SHADOWS OF DECEIT

Chapter-1

As Joshua stepped out of the airport's sleek glass doors, the pulsating energy of the Asian metropolis enveloped him. The air vibrated with the hum of a thousand conversations, the scent of sizzling street food wafting through the crowds. After collecting his luggage, Joshua retrieved his phone and dialled the last number that had contacted him.

The call connected, and the voice on the other end was almost drowned out by the background din. "Jisoo, where are you?" Samuel asked, straining to hear.

"I'm at the exit gate," Jisoo replied, his words clipped amidst the ambient noise.

"Just wait there. I'll be right there," Jisoo assured before the line went dead.

Joshua exhaled, his gaze drifting across the sea of unfamiliar faces as he tapped his foot restlessly. Time ticked by with agonizing slowness. Then, a voice pierced the din.

"Joshua!"

He turned, his eyes locking onto Samuel's bright smile and youthful features. Samuel's messy black hair and vibrant eyes sparkled as he effortlessly navigated the crowd, his slender frame weaving through the throng with ease.

Samuel's rugged ensemble - replete with ear piercings and tattoos - suggested a world-weariness beyond his years. Yet, his bright, boyish features and warm demeanour undermined the tough facade he seemed to cultivate. His style was an intriguing mashup of rebelliousness and whimsy.

A grey tank top hugged his lean physique, topped by a black bomber jacket casually slung over his shoulders. Multiple bracelets encircled his wrists, chunky rings adorned his fingers, and a striking blonde mullet framed his face. A delicate beaded cross rested against his chest, while a trendy cap crowned his head.

Joshua's eyes roved over Samuel's appearance, amusement dancing in his gaze. "Samuel, where have you been frequenting lately?" he asked, chuckling. "You hardly look like the typical doctor's acquaintance."

Samuel flashed a mischievous grin. "You'd be surprised, Josh," he replied, his voice laced with playful defiance.

Joshua shook his head, laughing, as Samuel wrapped him in a warm hug.

"I'm so happy to see you, hyung," Samuel exclaimed, tightening his embrace around Joshua. The elder smiled warmly, ruffling Samuel's hair in a gentle gesture.

"Missed you too, little one," Joshua replied, his voice filled with affection.

As they parted, Samuel eagerly assisted Joshua with his luggage and bounded ahead, turning back with a mischievous wink. "Welcome to Japan, hyung."

Joshua chuckled at Samuel's antics.

Once inside the car, Samuel briefed Joshua on his accommodations. "Hyung, I know you'd prefer the city, but I'm still securing a house for you. For now, you'll have to tolerate my humble abode for a month or two."

Joshua raised an eyebrow. "Your 'humble abode'? You're not making me sleep on the streets, are you?"

Samuel laughed. "Of course not, hyung! My place is cozy, I promise."

Joshua playfully twisted Samuel's ears, eliciting a yelp and a pout. "Why'd you do that, hyung?" Samuel whined.

"I told you, I don't mind where I stay," Joshua reminded him. "In fact, I'd rather stay with you than alone in an unfamiliar place."

Samuel's face flushed sheepishly. "Thanks, hyung. That means a lot."

As they drove through the city, Samuel pointed out various landmarks. "That's the Tokyo Tower, and over there is the Shibuya Crossing."