The Perfect

“We can’t see.”“Then how did he…”“Instinct. An unimaginable level of instinct.”CEO Ryu replied and turned his gaze aside. Director Kook turned his head to look beside them. Director Kook seemed to sense another person and narrowed his eyes, glaring beyond the mirrored wall. CEO Ryu’s eyes followed. The Restoration Agency head was grinning, but he wasn’t looking at Director Kook. He had been watching Han Jemyung from the start.* * *It was awkward. Leaving the Ant House and riding in Yangsimless’s car, we exchanged only four sentences.“You really won’t take cab fare?”“Do you want to give it that badly?”“Absolutely not.”“Then shut up.”I kept quiet, but my mind was full of questions. Why did Yangsimless give me a ride? Would he really not take cab fare? Would he ask for something else instead? Why were we going in a different direction from my home? …We really were going in a different direction!I pressed my face to the window, looking around. Where are we?! The tree-lined street ended, and a long wall began. The wall was too high to see over, with CCTV and safety lights everywhere. After a while, the car stopped at a huge iron gate. Guards with guns checked the car and driver before letting us through.Surely not another secret government base… It wasn’t. Inside the gate was a well-kept park. Young mothers with strollers, elderly people, and dogs on walks were enjoying a peaceful afternoon. I momentarily forgot why Yangsimless brought me here, captivated by the serene scene.In the distance, students were skateboarding and playing basketball, and elementary school kids were running and screaming around a large fountain. Soon, I saw a complex of low, luxurious villas, two or three stories high. I realized where we were.This was a safety complex. A small city with high walls, houses, schools, all kinds of amenities, and parks. Known as Dream Town, it was only accessible to the wealthy. I’d seen flyers for new safety complexes but never paid attention since they were irrelevant to me.Entering a place ordinary people dream of, I was tense. The reason for bringing me here was obvious. Heartless, of course. Exhausted from days of sleepless report writing, he was surely putting me in danger again. I cursed Yangsimless under my breath.But I couldn’t protest as we parked and entered a three-story villa. Instead, I silently cursed. Inside, he used a keycard to enter a spacious lobby. I was surprised. An elevator in a three-story building?Money really overflows here. I clicked my tongue as we took the elevator to the third floor. It had been years since I used an elevator for three floors, and I felt guilty. He used the keycard again at one of the facing doors. As the door opened, I followed him cautiously, eyes wide open, ready for a Heartless attack.Prepared to shout “Save me, Director Kook” at any moment, I was tense. But there was no attack. Yangsimless led me to a room with a huge bed that could fit three adults. He stared at me from the doorway. I stared back. After a moment of staring, he asked.“Aren’t you going to sleep?”“Sleep?”“You’re tired. Sleep.”He pointed to the bed. Confused, I closed my eyes. Wait, what’s this? Does he plan to call Heartless while I sleep?“Director Kook, where’s the Heartless?”Yangsimless twitched his eyebrow and touched a wall panel. A signal beeped, and a voice answered.[What’s the matter?]“Is there a Heartless here?”[No? Absolutely not. No intruders, no residents infected.]“Swear on your life?”[…I’ll double-check.]The nervous voice disappeared, and Yangsimless turned to me.“No Heartless. I don’t feel any here either.”My mind raced. If not Heartless, what danger was I in? Would the building collapse? No, not in such an expensive area. Was he planning to kill me himself?! I stepped back, and Yangsimless narrowed his eyes.“Still have a headache?”“Will you make it hurt if it doesn’t?”“……”He frowned more and muttered.“Turned into an idiot.”“Idiot? What do you mean? You bring me here out of nowhere, of course I’m suspicious. Whatever your intention…”“There’s a bed. Isn’t it obvious?”He snapped irritably. A bed? Wait, a murder bed? Does it have hidden knives?“Damn Special Department. They messed up someone already in bad shape, now his head too? Mr. Han Jemyung, file for industrial injury.”“Industrial injury?”“You’re an idiot now.”“Who?”“You.”I felt truly stupid. I put my hand on my head to think. My head really hurt.“So there’s no Heartless, no knives in the bed, and you’re not trying to kill me?”“Don’t you eat tuna? No DHA, that’s why your brain’s like that.”“Someone took months of my salary, so I can’t afford that. And it’s DHA. Anyway, why did you bring me here? Where is this?”“Brought you to sleep. Company dorm. You haven’t slept, right? Isn’t that it?”He pointed to the bed again. I looked back and forth between the bed and him. This is the 4K dormitory? That’s pretty nice. Despite the absurdity, I was impressed. But then I became suspicious again.“I haven’t slept well, but I can sleep at my own place. Why here at the 4K dormitory…”“So I can sleep in peace too.”“……”“I can’t sleep worrying you might die somewhere out of sight. Understand?”I didn’t. I couldn’t accept such a ridiculous reason. But I was too tired to argue and go home. I was really exhausted. The bed looked very comfortable too.“I just need to sleep? I don’t have to pay or do anything else, right?”Yangsimless suddenly crossed his arms and looked me up and down.“Anything else… So you were trying to seduce me. I knew it from the moment you used cucumber soap.”Did this guy eat a DHL label or something? I firmly responded to his nonsense.“I’m going to sleep. Only sleep. I have no other intentions. Okay?”“……”What’s with the disappointed look? When I thought it was my imagination, he grumbled and left the room.“Liar.”I almost never dream. When I do, it’s usually nightmares, so dreams aren’t welcome. Despite the fluffy bed, pleasant temperature, and safe house, I woke up with my forehead and hair drenched in sweat from a nightmare.I dreamt of the Ant House. It turned into a literal ant house, just as Yangsimless had said to the people behind the mirror. The Ant House collapsed. I couldn’t find the exit, wandered through endless paths, and was buried under the collapsing ceiling and debris. The nightmare ended when I was suffocating from being buried alive.The room was cool, as Yangsimless had said, but I was thirsty when I woke up. Parched like in a desert. I went to the living room, already dark outside, but the house was brightly lit. After looking around, I found the kitchen and opened the fridge. I reached for a neatly lined-up bottle of water but hesitated.I might have to pay. Quietly closing the door, I drank tap water. Then the front door beeped open. Had Yangsimless gone out? He left all the lights on? Crazy. As I thought that, a voice stopped everything.“When did you get here? The security post told me to tell you there’s no Heartless after checking several times…”CEO Na stopped when he saw me. His handsome face made my heart stop.“I didn’t know Mr. Han Jemyung was here.”“I didn’t expect CEO Na either.”I regretted saying that. It’s the 4K dormitory, of course, he’d come.“Oh, I heard this is the 4K dormitory.”“Yes. I live right below.”“Yes, below… What?!”Didn’t you know? He asked, coming closer. He put the bag he was carrying on the table and took out its contents. Beer. I swallowed involuntarily. Too loudly. CEO Na smiled and offered me a can.“Have one.”“No, it’s too expensive.”“You deserve it. You went through investigations at the Special Department for days? Suffered because of Director Kook.”He was a great person. His greeting made my accumulated frustration and resentment disappear. I accepted the beer and opened the can. Pop, hiss— such a refreshing sound after so long. The taste was even better. Fresh from the fridge, the cold beer was exhilarating. Gulp, gulp. I might have finished half the can in one go.“This is nice.”I sighed in appreciation. Then I realized I was the only one drinking.“Aren’t you having one?”“Watching you drink cools me too.”Despite his words, he opened a can. Seeing handsome, perfect CEO Na drink beer before me would have brought me to tears before. But I wasn’t as moved now. The word “playboy” from the Special Agent dampened my fantasy. Though I believed he had his reasons, it still hurt. But for the first time, drinking with him, I dared to say what I wouldn’t have before.“Can I ask…”“May I ask…”CEO Na said the same. I lightly touched his arm with my index finger.“Jinx.”CEO Na tried to stifle a laugh, his mouth twitching.“Excuse me for saying this to a man, but Mr. Han Jemyung is sometimes cute.”Thank you. I accepted the compliment cheerfully.“Not handsome, but at least I’m sometimes cute.”“Of course, you’re also admirable. You’re the first to endure Director Kook’s grudge this long.”I didn’t want to be admirable for that. So different from his cousin.“You said you’re cousins with Director Kook?”“Yes. Director Kook’s mother is my aunt.”“So Director Kook is patrilineal.”CEO Na understood and smiled.“Indeed, his personality is somewhat influenced by his father’s side. But Director Kook isn’t as bad as he seems.”Maybe because it was the second time hearing it, or maybe I was used to Yangsimless, I recalled him lending sneakers to the chairman. It didn’t fit someone who only cared about money and was ruthless to Heartless.‘Sir, how was it? Did you run well? I was right, wasn’t I? Those shoes make you run super fast.’Yangsimless’s smile then was genuine. But I wasn’t agreeing with CEO Na.“He’s responsible and has a pure side too.”“Who?”“Director Kook.”“Family is the best.”He chuckled again.“If you knew the real Director Kook, you’d change your mind. Of course, I might not be objective since I’m family, but Director Kook was called Soondungi when he was young.”“…A club?”“No, Soondungi.”“Who?”“Director Kook.”I see. I nodded and finished my beer in one go. The alcohol hit, but reality was still tough.“So Director Kook had a big trial in his childhood? Did he get scammed in a pyramid scheme at five?”“He grew up without major incidents. The family still sometimes calls him Soondungi.”I never thought I’d doubt my own ears. As I questioned myself, CEO Na burst into laughter.“Hahaha, no need to be so shocked. Your reaction was so amusing I kept answering seriously. I agree the nickname doesn’t fit. A tall guy like him called Soondungi.”It’s not about height, man.“But in terms of romance, he’s surprisingly pure, so it fits.”“What’s surprisingly pure?”If it wasn’t surprising, I’d curse even CEO Na. He chuckled at me.“I mentioned before, Director Kook is very clumsy with feelings. He grew up with a family tradition of repaying wrongs, so he’s only good at sensing enemies.”It’s a family tradition, huh.“In his teens, when he should’ve been interested in dating, he was busy with revenge, worrying his aunt.”There are many problems.“Then his aunt adopted a stray dog, which had been abused by a young man, so it was wary and disliked Director Kook. He said he didn’t like the dog, but… he started acting strange.”“How?”“Things in his room started disappearing or breaking, but he couldn’t find the culprit. It was obviously the dog. Missing items were found in the dog’s den, and broken items had clear bite marks, but he never thought it was the dog. He stayed by the dog 24/7 to catch the culprit. The family realized he loved the dog. Isn’t that pure?”No, that’s foolish. I wanted to correct him but decided to preserve CEO Na’s illusion.“So did he realize he liked the dog?”“Not yet. The family didn’t tell him. The dog still dislikes him.”I felt the dog might outrank Director Kook in his family.“If the dog is all he liked, that’s not enough to call him pure.”“He has a girlish sensitivity about romance. A year ago, he got hooked on a very cheesy romance novel. He cries reading it.”I was a bit surprised. As the author of cheesy romance novels, I was also embarrassed.“Maybe the novel is, ahem, interesting?”“I doubt it. He forced the staff to read it, and I couldn’t get through it.”I vowed to keep my novels a secret from CEO Na.“Director Kook never liked such novels.”He seemed like someone who’d only read revenge stories. As I found it absurd, CEO Na muttered to himself.“Maybe it’s because of what happened three years ago.”Lost in thought, he glanced at me.“Director Kook holding a grudge this long is rare. I wondered if he was drawn to you in another way.”“Another way? Hatred, disdain, mockery?”“Haha, no. Positive feelings.”“That’s impossible unless I buy him a lifetime supply of Malang Jjolang.”He’d demand enough for the next life too.“The Special Department probably thinks like me. That’s why you were taken to the Ant House.”I realized his true purpose. I firmly shook my head.“Absolutely not. The Special Department sees me as a tool to extract information from Director Kook. The Special Agent threatened me to stay close for information. No one thinks Director Kook is drawn to me in another way.”So you should drop that thought too.“You were threatened by the Special Management Department. What did they say… Oh, sorry, that’s rude.”“They told me not to resolve my grudge and stay close. They threatened to blame me for the shirt incident. They even gave me important information I didn’t want to know to keep me involved.”I tattled immediately. CEO Na smiled, slightly embarrassed. I grinned too.“Want to hear the important information?”“I can’t just listen, so I’ll share something too. Ask your question.”Can I really? As I hesitated, he encouraged me. I took a deep breath and asked boldly.“Are you a playboy, CEO Na?”“That’s your question in exchange for important information?”Yes, I nodded vigorously.“I heard you never participated in GM Week. Your registered partners change yearly, and you only date based on looks. Is that true?”CEO Na leaned on the table, turning towards me. Surprisingly, his eyes smiled.“It’s true.”Thud. My heart, thinking it couldn’t fall further, dropped again.“Did you love all those people? How many did you love?”“I didn’t love any registered partners.”“Then all your relationships were…”“Contract relationships. GM Week participation is bothersome.”Hooray! Fireworks exploded in my head. I barely contained my smile and asked.“So the rumors about great sex with fake partners are lies?”No answer. He just chuckled. The fireworks fizzled out.“We enjoyed it by mutual agreement.”“…I see.”I must have looked dazed. His gaze turned colder.“Mr. Han Jemyung, are you interested in me?”“Yes. Artistically.”“Pardon?”“It’s absolutely not commercial.”This time, he looked dumbfounded. Normally, I would have found his expression cute and started thinking of an episode, but nothing came to mind. In my novel, CEO Na was the sexiest man on Earth, but he was also a pure man who saved his first experience for his true love.“It’s an unexpected answer, but in a way, it’s also expected.”What? I looked at him, and CEO Na gave a handsome smile.“My guess that Mr. Han Jemyung has no romantic feelings for me. Strangely, it feels like you purely admire my looks and status, like an idol fan. My intuition isn’t always right, but I’m usually accurate about who has romantic feelings for me. But not with you. It’s fascinating. You might be the opposite of what you seem.”* * *Han Jemyung. An unremarkable low-level Special Department employee. Director Kook holding a grudge this long was unusual, but it wasn’t because of Jemyung himself. The reason was Director Kook. He was starting to obsess over Jemyung without realizing it. Jinwook’s suspicion solidified when he saw Jemyung at the 4K dormitory.Jemyung caught in Director Kook’s grip was pitiful but amusing. When offering him a beer and chatting, Jinwook’s thoughts remained unchanged. You don’t like me. Then he added something that came to mind. You might be the opposite of what you seem.He expected Jemyung to smile sheepishly as usual. But he didn’t. Jemyung looked at Jinwook blankly. Jinwook was surprised by his eyes. They were calm, dark, and deep. For a moment, he seemed like a completely different person.“I’m just me. A simple guy as I appear.”Jemyung replied, then took a sip of beer, shaking the can as if reluctant to finish it. Jinwook wanted to confirm the feeling again.“But everyone has secrets. Secrets change people. Don’t they?”Jemyung looked away, mumbling, “Do they?” He was back to being the timid low-level employee. Jinwook pressed him further.“Director Kook holding a grudge this long is unprecedented. Maybe Director Kook senses something special in you.”“Cough, cough!”Jemyung choked on his beer. Not the reaction expected, but it suggested he had secrets.“S-secret?”“Indeed, I wonder. Are you hiding something from Director Kook?”“N-n-no.”He looked exactly like someone with secrets. Maybe it wasn’t related to his different demeanor, but it piqued Jinwook’s curiosity. What could it be? If Director Kook’s interest was not personal but related to Heartless…“Getting caught by Director Kook is just a matter of time. Better tell me and avoid trouble. At least I can help…”“I really thought it was a battery thief!”“…What?”“I thought the battery was dead or could be used by everyone. If I had known the community president was catching the culprit, I wouldn’t have testified. I swear!”Jemyung held his head, tearful. Jinwook strained his mind and recalled something.“You mean the flyer case at the apartment?”Nod, nod.“The witness Director Kook couldn’t find despite plastering flyers?”“Me.”Ah. Jinwook finally understood why Director Kook felt familiar seeing Jemyung. And the reason for the obsession.“But the witness was reported dead.”“I took the deceased’s documents… and forged them.”“That’s risky.”“I-I know it’s illegal…”“Even if the Special Department manipulated it, the Population Management Office will find issues later.”“Luckily, I know someone there who might take a bribe… a bribe… sniff.”Jemyung collapsed on the table in despair. He was someone you wanted to comfort. Jinwook patted his shoulder.“I’ll get the money.”“It’s not money. The bribe is hard-to-find idol merchandise.”“I’ll get it. Don’t worry and tell me.”He looked up with teary eyes.“Thank you so much.”“No other problems?”Flinch. Han Jemyung looked away. More problems? Then a low voice interrupted.“Bastard, hands off.”* * *It wasn’t loud or angry but cold, combined with the insult, it was powerful. I jumped up from the table, raising my hands. Hands off? Damn, is the table limited edition?! Desperate not to lose more salary, I looked at Yangsimless. But he was looking at CEO Na.“Get lost.”CEO Na stared back without moving. Was it aimed at me? I slightly lifted my seat. But CEO Na stood first.“Mr. Han Jemyung.”He turned and smiled at me.“Cleared the misunderstanding about me?”“Misunderstanding?”“I’m not a playboy. I truly love the person I’m with.”Why suddenly… I glanced at Yangsimless. He stared at CEO Na, expressionless. Wow, so menacing.“If you have more questions, come to my place. Right below. We can finish our secret chat then.”It’s not a secret. Special Agent didn’t say to keep it secret. I could tell anyone. The issue was the hostile atmosphere. One person chilled the room. I was the only one suffocating. CEO Na smiled and patted Yangsimless’s shoulder.“Don’t come.”Yangsimless slapped CEO Na’s hand away. But CEO Na, still smiling, left. When the door closed, Yangsimless put the bag on the table. Thud, a heavy sound. I quickly lifted my half-seated bottom.“I’ll be off…”“Sit.”“I want to go home.”“Got secrets at home?”Yangsimless knew everything, like a ghost. I almost thought about revealing my creative pursuits and accepting his mocking. But he made a big deal out of my injury. Imagine if he found out about my novels… Unthinkable.“It feels like home when you get attached.”I sat straight in the chair. Yangsimless finally looked away and took out the contents of the bag, spreading them on the table. It was all food: salad in a disposable wooden bowl, bread, soup in a thermos, and even a round steamer. He opened the lid, revealing a red-cooked lobster.A feast quickly spread out on the table. What’s this? I lifted my eyes from the first lobster I’d ever seen. Yangsimless raised his chin, looking down at me with a somewhat smug expression. Was he bragging about eating expensive food? Was I supposed to watch in awe? Not knowing his intention, I stayed still, and he anxiously asked.“Why aren’t you eating?”“Me?”“Yes, Mr. Han Jemyung. Didn’t you say you wanted lobster?”When did I… I recalled the conversation at the Ant House. For a moment, I was surprised. I looked back and forth between the lobster and him, a confusing fog filling my mind. But then I remembered an important premise. This was Yangsimless. How much did he expect to charge for this expensive meal? Hiding my shock, I quickly shook my head.“I don’t have money.”“It’s fine. Just eat.”As he spoke, he briefly looked away, almost shyly, I thought. But my hearing wasn’t deceiving me. Why was he telling me to just eat such an expensive lobster? Was it for drug experiments? I kept silent again, and he turned to me, coughing lightly.“Ahem, no need to look at me like that.”“How am I looking?”“You’re moved. You’re so grateful you’re in shock, I can tell.”Impossible. My gaze shook because he seemed crazy.“I understand. Presenting a luxurious meal you’ve never tasted, your feelings for me have deepened. I didn’t want to go this far, but Mr. Han Jemyung, you hinted so much. I thought I should do at least this.”It was Korean, but I didn’t understand a word. I stared half-open-mouthed, and he glanced at me, then ran his hand through his hair, muttering a curse.“Ah, forget it. I know I’m damn charming. Stop staring so dazedly.”He was right about one thing. The absurdity took away my wits.“Director Kook.”I finally spoke, seriously asking.“Are you sick?”“Worrying about me even now? Mr. Han Jemyung, you’re extreme.”He laughed, dramatically flipping his hair. I genuinely worried. Was he cursed?“Director Kook.”“Just eat. A lobster means nothing to me.”“Then you eat it. I won’t.”He suddenly turned to me, eyes narrowed.“Why not? Do you know how hard it was to get… never mind, just eat.”“No. It’s too expensive. I can’t.”“Eat. You said you wanted it.”His eyes turned fierce. I flinched but shook my head firmly. I wouldn’t fall for it.“Even if I want it, I won’t eat what you give. There’s no reason.”“…No reason?”“Yes. We’re nothing special. Why accept your favor?”There’s no favor, only plots. Resolute, I looked at him. Yangsimless stared down at me, expressionless. It made me uneasy, and I squirmed.“Then I’ll go home…”“Nothing special. Does that mean you want to be?”“Ha, no. Why would I think that?”“Because you like me.”“…”“…”“Who?”“You.”“Ha… Ha ha, too much. Why would I like you, Director Kook? Not at all.”I laughed at the absurdity but stopped seeing his cold eyes.“Then why did you move to my apartment?”That… I hesitated, unable to answer.“Why sign an absurd contract and come to our office?”Because I didn’t read it properly. I had an excuse this time, but couldn’t speak. Yangsimless showed no anger. His voice was calmer than usual, eyes devoid of menace. Yet, I couldn’t open my mouth.“Why stick by my side?”“That…”For the third time, I repeated the same word.“Ask yourself, Director Kook. You know I called for you in danger. You’re perceptive.”“True, I’m perceptive. So I know it wasn’t a dangerous moment.”“What do you mean? I was surrounded by high-risk Heartless in the lab. I survived by luck…”The argument died in my mouth. I didn’t know. Fear struck that he knew everything about me. He spoke in a low voice, coldly watching me.“Claim luck if you want. I don’t care what you did.”“Then what do you care about?”“Just you. You’re on my mind.”Swallowing was hard. Breathing too. I struggled to ignore my reactions, speaking.“It’s the grudge. I annoyed you, and you couldn’t get back.”“I don’t think so.”“It is. There’s no other reason.”“Another reason?”He seemed to ask himself.“What if it’s love?”“No. Impossible.”“I like you.”He tilted his head. His dark eyes held mine.“I want to kiss you.”I thought I was an expert in confessions. My novel had every confession scene imaginable. From a flower delivery so massive it drained Dutch tulip farms, to confessing in zero gravity at a space station, only to collide with space debris.Almost every man in my novel confessed to Wi Siwoo in a parade of love. I was used to confessions. So the simple word “like” shouldn’t have affected me. But reality rendered my rehearsals useless. I couldn’t breathe. My mind went blank. My heart raced.It was pure instinct that allowed me to move. My survival instinct, honed by countless escapes, kicked in. He took a step towards me. I stepped back almost simultaneously. He watched me, then took another step. I quickly retreated again, this time leaping back like a long jumper.The awkward flailing of my arms bothered me briefly, but I soon forgot it, facing him. We stood in silent standoff. He lifted his foot slightly. I spread my legs like scissors and stepped back. We both froze. My legs ached from the wide stance.“What are you doing?”I silently closed my legs.“Director Kook is approaching.”“I want to go.”“I want to step back.”He tilted his head again. His gaze dropped slightly to my lips. I inhaled sharply and stepped back. He looked up. I’d seen that look before. It was similar to when he scanned everyone to catch the last culprit among the Heartless soldiers’ bodies. A chill ran through me.“Why?”He asked. He took a slow step forward. This time, I couldn’t step back. My body froze. Even if he came right up to me, I might not have moved. But the sudden doorbell broke the silence. It rang a few more times, then the door opened, and someone entered.“Director Kook, you need to move quickly. A mutated Heartless appeared again, saying it wants to talk to you…”Muscly Man, rushing in, stopped seeing me and Director Kook. Sensing the strange atmosphere, he looked between us and asked.“What’s going on?”Instead of answering, I quickly hid behind him.“Hey.”“Move.”The command came. Muscly Man turned to Yangsimless, swallowing. He stepped aside. I quickly followed. Muscly Man frowned at me. Are you crazy? He moved again, and I clung to his arm.“What are you doing?”Because I’m terrified. Even with Muscly Man here, those eyes never left me, making me shiver. Muscly Man raised his arm to shake me off but hesitated.“Damn, let go.”Yangsimless’s low curse made Muscly Man swing his arm like a fan. But it was futile. I clung to his arm, and Muscly Man looked at me in shock. Why aren’t you letting go? He glanced fearfully at Yangsimless. Yangsimless, still expressionless, took another step towards me.“I can cut off an arm.”A small knife appeared in Yangsimless’s hand. I finally let go of Muscly Man’s arm and stepped aside. Muscly Man, pale, quickly fled. My gaze stayed on Yangsimless’s knife. I didn’t know where he hid it, but his skill was ghostly. I was slightly shocked I hadn’t noticed him draw a weapon. It was a new kind of fear.“Why?”The same question. I swallowed and looked up. He took another step towards me. In panic, I raised my hand and shouted.“Because I don’t like it!”He finally stopped, and I backed towards the door, shouting again.“I don’t like you!”My house felt unfamiliar after days away. But habits are strong. I unconsciously checked for intruders and if everything was in place. The house was fine. The problem was the safety light. It dimmed and went out. Ah, the battery’s dead.This month was night power outage period. To use electricity at night, you had to charge home batteries in advance. I planned to, but I was too distracted. I fumbled in the dark for candles. The box was light. My bad feeling was right. It was empty.I forgot to buy candles. There might be an emergency light somewhere, but I was too tired to look. I slumped on the dark sofa. Just 30 minutes by car. A completely different world was 30 minutes away. The cool, spacious, bright villa was just 30 minutes ago. His last words echoed.‘I want to kiss you.’In the dark, empty house, I bowed my head, confused. What’s happening? Why did Yangsimless say that? A new way to torment me? I had many questions but knew the answer. He was sincere.The problem was my response. Did I do the right thing? It’s Yangsimless. I had hundreds of reasons not to like him. So why was I so restless? I bowed my head more, clutching it.“What’s going on?”The power outage was a relief. No candles, no emergency light, so I couldn’t see my flushed face. Damn. Does he really like me? But it’s Yangsimless. The grudge-holding guy. Thinking of grudges reminded me of what I hid from him. And I rejected his confession! He wouldn’t seek revenge for that, right? Reality hit hard. Surely, he wouldn’t after confessing?‘I like you.’His words echoed. His voice, eyes, expressionless face, all clear.“Damn.”I jumped up. Enough, don’t think about it. I don’t like Yangsimless, no need to worry. I looked for something to do and found my phone. I hadn’t turned it on during the Special Department investigation, so it lit up after days.But it was low on battery, warning as soon as it turned on. Checking missed calls, I saw one from the publisher’s producer. Why did they call? With no battery and it being late, I was about to turn it off when it rang.Ring—A restricted number. The battery warning blinked red.“…Hello?”No answer.“Hello?”[Na Jinwook here.]“…Yes.”[Not the call you were waiting for?]“No. I wasn’t waiting.”[Just joking. You sound down.]He chuckled. I stayed silent, and he asked seriously.[Are you okay?]“Yes.”He must have heard from Muscly Man but didn’t mention it.[I know you’re tired from the Special Department investigation. But I need you at the office tomorrow.]Got it. I mumbled. A short silence followed. Unlike his usual quick hang-up, he continued slowly. It was information I didn’t need to know.[A mutated Heartless appeared again. It said it wanted to talk to the cook, then disappeared. Director Kook had to go to the provinces. It’ll take at least a day. I’m heading there too. The Special Department and Special Unit will likely swarm. Director Kook seems uneasy this time.]“……”[Mr. Han Jemyung?]The phone beeped, warning of low battery. Luckily, I didn’t have to answer. The phone shut off. I stared at the black screen, then looked out the window. CEO Na probably wanted me to explain the situation myself. But I had nothing to say. I didn’t want to tattle to CEO Na about this. It was hard to talk about with anyone.I stood up, shaking off my thoughts, and opened the room Yangsimless wanted to see. Creative work is the best way to clear my mind. I opened my notebook. A page was filled with writing about Yangsimless. Damn. I gripped my pen, trying to focus on the villain in my novel, but couldn’t write a single line. All I could think of was the perfect supporting character’s quiet confession.“Ah, damn.”I threw the pen and turned on my laptop. When I can’t write, reading readers’ comments is the best comfort. I had posted several long chapters a few days ago and hadn’t seen the reactions because I went to the chairman’s house. Seeing people hate the perfect villain might inspire me to write.I moved the mouse anxiously, with a bit of hope. Luckily, the laptop still had some battery. I quickly logged into the novel site. I found my last posted chapter and paused. The number of comments was more than double the usual. People must be furious at the perfect villain. I was already moved. With trembling hands, I clicked the chapter. Finally, readers would be on my side…― Wow! Finally, Siwoo’s lifelong partner has appeared!― The partner is amazing! To mess with annoying Wi Siwoo like that, a true protagonist!― Director Kook, please take Wi Siwoo. He needs a man like that.― Go, partner! Wi Siwoo should have met someone like that long ago.What is this?! I staggered up. I couldn’t believe it. My novel usually gets a lot of hate comments, which I understood because it’s not normal. But the partner is Yangsimless’s counterpart in reality! Shouldn’t the partner be hated?I moved the mouse, hoping for different comments. But even when Wi Siwoo’s childhood friend died from a North Korean missile, there wasn’t such unity in the comments. Everyone supported the partner. Did they forget CEO Na, People’s Most Beautiful Person for 31 years?― A man needs charisma, not looks. I’d forgive Director Kook even if he had three eyes.Looks didn’t work. But CEO Na is the head of a company with 5 million employees…― The partner is rich too. Director Kook is perfect!Damn. I made it too realistic. I should have made him a low-level employee. But it was too late to regret. I couldn’t understand the readers’ reaction. CEO Na is mannered, obsessive, and loves one person passionately. Yet they prefer Director Kook?― Love is best when it starts with fighting. The author finally writes properly.I was praised. I was dazed for a moment. But I quickly regained my senses. No, the protagonist is CEO Na! There must be someone supporting him. Like the Addiction Trio.― CEO Na and Director Kook? What’s with the names? /health lover― All Director Kooks are… hmm… /shopping lover― Wow, CEO Na followed by Director Kook! So interesting! /alcohol loverThey only cared about the surname Kook. It’s rare, but their identical reactions were strange. Anyway, the expected reaction wasn’t there. I finished reading the comments, feeling empty, and was about to close the laptop when I realized something was missing. Where’s Soondungi?I checked again. Soondungi wasn’t there. Since CEO Na appeared, Soondungi hadn’t commented. My only fan abandoning me hurt. I hoped Soondungi was just busy. Disappointed in my writing… Huh? Something caught my eye.On the site’s main page, the premium review section. Only those with a year-long subscription could leave reviews there. My novel had never been featured. But there it was, my novel’s title in the premium review section. I rubbed my eyes and clicked. The author’s name appeared first.‘Soondungi’Gasp! Soondungi is back! I excitedly tried to read the review but couldn’t click. The bold title blocked me.― Director Kook must marry Wi Siwoo.…What is this? I seriously considered quitting. The betrayal from a trusted fan was huge. After a few minutes of disbelief, I clicked the review. The familiar terrible spelling greeted me. The content was awful from the first line.— Director Kook is so cool and humane.Did Soondungi mistake Director Kook for CEO Na?— Director Kook is a thousand times better than the promiscuous CEO Na.When was CEO Na promiscuous in the novel? Though there are rumors in reality… I tilted my head. Something felt off, but I couldn’t pinpoint it. After a few more seconds, I closed the laptop and lay on the floor. Exhaustion hit. It was the worst day, receiving a confession and praise for my writing.5:30 AM. I woke up, not needing to go to work. The misery of a worker. I got up and started my morning routine. I unfolded the solar panels for charging, cleaned the house, pedaled the bike generator for 20 minutes to charge my dead phone, then finally washed up.Ready to eat, I found nothing. I used an icebox instead of a fridge to save on electricity, but it was empty. The ice had almost melted. Just a few days away, and there was so much to do.But I was hungry. Food first. I grabbed my charged phone and opened the door. It didn’t open. No, it opened but didn’t budge. What? I pushed hard. Something blocking the door moved. Then I heard a groan.“Ugh.”Startled, I peeked through the slightly open door. An old man was sitting there. Why sleep in front of someone’s door… 4K Section Chief Bae?“Damn, my whole body aches.”The drunk man stretched, spreading the smell of alcohol. How much did he drink to reek like this? I saw empty soju bottles by the door. Did he drink here?“Huh? Why are you coming out of there?”The drunk man, now sober, asked. His voice had the usual gruffness. But I was the one to be gruff.“This is my house.”“What?”“Yes?”“Ah—”“Huh?”This time, I lost.“Section Chief Bae, why are you here?”“Let’s go.”“Go where?”“Weren’t you going out to eat?”How did he know?!“Your stomach is growling.”The drunkard had sharp ears. But sober, he was intimidating, so I followed him quietly.“Why were you in front of my house?”“What do you want to eat?”Seriously, this guy. Does he have a habit of cutting people off when sober?“Anything is fine. But why were you in front of my house…”“Anything. That’s an annoying answer. I need to get you the best.”He mumbled to himself, so I couldn’t ask. Why do you need to get me the best? But getting an answer from him sober was tough. Surprisingly, the solution was simple. As soon as we entered a 24-hour bean sprout soup restaurant, Section Chief Bae ordered.“Two of anything and soju, please.”Luckily, the only menu item was bean sprout soup. The owner looked displeased at a customer wanting to drink so early.“How many shots of soju?”“Give me the bottle.”The owner’s face showed respect for the generous customer. A sucker in the morning! The owner happily brought the expensive soju, and Section Chief Bae drank straight from the bottle. He showed the meticulousness of drinking before eating hangover soup.While admiring this true drinker of our time, the food arrived. Hungry, I took a big spoonful of hot bean sprout soup. The crunchy sprouts and refreshing broth made me forget my burning mouth as I chewed and swallowed. Mmm, this place is pretty good…“Director Kook.”“Cough! Hack, hack… cough, cough!”“Careful, it’s hot. Are you nervous because I’m here? The sophisticated Special Department employee?”My startled heart calmed at the drunkard’s nonsense. I looked at the soju bottle. Two-thirds empty. How does he drink so often?“But I only date older women.”Sure, whatever. I answered vaguely and picked up my spoon again, but couldn’t continue eating. I looked around and asked.“What about Director Kook?”“Got a text. Curious?”“No.”I denied strongly and moved my spoon. But I still couldn’t eat.“Really not curious? Director Kook is rampaging.”“Rampaging?”“Yeah. Maybe heartbroken, he’s chopping Heartless left and right.”“Cough!”I choked on my saliva. The drunkard continued, ignoring my struggle.“They need to capture them for information, but Director Kook is killing them all. The Special Department and Special Agent must be furious, chasing him around. Must be fun.”“If it’s so fun, go watch.”“No. I need to protect the sophisticated Mr. Han Jemyung.”“Protect?”“Got orders from the CEO. To stay by your side. Also told you to move to the company dorm.”“Director Kook?”“No. CEO Na.”“Protect from who?”“Director Kook, of course.”“……”“Section Chief Seo told me everything. Said you did something big? CEO Na said he’s never seen Director Kook so angry. He was radiating murderous intent like ice. I almost peed myself. Hahaha— We even bet on when Director Kook will cut your throat.”He laughed, but my face fell.“Isn’t it cute? Getting so mad at being told ‘I don’t like you’ to his face. Like a kid. Haha— So typical of Director Kook, yet…”He stopped and tilted his head like a roly-poly. Did his tremor reach his head?“Why get so mad? He must’ve heard ‘I don’t like you’ before.”“……”“Yet he told me to get you the best breakfast. Maybe to feed you well before killing you?”I had nothing to say. I ordered a shot of soju and downed it.“You’re amazing too. After experiencing Director Kook’s grudge, you can still say ‘I hate you, die.’”“I never said that!”“Well, that’s not the point.”Seriously, what is the point?“The point is how you’ll stop rampaging Director Kook.”I ordered another shot. The owner seemed to want me to order a whole bottle like the drunkard, but with my bank balance at zero, this was my limit.“When Director Kook comes, say the opposite. Say you like him.”I almost choked on the precious soju.“Though that might make him hold a bigger grudge. So what’s the right answer?”The drunkard already gave the right answer. I swallowed my unspoken words with the soju.I arrived at the 4K office with the drunkard’s escort. Escort in name, I had to support the staggering drunkard several times. Entering the office, Muscly Man and Clicker stopped talking and looked at me. They must’ve been talking about me. Under their gaze, I sat at my assigned seat. The trio, now including the drunkard, whispered in front of me.‘Will Director Kook kill him openly?’‘Maybe secretly and bury him.’‘Take him to a Heartless area and bury him there.’They all nodded at the last idea. They worried about me for a while, then fell silent. Curious, I looked up to see them avoiding my gaze.“Just ask.”