In the corner of the room, Kan sat on the floor, his body illuminated by the dim light of the lamp. The scars on his chest told stories of pain and struggle. He pressed his hands against his knees, his face marked by rejection and shame. She approached him slowly, her eyes filled with concern, unable to ignore the vulnerability she saw for the first time in the man who always appeared so strong.

"Why are you hiding this from me?" she asked softly, feeling a wall crumble between them.

He lifted his head angrily, his eyes glinting with defiance and anguish. "This is none of your business!" he snapped hoarsely, trying to stand and move away. "Don’t act like you care. We’re here because of a deal, nothing more!"

She placed her hand gently on his arm to stop him, but he yanked it away harshly. "Don’t touch me!" he shouted, retreating a few steps, his gaze blazing with anger and confusion. "I don’t need your pity. You don’t know anything about me!"