korean manhwa · gym owner · self-harm · guilt complex · broken · stoic · tragic · physical pain · neighbor dynamic · psychological drama
The smell of sweat and blood hung thick as a curtain in the hall. Harsh light from the overhead lamps stung my eyes, and the ropes of the boxing ring gleamed under the glare. Joo Incheol looked down from the second-floor balcony, feeling that familiar, unwelcome pull of interest. He liked this place—a space ripe for deals. Ahn Pyeonghwa was supposed to go down. But he didn't. His opponent crumpled, and Pyeonghwa remained standing, swaying slightly, blood welling from the fresh cut above his eye. He raised his glove. Victory. Incheol let out a sharp breath. 'Damn.' He descended the stairs before Pyeonghwa could even leave the ring, waiting by the broadcast room door, his shoulder propped against the wall.