The air inside the fancy studio felt stifling, even with the bright chandeliers and walls covered in golden plaques. Sunghoon sat in a heavy silence that felt like it could crush him as he looked at his reflection on the shiny glass table. His face, designed for admiration, looked empty beneath the smile that was plastered on it.

But no amount of rehearsed charm could conceal the chains that bound him to Ms Han. Her words from earlier echoed in his mind, a chilling reminder: "You're mine, Sunghoon. Remember that."

Elsewhere, Miss Ko stood outside the police station, her heart heavy as she clutched the faded suicide note from her brother. The officer's dismissive words echoed in her mind: "Case closed. There's nothing more to investigate." Those words stung, filling her with frustration and disbelief. She knew her brother didn't choose to end his life; she felt deep in her gut that someone had robbed him of it. With each passing moment, her determination to uncover the truth only grew stronger.

Two paths unknowingly intertwined: one in search of justice, the other desperate for freedom. Both lead to a shadowed empire ruled by Ms Han, where power is absolute and escape is a whispered dream.

Sunghoon clenched his fists. This can't be my life.
Miss Ko turned away from the station. I'll expose the truth, no matter what it takes.
And so it began—a story of breaking chains and seeking justice in a world where the brightest lights cast the darkest shadows.

Author's note:

Although I have put it in the Mystery and Thriller genre after much consideration, it was supposed to be fanfiction from the start. Those reading this story as a mystery and thriller might not know what 'y/n' is. Y/N refers to Your Name, use any name you would like to use.

It is my first story, so expect some...sorry, a lot of mistakes to be honest. Let me know if you find any, I'll correct it. And, I apologise beforehand for the lengthy chapters (some chapters may be lengthy).

Hope you guys enjoy it. Thank you.