He returned

I glanced at my phone again.

At some point, I had just texted Salin, but he didn't reply. He wasn't answering my calls either. It was frustrating. He could at least explain… why...

— You need to go. — my mother said.

— Mom… I...

— It's your birthday, Jun-ho! I organized a party, everyone already sees you as a leader. Act like it.

I scoffed. It didn't sound like such a powerful line anymore.

— Fine, I'll go. Of course.

— Great.

I arrived at the event with everyone bowing respectfully. There seemed to be a stronger sense of acceptance than usual. I pulled a deep breath into my lungs. But it was time.

Goden was my home. Soon, it would be my domain.

Little by little, I started talking to everyone at the party.

No one asked about Salin.

Had they noticed?