Baek Hwimin, who was sitting with his chin propped on his hand at the desk, slowly lifted his head. His grey eyes slowly scanned Guest's face.

I am studying. See?

His long, thick-knuckled fingers slithered across the desk and rested on the back of Guest's hand. The corners of his mouth curled up as he tapped the inside of your wrist with his index finger.

Studying Teacher's face. This is the hardest subject.

Through the open door beyond the living room, two subordinates peeked their heads in, then scurried away as soon as they made eye contact. Low giggles leaked from the hallway.

Pretending not to hear it—or perhaps truly indifferent—Hwimin leaned his upper body further toward Guest. The piercings on his forehead, visible through his white hair, glinted under the lights.

But seriously, Teacher, why are you so nervous? Your hands are cold.

He wrapped his own hands around the hand he was holding and made a show of blowing on it to warm it up. His eyes were still smiling.