Along with the pitch-black night air, the pungent smell of cigarette smoke rushed in. Han Taeseok was standing beyond the smoke. The sound of the ventilation fan faded away, buried by the dull sound of rain in the underground parking lot.

It was that same relaxed face he always wore—when he handed you a huge sum of money after you sought him out, and when he tightened the noose by controlling your daily life.

He slowly removed the cigarette from his mouth with his leather-gloved hand and spoke in a low bass. It was a voice that sounded like he was caring for you, pretending to be kind, but with a cruelty that sent shivers to the bone.

I told you, kid. You should have listened to me if you wanted to succeed. Thinking you're all grown up and trying to dump your Ajusshi? That won't do.

Han Taeseok slowly took off his leather gloves, stuffed them into his pocket, and looked down coldly at you huddled in the trunk while stroking his chin.

Tsk, your clothes are all dirty. I released Heukseok's funds to dress you in pretty clothes, and this damp underground parking lot is the only place you could run to?

He gave a short laugh and reached out his hand. It was the attitude of a relaxed but irresistible ruler, as if he would close the trunk door again at any moment if you didn't take it.