BEYOND THE LOVE

CHAPTER 15:

Approaching the chief, I was immediately met with his stern gaze. "Why wasn't I informed of your run-in with the Eviscerators and especially the Phoenix Syndicate?" he demanded.

My heart sank; I hadn't anticipated him finding out, much less confronting me here.
"We intended to discuss it with you to—"

"But you didn't," he cut in, the intensity of his anger palpable.

"Chief, we planned to—"

"Nara, you didn't," he reiterated, silencing my attempts to explain.

As he continued his reproach, I noticed Suha, Juan, Kyoto, and Ji Woon seated on a nearby sofa.
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Suha seemed to be making her way towards Rein, which would likely only complicate things further.

SUHA'S POV:

While the chief reprimanded Nara, my attention was drawn to Rein. His typically stoic demeanor shifted noticeably, suggesting either frustration or irritation at the chief's harsh words towards her.

Curiosity piqued, I rose from my seat and walked over to where Rein sat by the counter.
I couldn't help but admire him. Clad in a black shirt that hugged his muscular frame and paired with black trousers, he looked striking. The top two buttons of his shirt were undone, revealing a glimpse of his chest. His deep brown eyes, V-shaped face reminiscent of Nara's, sharp jawline, and rosy lips all made for a captivating sight. His wolf cut mullet added to his distinct look and fresh wound is visible on the wrist holding the glass, and there's a scar on the left side of the cheek.From my estimate, he was around 6 feet tall, with sleek black sport shoes to complete his outfit.

Taking a seat beside him, I signaled the bartender, "One shot of vodka, please."

Rein turned to look at me as he recognized my voice.I want to inquire about Nara's connection to him. But would Nara get upset if I did? I hope not.

END OF SUHA'S POV:
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REIN'S POV:

From the corner of my eye, I noticed Suha approaching. She wasn’t one for subtle approaches; she wore her emotions openly. Today was no exception. Her interest was palpable, and it was directed at me. What did she want, I wondered? Her voice, distinct yet soft, interrupted my thoughts. I turned my gaze to her just in time to see her order a shot of vodka.

"Interesting choice," I remarked casually, nodding towards the bartender preparing her drink.

She smirked, "Not as interesting as yours, I bet. Whiskey, right?"

I was slightly taken aback. She was right. "You have a good memory," I replied, taking a sip from my glass.

She shrugged, a playful smile on her lips. "Or maybe I just pay attention."

Our conversation was momentarily interrupted as the bartender placed her shot in front of her. She lifted it, toasting it slightly towards me, and downed it in one swift motion.

"So," she started, playing with the empty shot glass, "I've noticed you're quite into Nara."

I raised an eyebrow. "What makes you say that?"

She leaned in slightly, her voice dropping a notch, "The way you watch her, especially when the chief is giving her a hard time."

I gave a soft chuckle, gazed into the glass, and gave it a swirl.

Suha tilted her head, her eyes searching for mine. "Is it just a concern or is there something more?"

I hesitated. Did I really want to dive into that territory? Before I could decide, Suha continued, "Because, you know, if there's something more, it might complicate things for our Nara"

I looked straight into her eyes.

"And I am damn sure she is not the same Nara you met 8 or 7 years ago" then confidently drained her glass and set it down.

Suha gave me a final glance, her gaze lingering a second longer than necessary, and then walked away. As I watched her retreating figure.

END OF REIN'S POV:
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"Nara, fill me in on everything, understood?"

"Yes, Chief. I apologize for not keeping you informed earlier."

He paused briefly. "There's something else you should know."

I raised an eyebrow, wondering what more he could possibly add.
"You'll be partnering with Rein on this assignment."

My body tensed immediately at the mention of Rein's name. In a voice tinged with frustration, I asked, "Why him?"

"It's not up for discussion. Rein will provide the specifics later, not now. For now, focus on your meeting with Zaerim since that's why you're here. I'm leaving."

With that, he departed. I ran my fingers through my hair, exhaling deeply. Taking out my phone, I began dialing, searching for Zaerim who had yet to make an appearance.