Annoying Anya

Alexeier grabs Kenji’s wrist, eyes sharp. "We need to move. Now."

Kenji doesn’t argue. His body is already reminding him of its limits—the dull ache in his ribs, the lingering sting from his past wounds. He pushes through it.

The estate’s alarms blare. Footsteps echo from the corridors. More guards are coming.

Alexeier takes the lead, clearing their path with precise gunfire. Kenji follows, his blade still slick with blood, his mind sharp despite the exhaustion threatening to creep in.

They sprint through the halls, dodging bullets, cutting down anyone who gets too close. Every step burns, but Kenji grits his teeth. He refuses to fall here.

The exit is in sight.

Alexeier takes out the last two guards at the doorway, then turns to Kenji. "Jump."

Kenji doesn’t hesitate. He leaps over the balcony railing, landing hard but rolling to absorb the impact. Alexeier follows, and within seconds, they’re in the getaway car, speeding off before the estate erupts into chaos.

Kenji leans back against the seat, catching his breath. His body feels like it's on fire, but he doesn’t care.

One name has been crossed off the list.

Alexeier glances at him. "You good?"

Kenji exhales, staring out the window. "Not yet."

But soon.

As the city lights blur past them, he already knows their next move.

As they sprint toward the escape vehicle, Kenji’s stomach churns violently. The rush of adrenaline is wearing off, and the weight of his injuries crashes down on him. His vision wavers for a second, nausea rolling through him like a wave.

Alexeier feels the slight stumble and tightens his grip on Kenji’s wrist, practically dragging him the last few steps.

"Don’t you dare pass out now," Alexeier mutters, shoving the car door open and forcing Kenji inside.

Kenji barely has time to settle into the seat before the car speeds off, tires screeching against the pavement. He leans back, breathing through the sickness clawing at his gut. His fingers curl into fists, his body trembling from the overload.

Alexeier watches him from the driver’s seat, concern flashing in his eyes.

"Breathe, Kenji." His voice is firm, but there’s something softer beneath it.

Kenji closes his eyes, forcing himself to swallow the nausea. His body is screaming for rest, but his mind won’t let him. Not yet.

"We made it," Alexeier continues. "Now stop pushing yourself past your damn limits."

Kenji exhales sharply, cracking one eye open. "Tch… didn’t know you cared."

Alexeier scoffs but doesn’t argue.

As the city lights blur past them, Kenji knows the fight isn’t over. His body is wrecked, but his mind is still set on revenge.

He just needs to recover first.

The car ride is tense, but Kenji barely registers it. His body is shutting down, exhaustion winning over his stubbornness.

By the time they reach their condo, Raven is already waiting. Her sharp eyes scan Kenji’s state, and she clicks her tongue in disapproval.

"You look like hell."

Kenji smirks weakly. "Feel like it too."

Raven sighs. "That’s why I’m sending you away."

Kenji blinks. "What?"

"A private island resort. You need rest. No missions, no fights. Just recover."

Kenji frowns, about to argue, but Alexeier steps in. "She’s right. You won’t last like this."

Kenji exhales sharply. He hates it. Hates feeling weak. But… even he knows he won’t be useful in this state.

"Fine," he mutters.

Raven smirks. "Good. Your flight’s tomorrow. Try not to kill anyone while you’re there."

Kenji rolls his eyes, but deep down, he wonders—will he even know how to rest?

Kenji glares at Raven, too tired to come up with a sharp response. Alexeier, on the other hand, scoffs, crossing his arms.

"Tch. As if I have time for that."

Raven smirks knowingly. "Oh? So you are devoted to each other, then?"

Kenji exhales, rubbing his temples. "Can you not?"

Raven chuckles, clearly enjoying herself. "I’m just saying, a resort island, the two of you alone… If you’re not hunting for fun, maybe you should figure out what you are doing."

Alexeier clicks his tongue, avoiding Kenji’s gaze. "Whatever. Let’s just get this over with."

Kenji stays silent, looking away as well. He won’t admit it, but Raven’s words linger in his mind longer than he’d like.

A Temporary Escape

The waves crash gently against the shore, the salty breeze filling the air. The island is beautiful—too peaceful, too soft for someone like Kenji.

As he steps onto the wooden dock, the sun glows warm against his skin, but his body still feels heavy. His wounds have started to heal, but the weight of everything remains.

"Tch. This feels wrong," Kenji mutters, adjusting his glasses.

"That’s because you’re not used to relaxing," Alexeier replies, walking beside him. He carries their bags effortlessly, his dark hair slightly tousled by the wind.

Kenji scoffs. "And you are?"

Alexeier smirks. "Not really. But Raven forced us here, so we might as well try."

The resort staff leads them to their private villa—a luxurious, open-style place with a direct view of the ocean. There’s even a private pool, though Kenji doubts he’ll use it.

Kenji sighs, stepping inside. "What the hell are we even supposed to do here?"

Alexeier tosses their bags onto the couch. "I don’t know. Maybe listen to Raven for once and actually rest?"

Kenji clicks his tongue. "Sounds boring."

Alexeier watches him for a moment before walking over, grabbing Kenji’s wrist. His touch is firm but not forceful.

"Then let’s make a deal." His voice is low, serious. "You try to rest. And if you still feel like shit, I’ll spar with you later. Fair?"

Kenji narrows his eyes. He hates being told what to do. But… there’s something in Alexeier’s gaze that makes him pause.

"Fine," he mutters. "But don’t think I’ll go easy on you later."

Alexeier smirks. "Wouldn’t expect you to, Senpai."

Kenji exhales, stepping toward the balcony. The sea stretches endlessly before him, the horizon blending into the sky.

For the first time in a long while, there are no gunshots, no screams, no pain.

Just silence.

And maybe, just maybe, that’s not so bad.

A Moment of Stillness

Later that evening, the sun dips into the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and violet. The air is warm but soothing, the distant crash of waves the only sound filling the quiet between them.

Kenji sits on the villa’s wooden deck, a glass of whiskey in hand. He isn’t drinking much—just enough to feel the burn, to remind himself that he’s still here. His wounds still ache, but for once, there’s no immediate danger, no enemies lurking in the shadows.

"You’re spacing out again," Alexeier’s voice comes from behind him.

Kenji doesn’t turn. "Tch. Can’t a guy enjoy the silence?"

Alexeier steps beside him, holding a cold bottle of beer. He takes a slow sip before sitting down, closer than usual.

"You call this enjoying? You look like you’re about to start a fight with the ocean."

Kenji scoffs, but a small smirk tugs at his lips. "Maybe I am."

A comfortable silence settles between them. It’s different from the usual tense ones they share—this one feels… lighter.

After a while, Alexeier speaks, his tone unusually soft. "You don’t have to keep pretending, you know."

Kenji exhales, swirling the liquid in his glass. He knows what Alexeier means.

"I don’t know how to stop," he admits, barely above a whisper.

Alexeier watches him, something unreadable in his gaze. Then, without a word, he reaches over and adjusts Kenji’s glasses, his fingers grazing against Kenji’s cheek.

Kenji stiffens slightly, but he doesn’t pull away.

"Then let me remind you," Alexeier says.

And before Kenji can react, Alexeier leans in and presses a slow, deliberate kiss against the corner of his lips. Not rough, not rushed—just enough to make Kenji’s breath hitch.

When Alexeier pulls back, there’s a faint smirk on his lips, but his eyes hold something deeper.

"See? The world didn’t end."

Kenji blinks, still processing what just happened. His heart pounds—not from fear, not from pain, but from something else entirely.

Then, despite himself, he chuckles. "Cocky bastard."

Alexeier grins. "You love it."

Kenji doesn’t respond, but he doesn’t deny it either.

For the first time in a long time, the weight on his chest feels just a little lighter.

Kenji blinks, then lets out an amused scoff. "Model? You? Well, that explains the attitude."

Alexeier glares at him. "Tch. Shut up."

Kenji leans back, resting his arm on the deck railing. "Nah, nah, this is interesting. So you were one of those campus heartthrobs, huh? Walking around all brooding and untouchable while girls (and probably some guys) threw themselves at you?"

Alexeier clicks his tongue. "It wasn’t like that."

Kenji raises an eyebrow. "Oh? So what was it like?"

Alexeier sighs, taking another sip of his beer. "I was just doing it for extra credits. My sister thought it would be good exposure, and I didn’t really care. Besides, I was too busy training under my father to actually enjoy any of that attention."

Kenji hums, staring at Alexeier with a smirk. "Huh. And here I thought you’d be the type to have a high school sweetheart or something. Guess I really am your first."

Alexeier stiffens for a moment before scoffing. "Shut up, Senpai." His voice is firm, but there’s a hint of redness on his ears.

Kenji laughs. "Damn, that reaction was worth it."

Alexeier glares at him, but Kenji only smirks wider. He takes a slow sip of his drink, eyes twinkling with mischief.

"So, Mr. Campus Model, what else did you do in college? Any other surprises? Maybe a secret acting career?"

Alexeier rolls his eyes. "No. Just studies, training, and occasionally kicking some idiot’s ass when necessary."

Kenji grins. "Now that, I believe."

A comfortable silence settles between them again. The playful teasing fades, leaving something quieter, something warmer.

Kenji gazes at the waves, then at Alexeier. "You really did have a different life than mine." His voice is softer now, lacking its usual sarcasm.

Alexeier meets his gaze. "Yeah. But I’m here now. And so are you."

Kenji holds his stare for a moment before exhaling, a small smirk still lingering on his lips.

"Yeah. Guess we both ended up here, huh?"

Alexeier simply nods, and for once, no words are needed.

Kenji and Alexeier strolled along the beach, their feet sinking into the soft white sand. The salty breeze played with Kenji’s tousled hair, while Alexeier casually rolled up the sleeves of his shirt. The resort was lively—couples walking hand in hand, families laughing, and tourists soaking in the sun.

Kenji sighed, shoving his hands into his pockets. "Man, I forgot places like this existed. Feels like a whole different world."

Alexeier smirked. "Yeah? You sure you’re not about to start a fight with the happy couples too?"

Kenji shot him a glare. "Tch. Don’t tempt me."

As they continued walking, they spotted a cozy bar cottage by the water, dimly lit with lanterns and decorated with wooden accents. The place had a relaxed, tropical vibe—warm light spilling onto the sand, the sound of clinking glasses mixing with mellow music.

"Let’s grab a drink," Alexeier suggested, already making his way toward the bar.

Kenji hesitated for a second before following. He wasn’t sure if he was in the mood for drinking, but something about the atmosphere made him feel at ease—something rare.

They took a seat at the bar, the bartender greeting them with a nod.

"What’ll it be?" the bartender asked.

Alexeier leaned forward slightly. "Whiskey, neat."

Kenji arched an eyebrow. "Look at you, drinking like an old man."

Alexeier shot him a smirk. "Says the guy who drinks the same thing."

Kenji clicked his tongue but didn’t argue. "Same for me."

As the bartender prepared their drinks, Kenji’s gaze drifted around the bar. There were different types of people—honeymooners, groups of friends, and even some solo travelers. For a moment, he almost felt like a normal person on vacation. Almost.

Then his eyes landed on a couple at the far end of the bar. The woman leaned into her partner’s shoulder, laughing at something he whispered. It was such a simple moment, yet something about it made Kenji’s chest tighten.

Alexeier noticed. "Kenji."

Kenji snapped out of it, shaking his head. "Nothing. Just people-watching."

Alexeier studied him for a moment before sipping his drink. "You ever think about that?"

Kenji raised an eyebrow. "About what?"

"A normal life. A future that’s… different from what we do." Alexeier’s voice was calm, but there was something thoughtful behind it.

Kenji chuckled dryly. "A future, huh? Not really my thing." He took a sip of his drink, letting the burn settle in his throat. "You?"

Alexeier was silent for a moment, swirling the amber liquid in his glass. "I don’t know. Maybe I did, once."

Kenji smirked. "Let me guess. With your best friend, Seth?"

Alexeier’s expression didn’t change, but Kenji caught the slight clench of his jaw. "It’s in the past."

Kenji tilted his head, watching him. "So, no thoughts about settling down? Not even with someone who annoys the hell out of you on a daily basis?"

Alexeier turned to him then, his blue eyes steady. "Depends. Would you be willing to annoy me for the rest of our lives?"

Kenji blinked. For a split second, he wasn’t sure if Alexeier was messing with him or being serious. The realization made his heart do something weird—something he wasn’t ready to name.

Instead of answering, he scoffed and knocked back his drink. "Tch. You really are getting cocky, huh?"

Alexeier only smirked, finishing his own drink.

"Just saying, Senpai. The future’s not as far away as you think."

Kenji didn’t respond, but as they sat there, listening to the waves and the quiet hum of music, something in his chest felt a little less heavy.

Alexeier barely had time to react before the woman’s eyes widened in shock.

"Alexeier Del Tiero?" she repeated, as if making sure she wasn’t seeing things.

Kenji, who had just taken a sip of his whiskey, glanced between them with mild curiosity. He arched an eyebrow and leaned slightly toward Alexeier. "You know her?"

Alexeier set down his glass and turned to face the woman fully. His expression remained unreadable, but there was a flicker of recognition in his eyes.

"It's been a long time," the woman said, her voice carrying something between disbelief and excitement. She looked around, as if making sure she wasn’t hallucinating. "You’re really here?"

Kenji tilted his head, smirking. "Damn, Alex. I didn't know you were famous with the ladies."

Alexeier exhaled through his nose, clearly unimpressed by Kenji’s teasing. He turned his attention back to the woman. "You have me at a disadvantage. You are…?"

The woman placed a hand on her hip, half-smiling. "Come on. I know it’s been years, but I wasn’t that forgettable, was I?"

Alexeier studied her face for a moment, his brows slightly furrowing as he searched his memory. Then, a realization flickered in his gaze. "Anya?"

She grinned. "There it is. I was starting to think you really wiped out your whole past."

Kenji, still sipping his whiskey, watched the exchange with mild amusement. "So, who is she? Ex-girlfriend? Childhood friend? Stalker?"

Anya rolled her eyes but laughed. "None of the above. Though, back in university, people liked to think we were a thing."

Kenji hummed. "Oh? So, you were one of his admirers, huh?"

Anya gave Kenji a look before turning back to Alexeier. "I knew you’d disappear after graduation, but damn, you really dropped off the face of the earth. Where have you been all these years?"

Alexeier’s expression remained neutral, but Kenji could tell he wasn’t exactly thrilled about this conversation. "I’ve been busy."

Anya scoffed. "Clearly. And here I thought you’d be walking runways by now, not drinking in some resort bar."

Kenji chuckled, swirling his drink. "Wait. Runways? Don't tell me—pretty boy here used to be a model?"

Anya blinked before smirking. "He didn't tell you? Alexeier was the face of our university’s fashion scene. Magazines, student campaigns, even some major brands scouted him. Everyone thought he’d go pro."

Kenji turned to Alexeier with mock betrayal. "You kept this from me? Damn, and here I was thinking you were just some rich heir with a dark past."

Alexeier sighed, rubbing his temple. "It wasn’t a big deal."

Anya laughed. "Not a big deal? Please. Half the campus had posters of you in their dorms. You were practically a celebrity."

Kenji smirked. "So, what made you quit, Alex? Didn’t like all the attention?"

Alexeier took a slow sip of his drink before answering, his tone unreadable. "I had other priorities."

Anya studied him for a moment before nodding. "Yeah. I figured. You always had that ‘lone wolf’ energy." She then turned to Kenji, as if finally acknowledging his presence properly. "And you are…?"

Kenji gave a lazy smirk. "Just someone who keeps him from getting himself killed."

Anya arched a brow. "So, you’re the reason he’s still breathing? Impressive."

Kenji shrugged. "More like a full-time job."

Anya chuckled but didn’t pry. Instead, she leaned against the bar and sighed. "It’s good seeing you, Alex. Even if it’s completely out of nowhere. We should catch up properly sometime."

Alexeier gave a small nod but didn’t make any promises. "Maybe."

Kenji watched the exchange with interest. Something about Alexeier’s past was always intriguing—especially the parts he rarely talked about.

As Anya finished her drink and got up to leave, she gave Alexeier one last glance. "Take care of yourself, okay?" Then, with a small wave, she disappeared into the crowd.

Kenji smirked, nudging Alexeier. "So, Mr. Former Campus Heartthrob, anything else you wanna confess?"

Alexeier sighed. "Drop it, Kenji."

Kenji chuckled, taking another sip of his whiskey. "Yeah, yeah. But I gotta say, seeing you flustered is pretty damn entertaining."

Alexeier shot him a glare, but Kenji just smirked, enjoying every second of it.

Anya's gaze shifted from Alexeier to Kenji, her eyes narrowing slightly with intrigue. A slow grin spread across her lips as she leaned in slightly, as if sizing him up.

"So… you’re the one keeping Alexeier on his toes now?" she mused, swirling the drink in her glass.

Kenji arched an eyebrow, a smirk playing at his lips. "Something like that. Though, I prefer to think of it as keeping him alive."

Anya chuckled, tilting her head. "You know, I’ve seen a lot of people try to get close to him. He was always this untouchable, brooding mystery. But you… you’re different."

Kenji rested his chin on his hand, amused. "Oh? And what makes you say that?"

Anya took a sip of her drink before setting it down. "Because he actually lets you talk to him like that. Hell, he actually reacts to you. That’s rare."

Kenji side-eyed Alexeier, who was clearly trying to ignore the conversation, focusing on his drink instead. Smirking, Kenji turned back to Anya. "Well, what can I say? I’ve got a way with difficult people."

Anya laughed, shaking her head. "I like you. You’re not afraid of him. That’s new."

Kenji leaned back, giving her a lazy grin. "Trust me, sweetheart, I’ve seen Alexeier at his worst. I’d say I earned the right."

Alexeier finally sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Are you two done?"

Anya shot him a playful look. "Relax, Alex. I’m just saying—it’s nice to see you with someone who actually gets you. Not just another fan hoping to be your next obsession."

Kenji glanced at Alexeier, curious to see his reaction. But as expected, Alexeier remained cool and unreadable.

Anya smirked. "Anyway, I’ll leave you two to it. But Kenji? Keep shaking him up. It’s good for him."

Kenji chuckled. "Oh, don’t worry. I plan to."

As Anya walked off, Kenji turned to Alexeier with a teasing grin. "Well, that was fun. Didn’t know you had such interesting admirers back in the day."

Alexeier shot him a glare. "Drop it, Kenji."

Kenji just laughed, taking another sip of his whiskey. "Yeah, yeah. But seriously, Alex—what did you do to make girls like her so interested in you?"

Alexeier sighed. "I existed."

Kenji burst into laughter, shaking his head. "Damn. Must be nice."

Kenji ended the call, his smirk fading as he slid his phone back into his pocket.

"Looks like our vacation just got cut short," he muttered, glancing at Alexeier.

Alexeier raised an eyebrow, swirling the ice in his glass before setting it down. "What now?"

Kenji stood, stretching lazily before cracking his knuckles. "Raven didn’t say much, but something’s coming. And knowing her, it’s not just some casual update."

Alexeier sighed, finishing his drink in one go before standing as well. "Guess that means we should get back before things get messy."

As they left the bar, Kenji couldn’t shake the feeling that this ‘excitement’ Raven mentioned wasn’t something they’d enjoy.

Kenji leaned forward, eyes narrowing as Raven’s voice came through the laptop speakers.

"Listen, our target is actually there too. A client provided intel—tomorrow, there’s a cruise ship event. High-profile guests, black-market deals happening behind the scenes. And guess what? Your guy is on the guest list."

Alexeier crossed his arms, standing behind Kenji. "Let me guess, you want us to crash the party?"

Raven smirked on the screen. "Not just crash it, darling—infiltrate it. Blend in, get close, and gather intel before making a move. This isn’t a reckless job; timing is everything."

Kenji exhaled, already calculating their approach. "So, what’s the cover?"

Raven leaned back, amused. "The usual—VIP guests. I pulled some strings. You two will be attending as a couple of rich heirs with too much money and too little sense."

Kenji scoffed. "Rich heirs, huh? I guess that means I get to wear something expensive."

Alexeier smirked. "Try not to look too uncomfortable in it, Kenji."

Raven chuckled. "Pack your suits, boys. Tomorrow, you’re setting sail."

The call ended, and Kenji shut the laptop, looking at Alexeier.

"Well," he said, stretching his arms behind his head, "looks like our vacation just turned into another mission."

Alexeier smirked. "Did you really think we’d get a break?"

Kenji sighed, standing up. "Yeah, yeah. Let’s get ready."

Kenji’s chuckle faded as a strange weight settled in his chest. His body was always ready for action, trained to move without hesitation—but in moments like these, when things were quiet, his mind had too much space to wander.

Alexeier’s voice, his stories of normal life, felt like echoes from a world Kenji had never belonged to. College, friendships, harmless crushes—things he could only imagine. As Alexeier talked, Kenji found himself drifting, his thoughts slipping into the cracks of his past.

"If only my parents hadn’t abandoned me… If only I had a normal life… If only—"

The thoughts tightened around him like a noose. He could almost hear the distant sounds of his past—chains rattling, cruel laughter, the suffocating heat of that burning orphanage.

His fingers twitched. His breathing slowed. He didn’t even realize his body had gone rigid.

"Senpai."

Alexeier’s voice cut through the haze like a blade. Kenji blinked, his vision sharpening as he found Alexeier staring at him, eyes filled with quiet concern.

"You're spacing out again."

Kenji exhaled sharply, shaking his head. "Tch. Annoying brat."

But Alexeier didn’t look away. His gaze was steady, unwavering. Kenji felt something settle inside him—something grounding.

"We leave tomorrow," Alexeier reminded him, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Focus, Kenji. Whatever's in your head—we'll deal with it when the time comes."

Kenji smirked, though it didn’t quite reach his eyes. "Look at you, giving me advice. You really have grown up, haven’t you?"

Alexeier smirked back. "Took me long enough."

Kenji sighed, running a hand through his hair. The mission was waiting. The past would have to stay buried—for now.

Alexeier didn’t let Kenji brush it off so easily. The moment Kenji tried to dismiss his own words, Alexeier grabbed his wrist, pulling him with enough force that he stumbled—right onto the bed.

Kenji let out a small grunt as he landed, caught off guard. Before he could protest, Alexeier hovered over him, his hands pressing into the mattress on either side of Kenji’s shoulders.

"Finish your sentence, Senpai," Alexeier murmured, his voice firm but low.

Kenji clicked his tongue, looking off to the side. "Tch. Forget it. It was a stupid thought."

Alexeier didn’t move. His gaze was intense, searching. "You were wondering if I would’ve chosen you over Seth, weren’t you?"

Kenji stiffened. Damn brat. He read him too well.

Silence stretched between them. Kenji's lips parted slightly, but no words came out. He wasn't sure what kind of answer he wanted to hear.

Alexeier exhaled, his voice softer this time. "If we had met back then, I don’t know what would’ve happened. But, Kenji—" he reached out, adjusting Kenji’s glasses slightly, his fingers lingering against his cheek "—I met you now. And that’s all that matters to me."

Kenji swallowed. The warmth of Alexeier’s touch sent an unfamiliar ache through him, something deeper than attraction—something he wasn’t sure how to name.

He smirked, trying to push past the tightness in his chest. "You really have a way of saying things, huh?"

Alexeier smirked back. "It’s because you never say what you really feel."

Kenji scoffed, grabbing Alexeier’s collar and flipping them over so he was on top. He leaned down, their faces close. "Careful, brat. You’re getting too good at reading me."

Alexeier just chuckled. "Someone has to."

Kenji stared at him for a moment longer before sighing, rolling off to the side. "Tch. Whatever. We have a mission tomorrow. Get some sleep."

Alexeier smiled to himself, closing his eyes. "Goodnight, Kenji."

Kenji lay awake for a while, staring at the ceiling. He never got his answer. But maybe, just maybe, he didn’t need one anymore.

The next evening, the grand cruise ship loomed before them, its golden lights shimmering over the dark ocean. The atmosphere buzzed with wealth and exclusivity—guests in elegant attire, the scent of expensive liquor in the air, and soft jazz playing from a live band.

Kenji adjusted his suit, the black fabric fitting him like a second skin. His brownish tousled hair was neatly styled, and his glasses sat perfectly on his face. He looked like any other high-class guest, blending effortlessly.

Alexeier, on the other hand, wore a crisp white suit with a deep blue shirt underneath. His dark hair, usually slightly messy, was slicked back for once, making him look strikingly sharp.

"Showtime," Alexeier muttered, adjusting his cufflinks.

Kenji smirked. "Don’t screw up, brat."

They stepped onto the cruise, each playing their role. Kenji moved through the crowd, scanning for their target—one of the key figures involved in illegal trafficking connected to the Korean mafia. Meanwhile, Alexeier played the social game, drawing attention with his charm, slipping into conversations to gather intel.

Then, amidst the glamorous guests, a familiar voice cut through the air.

"Alexeier Del Tiero?"

Alexeier turned—and froze.

There, in a form-fitting silver dress, stood a woman from his past. Her piercing eyes locked onto him with an expression of shock and something else—something unreadable.

Kenji, watching from a distance, narrowed his eyes. This wasn’t part of the plan.

Kenji adjusted his glasses, his jaw clenching as he watched Anya press herself against Alexeier. His patience was already running thin, and her shameless flirting only made it worse.

Alexeier, on the other hand, sighed inwardly. He had expected this. Back in college, Anya had always been persistent, hovering around him like an overexcited puppy. He had tolerated it back then, but now, it felt even more suffocating.

"Anya, I appreciate the compliment, but—"

"But what?" she pouted, tracing a finger along his sleeve. "Come on, don’t be so cold. We used to be close, remember? And now, look at you—stronger, more handsome… so irresistible."

Kenji’s fingers twitched at his side, his irritation bubbling over. He knew Alexeier could handle it, but something about watching this woman throw herself at him made his blood boil.

"Tch. If you're done drooling all over him, we have a party to enjoy," Kenji muttered, stepping between them. His tone was sharp, but his smirk was mocking.

Anya blinked at him before recognizing his presence fully. Her eyes lit up with curiosity. "Oh? And who’s this? Your bodyguard?"

Kenji let out a dry chuckle. "Something like that." His voice carried an edge.

Alexeier exhaled, rubbing his temples. "Anya, we’re here for business. Maybe another time, okay?"

Anya pouted again but finally took a step back, though her gaze lingered on Alexeier. "Fine, fine. But you owe me a dance later, handsome." She winked and sauntered away.

Kenji scoffed, crossing his arms. "What the hell was that?"

"That," Alexeier muttered, running a hand through his hair, "was a headache I hoped I'd never see again."

Kenji clicked his tongue, looking away. "Hmph. Annoying woman."

Alexeier smirked slightly. "Jealous?"

Kenji shot him a glare. "Tch. As if."

But deep inside, he hated the way she had touched Alexeier. Hated the way Alexeier had let her. Even if it was nothing… it still irritated him.

Kenji exhaled sharply, shaking off the irritation that still clung to him. This wasn’t the time to get distracted. The mission came first.

Alexeier noticed his tension but chose not to comment on it. Instead, he discreetly checked his concealed weapons while scanning the lavish cruise hall. Their target—a high-profile arms dealer connected to the Black Yakuza—was here somewhere, mingling among the wealthy guests.

Kenji adjusted his glasses, his sharp gaze landing on a group near the VIP section. His instincts told him their mark was among them. He nudged Alexeier subtly. "There. Dark suit, silver cufflinks. Matches Raven’s intel."

Alexeier hummed in agreement. "We get close, confirm his identity, and eliminate him quietly. No mess."

"Tch. Easier said than done." Kenji’s lips curled into a smirk.

As they moved through the crowd, Kenji was hyper-aware of his surroundings—and of Alexeier. Every time someone brushed against him, especially women drawn to his sharp features, Kenji felt his irritation spike. He clenched his fists in his pockets, forcing himself to stay focused.

They finally reached the bar near their target’s table. Kenji ordered a drink, playing it casual, while Alexeier subtly positioned himself closer to the mark.

But just as they were about to make their move, Anya returned—her hand suddenly grabbing onto Alexeier’s arm.

"Oh, Alexeier~ You didn’t forget about my dance, did you?" she purred.

Kenji’s eye twitched. Not now\, d**** it.

Kenji’s patience was wearing thin. Anya’s interruption wasn’t just annoying—it was interfering with their mission.

Alexeier tensed slightly at her grip but remained composed. "Anya, not now. I’m busy." His tone was firm, but the woman either didn’t catch the warning or didn’t care.

"Busy? Oh, come on, Alexeier! You used to be so fun back in college. Who's this—your bodyguard?" She side-eyed Kenji, her tone laced with amusement.

Kenji’s fingers twitched around his glass. This woman... He forced a smirk. "I don’t babysit. I clean up messes." His eyes darkened, the meaning behind his words clear.

Alexeier stepped back slightly, subtly shaking off Anya’s hold. "We really don’t have time for this." His gaze flickered toward their target, who was now rising from his seat—likely heading toward a more private area.

Kenji shot Anya a sharp glance. "Run along, princess. This isn’t your scene."

Anya huffed, clearly annoyed. "Tch, fine. But you owe me a dance later, Alexeier." She winked before finally stepping away.

Kenji rolled his eyes. "Finally. Let’s move before we lose him."

With Anya gone, they slipped through the crowd, their focus back on the mission.

With Anya finally out of the way, Kenji and Alexeier moved swiftly, blending into the crowd as they followed their target.

The arms dealer, oblivious to their presence, stepped through a restricted hallway guarded by two men in suits. Kenji’s sharp gaze took in their posture and weapon placements.

"How do you wanna do this?" Alexeier asked under his breath.

Kenji smirked. "Quiet or loud?"

Alexeier exhaled. "We’re on a damn cruise ship, Kenji."

"Fine. Quiet it is."

With precise timing, Kenji pretended to stumble, spilling his drink onto one of the guards. "Shit, my bad—"

As the guard turned in irritation, Alexeier struck, a swift jab to the throat, rendering him unconscious. Kenji caught the second guard before he could react, snapping his wrist and delivering a brutal strike to his temple.

The two men crumpled soundlessly.

Kenji smirked. "Smooth."

"Let’s go." Alexeier pushed open the door, and they disappeared into the restricted area, hunting their prey.

As they slipped further into the restricted area, Kenji’s earpiece crackled with Raven’s voice.

"Boys, remember—this needs to be clean. No unnecessary noise, no innocent casualties. We don’t need heat on us, understood?"

Alexeier adjusted his cufflinks, his voice calm. "Got it. We’re professionals, not butchers."

Kenji smirked but kept his eyes sharp on the path ahead. "Yeah, yeah, I know the drill. Just tell me when we’re free to eliminate the bastard."

"Patience, Kenji," Raven warned. "Get close, confirm the package, and then make the kill. No witnesses."

Kenji exhaled through his nose. He hated waiting, but he knew Raven was right. They had to be precise.

As they approached the private lounge where their target had entered, Kenji exchanged a glance with Alexeier. It was time to do this right—quick, silent, and clean.

Kenji and Alexeier moved with precision, slipping past security without drawing attention. They reached the VIP lounge, where their target was engaged in a quiet conversation with a foreign investor.

Alexeier scanned the room subtly. "Three guards. Two at the entrance, one near the bar."

Kenji adjusted his tie. "I'll handle the bar guy. You take the entrance when I give the signal."

With a nod, Alexeier casually made his way toward the lounge seating, pretending to check his watch. Kenji approached the bar, ordering a drink. As the bartender turned, Kenji smoothly leaned over and whispered, "Hey, your shoelace is untied."

The guard frowned, confused—just as Kenji’s fist connected with his jaw. He caught the unconscious man before he could hit the floor and slid him onto a chair, making it look like he had passed out drunk.

Alexeier, seeing the signal, moved swiftly. He approached the entrance guards, pretending to stumble slightly. "Damn, strong drinks here," he muttered.

As one guard reached out to steady him, Alexeier struck. A silent, swift takedown—one guard crumpled, the other barely had time to react before a precise chop to his throat left him gasping before he, too, fell unconscious.

Kenji smirked. "Show-off."

"Says the guy who pulled the shoelace trick," Alexeier shot back, straightening his suit.

With the path clear, they finally set their eyes on the target. It was time to finish this, clean and quiet—just as Raven ordered.

Kenji and Alexeier moved toward their target, who was seated comfortably on a plush leather couch, sipping from a glass of expensive whiskey. The man, a high-ranking figure in the underground arms trade, barely acknowledged them—until it was too late.

Kenji slid into the seat across from him, a smirk playing on his lips. "Quite the party you’re throwing."

The target blinked, setting his glass down. "And who might you be?"

Alexeier leaned against the armrest, his presence exuding quiet menace. "Someone here to deliver a message."

The man’s expression hardened, his hand subtly moving toward his pocket. Kenji was faster. In one smooth motion, he grasped the target’s wrist and twisted, forcing him to drop the concealed knife he had been reaching for.

"Tsk. Bad habit," Kenji muttered, pressing a silencer against the man's ribs. "Don’t make this difficult."

The target tensed, but before he could shout, Alexeier’s hand clamped over his mouth.

"Shhh. Let’s keep this clean," Alexeier whispered.

With practiced efficiency, Kenji pulled the trigger—one shot, straight to the heart. The man barely had time to struggle before his body slumped forward.

Alexeier wiped his hands on a napkin. "Too easy."

Kenji exhaled, pushing the body back against the couch to make it seem like he had simply dozed off. They stood up, adjusting their suits.

"Time to leave before someone notices," Kenji murmured.

But just as they turned toward the exit, the lounge door swung open—standing there was Anya, her eyes widening in shock as she took in the scene.

"What the hell—?" she gasped.

Kenji and Alexeier exchanged a look. This just got complicated.

Kenji reacted first, swiftly stepping toward Anya, who instinctively staggered back.

"Now, now, Anya," he said, his voice deceptively calm. "You didn’t see anything, did you?"

Anya’s wide eyes darted between them and the lifeless man on the couch. Her breath hitched, and she took another step back. "You—You just—"

Alexeier sighed, rubbing his temple. "Tch. Of all people, it had to be you."

Anya’s gaze snapped to him, hurt flickering in her expression. "Alexeier... What is this? What have you gotten yourself into?"

Kenji was already assessing the situation. Killing her would be easy—but that wasn’t part of the plan. Raven’s orders were clear: no innocent casualties. However, Anya was far from innocent if she started talking.

Kenji leaned closer, voice dropping to a whisper. "Listen, sweetheart, you have two choices. One, you walk away and forget this ever happened. Two..." He let the words hang, tilting his head. "Well, let’s not go there, yeah?"

Anya swallowed hard, her hands trembling. "I—"

Alexeier stepped in, his voice softer but firm. "Anya, don’t get involved in this. For your own sake."

She hesitated, her lips pressing into a thin line. "Are you... being forced into this?"

Kenji rolled his eyes. "This isn’t a damn soap opera. Choose, Anya."

A tense silence stretched between them before she finally exhaled shakily. "Fine. I didn’t see anything."

Kenji smiled, though it didn’t reach his eyes. "Good girl."

Alexeier watched her for a moment longer before motioning to Kenji. "Let’s go. We have what we came for."

As they exited, Kenji smirked. "Think she’ll keep her mouth shut?"

"She better," Alexeier muttered. But deep down, he wasn’t so sure.

Kenji’s eye twitched. "Tch. You’ve got to be kidding me."

Anya tilted her head, grinning as she stepped closer to Alexeier. "What? It’s just a little price to keep my mouth shut. One kiss, and I forget everything."

Alexeier stiffened, his gaze darkening. "Anya, don’t play games with me."

"Oh, but I’m serious, Alexeier. You wouldn’t want me to suddenly remember something, would you?" she teased, her fingers grazing his arm.

Kenji clenched his jaw. His patience was running thin, and the way she was pressing against Alexeier made his blood boil. "That’s enough."

Anya blinked at Kenji, feigning innocence. "Oh? Does this bother you, Kenji?"

Kenji’s lips curled into a smirk, but his eyes were cold. "You want a kiss so badly? How about I give you one—right before I put you to sleep permanently?"

Anya’s playful expression faltered slightly, but she held her ground. "Relax. It’s just a kiss."

Alexeier sighed heavily, his gaze flicking to Kenji. He could see the restrained irritation behind Kenji’s glasses. Turning back to Anya, he stepped closer, his voice dropping.

"You really think I’d let you blackmail me? Let’s get one thing straight, Anya—you don’t control me."

Kenji smirked at that, satisfaction flickering in his eyes.

Anya huffed, crossing her arms. "Ugh, fine. But you owe me one, Alexeier."

Kenji exhaled sharply. "Yeah, yeah. Let’s get out of here before I lose my last shred of patience."

As they walked away, Kenji muttered under his breath. "Unbelievable. What kind of women do you even attract, Alex?"

Alexeier sighed. "I ask myself the same thing sometimes."

Kenji froze. His fingers twitched, his jaw tightening as he watched Anya’s lips press onto Alexeier’s in a sudden, deep kiss. It was quick, but deliberate—provocative.

Alexeier’s eyes widened in shock, but before he could react, Anya pulled away with a smirk, her lips glistening. "That’s enough of a price for me." She winked before turning on her heel and disappearing into the crowd.

Kenji exhaled sharply through his nose, pushing his glasses up with an almost forced calmness. His fingers curled into a fist at his side, but he didn’t say a word.

Alexeier wiped his lips with the back of his hand, visibly irritated. "Tch. Annoying as ever."

Kenji’s voice was deceptively light, but there was an edge to it. "Didn’t know you were such a ladies’ man, Alex."

Alexeier turned to him, eyes narrowing slightly. "You’re pissed."

Kenji scoffed. "Me? Pissed? No, why would I be?" His smirk was sharp, but it didn’t reach his eyes. He turned away. "Let’s just get back to work. We have a mission, remember?"

Alexeier sighed, watching Kenji’s stiff posture as he walked ahead. "Senpai… you’re really bad at hiding it."

Kenji didn’t reply. But deep inside, something about that kiss left a bitter taste in his mouth.

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