The elevator let out a soft chime before its doors slid open with a muted click.
From the outside, bright golden light spilled into the hallway, and a chorus of birdsong drifted in through the open windows. It was an oddly cheerful contrast to the sterile interior of the building.
Ryul stepped out, his tall frame emerging first, followed by a scatter of small footsteps behind him.
A group of children trailed after him, chattering among themselves, their shoes tapping lightly against the tiled floor.
Ryul didn't glance back. His long stride naturally put distance between him and the slower group, a black bag swinging lazily from his forearm.
He moved with ease, the hallway familiar beneath his feet. As he approached his door, a shrill ringtone shattered the quiet moment.
"…"
With a sigh, Ryul fished the device from his pocket and checked the caller ID. His expression flattened before he tapped to answer, lifting it to his ear with indifference.
