A New Rival

37 5 0
                                    

The next day dawned bright and bustling, and Jungwon was already feeling more at ease in his role. He'd successfully navigated his first day, and despite the pressure, he felt a sense of purpose. However, he had no idea that today would introduce him to someone who would test his newfound confidence.

As he entered the office, Heeseung was already there, poring over documents with an intensity that sent a ripple of tension through the room. "You're late," Heeseung remarked without looking up.

"I'm on time," Jungwon replied, quickly moving to his desk. "What do you need me to do today?"

"Check the reports for the board meeting and make sure everything is in order. I expect you to anticipate my needs," Heeseung said, his tone clipped.

Before Jungwon could respond, the door swung open, and a striking woman stepped in. She was tall and poised, her tailored suit accentuating her sharp features. Her dark hair was neatly pulled back, and her confident stride commanded attention.

"Good morning, Heeseung," she said, her voice smooth yet cool. Jungwon felt a sudden shift in the atmosphere as she turned her gaze toward him. "And who might this be?"

"This is Jungwon, my new assistant," Heeseung replied, barely looking up from his papers.

"Ah, the one who survived yesterday," she said, her tone laced with skepticism. "I'm Wonyoung, the general manager. I hope you can keep up with the pace around here."

Nice to meet you," Jungwon managed, trying to read her expression. There was something in her eyes—a glimmer of jealousy?

Wonyoung's smile was tight as she continued, "Just so you know, working closely with Heeseung comes with its challenges. He has high standards, and not everyone can meet them." Her gaze flicked back to Heeseung, who finally looked up, clearly unfazed by her comment.

"He's doing fine so far, Wonyoung. I trust he can handle the pressure," Heeseung said, an edge of protectiveness in his voice that surprised Jungwon.

"Is that so?" Wonyoung replied, arching an eyebrow. "Just remember, Jungwon, Heeseung has a reputation to uphold. Don't get too comfortable just because he's giving you a little attention."

Jungwon felt the heat rise to his cheeks at her veiled insult. "I'm not here for attention; I'm here to work," he replied, meeting her gaze with a steely determination.

Wonyoung's smile faltered for a moment, replaced by a flicker of surprise. "Bold. I like that," she said, though her tone suggested she wasn't entirely sincere. "But remember, I've been in this game longer than you have. Don't underestimate me—or Heeseung."

With that, she turned to Heeseung, her demeanor shifting instantly to one of practiced charm. "I'll see you later for the strategy meeting?" she asked, her voice sweet and professional.

"Of course," Heeseung replied, a slight smile breaking through his usual stoic expression.

As Wonyoung left the office, Jungwon felt the tension lift slightly but could still sense the competition lingering in the air. "Is she always like that?" he asked, trying to keep his tone neutral.

Heeseung shrugged, his expression unreadable. "Wonyoung is ambitious. She's been with the company for years and doesn't take kindly to newcomers. Just don't let her get under your skin. You've got your own strengths."

"Right," Jungwon said, determined not to let Wonyoung's words affect him. "I'll focus on my work."

The day continued with a flurry of meetings and reports. Jungwon immersed himself in his tasks, trying to prove he could hold his own. Heeseung occasionally glanced over at him, and for the first time, Jungwon noticed a flicker of approval in his eyes.

However, as the afternoon wore on, Wonyoung's presence seemed to linger. She would pop into the office, often casting sideways glances at Jungwon, assessing him like a competitor on a playing field. Jungwon couldn't shake the feeling that her jealousy over his proximity to Heeseung was palpable.

During a brief break, Heeseung turned to Jungwon. "I need you to prepare the data for our presentation next week. Wonyoung will be there, and she'll try to undermine you if she gets the chance."

"Great," Jungwon replied, feeling a mix of anxiety and determination. "I'll make sure it's perfect."

"Good. Just remember, she's not the only one who's been working hard. Don't give her any reason to doubt you," Heeseung said, his voice steady, but there was an undertone of encouragement.

As the day wrapped up, Jungwon couldn't shake the feeling that he was now in a precarious position—caught between Heeseung's expectations and Wonyoung's rivalry. But as he packed up for the day, he felt a newfound resolve.

He wouldn't just survive; he would thrive. Wonyoung may be a formidable opponent, but he was determined to prove that he belonged here, right alongside Heeseung. With each challenge that came his way, he felt himself growing stronger, ready to face whatever obstacles lay ahead.

Falling Crazy in Love -  Heewon, Heeseung and Jungwon [Completed]Where stories live. Discover now