Beneath The Surface || KNJ

07

Hana enjoyed a peaceful sleep, waking refreshed and ready to tackle her day. After a light breakfast, she took a moment to reflect before sending a text to Namjoon. She wanted to clear up any misunderstandings between them, suggesting they talk on Sunday as it was her only free time amidst her busy schedule with the new JBIMS project.

Namjoon’s response came quickly, agreeing to meet on Sunday. With the plan set, Hana headed to the office, feeling a mix of relief and anticipation. As she settled into her workspace, she couldn’t help but think about the upcoming conversation and how it might change things between them.

Jeonghan eyed Hana with concern, sensing that there was more going on beneath the surface. He wanted to ask about the situation, especially since he had no clue about the specifics. However, with the pressure of the new JBIMS project and the busy schedule, he decided to hold back.

He knew Hana was dealing with a lot, and the last thing she needed was more distraction. Instead, he focused on offering support where he could, offering a reassuring smile. “If you need anything or want to talk, you know where to find me,” he said.

Hana appreciated the gesture, nodding gratefully. She knew she had a lot on her plate but felt a bit lighter knowing that she had colleagues like Jeonghan who were willing to support her.

As the meeting approached, Kim Taehyung arrived at Park Corporation’s headquarters, his competitive spirit as evident as ever. The original project owners had decided that Taehyung’s company would present first, scheduled for Wednesday. Hana’s team was set to follow on Thursday.

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Taehyung, ever the strategist, was keenly aware of the stakes. His presentation would be critical in setting the tone for the project discussions, and he was determined to make a strong impression. He glanced around the sleek, modern lobby of Park Corporation, mentally preparing for the intense competition ahead.

Meanwhile, Hana’s team, still immersed in preparation, knew they had a day to observe and adapt based on Taehyung’s presentation. The extra time allowed them to refine their strategy, but also increased the anticipation and pressure for their own upcoming briefing.

Hana’s frustration with Taehyung was palpable. Just seeing him made her blood boil; his presence felt like an annoying reminder of past defeats. As she tried to refocus, her thoughts drifted to Namjoon. She wondered how he managed to deal with his brother’s antics.

The thought of possibly marrying Namjoon brought a new wave of anxiety. The idea of Taehyung becoming part of her family made her shudder. She questioned how she would handle the dynamic if it meant dealing with Taehyung on a regular basis.

Despite her personal turmoil, Hana steeled herself. She couldn’t afford to let these thoughts derail her focus on the JBIMS project. She took a deep breath, reminding herself that her primary goal was to win this project and prove her capabilities, regardless of the distractions around her.

Taehyung, determined to secure another victory, meticulously planned his strategy. He had a clear objective: to ensure Hana’s team lost yet again, reinforcing his position as the superior competitor.

In a strategy meeting with his assistant, Taehyung reviewed every detail of their presentation. “I want this to be flawless,” he said firmly. “Hana’s team has always been a tough competitor, but this time, I want to make sure they can’t match our approach.”