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As you and your uncle awaited the arrival of the removal company, you couldn't shake off the weariness that clung to you from the lingering flu symptoms. Your uncle and aunt were bustling around, excited to help with the move; their enthusiasm was contagious despite your fatigue. They were so grateful to own their home, no longer renting mediocre apartments or roof-top homes and living in different neighbourhoods. They have their Grandma's Wanton Shop and a house above the shop.

You sighed, watching the clock anxiously. "They should be here any minute now."

When the removal men finally arrived, they worked efficiently to load some small furniture pieces you'd decided to take into the truck. You struck up a candid conversation with them, joking about driving ahead of them to your new home in Ulsan, a very exclusive neighbourhood. Your mom can now afford the best environment for the two of you. At least her best friend from the USA will help her with the new pastry shop she wants to open in the mall.

Unexpectedly, Dae-Seong arrived to see you off, and his concern for your health was evident in his eyes.
His eyes roamed over your beautiful, flustered face, and your long mahogany hair was in a high ponytail. You have a cute black graphic t-shirt with rock group faces, denim shorts, and high-top Converse. Dae-sang smirked at your typical high school look. But in your case, you look like a middle-school learner.

Dae-Seong smiled brightly, "Hey, Yeonra! I thought I'd swing by and see how the moving's going." He looked around with interest at the buzzing around.

Your joyful uncle came out with your boxes—your dad's albums and music books. It is so valuable that you placed it in your mother's small, bloodred Kia car. He and Dae-sang joyfully greet each other with bows. Dae-sang smiled with a light shining in his eyes. He was dressed in a blue denim shirt with a brown brand T-shirt underneath and black jeans. He looked very relaxed and comfortable.

He turned and gave you a huge bear hug. You were so small for your 1.6m.

You looked very surprised but grateful, "Dae! I'm so glad you're here. It's been hectic, but we're almost done—only the last few boxes. Most of the furniture will stay with my uncle. But I insist on my dad's piano and a few sentimental pieces."

Dae-Seong looked at you with furrowed brows; he noticed your tired expression, "You look exhausted. Are you feeling okay?"

You nodded, rubbing your temples, "Honestly, not great. I still have some flu symptoms lingering, and I'm a little exhausted."

Dae-Seong said concernedly, " I'm sorry to hear that. Must I get you extra medicine for the road? Hey, why don't I drive you to Ulsan? It would be best if you weren't driving in this condition. It's just an hour's drive. I can be back before my night shift."

You looked relieved, "Really? That would be amazing. Thank you, Dae."

He is such a great friend.

Dae-Seong is smiling, "Of course. Let's get you settled in your new home. I can't wait to see your new living spaces."

As you embark on a road trip through Ulsan, you're greeted by a vibrant drapery of sights that showcase the city's unique blend of natural beauty, urban development, and cultural richness.

Dae-sang was driving, and the atmosphere in the car was relaxed. He sat there with a bright smile on his face. You wondered what he was thinking. You just shook your head as your eyes roamed over coastal roads. You caught glimpses of rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, massive industrial complexes, and factories, particularly along the waterfront.

Dae-sang looked at you, yawning, and smirked," Why don't you take a nap for a few minutes? I'll wake you up when we enter the metropolitan area."

You smile gratefully and say, "Okay. You can stop here, and then I'll get in the back. My body feels achy from the flu."

Dae-Seong smiled when you settled a few moments later in the back seat, looking at you through the rearview mirror.,"No worries, Yeonra. Get some rest."

In the 20 minutes, while you were sleeping, you dreamed of the man who stole your heart. Dae-sang's eyes darkened when he heard you murmuring in your sleep. Only one name escaped your lips softly: "Suga."

Dae-Seong pursed his lips, and a thoughtful expression etched his face. "She's still thinking about him..."

Yeonra slept for most of the trip, exhausted from the day's events. The journey is at least 64 minutes long; you could take a 20-minute nap.

You opened your eyes and said, " Sorry, Dae. I'm just so tired." The little nap gave you time to be energized.

Dae-sang smiled gently as you sat up, rubbed your face, and redone your ponytail, "We just entered Ulsan Metro City. We'll be in your neighbourhood in about 5 minutes."

Yeonra smiled brightly after waking up, feeling refreshed. "Wow, I feel so much better. Thanks for driving, Dae."

Dae-Seong smiled and said, "No problem. Look at this place, Yeonra. It's beautiful. You won't miss Busan and us."

You gave him a deadpan look, " I'm already missing you guys, especially the fatherly Po-seok. How's our crew doing in their new positions?" You ask with interest.

"They're good. They enjoy every minute of it. The place has undergone a whole revamp—management to ground level. Six student janitors are employed. Su-lin has returned to university full-time, and it's so strange to sit with management in one room as an equal. Po-seok and the rest look so happy. We are really grateful for Mr. Min Yoongi, our dearest grumpy Suga.' He looked at your face when he saw a pained expression flash through your eyes.

He is certain you fell for 'Suga', hook, line, and sinker. He will make sure to stay in your life and be there for you. Help you forget.

You just smiled, but you didn't comment. It is still a sensitive issue having to let go of 'Gwan Suga; your surprised eyes peered through the window at peek office towers, luxury condominiums, and shopping malls stand as symbols of the city's economic prosperity and cosmopolitan lifestyle. Ulsan Metropolitan City is among the largest metropolitan areas in South Korea and offers a vibrant culture with many opportunities for education and adventure, from parks to museums and beyond.

You know you and your mom will enjoy living here, unless you have to leave if you decide to move to Seoul, taking Mr. Min's offer. But you want to see if you can get jobs on your own.

---

Arriving in the gated community, you and Dae-seong eyes widen when you stop in front of your new 'mansion'. It looks more significant than the photos. You told Dae-sang to drive into the driveway. You were pleasantly surprised to see the truck already parked in front, with the men busy loading boxes.

Dae-Seong smiled when he looked up, " Look at this place, Yeonra. It's beautiful." His eyes were shining at the beautiful upmarket home—your own home.

You smile in amazement, "I know. And check out that maid with the greyish bun. She's already helping with the packing."

Dae-Seong, grinning with renewed excitement, said, "Let's explore your new home, " He opened the door for you. Your demeanour was uplifted as you took his hand to lead you in.
---

In the new house:

The house was airy. You and Dae-sang immediately liked the older maid. She was friendly, efficient, and respectful.

Your new furniture had already arrived two days ago. The rooms were huge. The whole floor was covered in dark wood laminates from the front door. Your mom had it redone; the walls were grey and beige, and Ms. Oh told you that the curtain warehouse just finished with the window dressing and blinds for the whole house. They have been busy preparing everything for the new owners since the previous morning.

The back windows leading to the patio and pool have substantial French windows. Dae-sang clapped his hands at the crystal-blue pool. You never had one in Busan. But you had the beach. You can't wait to have BBQ with your old friends and some family residing in Ulsan 10-15 minutes from your new neighbourhoods.

You were busy unwrapping boxes while Ms. Oh was packing away the cutlery and crockery in the sparkling white state-of-the-art kitchen with a velvet blue accent.

Da-seong was helping the men arrange the furniture, the dining room, and the lounge area. Both had massive velvet grey rags. The furniture was super modern. You feel like a genuine millionaire. You and Ms. Oh will do some of the decorations, maybe tomorrow, as long as the house looks liveable. You'll do your room. Fortunately, the furniture company has assembled the pieces for all the bedrooms.

Ms. Oh lives in town but will sleep in the guestroom to keep you company and help set up your house. You played some of your dad's old records, which comforted you.

You grinned as you peeled back plastic coverings from the new grey dining chairs, "Hey, Dae-sang. This is like Christmas morning." You both chuckle.

Dae-Seong was laughing, "I know what you mean." He put up some of your paintings in the hallway and lounge areas. You are so grateful to have him with you.

After some time, Dae-sang entered the lounge, where you were busy placing the decorative vases on the dining room table, " And hey, I've ordered some takeaways to keep us fueled while we decorate. I told Ms. Oh not to bother cooking. There is too much work to do."

You looked up, grateful, "You're the best, Dae. I forgot about food. Let's make this place feel like home."

......

Two hours later, after the removals, you can just marvel at the beauty of your new living space. Your and your mom's lives have just begun. She will have a pleasant and exciting life right now.

This house even has an entertainment room where you can watch your movies in your cinema and a bar area that leads to another side of the sparkling swimming pool. You can't wait to invite your janitor crew for a glorious housewarming.

Dae-sang left a few hours later with a hired Uber. He declined when you offered to settle the bill. You smiled and gave him a tight hug.

"I'm going to miss your face at home," you breathed in his scent against his chest.

He chuckled and smiled, " I'll try to visit you every alternate weekend when I'm off. Diarise our date for next Friday. I make a turn this way. Our company will be Mins Entertainment's distributor. "

You lift your head and smile, " You are going to the top. I'm glad for you, Dae-sang. I hope to get at least a shot at Pledis or Cube Agencies. "You sigh deeply, understanding the rat race to the top. That is why you opt for smaller agencies. With your awesome recommendation letter from the CEO, you are confident you will ace these interviews.

Dae-sang furrowed his brows, "Why are you still looking for a job, Yeonra? Didn't Min Entertainments offer you a lucrative job in Seoul, your dream destination.?"

You sigh deeply, " It is lucrative, but Pledis and Cube have openings in production and management. I don't want to be with 'Suga-erm, Mr. Min. I feel a bit uncomfortable." You look downward, but Dae-seang can sense the deflation and hurt in your tone. You don't want actually to be around the CEO. It pains you too much.

"I know the shock was great even for us, but Yeonra—his company is one of the top agencies. You'll be able to advance quickly in your career. You can write and produce music. I believe in you, Yeon. Please reconsider. " He looked at you with deep affection. He wants you to excel in your talents and gifts.

Just then, the Uber arrived, and you just nodded and smiled. I was giving him a last hug.

The evening, you were so pleased to enjoy the tranquillity of your luxurious bedroom in dark wood and blue hues. You have a deep white carpet and a plush bed. Your cupboards had mirror doors. You had your bathroom, which gave you ample privacy.

.....

Two days later, you were dressed in a dark tangerine dress suit jacket, black pencil skirt, and black high-heeled sandals.

Your mom and her best friend returned from the US, and you were so happy to see your mom after the devastating reveal. You told yourself to put the past behind you and start living for yourself.

You will make sure to strive for a successful life and career. Your mom looked rested and gave you a box with more sheet music that belonged to your dad. His former band sent some of his Grammys and distinctive music awards he won from his solo albums for you to have. You couldn't stop crying for his record-label generosity. Your mom gave you a very thought-provoking letter from his band inviting you to their studio if you visit the USA.

You would love to see the band again. To think you were a cute roadie following them to some of their world tour destinations during your high school summer vacations.

Your mom wanted you to follow your dreams, and she knows you want to be in the entertainment hub of Seoul.

Your mom bought you a brand new, small white Hyundai Grand i10. It was love at first sight when you saw the little cheeky car. In the US, you drove around with an old Lexus your dad gave you in high school. Nobody knew you were the daughter of a rock legend because you had your mom's maiden name at school.

Your mom ensured you were first settled in a five-star hotel because your two interviews would end. So you'll have at least a little vacation in Seoul. You'll be enjoying some shopping.

You drove very early on Wednesday morning to ensure you booked into the hotel and had time to refresh.

Your first interview is at Cube Entertainment and Pledis in Cheongdam-dong, in the wealthy Gangnam district.

You got two texts from Mr. Mins' PA, Selena, and you just shook your head. She is adamant about coercing you into their distinctive company. Min-Corp. He took the offer under his wing with four subagencies. Maybe you'll take the offer if you like one of the agencies on your list. You want a head start on your career. You wouldn't deny it, but you miss your time with the Busan janitorial crew. But some of you miss Suga, and knowing he will never emerge, your heart is in pain.

How can you look at Mr Min without thinking about your intimate night with him as Suga? Your thoughts were consumed by the handsome CEO, knowing he is so far out of his league and that he, according to the tabloid, is involved with a model and a heiress. Engagement plans are on the way, so why would you subject yourself to agony? Seeing him and knowing that he is not destined for you.

You hoped you could forget him, even if their offer is the most lucrative and the perks are beyond your imagination, but you'll be choosing heartache by choosing Min Entertainment.

After arriving in Seoul, you got your luxurious executive room and had time to refresh. You feel a little jittery and suddenly nauseous at the pit of your stomach due to apprehension.

But armed with your resumes and a copy of your qualifications, you were set. Your first stop was Cube.

There were almost fifty candidates for the two posts. Manager for a raising group (G): I -dle . You doubt you have heard of that group. You were too busy cleaning after executives.

You inhaled deeply when it was your turn. There were only seven females, which makes you wonder.

The interview was in their boardroom with four interviewers. Three older men and a stoic woman. Her eyes roamed over your striking features, and you could see the calculating eyes weighing you out. The men were quite pleasant, and you could see they liked what they were seeing. You immediately felt uncomfortable, but you kept your demeanour calm as they fired you with tough questions after you had your pleasantries. They were surprised when they heard your foreign accent. You hope it will not count against you.

The older gentleman with glasses smiles as he asks, " What inspired you to pursue a career in K-pop management, particularly with a small agency?" His eyes smile at your nervous ones.

You inhaled deeply and with poise to answer their questions: " I've always been fascinated by the magic of K-pop and how it brings people together through music and performance. Working with a small agency gives me a hands-on role in nurturing talents from the ground up, which is incredibly rewarding."

They've asked six more questions about management, collaborations, leadership styles, crisis management, etc. You answered it to the best of your abilities.

The panel shares appreciative glances. They told you about the remuneration. It was a few thousand won less than Min Entertainment offered. You will work from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., but you'll have to work overtime if you are the manager of one of their upcoming trainee groups. You'll have two days off a month, and you get alternate weekends off only if there are no programs of the agency, like tour schedules, publicity and media appearances of the debut groups, etc.

You left there after an hour of intense interviews. Your following interview at Pledis Entertainment will be in two days. So you decided to unwind at a cafe and get your mind in alignment.

You saw a cute cafe near Cube. Luckily, there is an open parking spot in front of the trendy coffee shop called Gute Leute in Gangnam-Gu. You smile with excitement as you enter the establishment.

The waiters were friendly when leading you to a cute, cosy corner. You put your bag on the table and took out your cell phone to tell your mom about your stressful interview. Your mom and her best friend were baking up a storm for the house pantry.

You were lounging at the trendy Gute Leute coffee shop, enjoying your caramel latte and contemplating life, when your phone buzzed, disrupting your peaceful solitude. Glancing at the caller ID, you saw it was Selena, Mr. Min's executive PA. With a sigh and a roll of her eyes, you answered, already bracing yourself for whatever task Selena had in store.

"Hello, Selena. What delightful chaos do you have for me today?" You answered, trying to inject a tad of cheer into your voice.

"Hey, Yeonra! How's my favourite potential recruit?" Selena chirped, her voice practically bouncing through the phone.

"Oh, you know, just dodging life's curveballs and trying not to spill my coffee," you replied, feigning nonchalance.

Selena chuckled. "Good to hear! So, how did your latest interview go? Are you one step closer to becoming the next K-pop sensation?"

You leaned back in your chair, adopting a quiet demeanour. "Well, I just finished a rigorous interview at Cube Entertainment. Now, I'm just playing the waiting game."

Selena laughed with a mischievous twinkle in her eye. "Guess what? I'm in Seoul, too! What a divine coincidence! We should totally meet up right now. I have a feeling we're about to become the best of friends. Where are you exactly? "

You snort because you know their agency is not far from the Gangnam district. You told her the name of the coffee shop you were at.

You raised an eyebrow sceptically. "Oh really? And what's the occasion for this sudden friendship?"

"Well, besides wanting to know where you are so we can meet up," Selena teased, "I also wanted to know how the interview at Cube Entertainment went."

You couldn't help but sassily retort, "Oh, you know, they're probably just holding out on giving me an answer and the fact that someone called me just now because her little boss bribed her with a luxury condo."

Selena chuckled. "Hey now, it was an offer I couldn't refuse!"

It was not even ten minutes.

Selena breezed into the café, flirting shamelessly with the cute waiter who brought her the menu. She greeted you jovially, like old friends. She looked stunning in a white suit with her hair loose on her shoulders. She is gorgeous,  and she fits into the celebrity world.

Once settled, she leaned in conspiratorially and said, "Listen, if you come and work for us, our boss will be less rigid and stoic. You'll be treated like royalty; maybe even go to America for the American awards!"

You felt a little conflicted, but Selena was nothing if not persuasive. She painted a picture of the best benefits in their agency, promising career advancements, perks, and a salary that would make your head spin. Almost five times the salary Cube offered. She even enticed you with the prospect of luxury apartments in the wealthiest neighbourhoods near the agency.

As their conversation deepened, you felt a newfound sense of camaraderie and understanding with Selena. You were tempted to accept the offer on the spot, but you knew better than to jump into anything without a written contract.

"Alright, Selena, you and your little boss won," you said finally, and your interest piqued. "But I'll need that contract before I make any decisions."

Selena's excitement was palpable. "Of course! I'll get that to you right away!" She looked beside herself in excitement. You just shook your head at her enthusiasm. She will email you the contract so you can look over it.

Selena smirked as she ate her last piece of strawberry cake. " How long are you going to be in Seoul?"

You shrugged. " Only for a few days. My interview with Pledis is on Saturday. I might leave on Monday."

Selena grinned. "Well, call Pledis and Cube and decline their offers. You are part of Min Entertainment now. Let's go for lunch on Friday; then you can give me the contract, and I will help you get a cute apartment. "

" You are a real bulldozer, Selena." You shake your head in disbelief, chuckling. Selena is Min Yoong's genuine, trustworthy aid. She will do anything to make her boss happy. Their relationship is genuinely admirable.

Before they said their goodbyes, you couldn't resist asking about Mr Min. "How's your boss doing? "

Selena's voice softened, concern evident. "He was under the weather. Yeah, poor guy. He's got a severe flu and is holed up at home recovering. But don't worry; he's a tough cookie. He'll bounce back in no time."

You looked concerned; maybe it was that kiss you shared. You felt a shiver run down your spine just thinking about being with me. But you immediately shun those threatful feelings. You and Mr. Min have nothing in common. He is way out of your league. It will be better for you to think of him as your new boss and not as Gwan Suga, with whom you irrevocably fell in love.

" Good to hear that, " you murmur.

Selena looked at you teasingly, " And since you are an executive, you can access his residency. You could've brought him back to health just with your mere presence." She wagged her brows.

You looked at her with exasperation, " Forget it, Selena. There is absolutely nothing between Min Yoongi and me. Just don't play matchmaker with us."

Selena lifted her hands in mock defence, " Okay, I was just saying. The physical attraction between the two of you was palpable. You could rescue him from an arranged marriage, Yeonra. Suzy is a pain in my elegant butt. "

You laugh softly at Selena's frustration with Mr. Mins' future fiance, " I don't want to get involved. I had enough romantic love in my life. I don't think I have another set of fingers to burn again. So, let's leave Mr Min to sort out his love life. Okay?

Selena just scowled," Yeah, well. I want him to be truly happy with the girl he loves."

You chuckle humorously," Well, unfortunately, it's not me. Let's leave it at that."

And with that, their conversation ended, leaving you with much to ponder and a newfound excitement for the future.

.....

A/N:  Wow, here is an update after aeons of years. I hope, as my faithful readers, you won't kill or write me off. Thank you for still reading and voting on this book. Yoongi, as the CEO, is back, 😂 And don't worry, this book will never be discontinued. Kindly follow my account to get quicker updates or place this book in your readers list. 🩷

Yeonra is contemplating taking the lucrative offer.

Shout out to all commenters,

Sugatidexxx  BBbare    @Princess_Taehee   jpn0214  @AliciaCummings2   @Ishani50 

 VantoshLiam   DEVIL-QUEEN2001      startingwithme

1 Do you think Dae-seong will make her forget Suga?

2. Will Yeonra be strong enough to work in the proximity with Yoongi

3. Do you think she can get a job at Cube?

4.  Will Yeonra give in and take the job offer?

5. Do you think Selena could be a great friend to Yeonra?

6. Will Yeonra's presence make a difference in Min Yoongi's life?