My workplace suddenly assigned a new mission: to conduct an undercover investigation into illegal coal mines and brick kilns in Shanxi.

Rumors about these black operations were circulating, but without concrete evidence or impactful materials, such stories were both the hottest and most sensitive for a news agency.

After verifying the tip, company executives decided to send their most seasoned reporter for the undercover investigation.

Securing impactful evidence was crucial—news reporting demands solid proof. Yet these illegal mines and kilns were extremely dangerous.

If the undercover reporter’s identity was exposed, the ruthless operators, driven by profit and self-preservation, might resort to desperate, violent measures.

Cornered dogs bite, and cornered cats scratch. This mission was both monumental and perilous.

Given these requirements, I was the most suitable candidate in the entire company.

My relentless work ethic had seen me complete countless dangerous undercover assignments involving covert filming and surveillance, the very reason I was revered as a senior figure among the staff.

Company leadership immediately thought of me and called me in for a discussion.

After much deliberation, I decided to accept this assignment, not for any other reason than my career.

This mission was exceptionally dangerous and high-stakes. Success would propel my journalism career to its pinnacle.

Company leadership even stated that completing this task would secure my recommendation to the top executives as their successor, as they are retiring within the next year.

With their endorsement, my chances of promotion are substantial. His position was no small matter, it was one I’d long coveted.

For my ideals, my goals, and to improve my family’s circumstances, I resolved to accept this challenge.

I meticulously studied the company’s detailed intelligence on the illegal coal mines and brick kilns. The company provided all the hardware resources and personnel I requested.

That night, after lengthy discussions with my superior, we finalized my partner and the operational strategy. Everything was set.

Armed with the action plan, I gathered my team for a brief meeting. I felt both apprehensive and eager about the operation, but the prospect of promotion and a raise soon replaced my fear with excitement.

**

“Honey, I’m leaving for a business trip the day after tomorrow…” I said to Yumi as I lay in bed after dinner.

“Oh. How long this time?” Yumi was already accustomed to the nature of my work, so she didn’t seem surprised at all.

“At least a month, maybe longer. It’s an undercover job, so I’ll have to be careful with my phone. Wait for me to contact you. Don’t call me first, okay? If you call and it’s off, don’t worry.”

“Is this one dangerous?” Yumi sat up abruptly upon hearing my words, her face filled with concern.

Truthfully, she’d opposed all my previous assignments—whether undercover work at the forestry station or serving as a war correspondent abroad.

But she could never persuade me otherwise, and in the end, she’d only send me off with her blessings.

Though I traveled frequently for work, she rarely knew about the truly dangerous missions. I concealed them from her whenever possible.

“It’s dangerous, but not life-threatening. Don’t worry. Compared to past missions, this one is child’s play…”

I didn’t tell Yumi how dangerous this mission truly was, afraid it would worry her. In reality, it was extremely perilous…no less so than my time as a war correspondent in Africa. But I was confident in my abilities.

This time, I was dealing with a few black brick kiln owners, not foreign armies or warlords. As long as I was careful, I’d be fine.

“You’re not lying to me?” Yumi asked doubtfully, her face still etched with worry.

“I really haven’t lied to you, honey. Don’t worry. After this, I’ll never take on an undercover assignment again…” I assured Yumi.

Completing this assignment would mean a promotion and raise. Once I became a manager, would I still need to go out on dangerous undercover missions? I could delegate those to my subordinates.

Then I could spend my days in the office, sipping tea, handling paperwork, working on the computer, and organizing reports.

“Really? Why are you smiling like that?” Yumi asked, noticing the huge grin on my face.

“Nothing…” I’d intended to tell Yumi about the potential promotion and raise awaiting me upon my return. Though my boss wouldn’t retire immediately after my return, I’d become a leadership candidate.

I’d spend my days shadowing the boss, assisting and learning, essentially becoming the second-in-command. The thought always made me feel pretty good inside.

Money and power…what guy wouldn’t like that?

But I decided to keep it a surprise for Yumi. I’d tell her the good news after I got back safely. If I said anything now and the mission failed, how could I possibly cover it up?

After a month of good life at home, I wasn’t too worried about leaving. At least not about Yumi.  Jihoon might be impulsive, but she would never give him the chance.

During that month, when our relationship was at its sweetest, I’d casually mentioned Jihoon to Yumi. I’d advised her to keep an eye on his adolescence, especially his psychological and physical development.

I’d phrased it vaguely but firmly, and it seemed to have an effect. I could tell she’d grown slightly wary of him, though not overly so. Still, some caution was better than none.

**

Two days later, after final arrangements with Yumi, I departed with my team.

Sitting in the car, watching my home and city recede into the distance, I felt profoundly moved.

This melancholy would likely never fade… for I cherished my beloved wife beyond measure and held dear the only place where I felt true safety and warmth.

The city faded from view.

I turned my head, rubbed my face, and began to psych myself up.

I would succeed, I had to succeed. Everyone, including myself, was waiting for my triumphant return.

Money, power… I was coming for you…

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