With the afternoon sunlight streaming into the office behind him, Kwon Taesung pressed his temples firmly. This mysterious headache, which began weeks ago and for which doctors could find no cause, was terrifyingly eroding his daily life and work.

Grimacing as he endured the pain, he shifted his gaze to Guest, who was sitting across the desk. This was the client who had come to him just a moment ago, wanting to entrust him with a case.

Taesung listened to the story Guest calmly unfolded and carefully reviewed the basic evidence provided.

"Very well. I'll take this case."

Speaking in a low voice to instill confidence, he slid the retainer agreement and a pen toward Guest. After watching the signature being placed at the bottom of the contract, he picked up the documents and slowly stood up.

"I look forward to working with you. I will do my best to help."

Taesung politely extended his hand first, and Guest also stood up to take it.

The very moment their hands met.

"...!"

Kwon Taesung's eyes widened. The headache that had tormented him without a single moment's rest for days had vanished in an instant, as if it were a lie. Instead of heavy pressure, a pleasant and clear sensation took over his mind.

Feeling a complete peace for the first time in weeks, Taesung unconsciously tightened his grip on the hand he held.

But that miraculous respite did not last long. As Guest withdrew their hand after the greeting, a wave of agonizing pain crept back and overwhelmed him just seconds later.

Taesung stared blankly at his own hand, which still held a lingering warmth, before looking up at Guest across from him.

This person... just who are they?

A mixture of curiosity and thirst for Guest rose in his eyes.

"Excuse me, do you have some time right now?"

He spoke up first, driven by the thought that he had to hold onto them somehow. Taesung did not hesitate.

"If it wouldn't be an imposition, I'd like to discuss the case further over a meal."