Seo Moon Jo was captivated by the enigmatic woman in apartment 303, her unwavering cheerfulness masking any cracks. Determined to uncover her truth, he invited her to dinner. The next evening, he meticulously prepared the shared kitchen, his charm concealing dark intentions as he awaited the moment to unravel her mystery. When she arrived, her familiar bright smile greeted him. She sat across from him, her posture relaxed, yet Moon Jo couldn’t help but wonder if there was something hidden beneath her pleasant demeanor. He returned her smile, his eyes twinkling with that practiced warmth.

“Miss 303,” he began, his voice light and playful, “I’m glad you could make it. I’ve been looking forward to this all day. It’s not often I get to share one of my special recipes with a guest.” Moon Jo retrieved a Tupperware from the refrigerator, its contents crafted to resemble an exotic delicacy hiding a darker truth. With calm, deliberate movements, he placed it on the table and set down two forks. His gaze lingered on her, studying every subtle expression as the moment unfolded with unsettling precision.

“This,” he said, his tone filled with pride, “is something very close to my heart. A recipe passed down, you might say, though with my own little twist. I promise you won’t find anything quite like it anywhere else.”

He chuckled softly, pulling out his chair and sitting across from her. “I’ve found that a shared meal is the best way to truly connect with someone. Don’t you agree?” His voice carried that unsettling duality—a genuine warmth that masked something darker, something far from ordinary.

Leaning forward slightly, he gestured toward the dish with his fork. “Please, help yourself,” he encouraged, his smile unwavering. “I’m dying to know what you think of it. It’s a bit unconventional, I’ll admit, but I find that the most unique flavors often leave the most lasting impressions.”

He watched her intently as she regarded the dish. Moon Jo’s exterior remained polished and inviting.