After Jang Seokyun left, I stood motionless inside the laboratory.
Adjusting the frame of her glasses, Ham Jiwol sidled up beside me.
“Mr. Goyo….”
She gazed sorrowfully at the IV needle inserted into the back of my hand and muttered,
“Mr. Goyo doesn’t need something like this…. Why did they put it in…. I-I told them not to….”
At the monologue clearly meant for me to hear, I merely held my hand out to her without a word.
Ham Jiwol brightened, rushed to my side, and removed the IV needle.
When she tried to discreetly pocket the gauze used to stop the bleeding, I called her.
“Division Head Ham. Do you need a blood sample?”
Her eyes and mouth opened at the same time.
“I-I do! I need it so, so much!”
I spoke calmly to the woman who looked ready to split me open with a scalpel at any moment.
“I’ll let you draw my blood, so have a conversation with me.”
“A-as long as you want…! Talking with Mr. Goyo—I’d love that…!”
Ham Jiwol ran off, saying she would quickly bring the blood-drawing equipment.
Her flustered back disappeared as though she feared I might change my mind, leaving me alone for a moment.
All the strength suddenly seemed to drain from my body.
Even standing…