𝟮 𝗛𝗢𝗧 | 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗵𝘆𝘂𝗰𝗸 || 𝗔𝗠𝗕𝗪

𝗛𝗲 𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄𝘀

Rachel stood at the front of the room, beaming with pride as she introduced the new talents she had scouted. "Everyone, I'd like you to meet Jeno, Misty, Jisung, Trixie, Jaemin, and Renjun. They are incredibly talented, and I believe they'll bring a fresh energy to our team."

Mark's eyes widened in shock as he saw Jeno among the newcomers. "What is he doing here?" he demanded, his voice edged with anger.

Jeno smirked, his eyes locking onto Mark's with a challenging gaze. "You're not the only one with skills, Mark."

The tension in the room was palpable. Haechan, standing next to Hope, noticed Renjun and felt his own frustration rising. "No, why is Renjun here?"

Renjun crossed his arms, an arrogant smile playing on his lips. "Unlike you, I can work with people," he retorted, his tone dripping with condescension.

Hope glanced nervously between the two groups, sensing the brewing conflict. She stepped forward, trying to diffuse the situation. "Rachel, I'm sure you've picked some amazing talents. Let's give them a chance to prove themselves."

Rachel nodded, appreciating Hope's attempt to smooth things over. "I understand there might be some history here, but let's focus on the future and how we can all work together to create something incredible."

Jisung, Misty, Trixie, and Jaemin exchanged glances, clearly feeling the tension but unsure how to intervene. The room fell silent, the air thick with unspoken words and unresolved issues.

Mark clenched his fists, struggling to keep his temper in check. "Fine," he muttered, finally breaking the silence. "But if anyone causes trouble, they're out."

Jeno raised an eyebrow, unfazed. "We'll see about that."

Renjun chuckled, enjoying the drama. "This is going to be interesting."

As the meeting concluded, Hope gestured for Mark and Haechan to follow her into a quieter corner of the room. The tension between them was still palpable, and she needed to address it before it caused more problems.

"Follow me, you two," she said firmly.

"Yes, ma'am," Mark and Haechan responded in unison, exchanging a quick glance of understanding.

Hope turned to face them, her expression serious. "I'm going to need you both to behave. Mark, I understand that Jeno did something unforgettable, but you're not in jail, and he seems to be trying to change for the better. So please, stop killing him with your eyes."

Mark grumbled under his breath but nodded reluctantly. "Yes, ma'am."

Haechan began to step away, thinking Hope was finished. "Where are you going? I'm not done," she said sharply.

Haechan stopped and turned back to her, raising an eyebrow. "Oh, you got something to say to me?"

"Yes," Hope replied, crossing her arms. "I heard that you and Renjun used to be in a boy group together. I know you two are not kind to each other, so please play nice. And if any of you try anything, no more cuddles."

Haechan's eyes widened at the threat. "No more cuddles?" he repeated, clearly taken aback.

Hope nodded, her stern expression unwavering. "That's right. I mean it. We're all here to work together, and we can't let personal grudges get in the way. Understood?"

Mark sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Understood."

Haechan nodded as well, though his eyes still held a hint of defiance. "Understood."

Hope softened slightly, placing a hand on each of their shoulders. "I love you both, and I know this is difficult, but we have to make it work. We're a team, remember?"

Mark and Haechan both nodded, the tension easing slightly under Hope's calming influence.

"Good," she said, smiling at them both. "Now let's go show everyone what we're made of."

With that, the three of them returned to the group, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.