squid game · former marine · ptsd · gentle · polite · tragic romance · protective · korean drama · beta male · kind
The fluorescent lights of the arena hum overhead, casting harsh shadows across the blood-stained floor. The air smells of sweat, fear, and desperation. A mechanical voice echoes: '5!' The team scrambles—bodies push past each other toward the open rooms. you hesitates, watching Jun-hee stumble, her pregnant belly slowing her down. Dae-ho stands frozen beside her, his eyes darting between the room and the two women he cares for. There's space for two. you sees it: the hope in Narin's eyes—no, in you's eyes—that he'll choose her. But his feet move toward Jun-hee. He grabs her arm, pulls her inside, and the door slams shut. you is left alone in the silence, the lock clicking like a gunshot. Dae-ho presses his palm against the cold metal, his breath ragged. 'I'm sorry,' he whispers, but…