It was morning, and Jennie prepared her breakfast. Despite Ari being gone for just one night, Jennie already missed her daughter's lively presence and chatter. After her meal, she drove to the company and found Taehyung already inside her office, diligently working on his laptop.
"Good morning, Taehyung. Getting an early start?" Jennie greeted him as she entered the office.
"Morning, Jennie. Just wanted to get a head start on the presentation," Taehyung replied with a warm smile, his eyes crinkling at the corners.
They settled into their tasks, diving into the presentation for a major project. The atmosphere was professional, yet charged with an underlying chemistry that neither of them could deny.
Jennie focused intently on her computer screen, occasionally breaking the tension. "Taehyung, could you check the data analysis for this quarter? I want to ensure everything aligns perfectly before we finalize the presentation."
"Of course. Your presentations always have that extra touch. It's like you make everything look effortless," Taehyung complimented, his attention still on the documents spread out before him.
"Only because you handle the numbers so flawlessly," Jennie replied, smiling as she glanced over at him. "Let's make this perfect."
They worked closely, their hands occasionally brushing against each other as they shared quick, knowing glances. The connection between them was palpable, their hearts beginning to stir with unknown feelings. Once they finished their work, during their lunch break, Taehyung suggested they dine together at a nearby restaurant.
As they settled into their seats, Taehyung brought up a light-hearted topic. "Did you know our employees have been gossiping about us?"
Jennie chuckled, unfazed. "Let them gossip. We're just business partners, after all." Their laughter filled the air, accompanied by their infectious smiles that almost made them fall for each other right there.
Minutes later, their lunch arrived, and they ate peacefully. "So, how do you balance work and being a single mother?" Taehyung asked, genuinely curious about Jennie's life outside the office.
"It's challenging," Jennie admitted, taking a moment to reflect. "But Ari is my priority. I try my best to be there for her, and my friends are a huge help."
"Your friends sound amazing. I'd love to meet them someday," Taehyung remarked thoughtfully.
Jennie nodded, considering the idea. "I'm sure they'd love to meet you too. Maybe we can arrange something once this project is successfully wrapped up."
"Jennie, can I ask you something personal?" Taehyung's tone turned serious, his eyes searching hers.
"Of course," Jennie replied, her curiosity piqued.
"Why did you never mention Ari's father before?" Taehyung's question was gentle, filled with understanding.
Jennie sighed softly, her gaze dropping to her food momentarily. "It's complicated. Ari's father and I... we had a difficult breakup. It wasn't about infidelity, but there were issues we couldn't resolve. It's still a sensitive topic for me."
Taehyung nodded empathetically. "I understand. I didn't mean to pry. I just want to understand you better."
Jennie looked up, meeting his gaze with gratitude. "Thank you for being so understanding, Taehyung. You're not just a business partner, but a good friend too."
"Jen, whenever you have free time, we should hang out. Maybe go shopping," Taehyung suggested with a grin. "And bring Ari along; I really enjoy her company."
"She likes you a lot," Jennie replied with a soft giggle.
"Do you like kids, Taehyung?" Jennie asked suddenly, catching him off guard with her question.
"I do. I actually envision having a family of my own someday," Taehyung admitted, smiling warmly.
"Any woman would be lucky to have a handsome man like you," Jennie said impulsively, her words surprising even herself. She felt a pang in her heart, realizing that someday Taehyung might find someone special and start his own family.
"I'm still looking for that special someone. Maybe you'd like to apply for the role of my girlfriend," Taehyung joked, unaware of the effect his words had on Jennie. Her cheeks flushed, her heart racing at his playful remark.
"I'm still looking for that special someone. Maybe you'd like to apply for the role of my girlfriend," Taehyung joked, unaware of the effect his words had on Jennie. Her cheeks flushed, her heart racing at his playful remark.
Jennie chuckled softly, trying to mask her surprise. "Well, we'll see about that," she teased back, her smile a mix of uncertainty and intrigue.
As they finished their meal, Taehyung insisted on paying the bill, despite Jennie's protests. They walked back to the office together, the conversation light and easy, filled with shared laughter and genuine interest in each other's lives.
Back at their desks, Jennie couldn't shake the flutter in her chest. She found herself stealing glances at Taehyung, wondering about the future and what their growing connection might lead to.
Later that evening, after a productive day at work, Jennie called Ari. They chatted about Ari's day at her dad's place, her school projects, and the upcoming weekend plans. Ari mentioned Taehyung, saying how nice he seemed and how they had talked about possibly hanging out together.
As she hung up the phone, Jennie leaned back in her chair, her thoughts drifting to Taehyung and the unexpected turn her life had taken. She felt a mixture of excitement and apprehension, unsure of where this new path might lead but willing to find out.
YOU ARE READING
Balancing Hearts (Taennie)
Fanfiction[Ongoing] Jennie Kim is a dedicated professional and a loving single mother to her daughter, Ari. Balancing her demanding career with parenthood is already a delicate act. When Taehyung, a charming colleague, enters her life, Jennie finds herself ju...
