Ji-Hoon's mind reeled. "Kim-Hye, is it true? Were you Sophia's protégée?"
Kim-Hye's eyes flashed. "Yes, but I escaped. I'm here to help you."
Ji-Hoon's trust shattered. "Why should I believe you?"
Kim-Hye's voice trembled. "I swear, Ji-Hoon, my loyalty is to you."
Park-Jin intervened. "Let's not jump to conclusions. We need proof."
Ha-Young arrived, her expression grim. "I found evidence. Kim-Hye's been in contact with Sophia."
Ji-Hoon's heart sank. "Kim-Hye, how could you?"
Kim-Hye's face crumpled. "I was trying to gather intel... for us."
Choi Seung-Hyun approached Ji-Hoon's team.
"I can help you take down Sophia," Seung-Hyun said. "I have resources and connections."
Jae-Hyun's eyes narrowed. "What's in it for you?"
Seung-Hyun smiled. "Let's just say, I have a score to settle."
As Ji-Hoon's team navigated the treacherous landscape, they realized:
"Trust no one. Expect betrayal."
Choi Seung-Hyun's words echoed in Ji-Hoon's mind. "I can help you take down Sophia."
Ji-Hoon's instincts flared. "What's your motive?"
Seung-Hyun's smile hinted at secrets. "Let's say, Sophia and I have history."
Jae-Hyun's eyes narrowed. "What kind of history?"
Seung-Hyun leaned in. "The kind that fuels revenge."
Park-Jin's journalist senses tingled. "I'll dig into your past, Seung-Hyun."
Seung-Hyun chuckled. "Be my guest."
As Park-Jin began investigating, Ha-Young confronted Kim-Hye.
"Kim-Hye, why did you betray Ji-Hoon's trust?" Ha-Young asked.
Kim-Hye's tears fell. "I was desperate. Sophia threatened to ruin my family."
Ha-Young's heart softened. "We'll protect you."
Yoon-Ah joined the conversation. "But can we trust Seung-Hyun?"
Ha-Young hesitated. "I'm not sure."
Meanwhile, Sophia gloated.
"Eric, Ji-Hoon's team is crumbling," Sophia said.
Eric's expression turned grim. "Not yet. Seung-Hyun's involvement changes things."
Sophia's smile faltered. "What do you mean?"
Eric's voice dropped. "Seung-Hyun has resources... and a hidden agenda."