The morning sun spilled golden light across the bustling streets of Seoul, casting a warm glow over the city that pulsed with energy. Cars honked, and people rushed about, weaving through the crowd like threads in a grand tapestry. Yet, in the heart of this vibrant metropolis, hidden behind the imposing glass facade of the Kim Corporation, lived a boy untouched by its harsh realities.
Kim Taehyung sat in the spacious breakfast room of the kim mansion, the air filled with the tantalizing aroma of his strawberry milkshake and pancake. His heart fluttered with excitement as he gazed out the large window overlooking the sprawling gardens. A gentle breeze ruffled the curtains, and he felt as if the world outside was calling to him, begging him to join its dance.
“Taehyung, you need to eat something!” came the voice of his mother, Mrs. Kim, as she bustled around the kitchen. Her delicate hands moved with practiced grace, plating a beautiful array of food. “You can’t go to your meeting on an empty stomach.”
Taehyung turned away from the window, a smile lighting up his face. “I’m coming, Mom! Just enjoying the view!” His voice was cheerful, brightening the room as he hopped off the chair and made his way to the table.
As he sat down, the grand dining room enveloped him in a sense of comfort and security. The walls were adorned with family portraits, each telling the story of the Kims’ legacy. Taehyung felt a swell of pride as he looked at his parents, the pillars of their family, hard at work to uphold their reputation in society. He admired their dedication, completely unaware of the weight of expectations resting on his shoulders.
“Good morning, little brother,” came a familiar voice, smooth and confident. Yoongi, Taehyung’s older brother, strolled into the room, his expression a mix of amusement and affection. As the co-CEO of Kim Corporation, Yoongi often bore the heavy mantle of responsibility, yet he never let it show around Taehyung.
“Morning, hyung!” Taehyung beamed, his eyes sparkling with admiration for his brother. “Did you sleep well?”
“Like a rock, as always.” Yoongi smirked, pouring himself a cup of coffee before sitting across from Taehyung. “You should try it sometime. You’ll feel more rested for your important meetings.” He teased, raising an eyebrow.
Taehyung’s laughter filled the room, light and airy. “I’m not as busy as you, remember? My meetings are all about charity events and art shows.”
“Which are important in their own right,” Mrs. Kim chimed in, placing a plate of pastries in front of Taehyung. “You’re learning to be a part of this family business, sweetheart. Every role matters.”
Taehyung nodded, but a flicker of uncertainty crossed his face. He had always seen himself as the gentle heart of the family, the one who brought warmth and kindness to the cold, cutthroat world of business. But in his heart, he worried he would never truly fit into the world his parents and Yoongi navigated so effortlessly.
“Mom, do you think I’m doing a good job?” Taehyung asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
“Of course, you are!” His mother exclaimed, cupping his face in her hands. “You bring joy wherever you go. You have a gift for connecting with people, Taehyung. Never doubt that.”
Her words washed over him like a soothing balm, but deep down, Taehyung couldn’t shake the nagging feeling that he was just a naive boy playing dress-up in a world far more complex than he could ever comprehend.
As breakfast continued, they shared light banter, the warmth of family enveloping them. Taehyung watched his mother and brother interact with fondness, his heart swelling with love for them. He felt safe here, in this bubble of laughter and love, a stark contrast to the realities that lurked beyond their mansion’s walls.
Once breakfast was finished, Mr. Kim his expression suddenly serious. “Taehyung, remember to stay focused during your meeting today. This partnership with the Jeon family is crucial for our company.”
“I know,Dad. I’ll do my best!” Taehyung replied, determination creeping into his voice. He wanted to prove himself, to show his family that he could contribute in his own way.
“Good. And if you need anything, don’t hesitate to call me,” Yoongi added, his demeanor shifting from playful to protective. “I’ll be in the office if you need me.”
Taehyung nodded, appreciating the support from his older brother. “Thanks, hyung. I will.”
After the dishes were cleared and the table set for the next meal, Taehyung made his way upstairs to get ready. He took a moment to gaze at himself in the mirror, smoothing his hair back and adjusting his collar. Today was important, and he wanted to look his best. He slipped into a crisp white dress shirt and tailored slacks, the fabric hugging his slender frame perfectly. He felt polished, yet somehow still like the boy he had always been.
As he descended the stairs, a soft melody played from the grand piano in the corner of the living room. Taehyung paused, captivated by the sound. His fingers twitched, longing to join in, to play the notes that resonated in his heart. Music had always been his escape, a refuge from the expectations that sometimes felt suffocating.
“Taehyung, are you coming?” Yoongi’s voice pulled him from his reverie, and he quickly made his way to the front door.
“Sorry, just lost in thought!” Taehyung laughed, brushing off the fleeting sadness.
“Just remember, you can’t afford to get lost today,” Yoongi warned playfully, his expression softening. “You’ll be great, little brother.”
“Thanks, hyung,” Taehyung replied, a rush of gratitude filling him. “I hope so.”
The car ride to the office was filled with easy conversation, the kind that only siblings could share. Taehyung watched the city pass by, its skyscrapers towering over him like giants. He was blissfully unaware of the darker undercurrents that ran through Seoul—the shadows lurking in alleyways and the whispers of the mafia that twisted like smoke through the air.
Arriving at the Kim Corporation, Taehyung stepped out of the car, his heart racing with anticipation. The building loomed ahead, a testament to his family’s success. He followed Yoongi through the bustling lobby, the sounds of phones ringing and people talking creating a lively backdrop. Yet, beneath the surface, Taehyung felt a simmering tension he couldn’t quite place.
“Are you ready?” Yoongi asked, his tone serious as they approached the conference room.
“Yeah, I think so,” Taehyung replied, though his voice wavered slightly.
As they entered the conference room, Taehyung’s eyes landed on the sleek table surrounded by important-looking people. The air felt charged, and he could sense the weight of the negotiations about to unfold.
“Remember, Taehyung, you’re representing the Kim family,” Yoongi whispered, leaning closer. “Stay confident.”
Taking a deep breath, Taehyung nodded. He positioned himself at the table, trying to mask his nervousness with a bright smile. As the meeting commenced, he listened intently, his heart pounding as discussions of contracts and partnerships swirled around him.
“Mr. Kim, what do you think about this proposal?” one of the executives asked, turning toward Taehyung.
Surprised, Taehyung blinked, realizing everyone’s eyes were on him. “Um… I think it’s a good idea. Collaborating with the Jeon family could really strengthen our position in the market,” he said, his voice steady despite the butterflies in his stomach.
“Very insightful, Taehyung,” Yoongi praised, a glimmer of pride in his eyes.
The meeting continued, and as the discussions progressed, Taehyung felt a spark of excitement. He was contributing, making his mark in a world that felt intimidating yet exhilarating. Yet, deep down, a small part of him was still plagued by doubt.
Once the meeting concluded, Taehyung stood up, feeling lighter. “Thanks for the opportunity, everyone,” he said, flashing a bright smile. “I’m looking forward to working with you all.”
As he left the conference room, Taehyung found himself engulfed in a whirlwind of emotions. He was naive, sheltered, but also hopeful. Hopeful that perhaps he could carve out a place for himself in the family business, a place where his kindness could make a difference.
“Great job in there, Tae!” Yoongi exclaimed as they walked down the hall together.
“ I didn’t think I’d manage,” Taehyung admitted, relief flooding him.
“You did better than expected,” Yoongi said with a teasing grin. “Maybe you should consider a career in corporate negotiations.”
Taehyung laughed, but deep inside, he wondered if he could ever truly fit into that world. His dreams were simple: to create, to inspire, and to live in a world filled with kindness.
As they exited the building, the sunlight enveloped them, and Taehyung felt a surge of energy. He was determined to make a difference, to find a way to bridge the gap between the harsh realities of business and the kindness he carried in his heart.
But little did he know that the shadows of the city were waiting, watching, ready to pull him into a world that would challenge everything he believed in.
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