**Chapter 1: The Shadows of the Past**

Four years had passed since Hyejin emerged victorious from the twisted world of the Squid Game, her life forever scarred by the experiences she endured as player 32. The memories of the games still lingered, a constant reminder of the trauma she had faced. Depression had become her unwelcome companion, making everyday life a struggle. Hyejin's eyes wandered out the window, her gaze lost in thought as she sat in her small, cluttered apartment. The city outside seemed to pulsate with life, a stark contrast to her own stagnant existence. She hadn't left the apartment in days, the only sound the hum of the refrigerator and the occasional chatter from the neighbors. The doorbell rang, breaking the silence. Hyejin hesitated, unsure if she was ready to face the world. She glanced at the peephole and saw a friendly face, one she had grown accustomed to over the past few months. Young-Il, a quiet and unassuming man, stood in the hallway with a gentle smile. They had met through a mutual acquaintance, and Young-Il had taken it upon himself to become Hyejin's unofficial guardian. He would often drop by, bringing groceries or cooked meals, and listening to her talk about her day – or lack thereof. Hyejin appreciated his company, and the kindness he showed her. As she opened the door, Young-Il handed her a steaming bowl of Jjigae. "I thought you might like some comfort food," he said, his eyes crinkling at the corners. Hyejin's heart swelled with gratitude. "Thank you, Young-Il. You're a lifesaver." Over dinner, they chatted about mundane topics, avoiding the elephant in the room – Hyejin's past. But as the night wore on, and the wine flowed, Hyejin found herself confiding in Young-Il about her lingering nightmares and her feelings of purposelessness. Their conversation was interrupted by a phone call from an unknown number. Hyejin's heart skipped a beat as she answered, her voice barely above a whisper. The caller hung up, but not before she heard a familiar voice, one that sent shivers down her spine – Gihun. A mix of emotions swirled inside her: anxiety, guilt, and a hint of excitement. She hadn't seen or spoken to Gihun since the games, and a part of her wondered if he had come to help her, or to drag her back into the darkness. Young-Il's expression turned concerned as Hyejin ended the call, her hand trembling. "What's wrong?" he asked, his voice low and soothing. Hyejin took a deep breath, unsure how much to reveal. But as she looked into Young-Il's eyes, she saw a flicker of understanding, and a hint of something more – something that made her heart flutter. "I need to meet him," she said, a plan beginning to form in her mind. Young-Il's face remained neutral, but his eyes betrayed a glimmer of unease. "I think that's a bad idea, Hyejin." Little did they know, their lives were about to become entangled in a deadly game once more.