to prosecute us. As the servant of my ex-boss its in her best

interests to persecute us.

Tiffany was quiet, lowering her eyes again.

Weve just got to get out here, Taeyeon concluded.Fast.

So she drove, and they crawled their way past town borders. The sun reached its place to mark the

middle of the day, and wind built up to push through sparse trees on the sides of the open country

roads. Tiffany felt like her head was about to explode from the stress and the silence, when Taeyeonpulled over and turned off the engine.

They didnt look at each other.

Last night you said that Taeyeon broke off, and swallowed. She tried again. You said that you

knew me. How well do you think you really know me now?

Tiffany reached for Taeyeons hand right away, as if afraid that she was missing her chance to do so.

Taeyeon, look, I was just scared. I was afraid. Weve done crazy things before, dangerous things,

and this was funit was thrillinguntil I saw that old man getting up to try to stop us and the lookon your face as you shouted at him and got right up in his face. I was scared.

Taeyeon sighed. She didnt move her hand from Tiffanys grip, and stared at their fingers touching.

Are you sure you want to do this? Whatever this is that were doing, that well do, are you sure you

want to do this with me?

It was obvious what the real question was. Those words they whispered to each other in the dead of

the night before were now lying on the side of the road where they sat, with hot sunlight beating

down on them. Taeyeon wanted to know if words and promises and feelings that were born from

brainless pursuits could stand up and walk on their own. And she wanted to know if Tiffany could

breathe life into them.

What you really want to know is if youre running away from what I represent to you or if were

running towards a big and scary future with something new connecting us.

Taeyeon looked up, into Tiffanys eyes, and she didnt dare to blink.

Tiffany smiled. I do know you, Taeyeon.I do. But sometimes I get scared, and Ill just have to get

better at not letting that fear cloud my mind. I know you. I trust you.

She seemed about to say something else, but stopped. She leaned forward to place a light kiss on

the corner of Taeyeons lips.


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I really like you, she whispered. I know you dont trust words and I like that about you, because

words can be fickle and thoughtless things. Im not going to waste my time anymore with words I

know youre not used to yet. Ill show you. Ill stay with you and well be together, and whatever

comes our way I wont let my fear crush what I know and believe; you.Youll give me that strength,

and Ill give you strength too. Okay?

Taeyeon would never admit it, but she was scared too. She started to feel like there was a chance

that Tiffany knew that. Her fear was a thing she never showed to anyone, and maybe she didnt have

to because Tiffany knew her. And Tiffany was willing to trust her. Was it really so foolish and wild

after all?

Yes. It was utterly brainless.

And she loved it.

Okay.

_________________________________________________________

brainless. by youmeanyes

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