credits to the owner

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The birds are chirping, and the sun is attempting to break through my drapes. A new day, a new dread. My normal pattern is to get up at 7 a.m., eat a little breakfast, and rush to work, but I often skip breakfast in order to get there early. I lost a few pounds as a result of my bad lifestyle, but I don't care about my appearance as long as I can go to work and earn money. I huffed as the freezing air conditioner slapped my cheek as I arrived at the office. The employees in my immediate vicinity bowed, and I bowed back while scouring the lobby for someone. Yes, indeed! Minah, that cunning fox and devious , has yet to arrive; I despise her for her terrible attitude toward me.

There was one day when I was 5 minutes late, 5 ing minutes late, and she was snickering like a little while my manager admonished me. It was my first time arriving late at work, and it was all unintentional! The crappy bus broke down, and I had to hail a taxi in the middle of a busy street. She was never on time! Like so many times before, she was able to get away with every wrongdoing she committed, and I had no idea why. Maybe she's having an affair with our manager, but that's not surprising, right?

I take a deep breath and stroll calmly to my desk, where I begin to arrange all of my stationery, laptop, and documents. I immediately start working after I finish setting everything because I need to finish forecast by today if I want to take an extra day off this week. Today is Wednesday, which means I have two more days before I can relax over the weekend. The company just unveiled a new project, which they described as "extraordinary and excellent" and which will "enhance the company's image." No, I am uninterested in this project, but I have no choice but to complete it. It was not an easy job being an economic consultant; assessing rate structures, cost of money, rates of return, and other economic characteristics in the this industry can be rather stressful.

After an hour of nonstop research and document updates, I decided to take a 10-minute break before continuing my work. But then I heard a bothersome voice. 

"Are you already taking a break? This is why I believe you are unqualified for this job. I'm not sure why Mr. Hwang picked you for this task. Clearly, I am better than you." Minah stated this as she looked up and down at me.

"Unfortunately, Minah, Mr. Hwang prefers me the most since I make sure the job is done rather than sleeping around and relying on the interns to finish my task." I give her a sweet grin. 

She gave me a cold stare and walked away. Oh, my goodness! I'm sure you couldn't take my retort, so why start a battle in the first place? Next time, choose someone who is on the same level as you. I'm not sure why she despises me so much.

I believed we could be greatest friends when I initially started at this company since she looked so sweet and had a nice voice. She was always concerned about my well-being, and we had lunch together on occasion. But all changed when, despite being a new employee, I was promoted, but she, who had worked for 5 years, had never received the promotion she desired. The project was then launched, and I was picked to participate in it, whereas she was not chosen and requested to return to her ordinary office duty.

I don't mind switching positions with her if I know this role is so demanding, and I pity her because she was a hard worker to begin with. When Mr. Hwang asks for my opinion on other employees, I always recommend her. But then I found out how she managed to remain in this organization in the most despicable way possible. Since then, I've begun to disassociate myself from her and have rebutted every snide remark she's made.

"Mr. Hwang wants to see you right now, Hana." Kibum abruptly spoke out, jolting me out of my reverie. Mr. Hwang's secretary, Kibum, is the loveliest gentleman in the office, constantly speaking sweetly to everyone and showing great respect for others. In contrast to that chick. 

"Thank you, Kibum," I said, truly smiling at him.

I'm genuinely rather apprehensive when I approach up to Mr. Hwang. I'm not supposed to see him before my deadline, yet he called me unexpectedly. Is there anything I did wrong?

Last week's documents? I've turned it in. What about the meeting? I'd been to every single one of his meetings. Is it because my work is sloppy, or is it something else? No, if it was sloppy, he would have scolded me long ago, but all I've gotten from him is praise. 

HANA, SNAP OUT OF IT! Why would I be concerned about this if I had done nothing wrong?

I knocked three times on Mr. Hwang's door when I arrived. Yes, employees must knock three times. It's an odd rule, but we've been warned about it before. The quantity of knocks you indicates who you are. Employees, for example, must knock three times, Kibum only once, and if there are any visitors, Kibum must knock five times. Strange, but I never complain because it isn't difficult.

"Please come in." Says a gruff voice. 

I bowed nicely and said, "Good morning, Mr. Hwang." 

"Yes, Hana, good morning. Please have a seat; it's nice to meet you. I'd want to ask you a question "He said this while pointing to the chairs.

Mr. Hwang In Yeop, who is 30 years old, became the company's CEO at an early age. Despite his youth, he was able to face any problem and create ideas that helped this company achieve its current status.

"What's the status of your research? Is everything in order? "He inquired. 

"Mr. Hwang, yes. Everything is progressing as planned, and I am confident that I will be able to submit the paperwork to you today." 

He smiled sweetly at me and added, "As expected from my greatest employee."

"However, I heard from your manager that you want to take two weeks off without pay? What is the reason behind this?" He inquired. 

"Mr. Hwang, yes. There are just too many things going on in my life right now, and I really need a break. You do not need to be concerned about all of the tasks you have assigned because they are nearly completed. Before taking a break, I'll submit it as soon as feasible." I explained myself in a courteous manner.

"No, Hana, I'm not concerned about the tasks. I'm concerned for your wellbeing" He spoke softly. 

What, you're concerned about me? 

"Mr. Hwang, I am not going to run away! I'm just going to take a break from reality for a little bit, and then I'll return to this company after my vacation is over." I laughed as I told him.

"That's not it, Hana. I'm not concerned about you as an employer; rather, I'm concerned about you as a man." Sheepishly, he admitted. 

What the .

He must have noticed my befuddled expression because he tried to explain, "No, I mean I'm concerned if you're having troubles. I mean, you have difficulties that you can't solve on your own and need someone to listen to you out. That sort of thing. I don't want anything to happen to you, either physically or mentally, because you are the best employee I've ever had. Oh my god, I have no idea what I'm talking about at the moment. But you can always call me if you need someone to chat to or a drinking buddy, and I'll be there for you in a heartbeat." He replied quietly as he my hand.

This is bizarre. Mr. Hwang has never acted in this manner before, and I am not pleased. 

While smiling sweetly at him, I carefully withdrawal my hand and place it on my lap. "Thank you very much for your concern, Mr. Hwang. I appreciate it, but I believe our relationship should be limited to that of employer and employee. Is there anything else you'd like to inquire about?"

Mr. Hwang appears startled by my statement but quickly hides his surprise. "That's all there is to it. Thank you very much. You are free to go." 

"Mr. Hwang, thank you very much. I'll get the documents to you as soon as possible." I replied as I walked out of his office.

I hold my chest once I'm out of his office. What on earth was that?! That was the first time he had acted like that, and it terrified me! I dashed to my desk and began working immediately. I can go home early today if I do this by today, and I won't have to come to work on Thursday and Friday.

4:30 p.m. The time is displayed on the clock. Finally, all of these vexing and demanding researches are over, and I can finally unwind for two weeks! I gathered my belongings and hurried to Mr. Hwang's office.

"What brings you here, Hana? It's almost time to go home "Kibum enquired. 

"These documents must be submitted to Mr. Hwang. By today, I promised to submit it to him. Is he currently at the office?" 

"He did not return to office after lunch. He said that he felt fatigued and ill. However, you are free to give me the paperwork! I'll give it to him first thing in the morning tomorrow." Kibum grinned as he looked at me.

"Thank you so much, Kibum!" I hand over the documents and prepare to leave. 

"Hana, wait!  I heard you asked for a two-week unpaid leave? Is that true? Are you all right?" With a worried tone in his voice, he asked. 

"Yes, I requested it last week, and it was approved.  I'm fine; actually, I just needed a break." I responded. 

'Have fun!' he exclaimed as I ran to the elevator, eager to go home.

"Thanks!" I waved at him as the elevator doors closes.

---

Finally, I've arrived at my home. I stripped down to my underwear and changed into a pair of shorts and a camisole. I pull out a tub of ice cream and a spoon to enjoy while searching through my suitcase, which I had brought out for my two-week vacation the day before. Everything appears to be in order, so I may be able to begin packing my belongings by tomorrow or Friday, as my flight is on Saturday morning. My phone abruptly rang.

I took a brief peek at the caller before answering it. "Moshi moshi oneesan!" 

My sister laughed, "What the hell, Hana?" 

"Daemin, what do you want? I just got home and was planning to binge watch till you called and ruined my mood." I said this while I scooped ice cream.

"Hey, thats rude! I just want to ask how was your day? Did you buy the ticket yet or you want me to buy it for you?" Daemin asked me.

"Thanks but I already bought it last Sunday. Don't worry. Work but atleast I finished my tasks for the new project." 

"That's great. Anyway, I've already transferred your vacation allowance to you. If it's not enough, please let me know, okay? I'm sure mom give you some also." she said

"I'm big enough and make enough money that I don't need allowance from you! Daemin, I'm alright on my alone." I sighed. 

"Hana-ah, you're still our baby. Take the money and have a good time, okay? Please do not buy any souvenirs for us! Souvenirs irritate me. Take care, and if you need anything, please phone or text me, okay? Goodbye!" She hung up the phone.

I had no intention of buying you any souvenirs in the first place lol, I grumbled.

I turned off the television, placed the ice cream in the freezer, and sat down in my bed. Finally, I'll be able to get some rest. I closed my eyes and fell asleep almost instantly.

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Author's note :

Hi guys! So I have updated the chapter 2. I hope it is good enough because I enjoy writing this chapter. I will update the next chapter as soon as possible and will not make you guys wait too long!

See you on the next chapter.