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The boy in the white sweater walked among the small flower trees, the recollection of that deep black tattoo still fresh in his mind. Nevertheless, he made an effort to push those thoughts to the side.
Up ahead, he noticed a claw machine. Nostalgia swept over him, even though he had never had the opportunity to truly relish these kinds of amusements as a child. He had yearned to fit in with other kids back then.
But now, he was all grown up.
However, the mafia leader couldn't help but notice it. The way Jeongin's eyes glistened and his lips parted in a mixture of excitement and perhaps a hint of fear. "Want to give it a try, petal?" he inquired.
Jeongin turned to him, his lips quivering with uncertainty. "Um... can I, really? I mean, I'm not small enough..."
Chris offered a soft chuckle. "Of course, you can. These machines aren't just meant for 'children.' Go ahead and give it a try," he encouraged Jeongin to have a go.
"I feel like I'm wasting your money," Jeongin whispered under his breath as he made his way to the claw machine, a touch of guilt nagging at him.
"Mm—hm?" Chan shook his head, wearing a playful smile. "I have no idea what you're talking about. We're here to have a good time, that's all," he reassured Jeongin.
Ah... What was that? Did Jeongin's heart skip a beat again, all because of the dimple he spotted on Chris's right cheek? "I must be going insane," Jeongin mused to himself.
As Jeongin inserted the tokens and grasped the controller, a rosy blush colored his cheeks. But he wanted this so badly, a desire to experience it that burned within him. He was practically dying for this opportunity, and now he had it. So, he began to operate the claw machine.
"Yang Jeongin~ Yang Jeongin~" Chris cheered him on with a playful tone, and Jeongin couldn't help but chuckle. "Hyung, please stop! You're embarrassing me!" He blushed but couldn't hide his smile.
"Haha... Ha." Jisung laughed along with them awkwardly, making an effort to show that he was still present.
Jeongin continued to focus on the game, but both Chris and Jisung received a message on their phones.
🗨️ ⸽ Lewis We've made it to the so-called neglected basement. But it seems there's more to it than meets the eye.
🗨️ ⸽ Peter That's the spot!
🗨️ ⸽ Chris. Investigate thoroughly and uncover everything you can.
Changbin took a long drag from his cigarette and responded to the chat with a thumbs-up emoji. Exhaling a puff of smoke, he added, "Remember, not a single corner of this room should remain unexplored."
