07 | Fingers Crossed

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The EAVC Expo buzzed with the hum of ambition, an annual gathering where South Korea's financial elite—investment analysts, associates, and corporate titans—converged to network and flex their strategic prowess

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The EAVC Expo buzzed with the hum of ambition, an annual gathering where South Korea's financial elite—investment analysts, associates, and corporate titans—converged to network and flex their strategic prowess. The conference hall, a sleek expanse of glass and polished wood, thrummed with the clink of champagne glasses and the low murmur of deals being whispered. You stepped through the entrance, heels clicking against the marble floor, your tailored black blazer and wide-legged trousers exuding confidence. This was your arena, not just the stage at the Blue Fox, but a place where your alter ego—the elusive 'Genie' of Seoul's finance market—could shine.

You made your way to the front desk by the east wall, where a walnut table displayed rows of lanyards, each bearing the name of a company or university. Your eyes scanned the cards, landing on one marked simply 'G.' A subtle smile curved your lips as you pinned it to your blazer. The anonymity was a shield you wielded with precision. The expo wasn't just about networking; it was a game, a chance to outsmart the room and revel in the reactions of those who bet wrong. That day, you were there to scout investment opportunities, but the thrill of the competition was a close second.

A man approached, his suit crisp, his stride purposeful. He plucked a glass of champagne from a passing waiter, his dark eyes locking onto you with an intensity that felt both curious and calculated. "What's your name?" he asked, his voice smooth, a hint of a challenge in his tone.

"Depends on who's asking," you replied, your gaze steady as you took a sip from your own glass, the bubbles sharp against your tongue. You tilted your head, letting your hair fall just so, a practised move that kept her in control.

He smirked, undeterred, and extended a hand. "Byun Jaesung, representing Bioverse Cosmetics." His grip was firm, his fingers lingering a moment longer than necessary. "Your face... It's familiar. I can't place it, but I swear I've seen you somewhere."

Your pulse quickened ever so slightly, but your expression remained cool, a mask honed from years of balancing your dual lives. "I get that a lot," you said with a light laugh, deflecting. "Probably just one of those faces." You didn't know Jaesung, but the Blue Fox drew all sorts—maybe he'd caught your act from a dark corner of the club. The thought sent a flicker of unease through you, but you quickly buried it, focusing on the game at hand. "Bioverse, huh? Big player in skincare. Planning to make waves here?"

Jaesung's eyes narrowed slightly, still studying you, but he let the topic slide. "Something like that. And you? 'G' doesn't give much away."

"Keeps things interesting," you quipped, turning to survey the room. The expo was about to kick off its main event: a simulation pitting two fictional companies against each other, their strategic plans laid bare for attendees to vote on. No cash prizes, just bragging rights—currency enough in this crowd. You relished the chance to flex your instincts, the same ones that had made you a phantom in Seoul's investment scene.

As the announcer took the stage, outlining the profiles of Companies A and B, you felt a presence at your side. You didn't need to turn to know it was Jimin. His cologne, a subtle mix of cedar and spice, gave him away before his voice did. "Didn't expect to see you here, Winter," he said, his tone low, teasing, the nickname a nod to your Blue Fox persona.

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