Page 221 of Scarbound

“He isn’t missing.” The words came too fast.

Jun went still.

Chung-Hee seemed to realize his mistake. “He asked for leave,” he added.

Jun studied him. “Then tell me where he is.”

“I don’t know.”

“Call him.”

Chung-Hee’s jaw tightened. “Leave.”

Jun didn’t move. “Tell me Noeul isn’t here.”

“He isn’t here.”

Jun looked again toward the closed bedroom door. “Then you won’t mind if I check.”

Chung-Hee stepped in front of him. “No.”

Jun’s stomach dropped.

“Move.”

“This is my home.”

“Where is he?”

“I said leave.”

“Chung-Hee.”

Jun’s voice changed. Not playful now. Not the CFO. His friend.

“Where is Noeul?”

Chung-Hee stared at him. The silence stretched.

Then a phone began to ring. Both men froze. It came from the bedroom. Jun looked toward the door. Chung-Hee didn’t.

The ringing stopped. Then started again.

Jun moved.

Chung-Hee blocked him.

“Move.”

“No.”

Jun shoved past him. Chung-Hee grabbed his arm, but Jun tore free.

The phone continued ringing.

From somewhere outside, another sound reached them. The garden door sliding open.

Chung-Hee’s face changed. “No.”