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Upon returning home, the living room was in disarray, but Peter was completely oblivious to his mistakes and eagerly came over to greet Anna.
Anna was initially stunned, but after looking at the innocent expression on Peter's face, she could only helplessly pat his head before dragging her tired body to clean up the mess. She then placed the shoes that had been ruined by him into a bag.
It was then that Anna realized Peter was not the angel sent from above to accompany her; he was simply a little rascal.
But what could she do? Watching him act cute at her feet instantly melted her anger away.
After feeding Peter, Anna sat on the sofa and let herself relax. The large house no longer felt empty with little Peter around; his energetic antics filled the space constantly.
"What should I do?" Anna picked him up, and Peter instinctively wiped the food remnants from his mouth on her clothes, fully revealing his mischievous nature.
"You little troublemaker, wiping your mouth on me..." Anna said with a playful scold, then fell into thought. Rather than speaking to Peter, it felt more like she was talking to herself: "I really wish someone could come help me right now. But with Andy not here, who else can I turn to? You know... do I really have to go work there? Actually, I know I could ask Hogga for help, but I always bother him like this, it's just..." Anna glanced down at Peter, who was blissfully nibbling on his fingers while resting on her lap. She smiled slightly and said, "Forget it, you wouldn't understand anyway."
Just as she finished speaking, her phone rang. Anna picked it up and saw that it was Andy. She was overjoyed and quickly pressed the answer button.
"Andy! When are you coming back?" Anna said happily.
But perhaps due to signal issues, Andy's voice came through in fragments.
"Anna... no... incident... I... can't..."
"What are you saying, Andy?" Such broken speech made Anna feel anxious.
"No... Liu is... needs..."
The connection remained choppy, and soon enough, even his voice completely vanished.
Anna put down her phone in disappointment. After waiting so long for a call from Andy, it was unfortunate that it turned out like this. But what did Andy want to say? It seemed he mentioned something about Yoo Jae-suk. Did he find out something and call to tell me? At that moment, Anna just hoped that Andy would come back soon, but quickly, a text from Andy completely dashed her hopes.
"Don't get involved in this matter anymore. I'll explain when I get back."
Anna was stunned and quickly replied, "Why?"
Holding her phone, Anna waited for Andy to provide an explanation, even if it was simple. However, another hour passed with no message from Andy. Perhaps it was indeed as he said; he would give Anna an explanation when he returned. But by then, it might all be too late.
A vague thought crossed Anna's mind; Andy must know something important about this situation. Seeing his reaction, he definitely wouldn’t help, regardless of whether he came back or not...
What should she do? Anna felt completely lost.
Even though she had learned some things, she had no ability or means to delve deeper and uncover more...
She felt useless; if this dragged on, all her previous efforts would be in vain...
Sensing Anna's low spirits, Peter stopped being restless and nestled into her arms.
Feeling the warm touch, Anna snapped back to reality, patted Peter's head, and forced a smile. Upon seeing this, Peter stuck out his tongue and wagged his tail.
Anna sighed and said, "Let's go to sleep; I'm so tired."
Peter accompanied Anna as his small body lay beside her pillow, his round eyes bright and shiny, quietly watching her.
"Thank you for being here with me. Recently, I've been really exhausted." Anna stroked Peter's soft body.
"Many people don't understand why I go to such lengths to help Brother Jae-suk, even knowing that this situation could be dangerous... Brother Jae-suk is not only my idol but has also genuinely helped me a lot. Sometimes the guests are not easy to work with; it's always Brother Jae-suk who steps in to help me out and has taught me many ways to handle situations and attitudes. If it weren't for Brother Jae-suk stopping me once again, I might have lost my life... He is kind to everyone and often sacrifices himself for others. Why did it turn out like this this time... Running Man has always been the family I've dreamed of; if Brother Jae-suk is gone, the head of the family will be lost, and the family will fall apart... I can't just stand by and watch that happen..." Glancing at Peter, whose eyelids were already starting to droop, Anna smiled slightly and held him close. "Sleep now; you won't understand all my rambling anyway. Just being here with me is enough."
The night was so quiet, and I had not fallen asleep. In the early hours, sporadic snowflakes began to gently tap against the window.
The previous layer of snow had not yet melted before a new one started to accumulate. This year's snow seemed to arrive unexpectedly, one after another, leaving no romantic atmosphere behind except for the increasingly cold weather.
"Let's have a gathering. Seven o'clock tonight at Samsun BBQ Restaurant."
Upon receiving the text from Heo Dong-hoon, Anna knew that with the first trial about to start, everyone was feeling overwhelmed in the face of an uncertain situation.
As expected, upon arriving at the Barbecue Restaurant, the atmosphere felt less like a gathering and more like a serious meeting. The grilled meat on the plate had turned a deep yellow, and it was only after someone reminded them that they moved the meat to another plate.
"There’s only one week left until the trial starts, but I asked someone to check with the police, and there’s no progress at all. In fact, Gao Yingmei's death will only complicate Brother Jae-seok's case further," Heo Dong-hoon said as he drank a glass of Soju. Since marrying Kim Go Eun, he had quit drinking, but today he broke his vow. Sister Gao, who was also present today, looked at him with understanding.
Anna knew what Heo Dong-hoon meant; it wasn't just now— even when this case was settled, the police would not uncover any truth.
"There are basically reporters lurking at the entrance of our neighborhood. The last time I went to see Brother Jae-seok, it took a lot of effort not to be discovered by them," Gary said. "I also wanted to check with the police about any progress, but it turns out there is none."
"Now, the whole circle is reacting; we show support for Brother Jae-seok and hope to gain more backing. However, endorsements have inexplicably been canceled, and shows we were set to appear in have suddenly replaced us," Ji-hyo said. "The worst off right now besides Brother Jae-seok is Jung Kook. Even now, rumors persist that Jung Kook drove Gao Yingmei to her death because of Brother Jae-seok." Ji-hyo glanced at Jung Kook.
"There’s nothing we can do; it’s expected. The more glorious we were before, the more people will take advantage of our downfall. This is something we can't avoid," Kim Jong Kook said with a wry smile.
"I..." Kwon Ryeol spoke up with a troubled expression, lowering his head as if he had pondered for a long time before saying, "I've received an invitation from the Running Man production team in China; I need to go work there."
"What?"
"I'm really sorry, but my wife is pregnant, and I'm about to become a father. If I don't have any income soon, it won't work," Kwon Ryeol explained.
"I'm in the same situation," Park Seok added. "I've also received an invitation from China."
Everyone fell silent; no one had the right to stop a man from fighting for his wife, children, and family.
"But we already agreed with Director Zhao that once Running Man starts airing, no matter how much money they offer in China, we will come back," Kwon Ryeol said, and Park Seok nodded in agreement.
Seeing that everyone remained quiet, Kim Jong Kook said, "Don't take it too personally, Park Seok and Kwon Ryeol. We all understand. Running Man will definitely return, and you are always welcome back whenever that happens."
Another round of unspoken sighs filled the room.
"Why? This matter is clearly full of flaws; why can't we find any loopholes or evidence? Why are there so many questions that the police won't investigate?" Kwang-soo said, feeling frustrated.
"The police... won't investigate..." Anna said expressionlessly.
Everyone looked at Anna in surprise. It was only then that Anna realized she shouldn't have revealed such information. Otherwise, not only would Jin Zhongxi, who had met her before, get into trouble, but the other members would also not let it go. If they spread this information given their status, it wouldn't lead to a thorough investigation; instead, it would result in even harsher suppression.
Anna awkwardly smiled and said, "Everyone knows how incompetent those police officers are; they definitely won't make an effort to investigate."
"Yeah, how many cases happen every day in the Republic of Korea? How many can actually be solved?" Kwang-soo added.
"However, I remember from Gao Yingmei's profile that she used to work as a night dancer at Cat's Paw. Cat's Paw is frequented by people from the industry or political circles, wealthy businessmen, and celebrities. Is it possible that someone she met there bribed her?" Jung Kook suggested.
Indeed, Jung Kook was the sharpest among them; he had hit upon a crucial point. It seemed that this was the only lead they could pursue in the current situation.
"Should we go inquire there?" Kwang-soo asked.
"There's no use," Anna replied, lowering her head and speaking in a muffled voice.
"Why?" Kwang-soo asked as everyone turned to her with puzzled expressions again.
"Things in the Cat's Paw cannot be discussed outside that bar; it's the rule," Anna said.
"How do you know that?" Ji-hyo looked at Anna in surprise.
"Because... I was there three days ago," Anna replied.
It had been difficult to find a place that might have clues, but hearing Anna say this made the atmosphere turn somber again.
"I've heard about the rules of the Cat's Paw Bar as well, and for so long, everyone has tacitly followed them. Occasionally, someone breaks the rules, and I've heard they pay a heavy price," Kim Jong Kook said.
"So, what should we do?" Kwang-soo sighed.
Anna felt increasingly heavy-hearted. After that, she could no longer focus on their conversation. It wasn't until they finished their meal and exited the Barbecue Restaurant that the cold wind hit her face, making her feel somewhat more awake.
"Be careful on your way home." After Simple's casual farewell, they all dispersed, each lost in their own thoughts.
Walking down the street, there were few people in Seoul on this deep winter night. Perhaps it was due to her heightened anxiety, but Anna felt as if a black car had been silently following her from about ten meters behind for quite some time. She didn't know when it had started following her, or maybe she was just being paranoid.
Gathering her courage, Anna turned around to see who was inside the car, but suddenly the vehicle turned away, and her vision was filled with blinding light...
"What are you doing?"
A familiar voice instantly captured Anna's attention. Turning back, she saw Hogga's face appearing particularly pale against the backdrop of silver hair and glaring light.
"Hogga?"
The black car made a U-turn and drove away.
Hogga smiled lightly and said, "Are you not driving today?"
Indeed, Hogga seemed to know everything. In front of him, there was nothing that needed to be hidden, not even small matters like this.
"Because of the gathering, I was afraid I might drink. I don't want to drive under the influence," Anna replied as she resumed walking toward the subway station.
Hogga walked beside her at a comfortable distance, moving slowly.
"How's the investigation into Mr. Yoo Jae-suk going?"
"Not much progress. However, thank you for helping me find out so much about Gao Yingmei."
"You've already mentioned it; I got it," Hogga said.
Only then did Anna suddenly remember that when she called to thank him, it had been a woman's voice.
"Right, I almost forgot. But I have to say it again—thank you," Anna said with a smile.
"Cat's Paw, are you going?" Hogga asked softly.
"You know about that too..." Anna was already used to it, but she still felt a bit surprised by such a secret matter.
Hogga smiled lightly, neither confirming nor denying.
"I need to think about it... Do you really think going there will be useful?" Anna asked.
"How would you know unless you try? Otherwise, you could ask me to help you investigate this matter further," Hogga said with a smile.
Anna had never thought about it, nor could she be unaware of Hogga's abilities, but she really couldn't bring herself to speak to him again.
"No need, I don't want to trouble you anymore."
"How could it be a trouble?"
Anna glanced at him, and they fell into silence. Their conversations were always this Simple: one didn't speak, and the other wouldn't ask. They quietly waited for the subway together.
"Here it comes." The woman lazily sat on the leather chair and gestured for Anna to sit down.
"Thank you," Anna said as she took a seat across from the woman.
"Have you made your decision?" the woman asked.
"Yes, I've made my decision."
The woman smiled slightly, her lips curling into a charming grin.
"When do we start?" Anna inquired.
Seeing Anna frowning with a determined expression, the woman chuckled and said, "It's not like you're going to battle; don't be so serious." The woman sized up Anna, stood up, and said, "Come with me."
Who says this isn't going to battle? In three days, the first trial will begin, and she no longer had time to hesitate.
In a room around the corner, Anna followed the woman inside, where rows of brightly colored outfits with minimal fabric hung silently.
"Pick one and change into it. I don't accept students dressed like that. Also, just call me Sister Cat from now on."
"Alright, got it, Sister Cat."
"After you change, come find me in the Dressing Room." With that, Cat gave Anna a teasing smile and left the room, closing the door behind her.
Anna sifted through the clothes, trying to find something that was not too revealing. Just then, two tall, curvy beauties with long hair walked in. They glanced at the reserved Anna with disdain and casually changed into a skirt that barely covered their backsides, swaying as they walked out.
Anna was left dumbfounded by their figures and actions, and only sighed in relief when she saw the door close again.
"Phew... this is really bad..."
After rummaging for a while, she finally found a skirt with slightly more fabric at the back. It was still just enough to cover her thighs and was strapless...
Compared to the others, Anna had no other choice. So she put on the skirt, which clashed completely with her snow boots. Covering her chest with one hand and pulling down the skirt with the other, she stepped out of the room.
"Sister Cat, I... I'm ready..." Anna stood at the door of the Dressing Room.
Cat glanced at her and smiled slightly, saying, "Not bad. Come here and have a seat."
Anna sat down in front of the makeup mirror that Cat pointed to.
"What size shoe do you wear?"
"36."
Cat turned to a girl who was applying makeup nearby and said, "Go to my shoe cabinet and bring me a pair of high heels."
The girl put down her lipstick, nodded in agreement, and got up to fetch them.
"Let's do your makeup." Cat picked up the makeup tools.
"No need, Sister Cat, I'll do it myself," Anna said.
"I'm just going to teach you how to apply it. Starting tomorrow, of course, you'll do it yourself," Cat said with a cold smile.
Anna had no choice but to sit still, watching as her face was gradually painted with alluring colors, making her look less and less like herself. As the makeup became more complete, Anna grew increasingly nervous, gripping her hands tightly and sweating profusely.
"Relax..." Cat, seeing through her emotions, said with a smile, "If you're this tense, the makeup will look off. It wouldn't be good if I ruined my reputation here. Don't worry, everyone who comes to me must follow my rules; in Cat's Paw, you are absolutely safe."
Anna nodded.
Cat brought over a long golden curly wig and placed it on Anna's head.
"What is this...?"
"Don't tell me you plan to stay here forever. We both know why you're here. And you know what kind of people come here. You wouldn't want to be recognized for having worked here in the future, right..." Cat continued to smile seductively.
This time, Anna sincerely said, "Thank you, Sister Cat."
Cat turned around, lit a cigarette, and took a puff. Anna couldn't tell what expression she had at that moment as she slowly exhaled the smoke and walked to the door, saying, "Go ahead; whether you find what you're looking for depends on you."
"By the way, can I ask you about Gao Yingmei? She must have had some familiar customers here," Anna inquired.
Cat paused for a moment without turning back, smiled slightly, and said, "Yes, one named Lee Ji-hyun and another named Jin Shun-kyu."
As night fell gradually, more people filled the bar, and the atmosphere began to heat up.
A middle-aged man, already balding, with a noticeably protruding belly and an oily face, was surrounded by two women as they played rock-paper-scissors and drank. The two women were clearly the ones Anna had seen earlier in the dressing room, while the middle-aged man looked familiar; Anna seemed to have seen him on the news, well-dressed as he discussed the latest policy report.
When the women spotted Anna, one of them glanced at her. The middle-aged man grinned widely and waved at Anna, inviting her to join them. Startled, Anna quickly walked away.
She bumped into someone—none other than Mr. Park, who had appeared on Running Man. Anna widened her eyes in shock and hurriedly turned away.
"Miss, are you alright?" Mr. Park asked.
"I'm fine," Anna shook her head.
"Can I buy you a drink?"
Anna dared not accept his offer; continuing like this could easily lead to her being recognized.
"I... I need to go to the restroom... I'll see you later." With that, she quickly fled the scene.
Sitting down on a bar stool, Anna took a moment to catch her breath. If this continued, she would leave empty-handed...
Lee Ji-hyun, Jin Shun-kyu, Jin Shun-kyu. Anna didn't know them well but felt that the name Lee Ji-hyun sounded familiar; she was sure she had heard it somewhere but couldn't recall where.
A beautifully decorated cocktail in shades of blue and green was placed in front of Anna.
"First day here, have a drink to relax," said the man who had stopped her earlier.
Anna took a sip and smiled, saying, "Thank you, it's delicious."
The man continued to mix drinks while saying, "Take it easy, the aftertaste is quite strong. Also, this place doesn't seem suitable for you."
Anna smiled helplessly and asked, "But there's no other way. Can you tell me about Gao Yingmei now?"
"I'm just a bartender," the man replied, shaking the cocktail shaker in his hand. "But I do know that a few days before the incident with Yoo Jae-suk, she was often taken out by a man, and then she completely stopped working. She was in such need of money, and this job pays much better than her previous one."
"Who is that person?" Anna asked.
"Lee Ji-hyun, a regular here."
Anna pondered for a moment without speaking.
"He usually comes around 11 o'clock every weekend; I don't know if he'll show up today," the man said as he poured the prepared drink into a glass.
Anna glanced at the time; it was already past ten. She said to the man, "If he comes, can you let me know?"
The man smiled slightly and said, "Aren't you afraid? Don't you know who he is?"
Anna indeed only found the name familiar but couldn't recall who he was, shaking her head in confusion.
Suddenly, several women who had been sitting there laughed and went towards the door. Before long, they returned with a slightly plump middle-aged man.
"Look, it's him; he's here," the man indicated to Anna with his eyes.
Anna looked over, and as the colorful lights flashed across the man's face, she was utterly astonished; she finally remembered who this man was.
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