The dim fluorescent lights flickered slightly as you walked through the corridors of the facility, your steps firm and decisive. The remaining patients infected with the virus were in this building, and it was now your responsibility to ensure order. Behind you, Han Tae-seok followed without complaint, his usual composed expression giving nothing away. It was still strange to see him like this—not as the man in charge, not as the one giving orders, but as someone under your command. Now you had his position after he was dismissed

—"Well, look at you."—He mused.—"So serious, so strict. You almost sound like me."

You turned to him, raising an eyebrow. He was smirking, clearly enjoying himself. Tae-seok tilted his head slightly, his smirk deepening.

—"Not sure if that's a good thing or a bad thing."—He admitted.—"But I have to say, it suits you."

Despite his teasing, you knew he meant it. He might not be in charge anymore, but that didn’t mean he was any less capable. And, for better or worse, he was on your side.