He followed Mu-gyeong, pretending to do so reluctantly, learning the layout of the house and even how to operate the wall pad.

After carefully washing himself, making sure no water touched his wounds, Hongju stepped out to find that Mu-gyeong was nowhere to be seen. Whether he was showering or working inside, he couldn't tell. Hesitantly, Hongju perched on the edge of the sofa.

Then it happened. The wall pad lit up, signaling a visitor. The screen showed a man wearing a cap pulled low. Hongju awkwardly stood up and called for the homeowner.

“President Mu-gyeong.”

His voice echoed through the large house. The doorbell rang again, as if urging him to hurry.

“Sir?”

Even after several calls, there was no reply—until he reached the master bathroom.