EXCESSIVE | ᴋᴏᴏᴋᴠ

06

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Jungkook sat on the edge of his bed, his mind racing. The call from Jimin had been a turning point. The idea of working for Kim Taehyung’s company in Seoul had seemed daunting at first, but Jimin’s reassurance that he would take care of Jungkook’s mother in Busan had finally convinced him.

"Maybe this is the opportunity I’ve been waiting for," Jungkook mused, packing his bag.

The next morning, Jungkook boarded the train to Seoul, his heart filled with a mix of excitement and anxiety. Upon arriving in the bustling city, he made his way to the towering headquarters of Kim Enterprises. The building was a marvel of modern architecture, all glass and steel, dominating the skyline.

Taking a deep breath, he walked through the revolving doors and into the polished marble lobby. The receptionist directed him to the elevator, and he rode up to the 20th floor, where the interviews were being held. The waiting room was filled with anxious faces, all hoping to secure a position in the prestigious company.

As Jungkook took a seat, he couldn't help but feel out of place. Everyone around him seemed so confident, so sure of themselves. He adjusted his tie nervously, trying to steady his breathing. His mind wandered back to his mother's hospital room, and he felt a pang of guilt. He had promised her that he would make something of himself, that he would take care of her. This job was a step in that direction, even if it wasn't his dream.

As  Jungkook’s turn approached, he took a deep breath to steady himself. He had prepared thoroughly, but the thought of meeting Kim Taehyung, a man known for his ruthlessness and high standards, was nerve-wracking.

Just as Jungkook was called in, a flurry of activity erupted in the hallway. Minho rushed into the room, whispering something urgently into Taehyung’s ear. The CEO’s expression darkened.

"Mr. Kim, there’s an urgent matter that requires your attention," Minho said, glancing at the waiting candidates. "Should I reschedule the interviews?"

Taehyung’s gaze flicked  to his secretary. "No, continue with the interviews. I’ll be back shortly. Minho, you handle the rest."

With that, Taehyung strode out of the room, his presence leaving a palpable void. Jungkook exhaled slowly, gathering his thoughts as Minho, Taehyung’s secretary, took over.

"Jeon Jungkook?" Minho called out. "Please, come in."

Inside, Jungkook was greeted by a panel of interviewers, all seated behind a large conference table. At the head of the table was Minho. He smiled warmly at Jungkook, gesturing for him to take a seat.

"Mr. Kim was supposed to conduct the interviews himself, but an urgent matter came up," Minji explained. "I'll be handling them in his stead." Jungkook nodded

"Let's begin," Minho   said, his tone professional. "Tell us a bit about yourself and why you want to work for this company."

He took a deep breath and launched into his well-rehearsed speech. He spoke about his education, his skills, and his previous work experience. He emphasized his dedication, his willingness to learn, and his passion for contributing to a successful team.

The interviewers asked a series of questions, testing his knowledge and problem-solving abilities. Jungkook answered them confidently, drawing on his experiences and his determination to succeed. The panel seemed impressed, nodding and taking notes as he spoke.

After what felt like an eternity, Minho  smiled and said, "Thank you, Mr. Jeon. Please wait outside with the others. We’ll announce the results shortly."

Jungkook returned to the waiting area, his mind a whirl of thoughts. He knew he had done well, but the uncertainty gnawed at him. Finally, after a tense wait, Minho stepped out with a list of names.

"The following candidates have been selected," he announced, reading off the names. "Jeon Jungkook."

Jungkook’s heart soared. He had made it. As he collected his paperwork, he couldn’t help but smile. This job would provide the stability he desperately needed.

The successful candidates were handed employment contracts and asked to sign them. Jungkook carefully read through the terms before signing, feeling a sense of accomplishment wash over him.

Jungkook finished signing the papers with a flourish, his heart racing with a mix of excitement and relief. The job was his. As he stood up, he noticed other successful candidates doing the same, sharing relieved smiles and quiet congratulations. The atmosphere was electric with newfound hope and optimism.

Clutching his employment documents, Jungkook made his way out of the office, feeling lighter than he had in weeks. This was a new beginning, a chance to build a stable future. As he walked through the lobby, his mind was already planning how he would inform his mother of the good news.

Just as he was about to leave the building, a commotion caught his attention. A young woman had accidentally spilled a cup of hot coffee all over a man’s expensive suit. Jungkook’s eyes widened as he recognized the man—Kim Taehyung.

"I’m so sorry!" the woman stammered, panic evident in her voice.

Taehyung’s face twisted in anger, and he raised his hand to slap her. The sight sent a jolt through Jungkook. Before he could think, he rushed forward and grabbed Taehyung’s wrist.

The employees, who had been watching the scene unfold with a mix of curiosity and dread, collectively gasped. Eyes widened, mouths slightly agape, they stood frozen, their attention wholly captured by the unexpected turn of events. Murmurs spread like wildfire among the staff, their shock palpable in the hushed whispers that filled the room.

Taehyung’s reaction was immediate and intense. His eyes, which had been filled with fury moments before, now flashed with surprise and cold, hard anger. He jerked his head to look at Jungkook, his face a mask of disbelief that anyone would dare to touch him, let alone intervene in such a manner. The pristine black glove covering Taehyung’s hand stood out starkly against the dark fabric of his suit, a symbol of his need for control and his disdain for physical contact.

  Jungkook couldn’t help but feel a strange sense of pride. He had stood up for what was right.

Had Jungkook done the right thing, or would he have to pay a heavy price for it?

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