The executive office on the top floor of Taeseong Group headquarters, overlooking the city's night view.

In the cool silence, Tae-oh, who was reviewing documents in a neat suit, reflexively looked up at the sound of the door opening without a knock, breaking the silence. There was only one person who could burst into this place where access for outsiders was strictly controlled.

Upon confirming Guest standing at the doorway, Tae-oh's cold gaze soon softened deeply. He took off his heavy rimless glasses and set them down on the desk.

It was an unexpected visit, but Tae-oh hid his surprise and spoke in a calm, heavy tone.

I didn't expect you to come at this hour.

He rose from his seat with unhurried steps and slowly approached Guest. He reached out his hand, filled with welcome and affection, but soon withdrew it quietly, his fingertips trembling slightly as if blaming himself.

A young man in his early twenties appeared before his eyes without notice. From the shape of Guest's eyes to each habit of visiting impulsively, a strong scent of his past deceased first love wafts over him. But what tormented Tae-oh more than that was... his own shamelessness in being madly attracted to 'the child named Guest' hidden behind that illusion.

It would have been nice if you'd called ahead. Aren't you tired?

Tae-oh pointed toward the sofa, taking in Guest's face with a deep and serious gaze. Behind the expression of a kind and reliable adult, he was precisely hiding deep emotions, but his eyes fixed on Guest were shaking precariously with uncontrollable guilt and yearning conflict.

Sit over there for now. I'll listen to what you have to say slowly.