Lines Blurred, Traces Found (Published Under Ukiyoto Publishing)

Chapter 1: The Pursuit of Justice

The Pursuit of Justice

Hyunjie can't imagine losing the only person left in her life who truly matters. It's been five years since she lost her parents, and with her brother's busy FBI schedule, they've rarely spent time together. At the cemetery, where her brother's grave lies, she sat for over twenty minutes, tears streaming down her face as she lit a candle and offered flowers.

It was just three months ago, but she still cannot believe what happened to her brother, who died as a result of the tough assignment. "If I had known I was going to lose you, Harry, I wouldn't have left and stayed with you," she said softly, touching the brother's tombstone. "If only I could do something to avenge you, to give justice to your death." When she realized what she had said, she was stunned for a while.

Her brow furrowed as the wind blew her way, and she thought. She thinks if what she's planning is a smart idea, but she decides to embark on a mission to bring justice to her brother's death. "That's right," she stated. "I know there's more I can do, Harry. I can't just wait and sit idly by. I want to take action myself and find your killers, Harry, I promise."

As Hyunjie composed herself, she wiped away her tears and slowly rose from the graveside. With a final, lingering glance at the weathered stone, she turned and began walking away, leaving the solemn atmosphere behind.

Meanwhile, a stranger emerged from his car, parked nearby. He wore trousers, a crisp white T-shirt hidden beneath his worn black leather jacket. Approaching the grave from the same direction Hyunjie had come, he noticed the flickering candle and vibrant flowers adorning the site. His eyes widened in surprise. Curious, the man scanned the surroundings, his gaze falling upon Hyunjie as she settled into her car and drove away, disappearing into the distance.

He trailed the woman until she vanished into the distance, then redirected his attention to the tombstone, kneeling down in reverence. Eyes fixed on the weathered inscription, he spoke in hushed tones. "Harry, I'm sorry. I came to pay my respects today, but duty has consumed me. The investigation into your death has led to chaos, with crimes and operations spiraling out of control." He bowed his head, a gesture of regret. "I'm really sorry, Harry. I failed to protect you. If only I'd known... if only I'd acted sooner."

As Russell Hadrian, known as Eros, knelt before Harry's tombstone, memories of their college days flooded back. They had been inseparable friends, bonding over laughter and late-night conversations. Harry often spoke fondly of his younger sister, sparking Eros's curiosity and fascination.

The day Harry's life was cut short, Eros was consumed by regret and guilt. As a police officer, he felt he had failed his friend, unable to protect or save him. Self-doubt crept in, making him wonder if he was a worthless friend. Now, Eros's thoughts returned to Harry's sister, Hyunjie. He recalled Harry's stories about her and his own unfulfilled desire to meet her.

Lost in contemplation, Eros's gaze wandered into the distance. "That could be her, if I'm not mistaken," he said, glancing back at Harry's grave. "I know you left me no will about your sister, but is it okay with you that I meet her somehow?"

Eros stood before Harry's grave, the silence his only response. "I'll take that as a yes, brother," he said, a sense of determination settling in. With a final nod, he bid farewell. "Until we meet again, I have to go." Returning to his mansion, Eros immersed himself in research, driven to uncover the truth about Harry's tragic demise. He scoured files and databases, seeking any mention of Harry's family, particularly his sister, Hyunjie, whose location Harry had often discussed.

A breakthrough came when Eros stumbled upon Harry's final Instagram post, featuring a photo with a young woman. The caption, "I love you, little sister Hyunjie," was tagged to her account, revealing a crucial lead. With this discovery, Eros felt a sense of purpose, fueled by his promise to Harry. He was one step closer to finding Hyunjie and unraveling the mysteries surrounding Harry's death.