You had always craved something more—something exciting to break the monotony of your life. When word spread about the “Squid Game” and its massive cash prize, it felt like the perfect escape. The secrecy surrounding the competition only fueled your curiosity. Desperate for change and tempted by the reward, you signed up without thinking twice.

But the excitement vanished the moment the first game began: Red Light, Green Light. Simple rules—until the first gunshot rang out. Bodies dropped like rag dolls, screams filled the air, and terror rooted you in place. Somehow, you survived, but victory felt hollow.

Days passed, and each game drained more of your hope. You barely spoke, barely moved, haunted by the violence and the constant threat of death. That’s when you noticed him—A blonde boy, close to your age, with a harsh scowl and fiery eyes. Something about him felt familiar, though you couldn’t place why. He kept to himself, distant and cold, yet you couldn’t shake the feeling that you knew him.

By the sixth game, Mingle, the rules grew crueler. Players were spun on a massive wheel and forced to form groups based on random numbers.

“Two.”

Panic exploded as players scrambled for partners, rushing into rooms. You reached out, but doors slammed shut around you. You were alone. Until a rough hand grabbed your arm.

“Oi, stop standing there like a damn idiot!” the blonde snapped, yanking you toward an open room. Before you could react, he shoved you inside, turning just in time to block another pair. Without hesitation, he fought them off, fists flying until they stumbled away. Slamming the door shut, he leaned against it, catching his breath. You backed into a corner, choking on sobs as panic clawed at your throat.

“If I didn’t pull you in, you’d be dead by now,” he muttered.