Cold Seduction | Daerin

1

Danielle POV

Today's the day.

I adjust the best dress I could find—the only one that feels even close to "business-ready."

I look over at Minji, who, as always, looks effortlessly good in her suit, like she was born to wear it. Honestly, I wish I could have an ounce of her "I have my life together" energy.

Minji's been a lifesaver these past few months, and I don't use that word lightly. She's been my lawyer, found me an apartment (same block as hers, thank God), and now she's helping me get a job.

It's for a position as the CEO's secretary, which sounds terrifying and exciting all at once. Miss Kang? I figure that's her name—company is Kang Industries, after all—but I haven't really thought too much about her.

All that's on my mind is nailing this interview. I've practiced every single question over and over, even if my confidence feels like it's faded with time.

"Everything's gonna be fine, Danielle," Minji says for the hundredth time.

I just give her a nod. She better be right.

We step into the building, and holy—this place is insane. Glossy marble floors, walls that seem to stretch up to the heavens, and a view of the city from every angle.

And I'm interviewing to be the CEO's secretary here? Am I dreaming? I don't know, but I think I want to go home.

Minji guides me to the elevator and points out the floor I should go to.

I take a deep breath as I step out and head toward the designated room. But when I enter, my heart nearly drops out of my chest.

It's her.

Haerin.

The Haerin from high school—the same one who I thought I'd left in the past for too long, along with every dumb teenage crush and awkward memory.

She's... taller now. Way taller. Easily something over 175 cm.

Her face is still stunning, framed by those sharp, cat-like eyes, and she's got this aura about her that I could only describe as... regal?

She looks as shocked as I am. Though she quickly masks it with a cool, indifferent expression.

I sit across from her, doing my best to keep my mouth from falling open.

She just stares, like she's reading me, judging me. But not in a way that feels dismissive—more like she's analyzing.

Her gaze locks onto mine. Cold. Unreadable. It's nothing like the shy, quiet girl I knew back in high school. Of course not. Who am I kidding? It's been years since that.

"So, Miss Marsh," she starts, her tone as crisp as the suit she's wearing. "Let's get into your experience and what makes you suitable for this role."

I clear my throat, sitting up straighter.

Fine, if she's going to be all business, so will I.

I pull out my resume and hand it over, along with a few documents I'd prepared about my past projects.

"I understand you're looking for someone who can keep up with a demanding schedule and manage both administrative and personal tasks," I begin, careful to keep my tone professional. "While I've been out of the workforce for a bit, I've maintained a variety of skills that I believe would make me valuable here. I've worked extensively with scheduling, managing appointments, coordinating travel, and even organizing complex events."

Her face doesn't change. "And yet, you've been... out of work for some time now?" Her eyes flicker up. The coldness in them took me away for a moment.

I swallow. "Yes, that's true. I stepped back to focus on my family. But during that time, I managed multiple charity events, organized fundraisers, and kept up with industry tools and software. I'm confident that I could bring those skills to this position."

She doesn't nod. Doesn't smile. Just flips through my paperwork. "I see. And in terms of handling confidential information, this role requires complete discretion. Can you guarantee that?"

"Absolutely. I've managed confidential information in the past, including finances, sensitive communication, and private client meetings. I treat privacy and confidentiality with the utmost respect."

Haerin pauses, tapping a finger on her desk. "This job also requires resilience. There's a lot of high pressure work. Can you handle that?"

"With all due respect, Miss Kang, I think I've been through enough to know that I can handle pressure. I'm prepared to work hard, and I'll make sure you don't regret hiring me."

She raises a brow, just a slight movement, and I think I see a glimmer of interest. But the moment's gone as quickly as it arrived. Her eyes cold again.

"Thank you for your time, Miss Marsh." Then she's already looking down at her notes, focusing back on her paperwork, dismissing me without another glance.

I stand up, gather my files, and head straight for the door.

She's so different now. No trace of the girl I once knew. Does she even remember?

I hesitate, glancing back, wanting to ask, but... no.

She's not the Haerin from high school anymore. She's moved on.

Outside, I let out a heavy sigh.

Fate must really have it out for me, bringing me face-to-face with her like this. If I'd known she'd end up like this, maybe I wouldn't have... Never mind.

I spot Minji. Her eyes light up as she sees me. "How'd it go?"

Without saying a word, I rush forward, wrapping my arms around her and pulling her into a crushing hug.

She doesn't question it, just strokes my back. "It's okay, Danielle. Whatever happens, it'll be fine."

I pull back and take her hands, looking at her like she holds the answer to everything. "Why didn't you tell me it was Kang Haerin?"

Minji's face shifts, surprise flickering across her features. "Wait, that Haerin? You mean...?"

I shoot her a sharp look. I swear, this pookie bear!

She just laughs. "Ah, so it's that Haerin! Oh, Danielle, if I'd known, I would've warned you!"