This side of town had a quaint charm from the washed reds, grays, and blues that alternated within the cobblestone pavement and the short buildings. Townsfolk walked from building to building for their daily necessities. Cars slowed for the people jaywalking from any direction.

The atmosphere was far livelier than what Shin and Hansen had experienced during their stay at the inn on the town’s border. A number of specialized and cozy shops are situated side-by-side in this residential neighborhood. This town doesn’t have a place for super-centers to compete against small businesses here.

It was past 8 am, and they came to a french-style cafe to have breakfast. The outdoor setup was lovely from the many bistro tables bestrewed on the boundary between the cafe and the sidewalk.

Shin was reading a newspaper while sipping on an americano served in a heavy mug. His ham and cheese croissant sandwich was left half-eaten on his cooling plate. On the other hand, Hansen had almost devoured a slice of quiche that was slightly greasy than he had hoped. Hansen needed a hot tea to wash away the stickiness inside his throat.

It seemed like many of the townsfolk had the same idea of getting breakfast in this spot. There were only couples that sat outside. Among them was the suspect Ed Troy who was dining with his wife. From what Hansen read, the suspect eats at this cafe every Tuesday and Thursday unless Ed had something important in his schedule.

“So, are we just going to watch him all day?” Hansen spoke softly. They sat at a table far enough from earshot of the suspect, but Hansen wanted to be careful.

“We’re going to see if he makes any unusual moves. Our team had his typical schedule mapped out with the help of his ex-secretary and cams,” Shin held onto his drink.

“I told you if we’re following him all day, he will definitely recognize us at some point. It’s already strange that two guys are having breakfast like this,” Hansen placed his fork and knife beside his empty plate.

“People are indeed staring at us, but mostly, I believe people are astounded by your charm,” Shin closed his eyes and smiled into his mug. He slowly sipped in a pose that was photograph worthy.

Contrary to his words, the passerby’s walked slower after witnessing the elegant man just having his coffee.

Hansen didn’t bother giving that man more attention. He glanced at Ed Troy again. Several customers from the cafe had asked for Ed’s picture. A few wanted the wife in the shot too.

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According to the suspect’s information, Ed Troy was known in this town as a philanthropist who invested money to build out the neighborhoods. He also provided jobs within the tourism business he owns. He increased his influence and made this town a hotspot for getaways and trips. He was a young man in his twenties, and although married, many women still hit on him. Yes, that last part was true as far as Hansen could tell.

—

The stalking mission moved location to a nearby park. Hansen and Shin sat together on one of the many benches overlooking a large fountain. The water pumping up into the air made loud sounds unnatural to a waterfall.

Shin looked at Hansen expectedly, “Do you have a coin that I can toss into the fountain?”

“You’re my boss, you’re supposed to be the one with the money. Wait, we’re on a mission, why are you trying to have fun? This isn’t actually a date.” Hansen twitched.

Shin shrugged, “It’s okay if you don’t have any change.”

—

“Reservation for Jake Kim,” Shin spoke politely to the buttoned-up man awaiting guests.

“Let me see … Ah yes, right this way Mr. Kim,” the staff member nodded.

Hansen raised an eyebrow at ‘Jake,’ but the other man ignored him and followed the staff member.

Shin pulled Hansen’s chair out for him and seated himself after.

Hansen noticed immediately that Ed Troy and his wife were already dining on the opposite side of the restaurant.

They were served white wine and a course meal. Hansen enjoyed every bite and drank his glass that was constantly refilled by the attentive waitstaff. However, much of his drink ended up spilling onto the white-clothed table.

“I said it before and I’ll say it again, this is a sham, a ruse! You pretend we’re on a mission just so you can have a date with me, and then end it with a wine and dine,” Hansen joked.

“That’s enough drinking for you,” Shin reached for Hansen’s glass. “As much as I am amused with this side of you, I prefer your more furtive and vulnerable side.”

“I am not vulnerable,” Hansen breathed out.

“I’ve been watching you,” Shin cut into the mashed potatoes with his knife.

“Well, I’ve been watching you too,” Hansen brushed off.

“ … I know,” Shin smiled after a pensive pause.

Hansen suddenly remembered where he was at. He glanced at where the suspect and his wife dined, meeting the eyes of Ed Troy.

The philanthropist said a word to his wife and stood up. He made his way over to Hansen’s and Shin’s table without breaking eye contact with Hansen.

Ed Troy would reach their table in less than a minute, but Hansen was slightly buzzed, so he kept thinking. Hansen wanted to look back at Shin to warn him with his eyes. However, he was stuck. All Hansen could focus on was the murmurs within the restaurant getting louder as the approaching man made a beeline to their table.