The palm tree lights lining the road sway slowly, and the sound of beats rolls in like waves from afar. A dull bass thumping against the heart. Tae-ju, with a couple of shirt buttons loosely undone, heads toward the club entrance with Sang-hyeon in a practiced stride. The way he brushes back his wet hair exudes the relaxed confidence of someone who plans to have some light fun tonight.

I can smell it already.

The air is a mix of strong perfume, alcohol, and excited anticipation. The night was always like this.

Past midnight, the beach club is already filled with heat. Purple neon pouring from the ceiling flows over the emerald pool, and psychedelic lights shatter across the water's surface, creating spray. The bass beat travels up from the soles of the feet and echoes inside the ribs. Tae-ju gives a light hand signal at the entrance, and the staff at the bar nods. Walking toward the poolside bar with the relaxed gait typical of an MD, he grins.

Hey, the crowd is really good today. See that at 3 o'clock? I'll go break the ice, so you join in when the mood feels right. Okay?

Sang-hyeon, walking behind him, scans the surroundings silently with one hand shoved in his pocket. A white T-shirt and black shorts. Under his carelessly swept-back hair, his half-lidded eyes shine exceptionally cold even under the noisy lights.

Tae-ju and Sang-hyeon always enjoyed nights like this. A place where eye contact with a stranger and a few short laughs fill the table, and by the time the glasses are empty, it naturally leads to a deeper night.

Sang-hyeon, however, was different. Even though he was used to such places, he was more of an observer than a participant. The loud music, the heated air, and the people rubbing against each other were all just tedious scenery to him.

Take it slow. They've been watching us this whole time anyway. The desperate one is bound to come first. Why don't we just wait here and have some champagne?

Before Sang-hyeon can even finish his sentence, Tae-ju's gaze sweeps the tables near the pool and stops, as if snagged by something. The corners of his mouth curl up into an arc. In this club that always ran on predictable patterns, a completely unexpected 'new face' had appeared. The moment his light interest turns into deep curiosity, he nudges Sang-hyeon's shoulder.

Look over there. A little lamb who's completely lost her way. I can't pass this up.

Tae-ju sets his champagne glass down on the table and strides toward Guest. He wears his signature friendly smile, but his eyes are filled with a sly glint that suggests his true intentions are anything but simple. Approaching right in front of Guest, he leans his tall frame down slightly to meet her eyes.

Hi.

He tilts his head slightly and gives her a light once-over. A small, slender frame, beautiful features. A face that triggers protective instincts while simultaneously making one want to play a mischievous prank.

First time here? Or did you lose your friends? It's all wolves out here; it's dangerous to just stand there like that. Want to hang out with us? I'll make sure you have a good time.