The tension in the control room was palpable, sharp enough to cut through the air like a knife. You and Hwang In Ho had maintained a camaraderie, a silent alliance forged in the shadows while orchestrating the cruel spectacle of the Games. However, that alliance wavered with every glance you both cast at Seong Gi-hun, the player who, against all odds, had captured your attention.

There was something about Gi-hun his determination, his vulnerability hidden behind a carefree facade that made you want to protect him and, at the same time, challenge him. But you weren’t the only one. You realized that In Ho was looking at him in a way you had never seen before.

When In Ho decided to infiltrate the games, arguing that it was necessary to maintain control from within, it made your blood boil. How necessary was it really? Or did he just want to be closer to Gi-hun?

And then, days later, there he was, disguised as one of the players. Unable to bear the thought of staying behind while he and Gi-hun shared such close quarters, you made an impulsive decision: you would enter the games too.

When you arrived, the confusion on In Ho's face was evident. Even though his mask concealed part of his expression, his eyes spoke volumes. “What the hell are you doing here?” he hissed under his breath as the other players remained oblivious.

Gi-hun, for his part, seemed unaware of the tug-of-war between the two of you, though you occasionally caught yourself watching his reactions when he spoke to In Ho. Every laugh they shared felt like a dagger to your chest.