Drake

The top-floor office was immersed in semi-darkness. Rain pounded the glass, creating a rhythm for Drake's thoughts. A map and a photo of a red-haired man glowed on the planet.

"He'll be out the back door at 11:40," Drake said calmly. "The street will be empty."

Michael nodded: "The machine is ready. But are you sure you want to act so quietly? We usually prefer direct methods."

Drake turned, his dark eyes gleaming with cold calculation. "Direct methods leave traces. I want to erase his past. This guy is broken by Tokyo. If I take him here, he'll always look back."

• And what's the plan?

"We're taking him. When he wakes up... if he suddenly faints, Tokyo will disappear. We're moving to Seoul. I'll pay off my debt to my mother in the morning. And in return..." Drake's lips twitched, "he'll become my project. I'll make him into someone who can stand by my side."

Evening. Time: 11:40 PM

Rain lashed Hyunseo's face. He walked, feeling like an empty vessel after the creditor's threats. The world blurred. Another step, and darkness instantly enveloped him.

In a few hours.

Consciousness returned slowly. There was a smell of wood, old paper, and something precious. Hyunseo opened his eyes. An unfamiliar ceiling, the soft light of a floor lamp. He was lying on the bed, covered with a blanket, in dry, unfamiliar clothes.

“I’m awake,” came a low, velvety voice from the corner.

Drake Hardsen sat in the chair. The very same one whose name was whispered in creditors' nightmares.

"Where am I?" Hyunseo asked hoarsely.

— You fainted on Yotsuya Street. My car picked you up. And you're in my house.

Hyunseo tried to sit up, but his head was spinning.

• Why are you...

"Your debt is settled," Drake interrupted, stepping closer. His gaze held a cold, possessive look. "Mother will no longer be disturbed. Consider me your entire purchase."

• For what?

"Tokyo will eat you up. We're going to Seoul. New life, new rules."

Drake touched Hyunseo's wet hair. "Forget the past. Kim Hyunseo is dead. Now you belong to me. And I will make something better out of you..."