Whispers Before Dawn

Chapter 1

Chang In entered the room, the door clicking softly behind him. His gaze fell on Rick, seated in the quiet, the soft hum of the facility barely noticeable through the thick walls. Something in Rick's posture caught his attention—subtle, but enough for Chang In to notice. Rick's usual rigid demeanor had softened, ever so slightly. His lips were set in their usual straight line, but there was a faint glint in his eyes, something that looked almost like amusement.

"You didn't read anything?" Chang In asked casually, noting the untouched books on the table.

Rick glanced at the shelves briefly. "Your younger nephew called" he said flatly. "The call came twice from an external line, so I answered."

"Tae-ui called?" Chang In's smile warmed his face. "What did he say?"

"He said he's doing well and will contact you again" Rick replied, his voice steady, gaze fixed.

Chang In gave him a thoughtful look. There was something in Rick's eyes—something softer, a shift that hadn't been there before. Tae-ui had a way of affecting people, but seeing Rick—the stoic, unyielding Rick—show any sign of it was unexpected.

The laptop chimed, pulling their attention. Another call from an external line.

"Is it him again?" Rick asked, his tone carrying a hint of anticipation.

Chang In raised an eyebrow at the question, surprised by the subtle shift in Rick's voice. He glanced at the caller ID. "No, it's Kyle."

Instantly, Rick's expression hardened. The fleeting softness vanished, replaced by his familiar stoicism. Without a word, he adjusted the laptop, angling it toward Chang In.

Chang In noticed the change but didn't comment. He accepted the call, and Kyle's face appeared on the screen.

"Good to see you both" Kyle greeted, his tone brisk but friendly. "I was hoping to catch you together. I have some updates to share."

Before they could dive into business, Chang In interjected, "Before we start, do you have any updates on Jae-ui?"

Kyle's expression shifted slightly, apologetic. "No, unfortunately. Last we checked, he could be in Costa Rica, but he wasn't there."

Chang In's brow furrowed. "Where could he be?"

Kyle gave a light chuckle, aiming to ease the tension. "What could possibly happen to him? Don't stress too much."

Rick, who had been silently watching the exchange, spoke up. "You seem to care for your nephews a great deal."

Chang In nodded. "I just want them to be well."

Kyle, looking thoughtful, added, "Have you asked his gilsangcheon?"

"Tae-ui?" Chang In exhaled. "No, I missed his call earlier." His eyes briefly flicked to Rick, noting the almost imperceptible softening at the mention of Tae-ui's name.

"I'll ask him next time" Chang In said, his voice lighter.

Kyle nodded. "Let me know if you find anything. I tried reaching Ilay earlier, but he didn't pick up. I figured he might still be with you."

Rick remained still, his gaze unreadable.

"He's here" Chang In confirmed. "Let's go over the details."

"Perfect" Kyle said, his tone shifting to a more professional note. "There are updates on the T&R and UNHRDO collaboration. Adjustments to the release schedules and some changes in security protocols."

As Kyle outlined the specifics, the atmosphere turned focused. Discussions of logistics, timelines, and operational security moved swiftly. Rick and Chang In exchanged insights effortlessly, their expertise evident in the fluidity of the conversation.