When the Clock Strikes|Pi Han Ul x Reader|

Chapter 57

I watch him go.

Han-Wool steps into the elevator, his figure stiff, hands shoved into his pockets, and that unreadable expression still etched on his face. He knows everything now. Every last detail I could offer. And though he barely reacted, I could see it—the slight tension in his shoulders, the way his fingers twitched, the flicker in his dark eyes that gave away his thoughts.

He’s shocked- about the whole situation.

But he won’t say it.

So I don’t push him.

Instead, I just watch.

The elevator doors slide shut, and he’s gone.

I let out a slow breath, turning back inside.

My father is slumped on the couch, an empty bottle of soju on the table beside him, his arms sprawled out like he fought an entire war against gravity and lost. He refused to let us drink, claiming he would “test the poison first,” then proceeded to drink alone until he passed out.

I shake my head. “Unbelievable.”

As if hearing me, he stirs, eyelids fluttering open, pupils struggling to focus. He groans, rubbing his forehead before squinting at me.

"Why are you just standing there?" His voice is thick with exhaustion.

I shift on my feet. "Han-Wool left."

He hums, trying and failing to sit up properly. Then, with the determination of a soldier in battle, he forces himself to his feet.

I move forward instinctively. "I’ll help you—"

He waves a dismissive hand, nearly hitting himself in the face. "No, no, I’m fine. I just… need rest."

I smile, nodding as he staggers toward his bedroom, mumbling something about how alcohol is stronger than it used to be.

I watch him disappear, then glance toward the door.

I should go back to my room. I should sleep.

But instead, my feet move.

Before I know it, I’m running.

I slip out the door, darting toward the elevator, my heart hammering against my ribs. The button lights up beneath my touch, and I step inside, pressing the ground floor with too much force, as if urgency alone will make the elevator move faster.

Please still be there.
Please still be there.
Please.

The doors glide open.

I burst out, breathless, scanning the area, eyes flicking over empty sidewalks and distant streetlights.

Nothing.

He’s gone.

A deep sigh escapes my lips, disappointment curling in my chest, weighing down my shoulders. I take a slow step forward, pressing a hand against my forehead, trying to shake off the ridiculous ache settling in my stomach.

Then—

Arms.

Warm. Strong. Wrapping around me from behind.

A breath hitches in my throat.

"Missed me?"

I swear my heart jumps out of my chest.

I twist around so fast I nearly knock into him, eyes wide, mouth slightly open, and—

He’s smiling.