Hectic days, keeping myself busy
Distraction filled schedule

When you got home, you sobbed in your sister's arms after startlingly confessing what happened during the pitch. You were sitting in the TV lounge. Jihyo was gobsmacked. She couldn't believe the Jeons stooped so low.

Jihyo brewed you a cup of tea to help soothe your distress. Your eyes held deep-seated pain as you accepted a tissue from her outstretched hand. Next to you on the sofa lay several damp tissues, evidence of your emotional turmoil. Thankfully, your young niece slept soundly, oblivious to her beloved aunt's inner turmoil.

"I... Jihyo, I poured my heart into that project, you know? The late nights and endless effort... Why does he still hold such animosity towards me?" You sobbed into her comforting embrace.

"I wish I knew, sis. It's been two years... Why can't he just let go and move on? He's already exacted enough revenge since the breakup." Jihyo's brow furrowed in confusion as she spoke.

"I had no clue he harboured such animosity, parading his billions in front of Mr Kang like that. Our agency was desperate for those funds. I couldn't let such a lucrative opportunity slip away. Winning that account will shake up the top agencies." You took one final sniffle and blew your nose.

"So, what's your game plan now? You had so many aspirations. Getting your place, continuing to excel in your field... This is huge. And you're a savvy investor, ready for any rainy days ahead. You know you're welcome to stay as long as you need." Your sister beamed at you with pride and affection.

You managed a slight grin, appreciating your supportive sister. "Thanks, Jihyo. But I can't stay here forever. Your place is already cramped for three. Mr. Kang wants me to start my own company. But why does the unknown scare me so much, Ji?"

"Being your boss is amazing. I can help you with your business plan or connect you with someone who can, at least on paper. So, are you thinking of starting an advertising agency?" Your sister's excitement was palpable upon hearing about your new venture.

You felt a wave of relief. "Kind of. I can get everything ready and kick off next week. Mr. Kang stressed the need for secrecy. We can't let the Jeon clan catch wind of it; they'd sabotage everything. And I'm wary of the banks. Jungkook's sister-in-law's father holds much sway in the banking world. I'll be denied if they catch wind of my loan applications."

"There is no need to deal with the banks. Stick to your old student account at Woori Bank. It's a smaller institution with less scrutiny. Focus on reinvesting your money before seeking loans. Are you still with KB Kookmin Bank?" Her enthusiasm to help you get started was infectious, but you were too drained today. You planned to take a few days to rest before diving into reorganizing your life.

"Sure, I'll withdraw a few thousand won and invest in Woori. Mr. Kang suggested starting with Kai and Rose, with him covering their expenses. But it seems Lalisa will still handle the Jeon account. Today, Jungkook seemed quite taken with her... I'm not sure if it was intentional to hurt me, but it worked. I'm concerned the Jeons might try to drive a wedge between us." You let out a scoff.

"Wait, she doesn't know about your history with Jungkook?" Your sister was surprised. "Isn't there a sort of 'girl code' against pursuing a friend's ex?"

You furrow your brow. "She only knows my side of the story about Jungkook. And she's already smitten by him?"

Jihyo grinned slyly. "So, he's still a bit of a heartthrob... Do you still have feelings for him, Jenna? That would be quite a dilemma." She looked genuinely concerned as she asked.

You nodded, feeling conflicted. How could you not? He was your first and last boyfriend who truly cared for you... Remember how you both planned to elope after graduation?

"I still love him, Ji, but I desperately need to move forward. My heart is shattered, but I can't rely on someone else to mend it. I want to give my heart fully to someone new, free from the past... But how long will it take to heal?" You sighed, rising from your seat to retreat to your bedroom. Thankfully, your niece was asleep in her mother's room.

You can improve your business profile until Jihyo finds a suitable professional.

"Let me go rest, Ji; we'll chat afterwards." You give your sister a warm hug.

"Okay, I'll start cooking supper... go rest or sort out your company details, and we'll discuss over dinner, okay? Don't worry. Everything will work out in the end. Forget about the Jeons and their pettiness. There will be those who refuse to be bribed by that matriarch." She returns your embrace. You shrugged, hoping that your life would find purpose after this fateful day.

You worked on your portfolio for half of the day. Kai called to check in on how you're doing so far. You reassured him, though you weren't okay. Rose was terrified when she realized you'd been fired. She couldn't believe what she was hearing. You hope she takes care of herself and doesn't upset herself or her baby. You've already been chosen to be the godmother for the adorable little unborn girl.

Lalisa also called to inquire about your well-being. She mentioned that the Jeons had contacted her and wanted her to start coming to their office the next day to work with Jungkook's twin sister on the account and marketing ideas. Lalisa sounded anxious. She did not wish to work with that family.

You promised to assist Lalisa in launching her idea but emphasized the importance of keeping your involvement confidential. You provided her with the names of marketing and production companies to get the shoot started. 

After that, you notified FLIX Productions that Lalisa would lead the auditions, and they were surprised to learn that you had left Lynx Advertising. However, you assured them that Lalisa and your team could handle the account. Lalisa expressed her appreciation for your continued dedication to the project. 

Later, Mr. Kang emailed you a list of available office addresses in different cities, including Ulsan, Osong, Busan, Songdo, and Yeongjong. 

The advertising industry was taken aback when it was announced that Lynx Advertising had won the prestigious account. But the real shock came when it was revealed to the media that you, Jenna Song, had been fired from Lynx and that Lalisa was now leading the Jeon project. 

This news was confusing, and there were many rumours about why Lynx would let you go. Some viewed you as too timid for leadership, while others recognized your potential and speculated that you were now employed by a rival company offering better benefits.

You could shake your head and dismiss all the emails from industry friends inquiring about what transpired. Even news outlets were keenly interested in the gruesome details of your termination.

Resentment toward the Jeons was only natural. They compelled you to sever ties with your Lynx family and tarnished your reputation. Da-hee, the Jeon matriarch, ensured every ad agency received a warning: "Avoid this individual; they bring misfortune or employ unethical tactics to secure clients." However, despite these obstacles, Lynx secured the account thanks to Lalisa's relentless efforts. Ms. Song may have seemed unprepared and unprofessional, but Lalisa's well-executed pitch, brimming with fresh and innovative ideas, clinched the deal.

The blatant lies left you seething as they attempted to depict you as incompetent and unprofessional. If only they knew the depth of your knowledge—the meticulous research you conducted on their corporation, uncovering vulnerabilities and shortcomings hidden from their adversaries.

After two weeks, the snow has melted, bringing warmer temperatures. You feel more relaxed and excited to kickstart your new venture. Your company has been officially registered, and your business plan and profile are in top shape.

You've named your company "Moonflower Consultancy" after your fondness for exotic flowers.

Opting for casual attire, you wear a black and white flannel shirt paired with a soft grey polo neck, as the weather is still chilly. Your hair is pulled back into a ponytail. Following Mr. Kang's advice, you dress modestly, aiming to blend in as though you're unemployed and seeking employment. You can't help but grin at Mr. Kang's logic—he wants you to be noticed, especially in Gangnam, home to numerous affluent and trendy businesses and cafes.

Mr. Kang recommended a new trendy coffee shop launched by the well-known model/actor Lee Jung Suk in Gangnam's Sinsangdong district. You feel confident about finding your way there, especially since Jihyo has loaned you her car. Though Lalisa had initially planned to take you and Rose to the coffee shop, a scheduling conflict led to Rose and Lalisa bringing Kai along instead.

Lalisa mentioned that all the waiters at the coffee shop are male models. The ambience is cosy and inviting, with a dining area on the top floor. It exudes a hip, stylish, lively vibe—a perfect relaxing spot for working on your laptop.

You exchanged greetings with several customers, some casting concerned glances while others wore smug smiles, recalling the once-glorious Jenna. They may think you've lost your touch, but little do they know about the grand debut you're planning in the corporate world.

The worst news of your life came through a call from Mr. Kang. The Jeon firm had approached Lalisa to lead their marketing division after the Lynx project, and she was contemplating the offer. The sense of betrayal cut deep. She hadn't even reached out to you, consumed as she was with the commercial shoot. Mr. Kang expressed regret that the Jeons had managed to manipulate Lalisa against you.

As you sat in the upscale coffee shop, 89 Mansions, savouring a hazelnut café latte and indulging in a chocolate croissant while working on your laptop, you couldn't shake the feeling that the Jeons had influenced your somewhat airheaded friend. You wondered what lies they had spun about you and their son, and if they had revisit up the past.

You were so busy working on your laptop making appointments with the estate agencies concerning a prime location for your new consultancy office. You want it to be trendy. Preferably a two-story office block with additional offices for your new crew. 

Ulsan-city

You considered at least three locations to relocate and set up your offices. You were in a good mood. Because of the location, the Ulsan office was a little costly. It amounted to 1.2 million won every month. You don't want to fall into debt right now, even if you can afford it with a reasonable loan. You do have enough money to cover a year's rent. But you want to obtain a good car and a place to live. 

Unfortunately, due to the new office spaces, you cannot purchase the apartment and must instead rent until you can buy it.

Songdo was another option, but your heart is set on Ulsan, around three hours from Seoul. You are leaving the bustling city of Seoul to start a new life. It will be challenging to leave your sister behind and relocate. 

Perhaps you can find her a better job and an apartment nearby. The schools aren't too bad, so she might be able to find a good choice for your young niece.

Just as you were ready to close your laptop, you heard a throat clearing in front of you. You motioned for the waiter to bring your bill to you. Your eyes widen as you notice the famous owner standing before you. You'd heard he was attractive, but seeing him in front of you made your heart skip a beat. In your flustered expression, he softly smiles.

" Isn't it Ms Song? Did you enjoy your coffee at our place?' He has a bright smile on his face as he looks at you.

"Er...yes, that's me," you blush at his look. "I adore your shop... It's so vibey and warm."

He grins, his pearly teeth gleaming." Well, don't be a stranger, and please come back. And...the coffee is on us."

"Wow...thank you, Mr Lee" Your eyes widen at his kindness. 

"The name is Jung Suk," he chuckles. 'I've been hearing a lot about your, Ms Song?'

You sighed profoundly and grimaced. Your heart sank. Maybe he heard all the negative things about you. But you flash a broad smile and say, "Oh, really now."

"Oh yes, really," he laughs."I know you're a formidable woman in advertising and marketing. I want to expand my enterprise to Busan and Ulsan. It's a shame you're no longer associated with Lynx Advertising. I would visit Mr Kang for a marketing proposal, but he said you could drop by anytime during the week and help me develop an intriguing advertising pitch for my coffee shops. He informed me that you will still support me even if you are no longer with him." He looks at your surprised expression. Mr Kang set her up here at this coffee shop. He recognized that you needed to have a well-known individual in your portfolio who is better than a prominent male model/actor to gain the necessary exposure and credibility.

You smiled and motioned for him to take a seat.

"Mr Lee, you've come to the right place. Can I offer you my business card, and then we'll meet with Moonflower? We're just getting our Ulsan office up and running. "You know you haven't even set up an office. But you don't want to go to Busan-Jeon territory. You could kiss Mr Kang right now, but it would be too much for you. Therefore,, Ulsan was a possibility. Perhaps this was divine intervention, precisely like that.

You pulled out your freshly printed business card and handed it to him. When your finger accidentally touches, you blush. Why are you so captivated by this hot man? You begin to scold yourself for finding him so appealing in real life.

"Well, Ms Song, consider it done," he smirked as he read the card." I'll check my work schedule and get back to you with a convenient day for our "meeting," possibly during lunch. When I have food in front of me, I do well. How does that sound?" He looks at you with interest. You nod and smile.

As one of his waiters requested his attention, he stood up and offered you a slight bow.

" I'll see you soon, Ms Song."

Your name came out of his mouth like velvet. You might nod and look at him, stunned,, as he returns to the stairs to the ground floor.

Oh my Gosh... That was incredible—your first client. You had to work quickly and wisely now. Fortunately, your laptop was still turned on, and you promptly sent a message to the realtor, requesting him to check out Ulsan's office space. You scheduled a meeting for the following day. In a week, you might be ready for Mr Lee, and perhaps, you'll be prepared for business. You offer a quick prayer of thanks. You contacted Mr Kang to express your gratitude for the client referrals. Jihyo will be astounded to learn who your first client is. Hopefully, no advertising agency will be aware of this beforehand. Right now, you must play your cards.

The first step is finding an apartment and moving to your new office.

The second step. Forget about the past and be genuinely happy as you move on.

You smile cheerfully to yourself as you pack your technology and handbag and as you prepare to leave. Then, in horror, your eyes widen...

Lalisa was beaming with happiness as she entered the coffee shop, linking arms with none other than Jeon Eunjin—Jungkook's older twin sister. You saw them where you sat on the top floor.

You may shake your head and leave by the side entrance with a heart full of sadness and betrayal...unaware of your best friends'...or ex-best friends'...regretful stare.

A/n another update, whoa!! I hope you love this chapter. You are ready to start afresh.

Thank you for all your guys' support—the vote, comments and adding the book to your readers' list.

@startingwithme yoursSexilyAsh

Question 1: What do you think about Jenna's new venture? Where should she go to get started, Busan, Ulsan, or Songdo?

Question 2: Do you detect a new blossoming friendship with Mr Lee?

Question 3: Did she lose her friendship with Lalisa?

Question 4: Do you believe Lalisa will accept the offer while disregarding her friend's feelings?