Scarlet Strings.

The Black Mannequin

The night hadn’t gone as planned, but at least Ha-Joon was safe and sound. She glanced at the clock on her nightstand, it was later than she’d realized, and exhaustion was beginning to set in. 

Before heading to bed, Scarlet decided to freshen up. She walked into her en-suite bathroom, the cool tiles soothing against her bare feet. Her nightly routine was a sacred ritual, one she never skipped no matter how tired she was. She washed her face, carefully removing her makeup and following it up with her usual skincare routine, toner, serum, moisturizer, and a light lip balm. 

Feeling refreshed, Scarlet changed into her favorite one-piece pajama, a bright green dinosaur onesie complete with a hood that had little felt spikes running down the back. It was oversized and ridiculously comfortable, the perfect thing to unwind in after a long day. 

Finally, she climbed into bed, the plush sheets and soft pillows welcoming her like an old friend. She pulled the blankets up to her chin, letting out a contented sigh as she nestled into the mattress. 

Her thoughts drifted back to Ha-Joon, to his drunken antics and the way he’d smiled at her despite being completely out of it. She couldn’t bring herself to stay annoyed at him, not when he was so unapologetically himself, even in moments like these. 

Scarlet closed her eyes, a small smile playing on her lips as sleep began to overtake her.

***

Scarlet stirred awake to the sound of her alarm clock blaring at 8 a.m. sharp. The soft morning light filtered through the sheer curtains in her room, illuminating the calm pastel tones of her sanctuary. With a quiet groan, she stretched her arms above her head, loosening the stiffness in her body, before swinging her legs over the side of the bed. 

The routine began again. Scarlet padded into her en-suite bathroom, splashing her face with cold water to fully wake herself. After a thorough refresh, she chose her outfit for the day, a sleek sky-blue Chester coat paired with tailored pants that accentuated her elegant frame.

The outfit was cinched at the waist with a simple belt, emphasizing her professional yet chic demeanor. Her long black hair was pulled into a high ponytail, cascading down her back in a glossy sheet. Minimal makeup followed: a touch of foundation, a hint of blush, and a nude lipstick to complete the polished look. 

Satisfied with her reflection, Scarlet grabbed her phone and descended the wide staircase, her heels clicking softly against the polished wooden steps. 

The sprawling mansion greeted her with quiet luxury. The dining room was a blend of modern and classical design, with a long table made of polished mahogany situated in the center. The maids were bustling about, setting the table with their usual efficiency.

Scarlet nodded to them in acknowledgment before taking her place at her end of the table. As she sat, her eyes wandered to the ornate clock hanging on the wall. The hands read 9 a.m. sharp. She sighed softly and looked at one of the maids. 

“Please prepare something for Mr. Wi,” she instructed, her voice even. “Something light, preferably. He’ll need it for the headache.” 

The maid bowed respectfully and disappeared into the kitchen. Scarlet leaned back slightly in her chair, her fingers tracing the rim of the glass of water in front of her. The quiet was momentarily interrupted by hurried footsteps coming down the stairs. 

Scarlet turned her head, already anticipating the arrival of Ha-Joon. He appeared at the doorway, his steps measured but brisk, his face fresh and composed. If she hadn’t been there to witness his antics last night, she would never have guessed he had been drunk out of his mind.