BAI Ch 12

It was unclear whether he was asking for an opinion or trying to start a debate. But that didn’t matter anymore. Kwon Sehyuk had sensed the hostility in his opponent and was ready to repay the insult he’d received twofold.

The rookie’s voice was even more heated than before. He kept adding unnecessary remarks not in the script. It was to the point where the female MC, who should have moderated the pace, couldn’t interject. Kwon Sehyuk smiled with all his strength.

“In the end, what it comes down to is this. Regardless of one’s effort or will, there are opportunities missed, or rather, cases where one doesn’t even get a chance to begin with. Can we really say those people didn’t try hard enough?”

The rookie thrashed about like a fish in water.

“In fact, doesn’t the Prince know this too? The quantity and quality of information passed down through wealth. The means that directly prove that gap is none other than the grades that determine students’ futures.”

The writer frowned, and the producer raised a hand to intervene. But the rookie pretended not to notice. Kwon Sehyuk shook his head inwardly.

He wasn’t staying quiet because he had nothing to say. It was merely a running start for a high jump.

The script no longer mattered. Kwon Sehyuk knew this broadcast would never be edited to his disadvantage. After all, no one would want their neck on the line alongside a flagship program.

With a smile, Kwon Sehyuk spoke.

“Of course, effort requires conditions. But who sets those conditions?”

“That’s something in this society…”

“Most people would think that way. Those frogs in a well, standing on the same level as others, looking at the same things, with the same mindset anyone could have.”

Kwon Sehyuk raised his index finger.

“What’s important is thinking differently from others.”

“Even if you say such idealistic things, reality…”

“There’s something in this world harder than reality. It’s prejudice.”

The rookie’s lips twitched.

“Prejudice? Has the Prince ever experienced such a thing?”

“Of course.”

Kwon Sehyuk nodded lightly.

“Anyone would have experienced it. There are more people than you’d think who carelessly spout off based on appearances, past actions, or average statistics of a certain class or profession. Without even knowing the other person well.”

He looked into the rookie’s eyes. Do you understand what I’m saying? Do you get it?

The prejudice worse than reality—that’s exactly what you have toward me. Attacking me without even knowing me.

Kwon Sehyuk observed the rookie’s subtly stiffening face. He leisurely took in the pathetic sight of the rookie finally grasping the situation, glancing around to gauge the staff and cast’s reactions. Silently, Kwon Sehyuk recited Shin Haebeom’s teachings.

I’m not taking what belongs to others.

Competition is the natural order of the world.

✶⋆.˚

The coffee, which he’d thought was overly bitter, paired well with the rich chocolate cake. Ryujin devoured the cake in no time. As he smacked his lips in lingering regret, Shin Haebeom asked.

“Want more?”

“Is that okay?”

Ryujin quietly picked up the fork he’d set down. Shin Haebeom pulled out his wallet from his back pocket and stood up.

“You pick.”

Ryujin silently followed Shin Haebeom to the first floor. He stood in front of the cake and cookie display. There were many types he’d never seen before. Small, pretty cake slices, various scones, muffins, donuts, and candies so intricate they could be mistaken for toys… Among all these desserts, Shin Haebeom chose only a pudding. The rest were all for Ryujin. They waited a while due to the large order.

“You carry it.”

The large tray was heavier than expected, but Ryujin’s heart felt as light as a feather.

As soon as he sat down, he grabbed a scone. He slathered it with strawberry jam and cheese and stuffed it into his mouth. Crumbs scattered across the table. Seeing this, Shin Haebeom’s face crumpled.

“Messy!”

Ryujin pouted. He couldn’t understand why desserts had to be nibbled with a fork. There was a reason they were made bite-sized. For instance, to be easily picked up and eaten by hand.

Ryujin expressed his opinion to Shin Haebeom, who only scoffed.

“Where does your brain go to come up with ideas like that?”

Shin Haebeom was elegant. His approach to food was different from the start. Sitting with his legs crossed, the way he moved his spoon was like an etiquette textbook. It was impressive, but Ryujin had no desire to go that far. Life was tiring enough.

While eating a blueberry cake topped with heaps of cream, Shin Haebeom spoke.

“Any progress with MVP?”

“He hasn’t mentioned needing medicine yet. But he’s clinging to me in a different way.”

Maybe…

“He’s probably lonely.”

“You’re practically friends now.”

“Don’t be sarcastic. Someone with tons of friends like you wouldn’t get it.”

Ryujin didn’t like Kwon Sehyuk, but he could understand the isolation he felt. Being alone among adults is lonely.

“He even said to me…”

“What? What did MVP say?”

“It’s nothing.”

Shin Haebeom’s spoon struck the back of Ryujin’s hand. Ryujin clutched his hand without making a sound.

“Speak.”

“He said we’re like a special pair.”

Shin Haebeom didn’t even try to hide his laughter.

“Why are you laughing?”

“Just thinking the rookie has a romantic side.”

Shin Haebeom pictured Kwon Sehyuk’s face. The pathetic expression of being checked by a broadcast senior at the shoot, grumbling about it. It annoyed him that the rookie, despite being attacked and upset, didn’t want to take anyone’s bowl.

So he disciplined him. To ensure he wouldn’t follow Kwon Joohyuk’s plans. To make him unable to keep that pure heart. To prevent him from escaping this filthy mire alone, clueless.

Rubbing his red, swollen hand, Ryujin said.

“The kid’s kind.”

“Let me make this clear: it’s all Kwon Joohyuk’s design.”

“I know. I’m not saying I’m getting soft.”

“Then what? Why are you going on about MVP’s good character?”

“I just…!”

Ryujin couldn’t continue and dropped his gaze. Shin Haebeom stared at Ryujin’s eyelashes and said.

“Done eating?”

Ryujin nodded.

“Then it’s my turn to make a request.”

“A request? Not an order?”

“Meet Kwon Joohyuk once.”

“What?”

“I said meet Kwon Joohyuk.”

Ryujin snapped his head up and glared at Shin Haebeom. He wanted to demand he repeat what he just said.

But with a trembling voice, he could only manage one word.

“Why?”

“Isn’t it obvious? You think just anyone can be placed as MVP’s closest aide?”

“Didn’t you handle that part?”

Shin Haebeom smiled, thinking of the <Phaethon> project he’d meticulously written and submitted to Kwon Joohyuk. Did this dimwit know how much time and energy went into drafting documents that went up the chain?

“Think of it as an interview you’ve already passed.”

“Why do I have to see that guy’s face? Why do I have to interview with him? You dragged me into this, and you can’t even cover something like that?!”

“Lower your voice.”

“No way. I’ll pay for what I ate, the food bill. Then I don’t have to listen to you, right?”

Shin Haebeom considered throwing him in a room with Ha Shinsung but, seeing a face that was just starting to be tolerable, unclenched his fist. An easier path came to mind.

“Fine.”

His smiling lips twitched.

“If you don’t want to, I can’t force you. I’m not going to insist.”

“You’re understanding?”

“What can I do if you refuse?”

The shadow lifted from Ryujin’s face. Shin Haebeom thought to himself: it’s rare for someone’s emotions to show so openly.

Shin Haebeom watched Ryujin’s back as he carried the plates and tray to the counter. As Shin Yena had said, he really didn’t gain weight.

“We’re going to the Disciplinary Corps.”

Shin Haebeom said as he fastened his seatbelt.

“Why?”

“Don’t you want to pick up your license? Yena’s probably expecting it.”

“…….”

“You’re close with the 11th-floor staff, right? Aren’t you curious how they’re doing?”

“…….”

“Lieutenant Ki might be too stoic, but Sung Jaekyung misses you a lot. You haven’t forgotten already, have you? You marked the calendar to eat with him.”

Shin Haebeom chuckled and added.

“The circle was cute.”

“Shut up. How long will it take?”

“Not long. Scan this, get your fingerprints, and you’re done. If it runs late, I’ll call Yena, so don’t worry.”

“Then… make it quick.”

“Of course. I’m a busy man too.”

It wasn’t hard for Shin Haebeom at all. Tricking a naive kid to get the desired result was easy.

✶⋆.˚

Gi Woohee drank coffee loaded with syrup. It was so sweet it stung her tongue. She didn’t even like sweet things as a courtesy, but as Shin Haebeom said, nothing beat sugar when you were tired.

Sung Jaekyung, staring at a monitor, spoke.

“How long will he last? Ha Shinsung.”

“Who knows.”

Gi Woohee scratched the bridge of her nose.

“Private Jung doesn’t know yet, right? That he’s been caught.”

“He’ll find out soon enough.”

“Were they close?”

“Why are you curious about that?”

Sung Jaekyung’s expression was subtle.

“What?”

“I don’t really know. How to deal with Private Jung.”

“You’re close, aren’t you? It seemed that way.”

Sung Jaekyung gave an awkward smile. He admitted that despite his efforts, he felt an invisible wall with Ryujin.

“To be precise, small talk doesn’t work. We don’t have common interests. He says he doesn’t have hobbies either.”

“He’s a 21-year-old who was part of an anti-government group. He wouldn’t have had proper hobbies, and even if he was interested, he wasn’t in a position to indulge. Maybe someone like Ha Shinsung, a higher-up, but not him.”

“…….”

“They dress it up as sacrifices for the revolution or whatever, but in the end, it’s individual sacrifice.”

Looking at Gi Woohee’s profile, Sung Jaekyung said.

“So that’s why you’re… still alone, Lieutenant?”

“That’s cheeky.”

“Sorry.”

“There’s no such thing.”

Sung Jaekyung, head bowed, didn’t respond. Gi Woohee’s voice grew colder.

“What. Don’t want to let it go?”

“Sorry.”

“Let it go when I say so.”

Gi Woohee didn’t look at Sung Jaekyung. She only exhaled gray smoke toward the ceiling.

Ha Shinsung was unconscious. He’d lost a lot of blood, so he was in a dangerous state where shock could come at any moment, but he was still alive. That was what mattered.

A memory from the Paohuai days surfaced.

It was when Gi Woohee joined Shin Haebeom’s <Red Tiger>.

Shin Haebeom asked if she was prepared to become a villain. Gi Woohee asked what he meant. He asked again if she could give up everything she might have in the future for one goal.

Gi Woohee said yes. She’d already been sentenced to death once. All she had inside was anger and resignation. The only future she’d have was a life of suffering.

Gi Woohee didn’t want to live like that. A life leeching off her hateful father for a few coins to survive was meaningless. She hadn’t killed her mother, or the damned cult leader who ruined her, for that.

Gi Woohee blinked. It wasn’t an impulsive act. It was the grace of a god who pitied her wretched, dog-like life.

Shin Haebeom believed her. He was the only one who said what she saw that day wasn’t a hallucination or delusion. He told her the name of the god she’d met: Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war, born from Zeus’s head, who granted victory to many mythic heroes.

The door opened. Sung Jaekyung shot up. Gi Woohee, glancing back, froze in place.

“Why the faces?”

It was Shin Haebeom. And Jung Ryujin. Two people who shouldn’t be here stood side by side.

Gi Woohee hurriedly turned off the monitor and speakers. The sound of the blinds lowering seemed unusually loud today.

Shin Haebeom was in rare casual clothes. Gi Woohee guessed he’d come straight from a photoshoot. His skin was smoother than usual, like porcelain. No veins were visible on his cheeks.

“Didn’t know you’d come.”

“Got bored.”

He casually sat on the sofa. Ryujin stood still. Like a dog waiting for its master’s command, alone by the closed door.

Shin Haebeom beckoned to Ryujin.

“What are you doing? Sit.”

He patted the spot next to him.

Ryujin, eyes down, passed by Gi Woohee. Gi Woohee caught a faint sweet scent from him, like cookies and cake.

The smell of cosmetics emanated from Shin Haebeom, while Jung Ryujin smelled of desserts. Gi Woohee was bewildered. What’s with these two?

Shin Haebeom draped his arm over Ryujin’s shoulder, sitting about a foot away. Ryujin tried to shake it off, but he pulled him closer with force. Gi Woohee looked at Ryujin, whose lips were trembling.

“How is he? Looks good, right?”

“Sir?”

“I’m talking about Private Jung. He got a new haircut.”

“Oh, yes.”

Gi Woohee agreed.

“Much better. Looks like a soldier.”

“You’d think he’s an official Disciplinary Corps member.”

Ryujin shrank, avoiding Shin Haebeom’s hand on his nape.

“What do you think, Sergeant?”

“He looks great, sir!”

Sung Jaekyung stood with his arms glued to his sides, visibly tense. Gi Woohee, putting out her cigarette in the ashtray, looked at Shin Haebeom.

“You must be tired from this morning. Why not rest, sir?”

“Jung Ryujin got his driver’s license. Since the license is here, I’m filling out missing paperwork and getting his ID badge made.”

Sung Jaekyung shouted.

“Congratulations!”

“The one who deserves congrats is him, not me.”

Shin Haebeom laughed, tapping Ryujin’s head. Gi Woohee, standing a step back, observed Jung Ryujin, whom she hadn’t seen in a while.

He looked much better than before. His once-red hair was dyed black again, neatly cut, and dressed in tidy clothes, he resembled a fresh college student. But he was still tense. His body was stiff, like a mannequin.

Gi Woohee glanced at Shin Haebeom. His expression screamed he was having the time of his life. She could guess what he was thinking. The ID badge was an excuse.

“Why are we here?”

Ryujin said in a stiff voice. Shin Haebeom played coy.

“What’s wrong with this place?”

“…….”

“Relax your face. You’re making them tense too.”

Ryujin grabbed Shin Haebeom’s hand on his shoulder and pulled it off.

“Get your hoof off.”

Sung Jaekyung bowed his head, biting his lower lip to stifle a laugh. Gi Woohee struggled to keep a straight face. It was the calm before the storm.

“Come on, it’s been a while, so say hi. Don’t mind me.”

Shin Haebeom acted deliberately oblivious. Sung Jaekyung, truly clueless, took the bait. Smiling broadly, he approached Jung Ryujin and said something. It was a casual greeting.

Jung Ryujin gave a slight smile. He looked shy, touching his nape. He didn’t reject Sung Jaekyung’s touch. Even when he grabbed his shoulder, shook his wrist, or ruffled his hair, Ryujin didn’t push him away. Shin Haebeom watched, smoking.

Gi Woohee felt uneasy.

Shin Haebeom stood from the sofa and approached.

“Lieutenant Ki.”

“Yes, sir.”

“Raise the blinds.”

“Yes, sir.”

Gi Woohee felt no pity for Jung Ryujin. She’d read the <Siren> project from start to finish multiple times. She memorized it. She could transcribe it without a single mistake before disposing of it as Shin Haebeom ordered. After that process, Gi Woohee reached one conclusion.

Jung Ryujin wasn’t a candle but a wax stick. Not a comrade to go the distance with, but a consumable. Once he served his purpose, he’d vanish, leaving only traces.

In front of the one-way mirror, Gi Woohee held her breath. She was a soldier, and this was an order. Unless she cast off her uniform, she couldn’t refuse.

“Jung Ryujin!”

Shin Haebeom shouted.

“Once you’re done playing with the sergeant, say hi over there too.”

Gi Woohee observed Ryujin’s expression. It felt like a repeat of last time. But for Jung Ryujin, Park Jinah was someone to protect at all costs, while Ha Shinsung was a former superior. In hindsight, Ryujin’s ties weren’t fully severed. Though abandoned by the organization, he wasn’t abandoned by his boss. That was crucial.

Jung Ryujin slowly rose from the sofa. His long eyelashes fluttered busily. He was trying to process the situation.

Gi Woohee understood that silence. Some realities were clear but took time to comprehend and accept.

Ryujin blinked. Shin Haebeom’s voice felt distant.

“They can’t see you from there. So you don’t need to manage your expression.”

Ryujin glared at Shin Haebeom.

“Was this your plan from the start?”

“I’ll do anything to get what I want.”

“…….”

“Is it that shocking? I told you clearly, didn’t I?”

He had. Shin Haebeom had said he’d stake his entire career on executing Ha Shinsung. That they’d watch it from the front row.

Back then, Ryujin didn’t take it seriously. He thought Ha Shinsung would never get caught. That only lowlifes like him got tortured and threatened.

So, not for a single moment, did he worry. About Ha Shinsung.

The door opened and closed. Quick-witted Gi Woohee took Sung Jaekyung out.

Shin Haebeom stood behind Ryujin. He stretched his arms forward, enveloping the thin body. Burying his face in Ryujin’s nape, he murmured.

“Still attached to him?”

Ryujin couldn’t answer.

“I thought you weren’t that close.”

Shin Haebeom’s hand pressed Ryujin’s chest. He felt a fierce heartbeat.

“Get off. My heart’s gonna burst.”

“Let go.”

“He can’t see you anyway.”

“I don’t like it! It’s disgusting!”

“Still don’t want to meet Kwon Joohyuk?”

Nausea surged. Shin Haebeom had planned this from the start. He was testing him, weighing Ha Shinsung’s life against Ryujin’s pride. As if retaliating for Ryujin’s claim he wouldn’t become like him.

“Hm? Jung Ryujin. Answer me.”

“Ah!”

Ryujin shoved him hard. His forehead hit the one-way mirror.

“Stop it!”

“You smiled when the sergeant touched you, but when I do, you throw a fit. You can’t play favorites like that, Jung Ryujin.”

Shin Haebeom’s large hand pressed Ryujin’s head, while the other slipped into his pants. Fingers pushed aside his underwear, gripping his genitals. Ryujin shuddered, knowing it was futile no matter how much he was touched. Again and again…

“I said stop!”

Ryujin twisted his body.

“Stop it, please, just stop!”

“What, my hoof makes it gross?”

Shin Haebeom sneered. He licked Ryujin’s nape, pressing his body close. Ryujin writhed, trapped between Shin Haebeom and the mirror.

He jabbed Shin Haebeom’s side with his elbow. Instantly, his hair was grabbed.

“Agh!”

Shin Haebeom yanked Ryujin’s head, slamming it into the glass. The specially made mirror didn’t break, but the wall shook hard. Ha Shinsung, head bowed, twitched. He seemed to sense something.

“Even if you can’t see, you can feel things.”

“Let… go, let go!”

“But you really can’t get it up.”

Despite the mocking tone, Shin Haebeom caressed Ryujin’s genitals like handling a precious object.

He forced Ryujin’s legs apart. Ryujin resisted, twisting his hips, but Shin Haebeom’s knee struck the back of his knee.

“Ah!”

Shin Haebeom grabbed Ryujin’s hair as he lost balance, slamming him into the glass again.

“Argh!”

“There’s only one way to overcome trauma. Eliminate its cause.”

Shin Haebeom opened a Vaseline tub by the monitor. Gi Woohee used it to keep torture tools rust-free.

“This country’s laws don’t protect the weak. Medicine, therapy—they’re temporary. Those who say that stuff heals wounds aren’t understanding you; they’re pitying you.”

He thrust three fingers in at once. Ryujin’s hips trembled, his head dropping. Cold sweat rolled down his nape.

“It’d be nice if you could feel it too.”

“Stop… that bullshit!”

“You can’t do it with women, can you?”

Ryujin bit his lips. The pain felt like claws raking his insides. An agony he couldn’t get used to.

“The guy who made you like this.”

“Ugh…!”

“Hate him. Curse him. Imagine him burning in hell, suffering forever.”

Shin Haebeom whispered relentlessly.

“As long as he’s alive, you’ll keep suffering. To be free, you have to kill him. Kill them all. Not everyone can do that. But you… you’re insanely lucky. Because you met me.”

Because I’m designing you.

“Watch and learn. How I do it.”

Shin Haebeom’s fingers withdrew. Before Ryujin could exhale, a thick glans touched the greased entrance.

“Ah.”

“Then you can take everything from me.”

Ryujin clenched his teeth. He swallowed the sob rising in his throat. His palms, pressed against the glass, kept slipping. From sweat.

“Live for revenge.”

Shin Haebeom’s large hand covered Ryujin’s veiny, thin hand. He interlaced their fingers, pulling them up.

“Live for revenge. To kill those who toyed with you, used you. You have to live with that resolve.”

“You’re the same.”

“Yeah, including me.”

Shin Haebeom slowly pushed his penis in. Ryujin’s head tilted back. His breath fogged the glass.

“Ah, ah…! Ugh!”

“I’m afraid of you.”

Ryujin’s mind went blank. Only Shin Haebeom’s voice, piercing his eardrums, was clear.

“When I get old, I’ll weaken. You’ll become as strong as I am now. That thought makes me want to dispose of you right now. But, for now… I need you.”

Ryujin’s forehead hit the glass. Thud, thud. Shin Haebeom kept licking Ryujin’s ear while speaking.

“Grow up fast.”

“Ugh… ah, sob, ugh!”

“You have to take me down to survive.”

“Agh!”

He thrust in to the hilt. Shin Haebeom’s chest swelled. He buried himself deep inside Ryujin, tightly embracing the thin body. He couldn’t bear how lovable this skinny, stiff boy was, moaning in his arms.

He wanted to devour him from head to toe. He wanted to savor every finger, every toe, slowly and thoroughly, leaving nothing behind. He wanted to become one with him. He wanted to entrust his end to this boy. How selfish, how extraordinary a privilege it was to choose one’s death in this world!

He forcibly propped up the collapsing body. He grabbed his chin, turning his head. The face twisted in pain was pleasing. Shin Haebeom kissed the lips stained red with blood.

“Want to live?”

A glare full of hostility shot back.

“Then kill me.”

He kissed the trembling lips again, deeply. Tasting the metallic blood, Shin Haebeom smiled brightly.

“I think I’d be okay with you killing me.”

“Crazy bastard.”

“Let’s make a bet. Will I dispose of you, or will you take me down?”

“If you want to die, bite your tongue and croak alone! Why drag innocent people into your mess!”

“No use denying it. You’ll become like me.”

“Stop spouting nonsense.”

Shin Haebeom crouched on the floor. He gazed at Ryujin’s face, who had collapsed, breathing heavily.

“So pretty.”

Shin Haebeom liked Ryujin’s eyes right now. Hatred was the best motivator for setting a goal and charging toward it.

When he returned after an hour in the hallway, Jung Ryujin was asleep, head on Shin Haebeom’s lap. His thin legs stuck out over the armrest. His curled-up sleeping form looked exhausted.

Shin Haebeom looked up at the two stunned faces.

“He must’ve been tired.”

“Yes, sir.”

“Let him sleep here tonight.”

“Then to the duty room… I’ll carry him.”

Sung Jaekyung crouched, offering his back, but Shin Haebeom waved him off.

“I’ll head to the 12th floor soon.”

He nodded toward Ha Shinsung beyond the one-way mirror.

“Still got business to finish.”

Gi Woohee silently opened a cabinet. She took out a vinyl coat and offered it to Shin Haebeom, but he shook his head.

“Just going to talk.”

“Still…”

“Really, just talk. I’m tired too.”

She knew Shin Haebeom and Jin Chiwoo were busy with moving preparations. Gi Woohee bowed and stepped back.

“Yes, sir.”

Shin Haebeom looked down at Ryujin, whose head rested on his lap. He carefully lifted the small head, as if handling a precious object, and placed it on a cushion. Then he spoke to Sung Jaekyung.

“Sergeant, watch him.”

“Yes, sir.”

Shin Haebeom stretched and walked to the door. Just before turning the knob, he suddenly looked back at Sung Jaekyung, as if remembering something.

“If he wakes up and throws a fit, don’t touch him.”

“Understood, sir.”

“Even if he’s pretty, just look.”

He grinned as he said it.

Shin Haebeom pulled over a metal chair. The sound of it scraping the tile floor made Ha Shinsung, head bowed, look up. Thick bandages wrapped his thighs and hands.

“…….”

Shin Haebeom crossed his legs elegantly, lit a cigarette, and took a deep drag, filling his lungs with nicotine before exhaling sharply.

“Jung Ryujin tastes good.”

“You!”

“No matter how much I eat, it’s a delicacy. Never gets old.”

“You bastard, I’ll kill you!”

“Who’s cursing who? You tormented Jung Ryujin plenty yourself.”

“…….”

“I’ve never seen a visitation like that in my life. How do you cause a scene with a subordinate in prison? Over what, a lovers’ quarrel? Disgusting. Was it fun for you and your dad to toy with a 21-year-old kid?”

“Shut up.”

Shin Haebeom leaned forward.

“Did you three do it together?”

“Shut your mouth!”

Spit flew at Shin Haebeom’s face. He silently wiped his cheek with the back of his hand.

“I want to thank you.”

“What?”

Shin Haebeom blew cigarette smoke into Ha Shinsung’s face.

“Thanks.”

“You bastard, what’s your game now…”

“Kwon Joohyuk wants to see Jung Ryujin.”

Ha Shinsung’s eyes widened.

“He says it’s just to see his face, but if he likes him, things could change.”

Shin Haebeom spoke roughly.

“That impotent bastard, his lower half doesn’t work, so he’s got all sorts of hobbies. I’m not bluffing to scare you, so don’t doubt it. I’ve cleaned up after him enough to know.”

“Crazy, you crazy bastard!”

“Got it? You and I always understood each other.”

Shin Haebeom grinned widely.

“No way.”

Ha Shinsung shook his head.

“Don’t do that.”

“I climbed the ranks by picking the right side. So I have to mind the guy holding the reins.”

“How far are you going to torment him?!”

“You’re in no position to say that.”

“Don’t do it.”

Ha Shinsung’s voice turned pleading.

“What… what did he ever do to you? Why are you tormenting an innocent kid like that! Why!”

“You wouldn’t get it.”

Shin Haebeom said.

“For me, this isn’t anything special.”

His vision blurred with gray smoke. Ha Shinsung blinked desperately, glaring at Shin Haebeom’s smiling face.

“He needs to know what he’s got. To survive this harsh world, he needs to realize what weapon he can wield. Even the best gun is useless if you don’t know how to shoot.”

“Don’t. Don’t do it, Shin Haebeom. That’s too…”

“It’s only hard at first. You get used to it.”

Ha Shinsung shook his head. Ryujin could never get used to it. No matter how he thought about it. Kwon Joohyuk was practically the one who killed Ryu Yeonbi. The thought of Ryujin being thrown to such a man like prey made his blood boil backward.

Staring at Ha Shinsung, Shin Haebeom said.

“You really care about Jung Ryujin.”

“…….”

“But you’re no help to his life.”

“Shin Haebeom, please…”

Finally.

“I’m begging you.”

Ha Shinsung admitted defeat.

“Please. Don’t make that kid more miserable here.”

Shin Haebeom’s lips curled up. The more he learned about Jung Ryujin, the more fascinating he was. To make Ha Shinsung, who withstood all sorts of torture, submit. Was this that love he’d only heard about?

He felt both emptiness and satisfaction. The nearly 20 years of grinding his teeth thinking of the Ha family seemed to be nearing an end.

Thank you, Jung Ryujin. This is all thanks to you.

“Want to see something fun?”

Shin Haebeom stubbed out his cigarette on the metal desk and opened his laptop.

“Jung Ryujin was here too. Right in the seat you’re in now.”

The mouse clicked.

“I was half out of my mind back then.”

The monitor’s light illuminated Shin Haebeom’s face white. His sharp features and long eyelashes stood out. His pupils gleamed as he stared at a video file labeled “01.”

“He was really tight.”

Ha Shinsung roared. But bound to the chair, he couldn’t stand and collapsed in place. Shin Haebeom sneered at Ha Shinsung, writhing with his face on the floor.

“He clenched so tight… it felt amazing.”

Shin Haebeom righted the fallen chair. It was heavy enough to make him groan, but he made sure Ha Shinsung sat upright, facing forward.

He enlarged the screen and maxed out the speaker volume.

Ha Shinsung closed his eyes.

“Open them.”

Shin Haebeom whispered.

“Unless you want clips on your eyelids.”

He gripped Ha Shinsung’s head, forcing his face forward.

Ryujin’s screams, wails, and futile resistance. Watching the near-torturous act, Ha Shinsung seemed to lose his mind. His bitten lips tore, blood beading.

“This is what I do when I’m mad.”

Shin Haebeom’s fingers tightened.

“Now do you get it? Who you and your dad betrayed.”

Ha Shinsung despaired. He despaired at the power gap, watching Ryujin collapse and break.

“I’m looking forward to it. It’ll get more fun. You’ll see with your own eyes how Jung Ryujin changes, who he falls to hell with.”

“That kid… has nothing to do with our business.”

“You shouldn’t think that way.”

Shin Haebeom stared into Ha Shinsung’s bloodshot eyes.

“I suffered because of collective punishment. You should too. Look closely. Listen well. Jung Ryujin was raped because of you. And he will be again.”

“You’ll face divine punishment, you bastard!”

“Divine punishment?”

Laughter burst out.

“You think I’d fear something like that? No way. I made my peace long ago. The first seat on the hell train is reserved for me. But you know I get lonely. So I’ve been searching. For a soulmate to go to hell with me.”

Shin Haebeom’s finger pointed at the screen.

“That’s him.”

“Shin Haebeom!”

“I like Jung Ryujin. His face, his body, his resilience that gets back up even when struck. I want him to get stronger. Strong enough to take me down. I’ll board the hell train first. I’ll sit and wait… and he’ll come. We’ll greet each other, hug, kiss. And the train will depart… to the hell suited for people like us.”

Shin Haebeom’s eyes gleamed with madness as he spoke. A groan escaped Ha Shinsung’s parted lips. His bloodshot eyes were still fixed on the laptop monitor.

“What… what can I do… to satisfy you?”

Ha Shinsung’s red eyes looked up at Shin Haebeom. A suppressed voice.

“What you can do?”

Shin Haebeom sneered.

“Nothing.”

“…….”

“That’s why I said earlier. You’re no help to Jung Ryujin’s life, not one bit.”

“If I disappear? If I die, will you be satisfied?”

“Suicide, for Jung Ryujin’s sake?”

Shin Haebeom chuckled. Slamming the laptop shut, he said.

“Words are cheap.”

The door closed. Ha Shinsung was left alone, engulfed in despair.

✶⋆.˚

Kwon Sehyuk was in a great mood. He hadn’t taken his meds, yet his body felt light as a feather. Thinking of the rookie’s miserably crumpled face, he couldn’t stop laughing. Kwon Sehyuk looked out the car window and smiled softly.

He felt renewed gratitude for Shin Haebeom. Truly a man his uncle recognized.

He wanted to share this story with Ryujin’s older brother too.

Recalling that joy grows when shared, Kwon Sehyuk smiled. But he soon realized he didn’t have Ryujin’s contact info.

“Ah!”

Kwon Sehyuk leaned toward the driver’s seat.

“Pull over for a sec.”

“Sir?”

“What’s the matter?”

Im Chanyoung in the passenger seat turned around. Kwon Sehyuk pointed to an electronics store across the street.

“I need a new phone.”

Im Chanyoung didn’t ask what for. Kwon Sehyuk figured he’d report it to his uncle quietly. If his uncle asked, he’d say it was for carrying music separately. Whether he believed it or not didn’t matter. People that age usually don’t understand electronics.

He stepped in with a light gait. The staff’s expressions upon recognizing Kwon Sehyuk were vibrant—surprise, embarrassment, respect, admiration. Feeling the gazes on his profile, Kwon Sehyuk walked to the counter. It was still shy-making, but much better than before.

“Same model as this.”

Kwon Sehyuk showed his phone. The employee nodded and pulled out a box.

“There’s a new color available. Want to see it?”

“No, just the same one, please.”

Kwon Sehyuk activated the new number out of Im Chanyoung’s sight. It was in his name, of course.

The employee processed it swiftly without questions. Two identical phones, same model and color, sat side by side before Kwon Sehyuk. He smiled, satisfied.

Kwon Sehyuk asked about the day’s final schedule. Im Chanyoung said it was a dinner with former Minister of State Choi Seokjun.

“Is my uncle attending?”

“Yes, sir.”

“Ugh.”

Kwon Sehyuk thought he’d need a digestive. Still, he was in a good mood. He stared at the shopping bag next to him. Knowing Ryujin’s personality, he probably wouldn’t accept it easily. He might think it’s a waste of money. He might snap, asking if he’s being treated like a beggar.

But he wanted to do it.

Even if it wasn’t for the meds.

Kwon Sehyuk lowered the car window. The breeze tousled his brown hair. He stuck his head out and looked at the sky. A flock of birds flew between the clouds.

✶⋆.˚

Ryujin had a dream.

He was floundering in a giant mug. He thrashed his limbs with all his might, but he couldn’t swim or grab anything. He just sank endlessly.

His breath was stifled, his body heavy, his strength drained. Ryujin squeezed out his last bit of energy and struggled to open his eyes. The sky, seen from the dark depths, was dazzlingly clear.

“Jung Ryujin.”

A rough touch woke him. Shin Haebeom’s face was inches away.

“…….”

“Get it together. I left you alone, and you’re out cold.”

“…What time is it?”

Shin Haebeom showed his wristwatch.

“It’s night!”

Ryujin shot up from the sofa. Jin Chiwoo, typing furiously at his computer, jolted and poked his head out.

“Why’re you yelling all of a sudden?”

Ryujin glared at Shin Haebeom silently.

“You said you’d take me back… without being late.”

“I called Yena.”

“Why didn’t you keep your promise!”

“I said I’d call if it got late. I don’t recall swearing to escort you back no matter what.”

Shin Haebeom poked Ryujin’s forehead with his finger.

“This guy’s hilarious. Am I your chauffeur?”

Jin Chiwoo snickered as Ryujin stumbled back. Shin Haebeom sighed deeply.

“I carried you up here, washed you, dressed you, went through hell, and you don’t even know?”

Ryujin looked down at himself. He wore an oversized T-shirt and loose shorts. The clothes smelled faintly of fabric softener. Shin Haebeom plopped onto the opposite sofa, cracking his neck side to side.

“Sleep here tonight. I’ll take you back before sunrise.”

“…….”

“What?”

“Is Ha Shinsung dead?”

Silence fell. Only the radio Jin Chiwoo had on blared.

“He will be.”

Shin Haebeom turned and pointed to his left ear.

“I told you. I pay back what I get twice over to feel satisfied.”

“Even if I meet Kwon Joohyuk?”

“You trying to cut a deal with me now?”

Ryujin lowered his eyes, avoiding Shin Haebeom’s gaze.

“This guy’s really hilarious.”

“…….”

“Is there really such a thing as loyalty?”

“It’s not like that.”

“Not like that, my ass. With your naive, sucker personality, I expected as much…”

“It’s not. Listen to me.”

His voice was surprisingly firm. Shin Haebeom laughed, sinking into the sofa. He draped his arms over the backrest and tilted his head. Go on, bark. I’ll listen.

Ryujin, head bowed, spoke.

“It feels like he’s dying because of me.”

“So?”

“It’s weird! I… I didn’t do anything wrong. I didn’t tell him to do it, so why should I feel guilty for Ha Shinsung dying because of me!”

“So kind, Jung Ryujin.”

Shin Haebeom tilted his head back. Staring at the ceiling, he muttered.

“That’s your problem.”

“What?”

“Feeling guilt itself is messed up.”

“It’s natural for a human!”

“Why is that natural?”

The loud typing stopped. Jin Chiwoo had approached unnoticed. He sat on the middle sofa. Shin Haebeom looked at him.

“Chiwoo. What do you think guilt is?”

“Why would I know about that crap?”

“Exactly. That’s it.”

Shin Haebeom pointed at Jin Chiwoo with his thumb.

“Try to have that mindset.”

Ryujin was speechless, dumbfounded. Jin Chiwoo was the murderer who killed Gwak Hyeonwoo. An unforgivable sinner. Yet he shamelessly said he didn’t care about guilt right in front of Ryujin.

Ryujin clenched his fists. A hot lump boiled in his chest.

He recalled the night he spied on Kwon Sehyuk at Howollu. That night, thinking of his dead sister, Ryujin had trembled with injustice.

What’s the difference between the Kwon royals, who trample others’ lives and live carefree, and Jin Chiwoo, who kills with torture and feels no guilt?

“What’re you looking at?”

Jin Chiwoo’s expression turned menacing.

“You damn bitch! Why’re you staring at me like that?!”

Fear surged, but Ryujin lifted his chin defiantly and locked eyes with Jin Chiwoo.

Jin Chiwoo sneered.

“Look at this guy.”

He approached, looking ready to grab Ryujin’s collar and slam him to the floor.

“If you’ve got something to say, say it.”

“…….”

“Got a problem? Spit it out, you filthy bitch!”

“What’s got you so guilty?”

“What?”

“If your conscience is pricking you, just say so. Don’t act tough.”

Jin Chiwoo grabbed Ryujin’s collar from the sofa and threw him to the floor.

“This bitch is done today.”

A kick flew. Jin Chiwoo’s boot left an ugly mark on Ryujin’s back.

Ryujin gritted his teeth and sprang up. He swung his fist at Jin Chiwoo’s face. A thud rang out. It landed perfectly.

“You thought I’d just take it forever?!”

“Oh!”

Shin Haebeom didn’t intervene. Far from it, he cackled with an excited expression, even clapping.

Ryujin spat harshly.

“Should’ve finished you off back then.”

“Look at this bitch’s mouth.”

“Why are you alive, why! Why do people like you!”

Ryujin’s rage-filled voice struck the office ceiling.

“Hyeonwoo-hyung is dead, so why are you alive?!”

Jin Chiwoo’s lips twitched. The cheekbone Ryujin hit swelled red. Cracking his knuckles, he asked Shin Haebeom.

“Beom-ah. What should I do with this bitch?”

“Don’t touch his face. He’s gotta meet Kwon Joohyuk.”

“You damn bastards!”

They kept pushing.

Treating people like what…!

Ryujin clenched both fists. He knew willpower couldn’t overcome the gap in size and experience. Still, he wanted to fight. He didn’t want to be helplessly beaten anymore.

Jin Chiwoo taunted.

“Look at this bitch. For real?”

“You really feel nothing?”

“What?”

“Killing someone and feeling nothing?!”

“This crazy bitch’s head’s gone bad. Hey, you tiny bitch, you think I’m easy?”

Shin Haebeom burst out laughing.

“Guess so. He’s never been hit by you.”

He was pouring oil on a tense situation and tossing a lighter to spark it.

Jin Chiwoo’s carelessness was Ryujin’s only hope. He raised his arms in a defensive stance. Even if his arms broke, he’d make that bastard admit his wrong.

Jin Chiwoo charged like a bulldozer. He landed quick, precise blows to Ryujin’s shoulders and chest. The guard spared his vitals, but the raw strength difference was immense. Ryujin was pushed back to the wall in an instant.

He caught his breath, looking for an opening to counter. Jin Chiwoo didn’t bother defending. He didn’t think he needed to. Through the guard, Jin Chiwoo’s face looked like a cat cornering a mouse, amused and pleased. Ryujin’s throat burned.

“Jung Ryujin!”

Shin Haebeom shouted. The smile that had filled his face was gone.

“You keep pushing, thinking this is some back alley where thugs run wild!”

Jin Chiwoo clicked his tongue and lowered his fists. Ryujin slowly dropped his guard. His red, swollen arms trembled.

Shin Haebeom stood from the sofa and grabbed Jin Chiwoo’s shoulder.

“Chiwoo, go cool off.”

Jin Chiwoo’s face was flushed. Pointing at Ryujin, he said to Shin Haebeom.

“You need to re-educate this bitch. He can’t meet Kwon Joohyuk like that.”

“Sorry. It’s all my fault. Just bear with it once. You know he’s out of it because of Ha Shinsung.”