--

By the time the clock struck 2 pm, Jungkook found himself wrapping up the staff meeting, with Katlyn by his side. The meeting room had started feeling like a cage, and his stomach growled incessantly, reminding him that he had only sipped a cup of coffee at 6:30 am, and his appetite was now on full alert.

His thoughts drifted to the newbies - New Jeans - a fresh K-pop group that had recently debuted under his company's label. Jungkook felt an urge to personally meet them, provide some encouragement, and offer recognition for their hard work. The meeting with the new talents was on his agenda, and despite his hunger, he knew the importance of showing support to the upcoming artists.

Jungkook arrived at the Marble Bistro, the setting for his lunch meeting with New Jeans. As he stepped inside, he spotted the members already seated, eagerly waiting for him. Greeting him with utmost respect, they promptly rose from their seats and offered a polite bow. Returning the gesture, Jungkook graciously took his place in front of them.

Seated across from him were five members of New Jeans, their youthful energy evident in their eager expressions and postures. Jungkook couldn't help but smile at their enthusiasm, feeling a sense of nostalgia remembering his own debut days.

"Annyeonghaseyo," they all greeted Jungkook, and he returned the greeting with a warm smile.

Each member introduced themselves, and Jungkook listened attentively. Impressed, he commented, "You all seem quite young. May I ask about your ages?"

The group's leader, Min Hee-jin, responded, "I'm 19 years old, Danielle is 18, Hanni and I are both 19, Haerin is 17, and our youngest, Hyein, is 15."

Jungkook nodded in acknowledgement. They were all quite young, especially Heyin at just 15 years old. However, this didn't surprise Jungkook, considering he had started his own K-pop career at the age of 14.

Jungkook smiled warmly at the young members, feeling a sense of nostalgia as he remembered his own debut days. He leaned forward, "Starting in the industry at such a young age is a fantastic opportunity. It can be challenging, but remember, each moment, each performance, and each practice counts. It's a beautiful journey, and you'll learn a lot as you go along."

Min Hee-jin nodded earnestly, her eyes bright with enthusiasm, "We've admired your journey, Sunbae-nim. You're an inspiration to us all."

Jungkook chuckled lightly, "Oh, please, call me Jungkook. No need for formalities. I am just a little older than you" He continued, "I've seen your debut performance, and you all have great potential. Stay focused, work hard, and most importantly, stay true to yourselves. It's easy to get lost in this industry, but your authenticity will set you apart."

All of them nodded, stars of hope and dreams glistening in their eyes. Jungkook spoke with utmost sincerity, "Listen, as you start your careers, it can be a bit overwhelming, particularly for your bodies, given the physical demands. There might be pressure to maintain a 'perfect' physique—tiny waists, abs, and such. But here's the thing, it doesn't matter. Not to the point of starving yourselves or following extreme diets. Eat healthily, and avoid excessive junk food and fats, but don't deprive yourselves. Having a small tummy or being a bit curvy doesn't diminish your efforts or talent. What counts is the dedication you put into your performances and music."

He looked at each of them, emphasizing the importance of self-care and self-acceptance in an industry where appearance often takes precedence over everything else. He shared some personal experiences and encouraged them to prioritize their well-being over societal standards of 'perfection.' The members listened intently, absorbing his advice like sponges, grateful for the guidance from a seasoned idol who understood the trials and tribulations of the industry.

After finishing their lunch, as they were bidding their goodbyes, Jungkook made sure to convey a heartfelt assurance, "Guys, you're more than just colleagues now, you're my friends. So, whenever you need anything, absolutely anything, just give me a call. You've got my number now. Don't hesitate to reach out. There are times in life when things happen, and you need someone to talk to, but you can't open up to your parents, friends, or even the company. Call me then. I'll be there for you. I had someone like that when I was a young idol like you guys, and that person's support meant everything to me. I wouldn't be here without them."

Curiously, Hyein, the youngest, asked, "Who was that person? If it's okay to ask."

Jungkook chuckled warmly, gesturing towards Katlyn, "It's her—Katlyn, my manager and my best friend. She's always been my rock, guiding and supporting me whenever I needed help. So, don't hesitate to reach out, okay?"

With a genuine smile, he reassured the newcomers, knowing the importance of having someone to rely on during the highs and lows of an idol's life. 

After bidding their goodbyes, Jungkook and Katlyn made their way back to the car. As they settled in, Jungkook reclined his seat, feeling the exhaustion from the busy day settling in. He glanced at the clock on the dashboard—it was nearly an hour before his scheduled meeting. He let out a long sigh, leaning back in the seat, closing his eyes, and hoping to catch a brief nap.

The car was parked in a shaded area, the faint sounds of passing traffic outside becoming a distant hum. Jungkook adjusted his seat for maximum comfort, sinking into the plush upholstery. He tried to shut out the flurry of thoughts that often circled his mind, focusing on the rhythmic sounds of his breaths, willing himself into a moment of tranquillity.

The soft murmurs of people walking by occasionally reached his ears, but they were distant and unintrusive. Jungkook took a few deep breaths, feeling the fatigue from the hectic schedule of the morning seep away slowly. He felt the weariness in his muscles, a reminder of the long hours he often dedicated to his career.

The car became a cocoon of silence, and Jungkook relished in the peaceful ambience, letting himself drift into a light doze. His mind wandered into a realm where the pressures of the idol life were distant, replaced by a fleeting dreamlike haze. The gentle sway of the car lulled him further into a state of relaxation, providing a brief respite from the demands of his busy schedule.

--

As Jungkook groggily woke up from his short nap in the car, Katlyn gently shook his shoulder, reminding him of their impending meeting. Rubbing his eyes, he glanced at the time on his phone and realized they were running a bit behind schedule. They swiftly made their way into the Hybe building, navigating through the halls to the meeting room.

Upon entering, Jungkook noticed the room was abuzz with activity. He took his seat at the head of the table, flanked by his assistant managers, producers, and other key personnel involved in the production of his upcoming album. The room's atmosphere crackled with creative energy, and Jungkook could feel the anticipation in the air.

Jungkook's main producer leaned in, his eyes filled with anticipation, fixated on the young artist. "Jungkook, how is the progress of your album going? Are we on track? Is everything according to schedule?"

Jungkook affirmed, "Yes, everything is proceeding as planned. The final editing phase will be completed by next week, and then we're set to release the album. The first teaser will drop at midnight today."

"Excellent," the CEO responded.

"the first single will drop on 23rd October. Then, the midnight pair will be released in the last week of November. The next song will be released about a month after that and so on," Katlyn assured.

This timeline seemed to satisfy everyone present, ensuring a strategic release schedule for the album's songs to maintain momentum and audience engagement.

The meeting revolved around the intricate details of the album's release schedule and the necessary arrangements for shooting, editing, and releasing the album. They delved into discussions about publicity strategies, concert arrangements, and plans for the upcoming tour. After a comprehensive discussion spanning an hour and a half, they concluded their meeting, having covered every aspect of the album's launch and subsequent promotional activities.