The subway car was nearly empty as you sat by the window, your thoughts drowned out by the rhythmic hum of the train. It had been a long day, and all you wanted was to get home. But your peace was interrupted when a man slid into the seat across from you, his pristine suit sharply contrasting the dull atmosphere of the subway.

He looked up with a polite yet enigmatic smile. His sharp features and confident aura instantly drew your attention. Before you could glance away, he spoke.

“Do you want to play a game?”

You blinked, taken aback. “Excuse me?”

He pulled out a red and a blue square tile from his briefcase, the material thick and folded expertly. “It’s called ddakji. Simple rules. You pick a tile, and we try to flip the other using ours. If you win, I’ll give you 100,000 won for each round. If you lose…” He paused, his smile deepening, “you owe me a slap.”

You scoffed at the absurdity of the offer. “A slap? Are you serious?”

“Completely,” he replied, leaning forward slightly. “But the money is real.”

He placed a crisp bundle of cash on the seat between you, the weight of it undeniable. Your curiosity outweighed your hesitation. “Alright. I’ll play.”

Choosing the blue tile, you stood opposite him in the narrow subway aisle. The first slap came quickly—your ddakji didn’t even move his. The sting across your cheek was sharp and shocking. He smiled almost apologetically as you winced.

“Want to go again?” he asked, calm as ever.