"I don't understand," Lisa Manoban said through the phone. "I've been working alone. You trained me to work alone - I don't need a partner, Nick!" She calms the irritation by smoothening her dark blue blazer.

Be cool Lisa...calm and collected, she told herself...somewhere in between the screaming of I want to kill him for this! She could tell that her boss is exasperated by the sound of him sighing deeply, and she immediately toned down. "Is this about that scratch on the company's van? I told you I'll pay to get it fixed - it wasn't even my fault that the cyclist came outta nowhere -"

"It's not just that -" She could also tell that Nickhyun is trying his very best to not shout at her. "Look, Lis. You know how much I appreciate you. You've done amazing work for the agency and I'm not sugar-coating it when I say you've single-handedly saved the company last year with the AIS account. But with the success, the company's now getting bigger projects and I can't send you out there deciding everything by yourself! Believe me, it kills me too to put you up to this but I have to,"

Yeah...I bet it does, she thought. But I saved the company last year, don't I get some sort of immunity on this? Don't I get a say in things?? But of course, she can't say any of it. She needs to be humble and polite...cooperative, especially to the boss. "Why can't I just report my work like I used to? I get shit done easier by my own,"

"I know but that was before. Now that you've gotten us this far, I can't let you micromanage every single thing - especially for an 8.4-million project! Unless if you don't want it of course...I'll give you another one,"

Ugh, I hate it when he does this passive-aggressive shit! "And who would you give that account to?"

"It's not hard to form a team, Lis. You know there are others who already volunteered for this job but I wanna give it to you. But just for the record...if you don't want it, you should know that it'll be hard for me to trust them as much as I trust you -" Damn right! "Just let me know and I'll put it up for auction...although I'd rather not since you're the best man I got in here,"

Again with all these passive-aggressive - "Woman - but I get what you're saying,"

"Lis, step off your pedestal a little, will you? Just one or two down, just this once. It's not that hard, right? You know for a fact that this Lotte account means big for us - the perfume line is only the beginning. If we do a good job at this, it'll secure us a much bigger fish...all I'm asking for is for you to accept this partner,"

Lisa sighs up to the ceiling above her. It's way too early for a headache like this...I haven't even had my morning coffee yet! "I mean...I don't see any other choice here,"

"Great! You'll be working with Jeon Jungkook,"

"Who? I've never heard of him before - is he new in the office?"

"He's this analysis whiz kid from Lotte," Nickhyun said. "They're only agreeing to us with the condition that this Jeon guy will be monitoring our marketing and PR plans, as well as making sure we're working within the budget we said we would,"

"So basically, they're sending in a spy?"

"In lay-man terms...yeah. This is a crucial project for us, Lis. I don't care if they're sending army tanks full of Koreans here, we need to make sure we don't flop,"

"I never flop."

"No, you only got yourself or other people into accidents and that'll all be under our costs. This Jeon guy will be reporting back to Lotte how we're spending on unnecessary fixes and we can't afford a bad rep on this,"

"Just a question, who's really in charge of this project cus if it's him, I'd rather quit,"

"No, no. It's you," As if sensing the suppressed anger, he continues with a softer voice, "Just think of him as an advisor. Listen when he speaks his concerns and assure him like you always do to all our clients. Please...please cooperate, Lis,"

"Fine. You better hope he's not an asshole or I'll happily throw him on the plane back to Korea - I don't care if I lose 8 million -"

"We. If 'we' lose an 8-million account. Lis...haven't I been good to you all this while? I let you get away with a lot of things - I fired people, vendors, all based on the trust I have on you. All I'm asking is for you to not abuse that trust. We've come a long way to be here now but please remember that you're still an employee here. And I'm still your boss. Please talk to me with a little bit of respect,"

Lisa shuts her eyes, feeling a bunch of regrets rising in her chest. Of course it's a foolish thing for me to act like this but he didn't need to guilt-trip me like this! I can't help it - I'm just...so mad!! "I'm sorry, Nick. I understand...I'll do better,"

"Thanks Lis. So Jeon Jungkook will be arriving tonight. You'll be meeting him at ten tomorrow in his suite,"

"Suite? Why can't he come to the office?"

"Lisa, please. Just meet him there and bring him around the sites. Then bring him to the office. I'm sure he'll get along well with you and familiar with the roads by then, so it's easier to get him to travel from The Westin to the office after that."

"Should I bring a dictionary?" Her annoyed voice is so obvious, she's sure he caught it.

"No Lis, he speaks fluent English," He laughed. Glad I'm still funny!

"Fine. His suite at ten." She said with a clipped tone and heard him thanking her with relief.

...

Lisa slammed the office door a little too hard and slumped herself onto the brown chair across her desk. The visit to the restroom to wash her face failed on lowering the amount of temper she has over the earlier phone call with Nickhyun. She heard the small click of the door and open her eyes to find Minnie, her secretary - placing a box of Awake's caffeinated chocolate energy bites onto her desk.

"Nick called and asked me to put this here," she said. "Just think of the greater love beyond that call. You know he means well,"

She took one and pops it into her mouth. "Sometimes I wonder if you're my secretary or his,"

"Yours, definitely! But he signs off my paycheck every month so," Minnie pulls one off the foil and answers casually. "You know what I still wonder?"

"Oh no, please don't say it -"

"That why are you two not even romantically involved yet?"

"Minnie, I really have zero energy to shout at anyone right now -"

"Like, how are you friends for the longest time, built this empire together, and not fall in love with each other? Nick is such a hottie too -"

"You did not just call the founder of the company a 'hottie',"

"I stand by it," The nonchalant shrug makes her feel like laughing. "Seriously, you're the only one he cares about so much among everyone here. Not even two seconds after you ended the call, he rang me up - knowing full well that you'll either scream in the Ladies or the rooftop, then asked me to prepare this to calm you down. How are you two not married yet??"

This, unfortunately, I know. Briefly, she recalled the night when Nickhyun had gotten a little more drunk than he used to after one of their many company dinners 8 months ago. His declaration of love for her was hard to miss - practically begging her to consider his true feelings to which she had politely denied over and over in the course of sending home that night.

Thankfully, Nickhyun seemed to have lost his memory the next day - or so he pretended to have lost it but lucky for her as it would've been more awkward - and Lisa had pretended it never happened too since! It hadn't been working well on days like this - example, exhibit NOW - but she likes to look at the bright side of things.

"I told you this and I'll tell you again - hopefully, for the last time. We've been friends since we were kids - he just knows me too damn well by now, that's it!"

"Is that why you don't find him hot? Cus you've seen him in snots?"

Oh, who am I kidding? Minnie won't ever let this go - "Can we not talk about my best friend slash owner-of-the-company please? I have bigger things to think about. I need to figure out how I'm gonna do a good job under the scrutiny of Jeon Jungkook,"

"Ooo...who's he?"

Lisa hangs her head back on the chair. "Some...Korean rep from Lotte. I'll be stuck with an old man in a suit for the next 3 months - fuck, kill me now!"

"In a suit, yes. Old man, no - oh damn, he's hot! Oh wait, he's the same age as us,"

"What?" She opens her eyes to Minnie's frowning - so focused on the screen of her phone in hand. "Are you Google-ing him? How are you so fast at this??"

"Research does wonders. You said that. Here - it says it. Jeon Jungkook, 24 years old, Manager of Business Development and Analysis of Lotte. Look at him!" Minnie shoved the phone right to her face. "Tall. Doe-eyes. Jawline. Look at that curved lips. You sure he's not just a model they hired to seduce and distract you over here?"

True, true, true...so true. Ugh, why am I getting this account only now?? She knew the answer to that. It's because she just wrapped up all the reports of her last account - spending way too much time figuring out how to cover the 'miscellaneous' costs from being detected! "I have no idea. All I know is I gotta get on his good side or Nick might fire my ass,"

"Pshh...who are you kidding? Nick won't fire you. He'll get mad - like real mad, but he won't fire you. He loves you so damn much -"

"I swear if you don't stop doing that, I'll tell Nick to get me a new secretary by end of this week,"

"And you love me too much," The pouty lips annoys the hell out of her but she's right. Minnie might be annoying when she talks about Nickhyun like this but she's probably the only one that gets how Lisa works. And she's also the source of all gossips around here! It helps getting Lisa on her feet! "Anyway, this Jeon Jungkook looks harmless. I can tell he's a nice guy just from his eyes...and sexy - he looks like someone who'd look so good waking up to in bed,"

"Mm-hmm...you should seduce him then. Maybe he'll get distracted with your cute slow-walks out the door to continue your work," Lisa rolled her eyes and refresh the computer screen, ready to get back on researching about the 8.4-million project. 8 million...eyes on the prize...

...

The elevator door opened, and the butler got out - gesturing her with one hand to the open foyer across the door to the suite. She had never been this high up in The Westin before, but the service is definitely top notch! Looking past her shoulder, she watched as the butler walked before her and pressed the bell. Lisa scans around the empty walls and high ceiling, waiting for someone to show up.

The door finally opened, revealing the face she'd seen on Google last night. Jeon Jungkook stands tall and bold, with an undisputedly best-looking face she had ever seen in real life. He looks even better in person! Radiating power and authority, his features are strong and serious - a hint of smile only found in his sparkling eyes.

"Lalisa Manoban, right?" His voice is smooth and almost silky, dripping in solids like honey. Lisa puts her best smile and nods. She was about to introduce herself formally before he continues, "You're late,"

O...kay. I don't like him already! She turned to the watch on her wrist and saw the extra 3 minutes. It's 3 fucking minutes!!

"I'm sorry," She gritted in her teeth - still putting on her best PR face on.

"We have a lot to discuss before we get everything started. Let's try to be punctual so we won't mess with the timeline, shall we?"

This pretty - I mean petty! Petty motherf- "Would help if I don't have to go through 2 security formalities and a 3-minutes ride to get up here," She slipped and noticed the small smirk at the edge of his lips. "But of course, noted on the human delivery process, Mr Jeon. I'll make sure to be earlier in the future," She covers it with a smile.

"Please put Miss Manoban under my guestlist. Let the reception know that they should call you the moment she enters the hotel and that there should be no delays," The strict direction towards the butler was way too serious for 'just a manager from Korea', but she kept that thought to herself.

He moved to a side, gesturing her in and Lisa took a deep breath before she enters. The suite is big and clean, with glass windows reaching all the way up to the ceiling. Behind it lays a part of Bangkok city - although she can't really tell which part from where she's standing. Shortly from the door, she enters a large foyer - with sleek, white sectional sofas before the mounted television on one side, an opaque-glass French sliding door beside it, and a large kitchen area on the other.

Fancy place! Just how important is this guy, really?

"Please have a seat, Miss Manoban -"

"Lisa...just Lisa is fine,"

"Lalisa...I've ordered a brunch set, in case you haven't had anything to eat. I wasn't sure what time you normally have breakfast here," He probably didn't mean anything by it but it annoys her nevertheless.

"Thank you, so kind of you. It's the same time as the rest of the world...when we get up and showered. It's a wonder that it's not served yet...I'm sure you told them I'll be arriving at ten?" She answered as casually as she could, not making any eye-contact to break her courage.

He took his seat in the armchair beside the sofa she sat and she's aware of the gaze on her. There's already a couple of folders on the coffee table with a few papers sticking out. It seems he's been doing some reading before as well.

"You don't mind me recording the minutes do you? Since it looks like it's gonna be a long discussion -"

"I don't mind. Anything that'll help us run this project smoothly," Can he not sound any more cocky?! "It'll be a waste of time for us to discuss things here and forgetting on what's already decided. And before we get started, I need to remind you that as mentioned in our email with Mr Nickhyun last Monday, everything needs to be as transparent as possible to us. Especially the spending. All budgets need to go through me. All vendors, bookings, purchase orders, and payments...my role is to make sure you get all the resources you need correctly and run the campaign according to the right procedures and channels. This is so Lotte won't face any troubles from your government in the future. We are quite excited on growing our business here, I'm sure you can tell,"

Oh yes...yes he can! Of course I'm aware of all these things - why is he taunting on my nerves?!

He leaned back to his chair while she kept the blank mask. "I can assure you that we don't run any funny business here, Mr Jeon. All our clients have been accommodative as well as they've been happy with our services -"

"I'm sure they do, but they're not giving you half of what we're paying you so I appreciate if you can understand how serious we are with this," Did he just cut me off to insult my babies -

"I do understand. As I was saying, we'll definitely provide you the in-and-outs of every details. We hold no secrets to our clients, regardless of how little amount they spend on us," She snapped back and saw the slight raise of eyebrows from the man. Good to know I can surprise him! "If you're done with the reminders, shall we get started?"

...

"What about the quality of their work - have they messed up on any jobs before?" Cocky as he is for the past 3 hours, it's indeed proven that he's as thorough and professional as it gets. And Lisa can't seem to get enough of staring at his profile when he wasn't looking. He had his sleeves folded up to his elbows, revealing a bunch of decorated black inks from his right wrist up and it made her wonder what kind of man he really is. Those tattoos don't match his uptight personality at all!

"Not with us - never,"

"When will we be meeting them?"

"I can schedule it once we finalize the visuals. It's best to have them prepare the mock-ups and color-proofs for us to identify whether we're going ahead with them. That's normally how we work...we don't wanna promise vendors anything without guaranteeing they'll deliver the job perfectly,"

He nods down to the paper, listening politely. In times like this, he almost look like a decent man. It's annoying because she already vowed to not like him - be it professionally or personally.

"That's the last one, right? Do you have any questions?" Jeon Jungkook scanned the table before returning to Lisa.

"Yes. You mentioned before about the company that'll be handling the shipment of the merchandises...Cross Whitmans?" He nods again. "Will you be the one overseeing them as well?"

"Why do you ask?"

"Just cus...Whitmans have a little reputation of not delivering on time - just words among the retail industry here. I've heard it from a few of our previous clients as well. I'm just wondering if you'll pay the same amount of attention to them as you are with us,"

As she watched him looking up to her, her eyes widened slightly. Sighing a small smile, he lets go of the iPad onto the table - leaning back and resting his face on one elbow and looking like a GQ model. "Are you intimidated by my presence here, Lalisa? Is that why you keep bringing up my 'attention' to the project?"

Am I intimidated by the GQ-looking model-manager from Korea - pshh! "I'm merely sharing an information that might be useful to you -"

"And implying that this so-called 'attention' isn't a normal thing to do for a project this big. Also, you might wanna correct that phrase since you're the one who insisted how I don't have to worry about your agency's reputation - it'll be like comparing an apple to an orange...right?"

He's patronizing me...definitely! "I don't need to correct it, Mr Jeon. I think you've been extremely helpful and meticulous, and that kind of push will be an advantage to ensure that Cross Whitmans will not fuck up your shipments' timeline. In terms of reputation, yes, you're right - but my phrase wasn't directed to that. I'm referring to the fact that we both - at the end of the day - are agencies hired to complete Lotte's project successfully, and by that yes...it's apple to apple," She can't help the swearing, only the rising temper.

A grin appeared and it caught her off guard. It's a real smile as if he was seeing her for the first time, accepting and recognizing her as an equal. Briefly, she imagined that it's the moment where he realized the absurdity of his own power play since she stepped into this suite! Go ahead...hit me with another line and I'll wipe that smile off your face so fast - I don't care how good-looking you are!

"Forgive me for the misunderstanding. And to answer your question, yes...me and another colleague of mine will be managing them. I'll be handling the paperworks here and my colleague will be managing from Korea. Mind me asking, if they're not good...who would you suggest instead?"

"Me?" Are we playing 'teacher's pet' now cus I snitched a little on Whitmans?? "Oh, I'm not that familiar with that line of work, Mr Jeon -"

"Jungkook. Just Jungkook,"

Lisa raised her eyebrows. "Okay...Jungkook. I can ask around if you want...although it might not be of much help if you've already signed with them,"

"Let me worry about that...but yes, if you don't mind...I'd appreciate some guidance,"

What is he doing? Why is he all nice - after 3 hours - all of a sudden?? "Sure, I'll reach out to you once I have the list,"

Seemingly happy with her answer, he leans forward and got up. Lisa was about to finish her drink when his thumb touched the back of her hand. "Do you want more water?" He didn't remove it.

Lisa could only manage a hum as her throat went dry, noticing how close his face is to hers.

...

She really shouldn't be laughing but it's becoming extremely hard not to. Especially when her boss-slash-best friend is being so worried like this!

"You did that on purpose, right? Just admit it - it kills you to work with him so you did this to rebel on me -"

"Oh my God, calm down Nick! It's not like he'll die!" She groaned to the phone.

"You don't know that!!" Again, she suppressed her laughter. "You better check on him - if he needs proper treatment, send him to the hospital and prepare to pray extra hard that he gets better or so help me -"

Jeez - was there even any reported deaths from eating spicy green curry?? "Look, he said he wanted to try it. You really can't put this on me alone - it's not my fault that he has sensitive guts!"

"You - I swear to God Lis...if you don't take care of your partner, I'll...I'll tell your mom what you did in Phuket 5 years ago!"

Lisa gasped loudly, recalling the flashing lights and centered stage. "You wouldn't!! That - that's personal! How are you using that to threaten me about work??"

"Well, it seemed you're being personal at work too so I guess we'll be even!"

Ugh - why am I surrounded by a bunch of assholes?? She stomped on the carpet of her living room - scaring the felines a little as they scattered to the back of the couch. 2 went hiding underneath the dining table. My poor big, baby Leo...see what you've done??

"Fine! I'll check on him but just so you know, I'm not gonna deny his rights to eat whatever the fuck he wants for the next 3 months so either you prep yourself with a bunch of medical bills or tell him to stick to what he knows!"

...

On the fourth day of 'nursing' Jeon Jungkook at his suite, Lisa brought Minnie along to help her with the paperworks. She was used to the working-mode in the office and this ambiance is just not ideal for one to be proactive.

It's too quiet that it got her forcing whispers in the phone calls to all the third parties - postponing their meetings to when the Korean might be healthy again. Too solemn for her mind to energetically process the campaign's ad concepts and booking of locations. Not to mention, getting distracted over the pale-yet-still-beautiful face in the many times she sent those nursing food to his bedside - but of course, she'll never admit that she spent probably longer minutes staring at him sleeping than just placing the foods!

If he'd only agreed on being admitted to the hospital - I won't have to be here so often! There's progress though...the colors have returned to his face this morning when she found him in the kitchen, making a toast by himself.

"Please accept my sincere apologies, Lalisa. I know we have a lot to catch up on, since we've skipped 3 days now..." She looks up to the genuine regret on his face. "And thank you. I appreciate you looking out for me while I was bed-ridden," His voice is soft and smooth...still like honey. Still so calm...still so classy.

The veins on his right hand flexed and relaxed as he played with the pen. Lisa can't help but stare at the ease, and she's reminded of the first day when she was here - when their skins accidentally met. She'd watched it a hundred times and it's always a little mind-blowingly cringey to see the stupidity of wanting someone so bad after only the first meet...but now she got it. Kind of...

When his fingers slowed down, Lisa's gaze fell on the intensity of his eyes on her. She looked away almost immediately as she felt a nervous smile flit over her face.

"No worries. I'm just glad you feel better. And maybe...don't ask for authentic Thai food for now," Her answer made him chuckle and she felt a nudge on her elbow. Minnie is smiling sheepishly while keeping her head down. Stop...was she watching me? Please, no...

"You're right. I didn't think it'll be that spicy...I should've asked. But it tasted so good, I still remember it," The smile is wide...could be deceiving.

Still, it made her laugh. "Yeah...you could've mentioned that you can't take spicy food. I would've suggested something else,"

"I do. We have spicy food in Korea too...maybe just a different kind,"

"Different breed of peppers...I'd like to try some,"

"You should! Please come one day, I'll treat you to some delicious, spicy meals!" He leans forward, looking like an excited puppy for the very first time.

"Careful, I might keep your word on it," She teased, just because she likes him looking cute and all.

"Keep it. I promise I'll take good care of you like how you did with me," His voice is suddenly low and melting. Why does it sound like he's flirting? Those clear brown eyes. That classic, chiseled mouth - walls...don't crumble!!

Lisa breaks the eye-contact and scrambled with her words, "Storyboard. They sent it. I've emailed you my thoughts, maybe you'd have comments of your own?"

He sighed a few silent laughs before looking down to his iPad. Aishh...what's wrong with me? I was never this awkward with a guy, right? Far from that - well, this isn't just any guy you meet through friends or the bars, isn't it? No...this is a partner. A client. It's ethically gross for her to flirt with him in any way! Partly irritated, Lisa peeked at the paper Minnie held towards her.

'Come on you can do better'

Lisa glared before writing back languidly, 'Pretend you didn't hear any of that and focus please'

She could tell that Minnie's trying hard not to laugh and it annoys the hell out of her!

...

The 'nice' only lasted through that evening. Ten days have passed since then and Lisa finds her patience being tested over and over again. Be it in the meeting room she had him placed in as a temporary office or at this now-familiar suite of his, they'd get into banters - sometimes friendly and sometimes not so friendly. She wasn't sure what it does for him but it's getting on her nerves. Tired and restless, she takes another deep breath as they finally agreed on securing the ad spaces along Bangkok's MRT.

"About the campaign...your preliminary ideas were fine. Why are we changing the brief?" What the hell? I thought we've covered this, why are we discussing it now?

"We didn't. The initial one presented were sketches and rough storyline. This is the full storyboard -"

"Which would include more costs than what we had in mind,"

Lisa tries her best to stay calm. "We shared the rough estimates with you and your marketing department before. It shouldn't cost more than that,"

"Can we cut from 5 sets to 3?"

"You're bringing in an entire 12 perfume collections and we're only asking to highlight 7. For each of these, you marketed it in your country with different concepts. The fact that we could squeeze it into 5 sets is already good enough, and now you're asking to do 3?"

"Or maybe build it up instead of renting all these places - would that be more cost-effective?" This stingy ass - it's not like it's his own money!

"Look, Jungkook...the brief by your management was to do what works for the market. We've done all our parts - from market trends to consumer surveys. Everything was shared across with your team, I really don't understand what the problem is here -"

"The problem is that there will be additional, underlying costs behind shooting this campaign - do you honestly think I don't know how it works? A lot of issues, difficulties could arise when you shoot outdoor - change in weather, local incidents and broken props. And what about permits? These factors will reflect back on both our budget and timeline and you know it," Jungkook folded his arms calmly - so calm even, that it annoys her even more. "Do you know how much it'll cost if we build it up?"

"Like I said, it's already forecasted in the cost estimates," God - is it so hard to understand?? "Studio build-ups will be fine for still images but not for a video. I don't know the exact number but I can tell you, it's definitely way more expensive than using natural resources,"

"Really? It's cheaper back in my country..." Then fucking go back to your country and do it yourself!! Lisa's anger is palpable and she was sure that he would've overheard that comment if he paid enough attention! "But I guess it could be different here. Please let me know how much so we can compare,"

It...could?? If I say it is, then IT FUCKING IS!! So now he's giving me more shit to do? She is so ready to throw hands...or her resignation letter! "I'm sorry but is this how it's gonna be for the next 3 months? You're gonna dictate every single thing we proposed to its roots?"

He raised his eyebrows - as if he didn't expect that to come out from her mouth. "I wasn't aware that I was dictating...I thought it was a discussion?" His doe-eyes widened like he's genuinely surprised, but Lisa refused to see it that way.

A discussion involving him questioning all our ideas so brazenly - is he serious?? It was too much and she suddenly feel drained. "It didn't sound like a discussion to me rather than you implying everything we do is to squeeze every penny we can get out of Lotte," She started picking up the papers and folders on the table, shoving it roughly into her tote bag as she continues her frustrated ramblings -

"You know...we didn't beg to get this account. We didn't have any connections in your company, we pitched in, followed all the procedures and went through each steps carefully, just like we're supposed to. All the proposals sent to Lotte were kept strictly confidential until we signed the agreement. I get that we're not a big name - I'm sure there are bigger agencies who pitched for the account but there must be a reason why we're hired -"

"Lalisa, what -"

Don't 'Lalisa' me - "If we knew you'd trust us so little, we probably wouldn't have even accepted the job. You put 8.4 million on the line and we already saved you 4 million. You know what you can do with 4 million here? You can feed thousands of homeless people...probably buy a month of shelters for them until they get a job, feed an entire village or two, you can even retire and live off peacefully for maybe 10 years or so! Just saying that if we wanna dry you up, we wouldn't have gone through all that trouble," She can't even recall everything she just said. What's important is getting out of here. Away from Jeon Jungkook. Away from his antagonizing remarks...away from his pretty face -

"Lalisa -"

"I'm tired and I'll leave now. We've been going in circles again and again and I'm just...so fucking tired. I know you're only looking out for the best of this project and your company but you could be less of a dick about it, you know? I've been more than accommodative I'd say - I can take a few disagreements if it means we'll be on the same side in making this campaign a success. If you weren't so self-absorbed, you might be able to see that I'm passionate about it too. Like," She paused only to sigh a sarcastic smirk.

"Do you even know where I live?? It's all the way across town! I had to drive for an hour before I get home...and I've been attending to my cats at 1am for the past 10 nights cus for some reason, you kept asking and arguing with me around this hour! And have I sent any complaints? No. Do I even get a 'sorry for making your life harder than it already is'? Nooo -"

"Lalisa,"

"What?!" She turned, finding him already standing as if he's going to stop her from leaving.

"I'm sorry...for making your life harder," He pursed his lips into a straight line. There's something in his eyes too - is that...humor?? This asshole is laughing at me?

"Apology not accepted! You'll find a new partner to entertain all your shit tomorrow, Mr Jeon. Have a great night!" And with that, she stormed out the door - feeling hella satisfied with what she just did and not even his pretty face could've ruin it!

...

"Yes, come in," She heard Nickhyun's voice in between the slight gap of the door to his office.

This is it. No turning back. Aishh...me and my temper - what have I done?! The long ride back home last night had slowly dissipated the anger and satisfaction she felt before, and by the time she laid herself for a good night's sleep, she found herself in cold, rising anxiety. Regrets started whispering in, screaming at her for losing it in front of a client like that.

Never in her PR career had she said anything remotely close to what she had said to Jeon Jungkook. The most that she'd gotten upset before was at a government officer who had insisted that she should come back in 6 days to renew the contractor's permit because they were busy and she only called him 'a whiny-ass bitch' one time before leaving the office. But he wasn't a client.

This is indeed, a much different, critical situation than that. I just called a client's rep 'self-absorbed' and a 'dick'! That's the lowest I could get in this industry...no one will ever gonna hire me if they knew about this! I might have to change my profession after this. Aishh...this is so shitty!!

"So...you need to talk to me bout something?" Of course he already heard it from the man himself!

"Nick," She began arranging her words, just as how she practiced it. "I know I was wrong...and I'm sorry for disappointing you. I understand the implications of my actions. And because of that..." She slipped the white envelope across the mahogany desk - vaguely aware that her boss' eyes are on her.

"The hell is this?" He slides it back to her. "Look Lis, I may not know half of the trouble he's causing you...I might've worked you too hard too. I know it must've been tough but he apologized. And he'd like it if you can forgive him for lashing out yesterday,"

Lisa looks up - confused and slightly amused at the fact that her boss had gotten the story twisted. "Sorry, what?"

"We're talking bout Jeon Jungkook, right?" She nods. "I know you hate the guy but...he came to me this morning - said he might've scared you by lashing out in your meeting yesterday. He said there were some personal issues he had to deal with in Korea and it might've gotten him a little stressed out. He acknowledged his mistake and he apologized. He also promised and I quote - that he'd try his best to make your life so much easier than before - I think that means he'll be more attentive to your opinions. Please...you can't give up now. Not when he's already comfortable to work with you. Just give it a chance,"

What...did I hear it right? "He...said that?"

Nickhyun nodded convincingly. "I'm quite amazed, Lis. He praised your quality of work, and how you paid so much attention to details. And he's waiting in the meeting room to apologize to you personally,"

...

Lisa was running down her cost estimates when Jeon Jungkook came in. Yes, she promised her boss she'll meet the guy at the meeting room. No, she didn't go because she couldn't deal with the awkwardness. The only way to divert it, she thought, is to have this final costing done so they won't have to discuss 'last night' for long.

"Can I have a moment?" She nodded and forced her eyes to the screen of her laptop. He took the seat opposite her desk and she started chanting 'courteous and cooperative' in her head. "Lalisa, look at me,"

The hell I would! I'm not gonna risk jeopardizing my career again! "I'm revising the CE so you can see the amount we've agreed on. You should receive it by lunchtime."

"Lalisa, please look at me,"

"You can just say what you wanna say, I'm listening. Sorry, I just wanna get this done so we won't be wasting any more time -"

"Lalisa, you're not listening,"

She stopped her vigorous typing, her exasperation is evident as she faced him. I'm not listening?? Wasn't it him who haven't been listening to me?

"I'm sorry." It came out sounding so simple and calm...just the way he's been. "I think we've established a credible working relationship. I'm sorry if I made you feel otherwise. I understand that we have differences in our opinions but I do trust you,"

She can't help but rolled her eyes. 'Trust', my ass!

Jungkook lost his smile, seemingly worried by her less-than-enthusiastic energy. "Are you still angry?"

"I'm not angry. I'm just..." She sighed. "Annoyed,"

"Annoyed...at me?" No shit, Sherlock! "I'm guessing last night wasn't all you wanted to say?"

"See, this is what you do. You sit there - all calm with your charming voice and pretty face - treating me as if I'm an amusing child! This is not the teamwork I signed up for when I agreed on having a partner. You keep giving me orders and you hardly listen to me. Don't talk about trust when you clearly lack of it. You've been trying to intimidate me since day one, admit it! And when I tried reasoning things out with you, you keep looking at me as if you're laughing at me. Stop looking at me like that -"

"I wasn't laughing at you -"

"You were laughing and it makes me feel like a child. If we're gonna work together, you need to stop doing it cus it annoys the hell out of me! I'm a professional at my work, Jungkook. Not someone's secretary who nods for every single thing while you call all the shots -"

"You're right. But I was impressed by you, not laughing at you,"

Her mind stopped working as he said it, rubbing his hand over the back of his neck and smiling at her ruefully. In this moment, he looked more like a guy his age than the cocky, foreign manager - sheepish and apologetic. The look is devastatingly effective, making her heart go weak.

"I really am sorry to have made you feel this way. I guess the way I worked in my home country was a little different. More serious...every questions must be met with answers. And I didn't get to work much alongside anyone - most of the time it was conversation of decisions that has been made or informative thoughts. Please trust me when I say I didn't mean any harm," He swallowed.

Lisa looks down to the papers on her desk - thinking 'it would be a whole lot easier to stay mad at him if he wasn't so damn charming!'.

"I apologize again, Lalisa,"

His voice is pleasantly honeyed...and why am I still letting him call me by my full name? It's how it sounded, she thought. She loved the way it sounds in his voice. No, no, stop. I don't even like him. Professional - strictly professional!

"Fine," She answered evenly. "Apology accepted. And I'm sorry too...for calling you a dick,"

Jungkook grinned, taking her breath away for a moment. "You can buy me dinner and we'll start anew. Say...seven?"

She sighed a resigned smile. "Yes, I'll get take-outs as usual -"

"No, please. Let's finish at 6 today. And we'll leave for dinner. That way you won't be late for your cats," He tilts his head slightly and she thought he looked sexy. Don't do that! Still lingering for an answer, he stood and leaned slightly forward, resting both palms on her desk and staring straight into her eyes. "Strictly business. Please, Lalisa?"

Trying hard to ignore the silky, whispering voice, his invading fresh scent and the sculpted neckline down to his unbuttoned collared shirt, she took a deep breath before answering, 'fine, strictly business'.

...

This is just dinner. Strictly business...to a more fruitful partnership. It's harmless...probably meaningless as he might turn back into the blood-sucking vampire that he was tomorrow, she thought to herself. It didn't work.

As much as she hates to admit it, the anticipation for the dinner had grown more when he'd cautiously spent the day as far and quietly away from her. He kept himself busy in the meeting room and on con-calls and didn't even bother her in her own office space. It was awfully embarrassing that even seeing an email with his name on it got her excited. This is bad...so bad...

She fought down another spurt of panic when she saw him waiting at the elevator. Staring at his straight and solid profile from top to toe, she can't help but wonder if he has a lady waiting for him in Korea. His shadow stretched over her feet and strangely, it bits back a shiver. Maybe 'ladies'...he looked and sounded like a perfect gentleman - even professionally-speaking!

He looked up and she saw the sparks in his eyes again, smiling at her. "All ready?" The charming grin showed perfect rows of teeth - it's cute...he looks like a bunny!

Aishh...I'm in trouble!

...

Lisa clamped her lips together, scanning the grand ambiance of Kisso, the Japanese restaurant at The Westin. It wasn't hard for him to decide what he wanted to eat - he said it the moment they got on the elevator, didn't even bother to ask if she's fine with it. I would've been if he'd asked.

"Have you been here before?"

"Nope,"

"I just thought it'll save you some time driving back home later. You won't have to make an additional trip sending me back here," Or...you could just get a cab on your own -

Be nice, Lisa. He's being nice. And this is for a fruitful partnership. And, you like Japanese food. Looking at the fancy place, I'm sure the food will be great. And, you're paying with the company's credit card. So don't even worry how much it'll cost. And, he looks friendly. And gorgeous -

He motioned for the waiter and started placing orders. Lisa didn't mind the foreign names he called out as she busied herself with what's on the menu. Ooo...the wammori looks good! When she looks back up to order, the waiter had already left and Jungkook is sipping his water.

"Where's the waiter?"

"Oh, I've ordered for us a five-coursed set. Why - is there anything you'd like to add?" His eyes widened.

Oh...now you're asking? I didn't even get to choose the set?? "Yes, a wammori and wine," I need the drink to survive this dinner!

"Sure," The smile reached his eyes and he got up to find a waiter himself. He has potential...if he's not too bossy!

"It's nice to be able to sit outside of work, don't you think? Less stressful," He said, taking back his seat in front of her.

The only stress there was you. Even more when you ordered something I'm not even sure I'd like! She plastered a smile. Be nice, Lisa.

"Thank you for suggesting dinner. And being thoughtful of my drive back home. I'm glad you're taking me and our working relationship seriously now, cus I think we can do so much better," She said politely.

"I agree. We started off on the wrong foot - me, mainly, of course. And I'm truly sorry for that," His brown eyes is looking at her with complete sincerity, making her blush a little. "Tell me about yourself,"

"Why?" Lisa blinked and Jungkook seemed taken aback.

"I just think it's important for people who work together to uh...get to know each other better,"

She thought about it. She never had to reveal anything personal to a client before. Sure, they'd ask where she lives and how long she's been with the company before, but it wasn't really about 'her'. But then this is a partner...working more closely than any clients had before.

"What do you wanna know?"

"Everything," For a second, the answer startled her. "Anything that you don't mind sharing, of course,"

"Well...I've been with Sphere Network since I was 19. It was my first job and I started as an executive, shadowing the brand consultants around,"

"And is it something you've always wanted to do? PR and brand management?"

The soup arrived and she took the spoon, tapping it lightly while she thought about his question. "I guess...not really. I didn't exactly know what I wanted to do back then. I sort of avoided diploma as an option, even when my family insisted on it,"

"Why is that?"

She sighed a smile, down to her soup. Ahh fuck it, it's a long time ago anyway! "I was supposed to attend Kasetsart University. I applied it with my then-boyfriend before he cheated on me with one of my close friends - who happened to get accepted in the same faculty as me. Naturally, I was an angry 18-year-old who didn't wanna spend another 3 years watching the two lovebirds around so I didn't go," She laughed a little. "Stupid, I know,"

"No, it's not," She looks up to his frown. "You were hurt. It wasn't stupid. Not that it brought you here, now,"

Charming, intelligent, and polite. A dangerous combination.

"Anyway," She shook her head a little - taking herself out of the trance of his gaze. "I spent close to a year traveling around Thailand with a few friends...a little lost and unsure about the future. When I came back home, Nick offered a job in his start-up and asked if I wanna try it out -"

"Nick...as in Nickhyun, the founder?"

"Yeah. We were neighbors before. Went to the same school and all,"

"I see. It does look like he knows you well," His lips turned into a straight line. "He looked pleasantly happy when I asked him to ask for your reconsideration this morning. And he was really sure that you wouldn't run from this project - to which I wasn't so convinced. It must be nice...to have a superior fully trusting your capabilities in your line of work,"

She wasn't quite sure how to respond to that. Not just the fact that his earlier friendly smile had turned into a grim one, even his tone sounded different. Was he reminded of something? He mentioned that his way of working in Korea was serious...is the topic a little sentimental for him?

"So are you happy?"

She blinked again, pausing the spoonful of soup mid-air.

"With the work you're doing,"

"I mean...I'm happy when I get the job done. I'm happy when my clients are happy,"

"And your boss?"

"Well...I'm happy if he's happy with my work too. It means I won't have to worry about getting fired," She laughed and the his smile is back.

"That's a promising answer, Lalisa," She wasn't sure what it meant but she smiled back nevertheless. "And what about life? Are you happy?"

She shifted her eyes from one side to another, thinking of an answer. "I haven't really..." Ahh...I've already embarrassed myself way too many times! But honesty will get us through this partnership smoothly, right? "...gotten there yet,"

"There...where?"

She pursed her lips before answering carefully, "Where I feel wanted," 

He tilts his head to a side, as if trying to find some sort of closure to her response. 

Instead of waiting for his reply, she cheered excitedly, "Your turn,"

He hesitated at first, but by the time the mains were served, Lisa already knew more than what Google had informed her. They actually have a lot in common. They both spent their teens to twenties working instead of studying. They're both truly passionate at completing their work. They both had disastrous relationships in the past. Although his was much recent and she didn't cheat on him with a friend, but with a tattoo artist - after asking him to tattoo her name on his arm.

Both now laughing at the story, she forgot how high-handed he was. He seems to be in a more natural state now...more human. Sweet, kind, vulnerable...obviously dazzling...a sexy package, she thought. Is it even a big deal that he can sometimes be so bossy??

"It took me about 6 months to cover it all up. This is the most recent," He pulled the sleeve up even more - showing her a flower resembling a lily but her attention perked up at the outlines of his veins. "It's my birth month flower,"

"It looked like a lily!" Her natural high-pitched voice made an appearance nervously.

"It does?"

She nods enthusiastically. "Like tiger lilies...with the spots. Only lilies have more petals. Yours have less,"

"You seem to know a lot about lilies,"

"There was a phase when I was obsessed with them. When I first got together with my ex, he used to call me Lily. Gave me lilies on my birthdays, his mom grew lilies in their backyard so he'd take pictures and send it to me...just...you know...teen's things," She laughed a little.

"Does it mean you hate it now?"

"God, no! It's pretty, why would I hate it?"

"Well...I like Lalisa better than Lily," There's a look of admiration. His eyes gazed into hers as if he was trying to convince the authenticity of his confession. It was intensely flattering and a little unsettling.

...

Things started looking up, brighter and better, since their dinner three weeks ago. Sure, they still had a few disagreements...and he's still a little bossy, but at least he's listening more and more. And he'd always make sure she left with a smile rather than a swear. He's friendlier...and that's a good thing for the project.

She, on the other hand, had been fighting off the commanding voice in her mind - shouting 'that smile must get a lot - stop staring at him!' more often. It's kind of hard not to stare when the guy kept giving her long gazes containing hidden messages only he knows every time they're in the same space together. It's like a challenge, and she refused to lose!

"When's the final shoot, Lis?" It sounded like an echo in the background of a film. "Lisa?" Nickhyun's second call of her name forced her to tear yet another wicked, unspoken longing - or is it just his form of some humorous communication? - eye contact with Jungkook. She looks up to find her boss and her secretary's eyes on her...as well as the man whose look has been getting her heart squealing like it's about to explode out of her chest.

"Yeah...I'm finalizing the forms now. We should get the permit in two, three weeks time. I've booked the talents from 27th to 30th, an extra one day just in case there are problems with the authorities,"

"27th? Are you sure? You'll be on set -"

"It's fine. We have a schedule to keep and we can't afford missing another day,"

"Sorry, mind me asking, but what's going on on 27th?" Jungkook asked, turning to Nickhyun.

"It's her birthday," Minnie forced her voice into a slight whisper, which is completely unnecessary since it managed to fill the room.

Lisa rolled her eyes. "Yes, I'm turning 24, which means I've already celebrated my birthday 23 times although the first few were never in my memory bank, but I think that's good enough for now," She said sarcastically. "You can throw me a party after we're done shooting all campaigns if it makes you feel better,"

"Or after the shoot on the day itself. We can do that...right?" Jungkook's eyes wonder from Nickhyun to Minnie. "You set up the surprise, I'll bring her over," He adds an enthusiastic nod, and Lisa suppressed her laugh at how cute he looked!

"That's uh...it won't be a surprise if we're discussing it here," Minnie shifted slightly in her seat.

"Oh...right...no surprise then! We'll just...work. No celebration at all," The cutie calmed himself awkwardly. "Don't expect anything. We're probably gonna forget about it anyways," Why is he so fucking cute??

"Okay...just update me on Monday. About the permit, I mean," Not at all entertained by the two funny looks between Jungkook and Minnie, Nickhyun got up and grabbed his phone. "Lis, can I see you in my office for a bit?"

The straight face had her worried, so she picked up all her files and walked out behind him.

...

"What's going on between you and your partner?" Nickhyun leaned against his desk the moment she closed the door of his office.

"What do you mean?"

"You know what I mean. I saw the way you two glanced at each other more than a hundred times in that meeting. You hardly pay attention to anything I said - what, are you two really friendly with each other now?"

For some reason, she finds herself annoyed with the intrusive, sarcastic tone. "We understand each other better - I thought that's a good thing? It's what you've been asking for, isn't it? That I need to work well with my partner - why do you sound upset?"

"You know why," He rolled his eyes and began pacing. Oh please...not this!

"No, I don't. I mean, yeah, I got a little distracted but it wasn't cus of him," A little white lie won't hurt! "I just have other things on my mind...work things -"

"A little? I had to repeat my questions like a fool -"

"Nick, there's only 4 of us in that meeting and I don't think anyone in there would think you're a fool," She tried to joke. Unfortunately, her boss didn't find it funny. "Look, I'm sorry -"

"No, you look! You better not get attached to him or this project's gonna flop,"

Lisa gaped, anger started rising up her chest. "Excuse me? How - just how is the extent of relationship with MY partner whom YOU assigned me to determines whether it'll flop or not?? I've been busting my ass days and nights getting shit done despite the fact that you handed this account at the very last minute!"

"Don't talk to me like that, I'm your boss!"

"Then act like a boss and stay out of my personal business!"

"So you're admitting that it's personal? What - are you seeing him? Dating him? Sleeping with him -"

"What the hell is your problem, Nick?!"

"He's the client, Lisa!!" The sudden shout halted her speech. What in the world has gotten into him?? "It's basic ethics - everyone knows you shouldn't fuck a client - it jeopardizes the entire project!"

"I am not fucking him!" She gritted in her teeth. "I'm not seeing him. Or dating him. And I'm certainly not fucking him - that's what you wanna hear? Sue me if it's so fucking wrong for me to look or smile at my partner who - let me remind you again - you assigned and begged me to get along with! Don't ever threaten me with ethics, Nick. You haven't been the most ideal role model here too and you know it -"

"You wouldn't even be here if it wasn't for me -"

Now furious, she takes a step forward - crossing her arms across her chest. "You're damn right I won't! But don't you dare talk about ethics when you've been favoring me, giving me all the big accounts while the other brand managers could be just as capable - using the 'friend' card in front of me while giving the others the impression that we're something more than that. You think I don't hear the gossips around here? You think I don't listen to what they're saying every time you gave me all these massive projects? Have I ever complained about having to handle everything alone in those first two years cus you won't fucking let any guy near me - not even a freaking intern?!"

"It's not that - you know I didn't mean to -"

"You didn't mean to overwork me so I won't have time to date? Really Nick? Look, I've been pretending like what you said on that drunken night didn't happen but it seemed that the longer I let it slide, the more you kept showing that it did. Nick...this thing you imagined between us...it's never gonna happen! Let's face it - between choosing me and the 8 million, you've already made your choice - which already says a lot, don't you think??"

She took a deep breath as if she just ran a mile, calming the heavy beatings of her heart and the loud screaming in her mind. "I love you...so much, as a friend! I respect you as my superior just as I should - even on the hardest days but this...this is not it."

Watching her best friend sighing down to the floor with resigning silence, Lisa can't help but feel a little helpless for the first time in a long time. "I'd like to think that I earned this spot. That I've been doing a damn good job and that's why I'm here. But now I know it's not right. I wouldn't even be here if it wasn't because of your feelings for me...right?"

Nickhyun looks up with fearful eyes. It gave her the answer immediately and she shook her head tiredly. "I think this has gone a little too far. You'll receive my resignation letter once this project is over and you will accept it no matter what,"

"Lis, don't say that -"

"Is there anything else, boss?" She kept her face straight and stance strong. It's been a long time coming, she thought.

...

What a revelation...what a joke! Lisa gulped the remaining golden liquid in her glass, savoring the taste similar to her bitterness and regrets. It's been 3 days since she stormed out of Nickhyun's room, but the flaring anger has yet to subside.

She called for another glass before going back into her shouting mind. It's irritating and infuriating. She should be focusing on the job, taking it as serious as Nickhyun wanted her too but the more she thought of what he said, the more she felt like doing the exact opposite!

Only she didn't, of course. You were lost before he gave you this job, you owe him that. But haven't I been doing that? All I ever did for the past 5 years was hustling for his company - proving that I'm worthy and capable - only to realize that everything I've achieved was because of him!

A drink arrived but it wasn't what she ordered. The clear glass containing clear water is accompanied by the scent and presence that brought her to this bar in the first place. The thought annoyed her even more so Lisa threw her unfocused gaze away.

"I've been wondering where you disappeared to these past couple of days,"

"It's past working hours, Mr Jeon. I'm allowed to have a drink after work," She felt a sigh rather than hearing it. "I sent you all updated documents and Cc'ed you in my emails to the vendors, is there anything else you need urgently?"

"Yes..." Oh fuck - it's after 6 already, do it yourself! I'm really not in the mood for your pretty face - "I need to know why you've been avoiding me,"

Oh. Wait, why is it so hard for me to just get drunk and pass out like normal people?? It'll be easier to avoid this conversation! "I wasn't. I was just busy, that's all,"

Of course, that was a lie. She'd been locking herself in the office and asked her secretary to let no one in. She'd only come out of the cave for the Week-in-Progress meeting with the three as usual, and she'd walked in and out as fast as she could - refusing any friendly greetings to both her boss and this man.

Pshh...sleeping with Jeon Jungkook - how dare he! The only person who's allowed to ask me that is myself and it'll definitely be - why haven't I done it yet?? The guy's been looking hotter and hotter nowadays - glancing at her with smiling, sparkly eyes - what is his problem?!

"You're lying,"

Lisa thought she heard humor in his tone, so she turned to face him. "You don't know me that well to be saying that,"

"I know you enough. And I wanna get to know you more, I'm just not sure why you're taking that privilege away from me now," He's looking at her with eyes resembling a scolded puppy. This plain water won't do!

"How did you find me here?" She diverted away to the barista, hoping that her drink will be on its way.

"Your secretary was quite chatty...all I had to do was pay attention,"

"Ahh...good to know at least someone in our company could finally make you listen," Her drink arrived. Nice timing!

"Only when it's you or about you," Lisa swallowed hard. Nick really had no idea how I managed to hold out for this long! Leaning forward and close, his eyes looked at her with softness and his voice forced her into a bubble where only they exists. It's getting harder and harder for her to resist - especially if she 'accidentally' looked at his lips. "So tell me...why the sudden escape, Lalisa?" The whisper made her skin prickled.

It's the heat from the liquor...it must be or I must be going out of my mind for liking the way he said my name this much! "It's the warmest place I got right now...everywhere else feels cold," He was staring at her lips as she spoke.

"We both know that this is no place for a beautiful lady like yourself. And this drink..." He dragged the glass closer to him and dipped a finger. Lisa watched breathlessly as he puts it in his mouth, relishing the little taste that's equally burning in her guts. "...could lead to some bad decisions. We don't want that do we?"

There's a devilish smile in his eyes...the kind that'll make her knees go week if she were to stand. It's amazing how she can still breathe, "A lady can take care of herself,"

He leaned even closer. "I have no doubt about it. It's the drink I'm worried about. Something's bothering you and I don't quite like it...you're avoiding me and I don't like it,"

Lisa braved herself to look up to the challenge. "The only thing that's been bothering me nowadays is you, Mr Jeon," His eyes widened but he didn't move back. Instead, he tilted his head - waiting to understand. "My boss thinks there's something going on between us, and it might jeopardize my quality of work,"

The humor is back, sparkling in his eyes and curving on his lips. It confused her somehow. "You should prove him wrong then...on the quality of work, I mean...fuck the rest,"

...

Lisa stared out the window, thinking hard about Jeon Jungkook's surprising proposal. Despite the blazing lust fueled by the alcohol in her system last night, she managed to not make a fool out of herself and fall into those sexy stares and honeyed voice. It was an accomplishment, really.

The flirting was obvious. Him winning, was obvious. She understood more about his enigmatic, powerful persona now - that, she's damn sure of! Jeon Jungkook had revealed himself in a more professional manner last night.

He had taken the place of a cousin, who had suddenly grew ill 2 years ago. The father - his uncle - is one of the conglomerate whose name is on Lotte Retail Group's board of directors. That explained the high-handed treatments the man has been receiving, and she should feel even more intimidated when she heard it. But she wasn't.

Behind the serious and meticulous manager is a man whose deep passion goes into arts and culture. He already established himself with 2 art galleries and a creative agency before stepping in the corporate shoes and it didn't seem like he'll ever stop. Which brought her to the question for the umpteenth time since their conversation at the bar: can I really move to South Korea and start again?

...

Lisa peeked at her watch again, nervously waiting for the director to tell her that he got the shots perfectly and to shout 'that's a wrap' to all the crews. But unlike her - and his usual self - Jeon Jungkook seemed unbothered that the sun is almost completely hidden behind the clouds.

There he sat - calm and cool, close beside her - leaning back with an unbuttoned collar, slightly revealing the clean, sculpted chest and grinning his sexy smile whenever she looked over to him. He had to be doing it deliberately! He knew exactly what he's doing to me and he's not even shy about it! I think I've changed too much of him -

"And cut! That's a wrap everyone!" The director finally said over the earpiece, and Lisa sighed in relief. Gathering her folders, she felt a tap on her shoulder.

"What are you doing after this?" Jungkook asked, excitement written all over his face. Cute!

"If you let me, I'm going back home. I need a shower, it's been a long day," She smiled.

"Oh..." He looked disappointed. Why? Are there more work he needs done?? "I need you for something. Can you drop by my suite for a while?"

Lisa squinted her eyes, finding it funny that he seemed a little anxious while asking her that. They've been out here the whole day. There's probably some urgent documents he needed to report back to the management, she thought. So she agreed...because how can she resist those puppy-eyed look?

...

Be strong, Lisa. You can do this! The elevator door opened and she walked out behind him. It's been a while since she'd been in his suite and to be honest, she's terrified of what she may or may not do. What's certain is, both possibilities will definitely play in her mind for a very long time!

"Make yourself at home," He said before disappearing behind the French door.

This is...not at all 'home' - he didn't even bother switching on all the lights for me! The space is still as clean and tidy as how she remembered being in the first time. The only thing that seemed to be of new decorations are the snacks laid out on the kitchen counter...oh, a flower vase!

The doorbell rang and she jumped a little. Opening the door, she found only a light brown, sealed paper bag on the floor. Olivia Von Hale...what is this - did he do some online shopping? Maybe he's stressed. He was acting a little weird yesterday -

"Happy birthday to you~" He started singing, halted her tracks. What...hold on...

Jeon Jungkook came out from his room, pushing the rose-gold cart towards her. On the top laid a whole cake with its sparkly candles, a prettily wrapped box with a card on top, an obvious bouquet filled with lilies and little wildflowers, and a yellow paper bag with ribbons on top.

By the time he finished the birthday song beautifully, she felt her cheeks already warm and blushed. This is so embarrassing - I can't believe he remembered! Even I didn't remember it's my birthday today! "Isn't this a little cheesy?" She managed to say despite the fluttering in her stomach.

He began rubbing the back of his neck nervously. "I'm sorry...I wanted to do a surprise with your colleagues but I didn't think your boss will be too happy if I leave him out. And it's your day, so I didn't want anything to ruin your mood, so..."

She had to laugh because it was cute. He was cute. "It's lovely, thank you! But you really don't have to do all this -"

"Of course not...but I wanted to," Aishh...stop. being. so. sweet! "I feel like I've been working you too hard - well, our companies have been working you too hard - so I wanted you to have your day. I hope you like the cake," He grinned and Lisa scoots forward immediately, realizing that she needed to blow the candles. "May your life gets easier, as how you wished it to be," His genuine smile and those familiar phrase melts her heart.

...

It's probably the first time she'd been treated (almost) like an actual princess on her birthday. Minus the existence of any royal households, she had taken her shower in the luxurious-looking bathroom in his suite. He had given her the complete privacy of freshening herself up in his room and even asked her to lie down on the bed for a while to rest - which she didn't, of course, because that'll be too much!

The Olivia Von Hale was also a gift - a complete set of silk-cashmere tracksuit that she could change into. The soft fabric made her skin feel special for some reason... but I really do need to point this out -

"You know it's weird that you included the um...lingerie in there right? Like...now you know what's underneath my clothes," She cocked an eyebrow and saw the playful smirk on his face. The half-wet hair had grown longer than when she first met him, falling freely and making her feel things.

"I mean...I can imagine, yes. But you shouldn't expect an apology. You need to freshen up and it'll be practically irresponsible for me to ask you to do that without offering something to change into. It's only to make you more comfortable," Smart...he didn't even stutter.

"Thank you, that's very thoughtful of you," She said sarcastically. "Was that why you hardly pay attention to the shoot today? Ckk - Mr Jeon...I think you've changed," She teased to distract herself from that charming smile.

"If changing makes my partner smile, then so be it,"

"I think we can agree that we've gone beyond just 'partners', don't you think?" His smile widened and the nerves in her kicked in. "Friends! I had a friend who bought me undies once,"

Fuck - did I just say 'undies'?? So classy, Lisa - just pat yourself at the back!

"If you say so," His amused smile is not lost on her but she gave up on trying to recover herself. Instead, she took the seat beside him, in front of the cake while he switched off the television.

"Gifts!"

"Shouldn't you cut the cake first?"

"But I love gifts..." She made a pitiful face, startling him a little before he sighed and nodded.

...

"Isn't this a little too much, Jungkook?" She stared at the velvet box again. First he gifted me these clothes, then it's the Leica Q camera, now it's a Bvlgari necklace?? And I'm not even his girlfriend - we haven't even touch each other's hands (properly) yet!

"Why...you don't like it?"

I don't like it? Of course I like it - but that's not the point! "Listen...these are all...extremely amazing gifts...and the thoughts are greatly appreciated but I don't think I deserve this much things -"

"What do you mean? It's only half of the things I initially wanted for you -" I can't look at his face - I can already tell he's wearing his puppy face again and I'll end up being weak again!

"Half? You wanted to get me 6 gifts??"

"Well...yeah...it's your birthday,"

"A cake would've been just fine, Jungkook - a wish even! You didn't have to go all out -"

"Yeah but...I don't know when I can celebrate your birthday again. You haven't said 'yes' to my offer and I'll be leaving in two weeks time," And they're bickering again. His stance was obvious. He won't take these things back, I can feel it!

Okay...okay, take a deep breath...and just say thank you. But I can't - I haven't done anything to get this much! "Why do you this?" Her body and eyes betrayed her, turning and looking directly into his eyes to show the severity of the situation.

"Because I want to,"

"You can't just do whatever you want - it makes me feel like shit!"

"My gifts make you feel like shit?"

"No! Yes! No! It's just...these are super expensive things and they must've cost you a lot. You need to take it back, I really can't except it! Except for these clothes...cus I'm already wearing them," She was seriously calm earlier but seeing him now in his amused smile spiked her annoyance. "Just take them back!"

"Calm down, Lalisa. Tell me why you're upset,"

"Don't talk to me like I'm a child, Jungkook! I'm not a child,"

"You're not. You're just...a really cute doll right now," Cute...doll? He thinks I look cute - She shook her head slightly to not get distracted.

"Is it to buy my interest to work with you? Is that it?"

"No...but does it help?"

"Jungkook!" She laughed aloud. "Why is it so important for you to hire me? I'm sure you can find a better, qualified person to handle your companies - and you don't have to pay for the visa! I really don't need your charity -"

"It's not charity - I just," At this point, the rub at the back of his neck made her aware that it's actually a habit when he's nervous. "I'm used to having you around me. Not as much as I wanted to of course, but I'm not looking forward to the time I won't be seeing you anymore. I need to see you,"

It took Lisa half a second to realize that she really, really wanted to kiss him...and probably a minute or two to convince herself that she shouldn't. Regardless, Jungkook stayed in his seat patiently - waiting for her answer. Or maybe he's leaning closer...it does seemed like space had been removed between us...and air...

"I should really get back home...it's getting late and um...we have a lot of reviewing to do tomorrow,"

"Lalisa,"

The call of her name was soft and she wanted so much to melt in it but she can't. Getting up, she packed her belongings and looked at the untouched cake. Should I pack it? I don't see a box...maybe he'll get it - "Thank you for the um...the birthday song - cake, everything was great,"

"Lalisa,"

Aware that he already stood up, her actions tripled in speed - terrified that he might come close and -

One arm went around her waist from behind, pulling her gently back against him. Lisa stood still as his other hand fixed a strand of her hair - tucking it behind her ears and whispered, "You can listen too, can you?"

She felt dizzy with the sudden heat he stirred in her. She knew she could pull away easily, and he wouldn't stop her. No. Fight it. No way...

"You know you don't have to say 'no' to me for everything now, right? I thought we've established that," His whispers sounded menacingly delicious. "Listen...please,"

"This is wrong, Jungkook..." She felt the first kiss in the side of her neck, teasingly gentle yet tantalizing hot. "We really...shouldn't..."

"This is me speaking," He buried another kiss. "I need to see you...all the time...so much. Come with me...please,"

...

*Warning: Mature Content*
Do not read if you're uncomfortable with a bit of erotic scenes.
Disclaimer: Only read if you're an adult (18+ years) and don't mind reading about a little 'sexy time'. Otherwise just keep scrolling until the next 3 dots (...) lol!

"Fuck ethics!" She hissed and gave up - turning to find his wickedly charming smile ready for her. With feelings and lust bothered, she tilts her face up to meet his inviting lips.

The way he kissed her made her feel precious. Slow enough to give her time to say no if she wanted to, fast enough to sweep her off her feet. When his tongue slipped in, she stopped thinking. His lips were firm on hers - as if he'd been waiting for a long time to do this - and she felt the warmth rising in her body.

He brought his hand up to the back of her head, lacing his fingers into her hair and pulled the band in between it loose swiftly. The 2 months' sexual tension has finally come to this single moment where she finally gets to run her hands through his soft hair, down to the stretch of his neck and across his chest, feeling every single muscles tensing under her touch.

"You have no idea...how long I've been wanting to kiss you," He said as they parted. It's an amazing feeling to know that he's been wanting to do this too but Lisa was too dazed to even say anything. "From the first time you swore at me...it was really hard to not just do this then," He lightly bit on her lower lip, heating up the lust in her even more. "Do you know how beautiful you are?"

She gasped a small laugh when he grabbed her by the hips, lifting her up and carried her through the French door - all the while staring into her eyes, making sure she knew what was about to happen. When he released her onto the mattress, his mouth is on hers again. 

Everything about kissing him drives her wild - the licking, the gentle biting, the tongue stroking in her mouth - everything was better than how she imagined kissing him would be. One hand slid underneath her jumper, and Lisa eagerly helped him took it off - revealing the black-laced brassier he bought for her.

"Good thing I won't have to imagine it. I didn't think I'd be so lucky," It made her giggle a little. "I wish you could see yourself right now, Lalisa...so beautiful," Ahh... those charming, sweet words!

Her pulse is speeding with wild alarm, anticipating what entails. The heat of his mouth grazing the lace on her breast brought her the first moan and she played with his hair - tugging and encouraging him further. She felt his growl when his lips are back on her, his forearms tightening as he reached and held both of her hands spread across - interlacing his fingers in hers.

This is crazy! She knew him but she hardly knew him. It's the first time we'd really touched. Which only made it more delicious. But we're pressing our bodies together like we'd never part. It was scandalously thrilling when she realized that he's hard for her. Oh, the thickness! If this was a mistake - a stupid decision she made...fuck it, I just won't ever see him again!

Lisa turned her face away - breaking the kiss and meant to ask - but before she could find her voice, he moved down to her neck and sucked gently at the sensitive skin. She gasped as his teeth pressed into her nerves with the exact pressure to make her back arch and her hips grinding up. She felt his breath shiver over her wet skin, responding to her own pleasuring assault.

"Come with me," He whispered. At this point, she would've said 'yes'. Yes to anything. Yes to whatever he wanted. But the most that she could reply was the soft shush of her inhaling. "Lalisa...I want you around me...all the time," He pleaded in breaths, still planting tongues and teeth from her neck to her breasts...and moving further down south. "Answer me,"

He stopped just in time as he reached the waistband of her pants. The familiar bossy tone brought her eyes down to him and a smile curved on her lips. "I can't believe you tricked me into saying yes," The wicked smile appeared, making him look ten times hotter than before. "You better not be an asshole to me or I'll burn your galleries down,"

The obvious answer made his hands shake slightly as he kissed her hard again. Whatever this insane chemistry was, it must've drove him wild too - because the kiss had deepened more desperately urgent. He pushed the pants off and the sudden cold of the room prickled her hot skin. Then he stood and took off his shirt, followed by his pants. 

She bets his male ego thrilled at the way she stared on his perfect body, rippling with muscles. The bulge at the center of it all had her gulping air, and she watched in reverie as he confidently strutted towards the bedside table - opening a drawer and tearing a small box, taking out a wrapped rubber.

She can't help her amusement. "You came prepared,"

"I just bought it...a man can only dream to be here with you, Lalisa," She finds herself overwhelmed with hopes that it won't be a lie. He came back and smiled charmingly. "I'd like to point out that I have dreamed about you for so many nights since I came here..." He leaned back forward, on top of her. "I don't want you to think that this is a game to me," He pecked on her lips, quicker than she wanted. "And just a light warning...at some point you're gonna accuse me of being obsessed with you, and you'll be totally right,"

"Are you saying you're tired of arguing with me already?" She smirked.

"I promised to make your life easier, didn't I? I'd like to keep my promises, if you let me,"

Of course, she'd let him do anything he wants so she couldn't disagree. A hand slid between her legs, parting them more as he continued his gaze on her. A gasp escaped when she felt his touch on her folds. Widening his smile, he dove in to kiss her again. She felt the hot fingers slipped into her panties and rubbing the wetness inside. Damn, I needed this!

Two fingers slid in and she was on fire for it. Her fingernails dug into his neck as he held her with the other hand, refusing her need to move and removing it briefly only to take the last piece of clothing off from himself and wrapping the rubber around. She was going to take her lingerie off too but he held her down again, fastening his fingers and driving her crazy.

"I wanna make love to you while you're in this. You can take it off for the next one," She could only think 'bossy' for a short second before finding her hand urging his fingers to go faster. Her moans and voice edged into breathlessness as he complied. She was so close to ecstasy that her body had took over. When she finally saw stars, Lisa cried out his name and threw her head back. 

Opening her eyes to the light and his beautiful face, she smiled sheepishly. "You're so beautiful," He kissed her once...then twice. Her hands began finding the length when he deepened the third. She felt his groan in her mouth when she wrapped it around her hands delicately, rubbing it across her folds. 

When he pressed into her tightness, she felt nearly dizzy with relief and pleasure. Jungkook hissed when he reached as deep as he could get, and the satisfaction immediately turned into clawing hunger. 

"Fuck - you feel so good," With every withdrawals and thrusts, he focused exquisitely on her face. They were glorious moments for her - feeling so beautiful and needed. He was moving fast and hard along her slick flesh as he whispered compliments, and he moved slower when he leaned down to kiss her deep. It was too good and he was too hot. Before long, Lisa found herself at the brink again - ready to explode. 

She breathed his name then and threw her head back. Please... "Come for me, baby," He drove himself into her, over and over - sucking on the skin of her neck as they reached their painful wave of pleasure. As her name escaped his mouth, she cried out - hips jerking against and around his shaft. He lets her ride every single spasm as it shook through her body before he slid off and collapsed beside her.

What. the. fuck. was. that?! With her cheeks and body flushed pink, Lisa stared weakly onto the beige ceiling high above her. It was wrong - given the timing - but she can't help to recall if sex was ever this good before. Not that she had that much experience to begin with, but with the little, it was definitely far incomparable! 

After catching their breaths, his arm snaked across her stomach and she turned to her side, looking into Jungkook's dazed eyes. So fucking sexy! "When you're ready, let's get you cleaned up," The lusty eyes smiled and she knew exactly what he meant. His fingers ran along the strap of her brassier before whispering, "You can take it off. Then we'll have cake,"

...

Jungkook stood at the very front of the 'Arrival' entrance, stretching his neck around to find the face he's been missing a whole damn lot for the past 3 months. Surely, he didn't have to be so anxiously focused, but he still is. Incheon Airport on a Tuesday was never crowded, and he could probably count the heads that are waiting along for the passengers.

It had been a marked day in red and bold, waiting for her to complete her notice with the company and be here with him. He had offered to pay for the 2-months serve, but she was absolutely against it. It was a hard battle for him to fight as it might annoy and drive her away, so he didn't. He just had to trust that she won't change her mind to be here with him.

Lalisa...her name is as pretty as the person he's in love with - he can confidently say it now. The distance and longing had only strengthened his feelings for her and it took him many sleepless nights wishing that he was back there in Thailand - arguing and kissing and more arguing and more kissing the woman that had struck his heart with so much sass, determination and beauty.

Oh, she was so beautiful and sexy to end and start the day with! Even more when she's angry at him, strangely making him wanting to worship the ground she walked on! And even more when she had no idea of all the effects she had on him. And even more when she's so focused on forcing away the feelings she had for him in all those times working together. He could see the sparks in her eyes every time she stared at him. The wanting...needing...just the same as how much I wanted her.

She was a force to be reckoned with. Smart and cunning...always challenging him. He never met any woman that was as feisty and strong-minded as her. Aishh...I missed her smart-mouth! It was all in good times, he recalled what she had said a month ago. Their very patience brought him here today and her - hopefully, if she wasn't lying to me about boarding the plane! - through the arrival gate in just about...now.

The doll of his life walked out with uncertainty in her eyes, scanning around at the sides before resting them to the center that was him. She's even more beautiful now than in all those video calls and shared pictures! With a shy smile slowly curving up on her lips, she pushed the heavy-looking trolley towards him...slow walks at first, cute little hops the next. 

Jungkook felt the heavy beatings of his yearning heart as she gets closer - unsure of how he could let the craving out. As if sensing his confused state-of-mind, Lisa stopped the trolley aside and scrunch her cute nose - walking with large and determined steps before leaping herself onto him. He can't help but laugh as she wrapped her long legs and lean arms around him.

"Miss me?" She said with a cheeky smile and his heart melts. It's as if nothing else existed right this second!

"So much, baby," He looked up to her eyes with adoration - tucking the loose strands of hair behind her ears and cupping her face, before planting a deep kiss onto those plump lips he missed since he got back home. Can you be 'homesick' for a person cus that's exactly how it felt?

"People are staring," She broke it off and laughed.

"They should be. I'm the luckiest man in here, they should all be jealous," He smirked back.

"Cocky...just as how I remembered," She tightened the hold on him and kissed him again.

The feel of her, now in his arms, is everything. In all his past relationships, never had he felt so sure...so adamant in making his girl sublimely happy before, aside from this one. It started 6 months ago, and now it's beginning again. He might not be able to tell where this leads...but I'll be damned if I didn't try my hardest to keep her around forever!

"I sleep on the left side of the bed by the way," She whispered when she lets herself down and away from him. Jungkook sighed a laugh - remembering his question that was left unanswered a day ago. 

"Mm...this is tricky. You should've told me this earlier. I sleep on the left too," As he took her trolley, she wrapped an arm across his.

"If I can move across countries, you can switch your bed side," She answered a matter-of-factly.

He held in the need to scoop her up and carry her back home right this instance. The hell with her luggage - I'll get her new clothes! "Or we can both sleep on the left. I don't mind not having the space now, really,"

She laughed her melodic laugh, sounding as beautifully happy as he hoped her to be.

...

THE END. 

P/S: Wait for my announcement and vote for want you around. in the comment section later if you want a full story!