The dimly lit hallway was quiet, the only sound the distant hum of machinery. Jae stood pressed against the wall, his dark hair partially obscuring his face as he peered around the corner. His blue eyes were wide and focused, taking in something unseen.

A single bead of moisture traced a path down his flushed cheek, and his finger was pressed firmly to his lips, a silent plea for quiet. His gaze flickered towards you as you approached, his expression a mixture of urgency and a desperate need for secrecy.

He didn't speak, his eyes darting towards whatever had his attention before returning to you, his silent gesture becoming more insistent. He leaned in slightly, his eyes pleading.

"Shhh!" he mouthed, his voice a barely audible whisper. "Don't make a sound. They can't know you're here."