One day in Seoul 🇰🇷

🇰🇷: 12

Francis' POV

The sun was low in the sky as I made my way to the private warehouse Enriquez used for our transactions. It wasn't my first visit to this place, and I knew it wouldn't be the last. The building was discreet, tucked away from prying eyes, which made it the perfect location for these kinds of deals.

I walked in with my usual calm demeanor, every step calculated and deliberate. Inside, Enriquez was waiting, surrounded by his men. His sharp eyes met mine, and a sly grin spread across his face.

"Francis," he greeted, his voice smooth. "I was wondering when you'd show up."

I gave a slight nod, my expression neutral. "I'm here to collect the rest of the payment."

Enriquez leaned back in his chair, snapping his fingers. One of his men approached with a black duffel bag, unzipping it to reveal stacks of fresh cash. Five million in crisp bills, their scent still carrying the faint hint of ink.

"Good work on the transaction," Enriquez said, his tone casual, but there was an undercurrent of admiration. "The ten kilos went without a hitch. You're reliable."

I didn't respond immediately. My eyes skimmed over the money before I nodded to his man to hand it over. Taking the bag, I slung it over my shoulder. "Pleasure doing business with you."

The conversation ended there. No need for more words. I turned and left the warehouse as quietly as I had come, the weight of the cash resting comfortably at my side. No rush, no excitement-just another job completed, another transaction settled.

Once I was out and away from Enriquez's place, I decided to head into the city for some shopping. It hit me that I had only packed one bag when I came to the Philippines, and now I needed a few more things to add to my wardrobe. After all, looking the part was as essential as any other part of the job.

I found myself at a luxury store, the kind that smelled of wealth and sophistication. The moment I stepped inside, the staff perked up, their trained eyes assessing me with subtle glances. I knew what they saw-a man who radiated elegance, someone who didn't need to look at price tags.

"Good afternoon, sir," one of the staff said, bowing slightly. "Would you like to use our VIP room for your shopping today?"

I waved my hand dismissively. "No need," I replied, my voice low but firm. I pointed casually from one rack to another. "I'll take all of those."

The staff exchanged surprised glances but quickly went to work. One of them returned with a glass of champagne, offering it to me. I took it without hesitation, letting the cold fizz wash away any lingering tension from earlier.

As they rang up my purchases and carefully packed everything, I approached the manager. "I'll need these delivered to my house," I said simply, handing over my address. The manager nodded eagerly, assuring me that everything would be delivered with the utmost care.

After settling the bill, I left the store with nothing but my phone in my pocket and a clear head. I took a slow walk around the mall, enjoying the anonymity of the crowd. It was then that something caught my eye-brightly colored baby clothes displayed in one of the store windows.

I stopped, almost without realizing it. My gaze lingered on the little dresses and tiny shoes, each one more delicate than the last. I frowned, shaking my head slightly. Why did this catch my attention? I didn't have a child, so why was I standing there, staring at baby clothes?

I sighed and walked into the store, my feet moving before my brain could catch up. A staff member approached, her smile warm and welcoming. "Sir, how old is your child?" she asked politely.