Archive of Our Own

Lee Soo Hyuk’s consciousness felt heavy as if he were rising from the depths of an ocean. His senses returned one by one: the smell of warm sunlight on the grass, the distant chirp of birds. Slowly, he opened his eyes.

Blue sky.

He sat up abruptly, his heart pounding as if pulled out of a deep sleep. His body felt strange—small, light. His breath hitched when he looked down at his hands. They weren’t the calloused, larger hands of a man who’d seen too much. No, they were smaller, soft, the hands of a child.

“What…?” His voice trembled, too high-pitched for his liking. His pulse raced as realisation hit him like a crashing wave. He was in the body of his younger self—no older than ten.

“Hyung!”

The voice was so familiar that it almost made him forget his panic for a moment. He turned his head, spotting Choi Jung Soo running toward him with wide eyes and an expression of disbelief. 

“Hyung, is this real? Are we really…?”

Soo Hyuk’s throat tightened. It wasn’t a dream. Jung Soo was standing before him, also a child, his wild hair and energetic presence just like it had been. He was much shorter, his frame smaller, yet his eyes were filled with the same fiery determination.

“I… I think so,” Soo Hyuk managed to say, still piecing everything together. The last thing he remembered—before this—was the sound of a monster growl. The smell of blood. Death.

They had died. But somehow, they were here. Alive. Children again.

“We regressed,” Jung Soo whispered, almost to himself, his voice shaky but filled with a strange excitement. He looked down at his own hands, flexing his fingers as if to confirm it. “We actually regressed.”

“But why? How?” Soo Hyuk murmured, his mind still racing to comprehend the impossible situation.

Before they could discuss further, a darker thought clawed at the back of Soo Hyuk’s mind. Kim Rok Soo.

His expression darkened. He stood up abruptly, startling Jung Soo. “We need to find Rok Soo.”

Jung Soo blinked, his excitement fading as he caught the urgency in Soo Hyuk’s tone. “You think…?”

Soo Hyuk nodded grimly. “If we’re here, then so is he. But this time… this time he’s already suffering.”

Jung Soo’s face fell. They both remembered that night. Kim Rok Soo, with a rare moment of vulnerability, had told them about the abuse he’d endured as a child at the hands of his uncle, Kim Seong Jong. His parents’ deaths had left him at the mercy of a man who, in the beginning, was kind but later fell into gambling and alcohol, his cruelty surfacing over time.

“We have to save him,” Soo Hyuk said, his voice steady but filled with a quiet fury. “We couldn’t before. We didn’t know. But this time…”

“This time we’ll protect him,” Jung Soo finished, clenching his fists. His usual carefree demeanour was overshadowed by a rare, intense focus.

“We’ll do it right.”

It had been days since they had regressed, and Lee Soo Hyuk and Choi Jung Soo were no closer to finding Kim Rok Soo. The city seemed so much bigger now that they were back in their childhood bodies, and the weight of urgency gnawed at them both. Soo Hyuk’s calm demeanour was holding, but beneath it, a storm was brewing. Every day that passed, he could only think of the abuse Kim Rok Soo was already suffering.

“We need to think this through,” Soo Hyuk muttered to Jung Soo as they sat by the playground, scanning the faces of the children who passed by.

“Yeah, but where could he be? I mean, he’s gotta go to school, right?” Jung Soo replied, his foot tapping nervously against the ground.

Soo Hyuk frowned. “Not necessarily. If his uncle is as bad as we remember, there’s no guarantee he’s sending Kim Rok Soo to school regularly.”

Jung Soo sighed, running a hand through his messy hair. “Then what? Do we just keep wandering around hoping we bump into him?”

Soo Hyuk’s eyes narrowed in thought. “No. If he’s not at school or anywhere we’d expect him to be… then he’s hiding. Somewhere quiet. Somewhere out of sight.”

Jung Soo glanced at him. “You think he’s hiding from his uncle?”

Soo Hyuk nodded. “That’s what I’d do if I were in his position.”

After a long silence, Jung Soo stood up with a determined look on his face. “Then let’s search. Somewhere quiet, somewhere no one would think to look.”

The streets were cold, and the sun had begun to set by the time they found him. It was Jung Soo who spotted him first, tucked away in an alley far from the main road, behind a cluster of old apartment buildings. His heart dropped at the sight.

“Hyung… over here,” Jung Soo whispered, gesturing to Soo Hyuk as they carefully approached.

Kim Rok Soo sat huddled against the wall, knees pulled tightly to his chest, arms wrapped around his shivering frame. He looked so small, painfully thin, as if he hadn’t eaten properly in weeks. His frail body was swallowed by an oversized, worn-out jacket that barely clung to him, full of holes and frayed seams, offering no real warmth against the biting cold. Every gust of wind seemed to pass right through him.

The jacket, though clearly old and insufficient, was meticulously clean—washed by his own tiny hands. The fabric was still damp, as if he'd washed it in desperation earlier that day, struggling to scrub away the dirt and stains that stubbornly remained. There were smudges he couldn’t get rid of, marks that no child his age should have to deal with. Yet he kept trying, holding onto the last fragile threads of dignity he had left.

The sight of him—starved and bruised—made Soo Hyuk’s chest tighten with a mix of anger and sorrow. Kim Rok Soo's face was pale, his cheeks hollow, and his eyes… they were empty. Sunken, deep, and devoid of light. It was as if everything that made him who he was had been sucked out, leaving only the shell of a boy behind.

Soo Hyuk clenched his fists, a silent promise forming in his heart. This won’t happen again. I won’t let him suffer like this.

But before he could say anything, Jung Soo moved forward quietly. He didn’t speak at first, just sat down beside Kim Rok Soo, close but not too close. He was always good at this—getting people to open up without scaring them off.

For a moment, Kim Rok Soo didn’t even seem to register their presence. His eyes remained fixed on the ground, lost in his own world of pain and isolation.

“Hey,” Jung Soo said softly, pulling a chocolate bar from his pocket. “You hungry?”

No response.

Jung Soo unwrapped the chocolate slowly, taking a small bite before extending it toward Kim Rok Soo. “It’s really good. You should have some.”

For the first time, Kim Rok Soo’s eyes flickered, glancing at the chocolate bar. But the moment passed, and he looked away again, his body curling in on itself even more.

Jung Soo didn’t give up. He reached into his bag and pulled out a small packet of biscuits, placing them gently on the ground next to Kim Rok Soo. “I’ve got these too. You don’t have to say anything. Just… if you’re hungry, they’re yours.”

Soo Hyuk watched the interaction in silence, his heart heavy. Kim Rok Soo wasn’t just starving for food—he was starving for safety, for comfort, for someone to care. But in his world, there was no one. Not anymore. 

Jung Soo stayed beside him, his voice soft and patient. “It’s okay. You don’t have to be afraid. We’re here now.”

For a long time, Kim Rok Soo didn’t move. But slowly, his hand reached out, trembling as it hovered over the packet of biscuits. He picked it up with shaky fingers, tearing it open with more effort than it should have taken.

He took a small bite. Then another. And another.

Jung Soo smiled softly, watching as the boy ate in silence. He didn’t push him to speak, didn’t ask questions. He just sat there, offering warmth in his presence alone.

Soo Hyuk knelt beside them, his heart breaking at the sight. He gently placed his hand on Kim Rok Soo’s shoulder, his voice low but filled with quiet strength. “We’re not going to leave you, Rok Soo. Not this time.”

Kim Rok Soo froze for a moment, his body tense as if the very idea of being cared for was foreign to him. His sunken eyes flickered again, glancing at Soo Hyuk with a mixture of fear and confusion.

But the longer they stayed with him, the more he seemed to relax, just slightly. Enough to finish the packet of biscuits.

Soo Hyuk and Jung Soo exchanged a look—one filled with silent understanding. This was only the beginning. Kim Rok Soo was a broken child, but they would fix this. They would protect him, no matter what it took.

“We’re here for you,” Jung Soo said softly, his voice filled with determination. “We’re not going anywhere.”

For the first time since they had regressed, Soo Hyuk felt a flicker of hope. They had found him. Now, they just had to save him. 

Later that evening, after they had taken Kim Rok Soo to a quiet, safer place—a small hideout behind an abandoned building—they sat in silence. Kim Rok Soo had fallen asleep, his small frame curled up in a corner, wrapped in an old blanket they’d found for him. His breathing was shallow, and even in sleep, his face was tense, as if he couldn’t let go of the fear.

Lee Soo Hyuk sat with his back against the wall, his eyes never leaving Kim Rok Soo. Beside him, Choi Jung Soo stretched his legs out, staring at the stars beginning to peek out in the night sky.

“He doesn’t remember,” Jung Soo said softly, breaking the silence. “The pre-regression stuff. He doesn’t know us. Not really.”

Soo Hyuk nodded, his gaze heavy. They’d tried to talk to Kim Rok Soo earlier, to explain that they were his friends and they wanted to help him. But Kim Rok Soo’s reactions had been distant, confused. He didn’t recognize them—not fully. To him, they were strangers offering food and warmth in a world where he had neither.

“It’s probably for the best,” Soo Hyuk murmured, his voice quiet but laced with sorrow. “He’s suffered enough. If he had those memories too, it might break him.”

Jung Soo sighed deeply, running a hand through his hair. “But still… it’s hard, you know? Looking at him like this. Knowing what he’s been through. And we had no idea.”

The guilt hung between them, thick and suffocating. In their previous life, they’d known Kim Rok Soo for years, fought alongside him, and trusted him with their lives. But they didn't know. Not really. Kim Rok Soo had always been quiet about his past, and when he’d finally told them about the abuse, it had been long after the fact. By then, it was too late to change anything. 

But now…

“He was just a kid,” Jung Soo said, his voice breaking slightly. “And we didn’t even notice. All those times we were joking around, having fun… we never knew he was going through this.”

Soo Hyuk closed his eyes, the memories flooding back. He remembered the quiet moments when Kim Rok Soo would sit with them, always a little distant, always a little guarded. At the time, they hadn’t thought much of it. They just assumed he was the serious type, someone who didn’t like to show too much emotion. But now, seeing him like this—broken and bruised—it was clear just how much he had been hiding.

“We failed him,” Soo Hyuk whispered, his voice filled with regret. “In our past life, we failed him.”

Jung Soo bit his lip, a flicker of anger crossing his face. “Not this time. This time, we’ll protect him. We’ll get him out of that house. We’ll make sure he never has to suffer again.”

Soo Hyuk nodded, his resolve hardening. “We can’t undo what happened before, but we can make sure he has a better life now.”

Kim Rok Soo woke up before dawn. He didn’t move at first, just lay there, staring at the cracked ceiling of the hideout. His body was sore, the bruises on his arms and legs throbbing, but it wasn’t the pain that bothered him. It was the strange feeling of not knowing what to expect.

He had no idea why these two boys—who were barely older than him—had taken him in, or why they were so kind to him. He didn’t understand why they cared. In this world, people don’t just help each other out of kindness. Everyone wanted something in return.

Slowly, he sat up, pulling the blanket tighter around his thin frame. His eyes flickered over to where Lee Soo Hyuk and Choi Jung Soo sat nearby, talking quietly between themselves. They noticed him stirring, and both immediately looked his way.

“Morning, Rok Soo,” Jung Soo said with a bright smile, his voice soft but cheerful. “How are you feeling?”

Kim Rok Soo blinked, his expression guarded as always. He didn’t answer, just stared at them with those deep, hollow eyes.

Soo Hyuk stood up and walked over, kneeling in front of him. “We’ve got some food. Are you hungry?”

Again, Kim Rok Soo didn’t respond at first. He was still trying to figure out what they wanted from him. But eventually, he gave a small nod.

Jung Soo quickly pulled out another packet of biscuits and a bottle of water, handing them to Kim Rok Soo. “Here you go. Eat up.”

Kim Rok Soo hesitated, glancing between the two of them, but the hunger gnawing at his stomach won out. He took the biscuits and began eating quietly, his movements slow and cautious, as if he were afraid they might take the food away at any moment.

Watching him, Soo Hyuk felt another wave of guilt wash over him. This wasn’t how a child should live—starving, bruised, and afraid. But what hit him the hardest was that empty look in Kim Rok Soo’s eyes. It was as if he had already given up on being saved.

“We’re here to help you,” Soo Hyuk said gently, his voice low. “You don’t have to be afraid, Rok Soo.”

Kim Rok Soo glanced up at him briefly but said nothing. His face remained expressionless, guarded.

Jung Soo scooted closer, giving Kim Rok Soo a wide grin. “You know, we’re pretty good at taking care of people. We’re gonna make sure you’re safe from now on.”

But Kim Rok Soo just kept eating, his eyes never meeting theirs.

Soo Hyuk’s chest tightened. “He doesn’t remember us,” he murmured under his breath, just loud enough for Jung Soo to hear.

Jung Soo nodded solemnly. “Yeah. It’s like we’re starting from scratch.”

For a long time, they just sat there in silence, watching Kim Rok Soo eat. Soo Hyuk knew that it would take time—time for Kim Rok Soo to trust them, time for him to believe that they weren’t going to abandon him like everyone else had. But they didn’t have time. The longer Kim Rok Soo stayed in his uncle’s care, the worse things would get.

“I wish we could just take him away,” Jung Soo whispered, his voice filled with frustration. “But we’re kids too. No one’s gonna listen to us.”

Soo Hyuk nodded grimly. That was the hardest part of all this. They were stuck in the bodies of children, with no authority, and no power to legally protect Kim Rok Soo. If they just tried to run away with him, it wouldn’t be long before they were caught, and Kim Rok Soo would be sent right back to his uncle.

But even so, Soo Hyuk wasn’t going to give up. “We’ll find a way,” he said, his voice filled with quiet determination. “We have to.”

Jung Soo gave him a small, hopeful smile. “Yeah. We’ll figure something out.”

Kim Rok Soo, still sitting quietly between them, finished the last of the biscuits. He looked at the empty packet for a moment, then finally spoke, his voice small and hesitant. “Why… Why are you helping me?”

The question hit them both like a punch to the gut. Kim Rok Soo didn’t understand. He didn’t think he was worth helping.

Soo Hyuk’s expression softened, and he looked Kim Rok Soo straight in the eye. “Because you deserve it, Rok Soo. You deserve to be safe, to be happy.”

Jung Soo nodded eagerly. “Yeah! We’re not gonna let anyone hurt you anymore. Not your uncle, not anyone.”

Kim Rok Soo stared at them for a long moment, his deep eyes unreadable. Then, without a word, he turned his gaze away, curling up again under the blanket. He didn’t believe them. Not yet. There is no way someone would do anything for free

It had been a few days since Lee Soo Hyuk and Choi Jung Soo found Kim Rok Soo in that cold alleyway. The bruises on Kim Rok Soo’s body and the hollow look in his eyes confirmed their worst fears—he was already being abused by his uncle. They did not doubt that things would only get worse if they didn’t do something.

Lee Soo Hyuk had been spending time figuring out the best way to intervene. As the oldest of the three, he knew that direct confrontation wouldn’t work—they were still kids in the eyes of adults. But he couldn’t just stand by and let this continue. So he started asking questions around Kim Rok Soo’s neighbourhood, speaking quietly to neighbours, and trying to find adults who might have noticed something. He hoped that a teacher or neighbour might have enough influence to intervene without raising too much suspicion.

Choi Jung Soo, on the other hand, focused on keeping Kim Rok Soo’s spirits up. He stuck close to Kim Rok Soo, talking to him about anything and everything, trying to make him laugh or at least crack a smile. He brought snacks, played games, and even tried to get Kim Rok Soo to talk about his dreams and what he wanted for his future. Little by little, Kim Rok Soo started responding—if only with small nods or brief answers. He wasn’t used to kindness, but Choi Jung Soo was determined to show him that he deserved it.

But despite their efforts, they both knew that time was running out. They needed to act.

The day came when they couldn’t wait any longer. Lee Soo Hyuk had managed to find out where Kim Rok Soo’s uncle, Kim Seong Jong, usually spent his afternoons—at a rundown bar in the poorer part of town. It wasn’t much of a lead, but it was all they had. 

“We’re doing this today,” Soo Hyuk said firmly to Jung Soo as they stood outside the bar. 

Jung Soo’s expression was serious, a rare look for him. “Are you sure this is the best way? What if it goes wrong?”

Soo Hyuk’s jaw clenched. “We don’t have time to wait for the perfect solution. If we don’t do something, Kim Rok Soo could get hurt again.”

Jung Soo nodded. “Then let’s do it.”

Inside the bar, the air was thick with the smell of alcohol and cigarette smoke. The dim lighting did little to hide the grimy interior, and at one of the tables sat Kim Seong Jong, half-drunk and hunched over a glass of whiskey. His eyes were bloodshot, and there was a cruel, lazy smile on his face as he talked to the bartender.

Soo Hyuk and Jung Soo approached cautiously, keeping their distance at first. They could see Kim Rok Soo’s uncle clearly now—the man who had turned their friend’s life into a nightmare.

Soo Hyuk’s fists clenched at his sides. He wanted to do more than just confront him. He wanted to make him pay for what he had done. But he knew that they had to be smart about this. 

“Excuse me,” Soo Hyuk said, his voice calm but firm.

Seong Jong looked up, his drunken gaze narrowing at the sight of the two boys. “What do you want?”

Soo Hyuk took a deep breath, steeling himself. “We know what you’re doing to Kim Rok Soo. It has to stop.”

For a moment, there was silence. Then Seong Jong’s face twisted into an ugly sneer. “Mind your own business, kid. You don’t know what you’re talking about.”

Jung Soo stepped forward, his usual lightheartedness gone. “We’re not going to let you hurt him anymore.”

Seong Jong laughed, a harsh, bitter sound. “And what are you gonna do about it, huh? Cry? You think you can stop me?” His gaze darkened, and his voice dropped to a menacing growl. “You think I won’t hurt you too?”

In that instant, Seong Jong stood up, towering over the two boys. His hand twitched as if he were about to strike them. Jung Soo took a step back, his body tense, but Soo Hyuk didn’t move. 

“You lay a hand on him again,” Soo Hyuk said, his voice cold and unyielding, “and you’ll regret it.”

For a moment, Seong Jong stared at him, fury building in his bloodshot eyes. Then, with a sudden movement, he swung his hand, aiming straight for Soo Hyuk’s face.

But before the blow could land, Jung Soo grabbed Kim Rok Soo’s uncle’s arm, pulling him back with surprising strength. Seong Jong snarled, yanking his arm free and raising his fist again, this time with more force.

“We need to go!” Soo Hyuk hissed, grabbing Jung Soo’s arm and pulling him back. “Now!”

They bolted from the bar, their hearts pounding in their chests. Behind them, they could hear Seong Jong shouting threats, promising that he’d make Kim Rok Soo pay for this. The words sent a chill down their spines.

They ran through the streets, their breaths ragged as they raced back to the hideout where Kim Rok Soo was waiting. 

“Rok Soo! We have to go now!” Jung Soo called out as soon as they reached him.

Kim Rok Soo, startled, looked up at them, his expression filled with confusion. “Why? What happened?”

“There’s no time to explain,” Soo Hyuk said, grabbing Kim Rok Soo by the hand. “We need to get you out of here. It’s not safe.”

Without another word, they took off again, running through the city streets, never stopping until they reached a familiar, comforting neighbourhood—Soo Hyuk’s own. His house was just a few blocks away, and they could see the lights on through the windows.

When they finally reached the front door, Soo Hyuk knocked urgently, his breath still coming in quick gasps. It wasn’t long before the door flew open, revealing a worried woman—Soo Hyuk’s mother, Lee Hye Jin.

“Lee Soo Hyuk! Where on earth have you been?!” she exclaimed, her voice thick with concern.

Soo Hyuk lowered his head, feeling a pang of guilt. He hadn’t been home the night before, too focused on helping Kim Rok Soo, and he knew his mother must have been worried sick. “I’m sorry, but… something happened. We need your help.”

She looked past him, her eyes landing on the two boys standing behind him—Jung Soo and the small, frail figure of Kim Rok Soo. Her face softened with understanding as she took in Kim Rok Soo’s appearance—the bruises, the thin frame, the fearful eyes.

“What happened?” Lee Hye Jin asked quietly, ushering them all inside.

Soo Hyuk took a deep breath and started explaining everything—how Kim Rok Soo had been living with his abusive uncle, how they had found him, and how his uncle had threatened to hurt them. The more he spoke, the more his mother’s expression darkened with worry and anger.

When he finished, Lee Hye Jin knelt in front of Kim Rok Soo, her voice gentle but firm. “You’re safe now, Rok Soo. We’re going to protect you, okay?”

Kim Rok Soo, still trembling from the shock of everything that had happened, didn’t say a word. But the look in his eyes—scared but hopeful—was enough for Soo Hyuk’s mother to understand.

“We’ll figure this out,” she said, standing up and giving Soo Hyuk a reassuring nod. “We’ll keep him safe.”

It had been a few days since Lee Soo Hyuk and Choi Jung Soo brought Kim Rok Soo to Soo Hyuk’s home. The first night was filled with tension, fear, and confusion as Kim Rok Soo tried to understand why these two boys were risking so much for him. He doesn’t know them, and his trust had been shattered by years of neglect and abuse.

Soo Hyuk’s mother had immediately stepped in, preparing a warm meal, setting up a comfortable room, and treating Kim Rok Soo with the gentle kindness he hadn’t experienced in what felt like a lifetime. Despite her efforts, Kim Rok Soo remained quiet, wary of the sudden changes in his life.

He wasn’t used to kindness. He wasn’t used to feeling safe.

The sun was just beginning to rise when Kim Rok Soo woke up. He lay still in the unfamiliar bed, staring at the soft, clean blankets that covered him. His body still ached from the bruises, but the pain was duller now.

Despite the warmth and comfort, there was an uneasy feeling in his chest. Why were they helping him? What did they want in return?

He couldn’t shake the memories of his uncle’s threats, the cold nights spent wondering if he’d ever escape that house. It didn’t make sense that anyone would care about him. He didn’t know these boys—Lee Soo Hyuk and Choi Jung Soo. Not really. They were strangers who had shown up out of nowhere and offered him food and safety. But for how long?

He pushed the blankets off and slowly got out of bed, padding quietly down the hall. The house was still and quiet, and for a moment, he considered running. But where would he go? There was nowhere else.

As he stepped into the kitchen, he found Lee Soo Hyuk sitting at the table, a glass of milk in his hand. He looked up, his calm eyes meeting Kim Rok Soo’s uncertain gaze.

“Morning,” Soo Hyuk greeted him softly. “You slept okay?”

Rok Soo nodded, not trusting himself to speak. His throat felt tight, and he didn’t know why.

Soo Hyuk gestured to the table where a small breakfast had been set out—bread, eggs, and fruit. “Help yourself. my mom made extra.”

Kim Rok Soo hesitated. The food looked inviting, but the gnawing doubt in his chest held him back. What if they expected something from him later? What if this kindness came with a price?

Soo Hyuk must have noticed the hesitation because he spoke again, his voice gentle but firm. “You don’t have to be afraid, Rok Soo. We’re not going to hurt you. You can eat as much as you want.”

Kim Rok Soo’s eyes flickered between the food and Soo Hyuk’s calm expression. Slowly, he moved forward and sat down at the table. His hands shook slightly as he reached for a piece of bread, but he forced himself to eat. The taste of warm food in his mouth felt foreign, like a luxury he hadn’t earned.

Later that morning, Choi Jung Soo barged into the room with his usual energy, a playful grin on his face. “Rok Soo! You wanna come outside with us? There’s a park nearby, and it’s got this huge jungle gym. I bet I can beat you to the top!”

Kim Rok Soo blinked, still chewing on a piece of fruit. He hadn’t expected the loud, carefree energy, and for a moment, he wasn’t sure how to respond. His old self would have been drawn to the challenge and would have run after Jung Soo without a second thought. But now? Now he wasn’t that kid anymore.

“I… I’m not sure,” Rok Soo muttered, his voice barely above a whisper.

Jung Soo’s grin faltered, but only for a second. “That’s okay! We don’t have to go if you don’t want to.” He plopped down in the chair next to Kim Rok Soo and started munching on a piece of fruit as if nothing was wrong. “What do you like to do then?”

Kim Rok Soo shrugged. He didn’t really know what he liked anymore. Lately, all his thoughts had been about surviving.

Soo Hyuk, who had been observing quietly, spoke up. “You don’t have to decide right now. We’ll just hang out together, okay? No pressure.”

Jung Soo nodded enthusiastically. “Yeah! We’ll do whatever you want. Or we can just sit around and do nothing. That’s fun too.”

Kim Rok Soo looked between the two boys, unsure of what to make of them. They were so… different. There was no cruelty in their words, no hidden motives. They treated him like he was just another kid—like he mattered.

It felt strange. It felt scary. It felt suspicious.

But it also felt a little bit… comforting.

Over the next few days, Lee Soo Hyuk and Choi Jung Soo worked quietly to help Kim Rok Soo settle in. They didn’t push him to talk about his past or force him into activities he wasn’t ready for. Instead, they let him take his time, offering small gestures of kindness without expecting anything in return.

Jung Soo was the most vocal of the two, always chattering away about random things—his favourite games, the best spots in the park, and stories from school. He never pressured Kim Rok Soo to join in, but he always made sure to include him in the conversation, as if Kim Rok Soo had been part of their group all along.

Soo Hyuk was quieter and more reserved, but his actions spoke volumes. He made sure Kim Rok Soo had everything he needed—a warm bed, clean clothes, food on the table. Whenever Kim Rok Soo looked uncertain or scared, Soo Hyuk would step in, his calm presence reassuring him that everything was okay.

Bit by bit, Kim Rok Soo began to relax. It wasn’t much, but he stopped flinching at every loud noise. He stopped expecting the worst every time someone raised their voice. Slowly, he started to trust these two strange boys who had taken him in without asking for anything in return.

But trust didn’t come easily. There were still moments when Kim Rok Soo would pull back, his defences rising when he thought something was too good to be true. He still didn’t understand why they were helping him. What did they gain from this?

One afternoon, as they sat in the living room, Kim Rok Soo finally asked the question that had been weighing on his mind.

“Why… why are you doing this?”

Soo Hyuk, who had been reading a book, looked up, his brow furrowed in confusion. “Doing what?”

Kim Rok Soo’s voice was barely a whisper. “Helping me. Why are you helping me?”

For a moment, neither Soo Hyuk nor Jung Soo spoke. The question hung in the air, heavy with the weight of Kim Rok Soo’s mistrust.

Finally, Jung Soo broke the silence, his usual playful demeanour replaced with quiet sincerity. “Because we care about you, Rok Soo. You don’t have to go through this alone. Not anymore.”

Kim Rok Soo’s eyes flickered with doubt. “But… why? I’m nobody.”

Soo Hyuk’s expression softened, and he put his book down. “You’re not nobody. You’re our friend.”

Kim Rok Soo looked at them both, struggling to believe their words. He wanted to believe them—wanted to believe that he wasn’t alone anymore. But years of pain and neglect had taught him that nothing came without a price.

Soo Hyuk must have seen the uncertainty in Kim Rok Soo’s eyes because he spoke again, his voice firm but kind. “We’re not expecting anything from you, Rok Soo. You don’t owe us anything. We’re here because we want to help you. That’s it.”

Jung Soo nodded eagerly. “Yeah! We’re family now, okay? And family takes care of each other.”

Kim Rok Soo swallowed hard, his throat tight with emotion. Family. The word felt foreign to him—something distant, unreachable. But as he looked at the two boys sitting across from him, he wondered if maybe, just maybe, he could start to believe in it again.

He didn’t say anything, but in his heart, a small spark of hope began to flicker. It was fragile, barely there, but it was something. And for now, that was enough.

Lee Soo Hyuk and Choi Jung Soo knew they couldn’t keep Kim Rok Soo hidden forever. They had done what they could to shield him, but the shadow of his uncle loomed large. The abuse had to stop, and there was only one way to end it for good: they had to confront Kim Seong Jong directly.

But this time, they wouldn’t be the helpless children they had been the last time. They had a plan.

Soo Hyuk’s voice was steady as he laid out their next steps. “We’re going to end this today. We’ll confront him, but we won’t do it alone.”

Choi Jung Soo nodded. His playful demeanour was gone, replaced by a grim determination. “We’re calling the social system. We’ll get them to arrest him.”

Kim Rok Soo, who was sitting quietly in the corner, looked up, his expression filled with fear. “But… What if it doesn’t work? What if uncle hurts you?”

Soo Hyuk’s gaze softened as he looked at his friend. “He won’t. We won’t let him.”

“We’ve got this,” Jung Soo added with a reassuring grin. “He’s not going to get away with it this time.”

Kim Rok Soo still looked uncertain, his hands twisting nervously in his lap. But he trusted them—more than he had trusted anyone in a long time. And if they believed they could stop his uncle, then maybe it would be okay.

They waited until Kim Seong Jong had returned to his home, the same rundown house where Kim Rok Soo had suffered so much. It was dark now, the sky heavy with clouds, as if the world itself was holding its breath for what was about to happen.

Soo Hyuk and Jung Soo approached the house cautiously. They knew they couldn’t just barge in—they needed to control the situation. Soo Hyuk had already called the social services from a payphone on their way over, making sure they’d be on their way soon. 

When they reached the door, Soo Hyuk knocked firmly, his heart steady even though he knew what kind of man stood on the other side.

A moment later, the door swung open, revealing Kim Seong Jong. His eyes were bloodshot, his body swaying slightly from too much alcohol. He sneered at the sight of them.

“You again?” he spat, his voice slurring with venom. “What do you want?”

Soo Hyuk stepped forward, his posture calm but commanding. “We’re here to end this.”

Seong Jong’s eyes narrowed. “End what?”

“The way you’ve been hurting Kim Rok Soo,” Soo Hyuk said, his voice cold as ice. “It stops today.”

For a moment, Seong Jong looked at them in disbelief. Then, his face twisted into a mask of rage. “You think you can come here and tell me what to do? You’re just kids!”

He lunged forward, his hand swinging toward Soo Hyuk’s face, but this time, Soo Hyuk was ready. He dodged the blow, grabbing Seong Jong’s wrist with surprising strength. Jung Soo quickly moved to help, pulling Seong Jong back with all his might.

But Seong Jong wasn’t done. He pushed them both away with a growl, his movements clumsy but powerful in his drunken state. He swung again, and this time his fist connected with Jung Soo’s side, sending the younger boy stumbling back.

“Get out of here before I make you regret it,” Seong Jong snarled, his eyes wild with anger.

Soo Hyuk clenched his fists, ready to fight if he had to, but he knew they couldn’t escalate things. Not when social services would be arriving any minute now.

He stood his ground, his eyes locked on Seong Jong’s. “You’re done. They’re coming for you.”

Seong Jong’s face twisted in confusion for a split second before he heard the sound of distant sirens. His eyes widened, panic flickering across his face as he realised what was happening.

“You… you called them?” he stammered, his voice filled with disbelief.

Jung Soo, still catching his breath from the blow, grinned despite the pain. “Yeah, we did. You’re going to jail, you bastard.”

Before Seong Jong could react, the sirens grew louder, and a car pulled up in front of the house. Two officers stepped out, followed by a representative from the social services.

“Kim Seong Jong?” one of the officers called out as they approached. “We need to talk to you.”

Seong Jong’s face drained of colour as he realised he had been outsmarted. He tried to bolt, but Soo Hyuk and Jung Soo blocked his path, standing firm despite the pain in their bodies. 

“You’re not getting away,” Soo Hyuk said, his voice low but determined.

The officers moved in quickly, restraining Seong Jong as he shouted and struggled. But it was over. He had lost.

As Seong Jong was led away, the representative from the social services turned to Soo Hyuk and Jung Soo. They were both battered and bruised from the confrontation, but they stood tall, their eyes sharp with victory.

“Are you boys okay?” the representative asked gently.

Soo Hyuk nodded. “We’re fine. But we need to call our parents.”

The representative quickly obliged, and soon enough, both Soo Hyuk’s mother and Jung Soo’s parents were on their way. 

When they arrived, Jung Soo’s parents were frantic with worry. His mother rushed toward him, pulling him into a tight embrace. “Choi Jung Soo, where have you been? We’ve been looking everywhere for you!”

Jung Soo winced slightly from the pain in his side but managed to smile. “I’m okay, Mom. I’m sorry.”

His father’s stern expression softened as he looked at his son. “We’ll talk about this later. Right now, we’re just glad you’re safe.”

Meanwhile, Soo Hyuk’s mother was already at his side, tears streaming down her face as she checked him over for injuries. “Soo Hyuk, what were you thinking? You could’ve been seriously hurt!”

Soo Hyuk, for once, let his mother fuss over him, understanding her fear. “I had to do it, Mom. We had to help him.”

She wiped her tears, her voice soft but filled with pride. “You did a brave thing today. But don’t scare me like that again, okay?”

Kim Rok Soo, who had come with Soo Hyuk’s mother, stood a few feet away, watching the scene unfold. Tears welled up in his eyes as he realised what had happened—Soo Hyuk and Jung Soo had gotten hurt because of him. They had put themselves in danger for his sake, and now they were the ones paying the price.

“I… I’m sorry,” Kim Rok Soo whispered, his voice breaking as the guilt washed over him. “It’s my fault you got hurt.”

Soo Hyuk turned to him, his expression softening. “Rok Soo, none of this is your fault. We chose to help you because we care. Don’t blame yourself.”

Jung Soo, despite the pain in his side, walked over and ruffled Kim Rok Soo’s hair with a gentle smile. “Yeah, Rok Soo. We’ve got your back, okay? That’s what family does.”

Kim Rok Soo couldn’t hold back the tears anymore. He sobbed quietly, his small frame trembling as he finally let go of the guilt and fear that had been weighing him down for so long.

And for the first time in what felt like forever, Kim Rok Soo didn’t feel alone. 

After the chaos of the confrontation and the relief that followed, things calmed down. The social services were taking stock of the situation, and the police had already taken Kim Seong Jong into custody. However, the reality of what would happen to Kim Rok Soo was beginning to sink in.

Soo Hyuk’s mother, Lee Hye Jin, knelt in front of Kim Rok Soo, who was standing nervously beside her. She gently placed a hand on his shoulder, her voice soft but firm.

“Rok Soo, sweetie,” she began, her eyes full of concern, “I need to explain something to you. Your uncle is going to be taken away, and you’re not going back to that house.”

Kim Rok Soo’s eyes widened with fear. “B-but… where am I going?”

Lee Hye Jin’s heart broke at the sight of the terrified boy. “The social services are going to find you a safe place to stay. They’re going to take care of you.”

The words hit him like a punch. Kim Rok Soo had known this was coming, but hearing it confirmed was different. He wasn’t going back to his uncle’s house, but it also meant he had nowhere else to go. His parents were gone. His family was gone.

“I don’t want to go to another place,” he whispered, tears welling up in his eyes. “I don’t want to be alone again.”

Soo Hyuk, who had been standing nearby, took a step closer, his voice quiet but steady. “You won’t be alone, Rok Soo. We’re still here.”

Choi Jung Soo, ever the optimist, leaned in with a bright, albeit tired, smile. “Yeah! You’ll be close to us. I’ll visit you every day, and we’ll hang out just like always.”

Lee Hye Jin nodded, her expression gentle. “There’s an orphanage nearby—just a short walk from here. You’ll be safe, and Soo Hyuk and Jung Soo will be able to visit you whenever they want. I’ll make sure of that.”

Kim Rok Soo’s lip trembled as he processed her words. The orphanage. He had heard about those places from other kids, and they didn’t exactly have a great reputation in his mind. But the thought of being close to Soo Hyuk and Jung Soo made it a little easier to bear.

“Okay,” he whispered, though the fear in his eyes hadn’t completely disappeared.

The social worker, a woman named Ms. Park, stepped forward. She had been watching the scene quietly, giving Kim Rok Soo the space he needed to understand the situation.

“We’re going to take you somewhere safe, Rok Soo,” Ms. Park said gently, her kind eyes meeting him. “It’s just for a little while until we can find a more permanent solution for you. But I promise, we’ll make sure you’re taken care of.”

Kim Rok Soo glanced at her, then back at Soo Hyuk and Jung Soo. He was trembling slightly, clutching the sleeve of his too-large jacket. “Will you really visit me?”

Jung Soo grinned. “Are you kidding? Of course, I will! They’ll have to kick me out if they don’t want me hanging around.”

Soo Hyuk smiled softly, his calm voice adding weight to his words. “We’ll be there, Rok Soo. You’re not alone.”

Kim Rok Soo looked down, tears spilling over his cheeks. “Okay… I trust you.”

Ms. Park led Kim Rok Soo toward her car, her arm around his small shoulders. He cast one last glance back at Soo Hyuk and Jung Soo, who waved as the car pulled away.

Lee Hye Jin watched them go, her heart heavy. She had wanted to take Kim Rok Soo in herself, but the legal complications made it impossible right now. He needed to be placed in the system, even if only temporarily.

“He’ll be alright,” she murmured, more to herself than to anyone else. She turned to the two boys, who looked as though they had aged beyond their years in the past few hours. “You both did a very brave thing today.”

Jung Soo’s usual spark was dimmer than usual, but he forced a smile. “We just want him to be safe.”

Soo Hyuk said nothing, but the determination in his eyes spoke volumes. He had promised to protect Kim Rok Soo, and now that promise would not be broken. He would see this through, no matter what it took.

When Kim Rok Soo arrived at the orphanage, it wasn’t what he had expected. The building was old but well-kept, with tall trees lining the property. It looked more like a large house than an institution, and the staff that welcomed him seemed kind enough. But it still wasn’t home. It wasn’t the life he had before everything had been taken from him.

Ms. Park walked him inside, explaining how things worked there. “You’ll have your own bed and a few roommates. There are other kids here too, so you won’t be alone. The staff will help you with school, and you’ll get meals every day.”

Kim Rok Soo nodded quietly, taking in the information with a blank expression. His thoughts were elsewhere—on the faces of the two boys who had helped him when no one else had. Would they really come to visit him? Or would they forget about him now that the danger was gone?

As Kim Rok Soo was led to his new room, he couldn’t shake the heavy feeling in his chest. He was grateful to be away from his uncle, but the uncertainty of what came next weighed on him.

Sitting on the edge of his bed, he looked around at the unfamiliar space. It was clean, neat, and warm. But it wasn’t his. Nothing in this room held any meaning for him.

Yet, despite everything, a small spark of hope flickered within him. Soo Hyuk and Jung Soo had said they would visit, and something about their words made him believe them.

The days passed slowly after Kim Rok Soo was taken to the orphanage, but things were already beginning to shift. Lee Soo Hyuk and Choi Jung Soo made good on their promise to visit him, often coming by after school or on weekends. At first, Kim Rok Soo had been withdrawn and hesitant, his trust shaky at best. But with each visit, something began to change. 

Though Kim Rok Soo didn’t remember their pre-regression lives, there were small, almost imperceptible signs that the connection they shared was starting to grow stronger—different from before, but powerful nonetheless.

One afternoon, as the three sat outside the orphanage beneath the large oak tree, Jung Soo pulled out a deck of cards from his pocket.

“Wanna play a game?” Jung Soo asked, wiggling his eyebrows in challenge.

Kim Rok Soo, who had been leaning against the tree trunk, looked up with mild interest. He wasn’t usually the competitive type, but Jung Soo’s infectious energy always made him feel a little braver than usual. “What kind of game?”

“Simple! It’s a guessing game, but I’ll teach you how to win,” Jung Soo replied with a wink, shuffling the cards in a way that made Rok Soo suspicious. “The trick is all in the shuffle.”

Soo Hyuk, sitting cross-legged next to them, raised an eyebrow. “Are you teaching him to cheat?”

“Not cheat—just a little… advantage,” Jung Soo said with a grin.

Rok Soo gave a small laugh, shaking his head, but something about this moment felt different for both Jung Soo and Soo Hyuk. Before the regression, he’d always been too reserved to engage in this kind of playful banter. 

When Jung Soo handed him the cards, Rok Soo hesitated only for a second before taking them. “Alright, show me.”

As they played, Soo Hyuk watched quietly, noticing how Kim Rok Soo’s shoulders were a little more relaxed than usual, how his eyes lit up with curiosity instead of guarded wariness. It was a small change, but it was there.

Soo Hyuk exchanged a glance with Jung Soo, who gave him a knowing smile. This was only the beginning.

The subtle changes didn’t stop there. As weeks turned into months, Kim Rok Soo began to grow bolder, more assertive. He still struggled with the scars left behind by his uncle’s abuse, but now, he had something he didn’t have before—people who believed in him.

One day, during a visit, Soo Hyuk noticed a group of older boys harassing one of the younger kids at the orphanage. They were pushing him around, taunting him as the smaller boy tried to hold back his tears.

Rok Soo saw it too, and Soo Hyuk expected his usual reaction—to stay quiet, to avoid the confrontation. But instead, Kim Rok Soo surprised him.

Without a word, Rok Soo walked over to the group and planted himself between the bullies and the younger boy. His expression was calm, but there was a quiet determination in his eyes that hadn’t been there before.

“Leave him alone,” Kim Rok Soo said, his voice firm but not raised. 

The older boys sneered, clearly not expecting a challenge from someone like Kim Rok Soo. “Or what? You're gonna cry?”

Kim Rok Soo didn’t flinch. “No. But if you don’t stop, you’ll be the ones crying. Trust me.”

The tension hung in the air for a moment, but something about the way Rok Soo stood—so sure of himself, so steady—made the bullies think twice. With a few grumbles, they backed off, leaving the younger boy alone.

Rok Soo turned to him and offered a small smile. “You okay?”

The boy nodded, wiping his eyes. “Thanks…”

Soo Hyuk and Jung Soo had watched the entire scene unfold, their expressions reflecting their quiet pride. This was new. This was different from the kid they saved few months ago.

Later that day, as they walked together back toward the orphanage, Jung Soo nudged Kim Rok Soo playfully. “You were like a superhero back there. That was pretty cool.”

Kim Rok Soo blushed, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly. “It wasn’t a big deal…”

“It was,” Soo Hyuk corrected gently. “Standing up for others—especially when it’s hard—that’s a big deal.”

Kim Rok Soo didn’t say anything, but the small smile that tugged at the corner of his lips spoke volumes. He was starting to see himself differently now. Not as the broken, forgotten kid who had been abandoned by fate, but as someone who could make a difference. Someone strong.

The seasons changed, and as time passed, the bond between the three boys deepened. Growing up together in this life, there was a sense of purpose that had never existed before. It was as if the weight of their pre-regression memories pushed Lee Soo Hyuk and Choi Jung Soo to make sure that Kim Rok Soo’s future would be different—better.

They could see it in the small changes: the way Kim Rok Soo smiled more easily now, how he was starting to trust them in ways he hadn’t before. Even without his memories of the previous life, there was an unspoken connection between them that couldn’t be broken.

One evening, while sitting on the rooftop of the orphanage, Soo Hyuk broke the quiet. “Do you ever wonder what your life would’ve been like if none of this had happened?”

Kim Rok Soo glanced up at the sky, his eyes thoughtful. “Sometimes. But… it’s hard to imagine.”

“Does it bother you? Thinking about how things could’ve been different?” Jung Soo asked.

Rok Soo shook his head. “Not really. I mean, things are still hard, but I’ve got you two. So, it’s not so bad.”

Jung Soo grinned, nudging Rok Soo with his elbow. “You’re stuck with us now.”

Soo Hyuk smiled quietly, a warmth settling in his chest. They had done it. Without the memories of his old self weighing him down, Kim Rok Soo was slowly becoming someone stronger, someone who could face the world on his own terms. He might never remember their old life, but that didn’t matter anymore.

Because in this new life, they were building something better together. Something that would last.

And as long as they had each other, the future would be brighter. 

Time passed, and the once-lost children who had found each other in the chaos of the past now stood on the brink of something new. High school was a fresh chapter for Choi Jung Soo and Kim Rok Soo, while Lee Soo Hyuk was already off on his own path, studying acting at a prestigious academy.

Their lives were busier now, filled with exams, dreams, and the push to grow up, but one thing remained unchanged: their bond. In fact, it had grown tighter, more solid with each passing day. What had started as a desperate attempt by Lee Soo Hyuk and Choi Jung Soo to protect Kim Rok Soo had now turned into something deeper—family.

Kim Rok Soo was standing at his locker, sorting through his books, when Choi Jung Soo bounded up to him, his usual bright energy on full display.

“Hey! We should grab something to eat after school today. You free?”

Kim Rok Soo glanced at him, raising an eyebrow. “Don’t you have a club meeting?”

Choi Jung Soo waved a hand dismissively. “Eh, I can skip one day. Besides, we’ve barely hung out this week, and Lee Soo Hyuk hyung is coming home this weekend. We need to celebrate.”

At the mention of Lee Soo Hyuk, Kim Rok Soo’s expression softened. He hadn’t seen the older man in nearly a month, and he missed him more than he wanted to admit. “Fine. But you’re paying.”

Choi Jung Soo laughed, slinging an arm around Kim Rok Soo’s shoulders. “Deal.”

As they walked toward their classroom, Kim Rok Soo couldn’t help but think about how much had changed. Choi Jung Soo was still the same—loud, playful, and full of life. But Kim Rok Soo had changed. He wasn’t the quiet, withdrawn boy he used to be. Thanks to Lee Soo Hyuk and Choi Jung Soo, he had learned to stand on his own two feet. He had friends. No—he had family.

That weekend, Lee Soo Hyuk returned home from the academy. He had grown taller and more mature, his features sharper, his movements more graceful. He had always been calm and collected, but now there was a quiet confidence about him that hinted at the success he was slowly building for himself.

When he arrived at the small café where they had all agreed to meet, Choi Jung Soo was the first to notice him.

“Lee Soo Hyuk hyung!” he called, waving enthusiastically.

Kim Rok Soo turned around just in time to see Lee Soo Hyuk walk in, a wide smile spreading across his face. “Hyung.” he called, standing up to greet him.

Lee Soo Hyuk’s eyes softened when he saw them both. “You guys look good. How’s high school treating you?”

Kim Rok Soo shrugged, slipping back into his seat. “Same as usual. Lots of work.”

Choi Jung Soo grinned, pulling Lee Soo Hyuk into a hug. “I’ve been waiting to hear all about the acting academy! Are you gonna be in a movie soon?”

Lee Soo Hyuk chuckled as he sat down. “Not yet. Still got a long way to go, but things are going well. I’ve been practising a lot, and I’m learning more than I thought I would.”

Kim Rok Soo leaned forward slightly, his eyes filled with quiet admiration. “You’re going to be great, hyung. I know it.”

It wasn’t the first time Kim Rok Soo had called Lee Soo Hyuk “hyung,” but it still made something warm bloom in Lee Soo Hyuk’s chest every time. He hadn’t heard those words in their past life, but now, in this one, it felt natural. 

“Thanks, Rok Soo,” Lee Soo Hyuk replied, ruffling his hair. “You’ve grown too, you know? You’re not the same kid I used to have to protect all the time.”

Kim Rok Soo laughed softly. “Guess I had good teachers.”

Choi Jung Soo pouted, crossing his arms. “Hey, what about me? You should be calling me Hyung too!”

Kim Rok Soo’s smile widened, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “You? Hyung? I don’t think so.”

Choi Jung Soo groaned, slumping back in his chair dramatically. “Why does Lee Soo Hyuk get to be Hyung, but I don’t? I’m older by at least 8 hours!”

“Exactly,” Kim Rok Soo teased. “That’s basically the same age, so why should I call you hyung?”

Choi Jung Soo shot a glare at Lee Soo Hyuk, who was chuckling quietly. “This is all your fault. You’ve spoiled him.”

Lee Soo Hyuk raised his hands in mock defence. “I didn’t do anything. Rok Soo just knows who to respect.”

Kim Rok Soo smirked, shaking his head. “It’s not about respect. I just don’t feel like calling someone like him hyung.”

Choi Jung Soo sputtered in protest while Lee Soo Hyuk laughed openly, the sound filling the small café with warmth.

Despite their teasing, it was clear that their relationship had deepened in ways they hadn’t expected. Kim Rok Soo might not remember the old timeline, but he no longer needed to. The person he was becoming in this new life was stronger, more confident, and able to stand up for himself and the people he cared about. 

Lee Soo Hyuk noticed the small differences in Kim Rok Soo’s demeanour—the way he spoke more confidently now, the way he didn’t hesitate to joke back with Choi Jung Soo, or even how he handled difficult situations with quiet strength. It wasn’t just physical strength; it was emotional resilience. The boy who had once been a victim of circumstances was slowly growing into someone who could forge his own path.

That evening, after their meal, the three of them walked together along the streets they had known since they were children. The sun was setting, casting long shadows across the pavement.

“You know,” Lee Soo Hyuk said thoughtfully, “I used to worry about you, Rok Soo. Back when we were kids.”

Kim Rok Soo looked up at him, surprised. “Why?”

Lee Soo Hyuk’s gaze softened. “Because you were always so quiet, so closed off. I was afraid you’d be stuck like that forever. But… seeing you now, I don’t think I need to worry anymore.”

Kim Rok Soo didn’t know how to respond at first. Instead, he looked ahead, taking in the quiet streets and the orange glow of the setting sun. Then, after a moment, he smiled. “You don’t have to worry. Not anymore.”

Choi Jung Soo grinned, throwing an arm around Kim Rok Soo’s shoulders. “See? Told you he’s grown! But I’m still not letting you get away with not calling me hyung.”

Kim Rok Soo rolled his eyes. “You can keep dreaming.”

As they continued to walk, talking and laughing, there was an unspoken understanding between the three of them. This bond—this family they had created—was stronger than anything else. Even though they each had their own dreams and paths to follow, they knew they would always have each other.

And for Kim Rok Soo, who had once believed he had no future, this was more than enough.