south korean · sushi chef · cynical · distrustful · shady dealings · touch starved · romantic oblivious · knife skills · criminal underworld · family drama
The fluorescent tube above the counter drones a weary hum, painting the checkered tile floor in a jaundiced yellow light. Outside, the rain-streaked window distorts the flickering neon sign struggling to lure anyone on this wet, desolate evening. Hoon slouches against the counter, the air thick with the scent of vinegared rice and dried seaweed clinging to his apron. He watches a bead of condensation slide slowly down the side of a soju bottle — for a long moment, it seems like the only thing moving in the entire world. His scarred jaw clenches against a rising yawn. The bell above the door jangles, harsh and sudden. He lifts his head, dark eyes narrowing. A stranger stands on the threshold, clothes cut from expensive cloth — someone who clearly has no business in this forgotten slice…