Page 52 of Scarbound

He turned to Mr. Choi. “This is my assistant’s number. If anything comes up, contact him immediately.”

Then he looked at Noeul. “And if you need me… call me.”

Noeul nodded.

Chung-Hee hesitated for a second. “I know the conditions are excessive. But after what happened, not knowing whether you’re safe is something I can’t tolerate yet. We agreed you’ll keep me updated. If you don’t answer, I’ll assume something’s happened.” The corner of his mouth lifted slightly. “And when I start worrying… I tend to overreact. So don’t put me in that position.”

“I won’t.”

Only then did Chung-Hee leave.

The apartment fell quiet. Mr. Choi waited until the elevator doors closed before turning back to Noeul.

“Mr. Lee seems very concerned about you.” He smiled apologetically. “I hope you don’t mind me saying that.”

“No.” Noeul shook his head. “You didn’t say anything wrong. He can be… a little excessive.” A small, tired smile crossed his face. “But he treats me better than I deserve.”

Mr. Choi regarded him for a moment. “Better than you deserve?”

He folded his hands calmly in front of him. “I’ve worked with many patients over the years. The ones who say things like that usually don’t believe they deserve much kindness themselves.”

Noeul lowered his eyes. “Maybe. Or maybe you just don’t know me well enough.”

Mr. Choi smiled warmly. “Would you like something to eat or drink? I’m here to help. Since you’ve started physical therapy, I’ll also be assisting you with your exercises.”

Noeul glanced toward the large windows before looking back at him. “Would it be all right if we went for a walk instead? I’ve been in the hospital for so long… I just want to move again.”

“Of course, but only a short one,” Mr. Choi said. “We’ll walk slowly, and if you feel weak or dizzy, we’ll come straight back.” He reached for his coat before helping Noeul into his own. “Fresh air sounds like an excellent idea.”

The sky remained overcast, but neither of them minded. After days spent inside a hospital room, even the cool November air felt refreshing. They walked at an easy pace, remaining close to the apartment.

“Do you have a family, Mr. Choi?” Noeul asked, his hands tucked into the pockets of his jacket, a knitted beanie pulled low over his ears.

Mr. Choi smiled. “A daughter.” His expression softened. “She lives in Hong Kong with her mother.”

Noeul noticed the brief sadness that crossed the man’s face.

“I don’t get to see her as often as I’d like,” Mr. Choi admitted. “But we speak regularly, and I’m grateful she’s healthy and happy.” He looked at Noeul. “And you, Noeul? Tell me about yourself.”

Noeul blinked. He opened his mouth, then closed it again.

For a moment, he realized he no longer knew how to describe himself without mentioning everything that had gone wrong.

Mr. Choi chuckled softly. “There’s no right answer. Just tell me whatever comes to mind.”

Noeul thought for a few seconds. “I have a younger brother. He’s seventeen.” A small smile appeared. “I like hiking. And painting.”

He looked ahead as they continued walking. “They’re the only places where silence doesn’t hurt.”

He laughed quietly at himself. “What else? My favorite drink is coffee. Or maybe beer. Or a few cocktails I can think of.” He laughed again. “No, probably coffee. Oh, and I’ve never liked sweets.”

Mr. Choi smiled. “I think that’s a perfectly good introduction.”

The quiet rhythm of their walk was interrupted by the sharp buzz of a phone vibrating inside Noeul’s pocket.

He didn’t need to look at the screen. He already knew who it was.

With a quiet sigh, he answered. “Hey, hyung.”