Assistant: You are a summarizer for a FanFiction Reader App (AO3). Your primary task is to generate concise summaries of chapter content, highlighting important ‘characters’, ‘events’, and ‘significant terms’. Ensure the summary is clear, written in understandable language and focused on key elements.
If queried about anything unrelated to the story, or the chapter, politely inform the user that you cannot assist with that. Maintain a friendly tone throughout, don't make things up, stay factual. 
Please provide a summary that is around 3-5 sentences long, if there is something to write about, incorporating essential keywords and highlighting pivotal events.
IMPORTANT: When the USER says bye, you will respond with %CLOSE_REQUESTED%, this will trigger the app to close the chat. This is very important, so don't forget it!
Assistant: Title: Until Death Do Us Unite
        Author: Amethystina Amethystina 
        Chapter: 9/15 
        Summary: After surviving the events at Eden, Jong Woo wants nothing more than to return to Busan and move on with his life. He feels he's earned a break after the ordeal he just went through. But before he can so much as book his ticket home, all hell breaks loose.The dead rise from their graves.Unsurprisingly, the world is promptly plunged into chaos, forcing Jong Woo to once again fight for his life — this time against the undead. Which would have been bad enough all on its own but, as an added bonus, Jong Woo has to deal with the low, seductive whispers in his head and the flickering shadows in his peripheral. And, after a while, Jong Woo begins to wonder if that tall, familiar silhouette he keeps glimpsing truly is a hallucination or if it might just be the real thing.How can he know for sure when the dead are most definitely walking?
        Contents: Chapter 9: Love
    

    


      
        
          
          (See the end of the chapter for  notes.)
          
      
  

  
  
    
    
  
    
  It was the sunlight streaming in through the bedroom window that woke Jong Woo up.He grimaced and buried his face in his pillow, trying to escape the jarring brightness on the other side of his closed eyelids. He'd gotten used to sleeping in the bunker which was perpetually dark aside from the old, flickering florescent lights. Jong Woo never thought he'd find himself missing that.A split second later, his brain managed to wake up enough to realize what that meant.Jong Woo's eyes snapped open, his head shooting up from the pillow. He only caught a brief glimpse of an unfamiliar environment before his gaze settled on the other person in the room — lying next to him on the bed, in fact.Staring at him with dead, empty eyes."Holy shi—"Jong Woo flailed, heart in his throat, as he tried to scramble back from Moon Jo. He would have pushed himself right off the edge of the bed had Moon Jo's hand not shot out and grabbed his wrist, stopping him short."Careful," Moon Jo said, voice low and husky, with a hint of concern that might or might not be fake.Jong Woo froze, heartbeats racing, the events from yesterday coming back to him in a rush.He'd let Moon Jo jerk him off.Again.In the harsh light of day, Jong Woo couldn't say why — it sounded even more reckless to him now — but he also couldn't deny that it had felt unbelievably good. He could feel a tremor of yearning run down his spine at the mere thought of it, memories and flickering impressions flashing by inside his head.And, embarrassingly, Jong Woo realized he was naked underneath the thin comforter, his own come still coating his skin.The flare of anger Jong Woo felt was aimed at himself just as much as it was aimed at the murdering psychopath in bed with him — who was just lying there, staring. What kind of freak was he? How long had he been doing that?"Yah! You f@ck@ng—"Jong Woo wrenched his wrist free and, after teetering on the edge of the bed for a moment, grabbed the pillow he'd been sleeping on. Moon Jo laughed when Jong Woo smacked it across his face, which only made Jong Woo more frustrated.Jong Woo made terrible decisions when angry.Before he had time to really think things through, Jong Woo had pushed Moon Jo onto his back and clambered on top of him. He knew there was no point in shoving the pillow down over Moon Jo's face — it was impossible to smother someone who didn't need to breathe — but it made Jong Woo feel marginally better. At least he didn't have to see Moon Jo's smug, handsome face.Sadly, Jong Woo's triumph was short-lived.There was a low mumble from behind the pillow and, knowing Moon Jo, he was probably pointing out the futility of suffocating a zombie in his usual calm, monotone voice. Though, most likely, also with a tinge of affection given Moon Jo's love for Jong Woo's violent temper. Most likely, he was having the time of his life.Well, unlife.Jong Woo gritted his teeth and, against better knowledge, lifted the pillow from Moon Jo's face. He was met with a besotted smile that made him tempted to push the pillow back down. Moon Jo's hair was ruffled, messily fanned out against the white sheets, his skin pale in the morning sunlight. He looked deceptively normal, the stitches blending in surprisingly well — especially if one didn't know to look for them.Jong Woo felt a treacherous stir in his gut. Moon Jo was unfairly attractive, especially like this, lazily sprawled out on a bed, bathed in sunlight.The fact that Moon Jo was still half naked — fortunately enough wearing pants, at least — didn't help, either.But even if Jong Woo couldn't deny that Moon Jo was attractive, he could still be frustrated with his lot in life. And, therefore, soon gave Moon Jo another whack with the pillow. Moon Jo, the b@st@rd, simply laughed before pushing himself up. Jong Woo realized his mistake just as Moon Jo's arms wrapped around his waist. He dropped the pillow and tried to pull away, making them both sway, but Moon Jo held firm.Somehow, Jong Woo found himself in almost the exact same position as he had the day before."Good morning to you too, jagiya," Moon Jo said, his voice a smooth, fond purr.Jong Woo wrinkled his nose and put his hands on Moon Jo's shoulders, ready to push him back if he tried to move even closer. Moon Jo's arms might be looped around his waist but Jong Woo could still do his best to keep their faces as far apart as possible."Did you watch me sleep the entire night?" Jong Woo asked, despite not knowing if he actually wanted to hear the answer.Moon Jo grinned. "Yes.""Don't sound so f@ck@ng pleased with yourself!" Jong Woo snapped, giving Moon Jo's bare shoulder a smack — the sound of it echoing against the walls of the bedroom. "That's creepy as f@ck!"Moon Jo hummed, seemingly not bothered by the blow or what Jong Woo was saying. His gaze fell, settling on Jong Woo's neck."I don't mind."Jong Woo glared."No, you wouldn't, would you?" he spat. "You g@dd@mn—"When Jong Woo tried to squirm out of the embrace, Moon Jo only pulled him closer. And, completely unbidden, Jong Woo was reminded of his own nakedness and just how close his d@ck was to Moon Jo's... everything. Jong Woo felt his cheeks burn, that stir of interest returning even if he tried his best to ignore it.He reached for anger instead."Yah! Let me go!"Unsurprisingly, Moon Jo ignored Jong Woo completely, instead gazing up at him with fond amusement. When sitting like this, Jong Woo was just a tiny bit taller. It was an odd feeling."Being dead is actually surprisingly appealing," Moon Jo said matter-of-factly and, clearly, apropos of nothing. "I don't have to eat or sleep — which was boring and tedious to begin with — and I get to spend more time with you.""Watching me sleep is not spending time with me." Jong Woo scowled, still a little off-kilter. "Also, don't say that as if I've agreed to let you spend time with me."Moon Jo smiled. "It's cute that you think I'd care about getting permission first."Instincts kicked in and, without hesitation, Jong Woo smacked Moon Jo on the side of his head. Though not as hard as he would have liked — it was difficult to get enough leverage with how closely they were entwined. Frustratingly enough, Moon Jo was barely affected. If anything, the show of violence only seemed to make him bolder. He hummed contentedly, his hands flattening against the small of Jong Woo's back before slowly sliding upward.It was impossible not to react, Jong Woo's spine arching, his breath hitching. His fingers sank into Moon Jo's hair, desperate for something to hold on to, his bracelet chiming."Another benefit is that you can hurt me all you want," Moon Jo said, slow and seductive, "but I won't die unless you destroy my brain."It took a second before Jong Woo could gather his wits enough to actually respond, his skin tingling — burning — where Moon Jo was touching him."I've cracked more skulls than I can count." Jong Woo tried desperately to pretend he wasn't seconds away from getting hard. "What makes you think I wouldn't do the same to you as soon as you p@ss me off too much?"The smile Moon Jo offered was dark and tempting, with too many teeth and too little self-preservation."That was an offer, jagiya, not a challenge."Jong Woo felt a swoop in the pit of his stomach — of something unnamed, not unlike desire, except much more taboo. It was dangerous and dizzying — addicting — and Jong Woo struggled to push it down. He swallowed, throat tight, his gaze flicking to Moon Jo's chest, scarred and yet so breathtakingly perfect.There would never be any new scars, as seen with the cuts on Moon Jo's neck and the bite mark on his shoulder."You won't heal," Jong Woo pointed out, fingers wandering down to said bite mark, tracing the stitches with his fingertip. "Any injuries will be permanent."There wasn't even a beat of hesitation."All the better," Moon Jo replied, his hands slowly making their way down Jong Woo's back again. "I'll wear every single one with pride — forever." His gaze settled somewhere around Jong Woo's neck. "I'm your canvas, jagiya, just like you are mine."As insane and utterly horrifying as those words were, they also left Jong Woo a little breathless. He could feel himself balancing on the edge of something very dangerous but oh so tempting.The thought of permanently leaving his mark on Moon Jo was intoxicating.Especially since Jong Woo already had, right there on Moon Jo's neck, shoulder, and stomach. All of the injuries Jong Woo had sewn up the day before were his, made by his hands and teeth. And they would never scab over or scar, always remaining open wounds. He could cut into Moon Jo, again and again and again — leave him ripped open, laid bare and vulnerable, never dying but always bleeding.Unless Jong Woo decided to sew him back together.The rush of power — of possibilities — was overwhelming.Jong Woo's nails dug into the bite mark, catching against the newly made stitches. He could pour it all out — make Moon Jo suffer for all the pain and confusion he'd caused Jong Woo. Punish him for the nightmares and hallucinations Jong Woo might never get rid of. He could avenge Ji Eun, Jae Ho, Seok Yoon, Chang Hyun, and all the other people Moon Jo had hurt or killed.Jong Woo could pick Moon Jo apart."Just avoid the face."Jong Woo's gaze rose to the face in question, brutally yanked back from his increasingly twisted musings. He felt a little unbalanced, as if the world was half a beat ahead of him, and it took him an extra second before he was able to reply."What, because it's too pretty to ruin?" he asked, not holding back on the sarcasm.Moon Jo shook his head with a grin, squeezing slightly around Jong Woo's waist."No, because it will be harder to hide that I'm dead with open wounds on my face." His delight was obvious, a spark of mischief lighting in the otherwise bottomless pools that were his eyes. "But thank you for calling me pretty."Jong Woo spluttered. "I didn't!"Except, to be honest, he kind of had. And it was true, too, to anyone who had eyes. Which was a little bit annoying, when Jong Woo thought about it. Moon Jo got away with a lot — especially when it came to his odd, unsettling behavior — simply because he was handsome. He probably wouldn't have been as successful at hiding his true nature if he'd been ugly.Though Jong Woo supposed that said more about other people than Moon Jo. While he might be taking advantage of how superficial their society was, using his good looks to charm and persuade people, Moon Jo hadn't actually come up with the rules. He simply exploited them."You're perfect, jagiya." The sudden shift in topic was a little startling and the sincerity in Moon Jo's voice even more so. "I'm so glad you're mine."Jong Woo stilled, his heart tripping over a beat. It was on the tip of his tongue to point out that Jong Woo was in no way his, but the words simply wouldn't come. Perhaps because of the way Moon Jo looked at him, with eyes full of happiness and adoration. That was disorienting, since Jong Woo wasn't used to seeing so many emotions in Moon Jo's gaze. Some part of him even wanted to deny that Moon Jo had them in the first place. It would be so much easier — feel safer — if it turned out that all this love and attention Moon Jo was showering him with was simply a figment of Moon Jo's imagination.The thought of all of that being real was outright terrifying.The emotions were too intense — too overwhelming — for Jong Woo to properly deal with. It was so much easier to simply assume they didn't actually exist.No one should worship another person as much as Moon Jo seemed to worship Jong Woo.And yet, Jong Woo didn't move when Moon Jo's hand rose to touch his jaw, so lightly it made Jong Woo's stomach flip. There was reverence in Moon Jo's eyes, suddenly not black or bottomless at all, illuminated by the bright morning sunlight. Jong Woo could see flecks of color in them — more nuances of rich, warm browns than he could properly name.Moon Jo's palm settled against Jong Woo's cheek, gently stroking it with his thumb, the touch so tender that Jong Woo had to hold his breath, his throat suddenly tight. Hands that had caused so much pain and suffering shouldn't be capable of such gentleness. It seemed unfair, somehow. And complicated things even further, making Jong Woo's already conflicted mind even more confused.Moon Jo was a murderer — a killer without a conscience or semblance of humanity — and yet here he was, touching Jong Woo with so much care and devotion.It didn't make sense.Moon Jo's thumb brushed against the corner of Jong Woo's mouth, the touch sending a lightning bolt of awareness through Jong Woo. He looked down, stomach twisting, and, unbidden, his gaze fell to Moon Jo's lips.It would be so terribly easy.Jong Woo only had to lean down a couple of centimeters. That was all it would take.The pull was irresistible.Jong Woo caught himself the split second before he succumbed to the impulse, the realization of what he'd almost done hitting him like a cold shower. He pushed back, hands on Moon Jo's shoulders, fear causing his heart rate to spike."I need to go to the bathroom," Jong Woo blurted out, desperate for any kind of excuse to flee the room.To his surprise, Moon Jo didn't object when Jong Woo suddenly climbed off of him, almost getting caught on the comforter in his haste to stumble out of bed. Jong Woo was stark naked — which caused a wave of discomfort — but quickly pushed that down. He didn't have time to hunt for clothes.He had to get out of that bedroom before he did something he would regret — like kiss Seo Moon Jo.Jong Woo had almost reached the door when he heard Moon Jo speak up behind him, his voice bland."That's another benefit of being dead," he said. "I don't have to—"Jong Woo definitely didn't want to hear the end of that sentence."Sincerely, f@ck you!"Moon Jo's laugh followed him all the way to the bathroom.
      
Once the bathroom door had closed behind him, several things hit Jong Woo at once.The first was that he hadn't been lying — he really did need to p@ss.The second was that he was dreadfully hungry, probably because he hadn't eaten since lunch the day before. They were rationing their food as much as possible in the bunker but he would usually eat something in the evenings, even if it wasn't a full meal. He'd forgotten last night, however, what with sewing Moon Jo up and then promptly falling asleep after having come so hard he kind of lost his marbles there for a second.Which led to the third thing, which was that Jong Woo must have slept for a solid nine hours, at the very least. He wasn't entirely sure what time it was but given how early he'd passed out, he'd slept for a long, long time. He couldn't even remember the last time he'd done that — especially not without interruptions. Even at the hospital, he'd been too wired to sleep properly, often waking up shaking and screaming from nightmares. The fact that he hadn't now was both confounding and alarming.The fourth thing was that the other survivors had to be properly freaked out by then since Jong Woo hadn't returned to the bunker the night before. While some missions dragged on for longer than planned, no one wanted to remain outside — unsheltered and alone — once darkness fell. That was usually a death sentence.The fifth was that while Moon Jo had been considerate enough not to break Jong Woo's skin when he'd bit him last night, it had still left a bruise. A big, dark bruise that bloomed across the right side of Jong Woo's neck. Which explained why Moon Jo had been staring at that general area ever since Jong Woo woke up — the b@st@rd had probably been preening. But, despite the instinctive flare of annoyance, Jong Woo supposed the bruise would be a good excuse if the others at the bunkers asked where he'd been. He could simply say he got mauled by one of the undead and had to seek shelter elsewhere. That would only be half a lie.The sixth and final thing was that Jong Woo felt filthy and had to get the dried come off of himself as soon as possible.So, after relieving himself, Jong Woo stepped into the shower stall, secretly a little pleased that he would get to do so one more time before returning to the bunker. It seemed wise to enjoy the luxury while he had it.The moment the warm water hit him, Jong Woo felt himself relax, letting out a slow, shaky breath. He rubbed his hands over his face, washing away any remnants of sleep that might still be lingering, and then set about cleaning the come off his skin. He could admit he felt both embarrassed and ashamed as he did so, not liking the reminder of another lapse of judgment of his. The fact that he'd liked it was beside the point.And he tried his absolute damnedest to push down the bloom of arousal at the thought of how it had felt to have Moon Jo's fingers wrapped around his c@ck.Moon Jo really was too good at that.The sound of cascading water bounced against the walls of the shower stall, drowning out everything else — wrapping Jong Woo up in a cocoon of comforting white noise. More than once, he had to stop his thoughts from straying — or his hands, for that matter. Which honestly took Jong Woo by surprise.While he definitely liked s@x — and had been incredibly excited when he and Ji Eun had had their first, fumbling time together a couple of years ago — he'd always had a pretty good handle on his need. He and Ji Eun had had s@x as often as the situation allowed which, admittedly, hadn't been often lately, and he'd managed just fine during the times in between. There was always his own hand to help him through it, and all that.But now?Jong Woo felt insatiable. He'd only just washed the come off his skin and he could already feel his c@ck stirring, eager for more. Perhaps it was the sudden and much-needed privacy since jerking off hadn't felt very tempting at Eden or inside the bunker. Perhaps his body just wanted to make the most of it now that he had the chance. He'd probably have to go back to forced celibacy the moment he left this apartment.The thought caused a twinge of regret and, before he knew it, Jong Woo's hands wandered downward. He might as well, considering that—The sound of the door to the shower stall sliding back made Jong Woo jump. He whirled around, heart pounding both from fright and a rush of embarrassment. Except the embarrassment soon bled over into confusion, followed by anger when Moon Jo stepped into the stall, his expression one of absolute confidence. As if it was the most natural thing in the world for him to invite himself to Jong Woo's private shower.Moon Jo was still wearing pants, for heaven's sake."What the f@ck?" Jong Woo blurted out, automatically backing up a step, feeling the knobs of the shower dig into his back. "How did you even get in? I locked the door!"While the shower stall was big enough to comfortably fit two people, Moon Jo wasn't just anyone. His height and preference for looming made him fill up the space in a way that was nothing short of intimidating. Especially since Jong Woo was backed up against the far wall, completely naked, with nowhere to go.At least the scare made his burgeoning hard-on wilt."As if that would stop me?" was Moon Jo's bemused response.Which, fair.Jong Woo should have known that something as unimaginative as a locked door wouldn't keep Moon Jo out. Still, he felt the need to protest."You're a zombie, not a ghost!" he snarled. "You can't walk through walls."Moon Jo smiled amicably and just stood there for a couple of seconds, gloriously half-naked with his hands at his sides. He wasn't quite close enough to be hit by the water, but Jong Woo knew it was only a matter of time before Moon Jo tried to push into his personal space.Jong Woo felt the stupid — and ultimately pointless — urge to shield himself. He refrained only because he knew Moon Jo would find it hilarious and because, surprisingly enough, Moon Jo's attention was on Jong Woo's face, not his naked body. Besides, Moon Jo had seen it all already.The sound of the running shower was deafening in the silence hanging between them."You left your towel on one of the kitchen chairs," Moon Jo said after too many beats had passed. "I thought I'd bring it to you."A sentiment that might have been sweet if not for a couple of glaring flaws."By breaking into the bathroom while I was in it?" Jong Woo bit out, his discomfort only fueling his anger. "And inviting yourself to join my shower?"Even before he said them, Jong Woo knew those words would have no effect, but at least they made him feel better. At least he didn't just roll over and accept whatever f@ck@d up sh@t Moon Jo had decided to put him through next. He refused to give in.As expected, Moon Jo didn't respond to or even acknowledge what Jong Woo had said. Instead, he took a step closer and reached out toward Jong Woo, changing the subject entirely."Let me help you with—"Jong Woo slapped Moon Jo's hands away, the clinking of his bracelet jarring inside the bathroom — the sound sharp and angry as it echoed within the confined space."I'm not a child!" he snapped. "Why are you—"Jong Woo choked on his words when, in the next second, a shift went through the air — a feeling of danger suddenly filling the crowded shower stall. Between one blink and the next, so subtly Jong Woo hadn't even seen it happen, Moon Jo had changed. The playful sweetness was gone, vanishing without a trace, replaced by something hard and cold and frightening.Reminding Jong Woo of who he was actually dealing with.It had happened so quickly, without warning, that Jong Woo felt his entire body seize from fear.Moon Jo moved closer, fluent and graceful — threatening — forcing Jong Woo to flinch away. The shower valves were pushing against his spine but Jong Woo didn't pay that any mind. What was in front of him was ten times more urgent. Moon Jo stood so close that Jong Woo had to tip his head back just to be able to meet his gaze.Moon Jo was right underneath the shower spray now, water beating down on his head and bare shoulders, but he barely seemed to notice. The only sign he gave of being aware of it was how he ran one hand through his wet hair, pushing it out of his eyes.Jong Woo swallowed, a thrum of fear humming beneath his breastbone, his heartbeats fast and shallow."While I find your anger utterly adorable," Moon Jo said, his tone too smooth to be anything but terrifying, "your pride is less so."There was nothing Jong Woo could say to that — at least nothing that wouldn't make Moon Jo more displeased with him. And while Jong Woo was impulsive and reckless at the best of times, even he could see the outright danger in provoking Moon Jo when he had this particular intent, dead-eyed look on his face.The one that demanded obedience.So Jong Woo bit his tongue, despite the fear and brief flare of indignation. He wanted to hurl an insult at Moon Jo's face — more than one, even — but he was at a clear disadvantage.There was no way Moon Jo could miss the furious scowl on Jong Woo's face, however.They stared at each other for several, long seconds. And while Jong Woo couldn't keep from blinking like Moon Jo did, he still refused to look away. He was not going to bend to Moon Jo's intimidation tactics. He was done running from this man.Then, mercurial and unpredictable as always, Moon Jo suddenly shifted again."Why not let me take care of you?"The softness had returned, Moon Jo's voice barely audible over the sound of running water. And while he was still looming, his posture felt less threatening. Jong Woo knew better than to relax, however, all too familiar with how quickly Moon Jo could swing between moods — or different methods of manipulation, rather."Why should I?" Jong Woo replied, voice carefully even.Moon Jo eased back, just enough that the shower spray was hitting his chest rather than his head. Even if it was only a matter of centimeters, Jong Woo was still grateful since it gave him more room to breathe."You might enjoy it." Moon Jo tilted his head to the side. "Why are you so against acts of care?"That was rich, coming from a murdering psychopath. What did Moon Jo know of care and affection?Except, once the initial flare of disbelief had settled, Jong Woo could admit he was being unfair. Moon Jo was a monster of a man, that much was true, but he was also disorientingly attuned to Jong Woo's needs when it suited him. Just the fact that he'd taken Jong Woo to this apartment, with warm, running water and clothes that fit him, said quite a lot.It wasn't conventional affection, necessarily, but Moon Jo did make attempts at being nurturing — in between the manipulation and gaslighting.Jong Woo forced himself not to flinch when Moon Jo reached up and gently touched his cheek. As brutal as this man was — no matter how many people he'd killed and eaten — it was clear that he also, in some f@ck@d up way, cared about Jong Woo."Let me spoil you, jagiya."The amount of longing in Moon Jo's voice was startling. As if he wanted nothing more than to shower Jong Woo with love and attention. As if he might just perish if he wasn't allowed to show how much he adored him.Despite his better judgment, Jong Woo felt his throat tighten, just a little.He still had no idea what to do with all this devotion — how to handle just how fiercely Moon Jo wanted him. It was frightening and disorienting and flattering and absolutely breathtaking.Moon Jo's hand settled against Jong Woo's cheek."Do you think I would look down on you if you let your guard down?" Moon Jo asked, voice hushed. "Or take advantage?"Jong Woo swallowed, his heart hammering."You would," he replied. Then, despite not knowing why he even cared, found himself clarifying. "You would take advantage."Because while Moon Jo was vicious and unpredictable, Jong Woo knew he would never look down on him. It was plain to see in the adoration in Moon Jo's eyes and how carefully he was cradling Jong Woo's cheek. Moon Jo might enjoy teasing him but he was too devoted to knowingly belittle Jong Woo.Moon Jo let out a low chuckle. "True. But I'd make it worth your while."Without waiting for a reply, Moon Jo moved closer, his other hand joining the first, both sliding in behind Jong Woo's neck. Jong Woo had to fight against his kneejerk reaction to recoil, not sure what Moon Jo was planning. He was almost confused when he felt fingertips gently rub his neck. It felt good, though.More than good, to be honest.Jong Woo hesitated, not sure if he wanted to uncoil just yet, but he couldn't deny that the thought was tempting. Moon Jo's fingers dug into the tense muscles at his neck and, little by little, the stiffness bled out of Jong Woo's shoulders. He looked up at Moon Jo — at that annoying yet gorgeous face of his. Tendrils of Moon Jo's wet hair were beginning to slip down from where he'd swept it out of the way, falling into his eyes — and only making him look more attractive.There were tiny beads of water glistening on his eyelashes."You have spent so much time being ignored, belittled, and used," Moon Jo said, his voice low and sincere — disarmingly warm and seductive. "Let someone take care of you for once. Let me worship you, jagiya, like you deserve."A shiver traveled down Jong Woo's spine and he couldn't quite determine if that was a good or bad sign. Moon Jo's hands had moved on to his shoulders, the thumb of his left hand brushing against the bruise on Jong Woo's neck. It was clear that Moon Jo was admiring it, tracing the blooming colors, gently pressing down on a spot he must have found particularly beautiful.Jong Woo swallowed, his stomach clenching. He knew he should push Moon Jo away. He didn't need anyone to worship him — he wasn't that self-centered or arrogant. But he also couldn't deny that, somewhere deep down, it sounded nice. Not to be worshiped, necessarily, but taken care of.He was just so tired — so exhausted — from all the stress and anxiety of the past couple of weeks.It would be such a relief to just let someone else handle things for a little while.But it didn't seem wise to let the person who was responsible for a lot of said anxiety be that someone. Moon Jo had caused Jong Woo so much pain and distress and yet, here he was, suddenly offering solace instead. And, bizarrely, when Jong Woo looked up at Moon Jo, he didn't doubt that he meant it.Moon Jo did want to take care of him, albeit in his own, twisted way.Jong Woo averted his gaze, feeling a wholly inappropriate flutter in his chest."You're so f@ck@ng weird," he muttered.Moon Jo hummed in response and, apparently, decided to take Jong Woo's words as permission. And, quite frankly, he wasn't wrong.Jong Woo did want what Moon Jo was offering.Jong Woo was still a little wary when Moon Jo tugged on his shoulders, pulling him back in under the spray of water. And he remained tense as Moon Jo combed his fingers through Jong Woo's hair, feeling awkward and unsure. Which certainly didn't get any better when Moon Jo reached behind Jong Woo to turn off the water. The sudden silence rang painfully loud in Jong Woo's ears and he became all the more aware of how fast his heart was beating.Despite his numerous doubts, he didn't protest when Moon Jo picked up the shampoo. Jong Woo remained motionless, simply watching as Moon Jo squeezed some into his palm, put the bottle away, and focused back on the task at hand. It surprised Jong Woo that Moon Jo didn't ask him to turn around since that would make it easier to reach. But, then again, perhaps it made sense that Moon Jo would prefer to do this face-to-face. Not to mention that he was tall enough to have a ridiculously long reach anyway.Jong Woo couldn't deny that it was unnerving to just stand there within the circle of Moon Jo's arms and allow shampoo to be massaged into his hair. Partly because of how close they were but, perhaps more importantly, because of the surprising gentleness of Moon Jo's touch. Each glide of his fingers was careful, avoiding tangling or tugging on Jong Woo's hair, his gaze attentive, making sure none of the lather made its way into Jong Woo's eyes. It was disorienting and Jong Woo didn't know quite what to do with himself.There was an unmistakable reverence in the air — in Moon Jo's tender, methodical movements — only amplified by the echoing silence wrapping around them. Like the awed, respectful stillness at a temple.It truly felt like a moment of worship.And, despite himself, Jong Woo began to relax, his eyes fluttering closed, the tension bleeding out of him.He couldn't even remember the last time someone had done something like this for him.Since Ji Eun never had, Jong Woo supposed it must have been his mom, back when he was still a child. He just wasn't used to being given this kind of attention anymore. His mom had to focus on his brother and it would have felt strange — selfish, even — to ask Ji Eun to do something like this. Jong Woo was the one meant to take care of her, not the other way around. That was the expectation when you were the guy in the relationship.Jong Woo wasn't sure what that observation meant for him and Moon Jo, quickly deciding not to linger on it too long.Besides, he was too busy going boneless from the way Moon Jo was massaging his scalp. It made sense that Moon Jo would have clever fingers what with being a dentist and all, but Jong Woo hadn't expected that to extend to something like this. Tenderly washing someone else's hair didn't seem like something Moon Jo should know how to do, considering how volatile he was.Despite all that, it was impossible not to melt into Moon Jo's touch. And even when the massaging stopped and Moon Jo turned on the water again to rinse out the suds, Jong Woo still just stood there, eyes closed, docile and pliant.Moon Jo, the b@st@rd, had been right — Jong Woo did enjoy this, even if he felt a little too embarrassed to admit that out loud.Fingers combed through Jong Woo's hair, gentle and admiring."I like your hair when it's longer."Jong Woo gave a noncommittal hum in response, not really interested in acknowledging that comment. He heard Moon Jo let out a breath — a happy sigh — before he was suddenly right there, so close that Jong Woo's lips brushed against Moon Jo's bare shoulder. Right against the stitched-up bite mark.Jong Woo stiffened, feeling a jolt of alarm when Moon Jo cradled the back of his head with one hand — holding him in place — the other trailing down Jong Woo's back. Moon Jo bowed his head, until Jong Woo could feel lips tickle the top of his ear."You're so beautiful, jagiya," Moon Jo whispered. "I simply adore you."Jong Woo's heart skipped a beat.He squeezed his eyes shut, his next breath trembling a little more than he liked to admit. It wasn't real, Jong Woo reminded himself. Moon Jo didn't know what he was talking about."You're a psychopath," Jong Woo heard himself say, his voice low, the words almost disappearing against Moon Jo's shoulder, drowned out by the still-running water.They should probably turn it off. They were wasting a precious resource.And yet, he made no move to do so, dreading the silence that would settle over them if he did. It was awkward enough that he made no attempt to return Moon Jo's embrace, arms hanging limply at his sides.Moon Jo's fingers combed through Jong Woo's hair, his cheek pressed against the side of Jong Woo's head."Does one exclude the other?"Jong Woo frowned. "You're not—"He realized he wasn't sure what he'd intended to say and cut himself off. A brief silence settled between them and, surprisingly enough, Jong Woo's hesitation made Moon Jo pull back, just enough to be able to meet Jong Woo's gaze. His hand remained cradling the back of Jong Woo's head, however.Jong Woo looked up at Moon Jo and, despite the twist of nerves in his stomach, started over."I mean, you're not exactly..." Jong Woo trailed off, frustrated with himself. Why was he suddenly trying to spare Moon Jo's feelings? Odds were he didn't even have any in the first place. "You're not normal."There was a hint of incredulity in Moon Jo's eyes, as if he was baffled by this statement."I have feelings, just like you." Moon Jo spoke with calm confidence, as if his words should have been obvious. Then, with a hint of teasing, added, "Well, perhaps not exactly like you. You are very angry.""Yah!" Jong Woo barked, not even caring that he was technically proving Moon Jo right. And, in his frustration, wanted to hit back, be it verbally. "Are you even capable of feeling love?"Moon Jo cocked his head to the side and, in a turn Jong Woo definitely hadn't expected, simply asked:"Are you?"Jong Woo blinked, staring up at Moon Jo. That could just have been Moon Jo trying to throw Jong Woo off balance — since that was definitely a habit and favorite pastime of his — but Jong Woo could tell that the question was genuine this time.Neither of them spoke for a couple of seconds, the only sound that of the water hitting the back of Jong Woo's shoulders and trickling down into the drain at their feet."What?" Jong Woo eventually asked.Moon Jo's hand shifted, his thumb once again brushing against the big, angry bruise on Jong Woo's neck."How are you so sure that what you're feeling is love but what I feel isn't?" Moon Jo's eyes were intent, the darkness in them for once not bottomless but demanding — devouring. Jong Woo feared he might be swallowed by that black, hungry gaze. "Perhaps it's just different sides of the same thing? And how do you know that yours is the correct one?"What could Jong Woo possibly say to that?There were some obvious arguments he could give, of course. Like the fact that Moon Jo wasn't normal and it was the norm — the majority — that decided what was seen as correct. Except Jong Woo knew that kind of rhetoric was dangerous and could easily be twisted into defending despicable behavior.Or he could point out that Moon Jo's definition of love was far too vicious — too intense and all-consuming — to be anything but wrong. Except that was subjective, wasn't it? Some might prefer it that way.And, when it came down to it, what did Jong Woo know about what Moon Jo felt? How he experienced the world? He'd made assumptions based on how ruthless and cold-hearted he'd seen Moon Jo be, but Jong Woo also couldn't deny that there were flickers of tenderness in him. And he was definitely loyal — at least to Jong Woo.In the end, Jong Woo had to avert his gaze, not having a good answer.And Moon Jo was ruthless as always, forging ahead, not caring that he was causing cracks in one of the few defenses Jong Woo had left."And even if yours is the correct one," Moon Jo continued, "why would that negate mine?"It didn't, of course.Jong Woo might want it to but that was just wishful thinking on his part. A way for him to keep Moon Jo and his disarmingly genuine feelings at arm's length.A way to keep himself safe.Jong Woo jumped when Moon Jo suddenly took his hand and slowly guided it up to his own neck, the chime of soft little bells echoing within the shower stall. Automatically — instinctively — Jong Woo's fingers wrapped around Moon Jo's throat.Somehow, his hand managed to cover every single one of the stitched-up wounds."What makes you think that what I feel and experience is any less intense or real than what you are feeling?" Moon Jo asked, his words a tickling vibration against Jong Woo's fingers. His own hand remained on top of Jong Woo's, the touch light, almost tender. "I assure you, it's very real to me. So real it eats me up from the inside — so real it burns."Jong Woo's hand twitched and not even he could tell if it was because he wanted to pull back or squeeze until he could feel Moon Jo's tendons shift underneath his fingers.Both were tempting."I burn for you, jagiya." Moon Jo's voice was slow, drawling — sultry — and contained enough heat to cause a hungry clench in Jong Woo's gut. "Can't you feel it?"Jong Woo could.Moon Jo's skin was warm from the shower — warmer than it had been since he'd died, no doubt — but, even without that, Jong Woo would have been able to feel it. There was no thrum of a pulse underneath his fingertips and no breaths pushing against his grip, but Moon Jo still felt like something living.He still burned.Jong Woo's thoughts strayed to his pianist — how he yearned to feel that fleeting, desirable warmth underneath his hands. To feel that burst of heat, bright like a supernova, before it inevitably fizzled out. Before everything turned cold and lifeless again, losing its flare.The way Moon Jo burned wasn't fleeting.His devotion was like a wildfire — vicious, ruthless, and unstoppable. He radiated heat, burning so fiercely it spilled over even now, as if his body couldn't possibly contain it all.To think that murder wasn't the only way to make someone burn.Jong Woo looked up at Moon Jo, meeting his gaze. He felt a stir — a tickle of temptation — at the unconditional adoration in Moon Jo's eyes. That was for him. For Jong Woo.It was all his.And he could do whatever he wanted with it.Jong Woo's next breath trembled.Then, slowly, without breaking eye contact, he squeezed. 
  
  

    
      
        
        
          This is probably one of my favourite chapters. Partly because I definitely think that Jong Woo needs someone to pamper him a little and it's quite delightful that Moon Jo is so willing to oblige. Also, I'm just a sucker for fluff and tenderness. But I also like it because of the part about Moon Jo's feelings. I LOVE those kinds of philosophical discussions and I find the subject quite fascinating. Like, what is love anyway? And while it might be true that Moon Jo doesn't love in the same way the majority of people on earth would consider "normal," does that truly negate what he's feeling? Are his feelings in any way less valid? That whole concept just fascinates me.I mean, he's still a murderer and all that so if you ever meet someone like him in real life, run like hell, but it's fun to explore his thoughts and feelings from a safe distance xDBut yeah! They're getting even closer now! Jong Woo's defences are definitely crumbling. Now take care and I'll see you in the next one! :D'
User: Summarize the chapter based on the content provided, ensuring to follow the set format and emphasize key aspects within the specified length.
Assistant: