Soo-yeon's POV:

"Eomma, I'm at the meeting with-"
Soo-yeon flinched as her mother's voice pierced through the line. "A meeting? At a fancy restaurant with champagne and jazz music?"

Around her, laughter and clinking glasses filled the air. She tightened her grip on her phone. "Eomma, it's work-related. I'll be home soon."

Her mother scoffed. "Work must be nice if it involves fancy meals. You better not be the one paying for it."

Soo-yeon sighed, closing her eyes briefly. It wasn't worth arguing. "It's the manager's birthday. I'll leave soon," she mumbled.

"Fine fine," her mother replied abruptly before ending the call without another word.

Soo-yeon stared at the blank screen of her phone for a moment before slipping it back into her purse. She plastered a polite smile back on her face and raised her glass slightly when one of her colleagues looked her way.

The grip of her hand around the champagne glass is tighter, the laughter around her fading into background noise. Her mother's sarcasm wasn't just about the party-it was the canceled weekend visit that stung.

Soo-yeon bit the inside of her cheek, guilt creeping in despite herself. She hadn't intended to back out-it wasn't like she enjoyed breaking promises. But work had come up, and her manager's promotion party felt like an obligation she couldn't avoid.

Still, she could imagine her mother's disappointed look, the same ones she had seen when she canceled plans with her family in the past. She can imagine the two sad pouts on her high school cousins, who wanted to see her so dearly, and an apologetic smile from her sister to their mother.

Clank, clank.

The sound of a spoon striking glass interrupted her spiraling thoughts. Startled, Soo-yeon looked up to see CEO Kim Namjoon standing confidently at the front of the room, his sharp suit and commanding presence demanding the attention of everyone in attendance. The room quickly quieted as Namjoon prepared to speak.

She quickly put on a smile and joined in the applause, pushing aside her guilt for breaking her promise to her family.

"So, today, our best manager, Kim Seokjin, has been promoted to the head manager position, and I couldn't be prouder!" Namjoon declared, his voice rich with genuine enthusiasm.

The room erupted in cheers, clapping, and congratulations. Soo-yeon clapped along, her hands moving in rhythm with her colleagues, though her heart felt disconnected from the celebratory mood.

Namjoon's gaze swept across the room, sharp and observant, before it settled briefly on Soo-yeon. The sudden eye contact made her heart skip a beat, but she maintained her composure, holding his stare with a warm, polite smile.

"And let's not forget another big achievement tonight!" Namjoon continued, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "Our assistant manager, Ms. Jin Soo-yeon, has also been promoted-to Deputy head manager!"

Soo-yeon's colleagues burst into applause and cheers around her, congratulating her enthusiastically. She bowed her head slightly, grateful for their kindness, even as her emotions churned within her-pride at her accomplishment, anxiety about the challenges ahead, and that persistent guilt she couldn't quite ignore.

It wasn't even a promise-just a casual mention that she might visit. But the guilt gnawed at her nonetheless. It was a feeling she was all too familiar with-one she had learned to suppress over the years. Every time she canceled, every time she let someone down, she found a way to justify it, to balm the sting. She told herself it didn't matter, that she had bigger responsibilities, but deep down, the disappointment she left behind always lingered.

Because all the hard work she had poured in over the years led her to this very moment-becoming team leader. It wasn't an easy road; she had sacrificed countless dreams, countless nights, and countless moments with her loved ones to reach here.

For years, she had worked tirelessly as an assistant manager, all while juggling the role of caretaker-looking after her two cousins and supporting her sister, who, despite being a working woman, shared the weight of their family's responsibilities. Their single mother, a high school teacher, did her best, but as the eldest, Soo-yeon always carried the unsaid expectations of not only her mother but also their relatives and the people around her.

"Are you sure about moving to Seoul for college?" they would ask, their words filled with doubt. "You'll get spoiled living on your own." Others would join in, "Oh, look at her. She's so busy she's forgotten all about us." Even her grandparents questioned her decision to leave their small town for the big city.

But Soo-yeon was determined. She worked hard to save enough money for tuition, staying up late at night balancing her studies and a part-time job. She wasn't even a top student-far from it-but she studied relentlessly, pouring her all into every exam, every assignment, every opportunity. Her average scores in the semester never discouraged her, but the constant weight of expectations did.

"You'll get a job right after completing your degree, right?" they would ask with a pointed gaze. "Your mother works so hard for you to have a better future." Those words stung more than she let on, gnawing at her as she pushed herself forward.

Her life was never just about achieving her dreams; rather, it was about proving she could stand tall against the doubts, the criticisms, and the expectations placed upon her. It was about showing everyone that moving to Seoul, working late into the night, and giving up countless personal joys were worth it. Even if, deep down, she sometimes wondered if it truly was.

But finally, after graduating, she knew that all her sacrifices had been worth it. After completing her degree in business administration, she applied for numerous job positions and finally got at KNJ Food Corporation, a prestigious company she had always dreamed of working for-at least something that she dreamed of came true after giving up on many.

After three years of hard work and countless sleepless nights, Soo-yeon earned a promotion to assistant manager. That turning point not only silenced the relatives who had questioned her choices but also served as a recognizable reminder of her determination. She had proven to herself and everyone else that hard work and dedication could indeed pay off in the end.

And now, as she sat between the laughter and applause of her colleagues, freshly promoted to team leader, Soo-yeon felt the weight of all she had accomplished. This was a victory she had never thought possible.

Yet, it tasted bittersweet. If she hadn't insisted on attending tonight's party, she would probably be at home right now, sharing the news with her family, celebrating with them.

As the eldest, she had always been the anchor, balancing the expectations of her family, the demands of her work, and her own buried dreams. It was never easy-often, it felt impossible. But she had to manage it all-and she did-or at least, she pretended to. For them.

"Congratulations, Ms. Jin," a voice interrupted her thoughts...

Seokjin POV:

"How is it, hyung?" A question came from behind his broad shoulder from Seokjin, making him turn around to see his CEO, aka his best friend, Kim Namjoon, who arranged the whole setup to celebrate his friend's birthday in the name of promotion.

Seokjin rolled his eyes at the younger and said, "I told you to not make a big deal out of it, but thank you."

Namjoon chuckled and replied, "You deserve it, hyung. Enjoy your moment; it's not like you get a promotion every month.

Seokjin pressed his lips into a thin line as they curved to the side, letting out a not-so-irritated breath from his nose, crossing his hands over his chest. It's not like he didn't want to appreciate Namjoon's effort to celebrate his promotion, but he knows it's not about celebrating his promotion; rather, it's about his birthday.

Seokjin's gaze softened as he leaned back slightly against the wall behind him, still processing the mixture of emotions stirring within him. His birthday had always been a quiet occasion-nothing like the extravagant celebrations Jungkook and Namjoon, and sometimes with other friends, enjoyed. But Namjoon, ever the thoughtful one, had insisted on turning it into a combined celebration for both his promotion and his birthday.

"It's fine, Joon-ah," Seokjin said with a faint, lopsided smile. "I appreciate it, really. But you know I don't like all this attention."

Namjoon grinned, clearly enjoying the rare moment of teasing his usually cool friend. "Oh, come on, hyung. You're a totally chill and cool manager at work, but when it's just you, you're like a clam, all introverted and quiet. How do you even manage that?"

"Yeah! Just keep quiet and eat your cake," Seokjin replied with a glare, for which Namjoon chuckled.

"And where is this brat?" Seokjin said as he looked around the room, pretending to be annoyed but secretly touched by his friend's efforts. "Who? "Jungkook?" Namjoon asked, pointing towards the corner where Jungkook was hiding, ready to surprise Seokjin with a birthday gift.
"Mm," Seokjin said, still looking around. "Oh come on, Hyung, he is not a kid anymore," Namjoon teased, knowing how Seokjin always took care of Jungkook like a younger brother-no, he is the younger cousin.

Jeon Jungkook, Seokjin's one and only younger cousin. After losing his parents in a tragic accident when he was just 12, Jungkook became Seokjin's responsibility, and he had raised him like his own sibling ever since.

Seokjin finally spotted Jungkook and rolled his eyes when he saw the mischievous grin on his face. He might have brought up Jungkook, but they are almost like a Tom and Jerry duo, constantly teasing each other, bickering with each other, and yet can't live without each other.

"Yah Jeon! Where have you been?" Seokjin crossed his arms, a mock frown on his face. Jungkook just chuckled and replied, "Just waiting to give a surprise gift for you, hyung."

Seokjin gasped dramatically and lightly pushed Jungkook, knowing full well that their teasing would never end. "You better not have spent all your money on me again," Seokjin teased, earning a laugh from Jungkook.

"Oh, don't worry, hyung; it's your allowance to me, though." Jungkook winked.

"Yah, you little-Ahem, anyway, thank you, my little kookie~" Seokjin said, pulling Jungkook into a tight hug. And after pulling back, Jungkook turned to Namjoon and hugged him. Namjoon furrowed his eyebrows as he tilted his head in confusion.

"Hey, what's this for?" Namjoon asked, a small smile playing on his lips as he returned the hug. Jungkook grinned mischievously, "Just spreading the love, hyung." Seokjin shook his head, the smile never leaving his plump lips.

After that, everyone in the room wished and congratulated Seokjin on his birthday and for his promotion, but his eyes searched for someone. Someone who has been promoted along with him and who he admired for her hard work.

And his eyes finally found her, his team's assistant manager, Jin Soo-yeon, talking over the phone call, her russet brown eyes, which he thought would sparkle with joy, still looked the same as when he first met her-weight.

"Ms. Jin This is your new manager, Mr. Kim." The leader of the team introduced him, "And Mr. Kim, this is Ms. Jin, Jin Soo-yeon, the new assistant manager." She bowed to him with a polite smile, but her eyes showed different emotions, which he felt like he knew. The Weight.

He ignored it; he had worked with her. He had seen her before she got promoted as assistant manager but never talked with her; at that time he didn't know her well. Even after she became assistant manager, he still didn't know her well.

She never took leaves or days off, always staying late to finish her work. He admired her dedication and work ethic, but he couldn't understand why until he got to know she is the eldest of her family. She carried the weight of responsibility on her shoulders, always putting others before herself. This made the respect for her more.

Even when they had a chance to speak, he never took it, nor did she. They always maintained a professional distance, both focused on their work and responsibilities.

Clank, clank.

The sound of a spoon striking glass made him look up from his work, realizing it was her birthday. He saw Namjoon standing confidently at the front of the room, holding the glass and spoon. Seokjin rubbed his temple.

Now what?

He knew Namjoon was about to make a speech, and he couldn't help but wonder what he would say.

"So, today, our best manager, Kim Seokjin, has been promoted to the head manager position, and I couldn't be prouder!" He said, raising his glass in a toast. Seokjin's face almost flushed with embarrassment as everyone in the room erupted into applause, congratulating him again on his promotion.

Ugh, you don't have to make such a big deal out of it, Kim Namjoon! Seokjin thought to himself as he tried to hide his growing smile as he looked at Namjoon, who was staring at Seokjin with a proud smile, showing off his dimple.

Namjoon's gaze turned to the other side from Seokjin's, scanning the room full of happy faces, and stopped at one person, and Seokjin saw his smile growing wider. "And let's not forget another big achievement tonight!" he began, and pointed out his hand on the person in the group.

Seokjin's gaze followed Namjoon's hand and landed on Soo-yeon, who is staring back at Namjoon at mid clap. Soo-yeon's eyes widened in surprise as Namjoon's attention shifted to her. With a faint smile, Namjoon continued, "Our assistant manager, Ms. Jin Soo-yeon, has also been promoted-to deputy head manager!"

The room erupted in applause and cheers as Soo-yeon's promotion was announced. Seokjin couldn't contain his pride as he watched her bow her head slightly at everyone who congratulated her, but her eyes, which were expected to be sparkling with joy and pride, still looked dull even in her bright smile.

Seokjin couldn't help but wonder what was going on in Soo-yeon's mind, despite the hint of happiness. And the celebration continued. Seokjin was talking with some colleagues about the upcoming projects when he noticed Soo-yeon sitting quietly in this crowded room. He excused himself and approached her quietly, not trying to startle her.

After quietly clearing his throat, he spoke up with an ever-so-soft voice, "Congratulations, Ms. Jin." There is a soft smile playing on Seokjin's lips with admiration and pride. Soo-yeon looked up, surprised by Seokjin's presence.

She stood up and bowed slightly before responding, "Thank you, Mr. Kim. Congratulations to you as well on your recent promotion."

Seokjin's smile widened at her gesture of respect, and he replied, "Thank you, Ms. Jin. I look forward to working together on these projects."

"Also, wishing you a very happy birthday!" Soo-yeon said, causing Seokjin's smile to grow even wider. "Thank you so much, Ms. Jin."

"If you excuse me, I would take my leave." She asked him, her voice quite low as if she was exhausted from the long day of work. Seokjin nodded understandingly, "Of course, Ms. Jin. Rest well, and we will catch up tomorrow."

Soo-yeon bowed and turned to leave. Seokjin watched as Soo-yeon made her way out of the room. As she walked away, he couldn't help but wonder how hard she must have worked to get in this position.

"Wow, hyung! Who's she?" The sudden voice of Jungkook made Seokjin jump in little surprise.
"Yah!" he almost shouted at the black-haired younger for startling him. "One day you'll be the reason for my heart stopping, you little brat!" Seokjin grumbled, his hand on his chest, trying to calm the surprise Jungkook had given him.

Jungkook just laughed, unbothered by the reaction. "Come on, hyung, don't be so dramatic. But seriously, who is she? She seems... interesting."

Seokjin narrowed his eyes at Jungkook's mischievous grin. "She's Jin Soo-yeon, my assistant manager-well, now my fellow deputy head manager. And don't even think about it, Jungkook. She's older than you!"

Jungkook waved his hand as if brushing away what Seokjin said, though the teasing glint in his eyes didn't fade. "I know, hyung. I'm just curious. She looks... different."

"Different?" Seokjin asked, arching a brow.

"Yeah," Jungkook said, his tone softer now. "Like, she's here with everyone, but it feels like she's somewhere else entirely. She reminds me of you."

Seokjin blinked at the unexpected observation. "Me?"

Jungkook shrugged, shoving his hands into his pockets. "Yeah, you know, the way you always put on a smile and act all cool, but sometimes... you just look like you're carrying a lot more than you show."

Seokjin fell silent, Jungkook's words hitting closer to home than he cared to admit. He glanced at the door Soo-yeon had just walked out of, her figure still lingering in his thoughts. Maybe Jungkook wasn't wrong-maybe there was something about Soo-yeon that caught with him, something that made him want to understand her better.

Seokjin shook his head, trying to mask the slight unease Jungkook's observation had stirred within him, giving Jungkook a pointed look. "Just shut up and go get Namjoon. We're leaving."

Still grinning, Jungkook gave a mock salute. "Yes, sir. Right away, sir."

But he leaned his back on Jim and whispered, "That noona is beautiful, though."

Seokjin froze for a moment, his jaw tightening as Jungkook's whispered comment hit his ears. He turned sharply to glare at his younger cousin, who was already retreating with a cheeky grin plastered across his face.

"Yah, Jeon Jungkook!" Seokjin called after him, his voice low enough not to draw attention but laced with warning. "You better not-"

Jungkook didn't stop walking, merely waving a hand over his shoulder as if dismissing Seokjin's impending lecture. "Relax, hyung! I'm just saying."

Seokjin sighed deeply, running a hand over his face. That kid was going to drive him insane. Beautiful, though? He shook his head, trying to push the thought away. She's your colleague . Keep it professional, Kim Seokjin.

Still, as he gathered his things and prepared to leave, his gaze involuntarily flickered toward the door Soo-yeon had walked through. He quickly warned himself. Focus. It's just another work relationship. That's all.

But no matter how much he told himself otherwise, her russet brown eyes and calm, yet heavy demeanor stayed in the back of his mind. It's not like he never thought of her, but every time he thinks of her, it feels like he has known her for much longer than he actually has.

Did he really know her, or did he just feel that they had some similarities that were familiar to him?

Jungkook's POV (Monologue, 3rd Person):
He tilted his head, his eyes narrowing as he watched her from across the room. I know her. I've seen her before. But where?The thought nagged at him like a distant memory he couldn't quite remember. The feeling he felt from the time he saw Soo-yeon.

Yes! It's her. He squealed internally, a rush of excitement rushing through him. "I should tell it to Jin hyung," he mumbled to himself with his bunny smile, but quickly it turned into a frown. "Should I?" he questioned himself. Is that even that important to say? He shook his head, deciding to keep the information to himself for now.

"Fine, I'll tell Jin Hyung tomorrow. Let's have a good sleep!" He shrugged his shoulders, pouting his lips before turning off the lights and crawling into bed.