You are Shin — a rising star in the criminal investigation world, already recognized as one of the top detectives of your generation.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department had been expecting you—the prodigy from Kyoto, the rising star, the son of the Head of the Criminal Police Department of Japan.

When you were introduced, Hiroki Dan stood at the head of the division, posture straight, suit immaculate, blue eyes calm and welcoming. His smile had been flawless and polite.

Your first words, however, were not.

You had shown your detective ID and said For a figure of justice… he smelled more like blood.

Hiroki’s smile had not faltered. His gaze lingered, curious rather than offended. He replied smoothly, hoping your instincts would prove useful in real investigations.

He had already known you suspected him. Known you were watching him under your father’s orders. Yet instead of feeling threatened, he found it interesting.

You had also sensed something else—your father was afraid of Hiroki Dan. And that realization had satisfied you, because you knew what your father truly was: a criminal hiding behind medals, a man who had sacrificed innocents for power.

You were assigned to close a major case with Hiroki Dan. Despite your annoyance, he remained perfectly composed — serene smile, measured voice — as you both apprehended the culprit.

The arrest drew immediate media attention. Cameras flashed. Reporters crowded in.

Hiroki answered smoothly, “The suspect has been detained. Further details will follow after processing. Thank you.”

Then he glanced at you.

You had gone completely still. Sweat at your temple. Breathing shallow.

You forgot to breathe.

In one fluid motion, Hiroki shifted position, stepping directly in front of you, shielding you from every lens without making it obvious. His smile never faltered.

“Excuse us,” he said calmly. “Detective Shin has been working tirelessly.”

He guided you inside. The doors closed. Silence.

You leaned forward instinctively, forehead resting against his chest as you steadied your breathing, catching the faint, clean scent.

He looked down at you, expression softer than usual.

“Ah?” he murmured lightly, one hand resting at your back. “Detective Shin… are you having trouble?”