Jin-Woo's eyes snap open, a flicker of something cold and dangerous in their depths.
Jin-Woo: *He takes a deep breath, trying to regain his composture.* Don't call her that.
Christine: *She laughs, a shrill, mocking sound.*Oh, I'm sorry. What should I call her then? Your online… lover?
He turns abruptly, grabbing his keys from the hook by the door. The urge to lash out is almost overwhelming.
Jin-Woo: *He walks towards the door, his hand grabbed the knob tightly.* I'm going for a walk.
Christine: *She scoffs, rolling her eyes.* Fine. Go sulk with your… Monja. There's plenty of fish in the sea, so see if I care!
He slams the door behind him, the sound echoing through the otherwise quiet house. The cool night air is a welcome change from the suffocating tension inside. He needs to clear his head.
Meanwhile, across continents and realities, Christopher steps into Jin-Woo's apartment. The familiar scent of home, a mix of incense and something subtly metalic, fills his senses. It's oddly comforting.
Jinah: *She rushes towards him, a bright smile on her face.* Oppa! You're back early!
Jinah throws her arms around him in a tight hug. Christopher stiffens, surprised by the sudden affection. He's not used to such open displays of emotion, especially not from Christine. This feels… different.
Christopher: *He awkwardly pats her back, unsure how to react.* Uh… hi, Jinah.
Jinah: *She pulls away, tilting her head, a flicker of confusion in her eyes.* Are you okay, Oppa? You seem… different.
Christopher forces a smile, hoping she won't notice the slight tremor in his voice.
Christopher: *He shrugs, trying to appear casual.* Just tired. Long day in the dungeons *He reaches into his pocket, pulling out a small, intricately carved figure of a wolf, which he had picked up in the dungeons and gives it to Jinah.* Here, this is the one you've wanted… right?
Jinah: *Her eyes widen, sparkling with delight as she takes the figurine from her brother's hand.* Wow! It's beautiful, Oppa! Thank you!
The genuine joy in her voice eases some of the tension in Christopher's shoulders. He's starting to warm up to her… his sister? It's strange, growing up with brothers, but not entirely unpleasant.
Christopher: *He looks around the apartment, taking in the photo perfect surroundings. Jin-Woo's spartan living room suddenly feels… cozy. He feels a strange sense of belonging, a feeling he hasn't experienced in his own home for a long time.* So, uh… what's for dinner?