Li Wei and Kai moved through the streets under the cover of night. Every alley, every streetlamp was a potential threat. Rain slicked pavement reflected neon lights, casting distorted shadows around them.
"Why does it always feel like the city itself is against us?" Li Wei muttered, half-joking, half-serious.
Kai didn't answer immediately. His hand brushed against Li Wei's—a fleeting, electric contact. "Because sometimes it is," he finally said, voice low and dangerous. "But together, we can turn the odds."
They reached a secure location: a luxury apartment that Chen had arranged. Inside, Li Wei noticed files and monitors tracking Tang Lei's every move. Information was power—but trust was fragile.
Kai's eyes softened as he looked at him. "You've changed, Li Wei. You've become… essential."
Li Wei's heart thudded. "Essential?"
Kai stepped closer. "To me."
Before Li Wei could respond, a loud crash from the balcony sent them both spinning. Tang Lei's men were attempting another attack.
Kai lunged, shielding Li Wei, as a masked figure appeared on the balcony, holding something that glinted dangerously in the dim light.