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#10

Kang I-won slowly opened his eyes and scanned the now-bright hospital room. It seemed he had fallen asleep in that brief moment.

“Cough…”

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Letting out a small cough, he slowly sat up, realizing his throat felt hoarse. What’s going on? When he touched his neck, a dull pain surged, as though someone was pressing hard on a bruise.

Unable to hide his confusion, Kang I-won headed straight to the bathroom. The mirror greeted him as soon as he opened the door. He let out a low sound as he saw his reflection.

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“Hmm…”

On his neck, the marks from impulsively choking himself earlier that dawn were still vividly etched. The bruises, blotchy and discolored in the shape of handprints, stood out starkly against his pale skin. Kang I-won gently stroked his still-throbbing neck.

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…This is worse than I expected.

Even after several hours, the remaining wounds gave him an odd sensation. The loss of his powers, which hadn’t felt real until now, suddenly became strikingly clear.

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It’s really gone now. Almost completely. A harsh wave of reality hit him, breaking the denial he had clung to until now.

Returning to the hospital room, Kang I-won sat on the edge of the bed, lost in thought.

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More than that, what do I do about this?

He couldn’t heal it. There was nothing to cover it with. Even if he tried to hide it, it was bound to draw suspicion.

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He didn’t care what others thought. Whatever anyone made of the marks on his neck wasn’t Kang I-won’s concern.

But Heo Do-gyeong was the problem. Heo Do-gyeong had already seen him try to strangle himself before. If he noticed these marks on top of that, there was no telling how he might react.

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At the thought, Heo Do-gyeong’s face came to mind—a face twisted with worry. Now that he thought about it, it wasn’t the first time Heo Do-gyeong had shown such an expression.

I’ve shown him such a pitiful side of me so many times. The realization came suddenly, bringing with it an inexplicable wave of guilt.

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And yet, Kang I-won’s chest tingled at the unwavering concern Heo Do-gyeong continued to show for him. The sensation didn’t last long, though; Heo Do-gyeong’s cold voice echoed sharply in his mind, shattering that fleeting warmth.

“Whether Kang I-won dies or not, I won’t care anymore. I’m tired of it. I’m sick of worrying every time he gets hurt. So do whatever you want.”

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The tingling warmth in his chest turned ice cold. Kang I-won let out a short sigh, mocking his own futile worries.

Heo Do-gyeong didn’t care anymore whether Kang I-won lived or died. He had said so himself, directly to Kang I-won’s face, and his actions seemed to back it up. There was no reason to worry like this anymore. That thought left Kang I-won feeling drained, his shoulders slumping under the weight of it.

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After checking his condition and returning to his hospital room, Kang I-won collapsed onto the bed, his body limp.

But… he guided me to save my life. Would someone who claims not to care go that far? His subdued mood rose briefly before sinking again, the cycle repeating endlessly. His mind was a storm of tangled thoughts.

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At that moment, the door quietly creaked open. Is it the team leader? Kang I-won, not expecting much, turned his head slightly to look at the door.

To his surprise, it wasn’t the team leader. It was Heo Do-gyeong who walked in. Startled, Kang I-won quickly straightened up. What’s Heo Do-gyeong doing here?

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Heo Do-gyeong froze when he saw Kang I-won awake, his eyes widening in shock. His gaze quickly dropped to Kang I-won’s neck, and the horror in his expression deepened.

“What the hell…”

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Heo Do-gyeong muttered a curse under his breath, his face hardening with anger. His eyes stayed fixed on Kang I-won’s neck, unrelenting and intense. Feeling the weight of that gaze, Kang I-won instinctively raised a hand to cover his neck.

However, the movement seemed to Heo Do-gyeong like Kang I-won was about to choke himself again. His face drained of color as he rushed over, grabbing Kang I-won’s hands tightly to stop him from doing anything reckless.

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“What do you think you’re doing?”

Heo Do-gyeong’s voice was rough, as if it scratched against his throat, his teeth gritted as he barely restrained his anger. Although he appeared furious, his eyes betrayed an overwhelming worry he couldn’t suppress.

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Seeing that expression, Kang I-won blinked, staring at the man before him.

He said he wouldn’t care whether I lived or died anymore…

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Yet here he was, worrying about Kang I-won again. The frozen ache in Kang I-won’s chest melted in an instant, leaving behind a faint, ticklish warmth. After hesitating, he averted his gaze and murmured.

“You said you wouldn’t care anymore… whether I lived or died.”

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“I quit. Don’t change the subject. What were you trying to do just now?”

“I wasn’t doing anything,” Kang I-won replied in his hoarse voice.

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Heo Do-gyeong’s tone sharpened as he enunciated each word, as if biting off every syllable.

“Bullshit. Nothing? Then what’s this? How do you explain these marks?”

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“This… I must’ve done it in my sleep,” Kang I-won stammered, blurting out an excuse even a dog wouldn’t believe.

Heo Do-gyeong let out a disbelieving laugh, but his expression remained cold and stern.

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“In your sleep? You’re saying this happened in your sleep? Then what’s with your hand? Why is it heading for your neck again?”

“I was trying to cover it,” Kang I-won answered.

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“Don’t lie to me.”

Distrust was thick in Heo Do-gyeong’s voice. But this time, Kang I-won was telling the truth and couldn’t help but feel wronged. He replied with a hint of frustration.

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“I mean it.”

Heo Do-gyeong stared at him intently, still skeptical. Finally, he asked in a voice laced with doubt, “You weren’t trying to strangle yourself again, were you?”

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“Do you think I’m crazy enough to do that in front of you, Heo Do-gyeong?” Kang I-won snapped back.

Despite his repeated assurances, mistrust lingered in Heo Do-gyeong’s eyes. Letting out a deep sigh, he muttered, “I can’t leave you alone, can I? How does this happen in just one day while I step away?”

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It had only been one night. Heo Do-gyeong had stayed by Kang I-won’s side, waiting and waiting for him to wake up, only to step away for a single night. And in that short time, this happened. He had felt a strange, gnawing sense of unease, and now he knew why.

Clicking his tongue softly, Heo Do-gyeong muttered under his breath, “You’ve really outdone yourself this time.”

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“…”

Kang I-won stayed silent, unable to come up with an excuse in the face of Heo Do-gyeong’s tone, which sounded more pained than angry.

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Heo Do-gyeong’s gaze refused to leave the bruises on Kang I-won’s neck. His brows furrowed deeply, as if he were the one feeling the pain.

Kang I-won’s chest churned wildly, a storm of emotions that didn’t feel like his own surging through him. There was no clear way to define Heo Do-gyeong’s feelings—they were too tangled and overlapping.

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But even the faintest trace of them made it clear how deeply those emotions ran. That overwhelming concern seeped into Kang I-won’s heart, filling it completely.

Thanks to the tingling sensation running through his heart, Kang I-won couldn’t tell if the emotions were his or Heo Do-gyeong’s.

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As he struggled to push away the overwhelming surge of Heo Do-gyeong’s feelings, Kang I-won asked, “You’re not surprised.”

“Doesn’t it look like I’m already plenty shocked? And stop talking. Your voice is hoarse. Why are you making it worse?”

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Heo Do-gyeong snapped irritably. Kang I-won shook his head and opened his mouth again.

“It just looks bad, but I’m fine. What surprises me more is that you’re not shocked about the bruises.”

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The bruises on his neck clearly weren’t fresh, something even a quick glance could reveal. While Heo Do-gyeong might not have realized it immediately when he first opened the door, after staring at Kang I-won’s neck for a while, he must’ve understood.

The fact that bruises lingered and spread on the neck of Kang I-won, a regenerative Esper, could only mean one thing.

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“In just one day… my powers have almost completely disappeared.”

Kang I-won’s words brought a brief silence from Heo Do-gyeong. Then came the calm reply.

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“I already suspected. I was right there when it happened.”

Heo Do-gyeong had been the closest witness when Kang I-won’s fading powers suddenly surged to explosive levels, only to spiral out of control. He was the only one who had seen Kang I-won’s rampage firsthand and had repeatedly connected with his wavelengths to calm him down.

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That’s why he could suspect it—and stay composed.

Hearing those words, Kang I-won realized Heo Do-gyeong wasn’t lying. He could tell from the steady calm radiating from him. But when Kang I-won found himself unconsciously checking Heo Do-gyeong’s emotions, he flinched in surprise.

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I didn’t mean to do that.

Trying to hide his embarrassment, Kang I-won struggled again to block out the flow of Heo Do-gyeong’s emotions.

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Once he finally succeeded in cutting off the feelings, Kang I-won hesitated, then lifted his head slightly to glance at Heo Do-gyeong.

Should I say it now? I’ve already decided to tell him, haven’t I?

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Even if Heo Do-gyeong finds it unpleasant, it doesn’t matter. The disappearance of my powers also means the mark has vanished, and by looking at my condition, it’s clear that the mark wouldn’t have lasted much longer anyway. So it’s fine. Just say it.

This time, don’t put it off.

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“…I have something to say.”

“You keep talking even when I tell you not to. Esper Kang I-won, do you realize how bad you are at following instructions?”

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“Yes.”

Even so, Kang I-won knew he had to say it. His resolute tone made Heo Do-gyeong sigh.

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“Then take your medicine first. Talk afterward. Wait here a moment—I’ll get it. And don’t you dare try anything reckless while I’m gone.”

Heo Do-gyeong, still unable to fully trust Kang I-won, warned him before reluctantly letting go of his hand after a moment’s hesitation.

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Before leaving, he glanced back several times, and after Heo Do-gyeong was out of the room, Kang I-won stayed behind, trying to choose the right words.

Countless phrases swirled endlessly in his mind. While he mulled over them, Heo Do-gyeong returned to the room quicker than expected, carrying lukewarm water for the medicine and warm tea for Kang I-won’s throat.

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Sitting on the bed, Kang I-won swallowed the medicine while Heo Do-gyeong took a seat in the chair beside him. After watching him take the medicine, Heo Do-gyeong handed over the warm mug.

“Drink this too, then talk.”

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Kang I-won nodded obediently and tilted the mug. The warmth of the tea soothed his throat as it traveled down, offering a faint sense of relief.

As he emptied about half the mug, Heo Do-gyeong broke the silence first.

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“You already told me your powers are fading. Is there more? What now? Why are you making me so anxious?”

When it came time to speak, Kang I-won’s mouth felt unbearably dry. Yet, no interruptions came—no sudden calls from his device, no unexpected visitors. The world seemed unnervingly quiet, as if urging him to finally confess.

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With his eyes closed, Kang I-won murmured as if confessing a sin.

“I made a mark.”

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“…What?”

Caught completely off guard by Kang I-won’s words, Heo Do-gyeong let out a dumbfounded sound. He stared blankly at Kang I-won, as if unable to comprehend, prompting Kang I-won to speak again.

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“I… made a mark. On you, Guide Heo Do-gyeong. Unilaterally.”

Each word was forced out, as if wringing water from a dry towel. After finishing his confession, Kang I-won cautiously looked at Heo Do-gyeong.

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Heo Do-gyeong’s face was contorted, his expression twisted. Seeing that, Kang I-won’s own expression faltered. He had expected this reaction, but it still hurt.

“What the hell, why?!”

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Heo Do-gyeong’s near-scream cut through Kang I-won’s spiraling thoughts. His frustrated and aggrieved tone left Kang I-won staring blankly at him, unable to do anything but repeat.

“…What?”

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“If it’s a unilateral mark, shouldn’t I be the one marking you? Why does it have to be you—someone who doesn’t even need it—marking me?”

Even without sensing his emotions, Kang I-won could feel the regret and frustration in every word Heo Do-gyeong spoke.

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This reaction was completely unexpected. Kang I-won blinked slowly in confusion, while Heo Do-gyeong muttered under his breath, his brows furrowing deeply.

“This… this feels wrong somehow.”

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After silently pondering for a moment, Heo Do-gyeong spoke up again.

“Should we try again?”

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“…What?”

“If we do it again, I might be able to mark you this time. How about it? It’s just guiding, after all. I’ll make sure to do a better job this time. So… what do you think?”

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His tone was overly soft, almost coaxing, as if trying to persuade Kang I-won. Flustered, Kang I-won shook his head vigorously.

“No, no way. I don’t want to.”

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“Why not? Didn’t you say it felt good before?”

“Well, yes, but—”

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The honest admission slipped out unintentionally, and Heo Do-gyeong’s cheeks turned a faint shade of red. Kang I-won, horrified, slapped a hand over his mouth. What the hell am I saying? He quickly scrambled to refuse again.

“No, I don’t want to. I won’t do it.”

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More than anything, the idea that Heo Do-gyeong might mark him in return was too risky to consider. He had no intention of going through with it again.

Kang I-won’s repeated refusals left Heo Do-gyeong pouting, his face full of dissatisfaction.

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“Why not? It’s so unfair that I didn’t get to feel anything!”

“I mean, it’s not like I did it because I wanted to…”

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Kang I-won muttered in frustration, responding to Heo Do-gyeong’s words.

Even as he mumbled, Kang I-won stared at Heo Do-gyeong. The guide’s concern for him had completely shifted back to his previous, caring demeanor, as though his cold and detached attitude had never existed.

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Though Heo Do-gyeong’s sudden shifts in behavior left him baffled, Kang I-won felt strangely at ease seeing him act like his old self again. On top of that, contrary to his expectations, Heo Do-gyeong didn’t seem bothered by the unilateral mark at all.

Instead, the only thing Kang I-won could sense from him was genuine disappointment that he hadn’t been able to mark Kang I-won in return. Even without explicitly sensing his emotions, it was obvious.

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Heo Do-gyeong had always spoken with sincerity, yet Kang I-won had always doubted him. Even when Heo Do-gyeong confessed his feelings, Kang I-won had denied them. But now, faintly sensing the depth of his emotions, Kang I-won could no longer ignore them.

The steady flow of Heo Do-gyeong’s genuine feelings made Kang I-won’s heart tingle uncontrollably. He didn’t know why it felt so ticklish, only that it was driving him mad, to the point where he wanted to tear open his chest and scratch at his heart to make it stop.

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Instead, Kang I-won bit down on the soft flesh inside his cheek, trying to distract himself. The sharp sting in his mouth seemed to help dull the maddening tickle just a bit.

Still gnawing at the inside of his cheek, Kang I-won spoke again.

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“And even if you did manage to make a mark, it’d be pointless. You probably know this, but…”

“I do. A mark connects to the Esper’s wavelengths, doesn’t it? If your powers disappear completely, the mark will break, too.”

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As expected of a diligent guide, Heo Do-gyeong gave the correct answer. Kang I-won blinked, startled, and asked, “You know that, and yet you still want to do it?”

“What’s wrong with that? Even if it’s only for a moment, I want to feel connected to Esper Kang I-won.”

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Heo Do-gyeong’s blunt response left Kang I-won’s face flushing bright red.

“What kind of thing is that to say?!”

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“Why? It’s not like I said anything inappropriate.”

The way Heo Do-gyeong said such flustering words so casually was almost unbelievable. He continued speaking without missing a beat.

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“Well, wanting to make a mark is just my selfish desire. Honestly, it’s fine if we don’t.”

Suddenly? After being so insistent about making a mark, why was he now pretending he didn’t care? The abrupt shift made Kang I-won feel inexplicably choked up. Whether Heo Do-gyeong was aware of this or not, he continued speaking.

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“Forget about marks, Espers, and Guides—all of it. I won’t say anything else. For you, Kang I-won, I think this is the better way. I’ve been acting too foolishly.”

What? Kang I-won stared at him blankly, trying to process what he meant. Then, in a steady, serious voice, Heo Do-gyeong revealed his heart.

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“I like you.”

At first, Kang I-won didn’t register the words. The realization came a moment later, and his ears grew hot as he understood that Heo Do-gyeong had just confessed to him.

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It wasn’t the first time he’d heard this, yet it felt as fresh and new as if it were. His heart pounded loudly in his chest, thump, thump, so much that he couldn’t tell whether it was his own heartbeat or Heo Do-gyeong’s.

“I like you. I want to take a step further in this relationship—not as an Esper and Guide, but as two people. I want to be close to you, Kang I-won. For the record, I also like the regular, powerless Kang I-won. I’ll protect you instead.”

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As if even the thought made him happy, Heo Do-gyeong let out a soft laugh and took Kang I-won’s free hand, the one not holding the mug. Gently, he guided it to rest on his chest.

Through the fabric of his clothes, Kang I-won could feel the rapid, almost frantic beating of Heo Do-gyeong’s heart. Without any barriers, Heo Do-gyeong’s emotions spilled over, flowing directly into Kang I-won. That faint affection was so clear that Kang I-won couldn’t possibly deny it.

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Through the unwavering gaze that looked only at him, through the words of confession spilling from Heo Do-gyeong’s lips, through the pulse of his heart felt beneath Kang I-won’s palm, and even through the faint connection left by the mark—everything about Heo Do-gyeong screamed his love for Kang I-won.

As Kang I-won felt his face grow hotter and hotter, he could swear it might actually explode from the overwhelming heat.

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In a low, gentle voice, Heo Do-gyeong spoke again, his tone calm yet filled with sincerity.

“Can you feel it? That I love you—not some misunderstanding or mistake, but my genuine feelings.”

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He could feel it. Through every sense, through every word and action, Kang I-won could clearly feel the depth of Heo Do-gyeong’s emotions. It wasn’t an illusion. It was real. It was undeniable.

The weight of those emotions pressed down on Kang I-won, making it hard to breathe. Slowly, hesitantly, he opened his mouth. His voice, slightly hoarse and trembling, sounded pitifully weak.

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“…So, what exactly do you want to do with me?”

“Well, obviously, I’m asking you to date me,” Heo Do-gyeong replied, as if it were the simplest thing in the world.

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Kang I-won’s emotions surged wildly, like a rollercoaster rushing from ecstatic highs to crushing lows. His heart swelled with a strange fullness, only to plummet as if it were being dragged into the depths. It felt as though he was being tossed between heaven and hell in an instant.

The intensity of Heo Do-gyeong’s feelings directed at him made it hard to breathe. Why me? The question spun endlessly in his mind until his thoughts became so tangled they turned blank.

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“…Date me?” Kang I-won repeated, as if trying to confirm he hadn’t misheard.

“Yes,” Heo Do-gyeong replied firmly, despite the pitiful tone of Kang I-won’s voice.

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“You mean, you… and me?” Kang I-won asked again, his disbelief evident.

“Who else would it be?”

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“Why?”

The question, so obvious and yet so senseless, spilled from Kang I-won’s lips.

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This time, instead of offering a cliché response like because I like you, Heo Do-gyeong voiced the desire rooted deep in his heart. It was a desire given form, solidified into words.

“Because I want to be the one and only special person in your life.”

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At that, Kang I-won’s face flushed bright red. Watching him, Heo Do-gyeong laughed softly.

Yes, he wanted to be the one. Heo Do-gyeong wanted to be the most important person in Kang I-won’s life—more important than anyone else. He wanted Kang I-won to stay by his side, to live with him, to choose him above all others.

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He wanted to become a presence more significant than the dead brother, more precious than the sole friend—a singular, irreplaceable figure to Kang I-won.

Why Kang I-won? He couldn’t explain it. Love doesn’t need a reason, does it?

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At some point, his gaze had lingered on Kang I-won, unable to turn away. His thoughts became entangled with him, his absence unbearable, his image constantly surfacing in his mind. Slowly, gradually, Heo Do-gyeong had been soaked in feelings for Kang I-won until they filled him to the brim, leaving no way out.

Heo Do-gyeong was someone who always got what he wanted. He was relentless, resourceful, and stubborn, and he had never failed to claim what he desired.

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And this time, he desired Kang I-won.

“…I’m sorry,” Kang I-won murmured, breaking the silence.

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No matter how many times Kang I-won rejected him, it didn’t bother Heo Do-gyeong. He was confident—certain, even—that Kang I-won liked him back. All he needed was time, and eventually, he knew he’d get what he wanted.

Even if faced with refusal after refusal, his unwavering, relentless love only grew stronger. If such stubborn devotion were genetic, he must have inherited more from his mother than his father.

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A faint, smooth smile curved on Heo Do-gyeong’s lips.

“It’s fine. I’ll just do things my way from now on.”

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His words left Kang I-won unable to hide his disbelief. The sheer audacity of someone so used to having his way pretending he never had.

“Now stop talking and get some rest,” Heo Do-gyeong said, gently pushing Kang I-won back onto the bed. Kang I-won didn’t resist, lying down without complaint, but he turned his head to the side.

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At this point, it didn’t matter how much Heo Do-gyeong tried to take control. Kang I-won was on the verge of stepping down from his position as an Esper. As such, no matter how assertive Heo Do-gyeong became, it wouldn’t have much of an impact on him.

But what exactly did he mean by doing things his way? Kang I-won glanced at Heo Do-gyeong, who had taken a seat in the chair beside the bed. Despite his earlier suggestion to rest, Heo Do-gyeong didn’t show any sign of leaving.

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“…Aren’t you going?” Kang I-won asked.

To his surprise, Heo Do-gyeong responded in a tone as if Kang I-won had just said something absurd.

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“After what you did to yourself in one night, do you really think I’m going to leave you alone?”

“You told me to rest.”

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“Yes, so rest. I won’t bother you. Just sleep.”

“It’s uncomfortable with you sitting there. You should go back. Don’t you have better things to do than sit here since morning?”

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“I’ll handle my own schedule. Don’t worry about it. If you’re uncomfortable, I can pull the curtain for you.”

He didn’t say he’d leave. Instead, Heo Do-gyeong stood and pulled the curtain around the bed. But as soon as the curtain blocked his view, Kang I-won was reminded of the cold, distant Heo Do-gyeong from that night. Without thinking, he reached out and pulled the curtain open again.

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Heo Do-gyeong tilted his head, puzzled.

“What? If you’re uncomfortable, I can just leave it closed.”

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“…No, it’s just… it feels stuffy.”

Without another word, Heo Do-gyeong sat back down, skimming through documents on his tablet. Meanwhile, Kang I-won stared blankly at the ceiling, his thoughts swirling.

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Why am I lying here like this?

Aside from the bruises from that early morning incident, his body was fine. There was no real reason for him to be lying around like this. There was so much to do—he needed to leave the team, start the process for a leave of absence…

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This current state of rest was a luxury he couldn’t afford.

The chain of thoughts led Kang I-won to recall the injury on Heo Do-gyeong’s side. At the time, it had been such a chaotic situation that he’d let it go, chalking it up to the circumstances. But now that he thought about it, there was nothing normal about it.

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When he’d regained consciousness, there was no one around. Even if someone had been there, how could they have healed it so quickly? Heo Do-gyeong wasn’t a regeneration-type Esper like Kang I-won, after all.

“…By the way, what about your injury? I saw that you were fine, but… how did it heal?”

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Though his own regeneration seemed to have resumed slowly, his voice was still hoarse, though slightly better than before. Heo Do-gyeong let out an exasperated sigh.

“I told you to stop talking.”

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“I’m fine. Honestly, I don’t even need to be lying down like this.”

“Just stay down for a while longer.”

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Heo Do-gyeong gently pressed Kang I-won’s chest, stopping him from sitting up. He seemed lost in thought for a moment before running a hand along his lips and asking, “How much do you remember? And don’t talk. Use your device instead. If it’s inconvenient, do you want me to lend you my smartphone?”

Kang I-won shook his head, sorting through his memories.

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He remembered overexerting himself to protect Heo Do-gyeong, almost to the point of losing control. He remembered falling into the ravine. After that, though, things got hazy. His body had felt like a mess inside, and then… nothing.

The last clear image in his mind was of Heo Do-gyeong looking down at him from above. That memory alone made his breath hitch, and he forced himself to calm down, clamping his mouth shut.

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After listening to Kang I-won’s fragmented recollection, Heo Do-gyeong fell silent, lost in thought. When he finally spoke, his voice was calm and steady as usual.

“There’s a rumor going around.”

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“A rumor?” Kang I-won asked.

Heo Do-gyeong answered in a nonchalant tone.

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“They’re saying a healing-type Esper has appeared. I think I might have been helped by that Esper.”

The natural ease in his voice and the steady ripple of his emotions made it impossible for Kang I-won to detect any falsehood. Surprised, he asked, “A… healing-type Esper?”

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Heo Do-gyeong frowned and snapped, “I told you to stop talking.”

Kang I-won quickly typed on his device instead. A healing-type Esper?

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In this world, countless abilities existed, but healing was the one power that didn’t. No matter how desperately people yearned for it, the gods seemed to have deemed it unworthy of existence. That unattainability only made it more coveted, more desperately desired.

He stared at Heo Do-gyeong, his mind swirling with questions. Could it be true? A healing-type Esper, in a world where none were supposed to exist?

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The sudden appearance of such a power—right here, no less—left Kang I-won utterly dumbfounded. What on earth had happened in the brief period when he’d lost consciousness?

Still shocked by the emergence of a healing ability, Kang I-won caught onto something strange in Heo Do-gyeong’s words.

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“They say it appeared… It seems… I think.”

Everything Heo Do-gyeong said was speculative. If he had truly been treated by a healing Esper, wouldn’t he have seen them directly? Why was his account so vague?

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“No one’s actually seen this healing Esper in person,” Heo Do-gyeong said casually, lying through his teeth. “Not me, or anyone else.”

“…What?”

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Is that even possible? Kang I-won blinked in confusion and asked again.

“But surely you saw them, right? Didn’t they personally heal your wounds?”

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“Tsk. I told you to use this,” Heo Do-gyeong replied, tapping first his neck and then the device.

Sighing, Kang I-won typed his question into the device. Only then did Heo Do-gyeong finally offer an explanation.

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“Some kind of formless energy suddenly swept through, like a gust of wind, and then… my wounds were healed. Apparently, it saved a lot of lives—there were almost no fatalities, and even the injured recovered quickly. The energy spread unnecessarily far, blanketing the entire mountain.”

His last words were laced with displeasure, which left Kang I-won baffled. Unnecessary? Surely it was a good thing that there were so few casualties and injuries. Didn’t Heo Do-gyeong himself benefit from this Esper’s intervention?

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Kang I-won fell silent, deep in thought. If the energy was powerful enough to cover an entire mountain and heal wounds in an instant, it was obvious—this had to be an S-rank Esper. Not only was this the world’s first healing ability, but its rank was astronomically high.

“Who could it possibly be?”

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Though Kang I-won usually had little interest in others, the first-ever healing Esper piqued his curiosity. In response, Heo Do-gyeong answered indifferently, “Who knows.”

“You’re not curious? This person saved your life, after all.”

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“Not at all.”

Heo Do-gyeong’s answer was so cold and resolute that it caught Kang I-won off guard.

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“So stop thinking about it, too. Your questions are answered. Now, just shut up and rest,” Heo Do-gyeong said, refocusing on his tablet.

Despite a few more attempts to ask questions, Kang I-won received no answers. Frustrated, he eventually closed his eyes. Though he wasn’t tired, there wasn’t much else to do.

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As silence settled over the room, Heo Do-gyeong’s gaze drifted from his tablet to Kang I-won, who lay quietly with his eyes closed.

A healing Esper? No, they’ll never find one, no matter how long they look.

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The truth was simple: it hadn’t been a healing power but rather the uncontrolled rampage of a regeneration Esper.

The only person who knew the truth was Heo Do-gyeong himself. And with even Kang I-won oblivious to the reality, he decided to keep it that way.

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This troublesome truth was a secret he would take to his grave. There was no reason for even the person involved—Kang I-won—to know.

Who would believe him if he spoke of it? And even if they did, it would only lead to complications. Misuse of the information was a very real risk, one that could spiral into dangerous outcomes.

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And so, Heo Do-gyeong swallowed the secret whole, vowing to keep it buried deep within himself.

* * *

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A few days before Kang I-won woke up, the center was in complete chaos following the resolution of the incident.

The fact that the wave had occurred with minimal damage was enough to stir up a commotion, but there was an even bigger topic dominating the discussions: the mysterious, intangible energy that had spread like a blanket over the mountain, healing only allies. No one knew where it had originated.

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Most assumed that a healing-type Esper had finally emerged. Judging by the scope and power of the ability, they unanimously agreed it must be an S-rank Esper. Attention across the board turned to this unprecedented development—the world’s first and only healing Esper.

However, despite the buzz and anticipation, no one stepped forward to claim ownership of the power.

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This led to an uproar, with many clamoring to identify the owner of the ability. Speculations arose that the S-rank healing Esper was deliberately hiding their power. As a result, all participants at the scene—Espers and Guides alike—were required to undergo wavelength testing. No exceptions were made, not even for civilians.

This investigation had been ongoing for days, continuing even after Kang I-won regained consciousness. When Kang I-won, having spent several more hours in bed, finally made his way to the examination room, he was greeted by a long line of people waiting their turn. He frowned and turned to Heo Do-gyeong, who had been trailing behind him.

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“Why are there so many people?”

“I told you earlier,” Heo Do-gyeong replied. “They think a healing Esper might’ve appeared. The higher-ups are desperate to figure out who it is, so they issued a directive for every Esper and Guide who was at the scene to undergo a wavelength test. It’s been like this for days.”

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“…Whoever it is, I hope they show up soon,” Kang I-won muttered, sighing deeply.

Heo Do-gyeong, who had been watching him intently, asked, “What will you do after the test?”

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“I’ll go see the team leader. I can’t stay on the team,” Kang I-won replied firmly.

Hearing this, Heo Do-gyeong hesitated, seemingly deliberating something, before finally speaking.

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“I have something urgent to take care of, so I’ll step away for a bit. Don’t try anything reckless. I’ll check on you later.”

Without waiting for a reply, Heo Do-gyeong walked off, leaving Kang I-won to face the bustling examination room alone.

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Still harboring distrust toward Kang I-won, Heo Do-gyeong had left after delivering his warning. Kang I-won watched his retreating figure with a lingering gaze.

Once he left the team, his connection with Heo Do-gyeong would likely vanish as well. This might even be the last time they saw each other. The thought planted regret in his heart, and that regret kept pulling his gaze toward the direction Heo Do-gyeong had gone. Even after he disappeared from view, Kang I-won found it hard to look away. Shaking himself out of it, he finally joined the long line for the test.

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The wavelength test, which would normally have been quick, took far longer than expected. By the time it was over, Kang I-won emerged from the crowd of Espers with an exhausted expression.

The subsequent conversation with Team Leader Han Kang-jin was short. Just the lingering bruises on his neck were enough for Han Kang-jin to declare him unfit for duty.

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Though the bruises clearly indicated self-inflicted harm, Han Kang-jin didn’t press for details, much to Kang I-won’s relief. Instead, he only carefully asked if Kang I-won needed counseling, which Kang I-won politely declined.

Once deemed unfit for duty, things moved quickly.

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While Kang I-won’s powers weren’t entirely gone yet, the accumulated unused leave he’d accrued allowed them to process his status as vacation time for now. However, he had to leave Team 5—an inevitable decision, as someone effectively a civilian couldn’t remain on an active Esper team.

He submitted his resignation in advance, to be processed once his abilities fully disappeared. At that point, he’d officially retire and return to civilian status.

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Returning his weapon marked the end of his immediate tasks, leaving only the matter of clearing out his desk.

Despite having spent about three years in the team, it took less than ten minutes to pack up. It was a common trait among Espers to keep personal belongings to a minimum, given how frequently they moved between branches.

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By the time Kang I-won was done, the bruises on his neck had almost completely faded. Yet, it felt strange—it had taken all day for such minor marks to disappear.

With everything packed, all that was left was to go home. Yet, an inexplicable weight seemed to hold him back, keeping him rooted in place. While he hesitated, a message from Han Kang-jin arrived.

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[Han Kang-jin, Team Leader]: I-won, are you busy tonight?
[Me]: No.
[Han Kang-jin, Team Leader]: Then let’s have dinner. The team thinks we should at least throw you a farewell party.

After a moment of deliberation, Kang I-won agreed.

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[Me]: Okay.

That evening, a modest farewell party was held for Kang I-won. The attendees consisted solely of the members of Team 5. Unsurprisingly—or perhaps disappointingly—Heo Do-gyeong was absent.

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As the meat sizzled on the grill, filling the air with a mouthwatering aroma, Kim Young-ho flipped it with the tongs.

“Wow, Guide Heo Do-gyeong couldn’t even show up for this? On a day like this?”

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Heo Do-gyeong had firmly declined, citing other commitments. Though Kang I-won felt a bit hurt by the absence, he tried not to let it show. It wasn’t as though someone as particular as Heo Do-gyeong would willingly eat in a place like this. Then again, considering his recent behavior, Kang I-won couldn’t help but wonder if that germophobia of his even still existed.

Kim Young-ho’s comment was answered by Han Kang-jin.

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“If he didn’t want to come, we can’t exactly force him.”

“Still…”

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Kim Young-ho glanced at Kang I-won, who was silently watching the meat cook, and continued cautiously.

“It’s I-won’s last day, you know.”

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“Guess he really didn’t want to come,” Kang I-won said, trying to sound nonchalant. His forced indifference prompted Kim Young-ho to change the subject.

“Sunbae, what are you planning to do after you quit being an Esper? Do you have anything in mind?”

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“Yeah.”

He had plans, but the real issue was whether he felt like pursuing them.

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“Oh, really? What is it?” Kim Young-ho asked curiously.

“There’s something I’ve been wanting to do for a while… I think I might give that a shot,” Kang I-won replied vaguely.

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Kim Young-ho tilted his head at the ambiguous response and asked again.

“Something you’ve been wanting to do? What is it?”

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“It’s personal. Just… something for myself.”

“That personal…”

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“Whatever it is, take a proper rest first. Sleep well, and then do it. You haven’t had a real break in ages,” Han Kang-jin interjected, cutting off Kim Young-ho’s persistent questioning.

Kang I-won nodded obediently. “Alright, I will.”

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Resting and sleeping… It might not be meaningful, but it’s not bad advice either.

The conversation shifted to trivial topics as the gathering continued.

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The sizzling meat on the grill was cut into bite-sized pieces, golden brown and perfectly cooked. Someone placed a piece onto a lettuce wrap, and fresh raw meat was laid back onto the grill. The warm and friendly atmosphere built slowly, but the farewell dinner didn’t last long. Unlike Kang I-won, who was now effectively unemployed, the rest of Team 5 had to work the next day.

The gathering ended early.

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“Thank you for all your hard work. You’ve done a great job.”

“Oh, not at all. I’m the one who should be thanking you for everything.”

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“I really appreciate everything, Sunbae. I hope you find happiness from now on.”

“Um… Me too. Thank you for everything,” Kang I-won replied, slightly awkwardly.

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With parting words from Hyun Ho-jun and Kim Young-ho, the modest farewell gathering concluded.

As Kang I-won walked through a quiet alley, he paused to glance back at the center one last time.

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Even at this late hour, with everyone gone and shop lights turning off one by one, the towering center remained brightly lit, its glow illuminating the dark streets.

Kang I-won stared at it for a moment, then forced himself to turn away, hurrying his reluctant steps as he moved further from the place he had called home for so long.

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