When the car stopped, the man waiting outside opened Seong-ho Kim's door and greeted him warmly.

"Vice-Chairman Kim. How have you been? How long has it been? It's been ages."

It was Deok-su Hong, a three-term Shinpyeong assemblyman.

"You came out to meet me yourself, Assemblyman?"

"I stepped out for a smoke, and it was about time for you to arrive, so I waited. I wasn't waiting long, so don't give it a thought."

"Well, now…"

Seong-ho smiled.

"I should have been here first. I'm sorry. I rushed out as fast as I could, but I'm a little late."

"Not at all. We were early."

Assemblyman Hong invited Seong-ho inside.

"Shall we go in?"

Seong-ho nodded and followed Deok-su in.

Inside, a server was waiting to show them to the room that had been prepared.

Knock, knock.

The server led them down a long hallway, stopped in front of a room, knocked, and carefully slid the door open.

When the door opened, Assemblyman Hong gestured for Seong-ho to go in first.

"After you, then."

Seong-ho didn't argue and went in.

As he entered, a man rose from his seat, came over and held out his hand.

"I've really wanted to meet you. I'm Yeong-gyu Lee."

"Mayor. It's a pleasure to meet you. I'm Seong-ho Kim of Ilhyeon."

"Ha ha ha. Mayor? It's been over a year since I stepped down as mayor."

Seong-ho gave a quiet laugh.

He knew the title didn't really make the man uncomfortable.

Right. When you're aiming higher, being called mayor isn't welcome.

Seong-ho read Yeong-gyu's mind in an instant and apologized.

"I'm sorry. You led Seoul so well that it's stuck in my head, and the title must have slipped out before I knew it. I'll be careful from now on."

"What does it matter what you call me? On a fine day like this, just getting to eat good food with good company is a fine thing, isn't it? Please, sit."

Then he waved at Assemblyman Hong, who was standing at the door.

"Have them bring in the food. The Vice-Chairman must be hungry."