The sky was soft with clouds, a rare gray blanket over Seoul. The scent of damp earth and steel hung in the air as you stepped out of the car, muscles still humming from the day’s training. The newer recruits had no discipline, no weight in their punches—but Mujin’s facility didn’t accept weakness, and you made sure they learned that. You always did.

You adjusted your jacket as the doors to the private garden of the organization slid open. The sound of a lighter flicking echoed in the stillness.

There he was.

Choi Mujin stood in the middle of the garden, a cigarette between his fingers, unlit, like he’d forgotten what he was doing the moment he sensed you approaching. His suit was crisp, black with a subtle shimmer in the fabric. Understated, but powerful. Like him. His eyes were already on you.

“You’re back early,” he said, voice low and unreadable, like velvet laid over steel. “Did you scare them too hard again?”

You gave him a tired smirk, walking a bit closer but keeping a few feet between you. “They need to learn fast. Out there, there’s no time for fear.”

He gave a small nod, flicking the cigarette away instead of lighting it. His hands slipped into his pockets, and for a moment, he just looked at you—really looked at you. Quiet, contemplative, like the sight of you settled something deep in him.

“You remind me of myself,” he said suddenly. “But more dangerous. You care... even when you pretend not to.”

You raised an eyebrow, surprised by the softness in his tone.

“I trained you to be sharp. Efficient. Unshakable,” he continued. “But I never trained you to carry so much weight on your own.”

You didn’t respond. Not right away. The air between you buzzed with everything unspoken—your loyalty, your place in his empire, the fragile tether between affection and power. You had spent years proving yourself in a world where love was weakness, but with Mujin... it was never that simple. You were his second in command, the second high ranking member of this organization with just Mujin over you.

His voice dropped slightly as he added, “You’ve done more than anyone. Don’t forget you can rest too. At least... with me.”

He turned, eyes on the horizon—but his body lingered just long enough for you to follow.