Peninsula: From a supporting actor to the best actor in Chungmuro

Chapter 158 Ice Bucket Challenge
The van glided along the quiet tree-lined road.

The car's heater dispelled the chilly feeling I had just brought back from the airport.

Hwang Jung-min took off his bulky down jacket and, wearing only a large gray cashmere sweater, sank into the back seat, closing his eyes to rest. His brows showed the fatigue of a long flight, and his nasolabial folds appeared even deeper.

"Teacher, what are the plans for the next two days? I need to rest for a few days, right?"

Hwang Jung-min's eyelids twitched, but he didn't open them fully.

"Take a few days off? Luo Hongzhen is keeping a close eye on things; the 'Wailing' crew is waiting to report for duty."

He clicked his tongue, as if he had already foreseen the difficulties of filming:

"He's been rewriting this script for two years; it's probably going to be a grueling job."

—Luo Hongzhen.

One of Chungmuro's top directors.

Known for his almost obsessive control and his ability to push actors to their limits, his directorial work, "The Yellow Sea," earned Ha Jung-woo the Baeksang Arts Awards Best Actor trophy that Hwang Jung-min had longed for but always just missed.

Kang Jae-hoon clicked his tongue in amazement.

The teacher is worthy of being a teacher.

Resources are like an inexhaustible underground water vein, one heavyweight project after another, with absolutely no downtime.

The carriage fell silent for a moment.

The navigation prompt "Turn right in 500 meters" was clearly audible.

After a while.

The car drove into the underground parking garage of a high-rise apartment building with excellent privacy.

Kang Jae-hoon and Kim Dae-won quickly helped Hwang Jung-min unload several huge suitcases.

Take the elevator directly.

The door opens.

As Hwang Jungmin pressed the fingerprint lock, he gestured with his chin towards Kang Jae-hoon, who was still helping him move his luggage into the entryway:
"Put it down and come in and sit for a while."

"Ok?"

"I've been tagged. Ice Bucket Challenge. Can you pour me some water?"

Huang Zhengmin explained succinctly.

It turned out to be the case.

Jiang Zaixun suddenly realized, and then nodded: "I understand."

The Ice Bucket Challenge, a charity event to raise funds for ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), has become a sensation in the entertainment industry in Europe and America, and its popularity has spread all the way to South Korea, where it is currently trending.

After entering the house.

Hwang Jung-min took off his coat and pointed to the bathtub in the bathroom:
"Let's go there."

Kang Jae-hoon quickly went to the kitchen to find tools.

Kim Dae-won set up the recording equipment in the bathroom.

soon.

everything's ready.

The DV camera started running.

Hwang Jung-min cleared his throat and got straight to the point:
"Hello everyone, I am actor Hwang Jung-min. This is my apprentice, Kang Jae-hoon."

The words fell.

The two bowed simultaneously towards the camera.

“I’m honored to be nominated for this meaningful Ice Bucket Challenge. ALS patients and their families endure unimaginable pain and challenges. I hope that through this small challenge, we can raise more awareness of this disease, and I also hope that everyone can generously donate to contribute to the fight against ALS. I will also respond to the call and make a donation…”

His wording was official and sincere, conveying the core message of charity precisely without being sentimental.

then.

He then changed the subject and moved on to the roll call:
"Now, I'm going to call on Ji Jin-hee."

This name was expected.

Ji Jin-hee is Hwang Jung-min's longtime friend. They were close brothers who struggled together in the drama club when they were young and endured many difficult years together.

"Cho Seung-woo-xi".

Not surprising either.

Cho Seung-woo is not only his brother from the theater era, but also one of Chungmuro's top acting actors today. He and Hwang Jung-min are like brothers and friends, and they cherish each other.

"besides……"

After these two names were announced.

Jiang Zaixun bent down and lifted the heavy bucket of ice water mixture, its edges condensed with cold air, ready to pour the water precisely as soon as the teacher finished speaking.

“...Lee Sung-kyung-ssi.”

"Wow——!"

It wasn't the ice water that Kang Jae-hoon slipped and fell on.

It was a moment of shock that exploded in his mind.

The ice in the bucket wobbled due to the brief movement, and a few drops of ice water splashed onto Hwang Jung-min's clothes, leaving dark spots.

He knew Ji Jin-hee and Cho Seung-woo.

That was a bond that the teachers had formed since their youth; they were old friends who could drink and chat freely, and even call each other in the middle of the night to yell at each other.

They are of equal status and carry sufficient weight.

but……

Lee Sung-kyung?
Is it Lee Sung-kyung, who is occasionally jokingly referred to as "your lioness" by Kim Dae-won?

This leap... is way too big!
One is a legend who has stood in the film industry for more than 20 years, holds two Best Actor awards, and is now aiming for a Grand Slam.

One is a rising star actress who focuses on fashion and television, and whose important moment is just beginning tonight.

Jin Dayuan was also visibly taken aback for a moment.

I forgot to pick up the toothpick that fell from the corner of my mouth.

Hwang Jung-min seemed completely oblivious to his apprentice's stunned expression.

After saying his name, he calmly nodded in the direction of Kang Jae-hoon.

This indicates that we can begin.

Kang Jae-hoon forcibly suppressed the questions and a sense of absurdity that filled his mind.

Take a deep breath.

His gaze refocused.

With a steady effort, he poured the bucket of icy water mixed with ice directly over Huang Zhengmin's head!

Crash——!!!
The icy water lashed violently against Huang Zhengmin's head and shoulders, drenching him instantly.

Even though they were prepared in advance.

The bone-chilling cold still caused his body to shudder uncontrollably.

His facial features instantly contorted into a wrinkled chrysanthemum shape.

He unconsciously let out a short, muffled groan: "Hiss—ho!"

But he gritted his teeth, stubbornly maintained his composure as a Best Actor winner in front of the camera—

Aside from the uncontrollable physiological tremors.

The sound of rushing water swirled and disappeared from the bathroom drain.

Kang Jae-hoon put the empty bucket aside.

He grabbed a large, dry bath towel from the side and handed it to Hwang Jung-min, who was soaking wet and struggling to control his trembling jaw.

Huang Zhengmin took the bath towel and haphazardly wrapped it around his head and upper body.

Kang Jae-hoon didn't ask about the earth-shattering "Lee Sung-kyung-ssi".

Hwang Jung-min's decisions never needed to be explained to him.

Even if you ask, you may not get an answer.

It might have been a spur-of-the-moment thing.

It could be about mentoring younger generations.

also possible……

It's a consideration that Kang Jae-hoon can't quite grasp yet.

He silently picked up another towel, squatted down, and deftly wiped the water-splattered floor tiles and the edge of the bathtub, picking up the scattered ice cubes and throwing them into the sink.

They moved quickly and efficiently.

His expression was calm.

Jin Dayuan helped pack up the recording equipment and tactfully retreated to the living room.

Huang Zhengmin dried his hair, glanced at his apprentice who was working silently, his lips twitched but he didn't say anything, and went to the bedroom wrapped in a bath towel.

When Kang Jae-hoon finished restoring the bathroom and dried the water stains, he came out to find Hwang Jung-min had changed into dry pajamas and was sitting on the living room sofa making hot tea.

Kang Jae-hoon's gaze naturally swept over the temperature-controlled wine cabinet embedded in the wall on one side of the living room.

Inside, a dazzling array of fine wines from around the world are quietly displayed.

Without stopping, he walked straight over, opened the glass door, and his gaze fell precisely on a bottle of red wine with a simple label design and a deep purple-red liquid that was translucent.

—M Montes Ofa, Chile.

He remembered that Lim Yoona had mentioned that Lee Soon-kyu liked the fruity aroma of New World red wine.

This product has a good price-performance ratio and tastes great, and importantly, Huang Zhengmin has stored quite a lot of it.

Without hesitation, he reached out and took it out:

"Teacher, I'll take this bottle."

Kang Jae-hoon shook the bottle and reported.

Hwang Jung-min merely raised his eyelids and hummed in agreement, tacitly approving that he was "borrowing flowers from his liquor cabinet to present to Buddha".

……

Downstairs at a luxury apartment building.

Kang Jae-hoon, carrying a bag of liquor, leaned against the car and dialed a phone:
"Nuna, downstairs."

"Okay, okay—"

Lee Soon-kyu's drawn-out voice came through the receiver, accompanied by a noisy background, a mix of game sound effects and a kitten's meows:

"Wait! This little devil is clinging to my pants and won't let me leave!"

The phone slammed down.

Less than five minutes.

The unit door clicked open.

Lee Soon-kyu rushed out in a flurry of activity, her face bare, her hair casually pulled up in a tangled mess, and a thin down jacket hastily wrapped around her light gray loungewear, like she was wrapped up as a restless cicada pupa.

"Thank you for taking good care of it, Nuna."

As Kang Jae-hoon handed over the red wine, he also took the cat carrier.

Lee Soon-kyu glanced at the wine label and raised an eyebrow:

"Oh, you actually have a conscience, you didn't just try to fool me with a bottle of liquor."

Kang Jae-hoon shook his head and chuckled:
"How can it be!"

"Okay, I'll go up."

Lee Soon-kyu turned around briskly, took a couple of steps, then remembered something, turned back and shook the bottle of red wine in his hand:
"Thanks! This is much more reliable than some guys who just boss people around on the phone!"

means something.

Without waiting for Kang Jae-hoon's reaction, he casually swiped his card and entered the apartment building.

……

070805.

Kang Jae-hoon smoothly entered the access code for Im Yoon-ah's apartment.

The electronic lock beeped softly, and the door opened in response.

The entryway sensor light is soft and bright.

The little princess was released from the box, paused briefly, then smelled the familiar scent, raised her tail, and lightly treaded her small steps to patrol her territory, which she hadn't seen for over a month.

Kang Jae-hoon did not turn on the headlights.

Only the floor lamp in the corner of the living room was turned on.

The light was dim.

He sat cross-legged on the carpet and picked up a cat toy, waving it in the warm light.

The calico cat was immediately attracted.

Crouching low, eyes wide open, hind legs braced, a sudden cat pounce!
With a flick of his wrist, Jiang Zai Xun sent the feathers just brushing past the tip of its nose.

It was unwilling to give up, so it turned around, twisted its body, and tried again.

A person and a cat engage in a silent battle in the soft light and shadow, with only the faint, intermittent sound of bells.

Half an hour later.

The little one got tired of playing, jumped onto the sofa armrest, curled up into a fluffy ball, his little belly bobbing up and down, and started to doze off.

Kang Jae-hoon put down the cat toy.

Get up.

I carefully checked the remaining food in the feeder.

The cleanliness of the litter box.

They confirmed that each window was closed.

There is plenty of water.

At last.

Press the master switch with your fingertip.

The warm yellow lights went out one by one.

The city's neon lights cast blurry, flowing shadows on the polished tiles through the floor-to-ceiling windows.

He closed the door.

The combination lock clicked softly, locking away the warmth and the soft snores behind me.

Sigrún has taught at the Iceland University of the Arts as a part-time lecturer since and was Dean of the Department of Fine Art from -. In – she held a research position at Reykjavík Art Museum focusing on the role of women in Icelandic art. She studied fine art at the Icelandic College of Arts and Crafts and at Pratt Institute, New York, and holds BA and MA degrees in art history and philosophy from the University of Iceland. Sigrún lives and works in Iceland.

The car rejoined the evening traffic in Seoul.

The neon lights are just coming on.

I was passing by a dessert shop with a great reputation.

Kang Jae-hoon signaled to Kim Dae-won to pull over.

He got out of the car and went into the store.

The dazzling array of cakes in the glass display case exuded an enticing sweet aroma.

His gaze swept over the ornately decorated, heavily frosted designs.

It eventually stopped in a corner.

It was a very small round cake.

The entire piece is covered in a delicate, pale pink cream, garnished with a few fresh blueberries and raspberries. Most importantly—the small label next to it clearly states:

Sugar-free frosting, low-fat chiffon cake, decorated with fresh fruit.

It perfectly meets the requirements of a model who is extremely strict about controlling calories and sugar intake.

"Please pack this up."

……

I carried the delicate little box back to the car.

Jin Dayuan glanced at it sideways, a knowing smile playing on his lips, and twirled the toothpick halfway through his mouth.

The car headed towards the direction of the Holy Water Cave.

Kang Jae-hoon looked at the flowing light and shadow outside the window.

Tonight at 8 PM.

It was the premiere of the drama "Queen's Flower" starring Lee Sung-kyung.

This small, sugar-free fruit cake in her hand is a way of celebrating her first truly significant role in her acting career.

……

When Kang Jae-hoon opened the door carrying that small, exquisite cake.

The bright lights of the living room and the clamor of television commercials poured out at once.

Lee Sung-kyung sat cross-legged in the center of the sofa.

They are obviously waiting for the premiere of "Queen's Flower".

They were also waiting for Kang Jae-hoon.

Kang Jae-hoon naturally bent down to change his shoes.

however.

Just as he kicked off his sneaker with his left foot, leaving the shoe lying askew on the entryway floor—

The gaze from the sofa snapped onto him like a searchlight!

Lee Sung-kyung's gaze followed the unsightly shoe.

Slowly move upwards.

Ultimately, it was firmly fixed on Kang Jae-hoon's face.

The dissatisfaction in his eyes almost pierced through him.

Jiang Zai Xun's lips curved slightly, and he obediently took half a step back.

Pick up the shoe that was being rejected.

It was neatly placed next to the shoe cabinet, side by side with another shoe.

Do it all.

He then straightened up.

Carrying a cake box.

He walked into the living room as if nothing had happened.

Lee Sung-kyung's gaze followed his movements, finally shifting from the "source of pollution" in the entryway to the cake box in his hand. The box had a simple design, but exuded the exquisite feel unique to high-end dessert shops.

Just a second before her habitual, slightly critical words like "Who told you to waste money?" or "I don't eat sweets" were about to slip out—

Kang Jae-hoon had already placed the box steadily in front of her within easy reach.

"Celebrating the premiere of your first leading role in a TV series tonight."

There was no artificially heightened excitement.

There were no exaggerated congratulatory words.

It simply stated clearly what it meant to her.

This marks a significant step forward in her career. "Low-sugar."

He added three more words.

It's like prescribing the right medicine for the right ailment.

This silenced any questions she might have raised regarding calories and sugar content.

Lee Sung-kyung's gaze swept back and forth between the small cake box and the calm expression on his face.

Lips move slightly.

finally.

She swallowed back the words that were already on the tip of her tongue.

She quietly loosened her legs, which were crossed over her shoulders.

Move your body to the other side of the sofa to create a spacious enough space.

The cake box was opened.

The pale pink, low-sugar chiffon cake looked fresh and inviting under the soft lighting of the living room. A few plump blueberries and raspberries were sprinkled on top, like fruits glistening with morning dew.

Lee Sung-kyung picked up the small fork next to her.

Carefully fork up a small piece of cake from the edge and put it in your mouth.

Chew slowly.

The usual pickiness between his brows was replaced by a focused appreciation.

Kang Jae-hoon didn't disturb her.

She turned around and went into her room to change into soft loungewear.

When you come out again.

The long commercial on TV had just ended.

The opening theme song of "Queen's Flower" begins with a lively rhythm unique to urban dramas.

A small piece of the cake in front of Lee Sung-kyung had been eaten.

She remained seated cross-legged.

But their eyes were already fixed on the screen.

Kang Jae-hoon sat down in the seat reserved for him next to her.

The sofa sagged slightly.

He picked up the remote and turned the volume up a little.

The opening sequence changes.

The camera rapidly interweaves scenes of clinking glasses in a top-tier banquet hall in South Korea with the damp, smoky alleyways of a night market in Kaohsiung, Taiwan.

Lena Jung, a glamorous but fraught chaebol wife.

Kang Yi-seul (Lee Sung-kyung), dressed in a cheap T-shirt, is working hard in the kitchen of a night market food stall, scrubbing mountains of greasy dishes, her forehead soaked with sweat.

Two worlds.

It is juxtaposed using montage techniques.

It's incredibly impactful.

What's the first episode about?

Looking at the screen, Kang Jae-hoon asked casually.

"See for yourself."

"Oh."

Jiang Zai Xun responded and didn't ask any more questions.

The only sound in the living room was the television.

Lee Sung-kyung watched intently, but occasionally frowned, as if scrutinizing the details of her own expression or movement.

Kang Jae-hoon sat quietly to the side.

As a mere spectator, I felt the tension brought about by the unfolding plot.

As the mournful end credits rolled, a subtle silence fell over the living room.

The screen freezes on the girl's bewildered gaze as she looks at the endless night sky.

"The acting was good, especially the look in his eyes during the dishwashing scene. He captured the weariness, resentment, and numb resilience very well."

There were no exaggerated praises.

Only observations and recognition based on a professional perspective are valid.

Lee Sung-kyung didn't look at him.

He simply picked up his fork, poked a small piece of cake, and stuffed it into his mouth.

Chew slowly and carefully.

Several seconds passed.

He then gave a muffled, slightly nasal hum:
"You don't have to say it."

Kang Jae-hoon was used to her reaction. He picked up a water glass from the coffee table and took a sip.

When setting down the cup, lift it up as if casually:

Do you know about the Ice Bucket Challenge?

Lee Sung-kyung swallowed the cake and said:
"Yeah. That thing's really popular lately. What's up?"

"I helped the teacher with this today. After he finished the challenge, he called on three people to take over."

"Oh."

Lee Sung-kyung responded with a lack of interest.

"He called your name as the last one."

"..."

Lee Sung-kyung's fingers, which were holding a fork, paused.

She turned her head.

His gaze was fixed on Kang Jae-hoon.

A clear look of surprise flashed in her beautiful eyes, which was then replaced by a deeper sense of skepticism, as if asking, "Are you kidding me?"

Kang Jae-hoon met her gaze, his face devoid of any hint of jest:
"I'll record a video for you."

Lee Sung-kyung seemed to be burned by those words, and suddenly came to her senses:
"Now?"

"Otherwise what? Those who are named need to participate and upload the video within 24 hours, otherwise they will face severe public backlash."

"..."

Lee Sung-kyung's eyebrows furrowed instantly, and she grabbed a handful of hair in frustration.

of course.

She wasn't annoyed by being singled out by Hwang Jung-min. Although the whole thing was absurd and ridiculous, upon closer inspection, her teacher's wife, Kim Mi-hye, genuinely liked her.

She had accompanied Kang Jae-hoon on two previous New Year's visits. His wife had chatted with her about fashion, skincare, and gossip from the chaebol circles, even more enthusiastically than her apprentice Kang Jae-hoon.

What annoyed her was the thought of being thoroughly doused in front of Kang Jae-hoon!
Although she has almost extreme confidence in her body, which she has sculpted by spending time in the gym.

but……

A soaked sports bra clings to the body's curves...

Was he watching the entire recording with those damned, professional actor eyes that now held a scrutinizing gaze?
This is completely different from lifting weights at the gym or wearing shorts at home!

...Just imagining that scene makes an indescribable heat spread from the roots of my ears.

shy?

It was inevitable.

But to refuse?
There is no reason.

Set up your own phone?
The results were absolutely terrible; the angle and stability were both difficult to guarantee.

Looking for an assistant or agent?

People are not in front of you, and the efficiency is low.

拖？
If there's no response by the deadline, it's likely to be flagged as "acting like a big shot," "disrespectful to seniors," and "lacking any sense of charity" in trending posts.

Lee Sung-kyung isn't that stupid.

Most importantly—

Being nominated by an award-winning actor of Hwang Jung-min's caliber is a tremendous recognition and exposure that many people crave.

If you delay because of personal hesitation, or handle things unprofessionally or in a poor manner, that would be truly impolite and disrespectful to your seniors, and a waste of a good opportunity.

The pros and cons clashed in my mind in a flash.

A few seconds later.

Lee Sung-kyung suddenly jumped up from the sofa:

"Wait!"

Then, without looking back, he quickly rushed into his bedroom.

"Bang" sound.

The door is closed.

This blocked the living room lights and Kang Jae-hoon's view.

Kang Jae-hoon was not surprised by her reaction.

He got up and walked towards the kitchen.

Open the freezer compartment of the refrigerator.

Sure enough, there was a whole box of ice cube trays inside.

He deftly poured all the ice into a moderately sized plastic bucket with thick rims.

Then turn on the tap.

slam-la-

Cold water was poured into the bucket.

I reached out and tested the water temperature.

The biting coldness emanating from his fingertips made him frown slightly.

His gaze swept around the kitchen.

It landed on the kettle.

He picked up the kettle and added about half a kettle of warm water to the bucket.

The adjustment range of water temperature is very subtle.

It ensures that the impact is powerful enough to create a visually striking effect, while also preventing the person being doused from suffering extreme physical discomfort from the cold.

He reached out again to test the water temperature.

Ok.

It remains cold.

However, the extreme thrill of being able to freeze your breath instantly has been weakened.

Just right.

At this time.

The bedroom door opened.

Lee Sung-kyung came out.

She changed out of her soft loungewear.

The top is a fluorescent green sports vest that perfectly outlines the tight and smooth lines of the shoulders, back, waist, and abdomen, with not a single piece of excess fabric that would be see-through.

She was wearing black yoga pants.

This outfit minimizes the embarrassment of getting wet.

At the same time, to the greatest extent possible...

It showcased the physique she was so proud of, sculpted through years of self-discipline.

Her face was expressionless.

But the slight redness on her ears betrayed her inner unease.

Kang Jae-hoon's gaze lingered on her for less than half a second.

Once the equipment is confirmed to be up to standard, it is moved away.

Where to film?

Lee Sung-kyung caught the fleeting glimpse of his gaze and forcefully trampled away her shame.

"bathroom."

The bathroom is not very big.

But its advantage lies in its fast drainage, easy cleaning, and convenient hot shower after Lee Sung-kyung finishes.

Kang Jae-hoon adjusted the shooting angle to ensure he could capture her upper body and the moment the icy water hit her, then looked past the phone at Lee Sung-kyung:

"Ok?"

"Ah."

"Ready, 1, 2, 3—"

Kang Jae-hoon clapped his hands, mimicking the sound of a clapperboard.

It's not that he has an occupational disease.

It is mainly to make things easier for Lee Sung-kyung's team when editing and adding subtitles in post-production.

The applause fell.

Lee Sung-kyung had forcibly switched the expression on her face to a sweet smile:
"Hello everyone, I'm Lee Sung-kyung. It's an honor to accept Hwang Jung-min's nomination to continue the Ice Bucket Challenge! Patients with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) need more attention and support. My resources are limited, but I hope this small gesture can help them a little. I will also donate to relevant organizations to spread this love. So, let's begin!"

After speaking, he bowed to the camera again.

at that time.

Kang Jae-hoon had already positioned himself to the side and behind Lee Sung-kyung, ensuring he wouldn't be in the shot while also making it easier to operate the camera.

“Crash——!!!”

The icy water, mixed with not-yet-completely-melted ice, instantly pierced through the scalp, soaked the neck, and seeped into the edges of the sports bra like a mini waterfall!

The massive cold wave struck Lee Sung-kyung's body and will like a heavy hammer.

Her body trembled violently, like a leaf turning in the wind.

He instinctively hugged his arms tightly to his chest.

Those few seconds felt like an eternity.

As the last few ice floes hit her shoulders and rolled away, Lee Sung-kyung trembled uncontrollably, her face streaked with what looked like water droplets or frozen tears.

Kang Jae-hoon had put down the empty bucket and walked back behind his phone.

"Whoosh..."

Lee Sung-kyung, panting heavily, smoothed her hair back and looked at the camera, saying:

"...It's...done!"

"Roll call... Lee Jong-suk, Lee Kwang-soo... and... our 'Queen's Flower' cast member Go Woo-ri, keep going! Fighting!"

She quickly bent down to complete her final bow.

"Click."

Kang Jae-hoon pressed the stop button.

Recording has ended.

In an instant, only Lee Sung-kyung's rapid breathing and the crisp sound of water droplets hitting the floor tiles filled the bathroom.

Before she could even ask for a towel...

Jiang Zai Xun had already pulled a thick, colored bath towel from the shelf next to him, and with a wave of his arm, wrapped it around her head and face.

The large bath towel instantly blocked out the cold air in the bathroom.

It also shielded her from her slightly disheveled appearance at that moment.

Kang Jae-hoon's palm landed through the thick towel.

It wasn't exactly gentle; it was even a bit clumsy and awkward—large, dry hands wrapped in a towel repeatedly scraped and pressed against her head, the back of her neck, and her damp hair.

Lee Sung-kyung could sense almost no hesitation or "purposefulness" in Kang Jae-hoon's actions—he was simply drying his hair properly.

This purely functional action, aimed at eliminating physical discomfort, instantly stopped her from uttering the habitual "Ouch! Be gentle!" or "I can do it myself!" that was about to spill from her throat.

Is it awkward?
Is it awkward?
Can't tell.

She lowered her eyes, tiny water droplets still clinging to her long eyelashes, her gaze fixed on her bare toes.

however.

Kang Jae-hoon seemed completely unaware of her inner thoughts.

Or.

He selectively became insensitive.

"okay."

Not long after.

Lee Sung-kyung finally couldn't hold it in any longer:
"I will do it myself."

She raised her hand and pressed down on Kang Jae-hoon's wrist, which was still moving.

"Ah."

Kang Jae-hoon readily released her hand, returning complete control of the towel to her.

"Take a hot shower."

He stepped back and casually picked up the empty ice bucket.

"Close the door."

Her muffled voice came from under the towel, sounding like a command, yet also carrying a hint of haste, as if she wanted to cut something off.

Kang Jae-hoon didn't stop walking.

He closed the frosted glass door behind him.

The door hinges emitted a soft, continuous creaking sound, gradually fading until a final, muffled click shut out the sound of water and that indescribable dampness.

Lee Sung-kyung stood still.

She could still feel a lingering pressure on the top of her head and neck.

Raise your hand.

I'm not going to turn on the hot water switch.

Instead, she rubbed the back of her neck, which had been repeatedly scraped through the fabric, with some force.

The skin there seemed a little hotter than elsewhere.

I can't tell if it's frozen or something else.

(End of this chapter)