Crashed and Crushed

[Song of the Day: INFINITE (Kim Sunggyu) - Kontrol]

The Saturday morning was dry and warm. Just like how the first week of June began, everything ran like a blazing fire. At the twenty-third floor of the Nam Corporation’s building, many foreign investors as well as company board of directors gathered inside the huge conference room for the finalization of the Hainan Project.

It was Kim Sunggyu who spearheaded the said business venture where billions of bucks were invested just to make a risky project to become possible. For its finalization, he stood confidently in front of the board of directors and foreign investors to give the conclusion of the project which started eight months ago. He did not mind how his inner self was shaking with doubts. Doubts have no room if the whole company where thousands of employees depend on, is at stake. Kim Sunggyu has always been aware of that.

Business is not different from gambling—it's either you win or lose. Betting the most valuable thing you have can give you the success you ever wished for, but can also take away everything you have in a swift second. Nonetheless, it is now or never. Taking risks is a stepping stone for a businessman. Accepting everything—from triumph to loss—business is business not for some typical reason because it is something that fully requires hardwork, perseverance and confidence.

"Since the construction project has been finished at Hainan now, I can assure you that all of the risks we have taken, all of the efforts and resources we have exerted and used, will be of productive result," Director Kim Sunggyu stated, clicking the to turn the digital slide to its next page. "As what you can see, this construction project is not just any ordinary project. This envisions the expansion of Nam Corporation's business in partnership with you, our business affiliates, into a larger scale.”

A man in fifties, who was included among the foreign investors questioned, "Can you elaborate it further in a clearer way, Director Kim? Also, what is the biggest thing we could expect from this project?"

"Mr. Xiu, the twenty-five storey building erected by the project at Hainan will become one of the biggest hotels in the whole China," Sunggyu elaborated in his professional and diplomatic way of speaking. "It will become a big benefit not only for us, but also for the ordinary citizens who will be given the chance to work with us for the success of our companies in the Chinese market. By June, please expect that there will be a 40% increase in our company's profits because of this project."

"Forty percent? How can you assure that, Director Kim?" Mr. Song Sonha asked. He was one of the board of directors of Nam Corporation. Song Son-ha was the former president of Nam Corporation’s finance department prior the time he became a board director of the company. He’s the sixth biggest shareholder of the Nam Corporation, with chairman and founder, Nam Shinwoo and Nam Sunghee, the senior vice president as the first and second respectively, CEO and President Nam Donghwan as the third, Nam Jisook, the chairman of the Nam Corporation and Kim Sunggyu, the executive director, both as the fourth biggest shareholders. Despite the fact of not owning any position in the company, Hope Café’s current manager, Nam Woohyun remains as the fifth biggest shareholder due to the fact that he’s part of the Nam household, just right before Director Song Sonha who’s on the sixth.

"With the marketing and other forms of strategies that I proposed since the inception of this project, I can confidently assure it to you," Director Kim Sunggyu candidly answered. "As what I have explained during the first half of this meeting, my team has already analyzed and measured the possible consequences of this project—from the good to the bad ones. To alleviate the possible bad outcomes, again, as what I also stated after I discussed the major core of this project, I made sure that I am not empty-handed to make this project a success. I will not risk you, our investors, my own reputation and position, and the whole company itself if this project will fail. Here in Nam Corporation, there is no room for either failure or mediocrity, and that was proven through the years of this company's service."

Satisfied with Director Kim’s statement, Mr. Song Sonha gave him a smile and stated, "I am looking forward to that, Director Kim."

The sign of approval from the board of directors as well as the foreign investors and the company's incumbent president and CEO, Nam Donghwan was seen when they nodded their heads.

"Then, this means the meeting is adjourned?" CEO Nam asked, wearing a smile on his face. ‘I am really proud of this son of mine. You’ve done a job well done, Sunggyu-ahdul.’

After a while, Director Kim Sunggyu officially concluded his presentation when he gave everyone a ninety-degree bow. Impressed with his excellence, they showered him with a loud round of applause and standing ovation,

"As expected of you, Director Kim, you are really an excellent man," Mr. Fukou from S&C Industries complimented, giving the executive director of the Nam Corporation a handshake.

"Arigatou gozaimasu, Mr. Fukou. I am very thankful that you are one of those who trusted me," Sunggyu answered, bowing his head. "Although it took eight months for this project to be finished, your trust never faltered. Thank you very much, Sir."

"There's no worry with that, Director Kim," Mr. Fukou assured. "You deserve my trust not just because we have been business partners for a long time now, but because you proved yourself enough to me."

After having a short talk with the rest of the foreign investors and board of directors, he bid his farewell to them before they left the conference room. It was only CEO Nam, Secretary Lee Kwangsoo and Director Kim Sunggyu who were left.

"Kwangsoo-hyung, please bring my laptop and the rest inside my office," Sunggyu requested, handing Kwangsoo his things one by one. "After that, you may take your lunch break."

"Yes, Director Kim," Kwangsoo answered back politely, taking his things. He gave him and the CEO a ninety-degree bow before he left the conference room.

"Son," the CEO who was behind Kim Sunggyu spoke up in a low voice. The young man faced him.

"Sahjang-nim," Sunggyu politely answered, bowing his head.

"You do not have to be formal towards me, Sunggyu-ahdul. I am your father and you are my son," the man said, giving him a soft pat on his shoulders. "I am proud of you. You always put your best shot in everything."

"You have taught me a lot, Sahjang-nim," he humbly replied. "Without you, I will not be in this position. I will not be the man who you expect to be."

"No, Sunggyu-ahdul. You are in that position because you worked for it," Nam Donghwan murmured with his face turning serious. "You are not Director Kim Sunggyu because you are a Nam, but it's because you are a man who put his everything for our company. Thank you, my son. Thank you."

"Sahjang-nim."

"Sunggyu, I want to apologize for everything," Donghwan said apologetically. "I want you to be happy. I want you to reach for your own desires, but what did I do? I deprived you of your own happiness because I molded you to become our company's man. I am sorry. Please forgive me." He held his son's hands tightly.

"No, Appa. This is a part of my happiness. The company is also what makes me happy. If I disappoint you and the whole company, I don't deserve to be a Nam," Sunggyu expressed, giving his father an assuring smile.

Although a part of his father's statement was true, he knew to himself that Nam Corporation was the half of his life. Kim Sunggyu will never be Kim Sunggyu if not because of this company. It might sound boring that a man since his early twenties has been stuck in a tedious and burdensome professional life of being an executive director of an influential and powerful company, but he's into it. His heart, his mind and even his physical existence have been dedicated to the company itself though a part of him, too, has been constantly enduring the gloominess of being Kim Sunggyu, a man with big responsibilities.

"You deserve it, Sunggyu. You deserve to be a Nam. I am very lucky to have a kind son like you."

"No, Appa. You, Halmeoni, Harabeoji and Aunt are the kind ones for welcoming me as a part of the Nam," the young man worded. "Although Woohyun-dongsaeng and I are having conflict with each other, I am also thankful to him because his presence alone makes me happy."

"Sunggyu-ahdul, about your situation with your brother," his father sadly mumbled. "I... I hope you settle it... I don't... I don't think it's nice to see that your relationship is not going smoothly. You are siblings after all. I hope you can do a way for him to open up to you... just like the old times."

Upon hearing his father's words, deep inside his heart, a trail of pain attacked him. Even his father hurts because of his not-so-smooth relationship with Woohyun. Why can't they be the siblings who love each other like before? Why can't they even treat each other without the words of irony and dissing whenever they meet? Sunggyu knew that he's the one trying to reach his brother out, yet Woohyun seemed to have disliked it no matter what.

"Yes, Appa. I know it. As a matter of fact, for the past few weeks, I am trying to reach out to him, but... but it's no use. I do not know why he's being like that, but I hope the Woohyun I know will come back," Sunggyu sighed.

"Let us not give up. Let us not give up in hoping for that to become possible," CEO Nam Donghwan firmly encouraged. "I know it's my entire fault that he's being like that... It's my fault for being not the father he wants to have. Yet I will not give up. I will not give up on him and you shouldn't too, Sunggyu."

"Algesseumnida, Appa. I won't give up on him too," his son said with optimism. "I won't give up because I want to prove him that I deserve to be his brother. I won't give up. Not this time, Appa."

"Taeyeon-ssi, are you doing well with those cupcakes you're making?" A man who was in a pastel blue dress shirt and white pants, asked as he went behind the petite woman who had just placed a tray of molded cupcakes inside a large oven.

"Yes, Sir Woohyun. It's more than fine," she guaranteed, facing the man behind her. "No worries, I assure you."

He pouted his lips errantly, desperately whining in protest, "I have told you to drop the formalities when we're the only ones around. How can you easily forget that?"

"Ummm," she mumbled, tapping her chin with her fingers. "Mianhamnida, Woohyun-ssi. Did I offend you?"

He sighed and folded his arms. "No, it is okay. Your apology is enough, Taeyeon-ssi."

"Aicheoreom, huh?" She scoffed jokingly and smiled wryly. "Anyway, you've got a big oven here at your kitchen. Why didn't I notice that before?"

"I have just bought it last Tuesday," he answered straightly. "Because you bake nice cupcakes, I've decided that you are the first one who'll use it."

"Jeongmal?" She laughed. "You have bought it, yet the one who you want to use it first is me? Isn't that quite odd, Woohyun-ssi?"

"Nope, Taeyeon-ssi," he shook his head innocently. "That's not odd. I want you to make cupcakes for me."

"Ah, algesseoyo," responded Taeyeon who nodded twice, assenting that she understood what he said.

"By the way, I haven't visited Aunt Gongjoo, Uncle Ilbong and Sungjong for the past two weeks. The last time I visited was during the first week of this month."

"They have gone to Mokpo last Monday," she explained. "It's just that they did not inform me when they are coming back here at Seoul."

"I see. It's just a waste that I was not able to see them when I've gone there last Tuesday," Woohyun said, running a hand on his beautifully-styled hair. "I have visited my Halmeoni and she was the one who actually bought that oven for me at Mokpo."

"Really," she uttered in surprise. "But I guess it's merely a coincidence."

"Anyway, how long will it take for those cupcakes to be baked?" He questioned as he took a quick glance of his wristwatch.

"More or less thirty minutes," she estimated, letting her lips move in the left direction. "Yes, yes. Thirty minutes will do."

"Okay." He inhaled a deep breath. Woohyun broke into a smile and said, "Okay. Thirty minutes for the cupcakes, ten minutes for the preparation, thirty minutes for eating, twenty minutes for cleaning all of these 'cause we'll soon leave my apartment. The rest are waiting for us at the café."

"Yes, Manager Nam. I am fully aware of that," she answered as she gave him thumbs up.

[12:00 pm. La Tavola, Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea]

 

"So, how is life, Sunggyu? I've heard about your Hainan Construction Project," a blonde woman started a conversation before she took a sip on the Cabernet Sauvignon in her wine glass.

"You did, Woori?" He asked for a confirmation while slicing the soft beef on his porcelain plate. "It's fine. By June, we'll expect a 40% increase in our company's profit. All in all, life is going smoothly."

"Of course, I did," Woori assented, giving him a gentle nod. "Remember that I have had a vacation at Hainan for six weeks because my dad wanted me to visit my cousins who had just come back from Washington. Besides, news about Nam Corporation is bannered in major newspapers at Hainan."

"Yeah, you have left for six weeks without notifying me," Sunggyu scoffed in slight dismay. He paused from slicing the Prosciutto on his plate and gave her a serious look. "Yet I am thankful that you still haven't forgotten that you have left some people here in Seoul."

"Woah, the sarcasm is all over you, Director Kim Sunggyu," Woori humorously stated, shooting him a smile. "People? Or do you mean it's you? Yeah, be thankful that I did not forget you. Now, I am recompensing you with a lunch date, so don't feel irritated, 'kay?" She gave his left hand a soft touch.

"Lunch date? As far as I remember, you've said that you wanted me to treat you for lunch which I did," he sarcastically derided. "So it means this isn't compensation because it's my treat, right?"

"Sunggyu-ah," she pleaded childishly. "Why are you being hot-headed today? It is not like I did something grave. What have you eaten?"

'What exactly is happening to me?' He closed his eyes and when he opened them, he apologized, "I am sorry. It's just that my head hurts today. I am sorry, Woori." He knew the answer why. It's just that he could not admit it to himself.

"Is that so?" Woori released his hand from her touch. "You have said that everything's doing well, yet your face does not show that it is. Waeyo? Did something bad happen?"

"Something?" Sunggyu asked in a faltering voice. He shook his head twice in denial that something was wrong. "No, there isn't. There isn't. I am just... I am just... I am just tired. I am just stressed by work. For this week, I did a lot of things, and I’m just stressed."

"I am not fully convinced, Kim Sunggyu. A bad liar you are," his friend stated.

"No, it's true. I am just stressed out by work. I am sorry. But I guess I have to chill down a bit because I am unintentionally venting my stress to others," he excused sensibly.

"I am still not convinced, Kim Sunggyu," Woori coolly stated. "Do you want me to guess the reason why you're being like that?” She folded her arms.

"Guess? Guess—what?" Sunggyu questioned, pretending innocence in his voice.

"It's because..." She gave him a suspicious look. "It is because of someone."

"Someone?"

"Yes, someone," the woman assented. "It is someone who you are thinking about every single day."

"Someone who I am thinking about every single day?" Sunggyu wondered with his brows furrowing. He broke out into a soft laughter then he questioned in a challenging tone, "Then, who could that person be? Malhaebwa."

"Hmm," she hummed, thinking of what to answer. She gave him a look and answered, "I... I don't know... But I'll figure it out soon... Being a CSI-like person, I'll definitely figure it out soon. Watch and learn, Mr. Kim Sunggyu."

"Go on," he confidently stated. "Prove me that your guess is true and tell me who that person is."

"Wanna have a bet?" She challenged.

"Bet? Well, I only agree with a bet that has many benefits," Sunggyu said. "I only give my best shot if the winning prize is good. What's the prize then?"

"Aish! You really are a wise one, huh," she inwardly scoffed. ‘But I guess the answer is near me, so better watch out, Sunggyu. Kekeke.’

"Of course, a businessman like me knows how to think of possibilities. Weighing the benefits and consequences, that’s part of being a businessman."

"Tsh, alright, Mr. Businessman."

"Then what is it? Don't be a cliffhanger."

She thought about it for a few minutes and soon spoke up, "About the prize... Hmm... Let's see if you will let the chance of getting the prize of this bet slip out of your hand."

"That seems intriguing yet exciting." He moved his closer to her and asked, "Really? What is it? Tell me."

"Excited much, aren't you, Mr. Kim Sunggyu?" A smirk became visible on her gentle face. “Then, I’ll tell you the prize of winning this bet.” She brought her face closer and whispered something against his ear.

After the successful event last December, the café was expanded and from two to a three-storey establishment, all thanks to Chairman Nam Sunghee—the Nam household's matriarch, senior vice president of Nam Corporation and Nam Woohyun and Kim Sunggyu's paternal grandmother. Seeing how her grandson Woohyun handles the café properly, the renovation became the instant reward. She also commended him for being a great handler of the shop although it's not big as handling the company. Former president and now the second largest shareholder of the Nam Corporation, Nam Shinwoo, her husband and the grandfather of the two young Nam, also commended Woohyun for doing a job well done. Even Woohyun's parents, current CEO of Nam Corporation, Nam Donghwan and Nam Corporation's Foundation chairman, Nam Jisook did too.

The proof of the good performance of the café are the numerous food blogs online which featured and praised the foods and drinks served by the café and the quality of service that the staff members give to the customers—with some hailing as the next 'giant' café of the century. Definitely, Hope Café is improving as time passes by. To bring back the commendations he and the café in general received, Manager Nam Woohyun decided to increase the staff members' salary by three percent which made the latter feel happy, for an increase in the salary is a big thing for them.

"Annyeong hasimnikka, Sir Sunggyu," Baro cheerfully greeted as he opened the glass doors of the café. "Welcome to Hope Café!" He gave him a ninety-degree bow. "It has been months since you've visited here."

A pleasant yet busy afternoon was scene at the Hope Café. Being one of the most visited cafés at Cheonggu-dong, no wonder that customers drop by the shop to experience a top-caliber service from its hardworking and friendly staff members.

"Yeah, it's been months. Annyeong hasimnikka, Baro-ssi," Kim Sunggyu greeted back, giving him a bow. "Everyone's busy today. Anyway, where's Manager Nam?"

"It's nice to see you again, Sir Sunggyu. Anyway, Sir Woohyun is doing something at the garden," Junho who was cleaning a table with a clean rag, answered.

"At the garden?"

"Junho is right, Sunggyu-nim. Manager Nam is at the garden. Go check it out if there's something you need to tell him," affirmed the assistant manager who was assigned at the cashier.

"Thank you," Sunggyu politely said, giving them a smile. "I'll be heading to the garden now."

"Are you sure you're going to help me in cutting the weeds, Sir?" Taeyeon asked while watering some plants.

"That's why I am here, Taeyeon-ssi," he straightly answered, folding his arms. "I will not wear this staff member's uniform if I am not sure that I will cut the weeds."

"Algesseoyo," she said, closing the water hose and handing him a pair of garden scissors. "You may do so as you please, Sir Woohyun."

"Gomawo," he mumbled as he started cutting the weeds of the plants. "This is actually my favorite hobby during my childhood years."

"I see, Sir. No wonder that you seem to be very expert in doing such thing," Taeyeon stated as she continued watering the plants. "By the way, I have heard that Yoseob-ssi went home by nine o'clock because he's sick. He asked Mr. Bong's permission because we're at your apartment earlier."

"Mr. Bong informed me about that. Well, I hope he gets well soon. However, I'm kind of problematic now because he left."

"Waeyo, Sir? What is the problem with his absence?"

He sighed and explained, "Yesterday, I have requested him to assist me at Hongdae to get sacks of coffee beans. But because he left, there's no one who'll assist me there. Unfortunately, today, all of you here who are present are busy, so I guess I'll have to go there alone."

Without a single trace of hesitation, Taeyeon volunteered, "If you want, I'll go with you in place of Yoseob-ssi. We've gone there together once, right?"

"But... are you sure with that?" He asked in disbelief. "You know that a woman like you should not... Aigoo... You shouldn't be carrying sacks. You are a woman, okay? Never mind that."

"Waeyo, Sir Woohyun? There's nothing wrong with that," Taeyeon plainly stated. "You said before that a woman like me should not be exempted with tasks done by men."

[~]

"So, what are your skills? Do you know how to drive? We need delivery personnels to bring the stocks of coffee. Can you carry ten sacks of coffee, flour, and sugar? You know that if everyone is busy and you happen to be the only one who is available, you will be the one to do those kind of things. There are no exceptions even if you are a girl. Do you know how to fix light bulbs and fix sinks? Do you know how to water plants properly? Do you know how to clean? Scrub floors and toilets? You know, being a staff here needs versatility. If you cannot do those things. Then, you are not qualified here! You may now leave!"

She was shocked on how he bombarded her questions.

Sunggyu hissed, "Woohyun, why are you asking her such things? She is not applying as utility worker here."

Soon, Sunggyu apologized in behalf of his brother's rough behavior, "I am sorry for my brother's nonsensical questions."

Woohyun asked in sarcasm, "Ei! Miss Kim, I am asking you!"

She cleared and answered him as polite as she still can, "I know how to do all of it. I worked as a plumber, utility worker, dishwasher, cook, sales lady, janitress, stuntwoman and deliverywoman before."

Her reply made him flustered once again in embarrassment. He was just stupefying himself in front of them, but his stupidity did not stop.

Woohyun tried to muster his remaining 'dignity', "And you were a stuntwoman before? You must be a bit violent. What if you punch a customer when he/she yells at you? As what I have said earlier, I extremely abhor violence!"

[~]

"I know, I know," Woohyun said in irritation. "But this time it's different. It's different. Taeyeon-ssi, stop insisting, eo? Aish! I shouldn't I have told you."

Pausing from what she's doing, Taeyeon insisted, "Why not? We've gone there before, and as far as I remember I have—"

[~]

After finishing bringing the 3 sacks out, she dusted off her hands.

"Oh! You are back. It is good that you are strong. I guess hyung's choice to hire you is not bad after all." His voice sounded too good to be true. It was rather unusual of him to say those kind of things, for he hated Taeyeon so much.

He added, "I guess you are still tired. My bad! I have not given you much rest. That is ungentlemanly of me~ Sorry."

"A~Ani~ I am fine. I have just rested."

"No, I think you should go on and rest." He suggested as he pushed her slightly out of the warehouse.

"A~Ani~ I do not want to rest, Sir." She declined.

Woohyun said, "Ok, If you say so." He removed his hands from her shoulders. "So, should you carry a sack now?"

She flimsily nodded her head and started carrying a sack. She suddenly felt something different. The sack was unusually heavy.

"We are running out of time. Can you move a little bit faster?" He grinned evilishly.

Taeyeon was flustered because of the unusual heaviness of the sack. It was pretty much obvious who made it. She came up with a realization that Woohyun did something 'odd' to make things hard for her.

He said, "Come on, Kim!"

Taeyeon tried to endure the heaviness, but her feet accidentally stepped into something which made her fall.

He uttered, "Wa~Wait!"

She mumbled, "Wahh!"

Woohyun wrapped his arms around her waist in order to catch her, but both of them fell.

Woohyun who was on top of her could no longer hold his laughter. "I thought you are strong!"

She did not utter a single word to him, but instead gave him a glare. Woohyun stopped laughing because he felt uncomfortable with their 'position'. He gulped when he realized that their faces were just a centimeter away from each other.

"Sir, would you mind if you will stand up now? You are actually heavy." She gently looked away and snapped him out of his erted 'thoughts'.

"So~so~Sorry." Her words made his face flushed with redness, and he stood up in order to hide it. He was hesitating if he would help her to stand, but she managed to before he could offer a help.

"Aigoo! You are actually not strong!" He laughed once again as he held his stomach.

She secretly opened the sack and saw rocks in it. She questioned as she showed him the rocks, "Do the sacks naturally have rocks in it?"

Woohyun stopped laughing. "I~I don't know." He denied.

She just took a deep breath and removed the rocks, and then she tried carrying the sack.

"Ouch~" She mumbled as she continued walking.

Woohyun noticed reddish cuts on her wrists. He thought that she was probably injured when they fell awhile ago. "It is not my fault." He shook his head. In his head, he was in self-denial, but he slowly felt regretful for the mess he had done towards Taeyeon a while ago.

[~]

"Aigoo! Aigoo! Don't mention it, please," he hissed, rubbing his temples in frustration. "I know I was cruel during that time, and I.... I don't want to repeat the same mistake again... never ever. So please, Taeyeon-ssi, stop insisting!"

He released a heavy breath. The way he said such words reflected his inner feelings—guilt and irritation. He was not exasperated to Taeyeon's insistence, but to himself, particularly, to his bad treatment towards her before which she did not deserve.

"Sir Woohyun," Taeyeon gently uttered, carefully looking at his downtrodden reaction. "You know... There's nothing that you should be worried about. The Sir Woohyun I know back then was a grumpy man who seemed to have kept a grudge against the violent woman who punched his 'God-like' face at a Pojangmacha. But now, he's different. He turned to a generous and nice man who even let me use his newly-bought oven from Mokpo." She beamed a smile on her face.

'Omo... Kim Taeyeon, you really a different woman. How many times did I say to myself that you are different? You are different like the stars encircling the universe and I'm falling and falling for you each passing day. How I wish I can say those words in front of you.' Woohyun became silent, stunned with her words. His heart trembled in a beautifully painful pace as his eyes landed a gaze on her beautiful face. 'How long should I suppress this feeling of mine? I know that I deny it to myself before, but now, I am confirming it myself.... I am confirming that I like you very much. Joahaeyo, Kim Taeyeon. Joahaeyo.'

"Kim Taeyeon," he whispered.

She gave him a plain look and asked, "Sir Woohyun, what is it?"

'Woohyun, there is a right time. Everything has its right time. Don't rush.' His soft gaze hardened as he crossed his arms. "Okay, okay. Since you've flattered me with your rosy words, I'll let you accompany me at Hongdae. But..."

"But what?"

"Didn't... Didn't I tell you just to drop off the formalities when we're the only ones around?" Woohyun strictly worded. "How can you easly forget that?"

"About that," she sheepishly answered. "We're at the workplace, Sir Woohyun. I do not want to be casual with you since we're at work."

"Aish! Arasseo, arasseo," he mocked in irritation. "Ppalli! Ppalli! We'll head to Hongdae later, so finish your work now, eo?"

"Hot-tempered again," Taeyeon mumbled, pouting her lips slightly. "Nae, nae. I will, Sir Woohyun."

"Hot—what? Did you say something, Ms. Kim?"

"Ah, ani—animnida, Sir. I just said that it's so hot today," Taeyeon excused, feigning an innocent look.

"Tsh... Do you think I am deaf?" He mocked as he continued cutting the weeds. "Continue your work now, Milady."

"Milady? Psh… Nae, nae."

‘So it means to say that she met him before we’ve met. I got it now.' Watching from a distance, Kim Sunggyu let out a sigh and started walking back. He felt jealous. He felt jealous that Woohyun and Taeyeon have become closer than the last time he saw them on December. Also mentioning that he discovered that both Woohyun and Taeyeon have met even before they did. No wonder Woohyun seemed to have known her during the time she was applying as a café staff back then.

Remembering how his brother despised her so much to the extent he said that he’ll do everything in any means for Taeyeon to be kicked out of the café. Now, Sunggyu has figured every piece now. Woohyun might have lied by pretending that he did not know her, but his voice was faltering and defensive. How can he, his brother did not notice it? He has become a fool not to notice the fact that Woohyun knows her somehow, for at least, they have met once before she became a café staff member. But what’s overflowing inside his heart was jealousy. He felt jealous. He felt jealous not just because of the fact that Woohyun met her first even before he did, but because he and Taeyeon are getting closer with each other as time passes by. He knows he’s being left behind by his brother and that’s the cause of the pain inside his heart and mind, yet Sunggyu is struggling with self-denial which makes him feel worse.

It's been months since he last visited the café. The last time he went there was December. That was also the last time he saw Taeyeon. Though he was able to communicate with her during his birthday via phone and not to forget the fact that he received a seaweed soup from her, Sunggyu was not able to keep on touch with her in person. That communication was only once and it was not repeated again. Why? He was busy with the finalization of the Hainan Construction Project and back-to-back meetings with various investors hindered him to settle some personal matters. Nevertheless, it's his fate—his unfair fate to be someone who'll only have the grip of his position, influence and wealth, but not the heart of the woman he sincerely loves.

"So what is it that I can do for you, Sunggyu-hyung?" Woohyun asked. He was sitting on the black high-end chair inside his office while Sunggyu took a seat on the white couch on the side. "I still have twenty minutes before I leave for Hongdae. Now, speak up."

"Sahjang-nim wants you to read what's inside," Sunggyu straightly answered, handing his brother a brown envelope.

Woohyun rose another question saying, "Did you ask him what's inside this envelope?" The younger man took the envelope.

"No, I did not," his brother replied plainly. "As a matter of fact, I do not have any idea what's inside. I received it last night from Sahjang-nim and he told me not to open it because you should only be the one who must see what's inside."

"Appa did say that, jeongmal? What could this be?" Woohyun wondered, apparently feeling intrigued. "Well, I wonder what's inside. If he didn't have any intention to tell you what's inside this envelope, he shouldn't have bothered you just to give this to me personally. Sending it via delivery express is more convenient, right?"

“Kindly read it later.” Sunggyu stood up from his seat and stated, "That's all, Woohyun. I'll go ahead now."

"Wait... Won't be waiting for the lunch I have asked my staff to prepare for you?" Woohyun asked as he stood up from his seat. "You know... You can take lunch here and we'll discuss what's inside this envelope. It must be something you're familiar with."

"Animnida. I have already taken my lunch. Still and all, thank you for the offer," his brother answered.

"Ah, algesseoyo," Woohyun said, nodding his head. "You must have an appointment at the company, right?"

"Nae, I have. Should you have any concern, you may drop by Sahjang-nim's office. I do not think I should be the one whom you should consult regarding whatever document he gave you. I guess it's a matter that you both should discuss," Sunggyu stated in his composed yet stoic tone.

He wanted to have more time with his brother, yet a part of him wanted to avoid hypocrisy—hypocrisy that tells him that he's not affected how close Woohyun and Taeyeon are. Seeing his brother any longer will make him feel worse. He knew that he promised his father to make it up with Woohyun, but his feet have the urge to escape—escape from the suffocating place where he breathes the same air with Taeyeon and Woohyun. He knew he's going crazy. He's going crazy in love. His inner self reasoned out that he can still Woohyun next time and spend more time with him, but not at the moment. Not at that moment that he's not in the right condition to deal with his brother who he's jealous of.

"You're right, hyung," the younger man assented, giving his brother a smile. "Anyway, take care." He bowed his head.

"You too," Sunggyu answered, bowing his head as well.

Before Sunggyu was able to leave the office, low sounds of knocks were heard.

"Come in," Woohyun stated as he sat back on his chair.

Sunggyu opened the door since he's leaving Woohyun's office.

"Sir, it's—" A gentle voice welcomed Sunggyu's ear upon opening the door. It was Kim Taeyeon's voice. The reaction drawn on her face was surprise although she knew beforehand that he was there inside.

Sunggyu was surprised, too, yet he did not want to show it. His eyes saw the angelic face of the woman he likes. But seeing her gave a pang inside his chest. He was speechless as if glaciers stabbed his throat to prevent him from uttering any word.

"Annyeong haseyo," Taeyeon politely greeted as she gave him a bow.

He bowed his head too, but without saying a word. Sunggyu paved a way for her to come inside the manager's office before he took his quick leave.

When the door was shut, Taeyeon went towards the manager's desk, saying, "Sir Woohyun, the one staff from the supplier's warehouse at Hongdae called."

"What about the call?"

"Mr. Bong who took the call in behalf you because you're in the middle of your conversation with Sir Sunggyu, said that we should not go there today," she explained.

"Why did they say that?"

"There was a delay with the shipment of coffee beans from where they import their supply, but after five days, the supplier assured that a truck from Hongdae will deliver the coffee beans here at our café, so we'll no longer need to go there," Taeyeon answered in detail.

"Is that so?" Woohyun murmured, leaning his back against the chair. "Thank you. Thank you for informing me. You may now go back to work."

"Algesseumnida, Sir Woohyun," she replied, giving him a ninety-degree bow.

"Hayan byeolbichi I kkaman eodumi. Jeo meolliseo nal mireonaego itjjyo," she hummed a song while carrying a black trash bag outside the café. “Hwanhan misoro geudaereul baraman bwado. Nan ireoke jakkuman meoreojyeo gayo.”

Taeyeon made her exit at the back door. It was three o'clock in the afternoon. The temperature was quite hot, oozing the summer vibe of June.

"It's hot today,” she whispered as she put the trash bag inside a green trash can. She wiped the beads of sweat that were dripping on her forehead with a white cloth she took from her pocket. "It's really summer time. The temperature is unusually hot these days."

She was supposed to enter the back door, but she saw a white car from a distance, so she was stopped from her tracks.

The car was not the one which caught her eyes, but it was a man who was standing outside the vehicle. The messy sable hair, the slender legs and gentle face.... She definitely knew him. He was wearing a red plaid polo shirt with its sleeves slightly folded and a pair of white pants.

"I know, I know," the man said in his signature husky voice on the line. "I'll be there, Woori-ah. Tomorrow at twelve in the afternoon." He was talking to someone over the phone.

'So he hasn't left yet.' Taeyeon watched the man who was busy with his phone. It was Kim Sunggyu.

"Yes, Woori-ah. Count on me," Sunggyu answered as a smile was formed on his face. "A lunch date... but it's your treat, eo?"

Clearly hearing him from where she was standing, Taeyeon's eyes widened. 'Woori? Wait, she's—'

[~]

"Kim Sunggyu!"

The moment was interrupted when a voice calling out for the man's name was heard. Both Taeyeon and Sunggyu faced the person whose voice suddenly came out from nowhere. They were surprised the moment their eyes saw a long-haired woman who was in an apricot trench coat and white pink skirt. She was brightly flashing a big smile on her face as she went towards them. Taeyeon took five steps backward in order to give them a space to talk with each other.

"You.." Sunggyu cluelessly mumbled as he tried to familiarize himself who that girl was.

She said cheerfully, "It has been a while, isn't it? Don't tell me that you have already forgotten me."

"I am sorry.. May I know who you are, Miss?" The man asked.

"My bad! You must have really forgotten me, Gyu hamster!" She said as she poked his left shoulder with her finger.

"You..you are.." His eyes widened when he finally came out of a realization who the woman standing in front of them was.

"Oh.. So, do you remember me now, Jeonju fellow?"

 

A minute of silence filled the atmosphere.

 

"Go.. Go Woori?"

"That is right."

"Oh.. It is you.." He mumbled weakly. "Woori-ah."

"Thank Goodness! You can still remember me. I have missed you. I have really missed you, Sunggyu-ah." The woman said as she locked him in a longing and warm embrace. "It has been a while since we have seen each other. You have really grown up now. I have really missed you."

[~]

'Yeah, she is that woman. The beautiful and elegant woman I’ve seen before...' She came out with a realization who the person he's talking with over the phone. Like a flash of a lightning, Taeyeon felt how her inner senses became weak for an unknown reason.No matter how hard she asks herself why, her mind could not think of any reason to justify the disappointment she’s feeling. Her mind, her heart—everything was blank.

Finishing the call, Sunggyu bid his friend a goodbye, "Nae, nae. Annyeong. Take care."

After hanging up, he closed his phone and kept it inside his pants' pocket. Unintentionally, his eyes saw a woman who took a broom and a dust pan from a corner and started cleaning the area. He silently watched her. ‘Is that her? Yeah, this is not a delusion. I am near the Hope Café. Yeah, yeah.’

'I should just clean than think of nonsensical things. Aigoo... What's happening to me? So what if he likes her? It's not like I should care about it. He has his own life and I should not waste my time giving a single care about it.' She shook off her head, trying to wake her senses up. She should not care about who Sunggyu likes since it's none of her business. If he likes the Go Woori girl, it's his choice and she must not be affected about it. 'She's beautiful and she looks smart. A girl like her definitely suits a man like Kim Sunggyu.'

But on the other hand, she thought about what Sunggyu almost said to her if she did not stop him from saying so...

[~]

"Sunggyu-ssi, I am so—" Taeyeon wanted to apologize. She knew that it was too careless of her to lose that necklace which was given by him during her birthday few months ago.

“Sssh. No need to apologize. It’s alright.” He assured in a soft voice before he turned her around to face him. “Seeing how you look for it as if it’s something important to you is more than enough to make me happy.”

“Sunggyu-ssi, I am very sorry.” The woman apologetically said.

“I told you that there is no need to apologize, right?”

"But—"

“Never mind that. Anyway, let me ask you something.”

“Something? What is it?”

“It is about..” He cleared his throat before he continued what he was saying, “It is about us. Tell me. Why do you avoid me all the time? Did I do or say something wrong for you to be like that? Why are you avoiding me?”

Speechless and stunned with his questions, the woman’s eyes widened. She did not know what to answer. Why does she treat him coldly? Why does she treat him as if he’s invisible? Unfortunately, even she, herself does not know why she treats him that way.

"I don’t—"

“What’s wrong?” Sunggyu asked, desperately searching for an answer. “Tell me why, Taeyeon-ssi. I want to know why.”

Not knowing what to answer to his questions, Taeyeon thriftily answered back, pulling off a cold reaction her face as she looked away from his judging gazes, “Nothing. Please don’t mind it.”

“Huh?”

Taking a quick glance of her watch, she knew that she should leave. Leaving will be the best solution because staying there will not help her, but make her feel worse instead. She excused as she looked at him straightly, “Sunggyu-ssi, I have to go now. Thank you for returning back this necklace, by the way.” She turned back and started walking away from him.

Suddenly, a strong arm harshly held her right arm, preventing her from leaving. Taeyeon faced the man and her eyes widened in anxiety. She mumbled as she tried removing his arm, "What do you want, Sung—"

Sunggyu seriously muttered, tightening his grip on her arm, “Why are you leaving? I’m still talking to you!”

“What do you want?”

“What I want?” He darkly stated before he pulled her towards him. “Do you really want to know? THEN, I’LL SHOW YOU!”

“Sunggyu-ssi, what are—“

Her words were suddenly cut off the moment he pulled her closer towards him. He roughly pushed her face near him until his lips covered her pale lips. She was greatly terrified as she felt the numbness all over her body. Taeyeon felt how her heartbeat raced with mixed feelings. It felt different. It made her feel dizzy. To prevent her from breaking the kiss, Sunggyu tightly wrapped his other arm around her back and pushed her closer to him, deepening their kiss.

After a while, Taeyeon finally regained her consciousness from the reality. She slowly opened her eyes and removed her hands on his shoulders.

Soon, the moment they parted ways, both of them took the time to out for air. He mumbled as he watched her back away from him. “Taeyeon-ssi. I am so—"

When he was about to apologize and explain, his words were immediately halted as he saw how her eyes turned cold—even colder than what she used to have.

“Just think of what happened as nothing. No need to apologize. I'll forget it soon anyway."The woman monotonely stated before she started walking away from him.

"Taeyeon-ssi." Sunggyu said as he held her left arm tightly. "Let me explain. I know it's too sudden, but I love—"

"Stop it. You are just confused with your feelings. I hope I won't hear such things ever again." Taeyeon stoically stated before she bowed her head and slowly released her arm from his grip. "If you wouldn't mind, I'll excuse myself from you, Sunggyu-ssi." She started walking away, leaving him behind.

[~]

The intent of those words and that action were different. A part of her told her that Kim Sunggyu wanted to tell her that he likes her. She knew it was not a dream, yet there's a great possibility that she falsely assumed that his words were sincere at that moment.

'Perhaps, he's confused at that time. Of course, he would not like a girl like me. Who am I? A mere damsel in distress... A woman like me is nothing but a sort of a crap. Probably, he's being nice and friendly to me because he pities me... He pities my situation.' Taeyeon quickened her pace as she shook her head again, hoping to shrug off the unwanted thoughts inside her mind. 'Heol... What am I saying? Who cares if I am a damsel in distress? It's not like I want.... I want him to like me... Stop being a paranoid, Kim Taeyeon. You only love your work, okay? Don't think of anything else. But.... what exactly is this feeling right now? What's happening to me? Why am I affected right now? Wae?'

In the midst of cleaning the area, the phone inside her pocket vibrated. She paused for a while and placed the dust pan and broom on the side. Taeyeon quickly dug out her phone from her pocket.

Clearing , Taeyeon spoke up on the line, “Yobosaeyo? Kim Taeyeon speaking.”

“Taeng, this is your Eomma. I am sorry to interrupt you while you’re working.”

“Ah, Eomma,” she stated as a smile was formed on her face. “No, I am just cleaning the area outside. Anyway, what is the purpose of your call?”

“I want to apologize for not telling anything about our trip here at Mokpo. I am very sorry, Taeng. You were busy, so I was not able to tell you, not even Sungjong nor Ilbong did.”

“No, gwaechanha. I do not mind it,” Taeyeon assured, letting out a chuckle. “I hope you are doing well there. Please take care of yourselves.”

“Nae, arasseoyo. By the way, do you still keep on touch with your friend?”

“Friend? Do you mean In Na-unnie?”

“Yeah, I know that she is your best friend, but I am talking about another person. What I am referring to is Nam Woohyun-ssi,” her mother answered.

“Woohyun-ssi? Ah, Woohyun-ssi,” Taeyeon said softly, nodding her head. “Yes, we do. What about it, Eomma?”

“How’s he doing? Is he fine? Does he eat three times a day? Is he stressing himself? I haven’t talked to him for ages now.”

“He’s fine. Woohyun-ssi is doing fine,” she guaranteed with certainty. “He’s doing well in his work and he does not forget to eat three times a day. In fact, I always remind him not to stress himself because that’s what you told me to tell him.”

“That is a relief to hear, Taeng,” her mother said in relief. “I am glad that he’s doing well and I hope he always does.”

"Yes, Eomma. His café is doing well. I guess he's becoming more determined because of it," Taeyeon said. A genuine smile was formed on her face.

Hearing her boss’ name gave her a sense of happiness. Why? It’s because he’s starting to become the different Woohyun from before. The nagger, bossy, arrogant and narcissistic boss she had always despised, everything changed without her noticing it. "Don't worry too much about him. He'll visit you once you come at Seoul."

"How about you? Are you doing well too?"

"I am fine as always, Eomma," she stated as a matter of fact. "Do not worry too much about me. If any problem arises, I will call you immediately."

"How about Mr. Baek? He and his men broke into our house before we left for Mokpo. Did he come back during the last few days?"

"Mr. Baek and his men? They did not. Why? Did they do something to you? Did they hurt you? I was not able to come home at that time because I had to settle some work matters," she answered with worry trailing in her voice. "Malhaebwa. Did those men do something? You should have told me beforehand."

"Anieyo, anieyo," Gongjoo assured, hushing her daughter's worry off. "They just asked for the payment of the money that your Appa was indebted to them."

"After Mr. Gong, Mr. Shin, Mr. Kwak, Mr. Soo and Mrs. Hwang, now the only problem we have is Mr. Baek and his minions. How much money do they need?" Her face hardened as her left fist formed a ball.

"We'll do something about it soon. Geokjung hajima, Taeng."

"But Eomma, how can I just stay calm if something bad is happening to you? Malhaebwa! How much do they need?" Taeyeon whined in protest.

"It's.... it's 1, 567, 789 won," Gongjoo guiltily admitted. "I am sorry, Taeng. I know we are a big burden to you."

"MWO? That big?" She asked in disbelief. "But.... but where did Appa use that?"

"He... He used that to pay your Bongdo's problem with the bank where he used their house as a collateral to pay his daughter's tuition fee last March and the medical expenses of his father-in-law," her mother explained. "You know that he and your Aunt Saeyi are both unemployed. We owe them a lot, so your Appa extended his help, for Bongdo and his family's house at Incheon not to be litigated. Although your Appa is no longer jobless, his salary is not that big that's why it left him no choice, but to borrow money from Mr. Baek."

"You should have told me, Eomma! You should have told me, so I could have done something," she grumbled.

"But you have already given us your whole salary, so we did not want to burden you anymore, Taeng," Gongjoo explained.

"Eomma, you know that I'll do everything for you, right? Aunt Saeyi and Uncle Bongdo are the only relatives we have, and I know that we owe them a lot," Taeyeon said. "You should have told me that they're having a problem, so at least, I could have done something that will not put us to risk."

"That's what I told your Appa, but his insistence was so strong. Mianhamnida, Taeyeon-ah," the old woman apologized.

"Gwaechanhayo," she answered in assurance. "But if something like that happens next time, please tell me. You can always count on me, Eomma."

"Nae,Taeyeon-ah. We'll inform you. I am sorry again. Anyway, I'll call you once we're back from Mokpo."

"Yes, Eomma. I'll be waiting for your call," she said.

"I'll hang up now. Take care. Saranghae, my daughter. Annyeong."

Before hanging up the phone, she gave her last words saying, "Nado saranghaeyo, Eomma. Annyeong."

She took a deep breath as she kept her phone inside her pocket. Taeyeon continued what she's doing earlier.

'Risk? Money? Is she having a trouble right now?' Watching her from a distance, Sunggyu was drowned in deep thoughts. 'I hope she's not. Should I ask her? Perhaps, I can do something to help her.'

Yet his supposed approach was scrapped off the moment someone's presence became visible.

"Taeyeon-ssi," a man who came out of the back door called out for her name. It was the manager who welcomed her eyes.

"Sir Woohyun," asked her when she lifted her head up, "What can I do for you?"

"Busy with cleaning?"

"Not really, but I'll be finished soon, Sir," she responded politely.

"Good," he said, his eyes focused on her while tapping his chin. "So maybe you can assist me later with some stuff inside my office, can't you?"

"Assist you with what, Sir Woohyun?" The woman wondered in curiosity.

"I'll just tell you later," Woohyun answered, giving her left shoulder a touch. "Once you finish that, come to my office and I'll tell you what we'll do. Arasseo?"

"Uh, arasseoyo," Taeyeon affirmed, responding him with a nod of assurance.

"Now, keep up the good work. I'll be expecting you later inside my office," he stated. "I'll go back now inside, eo?" He beamed his signature alluring smile before he turned back.

"Sir Woohyun," she said softly, letting her right hand stop him from leaving. "Hold on."

He faced her and questioned, "What is it?"

"Your face," Taeyeon murmured, lifting her toes to reach his height. "Too much perspiration... It's too hot today, so no wonder." She pulled the white towel draping over the man's shoulder and wiped the beads of sweat covering his face.

"Ah, yeah. It is.... too hot today," Woohyun awkwardly assented while watching how she gently wiped the corners of his face. 'I am feeling hot right now because of you. Ya! I can't breathe! Neo ttaemune, Kim Taeyeon. Aigoo! I am going crazy because of you.'

"This year's summer is pretty much hotter than the previous years," observed her who put down her tiptoeing feet the moment she finished wiping the corners of his face. "Please drink eight glasses of water every day to keep you hydrated." She handed him back the towel.

'Seeing you rehydrates and dehydrates me, Milady. Omona! Your effect on me becomes stronger and stronger!' He obediently gave her a nod and answered, "Yes, I will always bear that in mind."

"That is a relief to hear, Sir," she stated and gestured him to go back inside. "Go back inside now and once I finish this, I'll drop by your office." She shot him a smile.

"Yeah," he shyly responded as he made his entrance inside the back door. 'Hooh. I thought I'll lose my sanity there.’

Indeed, Kim Taeyeon’s effect on him has been going stronger and stronger as time passes by. Unlike before that he could control how his heart thump painfully with an ebb of thrill and overflowing feelings, Nam Woohyun, at the moment, if not because of the ing fact of being a boss to his employee, will no longer able to get a grip of himself because of his growing feelings for her.

"What could that thing be?" Taeyeon asked herself as she continued cleaning the area. "It must be something important, I guess."

On the other hand, dejected, Sunggyu who watched the scene went inside his car. 'I should leave now. I am being bothered by too much things. Taeyeon does not need me because Woohyun can help him. He'll be there for her I'm sure.'

Once inside his car, he closed the door and started the engine. He immediately left the area. How he wished that he could also drive away the pain of jealousy and insecurity. It was damn painful. But he's aware that he's being unreasonable. Why in the world he's jealous seeing Taeyeon and Woohyun being close with each other? It's not like he can't be close with her. It's not like they can't talk to each other casually just because he's into her. If his brother likes to court her, he could do so. He keeps on repeating this mantra all over again. But no matter how hard Sunggyu tries not to feel jealous, his heart does—his ing heart does. The thoughts of Taeyeon being with his brother give him paranoia. Indeed, his love for her turned him nuts, but he won't give in easily. Not during the moment he's already a lovesicked man who wishes that his love will be requited somehow by the woman he loves. Kim Sunggyu hates losing, especially now that it is about the happiness that will give a color to his sullen and boring life. But he needs to contemplate his next step even if it will include avoiding Taeyeon to ease his paranoid and hopeless romantic self and make his plans possible.

"Sir Woohyun," Taeyeon softly called out. Her eyes were wandering around the manager's office. She initially did not want to barge inside until she realized the no response from the manager who she assumed to be there, waiting for her.

"Sir Woohyun, I am sorry for barging in here, but you're not responding," she said while looking around, in search for him. "Sir Woohyun, where are you?"

Seeing that he's out of nowhere, Taeyeon let out a sigh before she decided to check if he's in the restroom. 'Don't tell me he's hiding inside the restroom.' Once again, she heaved a sigh. She cast four knocks against the door, however, hearing no response from him, she held the doorknob and twisted it.

'Oh, it is not locked. Joesonghamnida, Sir Woohyun. I'll just have to check whether or not you're inside.' With widened eyes, Taeyeon slowly opened the door. Much to her surprise, the presence of Nam Woohyun did not appear before her vision.

"He's not here. Where could he be?" she murmured as she closed the door of the restroom.

'He left. Hayy. I took long because I ran an errand for Mr. Bong. Perhaps, he waited for me, but he left because I took too long.’ She pouted her lips in disappointment.

Just when she was about to leave, the phone inside her pocket vibrated. She immediately dug it out of her pocket and opened it. She received a text message from Nam Woohyun saying,

"Hello! Milady, I apologize if I left early. I have to discuss some matters with my father. Don't mind what I have told you earlier because I already settled it. Thank you and take care!"

'It's confirmed that Sir Woohyun left already. Hmm. Never mind. I guess I have to go back to work now.' After reading the message, she kept back the phone inside her pocket. She heard a number of knocks on the door. 'Someone's knocking.'

Just when she was about to leave the office, the voice of someone resonated in her ears saying, "Woohyun-ah, I came in because you're not responding when I knocked outside. I came back to get my wallet that I—"

Facing the person who has just entered the office, "I am sorry, but Sir Woohyun has just le—" She became taken aback upon realizing who it was.

The man, too, was surprised upon seeing her presence inside his brother's office. His gentle reaction turned stoic seeing her before his eyes.

"An.. Annyeong haseyo. It's you again, Su.. Sunggyu-ssi," she was literally stammering with her words, but she managed to somehow sound polite. Taeyeon gave him a ninety-degree bow. "I am sorry, but Sir Woohyun is not around at the moment."

He plainly bowed his head as he took the wallet on the couch. Instantly eschewing her soft gazes, he cleared his throat before he spoke up, "I don't mind it. I just came back to get the wallet I left here." Sunggyu lifted his head and met her eyes again.

"How are you?" Taeyeon dared to break the ice by starting a conversation. "How... How's life?"

The man gave her a plain nod and thriftily responded, "Fine as usual."

"By... by the way, Aunt Haera called me... and asked if... you're doing well... You know... with work," Taeyeon stated, trying to sound calm. 'Calm down, Kim Taeyeon.'

"She checked on me this morning, so I told her about it already," Sunggyu answered straightly.

His voice was dry and his gazes were emotionless and his coldness immediately reached her senses. A trail of disappointment attacked her like a splash of water on her face. Nonetheless, she managed to feign a smile and a calm reaction on her face, easing up the disappointment that was bothering her.

"Ah, algesseumnida," she murmured, with awkwardness sandwiching her voice. She nodded."That is a relief then. I am glad that you’re doing well."

Without saying a word, he gave her a bow, signaling that he'll be leaving the office. She nodded, indicating that she comprehended what he’s trying to do.

"Annyeong," the woman softly said, bowing her head as well. “Take care, Sunggyu-ssi,”

Without further ado, Sunggyu stormed out of the office, leaving her behind. As the door shut, she let out a big sigh. The fake smile on her face faded instantly like a red lipstick wiped away by a piece of tissue.

Why did she feel disappointed? She was in search for an answer. Why did she feel bad seeing the coldness in his eyes and hearing the dryness of his tone? She felt hurt, yet she did not know why. Taeyeon was not dumb not to sense that he was avoiding her. Was he being cold because of her? She wondered. Though she wanted to erase the fact that what she felt was disappointment, she could barely do so because it affected her a lot. Yet who's she in his life? Well, she's nothing but the rude woman who would usually treats the kind Kim Sunggyu coldly and says not-so-positive things towards him. It's likely possible that she's having the bitter taste of the backlash she did to him. A part of her wanted to see the kind and friendly Sunggyu from before. But it's all her doing. Who's she to wish for that after all the things she did to him? There was even a time she questioned him why he was being kind towards her. Probably, the man has already woken up from the reality that being with her is tiresome.

She does not deserve his kindness. She never did and Taeyeon admits it herself. Wishing to see the old him only means that she's swallowing back the words she said before and that's a painful stab on her pride. The only way to mend her pained pride is to pretend that nothing's wrong and to act unaffected as usual. Not a single part of Kim Taeyeon's dictionary is someone who pushes herself towards someone in desperation. If someone avoids her, she returns the favor by doing the same. So the feelings are mutual, aren't they?

"Yes, Sano-kun. I have already emailed the strategic plan of our project,"