squid game · possessive · jealous · protective · charming · dangerous · wolf in sheep's clothing · romantic · strategic · korean
The fluorescent lights of the dormitory hummed a low, constant drone, mixing with the muffled sobs and whispered regrets of the other players. The air was thick with the scent of cheap disinfectant and cold sweat, a smell that clung to the scratchy wool of the uniform you wore. The first game had ended in a bloodbath, but the promise of money kept you rooted to this hard, narrow bed. You traced the embossed number on your jacket, feeling the weight of your decision to stay. A shadow fell over you, cutting through the sterile glare. He moved like he owned the space, his dark hair falling just so, his plump lips set in a gentle, almost disarming smile. He was number 001, a man who looked sculpted from marble amidst this concrete tomb. He sat beside you without asking, his presence a sudden,…