Our Story

Chapter 29: The Announcement

The grand hall of Kings Department Company was filled to capacity. Reporters, employees, and shareholders gathered, their murmurs echoing off the marble floors and high ceilings. The press conference had been called on short notice, sparking a wave of speculation about the urgency and significance of the meeting.

In the front of the room, a panel of the company's highest-ranking executives stood, embodying both authority and mystery. Mr. Kim, the formidable president, stood tall with his signature stoic expression. Beside him was Kim Namjoon, the vice president, whose calm demeanor and sharp intellect made him a formidable figure. Next to Namjoon was Kim Seokjin, the COO, recently glowing with the news of his impending fatherhood, though his usual warmth was masked by a professional facade. Taehyung, the CEO, stood with a quiet confidence, his face composed yet tinged with a hint of determination. Finally, Jungkook, the director of legal affairs, stood beside Taehyung, his presence a silent pillar of support.

As the room settled, Mr. Kim stepped forward, his voice commanding attention. "Thank you all for coming on such short notice," he began, his tone even and unyielding. "We understand there has been much speculation about the purpose of this conference. Today, we aim to provide clarity."

The crowd was silent, hanging onto his every word. Taehyung took a deep breath and stepped forward, ready to address the audience. The Kims had always exuded an air of invincibility, but today was different.

"Good afternoon," Taehyung began, his voice steady but filled with an undercurrent of resolve. "I know many of you are wondering about the urgency of this meeting. My family and I have discussed this at length, and while they have their reservations, I believe it's important to address the situation directly."

A ripple of whispers spread through the room. Taehyung's tone was serious, more personal than his usual businesslike demeanor.

"As some of you may know, I have been dealing with some health issues," Taehyung continued, pausing to gather his thoughts. "Recently, I have been experiencing episodes that have affected my ability to function at my best. These episodes could have led to serious consequences, and I have come to the difficult decision that I cannot continue in my role as CEO at this time."

The room erupted in a flurry of camera flashes and murmurs. The Kims, known for their composed and unyielding presence, were not accustomed to showing vulnerability. But here was Taehyung, standing tall, addressing his own limitations with unwavering honesty.

"I have decided to step down from my position as CEO," Taehyung announced, looking directly into the sea of cameras and faces before him. "Effective immediately, my duties will be handed over to my best friend and secretary, Min Jimin."

Jimin, standing off to the side, froze as though he had been struck by lightning. His eyes widened, and he seemed momentarily paralyzed. The camera lights intensified, capturing his stunned expression.

Taehyung turned towards Jimin, his eyes filled with both gratitude and assurance. "Jimin knows this business inside and out. He has been by my side through countless challenges and victories. There is no one more capable of leading this company in my absence."

Jimin blinked rapidly, tears welling up in his eyes. He had known Taehyung for years, but this level of trust and responsibility was overwhelming. He struggled to find his voice. "Taehyung, I... I didn't know..."

"It's okay, Jimin," Taehyung said softly, offering a comforting smile. "You've got this. I believe in you."

The room was filled with the clicking of cameras and hushed whispers of shock. Taehyung continued, addressing the crowd once more. "I have been fighting a brain tumor," he disclosed, his voice unwavering. "This could potentially be my demise. I want to take this time to focus on my health and my family. In six months, we will reassess the situation."

The revelation sent a wave of shock through the audience. Reporters leaned forward, eager to catch every word, their cameras capturing the gravity of the moment.

Beside Taehyung, Jungkook stepped forward, his hand gently resting on Taehyung's back in a show of support. "I will also be stepping down temporarily to be with my husband during this time," Jungkook announced, his voice steady. "My responsibilities as director of legal affairs will be taken over by Min Yoongi, who leads our legal team with exceptional skill and dedication."

Yoongi, standing next to Jimin his husband is equally surprised, looked as if he had just been hit by a truck. His usually composed expression gave way to shock as he processed the news. "Jungkook, I... I didn't know... Taehyung was..."

Jungkook nodded, his eyes meeting Yoongi's with a look of trust and expectation. "I know this is a lot to take in, Yoongi, but I have full confidence in your abilities. You've always had the company's best interests at heart."

The room remained in a state of stunned silence, absorbing the magnitude of the announcements. The Kims, pillars of strength and resilience, were revealing a side seldom seen by the outside world. Yet, in this moment of vulnerability, there was also a profound sense of unity and resolve.

Taehyung turned back to the crowd, his gaze sweeping over the faces before him. "We appreciate your understanding and support during this challenging time," he said, his voice carrying a quiet strength. "Our family has always faced adversity head-on, and we will continue to do so. Thank you."

With that, the press conference drew to a close. The room buzzed with the murmurs of reporters and the flash of cameras, capturing the historic moment. As the Kims made their way off the stage, Jimin and Yoongi stood in a daze, still processing the weight of his new role.

Jungkook and Taehyung remained close, their hands intertwined as they faced the uncertain future together. Despite the chaos and the challenges ahead, they found strength in each other's presence. In the end, it was their unwavering bond that would see them through, no matter what the future held.