Chapter 3


Unpuzzle my lego
At a level where it can't return 
to its original shape



You stood up, your heart aching with agony and melancholy. This was by far the most painful day you've ever had.

You walked to your door, unlocked it, and went to your shelf, where you put your bag. Still sniffing your tears away, you open your handbag and clean your face with a wet wipe before retouching your make-up in your small make-up mirror.

Your eyes are red-rimmed, so you put on your reading glasses to conceal the pain in your eyes. Your gaze darted over your cherished workplace, and you took the time and effort to customize it in a professional yet homey way. 

Rose has a better chance of getting this job, and she and Kai are currently sharing an art department workspace.

You sighed deeply and sat down at your desk to begin typing your resignation letter. You couldn't believe you'd lost the only job that had given you a chance. For nearly two years, this has been your second home and family. 

The agency that helped you grow as a person and advance in life. Tears welled up in your eyes once more, but you wiped them away angrily. You must be tough right now.

Jeon Jungkook would be unable to break your spirit, and he will not be able to crush you. You will triumph over all adversity. Perhaps this will work in your favour since you will no longer be victimized by wealthy clientele. You had to cope with perverted clientele that seeks favours in exchange for contracts.

You worked hard to reach where you are now, and you will have to start all over again. But where exactly? Should you leave Seoul and try your luck elsewhere? Is it necessary for you to leave Seoul and try your luck in Busan? The Jeons family mansion is in Busan, not Seoul. There is no way. Their matriarch may interfere and close more doors for you. You need a job that will not put you in jeopardy. Something low-key. Somewhere where no one knows who you are. A CEO's assistant could work in an industry other than advertising.

 You, on the other hand, hold a master's degree in Advertising and Media. You can't just throw away your hard-earned master's degree. You leaned back in your chair, wiping your hair backwards.

 It felt as if the carpet had fallen from beneath your feet. You have no idea where to start or what to do with your life right now.

What will Jihyo think? You've already agreed to stay with her until your debt is paid off so that you can put down a large deposit on an apartment. You can't be a squatter for life. You only plan to stay with her for six months, and her apartment is small. She needs her living space. Your little niece is still sleeping in the same room as you.

Your future was once so promising, but now it's all gone downhill. You and Jihyo must continue to pay your mother's medical expenses, and it isn't easy. You won't be able to save for your apartment after paying the bills and handing Jhiyo money for some living expenses.

Lalisa has already moved into her opulent apartment. She has wealthy parents who still give her six-figure pocket money, and she has never faced financial difficulties in her life. Two millionaire businessmen are currently pursuing her, and even if it pains you to think about it, she has caught the attention of Jungkook.

 Even if he is engaged, he is still a man who knows the allure of a beautiful lady. Lalisa was the most popular of the girls at your high school, but she opted to make friends with the quiet nerd with glasses. She might have stayed with the Populars, but after you helped her pass Math and saved her from an embarrassing incident, she wanted to be your friend. You've been friends since Y2, and you love her as a sister.

You were too bashful to date in high school, but a fellow science nerd fell in love with you...but he emigrated to the United States to study science. He was the one who never made you feel bad about yourself by continually sending you a surprise present on Valentine's Day. A small card, a rose, and heart-shaped chocolate. Until you got to university and your fate changed, not knowing your paths would lead to disaster.

You could feel a terrible migraine coming on. Oh my gosh, what have you done to deserve this?  You forwarded the letter to your boss. Your poor employer was at a loss for what to do. However, you will need the account. You're hoping the Jeons doesn't take advantage of your agency.

Your foster mother taught you always to be kind to others. Love will make your life easier and more enjoyable. You scoff quietly to yourself. True, but love just brought you anguish and misery. You want to despise the Jeons so severely, but you're not a vindictive person.

The only crime you committed was your intense Love for Jungkook. As you pondered on the cold looks, he gave you, and it was as if a sword had pierced your heart. That was the moment you realized there was a fine line between love and hatred. Jungkook loathes, no, hates you.

Perhaps you should just leave the country and return to Tokyo, where you completed your master's degree. Possibly the Jeons' influence does not extend to Tokyo.

You silently stood up and walked to the large open window. Looking at the white snow that has fallen on the streets, the window panes, and you wish you could be transformed into a snowflake. You'll be free and a part of the whiteness all around you. 

Your boss could be preoccupied with finalizing the deal. You're thrilled for Mr Kang. You all longed for a breakthrough, and now you've finally landed the contract, but you won't be involved in the execution of the entire process. 

Lalisa must assume control. It remains to be seen how she will pull it off. She is short on details and analytics. You feel terrible for them.

You sigh dejectedly. You became aware of a presence in your office. You furrowed your brow and nearly died of a heart attack. Mr Jeon was standing with his arms folded in all his magnificence.

 Your breath becomes painfully caught in your throat, and you feel your heart constricting when you contemplate the low blow he dealt with you. As you put on your Chanel jacket, you scoff. You just want to get away and lick your wounds in peace.

"Did you come to deliver another underhanded blow to me?... Now that you've exacted your revenge, please leave me alone..." With a strained voice, you mumble.

As he approaches you, he scoffs sharply and shuts the door. When he was standing in your personal space, your eyes widened, and you moved a bit backwards. You press your lips together tightly, yet you can't help but feel nervous because of his proximity. You kept your gaze fixed on him, and his stare is narrowed into yours.

"You were always a tough cookie...Jenna, but it's shameful that behind this innocent..." he says with a slight sneer on his lips. He painfully grabs your chin with his hand and pulls your face towards his. You could feel his uneven breath on your face, the pull that caused your body to collide with his, "...behind that face is a dishonest and malicious heart...sickening" it's with an icy scowl, he pulls his hand back.

You gave him the coldest look you'd ever given him. "So, how about you?... Mr Mightier than Might! You're just as shrewd. You use me as a bargaining chip to get even with me. You had no intention of giving us the deal. You chose us because you were aware that Lynx was my agency...y..you..." Your resolve had become thin, and your voice had cracked.

"Yes, ice princess, I always know what you're up to," he adds coldly. "Did you sleep your way up to get all those contracts?...how come agencies like Red Cherry and Mandate, which are known for having the most imaginative and brilliant ad executives, are constantly losing out...so that's who you are right after you got what you came for...you a cheap slut!"

Shock washes over your face as you lift your hand and slap him across the face. The hit causes his eyes to widen."How dare you!... You arrogant jerk! I'll never humiliate myself in that way.  I may not be that sexy...but I have higher expectations. My only regret right now is that I lowered my standard...by being with you!" 

What the hell!!! You're not working for Liquid Gold, the company that employed that filthy method. The audacity to accuse you of such a thing. He was the only man that you've ever been with.

Your hand stung, but it was one of the most gratifying sounds you'd heard in a long time.

Jungkook grabbed your wrist tightly and wiped his cheek with his other hand, playing tongue-in-cheek as if the stinging agony would go away. His piercing eyes were filled with rage as he gazed into your teary eyes. You knew you'd awoken the dragon within him.

Jungkook tilted his head, and his tone was vicious. "You haven't seen anything yet, sweetheart! This city will grow to be too small for you. If I were you, I'd buy a cheap train ticket back to Incheon's slums, where you belong. You're a fake... I must have been cursed ever to date the likes of you. "He spat it out.

Every word he spoke was like a knife piercing sinews, marrow, and bone. You could feel a stinging sensation behind your eyelids, and it's as simple as blinking it away.

 You tried to loosen your wrist, but his hand drew you closer to him. As you locked eyes, your heart was beating from the familiarity. Various emotions were blazing in both of your eyes. As his gaze pierced yours, you could see his jaws clenched.

You were speechless because you were so hurt. You didn't even want to bring yourself lower by retaliating with harsh remarks. Your eyes were filled with pain, but you vowed not to cry in front of the man you once loved with all your heart...and still have feelings for...but suddenly you sensed a new emotion...dislike. You despise him as you've never despised him before.

You press your lips together as you stare at him. "Jungkook, you are right; I was never your type...I was never good enough. You exacted your bloody revenge; got me fired...you ruined my life...are you ecstatic right now? ...just go celebrate with your family now..." Your voice breaks, but you don't care anymore," please let me be." You stated gently, your voice deflated. You're sick of these feuds. It's exhausting.

"And to think I loved you passionately... yet with that same intensity, it is how I despise you right now," he said as he let go of your wrist as if a viper had just bitten him. He turns his back on you as he walks to the door, but before he opens it, without turning back to you, you hear the most ominous words that will only lead to your demise.

"Watch your back!"  He then left the room, slamming the door behind him.

Your legs wanted to give up, and you collapsed once more on the sofa, this time with your hands entwined and your face down, tears flowing down your cheeks.

You knew he wasn't over the "deception" and how much he must hate you at this point. How are you going to bridge the gap between you and forgiveness? The bridge is destroyed.

It wasn't long before Lalisa was panting and running into your office. As she collapsed on the sofa next to you and tightly clutched you, you gently gazed up at her. You seemed to be out of your element, and it's almost as though nothing matters at the moment.

"Oh, Jenna...Mr. Jeon appeared to have left your office. What took place? He had the appear murderous...  Jenna, please tell me...what in the world happened today?" Jenna, could you please tell me...what happened today ?" She was gently shaking your arm, and her huge, beautiful eyes were looking at you, begging you to make her understand the seriousness of the situation.

You give her a sidelong glance. "It was what it was, Lalisa... all you needed to know was that it was a Jeons' revenge plot. Don't be concerned because it has nothing to do with you or the company. Did he sign the contract?" you said, sluggishly standing.

Lalisa was still mystified; something didn't add up,"  I had to recreate the documents, leaving out your name as a member of the team. The boss man wasn't impressed, yet it was our dream to get that account. Your fantasy dream...Jenna, You made it happen by sacrificing your career...why did you just walk away? This was our opportunity to forge a partnership. It was the agreement. Now consider this. Mr. Jeon is handsome, yet he was unjust and unfair seemed as if he despised your mere presence... I'm not sure what he meant. You did an excellent job. I made a few mistakes, but you were flawless-"

You sigh heavily," I had to make a decision that would benefit not just the company but also the employees, Lalisa. This account will more than triple their income. Rose and her husband will be able to move out of their cramped outdoor room in his mother's backyard and into their dream home. Kai can now marry his girlfriend...and you can upgrade your fancy vehicle to the Tesla or whatever you want to call it. The agency can move forward and complete the additional offices, recruit more staff, and even promote the tea lady to an admin worker... it's a win-win situation. I'm thrilled for all of you." You take a pained gulp. You won't be able to join the agency in celebrating—your most extensive account to date.

It's a difficult pill to swallow. After weeks of research into the Jeons' shipping company, and how many all-nighters your team has been working, Roses' husband had to collect her after 9 p.m. You've given up your time, sleep, and personal funds for what? To be discarded like an old dishrag.

Lalisa shook her head and said, "It wouldn't be a triumph without you, Jenna. I can't handle this account on my own. Mr Jeon wants me to come to the Jeon Shipping Head Office twice a week until the commercial is complete..."

You appeared stunned. "What! Why should you go to his company? Here at Lynx, we always work for our clients."

"That's what Bossman wanted to know, too," Lalisa said, shaking her head.

In your mind, a light went off without a doubt. You make a snort. Jungkook wanted to get to your only friend.   Turning her against you, and if his mother is aware of your and Lalisa's relationship, she will use her against you.

You are unable to tell Lalisa anything about your past at this time. It's just too painful. She is completely unaware of your relationship with the youngest Jeon. How are you going to come clean? Few people were aware of your involvement, and you kept it private.

You wanted to scream in frustration right now. How low can you go?

"Perhaps he wants to make sure you do well. Lalisa, you'll ace it. Lynx is pleased to have you as its top graphic design executive." You give her a shoulder pat.

"Are you insane, Jenna...that family of his is like live sharks? They gave me the shivers. What if I make a mistake and we lose the account? You are the genius in this case. I...I lack your skills. You can't resign, Jenna.. . Kai is a nervous wreck already. Mr Jeon made him quite uncomfortable. He can't operate without your guidance. You are our leader...oh my gosh!!!..." she tossed her hair out of her face as she threw her arms in the air dramatically.

You smile bitterly," Jungkook...er Mr Jeon implied that I'm overrated, so perhaps I grew too self-assured in my estimate of myself. Lalisa...I'd like to take you guys out to lunch, but I'm not in the mood to celebrate... I'll call you when you're available. I need some alone time right now." You grabbed your handbag and your laptop.

"This is not right," laments Lalisa. She mumbles. You simply shrugged. You take a deep breath in as Kai rushes in like a whirlwind. He walked right up to you and gave you a bear embrace, and you and Lalisa were taken aback by his sincerity.

"Oh, my goodness! This day was straight out of a kdrama. Jenna. What are you planning to do? Mr Jeon pulled a quick one. Why?" He appeared to be as perplexed as the rest of your team. You don't have the stamina to explain.

"I'm going to go home and sleep this nightmare away, and then I'm going to wake up, drink a six-pack of Soju, weep myself to sleep again, stand up, and do it all over again... and then gorge myself on Kimchi...then cry some more...complaining about my wretched life...then go online and buy all the clothing I'll never wear and return them the same day...yeah! How great... I can't wait to start living my crazy fabulous life..." You rant loudly...until you burst into uncontrolled cries. Lalisa and Kai both went over to you and hugged you while you sobbed your heart out.

Kai soothingly rubbed your back. "You'll get through it-"

There was a knock on your door, and you spotted the boss man's PA there. The group quickly becomes entangled in themselves. You take a moment and wipe your eyes.

"Please excuse me, Ms Song. Mr. Kang needs to meet you right away." She smiled, turned around, and left the room. You exhale a long sigh. Smilingly turn to face your team.

"Thank you for all of your help, guys. I can't leave without saying goodbye to Bossman. "You took your bags and threw your thick cream coat over your arm and went to your boss's office.

He was staring out the window, his brow furrowed. You glance at his tense back and wonder what's the massive deal. Your boss was expected to be overjoyed.

"Sir?" You made a slight knock on his door.

Mr Kang turns around and smile. But there was a little "something" in his eyes.

"Come in, dear... shut the door." He beckons you in. You looked puzzled, but you obeyed and walked into his office. 


Mr Kang smiled as he took a seat behind his desk, gesturing to one of the leather seats in front of him.

"You wanted to see my Sir?" you ask, looking at him.

" Song, you are one of the most outstanding Execs I have worked with within this company. We went through ups and downs as an agency. When we lost a deal, we cried, and when we won an account, we rejoiced. Today's events were such a bittersweet turn of events. Thank you for securing this account...but why did you prevent me from declining? You are more valuable than the Jeon billions." He still looked conflicted. But you feel the fondness of this man entering your heart. He can't seem to let you go. But that is the deal.

"Lynx worked hard for it, and it was presented to us on a silver platter," you smirk. "Victory against the significant agencies is more important to me than anything else, and Lynx Advertising has done it once more."

"We did it," the boss exclaims." Your pitch was impressive."

The boss man is well-versed in every vivid detail of your past. He's like a father figure to you. after each minor victimization, mudslide, and loss you had to bear, Only the most intimate details of your relationship remained secret.

"Yeah. I assumed it would end at some point eventually. He got his revenge. I believe he'll also use Lalisa. Kia, too. I...don't think Seoul is a welcoming place for me... Lynx was my anchor in this situation. I'm out of options... Mr. Kang, and Mrs. Jeon honored her promise. She'll make certain that no one hires me. You believed in me, and for that, I am grateful." You express your gratitude quietly.

Mr. Kang grinned, and his eyes sparkled. "It's not the end of the world, my dear. I have a proposal for you."

"What....but the deal?" your eyes widened.

He clapped his hands. "I don't mind... Remember, you resigned. In my own company, I'm still in command. Our deal was a partnership. Wait a minute....pay attention. I want you to start your own business...sort of like an advertising consultancy. You and your team can design our pitches under your company's name, and we will pay you. Jenna. You are a genius. More advertising firms could benefit from your services. You may direct the Jeon project without personally being involved."

Your eyes began to well up as you stared at him in stunned silence...wow, "Really...You give me a partnership as if it were a contract with Lynx. This is so weird to be operating for my own company, and I'm starting my own company. Oh my goodness! Yes, I take up the challenge."

He looked at you serious, "On one condition, however...nobody must know yet." Allow a month for planning. I'll look into getting you a place to do business. You can get Kai and possibly Rose because Lalisa has already committed to this project with Jeons. I'll pay their salaries till you're self-sufficient for a year. The Jeons will undoubtedly have spies on you. Take it easy for a month. Have coffee in the mornings, and let others see you wandering around, supposedly looking for work. Go to coffee places and casually mention that you are trying to find work. They'll keep you under the radar. Then you strike as the CEO of your own business."

"I'm at a loss for words. Sir, thank you... You've saved my life yet again. I assumed I was doomed for the rest of my life. I'm not sure how I can repay you, sir." You looked at Bossman with admiration and gratitude.

"All you have to do is kick some billionaires in the buttocks. That boy still has affections for you. Why does he want your attention by purposefully hurting you? He's still hurt because of what I witnessed," He noticed your confused expression. Jungkook no longer loves you, and he despises you to the core. The boss man is oblivious that Jungkook has sharpened his knives for you.

You shook your head. " Yeah...with us, there is no hope. Mr Kang, he  despises me. I prefer to keep a low profile. I'll return tomorrow to clear up my office.'

"Don't worry, just relax—sleep in late. You've deserved it, and I'll delegate the task to Kai." He rose and extended his hand to cement the deal. You smiled and shook his hand.

"Welcome, to our world, Ms. CEO," he says brightly.


..........

A/n Another quick update for fans of the CEO series. Feel free to vote and leave comments. Thank you very much for all of your support.

Please vote so that the family can get to know all of my new readers, as well as those who are silent readers.

Thank you to everyone who has added the book to their reading list. You are amazing. Don't forget to read check out  Yoongi FF's CEO book "The Stoic Custodian." It's a part of a series.

Question 1: What is Jungkook's motivation for allowing Lalisa to join his company?

Question 2: Do you think you'll be able to pull it off?

Question 3: Do you believe Jungkook is still in love with you, and if so, why?

Question 4: Do you think Jungkook's revenge was satisfying?

Question 5: How do you feel about Mr Kang?













Bạn đang đọc truyện trên: AzTruyen.Top