Chapter Text
It was a dry and chilly day— the transitional period from late autumn to early winter.
The TV was broadcasting gloomy and somber news from somewhere in the world, but at this moment, the place where Taeui was remained peaceful. The air in the living room where he was lounging was still comfortably warm.
Although it was only early evening, the sky was already pitch black. During his free time, Jeong Taeui often sprawled on the sofa, flipping through books he had casually picked up from Kyle’s study.
Everything was as usual. No, in fact, it was even more peaceful than usual, because the man who often disturbed his tranquility had left the house about ten days ago, citing a business trip to Morocco or Algeria or somewhere like that. Therefore, Taeui was able to enjoy days that were quieter and more relaxing than ever.
According to a call from that man last night, he would finish his work and return tomorrow, so unfortunately, this period of undisturbed relaxation would most likely come to an end after today.
Taeui was enjoying a serene evening, happily flipping through pages of his book while sipping beer when he suddenly noticed some noise outside. Perhaps it was one of Kyle’s guests?
This house always had guests coming and going, so it was nothing strange, but lying behind the living room sofa while they were present seemed inappropriate. Just as Taeui was about to sit up, the sound of footsteps entering from the front door echoed.
Lifting his head towards the sound of hurried footsteps approaching, Taeui saw a familiar face.
“Oh, Alain. Long time no see!” He greeted cheerfully.
It was Ilay’s former colleague whom he had met a few times before. But seeing Alain’s expression, Taeui’s smile gradually faded from his lips.
Alain, who always wore a wide grin like a mask, now had a face drained of any hint of his usual cheerfulness. His expression was difficult to read. Slightly contorted, and somewhat flustered. He stood rooted to the spot, staring straight at Jeong Taeui.
What’s going on…? A strange cold sensation crept into Taeui’s heart, and it became even more pronounced when he saw the solemn expression on Kyle’s face as he walked in right behind Alain.
“Taei..” Kyle spoke up.
Kyle, who always wore a relaxed and carefree smile, now also had a face filled with confusion and bewilderment. Then, in a monotone, mechanical tone, he stiffly uttered.
“They said Ilay is dead.”
gulp
The sip of beer he had just taken went down his throat at the wrong moment, leaving Taeui’s throat burning with pain.