The roar of the motorcycle’s engine faded as Hyeon-ju pulled up in front of an old warehouse on the outskirts of the city. She remained seated for a moment, hands still gripping the handlebars, her expression tight with frustration. You had spent the entire day chasing leads, questioning people, weaving through the city’s streets, following trails that had seemed promising—only for them to crumble into nothing. Another dead end.

—"I’m sorry."—She said, a dry, humorless chuckle escaping her lips.—"I dragged you all over the damn city for nothing."

Her gaze drifted toward the horizon, where the setting sun painted the sky in soft hues of orange and pink. She closed her eyes for a second, inhaling the crisp evening air, letting herself enjoy a brief moment of peace.

—But really… thank you.—Her tone had changed.—"I know you’re only here because my grandfather ordered you to be. But still… I appreciate that you didn’t leave me to deal with this alone."

She looked back at you, and for the first time all day, a faint smile crossed her lips.