𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄 𝐔 ─ lee jeno

𝟒𝟒 | 𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐨

"Their name is derived from the word 'irenic' which means to promote peace. Using this, we can go off a fresh concept to-"

"I took several literature courses in my youth, I know what the term means. Nevertheless, I don't really have much criticism on your concept, but I want to ask you why this specific lineup of trainees?" Jeno asked, his classic stoic expression reborn on his face. He was currently in a concept meaning to decide what approach they want to take with NEO Ent.'s first boy group.

"W-well, their visuals are sure to captivate the public. Plus, I think they fit the concept the best," One of the creative team's interns pitched.

"Yes, but I'm looking at their evaluation reports, and none of them have the greatest record on performance. One of them even had the lowest passable grading last month. Do you think that people only care about looks? We'll be torn to shreds if you think like this," Jeno argued.

"T-that's not what I meant, CEO Lee. I think with some motivation and work, these boys will be able to fit the concept and will be in shape for the set debut in nine months," The worker stuttered, scared of the face Jeno was making.

"I don't need theories. I need set data. And these trainees clearly are nowhere ready to debut yet. They still have a long way to go," Jeno finalised, getting up from his chair, "I'll end the meeting here. I want you to change the lineup. And if you still decide to go ahead with this lineup, I want a perfect demo track in my office in two weeks."

The creative, marketing, and management directors all stood up from their chairs and exited after Jeno had disappeared from the meeting room. "What's next on my schedule?" Jeno inquired, turning his head slightly towards the right, waiting for a response from Secretary Xiao.

"You have a lunch break before the marketing meeting for META's comeback and the concept meeting for Haechan's comeback, as well as checking the final reports of this month's trainee evaluation," Secretary Xiao sturdily stated.

Jeno nodded, "Is Taeil here? I need to meet someone."

"Taeil's in the private parking lot, I'll send you over," He replied.

After arriving at the underground parking lot below the building, a small convenient limousine drove up to the curb. Jeno turned around to face his secretary, "Stay here and collect the other debut reports. The one today wasn't my favourite, and I'd like a few more ideas." Secretary Xiao nodded before turning on his heel back up into the lavish building. Jeno turned and entered the vehicle a few seconds after. "Good afternoon, Sir Jeno. Where would you like me to take you?"

"If you could take me to Lovetalk Café, that'd be great."

-♡︎-

"You have been in an absolute foul mood for the past couple days. What's wrong?"

Despite what changes in years, one place hadn't. And that one place was Lovetalk Café. The coffee shop that had been with Jeno throughout his college days leading to his work years never seemed to die down. In fact, the place had grown in popularity, creating more locations throughout the districts of Seoul. Nevertheless, the original, much more retro, café always suited Jeno's taste a bit more.