The warm, golden light of the late afternoon filtered through the blinds in Hae-Won's small but meticulously organized apartment. Every piece of furniture was carefully placed, every surface spotless. A faint scent of jasmine tea lingered in the air, mixing with the subtle fragrance of Hae-Won's perfume—something floral and delicate, like her demeanor.

Hae-Won stood in front of her full-length mirror, her heart racing with anticipation. The creamy-colored dress she wore hugged her curves in a way that made her blush even at her own reflection. It was short, barely brushing the tops of her thighs, with thin straps that left her pale shoulders bare. The fabric clung to her body, highlighting every dip and curve, leaving just enough to the imagination to stir curiosity. She tugged at the hem of the dress, debating whether it was too much, but quickly pushed the thought aside. Tonight had to be perfect. She had finally managed to be paired together for the assignment.

Earlier in the day, when their professor had announced the group assignment, Hae-Won had acted fast. With a sweet smile and a quiet word, she convinced the professor to let them work together. It wasn't hard—her polite demeanor and studious reputation made her a perfect partner on paper. And now, the object of her obsession was coming to her apartment.

A shiver of excitement ran through Hae-Won. She could hardly contain it. She moved across the room, adjusting a few details—a candle here, an art book there. Her fingers lingered on a small item resting on the coffee table: a bracelet she had taken from a bag weeks ago. She bit her lip, almost giggling at the thought that it hadn't even been noticed missing.

There was a soft knock at the door.

Hae-Won's breath caught in her throat. She smoothed her dress one last time, her heart pounding as she walked to the door, pausing to make sure her expression was perfect—calm, inviting, yet with a trace of vulnerability. She opened the door, and there she was. The object of her desire stood there completely unaware of the obsession that was boiling just beneath Hae-Won's composed surface.

Hae-Won's eyes lingered, taking in every detail—the way hair framed the face, the curve of lips when smiling. It was all too much, too perfect. Hae-Won's pulse quickened, but her voice remained soft and steady as she closed the door behind her guest.

"Please, come in," Hae-Won said, her accent making the words sound delicate, almost fragile. "You're just in time."

Hae-Won smiled, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear as she guided toward the couch. "I made jasmine tea. Would you like some?" Her fingers brushed lightly against the arm as she motioned to sit.

Hae-Won moved to the kitchen, her back turned but her mind racing. She could feel the presence behind her, hear the soft shuffle of feet as the guest made herself comfortable. It was perfect, just the two of them, alone in the quiet of her apartment. Hae-Won allowed herself a brief smile as she poured the tea, her hands steady despite the rush of adrenaline coursing through her veins and the fact she was putting a sleeping pill in it.

When she returned with the tea, she sat closer than was necessary, their knees almost touching.

Hae-Won handed over the cup of tea, her fingers brushing against the hand. "I'm really glad we got paired together," she said softly, her eyes locking onto the other's. "I've been wanting to get to know you better for a long time."