The Perfect

The move was simple. I didn’t have much stuff, and thanks to the incredible speed of Banggeulbanggeul Moving, I was back in my 4K accommodation within an hour. This place was several times larger than where I used to live. It was spacious enough to fit all my belongings from the room I had crouched and hidden in during the stormy night. I put everything in one place because the room was big, but also because it would be easier to pack again later. I was determined to leave again in a few days. However, there was a nuisance sticking to me.“Director Kook.”He kept a few steps away from me but stayed nearby. When I called him, he jumped into the open door as if he had been waiting. Then he looked around at my stuff.“It looks even more pathetic up close.”“Is it as pathetic as my current situation?”“You know it well.”What? I stared at him in disbelief, but he responded with a blank expression.“It’s a compliment.”“The person who made my situation pathetic is Director Kook.”“If your life is a mess, it’s your own fault.”“So this is your revenge? Annoying me and making my life miserable?”It would have been better to talk through a wall in a sleazy house. I turned around in frustration, but he didn’t respond. His gaze lowered, and his lips were tightly shut. He looked momentarily dejected, like a hurt child. Why, why is he like this?“Do you dislike this house?”“No, I don’t dislike it, but who likes being forced to move against their will?”“I didn’t do it for your sake, Han Jemyung. I asked if your goal was to annoy and make my life miserable. Well, it’s similar. I’ll keep you in my sight and watch over you.”“Until when?”“Until I don’t want to see you anymore.”Did my ears deceive me? Did I hear that right? For a moment, I felt like the protagonist of a novel. Maybe it was because I met his sincere gaze. For a brief moment, I even thought that if he didn’t want to see me, I might feel a bit disappointed. I quickly steadied my wavering heart and asked,“Should I start acting out so that Director Kook will dislike me?”“Try it if you want revenge.”“…Do you take revenge on people you like?”“Revenge and love are separate matters.”Damn bastard.“So what do I have to do to get out of this situation? To be clear, I will never tell Director Kook that I like him.”“Neither will I.”He stubbornly said, twisting his lips.“I’ll correct what I said earlier. I’ve changed my goal. I’ll keep you in my sight, watch over you, and annoy you.”My mouth had gotten me into trouble. I should have considered that Yangsimless’s mental age was at an elementary school level. I sighed and turned my head. Damn, should I run away, or wait until he gives up? I was pondering alone when I noticed the silence and turned my eyes. I met Yangsimless’s gaze, who had been quietly watching me. He quickly looked away and cleared his throat.“Ahem, but for now, I’ll just watch over you.”“Should I thank you?”“Of course.”He shamelessly nodded and turned his head to the side as he spoke.“If you’re grateful, you can hold my hand.”“I’ll pass.”He turned sharply, giving me a piercing look. Hey, didn’t you say you’d just watch for now? Before I could get into a defensive stance, Yangsimless’s phone rang at the perfect moment. Seeing the name on the screen, he muttered “old geezer” and hung up.“Answer it. It might be urgent.”“This is more urgent.”“What? Watching me? Annoying me? Enjoying seeing me all crumpled up after being forced to move?”I was getting a bit heated. I didn’t care if he took revenge because of what I said. Say whatever you want, I won’t back down!“No. I’m checking your house contract. I need to see if it’s a scam. If the landlord doesn’t know, there’s a secret with the previous tenant. That guy might not be dead.”I was slightly scared.“But, but that person already has a death certificate.”“He might have faked his death. If he’s a vile person who tattles to the apartment women’s association, causing me significant financial and mental harm, he could have forged documents. If he’s alive, I’ll make his remaining life a hell worse than death.”He clenched his fist with determination. I made a resolution too. It’s not time to reveal it yet. Still, I held onto a sliver of hope and asked.“What if that criminal…”“The most vile, perverted, and despicable person on Earth?”“…Yes, anyway, what if that person turns out to be someone precious to Director Kook or someone Director Kook has feelings for? Would you still take revenge?”He looked at me quietly. I felt a pang of guilt, wondering if I had given too many hints. Did I just reveal it was me?“Are you jealous?”“What?”“Are you upset that I’m showing interest in someone else in front of you?”“No. Of course not.”“Then don’t worry about it.”Yangsimless coldly spat out and added indifferently.“Even if it’s Sebastian, I won’t forgive this time.”“Who’s Sebastian?”“My dog.”Ah, my rival. Damn, so I have no chance either. Cold sweat trickled down. It felt like Yangsimless would soon go to the Population Management Office and find the documents I forged. Just then, his phone rang again. Whoever it was, they were a lifesaver.“Just answer the phone.”I urged him, and Yangsimless frowned but answered the call. I could hear an angry man cursing on the other end. Who could talk to Yangsimless like that? Watching with envy, I saw Yangsimless listen for a while before saying,“Hang up, I’m busy.”The person on the other end continued with more curses. Yangsimless listened for a while longer before speaking again.“No. I have something to do here.”The person must have asked what he had to do. He suddenly looked at me.“Watching. I need to keep an eye on him to annoy and bother him. Watching him all crumpled up after being forced to move.”Damn bastard. My face twisted. The person on the other end must have felt the same. The curses grew louder. Yangsimless listened for a while before suggesting an alternative.“If I put a tracker on him, maybe.”What? On me?“Take it.”Suddenly, Yangsimless handed me the phone.“Why me?”“He wants to talk to you.”“Who is it?”“My lawyer.”I remembered what Special Agent had said. Yangsimless had an incredible lawyer who never lost a case. Why would such a great lawyer want to talk to me?“Hello?”[Please, just do what he says. I’m busy. Please, just do it, okay? Okay?]A gruff voice of a man in his 50s suddenly filled my ear.“Um, what…”[The tracker is no big deal. It barely emits any radiation. You can take out the battery when you need it, so it’s a win-win. I’m in a hurry. The government needs it right now, but they won’t come because they’re busy. Just do it, okay? Okay? I’ll do it too. Let’s do it together. Is that okay? Yes? Okay?]The lawyer whined. What is this guy? And win-win for what? Just for a battery, I have to accept this…[Aaagh!]“What’s wrong?”[Oh, damn, he attacked me!]“Who? Heartless?”[The tracker? Are you going to do it? Hurry, it’s urgent! Yes? Aaagh! Are you going to do it? Yes? Okay?]Under pressure, I reluctantly said “yes” and asked,“What about Heartless? Are you okay?”[Heartless? No, switch me back to the government guy.]The urgency disappeared from the lawyer’s voice immediately. He said he was attacked? I handed the phone back, bewildered. Yangsimless answered it with a pleased expression, said “I’ll go,” and hung up.“The lawyer said he was attacked?”“Yes, by a bug.”“…A bug?”“A stink bug came in through the window.”I wanted to shove that stink bug up the lawyer’s nose. While I was fuming at the lawyer, Yangsimless gave instructions.“Once you’re done, go to the 4K office. They’ll attach the equipment.”“…”“Or you can come with me.”I’ll go alone. I replied reluctantly. Yangsimless seemed to finish his business and finally left the room. But then he turned back, as if he remembered something.“By the way, ask that question again.”“What question?”“How long I’ll be watching you.”He’s making me do all sorts of things now. I asked half-heartedly.“Until when?”“Until my burning heart turns to ashes.”I got chills. Unlike me, who was horrified, Yangsimless looked triumphant like an elementary school student who scored 100 on a test and strolled away. But I couldn’t laugh at him. It was a line from my novel. I got chills from my own writing, and now it gave me chills in a different way. Hearing it in reality, it was a blend of childishness and cheesiness. But on the other hand, it made my heart race a bit. It’s kind of cool, though.* * *If there’s a quiet place in the Population Management Office, it’s the archives, where the final documents are managed. Although there was a lot of work, as it was where all deceased individuals’ documents ultimately gathered, there weren’t many staff members. However, no one could find fault with the processing of the archives.That was because of Manager Yoo, who was in charge of this place. He was the most meticulous and thorough person in the history of the Population Management Office. Even if everyone else had reviewed the documents multiple times, he would catch any mistakes instantly. His daily returns and error corrections increased the overall workload and extended overtime at the Population Management Office.The higher-ups instructed Manager Yoo to handle things appropriately unless it was crucial, but it had no effect. Instead, he reported the unfair instructions from the higher-ups to the internal affairs department. Persuasion did not exist in Manager Yoo’s rigid and meticulous life. Naturally, bribes didn’t work on him either. Because of this, the most miserable people were the staff who had to see him every day.Why did such a monster have to come and turn our department into hell! They even cursed the heavens. Three years ago, he had injured one leg during a disaster and was specially employed, making it a lifelong position unless he voluntarily resigned. So, the staff wished daily to revive Heartless, who had injured his leg, just to punch him again.The only consolation was that he preferred to be alone, reducing the time he spent with other department members. Manager Yoo spent all day alone in his document-filled office. His only known hobby was listening to music.No one knew what kind of music he listened to, but the way he occasionally moved his hands like a conductor while wearing large headphones suggested it was classical. Other than that, he knew nothing but work. So, no one found it strange when a low-level employee from the Special Affairs Department visited. Especially when no one could imagine he would be bribing for document manipulation.“I’ve adjusted the death dates of two people a little, so please just let it slide.”The Special Affairs Department employee bowed his head and requested. Anyone who knew Manager Yoo would expect him to call the police immediately, but instead, he narrowed his eyes and looked at the employee’s hand. Han Jemyung was holding out an envelope along with his request.“What’s that?”“It’s merchandise from the musician you were just listening to.”Han Jemyung lifted his eyes slightly and added softly.“It’s a limited edition toilet paper roll from Choonhyang Era, the longest-running idol group and the greatest idols of this era.”“Hmph, I already have Choonhyang Era toilet paper. It’s made of natural pulp and is non-fluorescent.”“It’s probably three-ply. This is a limited edition 20-ply, so you can solve your business with just one sheet.”“!”Manager Yoo’s eyes wavered. Moments later, the limited edition 20-ply toilet paper was carefully placed under his desk. After a few keystrokes, Manager Yoo processed the deaths of the two individuals Han Jemyung requested, and the transaction was completed in less than five minutes. Only then did Han Jemyung sigh in relief. As Manager Yoo looked at the toilet paper with satisfaction, Han Jemyung reminded him.“You must keep this a secret.”“Of course. Do you know who I am?”“I know you’re someone who fell for toilet paper.”“Are you dissing Choonhyang Era and me at the same time?”Manager Yoo’s eyes glinted menacingly. Han Jemyung quickly defended himself.“Of course, I’m only dissing you, Manager Yoo.”“That’s fine then.”Manager Yoo promptly agreed. Han Jemyung reiterated.“If anyone asks, you must never say you took a bribe from me to manipulate the documents, okay?”“Who would even come asking?”Annoyed, Manager Yoo questioned, and instead of a name, a deep sigh escaped from Han Jemyung.“There’s… someone with a serious grudge.”“What kind of grudge?”“It’s not just any grudge… Manager Yoo, have you ever been confessed to by someone you dislike?”“Did Heartless confess to you?”“Are you crazy? People who aren’t in their right minds and can barely speak properly.”“They say there are some Heartless who appear sane these days.”“Yes, so they say.”Manager Yoo glanced at him, but Han Jemyung looked like he didn’t want to dwell on that topic.“Then is it someone who left a nasty comment on your novel?”Flinch. This time, Han Jemyung reacted. Manager Yoo’s eyes narrowed.“Did someone finally report ‘Burning White Noodles’ to the police?”“‘Burning White Noodles’? It’s ‘Burning White Rose,’ a name that signifies love, purity, and passion. And why would my novel be reported to the police?”“Because your novel is as mentally damaging as Heartless.”Han Jemyung’s eyes also narrowed.“Do you remember who went to the concert with you when everyone turned their back on Choonhyang Era?”Manager Yoo bit his lip, muttering, “Damn.” That one debt had kept him under Han Jemyung’s thumb for years.“Anyway, it’s not a nasty comment. It’s the opposite.”“What do you mean?”“I’ll explain later.”“There’s no ‘later’ for you and me. Our connection ends here. Don’t come looking for me again.”“…It’s been three years since I last came.”“Even if it’s been 30 years, it wouldn’t be welcome.”Despite Manager Yoo’s harsh words, Han Jemyung snorted, unaffected. For someone who hadn’t seen him in three years, Manager Yoo knew well about the novel Han Jemyung was serializing.“I’m leaving now. See you in 30 years.”“Stay away from the mutated Heartless case.”Han Jemyung paused as he was about to get up and looked at him.“Why? Did you hear something strange?”“The only strange thing is your novel.”“You’re not hiding anything from me, are you?”“I’m a man of many mysteries, full of secrets.”Han Jemyung left with a grimace. After he left, Manager Yoo made a phone call. After a few rings, a young woman’s voice answered.“Yes, this is the Restoration Agency.”“This is the Archives Department of the Population Management Office. Put the chief on the line.”The female employee, taken aback, asked what it was about. Manager Yoo said something to her, and shortly after, a man in his 50s answered.“Yes.”“Han Jemyung from the Special Affairs Department just visited. It seems he doesn’t know the important parts yet.”“Really?”“Yes. He said he was confessed to. Looks like he’s going to be dating.”“Hmm, so it’s that person. I noticed the way Han Jemyung looked at him was unusual.”“Do you know who it is? He said it was someone he dislikes.”“No one likes 4K Director Kook.”Manager Yoo frowned at the name, not because it was famous among hunters.“He’s related to the mutated Heartless.”“He’s not directly involved. He just knows about it.”Because of that information, Special Agent would likely pester him. That would involve Han Jemyung, who didn’t need to know. Manager Yoo spoke decisively.“Make sure Han Jemyung doesn’t have to worry about it.”Stop now. Manager Yoo’s words kept bothering me. I knew him very well. His ability to gather and compile information and provide what was needed for the allies was unmatched. Even though he was buried in documents now, he must have heard something about the mutated Heartless. That’s why he warned me.But it was clear it wasn’t just because it was dangerous. He knew me better than anyone. Having worked together for a long time, he had watched me through my training. And he knew the current me well. He knew I avoided dangerous things on my own. So, there was something in this matter that would make me persist despite the risks… As I was engulfed in foreboding thoughts, a hand suddenly appeared in front of me.“Young man, you’re single, right? Right?”A woman in her 50s asked, her eyes sparkling. Before I could even respond, she shoved something into my hand.“You look like a bachelor. This time, you should find a good match and live happily. You can meet your match here.”She handed me a promotional item, a bamboo chopstick set that was currently popular. A small paper attached to the chopsticks read:“GM Week with XXX Meetings!”I looked up. People were handing out promotional items to singles with eagle eyes in the middle of the street. It finally hit me. Ah, GM Week is approaching. A large banner announcing the start of the festival was hanging on a building.“THE GREAT MATCH! Find your match!”The great match. It’s not a soccer game. It’s not a heavyweight boxing title match either. GM Week is a large-scale matchmaking event organized by the country, also known as the matchmaking month. It’s now a global event like Christmas, but it started as a marriage promotion campaign to address population decline.With Heartless causing havoc and the uncertain reality that anyone could become Heartless, the birth rate continued to drop. The population was already decreasing due to accidents caused by Heartless, so the country started interfering in people’s love lives under the guise of GM Week.It’s a survival meeting, but it’s as intense as a boxing match. Initially, GM Week was just a week long, but three years ago, the population drastically decreased, extending it to a month. Everyone had to register whether they had a partner or not. Those without a partner were forced to attend four meetings, one each week, during GM Week.The meetings are hosted by government-approved agencies. The more couples they successfully match, the more special allowances they receive. So, before GM Week, these agencies heavily promote their meetings to attract participants.If a meeting gains a reputation for having good matches, people flock to it, sometimes even lining up overnight to register. During GM Week, the entire nation is obsessed with matchmaking. During this period, most companies give singles long vacations and special bonuses.As a result, consumption increases, boosting the economy. It’s also a festival to help people forget the grim reality of Heartless, so the country heavily promotes GM Week. While the original goal was to increase births, the importance of ‘now’ became more significant due to Heartless, leading to a nationwide matchmaking event for both heterosexuals and homosexuals.With the increasing number of participants, the economic benefits also grew, so the country now registers everyone for GM Week regardless of sexual orientation. To confirm participation, all singles must register their status at the beginning of the year and update it if it changes by a month before GM Week. Of course, I registered as homosexual and participated every year.During this time, all gyms nationwide are crowded, and all beauty treatment businesses thrive. Banners flutter in the streets, and promoters grab my arm every 10 meters. Realizing GM Week had arrived, I headed to 4K. As I opened the office door, three people inside turned to look at me.“Han Jemyung, I heard you moved to our accommodation?”Muscly Man frowned and asked. I smiled deliberately to irritate him.“Yes. I moved with Banggeulbanggeul Moving.”“Ah, Banggeulbanggeul Moving, they’re good.”The plan didn’t work due to Banggeulbanggeul’s reputation. This time, Clicker stepped in and asked.“I heard you agreed to wear a tracker? So why did you move? And Director Kook moved to the accommodation because of that?”The three looked at me disapprovingly because Yangsimless moved across from me, getting closer to them. Should I tell Yangsimless?“Seriously, Han Jemyung, haven’t you apologized to Director Kook yet? He moved to keep an eye on you, and you haven’t even knelt and begged for forgiveness?”It was unfair. Why should I, the victim, be blamed?“Director Kook is worried you’ll die before he can take revenge because everyone he wanted revenge on recently turned up dead.”It was partly my fault. After Clicker stepped back, Drunkard stepped in.“Tell Director Kook what I said. He’ll forgive you.”“What did you say?”“Tell him you like him. Tell him you like him a lot, and everything will be resolved.”Jeers erupted from both sides. They said it was nonsense, that I’d face more revenge, and so on. I couldn’t laugh this time either. Drunkard had a surprisingly good sense.“Why would Director Kook like a low-level Special Affairs employee?”“Right. Director Kook has unique tastes and high standards. He rejected everyone he met during GM Week.”“That’s because they weren’t attractive enough. Han Jemyung has a certain vibe. And have you seen anyone else who stands up to Director Kook while being tormented for so long? Han Jemyung is single, so he’s a perfect match for Director Kook.”Drunkard pointed to the GM Week promotional item in my hand. Seeing it, the other two stepped back simultaneously. What, did they think I’d hit on them?“So you were single.”“Of course. You’ve probably attended GM Week your whole life.”They whispered loud enough for both of them to hear. It was absurd, but I didn’t show it. How did they know I’ve been single my whole life? Trying to hide my embarrassment, I looked at their desks. Like mine, their desks were filled with promotional materials. They’re single too!“Director Kook will attend the private meeting again this time, right? I’d like to go once.”At the mention of the private meeting, I turned my head sharply. The one where only the top-tier singles who have everything get an invitation? Noticing my gaze, Muscly Man lifted his chin proudly.“Yes, Director Kook only attends private meetings. Unless there’s a variable.”A variable? I asked, and Clicker answered.“He missed a lot because he had to attend trials. Director Kook gets sued a lot.”I felt a surge of desire to join the line of plaintiffs.“But Director Kook’s lawyer is very competent. They’ve never lost a case. They even got more money.”I quickly extinguished that desire. Forget about suing. But that whining lawyer is that good?“By the way, another lawsuit came in today. Han Jemyung, you might know about this. The husband of the victim from the first case you attended with Director Kook sued for defamation.”“What did he sue for?”“He said Director Kook called him a pervert… Wait, to be precise, he said ‘I don’t know if you’re a victim or a perverted sexual deviant’ 11 times.”That husband was counting?“Since you know about this, you’ll have to testify. Of course, Director Kook wouldn’t have said that without reason, right?”“That’s right. The husband provoked Director Kook first. But it wasn’t that harsh.”I recalled the memory and started laughing. Didn’t that husband call 4K a “four gay”? Puhaha-“Why? What did the husband say?”“Oh, the husband didn’t know about 4K and called it… four gay… haha-”As I laughed and couldn’t speak, the three blinked in curiosity. What is it? I wanted to share the fun quickly and barely calmed my laughter.“He called 4K ‘four gay.’ Haha- Four gay. Haha- If there were four gay employees here, it would be hilarious…”Apparently, it’s not funny. My laughter vanished like smoke under their cold stares.“Is it funny that we’re gay?”“No, that’s not it…”“I didn’t know people still discriminated these days.”“No, it’s not discrimination…”“I didn’t think a sophisticated Special Affairs employee would be so cruel. Is it that funny that there are four gay employees in our office, excluding CEO Na?”“No, that’s not it… Wait, are there really four gay employees?”Is it really four gay? I had to clench my teeth to hold back my laughter. I suppressed my laughter like a dragon breathing fire through my flared nostrils. But as their expressions grew colder, I had to use another tactic. I changed the subject.“Ahem, so what does 4K stand for?”“There are four Ks in the CEO’s name.”“Since CEO Na has one K, Director Kook must have three in his name.”“Do you think Director Kook would share the company name with someone else?”Huh? So Yangsimless has four Ks in his name?“Director Kook’s name alone has four Ks.”My head spun. To have four Ks in a name… Gasp!“Is Director Kook’s name Gukgakgok?”“…”“Gukgeokgik?”“Are you crazy?”Muscly Man stepped forward from the frozen trio and attacked me.“Who has a name like that? And that’s six Ks, not four.”“I’m bad at math. But calling me crazy is a bit much.”“No, you are crazy.”Even Clicker attacked me.“If there’s anyone named Gukgakgok in the world, let them come forward!”Wi Siwoo’s Daily Life / Special Episode 2Siwoo took a day off, determined to finally dispose of his recycling waste today. At 9 a.m., when the apartment manager unlocked the recycling station, Siwoo confidently walked in with thoroughly sorted recyclables. He wore disposable plastic gloves to prevent dirtying his hands. The apartment manager looked on with a pleased smile at Siwoo’s meticulousness.‘The person neatly sorting recyclables from behind is Wi Siwoo, indeed.’Oh, Siwoo turned around, blushing at the sudden compliment. The handsome apartment manager in his 30s, a former model, had undone about five buttons of his uniform, revealing a hint of chest hair. His uniform bore a sparkling name tag made of custom-made diamonds, shining like the moment of the universe’s creation. Gukgakgok.‘So, Mr. Gakgok is on duty today.’This hard-to-pronounce name was given by parents who wanted their child’s name to be unique in the world, but as it turns out, tens of thousands of parents had the same idea, making it the most common name. For the same reason, names like Gukgeokgik, Gukgeuggok, and Gukgeukgok are also commonly used…I couldn’t sleep properly for days after moving into the new house due to the tension. Though it was more sturdy than the sleazy house, I didn’t even trust the walls, fearing Yangsimless might break through them, so I laid my bedding in the middle of the room.But it was all in vain. Yangsimless had been tied up with urgent work by his lawyer for days and hadn’t even appeared at the office. All I’d done in the meantime was go to the 4K office and write up to the 5th special episode of Wi Siwoo’s Daily Life. Thanks to the special episodes, the 4K staff’s suspicions about the novel seemed to have subsided, but I was the problem.After the incidents with Yangsimless and learning the shocking secret of Soondungi, and finding CEO Na, my persona, no longer attractive, I couldn’t write the novel. On top of that, forcing myself to write Wi Siwoo’s Daily Life to avoid revealing my identity left me feeling powerless. I posted this special episode prepared to hear all kinds of curses. Though views and feedback had increased since Director Kook’s appearance, I expected twice as many insults. But that wasn’t the case.― So, the clothes put out for recycling are taken by businesses. ―From now on, I’ll donate clothes to charity. ―I always wear plastic gloves when taking out recycling. Nice to meet someone else who does! ―Thanks for the unexpected life tip!The reactions were positive. I read the comments, doubting my eyes. My heartfelt novel received only hate comments, but this trivial content was peaceful. They even exchanged information and bonded with each other.My motivation to write was already dampened by personal issues, but the readers’ reactions extinguished what little motivation I had left. On a leisurely Friday afternoon, I sat listlessly in an office that wasn’t mine, guarding it alone. I lay my head on the desk, looking at the list of meetings I had to register for. Some clearly looked like they’d close early.‘Dream Body: Age, height, and weight restrictions for participants.’ ‘Show Me the Money: Membership selected based on thorough documentation. Free bag with 200 million won in cash.’ ‘Catch a Hunter: Meet a hunter who will protect you from Heartless.’Hunters had now risen to the ranks of money and looks in the job market. While professional jobs remained popular, hunters were welcomed by every matchmaking agency, likely because they were seen as protectors. They say the number of hunter license applications skyrockets before GM Week.So even an unscrupulous Yangsimless is popular. Yangsimless said he attends GM Week too, right? He only goes to private meetings, so maybe this time he’ll find a real match. Then his interest in me will wane…“Can you wait until GM Week?”Gasp! Startled, I turned around to see CEO Na standing over the partition. Oh, you’re here. I stood up to greet him, but he didn’t take his eyes off the list I was looking at. Feeling awkward about being caught looking at flyers, I tried to divert his attention.“Wait for what?”“I thought you might be thinking you could escape Director Kook during GM Week.”What a psychic. The shamanic blood runs strong in his family. He must have taken my hesitation as confirmation, as he smiled gently.“That wouldn’t be bad, but there’s still two weeks left. Try a quicker method.”“Are you suggesting I set up a blind date for Director Kook?”“There’s the opposite too. You could quickly get a partner, Han Jemyung.”I’ve been single my whole life; how could I suddenly get a partner? Even if a miracle happened and I got a partner, it would be a problem.“If Director Kook takes revenge on my partner, it won’t matter.”“Then find someone who wouldn’t be affected by the revenge.”“Is there such a person in the world?”“Yes, me.”“…”I didn’t know how to react. After an awkward silence, I finally managed to force out a laugh.“Ha, ha, ha. That’s an interesting joke.”“It’s not a joke.”“Well, since we’re relatives and I know you well, even if I get revenge, it wouldn’t affect you much. I admit that.”“Then, did you think making me your girlfriend was a joke?”“Honestly, it sounded more like teasing than a joke.”At my words, he laughed and said seriously.“It’s not a joke. If you need help, I’d like to offer it.”He wants to be my boyfriend? I almost shouted “Sure!” but barely held it in. If it were before, I would have gotten lost in the fantasy of starting as a fake boyfriend and turning into a real one, but not now. Now that the haze is lifting, I’ve become quite practical.“Then what should I give you?”“You don’t need to give me anything.”“Then I don’t need your help either.”“I’m sorry. I must have hurt Mr. Han Jemyung’s pride.”He was quick-witted. Yes, that’s right. I nodded, admitting it.“Then let’s say it’s for this reason. Since I don’t attend GM weekly meetings anyway, I need a contract relationship. If Mr. Han Jemyung becomes my partner, I’ll benefit too.”“But in this contract relationship, we can’t have sex based on an agreement between adults. That’s usually one of the benefits of a contract relationship, isn’t it? So it would be a loss for CEO Na.”He smiled again.“Sex based on an agreement between adults can happen without a contract relationship.”“Then I don’t have to be the one. Unless you’re after my butt.”“I haven’t had time to properly look at your butt yet.”I slightly pushed my butt back to show him.“It’s ordinary.”He didn’t really look at my butt but grinned more widely.“If I’m with Mr. Han Jemyung, I’ll have a conversation partner more enjoyable than sex, so it will be a gain.”“I’ll be a pleasant conversation partner anytime. So there’s no need to help me.”“Don’t you want to get away from Director Kook quickly?”“That and pity are different matters.”“I’m not pitying you. I just want to help.”“Whether it’s pity or not is up to the person receiving it.”The quick conversation paused for a moment. He silently looked at me. I awkwardly smiled and added,“Of course, if you ask me about three more times, I’ll pretend not to notice and accept…”“I was arrogant. If you need me later, please let me know. I’ll gladly be your boyfriend.”No, I asked for it two more times. Did I miss a good opportunity trying to maintain my pride? I sent a sharp look to express my feelings, but he only kept talking nonsense.“I think Mr. Han Jemyung would handle Director Kook better than anyone.”“Definitely not.”“And I, too.”“That’s not… Wait, what?”You? I blinked in surprise and looked at him. He flashed his usual smile.“Mr. Han Jemyung tends to strike unexpectedly when you don’t see it coming.”“Did you like my butt?”“Excuse me? Hahaha—no, hahaha—that’s not it, hahaha—”He waved his hand while holding his waist, laughing. No need to deny it so strongly. But if my butt made him that happy, it’s fine. CEO Na barely calmed his laughter and wiped his eyes. He cries when he laughs.“Mr. Han Jemyung, can you let me know which GM weekly meeting you’ll be attending?”“Stop talking nonsense.”The sudden voice wasn’t mine. I turned around in surprise, and Yangsimless was standing by the door. CEO Na glanced at him and spoke to me.“If you can’t decide where to attend, I have a few places I’d like to recommend.”“Don’t make a fool of yourself, Jinwook.”“Mr. Han Jemyung, I’ll only choose a place where you can meet someone cooler than a stalker.”Crash! The sudden noise froze me. The table Yangsimless kicked fell to the floor. The office atmosphere turned tense. The smile disappeared from CEO Na’s face. Then the two of them locked eyes, staring each other down. This time, CEO Na spoke firmly, as if he wasn’t going to let it go with laughter.“How long do you think I’ll tolerate your childish behavior?”“You always just talk.”CEO Na’s eyes narrowed. Yangsimless’ gaze became even more intense. Even I was out of breath watching them. And then Yangsimless took a step forward. I quickly raised my hand.“Let’s eat first!”The two of them turned to look at me at the same time. Now, their intense gazes were on me. I turned the awkwardness into an awkward smile.“It’s already past lunchtime.”Neither of them responded. I slowly lowered my raised arm, ready to make a quick escape. Damn, I hope a fight between cousins doesn’t end in injury…“Are you hungry?”Yangsimless asked. I nodded, and he came over to grab my arm and pull me.“Let’s go. I’m hungry too.”As I was dragged along, I looked back, and CEO Na was giving me an absurd smile. Bang, the door slammed shut, and as I stepped out of the office, I realized: this scene of being dragged out by someone holding my arm is just like something that happens to the weak protagonist in my novels! A sense of shock spread within me. Then, as I tried to pull my arm away, I stopped when I saw Yangsimless’ back. Wait, he’s this tall, and his shoulders are that broad?My many years of failing during GM Week have given me some meeting know-how. Like everyone else, I start GM Week with high hopes and diligently attend meetings, but by the last week, I realize it’s not going to happen this year either. I add another layer to my belief that there’s no match for me in this world.The reason for my GM Week failures is clear. My standards are too high. My ideal type is a perfect person who could only exist in novels, making it impossible to meet them in reality. Even if they did exist, they wouldn’t attend the typical meetings I go to. But I couldn’t give up on my dream, so I made a list of what I wanted.When Byunghee heard my standards, he was dumbfounded, especially at the last condition.‘Do you not want to date? Is this your way of planning to stay single forever?’What do you mean? I dream of a beautiful romance.‘Give it up. Let go of some standards. Leave just one out of the four if you want a chance at a fling.’I couldn’t. I couldn’t give up any of them.‘Great. Let’s stay single together, live next door, and be friends forever.’I could give up a little. If I had to choose just one, it would be number 4.‘You know that’s the hardest one, right? With so many things to be a fan of, who would fan over you?’If they like me, they could fan over me.‘Maybe a crazy serial killer stalker would make you a good target.’I revised my condition.A mentally sound person who loves only me for life.That was my final line. Byunghee finally gave me a thumbs up.‘Well, with luck, you might be able to date in a few years.’‘Really?’‘Sure. Think about it. Suppose there’s someone completely broke with no debts, barely looks acceptable, has a terrible personality, and is a human trash. But they are mentally sound. No one likes them, and they are destined to be single for life, but if they only have to like you, wouldn’t they? Even I’d develop love if you promised to take care of me, not interfere with my hobbies, and accept me as I am.’If I didn’t know Byunghee was straight, I might have punched him. I kept the four conditions in my heart, but when I went to meetings, I only remembered the last revised condition. All that mattered was they liked me and only me. I prayed earnestly like a girl before sleep. But busy life and running from someone’s revenge made me momentarily forget. Suddenly, in a quiet soybean sprout hangover soup place, it came back to me. Is it really enough if they only like me?“This place was the best meal, right?”“Me?”“Section Chief Bae. He said you insisted on eating here, and it was highly praised as the best meal. Isn’t that right?”His sharp gaze seemed to say that if I denied it, he wouldn’t let Section Chief Bae off. I quietly gave a thumbs up. Only then did Yangsimless relax and look around.“Must be really good. Are these soybean sprouts raised with broth?”“Isn’t it Chilsoo?”“Who’s that? A soybean sprout artisan?”I forgot that joking with this guy would return as a whirlwind of confusion. In the past, I’d lament, calling him a human boomerang, but now, such words didn’t come easily. Whether I got used to it or for other reasons, I still don’t know.“If there’s a soybean sprout artisan, it would be my grandmother.”“A grandmother named Chilsoo, that’s unique.”“…No. My grandmother just often grew soybean sprouts. She lived in the countryside and grew beans in the garden in front of the house. In autumn, she’d harvest and grow soybean sprouts all year. There was always a basket covered with a black cloth on one side of the sink. Putting the basket on a container that could drain water made it a place to grow soybean sprouts.”Just cover it with a black cloth, and that’s it. When I was young, I couldn’t understand why my grandmother grew soybean sprouts. You could buy bigger, plumper sprouts at the store.“I didn’t know back then, but the beans she grew were heirloom seeds, not from a giant seed company.”“Your grandmother was wise. Soybeans are typical genetically modified foods. Better to be cautious.”The cause of Heartless is unknown, but it’s speculated to be due to multiple reasons. Environmental pollution, genetically modified foods, fine dust, modern stress—all these issues are suspected. The exact cause is still unknown. But as many died and much human achievement was destroyed, people finally addressed the festering problems they had silently acknowledged.As a natural result, the air became cleaner. The ozone layer’s holes shrank, and it was said that weather anomalies would decrease. This natural outcome came at such a high price that it’s sad to accept as a human. Why didn’t we make an effort when everyone was alive? This question always arises when we see the numbers reflecting population decline.“Han Jemyung, you grew up eating natural foods from a young age. Now I understand.”