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Heeseung & Aiko
Aiko stared in awe as they descended into the safe base. The place was surprisingly well-maintained. It was a stark contrast to the chaos and danger of the outside world. She followed Heeseung, Jake, and Sunghoon, feeling a mix of curiosity and unease.
Inside, the base was buzzing with activity. Some people were hanging clothes, kids were playing, and others were reading books. Everyone seemed happy, a stark contrast to the terror Aiko had just escaped. She couldn't help but feel a glimmer of hope.
"Alright, let's get you acquainted with the place," Jake said, breaking her thoughts. "This is where we sleep, eat, and basically try to keep our shit together."
Sunghoon chimed in, "We've got a decent setup here. We try to keep things as normal as possible, you know? Kids playing, people reading. It's like a fucked-up version of paradise."
Heeseung remained silent, his eyes scanning the area as they walked. Aiko noticed how people seemed to respect and trust him. They nodded in acknowledgment as he passed by.
Jake continued, "We've got a kitchen over there, a small clinic in the back, and some rooms for sleeping. We try to keep a routine, keeps people from losing their shit."
They moved through different sections, Heeseung pointing out key areas. "This is where we keep our supplies. And that's the armory. We don't fuck around with safety here."
Aiko was impressed, but she had her own agenda. As they finished the tour and Heeseung pointed out her room, she couldn't hold back any longer.
"Whoa, whoa, whoa," Aiko said, turning to face Heeseung. "You don't actually think I'm going to stay here, do you? I need to find my mother."
Heeseung laughed, a bitter sound. "You're joking, right? You'll fucking die out there. You don't have a clue what it's like."
Aiko bristled at his tone. "I know it's not a game. But I'm not staying here while my mom is out there. I can't just sit around and do nothing."
Heeseung's eyes hardened. "You think you can just waltz out and everything will go your way? Newsflash, princess, the world's a shitshow. You'll be dead in a day."
Jake and Sunghoon exchanged amused glances, finding the argument entertaining.
Aiko's anger flared. "You don't get to tell me what to do! This isn't about playing house. I have to find my mom!"
Heeseung stepped closer, his voice low and dangerous. "You don't know what the fuck you're talking about. You probably expect everything to be perfect for you. Newsflash: it won't be."
Aiko glared at him. "And you think you know everything? You think being a fucking control freak makes you right? People are out there, dying. My mom could be dying!"
