490. 

491.

As soon as Mrs. Park left, he was whisked to a pristine looking room with white, glistening walls and big doors. One side of the room had mirrors and had saloon chairs but the counter top was clean.

Jungkook glanced around the room, taking in the pristine surroundings. The scent of lavender lingered in the air, calming his nerves. He sat down on one of the sleek salon chairs, feeling the soft leather beneath him. The mirrors reflected his image back at him, reminding him of a lost doe in the woods. He honestly didn't know what to expect.

He buried his nose in the hoodie, inhaling his alpha's scent deeper. The omega knew Mr. Park or Jimin was just one call away if the situation got out of hand. Or he could just leave. But he figured this was a necessary evil and wondered if this was Mrs. Park's way of accepting him into the family.

Why else would she want to groom him? He frowned. She might come off as arrogant and uptight, but Jungkook felt her gaze soften every time she looked at him. His wolf didn't think she had any bad intentions.

Jungkook never knew the warmth of his mother and wondered if she would have said the same thing if she was alive. He replayed the whirlwind of conversations unfurled that morning and was lost in his thoughts when the click of the door unlocking pulled him out of it.

He immediately jumped to his feet, brows creasing as he glanced at the middle-aged woman, an alpha that entered the room. Another young omega was hot on her heels. The woman's warm cinnamon scent washed over him and it was neutral. Even her aura was neutral and he couldn't tell if she was friendly or not.

"Jeon Jungkook, age 21, student." The short, stubby woman with stylish burgundy business suit and elegant glasses eyed him from top to bottom. "Hmm..." Her pursed lips twisted side to side. "Flawless skin but it could use a bit of nourishment. Excellent posture. Hair needs a little bit of styling." Her fingers carded through his wavy hair. "Need more maintenance. The roots are healthy, though."

Jungkook felt like a prey under the tiny female alpha's scrutinizing gaze. He shifted uncomfortably, feeling exposed under the intense scrutiny of the woman. He couldn't help but wonder what she was thinking as she analyzed him from every angle. The room was quiet, with only the gentle tapping of the other woman's fingers on the iPad breaking the silence.

He went stiff when she circled him once again.

"Marvelous," she whipped and turned to the young omega beside her, listing out his size as if she just measured him. Jungkook's jaw dropped when she even got his shoe size correct. "What a stunning omega!" she marveled once more. "I must admit, I was expecting some snobby, whiny omega when I was told that Park Junior had chosen a mate. I was fully ready to put up with the tantrums they would throw. Don't mistake me, Darling. His previous taste in partners is questionable." She adjusted her gold rimmed glasses with chains. Then she clapped. "You're one fine omega. I know class when I see one. You... You're a diamond in the rubble and I'm the one who's going to polish you."

"Um..." He blinked owlishly at her, not knowing how to respond to her.

"Oh, how rude of me," she exclaimed. "I'm Han Eun-Jeong." She extended a hand.

"Oh."

Eun-Jeong. His throat tightened. That was his mother's name.

"Park Hye-Jin's personal assistant and stylist for over thirty-five years. I'm also her right hand woman she trusts with her life. My mum was her mum's assistant and my family has been serving hers for decades." She beamed. "And now my daughter, Han Aera, will be your assistant, continuing our lineage." She now sounded like a proud mother instead of a prude personal assistant. "She's trained to handle anything that could come your way and deflect it in a professional manner. She's also going to handle your PR and legal teams."

PR and legal team? Why?

Jungkook took in the information, feeling a mix of surprise and confusion at the unexpected turn of events. Han Eun-Jeong's words echoed in his mind as he tried to process the significance of the situation.

"It's nice to meet you." He bowed. "I appreciate your guidance and support."

"Oh, my, what a fine gentleman. Would you look at that, Aera. He's a gem I tell you."

Jungkook flushed under her praise. It filled him with a sense of validation he did not expect and brought a reassurance he didn't think he needed.

"Jimin's taste has certainly improved." Her expression was one of satisfaction. "I never liked those bitches he's been with before." She rolled her eyes. "So this is a pleasant surprise. And it all took for one regular omega to tame that reckless pup."

Oh.

"Mom..." Aera's tone held a warning.

"Hush, pup. It's a compliment. My mate's sister is married to a regular wolf." She waved a hand. "Your birth status and sub gender doesn't matter." She looked him in the eye. "What matters is how you carry yourself in this society."

Jungkook felt so lost but he nodded along, gaze sweeping around. He didn't know what these classes entailed and all he could worry was about his routine being turned upside down. His throat tightened.

Suddenly Han Eun-Jeong straightened. Her face wore that impassive mask again. "Aera, you can take over from here and walk him through the rest. We will need some tailored suits customized for him in case he's gonna attend public events with his mate. Get some formals and semi formals. Arrange a meeting with some designers this weekend. Also schedule a meeting with our legal and PR team at the earliest. Our first step is to develop contingency plans in case this news is leaked to the media before they're ready to go public."

Jungkook could only blink as she listed the tasks. What's going on?

"Yes, mom." Aera bowed.

Eun-Jeong turned to meet his gaze. "Jungkook-ssi, I'll see you later." She then nodded at Aera before leaving the room.

Once she left Aera looked at him with an apologetic smile. "I'm sorry about that. It's been a whirlwind since last night. We were asked to prepare a team for you. And I was told I'm being promoted as your personal assistant as of this morning."

Jungkook nibbled at his bottom lip. "I'm a student," he emphasized. "Um...I just...why would I need a personal assistant? I don't have any work for you. In fact, I work two other part-time jobs."

Her smile was understanding. "I assume this must be so overwhelming for you," she said. "We just received a call fifteen minutes ago and Mrs. Park only told us that she's bringing in her future son-in-law." Her tone was gentle and friendly. "Considering the look on your face, I think you don't know what's going on here either."

Jungkook nodded affirmatively. "Um...I was supposed to be in my class now." He glanced at his phone. "Mrs. Park said she took care of my classes and was going to reschedule them. I'm clueless."

Aera laughed, a gentle yet melodious tone. And she was gorgeous. She wore a deep red pencil skirt, paired with white, flowing blouse. Her dark hair cascaded down her back in soft waves, framing her delicate features. As she spoke, her eyes sparkled with intelligence and warmth. Her confidence radiated as she moved gracefully around him.

"She can be a bit intense," she agreed. "I've been working as mom's assistant since I graduated university. So I'm used to the way Mrs. Park works. She's very efficient and quick on her feet. It's hard to keep up with her, but mom does it effortlessly. She knows Mrs. Park like the back of her hand and to some extent about Jimin-ssi too. She has known him since he was a pup."

Jungkook nodded, taking that time to observe her. As she spoke about Mrs. Park and Jimin, Jungkook could sense the deep respect and familiarity she had with them. Aera's words painted a picture of a strong, capable woman who navigated her world with confidence and finesse.

The omega was well dressed and well put out. As he observed her, Jungkook couldn't help but notice the subtle details that made Aera stand out. Her impeccable sense of style, paired with her natural beauty, created an aura of sophistication that was hard to miss.

If it wasn't for the permanent pink blush on her cheek bones, he wouldn't have thought she wore any sort of makeup. She was flawless and he sneaked a glance at his form in the mirror secretly.

Jungkook couldn't help but feel a pang of self-consciousness. In his eyes, he saw a stark contrast between his disheveled appearance and her polished elegance. Aera seemed to effortlessly exude a sense of perfection, like a delicate porcelain doll, while Jungkook felt more like a rumpled teddy bear in her presence.

"I'm Han Aera, age 25." She extended a hand. "You can call me Aera or Miss Han. Whatever you're comfortable with."

Jungkook took her hand gently, shaking it, admiring her poise and elegance. He felt a sense of connection with her, drawn to her magnetic presence. It was more like an admiration and he wondered if he could ever exude confidence like her someday.

"You're older than me." He tilted his head to the side. "I can't call you by your name."

Aera smiled. She glanced around and leaned forward. "You can call me noona when we are alone. But when there are others, address me as Miss Han." She straightened. "The upper class works differently and here politeness above a certain limit is seen as weakness."

"Oh." He swallowed. "I didn't know."

She clasped her hands in the front. "Don't worry. That's why I'm here. I see why Mrs. Park enrolled you here. I'm in charge of rescheduling your daily routine to fit your upcoming schedules. I can only imagine how this will disrupt your life as it is. I apologize there isn't much I can do about it right now, but I can promise to make this as easier to process as possible."

Jungkook nodded, still feeling lost. "Why would I need a PR and legal team?" he asked. "What's going on? Am I in trouble?"

His alpha told him someone photographed them together. Was there a leak? He didn't see anything yet.

"Oh, no, you're not in trouble," Aera assured. "Come on. Why don't we sit and talk for a few minutes? What would you like to drink? I'll ask the staff to bring something."

"Coffee? Iced Americano?"

"Sure."

Her reassuring presence brought a sense of calm amidst the chaos. Her warm smile and understanding demeanor helped alleviate some of the tension that had been building up within him.

They sat down in one of the white salon chairs and within minutes, they received a tray of snacks along with coffee.

Aera gestured at him to the refreshments before dismissing the staff. Jungkook grabbed the Iced Americano, sipping it nervously.

"You're nervous and anxious," she observed. "You're biting your bottom lip and bouncing your knee. Your brows are furrowed as if you're wondering if you should stay or leave."

Jungkook's breath caught in his throat and his eyes widened.

"Etiquette classes are part of your preparation for handling the expectations and demands of the upper class," Aera explained gently. "In this world, appearances matter, and knowing the right way to conduct yourself can make a significant difference in how you are perceived and received."

The idea of etiquette classes seemed daunting, but he also understood the necessity of adapting to his new environment.

"As you progress through these classes, you'll learn the art of social grace, proper communication, and the subtleties of behavior that can make or break a situation," Aera continued, her tone encouraging. "It's about more than just following rules; it's about embodying a certain level of refinement and sophistication."

Jungkook took another sip of his coffee, the cool liquid providing a moment of respite amidst the whirlwind of changes happening around him. He knew he had a lot to learn, but this was all sudden and he didn't know how to respond.

Aera watched Jungkook take a sip of his Iced Americano before she began, "Let me explain a bit about the situation first. I think you're still in the dark about certain things. As you might have heard, the media has caught wind of your interactions with Park Junior. They are quite intrigued, to say the least. I don't want you to feel burdened by this attention. Our goal is to manage the narrative and ensure your comfort throughout this process."

Jungkook paused, brows furrowed in concern.

Sipping her coffee, Aera replied, "We will work together closely to craft a strategic approach. Your PR and legal team will help navigate any challenges that may arise. It's all about presenting your story authentically while safeguarding your privacy and reputation."

Jungkook nodded, a glimmer of understanding in his eyes. "I think I understand now."

Aera smiled warmly. "We are a team. You can rely on us to handle this with care and professionalism. As a future Park family member, this is also a general protocol. Mrs. Park has a PR and legal team at her disposal and so would you. Their job is to monitor all forms of the media and prevent or minimize the negative effect caused by an event or series of events," she explained.

"I-I don't understand," he said. "I'm not a celebrity." He blinked. "Nobody knows me."

Aera regarded Jungkook with a gentle understanding in her eyes. "Maybe, but your connection to the Park family brings with it a level of visibility and scrutiny that you may not have experienced before. It's not about being a celebrity; it's about being a figure of interest," she explained.

She tapped on her iPad, pulled out some information and handed it to him.

Jungkook's eyes widened and heart stopped seemingly at the sight of those condescending articles.

"Park Jimin's new fling is a college student."

"Students engaging in mutually beneficial relationship with chaebol heirs is becoming a thing. The latest in this list is Park Jimin and this regular omega. "

"The promiscuous heir of the Park family now has a new beau and we doubt things are not as it seems."

"Did Park Jimin knock up this unknown omega? Words on the street claims he's been overprotective and extremely low-key about this entire affair."

Jungkook stopped and had to re-read the article again. What the hell! Suddenly Mrs. Park's demeanor at the doctor's office made sense. He understood why that was their first stop and why she insisted he should be on birth control.

Oh, God. This is horrible.

He didn't even realize the severity of his relationship with Jimin. While he expected people to blame him, he didn't think they would attack Jimin like this.

"Know everything about Jimin's latest fling. This time it's a downgrade."

"Park Jimin's deteriorating taste in sex partners. Chaebol heir hooks up with a regular omega at a private club."

"Know everything about Jimin's latest fling. This time it's a downgrade."

"Park Jimin's deteriorating taste in sex partners. Chaebol heir hooks up with a regular omega at a private club."

The list went on.

Aera reached out as if sensing his distress. Her fresh apple scent wafted toward him as she released calming pheromones. She put a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "These are some articles Mrs. Park took down last night. She didn't sleep a wink and her PR team has worked tirelessly considering this was a matter of urgency."

"I-I didn't know." Jungkook took in her words, a mix of apprehension and curiosity flickering across his features. "So, what do I do now?" he asked, a hint of uncertainty in his voice.

"You might not be a celebrity but Jimin-ssi is. He's in the public eye for so long and they watch his every move like a hawk. His previous reputation isn't helping either. You came into their rador as soon as you were in Jimin-ssi's life. It's essential to remember that facing challenges is a part of being in the public eye. What matters most is how we handle the situation and navigate through it with grace and resilience." She then guided Jungkook through the information on her iPad, showing him the strategies that could be implemented to address the negative articles. "We have a strong support system here to help you every step of the way. Remember, you are not alone in this," Aera emphasized with a comforting smile.

He listened attentively. A sense of relief flooded him. He understood why he was brought here. Taking a deep breath, he braced himself for what was about to come his way.

Once they finished their coffee she stood. "Shall we?"

Jungkook nodded. Though he didn't think he was ready, he understood he had to look the part to protect Jimin's reputation. He stood up, his mind still processing everything Aera had just shared with him.

The building was quite big and he gazed at the impressive interior with wonder. "I have sent an email to the PR and Legal team. They should be here any moment. While we wait, I'll introduce you to the other staff who would be working for you."

"For me?" Jungkook cast a puzzled glance at her.

Aera smiled. "Yes, Jungkook-ssi. Starting today, you're our boss. Remember, every staff member inside this building works for you now. They're obligated to be at your beck and call."

"Oh...I-I...oh..."

The omega chuckled. "It's a part of being Park Jimin's mate. I'm here to help you get used to this side of life now."

He nodded nervously. As they walked through the grand lobby, Aera pointed out where everything was and for what purpose it was used. The building obviously belonged to the Park family and housed several commercial establishments apart from the offices they used.

Mrs. Park's PR and legal team worked here and Aera informed him that they were working hard to form a new team for him at short notice. Fifteen minutes later, she checked her phone and announced that his team was ready for the meeting.

As they neared the meeting room, she suddenly stopped. "Rule number one: You do not bow in greeting unless you're greeting someone older than you and of your status. When you enter the meeting room, you must incline your head as a form of greeting."

Jungkook nodded.

As they entered the meeting room, Jungkook took a deep breath to steady his nerves.

"Hello everyone, please allow me to introduce Jeon Jungkook, our new boss," she announced to an expectant looking group of professionals. "Jungkook-ssi, here is the future son-in-law of the Park family if you aren't already aware." She then turned to face Jungkook. "Jungkook-ssi, this is your team."

Jungkook felt a mix of excitement and trepidation as he took his seat at the head of the table. The team members greeted him respectfully, and he inclined his head as Aera had instructed.

As opposed to his expectation, they greeted him warmly. Aera introduced him to the key members of the PR and legal team, each offering a friendly smile and a firm handshake.

As the meeting progressed, Jungkook found himself immersed in discussions about the strategies to address the negative articles.

Throughout the meeting, Aera remained by Jungkook's side. Her calm demeanor anchored him as he listened keenly.

Once the meeting concluded, they left the meeting room and he released a breath he didn't realize he was holding. His head swam and the debate was worse than Mr. Hendrick's team discussion. But soon it was over.

"You did great," Aera complimented. "But I think that's enough for your first day." She glanced at her branded watch. "You should head back and get some rest. Your car will be waiting downstairs and I'll text you the driver's number. Mrs. Park wants you to quit all the side hustle and focus only on your education. So we have taken care of your part-time jobs as well."

Huh?

"You'll soon have a bank account created in your name and funds transferred from the Park family resources. Mrs. Park has instructed us to transfer some of her shares in your name to start with."

"W-What?" he stammered.

"Sorry, part of being Jimin-ssi's mate." Aera smiled apologetically.

Jungkook cleared his throat. "Is everyone given the same treatment?" He glanced around. "How many omegas were in here before me?"

Aera laughed out upon hearing that. "Oh, trust me, Jungkook-ssi, no one has ever got past Mrs. Park's radar. The door you see over there... no one has ever crossed that threshold. They can't without Mrs. Park's approval."

"So...she approves of me?"

Aera's features softened. "You wouldn't be here otherwise." She patted his hand.

Jungkook couldn't help but feel a mix of astonishment and apprehension. The realization that his life was about to take a drastic and unimaginable turn left him speechless.

Despite the uncertainties that clouded his thoughts, Jungkook couldn't deny a flicker of excitement upon knowing she approves of him as opposed to how Jimin was fearing her reaction. He sighed.

Bidding farewell, Jungkook soon left the building and all the staff, ignoring how everyone seemed to recognize him now and bow at him. His heart was stuck in his throat somehow as he whizzed to the waiting car, almost jumping inside and shutting the door behind him.

He clutched his chest, taking several deep breaths.

"Where to, sir?"

He whipped his head up. His driver was an alpha, who looked like he would double as a bodyguard if needed. Tall and buff, wearing a black suit.

"Dorm," Jungkook whispered and sat back, clenching his jaw. He whipped his phone out, opening the chat with his friends. He needed to get it out of his system first. Then he could freak out later in the dorm.

Yep, that's what I'm gonna do.

***

Conducted a poll on Twitter asking which update readers wanted today and OSC won the poll. Sorry Babysitting guide lovers. I'll see what I can do today. My time is limited.