Choi San, a revered and feared mafia boss, reigns over Seoul's underworld with an iron fist, his influence extending seamlessly across both legal and illegal domains. But his empire is shaken to its core when his beloved daughter, Eun-ji, is kidnapp...
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Five months had passed since that critical meeting, and I sat at the head of the long, polished oak table that gleamed under the soft glow of overhead lights, casting long shadows across the serious faces of my trusted Midnight Reapers. Known and feared across continents for our ruthlessness and strategic prowess, our meetings typically revolved around tightening our grip on various operations and plotting out meticulous strategies. Yet today, my mind was notably elsewhere—haunted by thoughts of Wooyoung and the revelations that had deeply shaken the foundation of our relationship.
Around the table, Yeonsang, Yunho, and Mingi presented their updates. Their voices were steady, their expressions grave as they discussed logistics, potential threats, and opportunities for expansion. But the urgency in their words faded into the background as my thoughts lingered on Wooyoung's substantial role within our organization—a role I had only fully appreciated in the last few months.
Seongjun, the seasoned boss of the Reapers, watched the exchange with an intensity that belied his quiet demeanor. Having stepped back recently to let me manage more directly, he chose his moments to reassert his presence wisely. Today was such a day, his piercing gaze occasionally meeting mine across the expanse of dark wood, heavy with unspoken conversations.
As the room cleared after the meeting, Seongjun gestured subtly for Ae-ri and Zi-ah to remain; his seasoned instincts told him more personal discussions were necessary. Once the door clicked shut behind the last departing member, the true meeting began.
"San," Seongjun started, his voice cutting through the dimness of the room, "there's something important you need to understand about Wooyoung."
Anticipating a critique of Wooyoung's recent recklessness, I was ready to defend him. "He shouldn't have interfered," I started to argue, feeling a mix of defensiveness and concern bubble within me.
"No, it's not just that," Seongjun interrupted, his deep voice firm. "You are underestimating the breadth of Wooyoung's capabilities and influence."
Confused, I prompted him to continue.
Leaning back in his chair, Seongjun's eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "Wooyoung isn't just the man who acted out of fear or love the other night. He has significant connections—deep and far-reaching ones across Asia, America, and Europe. He's been far more involved in the shadows than you realize."
Stunned, I barely managed to articulate, "Are you saying—"
"Yes," Seongjun nodded, confirming my dawning realization. "His network might even surpass many of our own. While you handle confrontations and direct threats, Wooyoung has been silently weaving a web of allies and influencers."
Ae-ri and Zi-ah looked at each other before Zi-ah added with a smirk, "It's true, San. While you've been on the front lines, Wooyoung has ensured our safety through a network of contacts that he rarely speaks of. He's more strategic and instrumental than you've acknowledged."
