The Morning After
The sun filtered through the blinds, casting a soft, golden glow over Jungkook's room. He woke up feeling unusually energetic, a sense of anticipation building in his chest. It wasn't just the night before that had him so pumped—it was also the thought of seeing Jimin again. The way they had spent the day together, the unspoken bond that had grown between them, was still fresh in his mind.
After a quick shower and breakfast, Jungkook dressed in his usual sharp, professional attire, but there was something different about his energy today—more lively, more eager. He couldn't quite put his finger on it, but he felt as though the day would be the start of something more with Jimin.
At the Office:
Jungkook arrived at the office building, his steps light with excitement. He was already thinking about how he could talk to Jimin, how he could bridge the gap that had started to form the day before. He was determined not to let any awkwardness linger between them.
But then, just as he approached the entrance, he spotted Jimin.
Jimin was walking toward the building as well, his steps purposeful but his gaze lowered, as if he hadn't noticed Jungkook yet. But it didn't matter—Jungkook had already seen him, and that was all he needed.
"Jimin!" Jungkook called out, his voice carrying a sense of warmth.
Jimin's head snapped up at the sound of his name, his face softening when he saw Jungkook standing there, a smile already spreading across his face.
"Hey," Jimin replied, a quiet but genuine smile on his lips. "Good morning."
"Good morning," Jungkook said, stepping closer. The two of them began walking side by side toward the building entrance.
They both entered the building together, their steps in sync, the air around them charged with a subtle but unmistakable tension. Jungkook's heart raced slightly—he couldn't help it. He was just happy to be walking beside Jimin again.
As they stepped into the lobby, Jungkook slowed, surprised to find a small crowd gathered. The HR manager, Ms. Kim, stepped forward, clapping enthusiastically.
"Congratulations, Jungkook!" she beamed.
Jungkook and Jimin both looked confused, Jimin's brow furrowing as he turned to Jungkook, silently asking, What's going on? Are we exposed? Did you already tell everyone that we're... things?
"Your company has officially been selected to join the Elite Group of Companies!" Ms. Kim announced.
Jimin and Jungkook both breathed a sigh of relief—it was not what they had been thinking. But after a moment, Jungkook registered what Ms. Kim had said and asked, "Wait, what?"
Jungkook was stunned. He couldn't believe it. "The Elite Club?" he repeated, his voice barely above a whisper. It was his dream to take his company this high. He was shocked, surprised, but most of all, happy. He had done it.
As the applause settled, Jungkook stood frozen, processing the unexpected news. Jimin, sensing his friend's confusion, nudged him gently.
"Hey, are you okay?" Jimin asked, his voice laced with concern.
Jungkook blinked, still in disbelief. "I... I had no idea. I thought the application process was still ongoing."
Ms. Kim smiled warmly. "It was, but your company's leadership and recent achievements accelerated the process. Your innovative approach and strategic vision stood out."
"Thank you," Jungkook replied, his voice steady, though inside, his emotions were a storm—excitement, disbelief, but most of all, joy.
After a few minutes of congratulations, Ms. Kim added, "There will be a formal celebration next week, but we couldn't wait to tell you." Jungkook nodded.
As the crowd began to disperse, Jimin leaned in a little, his voice low so only Jungkook could hear.
"You really didn't know?"
Jungkook shook his head, laughing softly. "No idea. I thought I'd have to wait weeks."
Jimin's smile widened. "Well, I guess you're full of surprises, CEO Jeon."
The title made Jungkook laugh again, but this time it carried a different kind of warmth. "Guess that makes you my favorite co-conspirator, Park."
There was a beat of silence. Then, as they stood in the lingering hum of congratulations, Jimin said quietly, "I'm really proud of you, Jungkook."
Jungkook met his gaze, heart skipping again. "Thanks, Jimin."
"You know, this could open doors for us in the West. Faster clearance, smoother operations..." Jimin said.
Jungkook nodded, the weight of the situation settling in. "Yeah. It's a big step."
Jimin's gaze softened. "And you're not alone in this. We've got your back."
Jungkook met his eyes, gratitude swelling in his chest. "Thanks, Jimin. That means more than you know."
They shared a quiet moment, the unspoken bond between them stronger than ever.
***********"*********************************
§∆§
Later that day, the office buzzed with excitement. Word had spread quickly about the company's new status, and employees were eager to show their support.
At lunch, Jungkook sat at his usual spot, but today, the atmosphere was different. His colleagues approached him one by one, offering congratulations and words of encouragement.
Jungkook smiled, feeling a warmth spread through him. It wasn't just about the achievement—it was about the people who had supported him along the way.
As the day went on, more and more colleagues came by to offer their congratulations. Each gesture, each word, added to the sense of accomplishment and camaraderie that filled the office.
§∆§
Later, as the workday drew to a close, Ms. Kim gathered everyone for a brief meeting.
"I just wanted to take a moment to thank each and every one of you," she said. "This achievement is a testament to your dedication and hard work. Let's continue to strive for excellence together."
The room erupted in applause, and Jungkook felt a swell of pride. This wasn't just his success—it was the company's success.
As the team began to disperse, Jimin caught Jungkook's eye and gave him a thumbs up. Jungkook returned the gesture, his heart full.
The day had started with uncertainty, but now, it ended with a sense of unity and purpose. they had reached a new milestone Together—and together they would continue to rise.