Chapter 14 – A Web of Strings

Taro barely registered the walk back to his new department. His legs carried him on autopilot while his mind spun in circles, replaying every word, every glance, every subtle shift in Rylan Daemon Asano's expression.

Something was wrong.

The way Rylan spoke—the way he looked at him—it wasn't normal. He wasn't just some new employee being transferred to a better position.

No, this was something else.

"Taro!"

He snapped out of his daze as a hand waved in front of his face. His new coworker, a cheerful woman named Ayaka, gave him a curious look. "Spacing out on your first day already?"

Taro forced a smile. "Ah, yeah. Just a lot to take in."

"Understandable. Headquarters is a whole different world from a small branch. But don't worry, you'll get used to it."

He nodded, but deep down, he doubted that. Something told him his transfer wasn't just a simple career move.

It was a chess piece being moved into place.

And he had no idea who was playing the game.

---

Later that evening, Taro sat on the train, heading home. The city lights blurred past the window, but he barely noticed. His phone buzzed, pulling him from his thoughts.

Elian: So? How was your first day at the big scary headquarters?

Taro hesitated before typing back.

Taro: Weird.

A second later, Elian replied.

Elian: Weird how?

Taro stared at the screen. Should he tell him?

Something inside him hesitated. He didn't know why, but for now, he kept it vague.

Taro: Just different. A lot to take in.

Elian's next message came quickly.

Elian: Sounds like you need a distraction. Let's eat out when you get a day off.

Taro chuckled despite himself.

Taro: You just want an excuse to eat expensive food, don't you?

Elian: Maybe. But also, I haven't seen you much, and I get bored easily.

Taro shook his head, a small smile lingering on his lips.

Taro: Alright, I'll let you know.

For now, he pushed aside the unsettling feeling in his chest.

He'd deal with it later.