Genre: Angst, Fluff, Smut, CEO! Seungcheol au, Husband! Seungcheol au, Wife! Reader au, Music Teacher! Reader au, Arranged Marriage au, College Sweetheart au, Exes to Lovers au
Synopsis: When you are arranged married to the man, whose heart you had broken years ago, even dreaming about mending things seems next to impossible when he has been holding grudge for all these only to return it to you tenfold.
Warnings (specific to this part): suggestive, crying, profanities, love blooms, mentions of infidelity (doesn't happen to though), mention of alcohol consumption, betrayal, rock bottom, italics represents occurrences in past
Word Count: 6.4k
TAGLIST FOR THIS SERIES IS CLOSED!
Banner credits to my baby @hoeforhao <3
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Teaser | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 |
Seungcheol is distressed. He thinks something is wrong with you. Though he had dismissed all the previous occurrences, he can't do it anymore. You're distant nowadays. You don't kiss him goodbyes. You don't say the 'I love you's. You're always ditching him at any chance given. You don't let him sneak into your sheets.
The inseparable godly campus couple are barely seen together nowadays. The rumours are being spread. Some are worried, some are happy. Though you both had no secrets, Seungcheol still thinks you must have your own reasons if you're keeping something upto yourself. He tries his best to be patient and waits for you to come back because he trusts you.
Seungcheol is an enigma. He's sculpted, he's hella smart, he's hella rich. The girls lined up outside the dorm just to catch a glimpse of him. The guys hogged out his dorm room just to know how can someone be a full package.
He knew people would either love him for his looks or mostly for his money. He had no hope of making genuine friends until he came across Wonwoo, a scholarship student, who was aloof and coincidentally his assigned roommate.
If Seungcheol thought he was good at pushing people away, he was amazed to see Wonwoo. Sharing the dorm room with him was almost living alone. Seungcheol couldn't pinpoint why but he knew Wonwoo hated him. So one day after gathering courage and confronting him, Seungcheol comes to know about his cautiousness against rich people in general. Then one talk lead to two, two lead to three and that's how Seungcheol and Wonwoo became friends.
He was sure he wouldn't find love until you came in the picture.
A hard slap comes against Seungcheol's cheek and the whole campus becomes eerily silent.
"How dare you submit my assignment in your name?", you are fuming in rage and raise your hand to slap him again when he holds your hand mid air.
"What the hell are you talking about?", he hisses through his teeth.
You scoff, "The audacity to pretend, Mr. Choi Seungcheol. Just because you have looks and money which you have no contribution in, you think you've conquered the world.", you free your arm from his grip, "Come to the professor's cabin at 2 or else I'll skin you alive. Pathetic loser."
You walk away but Seungcheol has his head spinning. He doesn't get why he got slapped out of nowhere and why the hell would he submit your assignment in his name when he doesn't even know you.
Then the lightbulb in his head goes off.
He immediately corners Jiah.
"What have you done?", he asks angrily.
Jiah is sweating, when she had assured Seungcheol that she would take care of the assignment because he had to aid his father with some business work and would be out of the country for two weeks, she didn't foresee herself completely forgetting about it.
So when she saw a binder kept on a desk, she silently took it and attached Seungcheol's name and details on it, tearing away the original owner's details.
Confident that even if someone caught onto it, they would let it slide just to get on Seungcheol's good side, she never thought it would backfire so bad.
Hence, Seungcheol is currently standing in the professor's cabin admitting to the wrong, head hung low.
You stand straight, head high also glaring at the professor, "What if he had not admitted to doing it? You'd have my whole work credited to him. Next time if something like this happens under my watch, I'll report it to the committee."
The professor gulps nervously and you are walking out not sparing another second.
That's where it all begun. Him knowing your name from the professor and chasing you down to apologise. You unabashedly giving him lectures on authenticity and ethics whenever he approached you.
You frequently get to see him, coincidentally or not. Him trying to make small talks, you ending his approach with an one word answer and moving ahead.
"Are you stalking me?", comes your sudden question one day.
"No, but I do look forward to seeing you, talking to you.", comes his honest answer.
He notices, you also like to keep your circle small. You're seen everywhere with the same two people. Now it's your turn to be amused when one day Mingyu insists on bringing Seungcheol to the musical, the one in which you've contributed to the background score. You're left embarrassed when at the end of the show he yells your name and applauds the loudest because he is mesmerized. That night he treats the whole team to dinner.
"I think Seungcheol likes you.", Eunsoo tells you one day.
"The almighty Choi Seungcheol?", you are laughing, "Soo, I don't match his social status. Have you seen those plastic heiress chasing him? I had even slapped him infront of the whole campus."
"Look, we have become good friends but I do know he approached me because of you.", Mingyu admits, "He definitely likes you."
"Do you like him?", Eunsoo asks you.
"Why would I like him?", you ponder.
Wonwoo is an observer. And with his special skill he deducts that his friend must have had his heart taken.
"So who's the one?", he asks one night when they're both getting ready for bed.
"Who's who?", Seungcheol asks confused.
"The one you like."
"Am I that obvious?"
"Yes. Please it be anyone except for Jiah, I can't tolerate her. Anyways, I know it wouldn't be her...", then Wonwoo goes on about how he spends less time in the dorm room nowadays. How he's always wandering around in the campus which he never did before. How he's consistent in attending the same two specific lectures.
"It's Y/N.", he says shyly, hiding his face behind his palms.
"No wonder, you're a masochist.", Wonwoo lays down on bed, "You like the girl who slapped you."
When he asks you out, instead of being taken out to a fancy restaurant as initially planned you request him to go on a movie date.
It took you five dates to make him know you.
"We don't belong to the same class, Seungcheol."
"I'm not looking for anything temporary, Seungcheol."
"I don't enjoy the luxuries, I'd rather achieve everything on my own, Cheol."
"I like to keep my circle small amd private. Nothing extravagant."
"I like you too but would you accept me after knowing all this?"
The response from him comes as strong as a whirlwind in the form a deep kiss. You might have been hesitant at start but he has always been sure.
Things have gotten better since your birthday. Seungcheol's hostility towards you has decreased and though you want to question him about this certain change, those take a backseat just to not lose what you have at this moment.
He snarks at you less. Listens if you have something to say. Checks upon you occassionally. Wears the attire you choose for him, you both have breakfast & dinner together. But you still sleep in separate rooms but after intimate nights he doesn't leave, rather sleeps in nowadays.
"You should never trust him.", says Chan from the other end.
"What if he's really changed?", you tell him, "Maybe he has finally got that all this revenge agenda is worthless if you can be with the person you love."
"Just ask him.", Chan insists, "You need to understand that being in denial would only hurt you so confront him."
"Okay, if you insist."
Wonwoo is suspicious of Seungcheol. He too like Chan isn't convinced that Seungcheol could change overnight. So he secretly keeps the tabs on him. The fact which disturbs him is Jiah is happy nowadays. If your relationship with Seungcheol improves then Jiah would be anything but happy which leaves him skeptical.
"Don't do anything you'd regret later.", he warns Seungcheol one day. The latter just shrugs off.
Seungcheol was escatic when he started first. It was fun for him to watch how you'd easily trust him. A piece of calk to make you a fool he thought.
He acts as a considering husband in front of you but schemes your downfall behind your back.
"One of those busy days?", he asks one day when he sees you returning from the academy late. It totally catches you off guard but that simple gesture makes you visibily beam as well which doesn't go unnoticed by your husband. He then proceeds to fake concern and show interest when you talk it out.
"How about we go to watch a movie?", he asks one night when you both finish having dinner.
"Will you be able to make time for that?", you ask concerned.
Next, he's grabbing your hand and dragging you out.
"We're in our pyjamas, we can't go out like this, Seungcheol!", you yell in panic when you get his motive.
He doesn't lend you an ear throughout the ride while he's driving you both to the theatre, having it entirely booked to his name.
You can't say much about the movie because Seungcheol's good at distracting you. His dirty whispers, lingering touches and sly looks lead to something unspeakable. Movie long forgotten you're basking in afterglow against your husband's bare chest, in his warm embrace.
"Remember when we were taken out of the theatre by the security after getting caught while making out?"
You laugh at the memory, "We did some real crazy things back then. I could never forget how you walked into the class only in underpants after loosing a bet to me."
Seungcheol response comes out as a scowl as he pinches your sides making you squeal.
You watch him for some moments in silence before mustering the courage and ask him, "Are you really willing to forgive me? Because after what I have done to you, I know it would take a lot more to forgive me."
Seungcheol freezes but gains his compusre quickly and lies through his teeth, "I pondered a lot upon it. You know my mom said the exact thing as you about marriages. So maybe it's a good idea to start anew."
"I-I promise I'll make it up to all the hurt and pain you've been in because of me. I'm so ashamed for treating you like that back then, wish I could take it all back.", your voice cracks, tears pooling in the corner of your eyes, "We'll be happy Seungcheol."
He doesn't believe you. But you do.
Then this goes on. He tries to slip into your life, your circle, your family casually so that when he hits later, the blow catastrophes you.
"I'm currently working on a piece.", you reveal to him one night, "And I'm planning to release the composition, it's midway.", a sigh escapes your lips as you snuggle closer in your husband's arms, "You're the first one to know."
Seungcheol mirrors your smile, pressing a feather kiss on your head, "I'm honoured. And I'm so proud of you.", he laughs when he says, "I wonder how Seungkwan's gonna react when he comes to know that he wasn't the first one to know."
"Oh God, he's gonna be a bitch about it.", you exclaim about it.
He surprises you with gifts, visits you in the academy and takes you to dates. All of it just to keep tabs on you, make you slip out crucial information about anything.
"When are you going to take her down?", Jiah ask impatiently, "You're unnecessarily stalling time."
"I do have gotten something crucial on her. But the more I dwell into this act, the more she'll be hurt.", Seungcheol assures, "Just do what you've been told to and don't act so obvious, specially around Wonwoo, I don't know why but he has been lately saying stuffs. Seems he has grown closer to Y/N and her circle."
Though he wasn't interested at all, but for the sake of fooling you again, he attends the competition you & Seungkwan had taken part in.
Though he would never admit, he was intrigued as he watched you perform again, the nostalgia had hit him hard. He still isn't sure if the loudest claps those came from him were just for eyewash or out of genuinity.
Though he didn't want to spend his birthday with you, somehow it ended up being the most memorable one. When you had wished him dot at midnight and gathered his family and beloved people for a private party where you played him a romantic piece which you had composed just for him as a birthday present, in front of everyone, he wonders if love laced aura radiating from you was real. He wonders if the swell in his chest was just not because of you.
Every time he thinks he's slipping, he reminds himself of the heart burns, the trauma and again he's back to his agenda.
There's a fine line between pretense and reality. And that line is starting to blur for Seungcheol. The worst part, he hasn't even realised it yet.
So when he makes time to visit your academy, he thinks he's acting out according to his plan. But he doesn't realise he goes there just to watch you teach.
He doesn't realise that when plans those dates he actually looks forward to spending time with you.
When you were down with fever, he took you to the doctor not to look good to you but out of genuine worry.
He now shares his bedroom with you. All your belongings have shifted from your room to his. He doesn't like it when he finds the other side of the empty in the mornings. He doesn't let you go if he catches you while you try to sneak off, he whispers sweet nothings in your ear.
He knows about your schedules and nowadays he frees his schedule when you ask him to come and watch you perform. He anticipates your performance until you're on the stage, still claps the loudest and rushes to the backstage with a bouquet just to hug and tell how proud he is of you.
He doesn't fuck you and he might yet not be aware but makes love to you.
"Cherry!", he calls out one day when the two of you were goofing around and both of you freeze instantly. It was a name you both called each other when you both dated and were so in love. And now, that's what falls back to your lips. Like the good old days.
"You have changed.", Jiah says with disappointment, "Do you really not want revenge?"
"What rubbish.", Seungcheol laughs, "It's all just acting.", but the assertiveness in his voice fluctuates.
"So when are you gonna do the needful?", she raises her voice and Seungcheol glares at her.
"I'll decide when to do what.", he snarks, "Doesn't concern you, so stop being pushy."
And Jiah is sure that Seungcheol isn't determined anymore, that his feelings are resurfacing and interfering with the plan.
So she decides to take the matter into her hands once again, like she did years ago.
"Tell me you're joking.", Seungcheol laughs as his gaze sweeps at the faces, "Ok fine you guys got me. Good try."
There's an eerie silence clogging the room.
"Guys, I said y'all got me!", Seungcheol says this time a bit anxious, "You won! Now can we stop all this drama?"
You roll your eyes, as if unbothered, "There's no prank going on here. What I said was true."
You step closer to him, "I'll say it again so listen carefully. You were just a bet to me.", you say unapologetically, "Those guys", your index points at Mingyu and Eunsoo, "gave me a bet to make you, 'the enigmatic Choi Seungcheol'", a mocking laugh follows, "who nobody could bag yet", you're now objectifying him, "make fall in you love with me."
Seungcheol just listens. But he refuses to believe.
You are laughing again. Your hands grab his face moving it side to side, "I was so skeptical because you seemed scary. I mean you do have looks, money and power. But who could guess that you'd be so easy."
You circle around him, "All I had to do was create this image of aloof, private kind of girl and bam! you were circling around me like a puppy. I must admit, I was surprised at my own acting. Never made you have a doubt any second."
The first tear rolls down his cheek, when Seungcheol says, "Was none of it real for you, all the time we spent together?"
"Are you not getting it?", you ask annoyed, "No. None of it was real."
Seungcheol rushes to Mingyu and grabs his collar, "Gyu, please tell me it's all a lie. Just say it and I'd believe it in a blink."
Mingyu stays quiet, eyes lowered.
He then grabs Eunsoo, "Soo, I know you're the most rational one among us, so please please I'm begging you to tell. Tell me whatever she's telling is not true."
Eunsoo refuses to meet his gaze, she stays silent as well.
Seungcheol frees her and stands motionless for moments. He processes everything that he has heard since the moment he stepped into the room. He thinks over but he still doesn't want to believe.
Because he loves you to much to let you go. So he decides to be irrational just one time.
Seungcheol wipes the tears and walks upto you. When you look at him, your heart twists within your chest.
"Y/N", he looks at you so tenderly, "But none of it matters.", his hands travel up to caress your face, "Because all of it was true from my side. I love you, Y/N. Love you so much that I want to spend the rest of my life with you. It's you or no one.", he says so sincerely, "It was wrong to start off as a bet but I want to forget all this."
He then kneels on his knees, "Y/N, let's start this relationship afresh, on the right foot."
You panic because this was not you had expected. You had expected him to throw tantrum, say mean things, even slap you. But none of that happens.
"I don't love you, Seungcheol --"
"Then let me court you. Let me try my luck. Let's see if I could make you fall for me?", he's radiating so much love and grief that it suffocates all the three of you.
This won't do, you think, your plan is failing.
"I have been sleeping with people behind your back the whole time we dated.", you say unabashedly, "I have climbed beds and you never got to know."
Mingyu gasps, Eunsoo freezes at your words.
"It's okay", Seungcheol assures, "Because we weren't real. But now--"
"What makes you think I wouldn't do the same even after being an actual thing with you?", you scoff, "I might actually cheat on you this time. I would have you, your money, the luxuries. I might also see other people and like now, you'd never know.
Seungcheol feels like you've stabbed his heart and twisted the knife. There's an unfathomable bleeding.
"But you never used me, nor my money, none of the luxuries to get something. If you wanted, you could have, have it all.", he argues, "It might have started as an act but at some point it must have become real. Or why would you make me aware of this stupid bet if you didn't have feelings for me?"
"Stop being a sucker.", you snark at him, "It's not like you won't girls. Why are you acting like a loser when you know I don't, I won't reciprocate your feelings?"
Seungcheol gets up, with shaky hands and bloodshot eyes.
"Because even if you didn't, I have loved you honestly.", comes Seungcheol's response.
"I won the bet and lost interest in you.", you look at him condescendingly, "I felt bad for you, so right now I'm letting you know the truth. So just leave, forget about all this and carry on with your life. You were nothing but another notch on my bedpost. I would admit, I had fun. Thanks for that."
Seungcheol gets up and thinks about how he made a fool of himself. Thinks about how right he was about people taking advantage of him because of the baggage that comes with him. Thinks about how wrong it was of him to let his guard down.
"Well played, y'all.", he claps and chuckles bitterly with eyes pooling with tears, "Well played.", he then throws a glare at you which sends down a shiver down your & your friends' spine.
"Make sure to not cross paths with me again. Or I'll make you regret your existance."
And you made sure that's the last time he saw you.
"I have to be overseas for an important deal.", Seungcheol says laying back on his office chair, "It will be a one week trip and the connectivity is so bad, I'd probably lose touch with everyone while I'll be there."
You go over to his side and stand behind to rub his shoulders making your husband groan in relief, "Tell me about it, happens with Chan as well. When are you leaving?"
Seungcheol takes your hand and pulls you to make you sit on his lap when he says, "Month end. Y/N, I was thinking that...", he pauses to look at you before continuing, "If you could make some time and come with me. We didn't have our honeymoon yet so maybe we could make a good use of this trip."
You smile softly at him, "I'd love to but remember I had told you about working on a composition, it's release is set on by the month end."
"Oh right!", Seungcheol exclaims as he recollects, "God, I'm sorry it skipped my mind.", he instantly sullens, "But I don't think I'd be able to postpone this trip. I'm sorry I couldn't be there with you."
You peck his pouty lips and trace them with your thumb softly, "I can guess how important it would be, so don't worry. Anyways our first anniversary is coming as well, we can plan something later."
"Woah, we're getting through it?", Seungcheol laughs, "I can't believe, we made it."
"All because of you.", your mood shifts when you say, "Just because you had it in you to give me a second chance. That alone was enough."
"I had loved you back then", Seungcheol exhales sharply because of what he's going to say now. He smiles when he realises his feelings, realises that without hesitation he's ready to say it again. Gently holding your face he confesses, "I think I'm falling for you again."
You go absolutely stiff in his hold.
Seungcheol carefully searches your face for any signs of discomfort or uneasiness but he finds none.
"Am I dreaming?", you ask him animatedly, "Can you pinch me? No..", you shake your head, "Would you say it again?"
His eyes turn into crescent moons, as he flashes you the adorable teethy smile.
"I've fallen for you again.", he admits.
"I-I... Seungcheol.. I--", you stutter unable to wrap your mind around your husband's confession.
It was so hard to let you go. It killed to break your heart. Only if I could turn back time, only if I could tell how much I loved you as well.
The thoughts inside your head become louder making you so overwhelmed that now you are sobbing. It's uncontrollable and it makes Seungcheol have to rock you gently side to side while downing your face on his shoulder.
"I-I can't believe this is happening.", you don't face him, saying the words with your face still perched, while wrapping your arms around him tighter, "I love you so much, I know it'd be hard for you to believe but please just trust me on this."
Seungcheol doesn't speak, but he knows that he wants to believe you. Because love is about taking chances, so he might take it as well.
Once you calm down in his embrace, he watches you. He watches the gear in your head turning so he does what he could do to take your mind off of things.
He calls Wonwoo and says, "Don't let anyone into my cabin until you get another call from me. Also, don't connect anyone to the telecom."
Then he's flipping the phone somewhere and he gives you that one look which is enough to melt you into a puddle before his lips, tongue and hands start to work on your whole body.
"Congratulations!", Chan says hugging you, "I'm so proud of you."
"Thanks for making time and coming to the event. Also, the inspiration comes from you all", you say pulling away, "Credit goes to you too."
"Bluff.", Seungkwan comes to pitch in, "The theme is love, then clearly inspiration must be someone named 'Choi Seungcheol'."
You roll eyes hitting him on the arm but laugh nonetheless.
"Look she isn't even denying!", Mingyu joins in to throw a banter, "But I must say you're okay compared to Eunsoo, she's hopeless."
Chan quirks brow at the statement and asks, "Am I missing something?"
You hook your arm into his, saying, "Eunsoo had an itty bitty crush on Wonwoo at uni days which gradually got away. But now that he's back and into our circle, looking like a four course meal according to her, she thinks her crush is relapsing."
"You make it sound like it's cancer.", Eunsoo finally quips in, "Anyways doesn't matter, there's no scope, I must move on. Good thing Seungcheol took Wonwoo with him, out of sight, out of mind."
"I miss my husband. He didn't even wanna leave for the trip to be with me.", you sigh, leaning on your brother's shoulder, "I can't even contact him. Three more days, ugh sounds like an eternity."
"Oh god, I might puke at the lovesickness.", Seungkwan fake gags, "Disgusting."
"It's good to see that you're happy.", Chan whispers just to you while others indulge in several topics to tease one another, "It's such a relief. I would like to talk to Seungcheol once he's back. If he really loves you and makes you feel like home then I'm ready to mend things as well."
You just nod and let the moment sink in. Your pupils dilate as you see the smiles on your friends' faces who have been there with you through thick and thin. Your mind lingers back the proud expression on your parents face. The heartiest congratulations that you received from your in-laws. You tilt your head to look at your brother who always has been your anchor, your biggest supporter. All of them have been present at the composition release event and now they are present at your home to extend the celebration. The parents take leave after sometime to let the peers have fun.
Your home, as you say it proudly now, a place you share with your loving husband, who has forgiven you for the scarred past and shares companionship with you.
Everything is falling back to place and you wish it stays the same. Your eyes fall heavy and you drift off.
The sleep must have been good because it's 10 in the morning when you wake up to see yourself tucked in sheets in your bedroom. The hall is empty and you immediately understand that your brother must have taken it upon himself to drive away your lovely but clingy-when-drunk friends from your house.
You try to call Seungcheol but as usual he's unreachable, so is Wonwoo, so is everyone who has gone to the trip. Dejected, you leave him a series of undelivered texts in hope it somehow reaches him and decide to take a bath which involves you to be away from your phone, just relaxing music and another round of sleep in the bathtub with your favourite bath bombs.
Not sure how long you've fallen asleep but you're woken up by loud voices from the other side of the door. Quickly freshening up you get ready as your phone keeps ringing or dinging because of notifications. Ignoring that you get out of your bedroom to find very distressed Chan and Seungkwan waiting for you.
"What happened guys?", you ask in concern.
Chan makes you sit and you see the two exchanging nervous glances which in turn makes you nervous as well.
"Y/N..", Seungkwan starts off, he exhales sharply and says, "Your work is being accused of plagiarism."
The ground beneath you slips. You look at Seungkwan and then at Chan.
Chan sounds pissed when he says, "Apparently a local artist has already released the composition five days ago, meaning four days before your release event."
You are panicking, shaking, tears are streaming down your face, "I-I didn't steal anyone's work. I-I have composed them, they're my work. Trust me guys, please..I--"
"We trust you, Y/N.", Seungkwan runs to you and rubs your arms, "I have been with you through it. I have seen it all."
"I was studying it with Kwan before coming here, everything is same. Every piece, every insertion, every note.", Chan says, "It looks like someone wholly copied your work.
Seungkwan sighs, "I feel so ashamed but all I can think of is somefrom the academy doing so."
"That's possible.", Chan asks, "But from what I know no one knew about this except you both. Even the event was announced just before a day or two to the people of academy."
Seungkwan asserts, "Everything was done remotely. Y/N do you recollect telling anyone else about this at any stage apart from Seungcheol?"
"Seungcheol knew?", Chan quips surprised and you are shaking your head.
"No. Leave him out of this, he wouldn't have done anything.", you warn your brother.
"I'm sorry Y/N, but I can't leave anyone out of this.", Chan says, "Someone is trying to harm you and I would see through the end of it. Be it anyone."
Eunsoo and Mingyu are stumbling upon while crossing the threshold. Seungkwan briefs them about what have been deducted till now and they decide to stick by your side while Chan and Seungkwan rushes out to the field to gather evidence and facts.
"I have already talked to my father.", Mingyu informs you, "He himself will aid with any legal advice. Don't worry everything will be sorted out."
"I had a talk with my mother. She also ensured that we'd broadcast only the solid proofs that pertains to the truth. We have faith in you, it'll get over soon.", Eunsoo ensures you, "Infact we have had our reporters dig in the matter as well."
Soon after your parents arrive followed by your in-laws. Your phone keeps ringing and no one allows you to hold it. Eventually, the device is turned off and kept somewhere, out of your reach.
Among all of the ominous thoughts involving losing your career, unable to pursue your passion anymore, being deemed as a thief, outcasted by the society and all others, the one that prevails is would Seungcheol believe you?
Two days go by and there's not much progress. You strike continuously as the most trending person on the internet, on news papers, in some tabloids boldly called out as a thief, the others focused more on why there's no statement from your own company or the Choi's themselves. The only thing that keeps you at bay is Seungcheol's return tomorrow.
You are flabbergasted at how can the two pieces of work be exact same unless someone copied it. You decide to visit the academy and search for any leads. Just as you are about to drive off your phone buzzes.
I have some information that would benefit you. Meet me at The Ritz at 11.
The text was from Jiah and you're instantly drawn to how Jiah could be the one involved in this.
"Let's skip the formalities.", Jiah smiles as she places some documents and an usb drive in front of you.
There's a laptop kept on the table, the screen displaying an audio ready to be played.
"Aren't you eager to know what's happening and why it's happening to you?", Jiah asks with a cunning smile which irks you.
"Stop wasting my time and reveal if you know something.", you snark back, "And don't think I'd believe a word you say without any proof because I don't trust you a bit."
"Seungcheol--"
"Don't you dare bring my husband into this, Jiah!"
Your heart shrinks because of the look Jiah gives you. No way your husband would be involved into all this, no way he'd go as far as to ruin your career.
"I have done it. I have paid a staff in your academy to steal your work, made it release before your event and hence you're being charged with plagiarism.", Jiah confesses and before you could charge her she drops the bomb, "Your husband, Choi Seungcheol is the mastermind behind it."
"I'll cut your tongue for speaking rubbish--"
"How do you think I knew about all this? Who else apart from Seungcheol knew about this?", Jiah asks. Her gaze falls on the laptop and she gestures you to play it.
"Y/N is working on a composition and is planning to release it sometime later. We should use this opportunity to bring her down."
The audio stops and you recognise the voice as your husband's. The jab hits hard, hard enough to make you loose your footing. Jiah is quick to hold you and make you sit on the chair.
"Have a look at these papers."
Your hands are shaky when you pick up the papers. You freeze on reading the heading. Your hands fall to the sides once you finish reading it whole. Those bunch of papers were about transferring your shares of the academy under the Choi's name.
Jiah doesn't give you time to settle as she plays another recording.
"Are the papers ready? What will happen if I take her lifeline away from her?"
"When are you going to take her down? You're unnecessarily stalling time."
"The more I dwell into this act, the more she'll be hurt. Just do what you've been told to and don't act so obvious, specially around Wonwoo, I don't know why but he has been lately saying stuffs. Seems he has grown closer to Y/N and her circle."
You sit there motionless. The person you considered your world was the one planning to stab you.
"You can get these recordings examined.", Jiah tells you, "To be sure that I haven't manipulated or tampered with the recordings."
She takes a sit beside you and observes you carefully. The triumphant smile that graces her lips on seeing you getting trampled, makes her believe that now's the time when she could spew any lies and you'd believe it. She knows she has won over.
"The plan was to take advantage of your helplessness and make you transfer the shares in the disguise of helping you clearing your name.", Jiah leans in closer to your face, "Why do you think Seungcheol is out of country out of all the time? He's trying to build up the urgency so that as soon as he walks in you'd be at his feet asking for help."
Jiah has accepted that she would never have Seungcheol to herself, so not at fear of loosing anything she's going all out as for to separate you two.
"The Choi's are so powerful that no matter how much you try, there's no way you could prove your innocence.", Jiah says as her sinisteric gaze falls on you again, "You can take all these proofs, additionally, I'll even provide the details pertaining to the person who stole your work and make them confess."
"W-Why are you helping me?"
"Either way it breaks you two apart and that's the motive. Knowing the truth would hurt you the most."
Her heels clank loudly as she walks out, leaving you behind, defeated and devastated.
How foolish of you to believe that Seungcheol would forgive you easily? How naive of you that you fell for his act of a doting husband.
You wonder if this is how he had felt after being betrayed by you. You run your hands over your chest to soothe the ache. You scream, throw down anything you could grab, stomp over the place but nothing helps you in calming down.
Three hours have passed and you're still in that damned conference room. Scathed, scrotched and scattered.
You inhale, exhale and repeat. Then you're calling your brother.
"Chan, arrange for a press conference tomorrow evening. Also stop looking further into the case. I have evidence to prove that I'm innocent.", you say into the phone, "Gather everyone at the academy, none of the Choi's though. Ask Eunsoo if they would broadcast it on their network. Tell Mingyu to have Mr. Kim free some time for me this week if possible. Make the checks now, we can't delay it further."
Seungcheol's boarding the plane back home when he comes to know of the situation. He feels sick to stomach when all that's happening feels too known to him. Though he might have wanted this to happen once but now he can't even fantom the thought of doing something so viscious to you.
He calls you but you don't pick up. He calls others, makes Wonwoo call them too but it's fruitless.
He's anxious throughout the way, worried sick, feels guilty for not being by your side when you're going through so much. He hopes you're not beating your much, wants to hold, wants to assure you that everything will be fine, that you have him.
Wonwoo is running through all the red lights equally anxious. He wants to go inside and check upon you but he steps aside as he watches Seungcheol rushing into the house, hoping you'll be okay.
Seungcheol rustles through the corridor and slam opens the door, hurriedly making a sprint inside the house.
It's afternoon but the house, entire hallway is dimly lit. Suddenly the lights go on and he spots you.
Something about you is different, it's almost eerie. The black dress you're wearing, the cold gaze your throwing is unsettling.
"Baby--", you hold out your hand when Seungcheol starts to walk towards you.
Seungcheol halts, he feels the grimness in your aura.
"Welcome back, Seungcheol. I have been waiting for you.", you say apathetically, "Take a seat, I have some things to discuss with you, before I leave for the press conference."
That's when Seungcheol notices your finger void of the wedding ring.
this is what i was talking about…guys….if this isn’t brat tamer daddy cheol i don’t know what is
the you’re being a brat right now smirk? the that’s enough wink? the i’ll deal with you later head nod and pursed lips? the SILENCE AND BEING ABLE TO CONTROL THE SITUATION WITHOUT SAYING A WORD? i’m sick
I’ve been getting messages about my reading lists (because I haven’t been posting monthly and I really don’t have any excuse for not posting for four months lol). Though most of these have been reblogged, commented on, mentioned, etc. and that anybody can just check my archive and tags for the fics, I compiled them all in this list for easy reference (I refer to these lists too 😊). I also notice that it is easier to find fics when they are logged/documented somewhere and when described or properly tagged in the post. I hope this will help readers and potential readers find the fics they like.
💌 Again, these are not mine and we have all these authors to thank - I really appreciate all of you. I may not get to reach all of you but I hope this can serve as a multiplier and reach other readers to discover your gift of stories and for them to find their favorites 💌
Note: if link doesn’t work, click on author link and go to their masterlist
🥕 Ongoing - most recent chapter [as of date this list was posted]
🥕 Completed - drabbles | one shots | series
🥕 S - smut | F - fluff | A - angst
Mostly Mature, 18+ only please
I read different members, different genres so please take note of the tags, description per fic
Don’t forget to reblog/comment on author’s work, too 😊
No AO3 Fic Recs because I have a more organized system on ao3 and putting it here will take time 😭 sorry.
[around 120 fics] I should really go back to posting per month to avoid this buildup
Contains: Namjoon being naive or more like idiots really, jealousy, pining, sexual tension, sexual scenes, sort of f2e2l
WC: 5k
Plot: Promotion is always a good idea, but yours is bittersweet. You’ve been nothing but the best assistant Namjoon could ever have but when he caused you to move office you’re not sure anymore. Despite the nagging question in your mind of where you went wrong you keep doing what you do best -your job. But that doesn’t mean you won’t be bitter and a pain in his ass, especially now that he’s not your boss anymore.
Chapter Summary: A staredown between you and your former boss ignites things in you two.
It has been ten days since Namjoon, with a giddy grin on his face, handed you the letter of acceptance from the Strategic Planning Manager himself. Does internal transfer processing really take that fast? Was Mr. Jung in dire need of a new officer or was Namjoon that eager to send you away?
It has been nine days since you reluctantly accepted the job offer despite yourself and despite hating Namjoon for giving you a career growth you never asked for and can never be truly thankful for. A sour taste appears on your mouth making you sick of your ungratefulness because you know this was very unlikely you.
It has been five days since you made yourself acquainted and comfortable on your new desk, or at least tried to. Now, your space is way smaller, sharing a room with the whole team. You had to sort out your less important belongings in a box under your desk, pinning a mental note that you would need to bring them home this weekend.
You almost chuckle seeing that the now least important things were Namjoon's lifeline - a box of pens because he always loses his, complaining that if things were digital he wouldn't need it anyway; packs of wet wipes for when his clumsy self causes spills and stains; and the most important one - a first aid kit for when he'd always injure himself.
It has been four days and your mind is still filled with thoughts of him and even without seeing the stupid random stuff, you knew your mind would be occupied by him anyway because you're still riddled with the reason for his sending you away.
Maybe you should have just confronted him about why he submitted your name as an applicant without you knowing instead of spending days mulling over it. There is no denying how the two of you have grown close in those five years of working together so what changed now that suddenly your tongue was caught by the cat?
The anger still weighs you down, the question still fogs your head and you have not been at your best. You may not have wanted this promotion but now that you're here, you wouldn't want to sabotage it either.
So, as you pushed the box further under the desk, you pushed all thoughts about Kim Namjoon aside and planned on dedicating your whole time and energy to your new team.
"Is Mr. Jung available?" you asked Jungkook, your boss's assistant.
"He just came back from a meeting. I'll check if he's free now." He left you at the receiving area reminding you once again of your old office and your old boss. After a minute he returned gesturing for you to come in.
When you stepped in, you immediately noticed how bright the office ambiance was. It had little to do with the natural light coming through the floor-to-ceiling windows or the colorful Kaws that lined his shelf and more with the man himself - his cheerful, approachable self that made the room so cozy and warm.
"Is there a problem, Ms. Yu?" he asked, a pursed grin on his lips.
"Are these the only reports I need to go over for next week's meeting?"
"This quarter's report, yes."
"Should I not review the past quarters' reports as well?"
"But that's not what's going to be discussed in the meeting."
You did not know if the new look on his face was of confusion or frustration. An employee doing what is not asked of him is a turn-off and you definitely didn't want to come across as a show-off. You knew you have to give a reason for your being incessant.
"I can't possibly contribute to the team let alone to the meeting without knowing how the plans and projects were met for the past quarters."
When your boss's expression changed, you took it as a cue to go on with your explanation.
"I mean I may have a slight idea from when I was in the budget team, but that was from a finance point of view. I knew Mr. Kim was always difficult, not giving you your asking budget. But I just might know the reason and if I look up at the previous propositions, maybe I'd see points that could have been beneficial to our sales, had not Mr. Kim been so...stingy." You paused at the last word, not sure if it was ethical to refer to your former boss as that.
Hoseok burst into laughter, surprised that you just called Namjoon that. "You do make a point. I'll have Mr. Jeon send them to you. I'm lucky Mr. Kim gave you to me," he said and it took all your will to mirror his smile.
Gave.
You knew it was meant as a compliment but for you, it was the opposite. The harsh truth hits you again. He did send you away. So far for not letting him occupy your mind.
It has been five days since you and Namjoon crossed paths. Besides the company breaks and vacations, this was the longest he hasn't seen in you at work and it planted a longing in his heart, something he never thought he'd feel.
Sure, Christmas breaks lasted a week or two, but at the end of it he knew he'll come back to working with you. This however was different.
It has been just five days and he started to question if he did the right thing of sending you away.
"How is she doing?" Namjoon asked Hoseok over a quick coffee break.
"Sana? She's fine. Although, I'm afraid I'm letting her overwork herself. Is she always like that?" He peered at Namjoon over the brim of his cup of coffee, his brows arching showing genuine curiosity and concern. He couldn't be more grateful for a very efficient and observant employee but he didn't like the idea that you might be doing it to get his approval. He knew that your educational background is subpar with other applicants' and he feared that you were trying to make up for that.
"Dedicated? Yes. That's why I told you she's a good asset to your team."
"Then why did you send her my way? You could have had her on yours."
"We don't have an opening," Namjoon said matter-of-factly. If they did, there was no way you'd be with the Planning Team right now. But he didn't want to keep you for himself either while waiting for the unknown and pass up on a good opportunity for you.
"I feel like she's wasting her time with me as my assistant. She's been working on menial admin tasks when she could better use her skills in bringing tangible impact to the company."
"Menial? Do you have any idea how taxing their jobs are? God, if I could trade Jungkook for Sana as my assistant, I would."
"Okay, I take it back, but you get what I mean. She's built for something bigger than checking e-mails, answering phone calls, managing someone else's schedule." Why he had the audacity to say that when he was aware he was already missing some of his appointments since you left, he didn't know.
"Yeah, I think I get you," Hoseok answered in between sips. In a week your new boss has agreed that you're a valuable addition to his team.
"So, how did you even convince her to switch teams?"
"I didn't," he said flatly, his admission lacking any hint of guilt or shame. "I just submitted her resumé to you. I actually didn't expect you to take up on her, but I'm really glad you did. She'll never let you down, I promise."
"You did what?" Hoseok's eyes widened at this new information. Not only were your credentials meager compared to others, you never wanted to join his team in the first place.
"All this time I thought she really wanted the position despite the lapse in her degree, that's why she's working double time. And now you're telling me you did all this behind her back?" His brow raised but not as high as his voice did questioning his friend's actions.
"You think you own the girl that you could just send her to any department you deem she fits?" Hoseok and you weren't acquainted much but knowing you as Namjoon's assistant and knowing you now that you are working under him, he couldn't believe at what his friend did.
"Well, if you put it that way, it sounds bad."
"In what way am I supposed to put it then? You did it without her consent, how do you sugarcoat that?"
"But she didn't say no when you offered the position to her, did she? She didn't tell me to retract her application either. I really thought I was doing her a favor here and seeing that she pushed through with it, I thought it was for good." Namjoon felt he did make a point, but even he wasn't convinced. Now that Hoseok brought light to the matter, he might finally understand why you were suddenly hostile towards him.
Two weeks was a short time to revisit this quarter's goals and plans. You can't even remember why you insisted on brining up an old proposal with only the last quarter of the year left. When you did, however, your senior officer and manager supported you with no question. If you'd be honest, you actually didn't expect them to, at least not that easily. You even prepared yourself to persuade them if needed.
But that was Hoseok and Yoongi, now you needed to convince the Planning Director, and two more managers, and that included your ex boss.
You know you are prepared now, like you always were under Namjoon's team, but back then you were always composed and seldom rattled. Now, you are prepared but certainly at your wits end.
While Hoseok and his team were nothing short of amiable and supportive, you were still aloof and nervous. You knew that you are far from being suited for the job and it was what stressed you out for the past two weeks. If you don't work double or triple even, you might seriously get fired this time, but if you do, you'd definitely look like you're kissing your boss's ass.
No one but him knows your credentials or the lack of them, but everyone knew you were simply a former assistant and that alone is enough to drive you to prove yourself - something you were long past done with your previous team and something you're not fond of doing again.
"Are you seriously going over your notes thirty minutes before the meeting?" Jimin, one of the planning officers asked, standing next to you.
You almost jerked from your seat when he bent down at your desk trying to look at the graphs on your screen.
"Uh, yes, Mr. Park," you answered nervously.
"I told you it's Jimin. No one calls me Mr. Park," he whined causing laughter in the room. For the first time you started to feel comfortable, and less than an hour before your first presentation, it was much appreciated.
"Wait, aren't those past reports though?" he asked, pointing at your screen.
"Let her be, she knows what she's doing," Yoongi, your senior officer, said across your desk, coming to your rescue. The last thing you needed was for you to doubt your own proposal.
When you sat with Yoongi about it, you felt like a man proposing to his fiancee and receiving a 'yes' when he approved of it, not that he had the final say, but to be recognized by your senior was already a win for you. And then Hoseok did. Even if this doesn't pass the board today, at least two people believed in your plan.
"Thanks, Mr. Min," you smiled shyly.
"Yup, that is weird. Don't call me that, too."
Shortly after, you all proceeded to the conference room. Everything is familiar - same room, same people, except for Namjoon's new assistant whom you have met and trained exactly four times. It had you wondering, is he doing a good job?
Did he remember to prepare his boss an iced americano in his Kleen Kanteen to keep him awake just in case it's one of those boring meetings that could have just been an email? Did he remember to not give in to his boss's plea of taking the minutes on the tablet believing it was convenient even when you have proven multiple times that the colored post-its were a better visual reminder for his piling folders and tasks? Did he remember to bring wipes just in case he spills his iced americano?
Just then as if answering one of your questions you see him pull out the tablet.
You sigh and shake your head and suddenly, after coming back to reality, mentally curse yourself for letting your mind fleet again with thoughts of him. Being as anxious as you are now, distraction in the form of Kim Namjoon is the last thing you needed.
"Hey, I heard you were presenting a new proposal today?" Yoona slithered her arms around yours the moment she saw you. Your nerves were not going away so you simply nodded. "Fighting!" she said before joining her team.
"I heard too that you'd be giving me a run for my money?" You froze hearing Namjoon behind you and you almost forgot how nervous you were. His presence instantly replaced it with exasperation. You turn not expecting him to be mere inches away and staring down on you. Your eyes easily averted on his hands - no Kleen Kanteen, no iced americano.
"Good luck making me change my mind on the budget. You've worked for me for five years, you know I'm not easily convinced."
"Is that a challenge, Mr. Kim?"
You didn't miss the shocked but amused look on Namjoon, but you did miss the gaping mouths of everyone else in the room, including Hoseok's. Just then, Kim Seokjin, the Performance Monitoring manager came in, right in time to witness your little staredown.
"Namjoon, you're not belittling Ms. Yu are you? You practically raised her. If she's as bad as you think, then doesn't that make you a lousy boss?" Seokjin muttered with a grin. "This should be interesting."
Suddenly it dawned on you - you won't just be getting the director's approval, more importantly, you need Namjoon's approval. Without the budget, your proposal will go down the drain, just like the many others that he managed to decline. And you knew that because in instances more than once, you took part in some of that decision-making.
Over your unofficial lunch meetings, he would ask you for your thoughts on certain projects. Off the record, he would always say, just to make you talk. He knew you always had fresh insights about matters but he also knew you wouldn't want to influence him and be the reason why some projects would get turned down. Heck, you'd never admit that to Hoseok. Although, it won't be a shock if he already knew that by now.
But that's beside the point. Seokjin is right. You were trained under Namjoon. You knew him better than any other in the Strategic Planning team. This was your A game. It has to be. It's your chance of proving to your team that you're a good asset and to prove to Namjoon that he did the mistake of sending you away.
"In fact, why don't we start the meeting with the proposal from the Process Re-engineering?" Seokjin said, taking his seat at the far end of the table. "Mr. Lee can't join us. The minutes will be relayed to him. For now, you need to win us, Mr. Kims."
"Shouldn't we go over this month's reports first?" Yoongi interrupted and you knew he was trying to save your ass.
"If it's good news, then by all means. If it's the same stats as last month, we'll start with the proposal," Seokjin instructed looking at Hoseok.
"Go ahead, Ms. Yu," your boss nodded at you with a bitter look and you felt the pit of your stomach drop.
You stood in front, trying your best to look calm despite the beads of sweat forming on your armpits. You have never been nervous like this before. You initially thought you'd be okay with your proposal being turned down. Seeing how smug your former boss was though ignited a desire in you to beat him.
Meanwhile, your former boss was just taking in your looks, not the slightest intrigued by your proposal that you were so proud of. Were you always that smug? Angsty Sana was a persona he has never seen, and he didn't know if it was a loss or a gain. He certainly didn't wish to get on your bad side, but seeing you feisty ignited a desire in him as well. It's a different kind, though, and seeing you in a slim dress that outlined your silhouette just almost made him feral.
How come you never wore a dress before? Why did you never let your hair down? Were your cheeks always this flushed? Were your lips always this plump?
He wanted to ask but obviously, it wasn't the appropriate time or place. He doesn't even know if there will ever be a right time and place to ask those stupid questions.
"Ready when you are, Ms. Yu" was what he said instead and of course, it had to be coupled with a smug look on his face.
"We have revisited Mr. Min's proposal from the second quarter," you started, clicking the remote to show the first slide that said: Proposal for Cardless Installment on Online Shopping Website.
Not even getting past the first slide and you already heard Namjoon's muffled laugh. Your eyes immediately darted at him and everyone followed suit. You didn't know if you'd be glad the director wasn't present because staying professional is proving to be hard, or if you'd wish him to be here to give Namjoon a scolding for how being difficult he was.
"Mr. Kim," Seokin thankfully warned him.
"What? She practically helped me back then in turning that proposal down."
What the hell.
Did he just tell on you?
Everyone from your team widened their eyes at you, surprisingly except for Yoongi himself.
"It's just ironic. Anyway, go on. I'm sorry for interrupting," he said as if his permission was needed. "This should be interesting indeed," he whispered to Seokjin but still loud enough for the whole room to hear.
Fuck, this is war.
"That is true." It was futile to deny it at this point when your boss himself outed you. Coming clean was the least you can do.
"There were flaws with his proposal which is why we went over it and changed a few things." It took every power in you to feel confident, to sound confident. You owe it to Yoongi. You don't want to appear like the villain who stepped on his project only to claim credit afterward. And you can't blow it up as if Yoongi did all the work because it would sound condescending.
No matter which angle you look at it, it won't end well for you. Things would be awkward from here on. But it's a problem for future you. Present you has to deal with this proposal getting across the board first.
"The previous concern was the assurance of the customers paying their credit and Mr. Min already addressed that," you continued, not failing to give credit where it was due.
"Some of the measures were stricter KYC documentation and requirement, making the program available only to those who have good purchasing ability from our online website but not limited to the affluent who are most likely to afford credit cards anyway."
You scanned the room quickly and was relieved to see everyone paying attention, with Namjoon probably paying too much. His gaze was lowered, a hand on his chin, a raised brow - telltales that he is scrutinizing the proposal in front of him.
"The amendment to this is to lower the interest rate and to discontinue the customer's access to all our services. That means if a creditor misses a certain number of billing cycles, he will be banned from using other services from our company where the person has a registration."
"So that includes access to our network provider?" Yoona asked to which you nodded.
"Isn't that going too far?" Taehyung from Namjoon's team asked.
"There's no loophole that we missed. The clause on refusal to service covers it. The creditors would be screened according to their purchasing behavior. We are targetting low and mid-class buyers. They won't afford to have bad credit nor to be cut off from our services. The installment plans would be a help to customers who want to improve their quality of life but can't wait long enough to save for good things. If they save their money, there's no guarantee that they would still spend it on us. They will be enticed to enroll in this program. And when they do, they'll make sure they'll keep good credit so they can purchase more in the future."
"If they use an alias? Fake address? Or don't use our other services?" Seokjin asked.
"The KYC documentation and requirement cover that, one being they should be using at least one of our services already - mobile network, ISP, banking, among others. You can read the full details on page five," you motioned to the folders sitting on their desks that apparently no one has opened until now.
"We also added reward programs, temporary limit increase, and occasional zero installment plans on some items to attract creditors."
The room fell silent for a few minutes as you gave them time to read the papers.
"I see the potential of this project, but why do you want to include this now in this quarter's plans? We only have three months left. Aren't you being too ambitious on this Ms. Yu?" Namjoon asked, his earlier spiteful demeanor now gone.
"Simple. It's Christmas," you said with a playful shrug of your shoulders eliciting giggles from the audience.
"For the past years, our December sales were good, with the online shopping website falling behind. We only have good credit sales in our electronics. If you accrue the potential profit from installment payment interest, little will go a long way."
"Do we have enough time though?" Seokjin inquired.
Before you could even answer, Namjoon interrupted. "That's true. Three months? Probably two given a month of preparation, if that's even enough." His eyes are on you, his voice deep, his brow raised, his lips curled up on one side, his presence commanding. For five years of working under him, it was your first time to be stared by the man in such intimidating yet sultry fashion. If this was a whole different situation you would've give in to your buckling knees and fall to the ground.
But it wasn't. For fuck's sake get yourself together, you almost visibly and audibly murmured to yourself. So as if to keep your composure and posture more astute, you locked your knees and leaned to grip the side of the table.
Your lowered stance, your arms slightly sprawled against the edge of the table, your equally deep stare at him that you were oblivious of almost had him swallowing.
Almost.
Instead, he feigned a cough to clear his throat.
"That's not enough time for ROI, not to mention you even lowered the interest rates. This will put a dent on our year-end revenue. You really expect me to give this a pass?" The furrow on your brow was enough sign for him to think that this will be yet again a failed proposal and it had him grinning. Why he seemed so bent to best you at this, he didn't even know.
But oh he knows. He always scrutinized proposals that would either have a large cut on the budget or could end up as a potential big loss.
What he doesn't know is why is it pleasing him seeing you riled up.
He shook his head and nudged Seokjin on his arm, the sexy look in his face gone and the smug plastered back on his face.
Of course, your ex boss won't go easy on you. You knew ROI was his concern always, and rightly so. Even Yoongi protested against your suggestion of lowering the interest rates knowing Namjoon would see that as a flaw. But you knew there were things he missed.
You straightened your posture and rolled your eyes as subtle as you could because at this point it just couldn't be helped anymore. With a click on the remote and deep breath, you proceeded.
"For the past four years that the online shopping website has been up, the increase in new customers and subscribers aren't impressive. Yes, the ROI would take longer than we'd like. But at this point, you should've realized-" you paused to emphasize that as a good manager as he is, there were simple things he missed.
But if you'll be honest, it was really for the dramatics.
"-that this project is targeting the following KPIs - conversion, loyalty and advocacy."
You went ahead to discuss how each key performance indicator would be met. When you were done, you glanced at your boss nodding as if you needed anymore of his approval.
"As for the timeline and preparation, we have already asked someone from the credit and finance department, and legal team to draft the terms and conditions. It should be ready by Monday. After that, the hands will be dealt with by the IT department," your boss answered them this time.
"You convinced the finance and legal department to draft you the terms and conditions without prior approval?" Namjoon was shocked so were the other people in the room.
You tilted your head and raised a brow. "I told you, I'm confident on this, Mr. Kim." This time you got to wear the smug look.
They reviewed the proposal for few more minutes and the earlier triumphant spirit that you had was starting to be replaced with anxiety.
"You are bold, Ms. Yu, and that's a compliment. So far I have no objections," Seokjin smiled at you and you finally let out the breath you didn't even realize you were holding. The sigh escaped your mouth loudly, you didn't even bother hiding it.
"You?" Seokjin turned to the other Kim.
He looked at the documents once more with brows furrowed. You knew this look of his like the back of your hands.
You spent countless nights waiting on him to finish reviewing budget proposals. You didn't have to wait but you insisted and he more than welcomed your presence in his office.
You'd never admit but getting to stare at him while he was engrossed with his work was something you looked forward to at the end of the day. You thought he looked so handsome when he was serious reviewing papers. Now that your paper was on the receiving end of it, it's a totally different story.
"I agree, you are bold, Ms. Yu. I give you that, but that doesn't change the fact with an ROI that's not that lucrative our year-end revenue might suffer."
You felt a pang in your heart with Namjoon's words. That was always his introduction for when he would decline a project.
"But-" he paused and clearly it was also for the drama. He didn't miss the way your eyes widened and how you pursed your lips to hide the stupid smile threatening. You know that you'll look pathetic to show giddiness only for the proposal to be rejected in the end.
How can you change from feisty to looking like a doll in blink of an eye? He cleared his thoughts and despite the hanging question of whether have you always been this cute, he continued.
"-it is definitely achievable and still profitable than not implementing it at all. And you are correct, our new customers and subscribers on the online shopping site have been more or less stagnant," he added.
Your team was mostly quiet. You saw Jimin squeezing Yoongi's arms and Hoseok biting his lip and you were scrunching the sides of your dress.
"I have no objection as well. Mr. Lee's approval is the last one you'll need." When he finally said it, you audibly gasped. You wanted to hug him. You wanted to run to him and report your first successful proposal like he wasn't one of the managers who approved it. You wanted to celebrate with him and share your win ready to forget the grudge you've been holding.
"You owe me fifty bucks, Jin," Hoseok shouted across the room breaking you from your thoughts and earning surprised glances from everyone.
"You bet on their proposal?" Namjoon asked flabbergasted.
Jin nodded, "My money was on you turning them down. You did raise Ms. Yu well."
"Too well I guess. I felt I just got a taste of my own medicine."
Now, you didn't suppress your smile reaching your ears and you swear you saw Namjoon smile at you. You wanted to savor the feeling, maybe this was a good idea. He gave you a push, the push you needed to dream big because why the hell not?
When you took your seat beside Yoongi he leaned in and asked, "So, you were the reason my proposal was turned down the first time?"
In an instant, you were brought back to the reason why you were infuriated at your former boss and all former plans of hugging and thanking him went right out the window.
You're starting to question yourself whatever did you find in him that made you infatuated because it's starting to blur now.
♡ hi.
the second chapter had gone through much editing. i may have gotten carried away with the business deets, i hope i don't bore anyone but i wanted this to be as real as it could get and not just throw vague scenes 'cause if i would, i'd rather write a drabble or a one-shot. but i haven't finished my units in marketing so if any of u is a business major, pls be gentle on ur criticism heehee
also, i've been distracted a lot by the man himself with his sexy nukim sexy dance during w korea's event for their recent campaign. it would forever be ingrained in my brain.
♡ anne
comment if you want to be tagged or just to share your thoughts. would love to interact with y'all. and lastly, i hope it's not a big ask to reblog. it means the world to us writers.
This is based on a recent ask I received from @monovcut.. Thank you! I had fun making this list
I almost included other fics where he’s the smart dude, the genius, the scientist, the smart professor, etc. but I focused on scenarios where Namjoon is smart but has this quality about him that’s either shy or weird or awkward that makes him oh so adorable? Maybe not blatantly so in some of the fics, other times more pronounced. I also read various genres so you will be surprised at how the list will feature fics from sugar daddy au to fantasy-themed.
💌 Sharing this and I hope you all enjoy this as much as I did because I love hot, nerdy Namjoon too 🥰. Thank you dear authors for writing and bringing this wonderful concept to life. 🥰
Please note that some of the fics are mature. Minors please DNI. Check the tags/warnings per fic too.
S - smut | F - fluff | A - angst
Note: if link to fic doesn’t work, click on author and go to their masterlist.
“…i am worried for everyone. i think about your health, and whether you’re doing okay, whether you are holding on tight during a time when nothing seems to go as planned, whether your body and mind are all safe and sound. i hope you are all doing well, but if things are not okay even in the slightest, we send you our most sincere consolation with all of our hearts. yoongi hyung likened the state of today to being deserted on an island, but i hope you will never give up. remember there is a person here, in korea, in the city of seoul, who understands you.” - pjm♡
happy 26th birthday to our healing fairy, our thoughtful angel, our person: park jimin, towards whom my gratitude is boundless and indescribable. ♡
areudirty
turnnoffyourmind
dailybridgerton
jacobvanloon
blakekathryn
dededos
andulkaphoto
tangentwithtanner
germansingergirl
