Chapter Text
Waltzing inside the office the next day, both Jonghyeon and Aaron had absolutely no reason to believe that things could possibly go anywhere but up for them.
The traffic was smooth, the buses came on time, there was a nice breeze in the air that made it feel like it wasn't a day where 100% of all Monday Blues cases are diagnosed.
And most of all, they had a plan. Whether the interview went right or left, it will be done and Jonghyeon could finally kiss this diabolical Aircraft situation goodbye.
But promptly after arriving at the office at their usual time of 7:30am, it didn't take long before the incoming anxiety arrived as well, almost washing away the newfound optimism from before.
They were supposed to dial in on the mystery man precisely around 9AM, but just that fact alone only made Jonghyeon's nerves all the more raddled, as it only allowed him more time to ruminate on how their new plan could possibly go left.
Jonghyeon let out a small sigh, now slightly worried and truly hoping that things would happen for the best so that he can finally end this weird chapter in his career and focus on the things that already called for his attention before this Aircraft Man in Black situation even existed!
It was now the 2nd week of October.
The end of the year awards were only two months away. And all Jonghyeon could ask for was a way to turn back the hands of time to where that was the only thing that took over his mind.
It still did but there was no denying that this Aircraft story simply had a mind of its own, required way more introspection and had way more variables to simply just let it go. But despite the fact that the awards was something that he could only dream of, it was all because of this aircraft debacle why he'd do everything in his power to avoid Mr. Soogeun as much as possible.
At least until the story was finished and wrapped into a tight bow for the public, then he'd actually have the courage to face his editor.
The whole thing was just weird though, because it's not like Mr. Soogeun was the strict type. He wasn't like the big wigs who visited the editorial section on a random Wednesday evening once in a full blue moon. In fact, one would consider him as one of the more open-minded, always seeking new, fresh and unique perspectives from his writers.
Soogeun was always so lenient, that Jonghyeon wondered if the man's style ever meshed well with the big wigs. Did they ever reprimand him???? Obviously not, because the big wigs never showed contempt for the editorial section of the SK-Daily.
So the man was doing something right, which obviously meant that Jonghyeon was doing something right on his part.
It certainly proved that the SK-Daily was a well oiled machine that held its own.
And Jonghyeon's never been more satisfied to be a part of it. During Jonghyeon's first year of working for the SK-Daily, he always wondered what made Soogeun take a liking to him, he almost found i unbelievable how Mr. Soogeun described Jonghyeon's mind as "A breath of fresh air."
Because as far as Jonghyeon knew, they were only the average run of the mill stories right??? Surely the nation probably wouldn't be too impressed to read another perspective of the same development that some other news outlet reported on.
But whether Jonghyeon was writing up something that was spawned at 3:30AM on a random weekend night or something that he saw on his way from work, Jonghyeon always found that fate truly worked in his favor when it came to him working with Mr. Soogeun. The guy was one of the few that actually understood him and his perspectives, always validating what he had to say.
He actually gets him, his corrections and feedback were always of reason but Jonghyeon always felt like a true journalist every time he left his office. Hence why it made Jonghyeon so perturbed to hear from his editor that he "Needed something different."
Because….what was he doing so wrong????
Anyways, even an open-minded guy like Mr. Soogeun would certainly question he and his partner's agenda with this whole Aircraft situation if they did not return with something from their interviewee.
It's not the first time that he's interviewed someone that was much different from himself. So why was that Mr. M character any different?
All he knows is that the weirdo despite literally bumping into him only 2 days ago managed to bring out the absolute worst in him. And he hated it because the guy sure as hell didn't bring out the best.
Jonghyeon scoffed. The absolute nerve of that bastard.
But no matter what that man brought out of him, they had a story to pursue at the end of the day. And if that meant simply putting aside his personal bias towards this self proclaimed chaebol and faking it to make it, then so be it.
The story will happen and that was all that mattered to Jonghyeon at this point.
Anyways, the day started like so.
Despite being the epicenter of news that could potentially shake the nation, the editorial section during the early morning hours of the day was unbelievably quiet. It was the calm before the controlled chaos that Jonghyeon always found himself sucked into. And nothing was better than allowing his mind to deflate after coming down from the adrenaline fueled hustle and bustle of his morning commute.
They continued through the office.
The quiet chatter of the super early hawks was heard conversing from somewhere in the office, the distant lone sound of a keyboard tapping away, the scent of someone's breakfast wafted against Jonghyeon's nose as they passed the break room, and a strong scent of freshly brewed coffee bloomed as they passed Mr. Soogeun's office….
Jonghyeon suddenly stopped in his tracks, eyes widening and causing Aaron to abruptly knock into him.
"Dude, what's the deal??????" asked Aaron.
Jonghyeon turned to Aaron, "Hyung, look me in the eyes and tell me what you smell right now….." he whispered.
Taking a quick whiff of the air around them, Aaron responded "Hmm, smells like you're trying to win back your old friend."
Jonghyeon smacked his teeth, "Aish hyung! First impressions matter but that's not the point right now." he said, gesturing to the door that they now stood in front of.
After a couple more moments of confusion, Aaron sniffed the air again before furrowing his brows.
"Smells like coffee…..What's he doing here so early?" he whispered, "The man doesn't roll in until 10!"
"Exactly!" responded Jonghyeon before excitingly pressing his ear to the door.
"And you're happy about that!?" asked Aaron as if Jonghyeon wasn't the same guy who was gonna pass out at the slightest mention of his editor.
Jonghyeon turned back to his friend with a deadpanned expression, "Of course not!"
And if it wasn't for that lunatic complicating things for he and his partner then Jonghyeon wouldn't feel like he was on the run in a Looney toons episode.
Matter of fact, that was the perfect way to describe the previous series of events over the past couple of days. Looney.
"Listen hyung, the guy didn't have time to stop pass the cafe for his dark roast…."
Aaron shrugged, "Neither did we! Doesn't make our Monday all that interesting either!"
"Hyung, get with the program here! There's only one reason why Mr. Soogeun would have an urgent need to get to his office ASAP….." said Jonghyeon drawing an imaginary heart in the air with his fingers.
Aaron widened his eyes, "A scandal!?"
"Exactly!!!"
Without thinking any further, Jonghyeon turned to press his ear against the door once more and trying his best to figure out the celeb of the hour who got caught dating lord knows who.
As much as celeb dating scandals seemed to be a dime a dozen in that office and as much as it made Jonghyeon feel like he was back in high school, trying to figure out the details about the whole thing as his editor conversed with the company to verify the information was the juiciest part about the whole thing.
Because how else could he go about his day if he hasn't figured out who A, B, C or any other parties involved was doing lord knows what with who!???
After joining his side, Aaron whispered "I still don't see how we need to become spies for this…."
"Aish hyung, that's our job. We're just spies with a suit & tie!"
Aaron shrugged, "Whatever you say Sherlock. Let's just hope that finding out whoever was making out with who was worth skipping breakfast for…."
They kept listening at the door when all of a sudden and without warning, someone from behind him gave a few knocks at the door completely startling the two journalists.
Jonghyeon swiveled around only to see the one and only Assistant editor Cha Eunwoo! Only a couple of inches from his face, the guy cornered him and Jonghyeon at that moment couldn't control his eyes as they briefly glanced at the man's lips. And Jonghyeon never wanted to slap himself silly for giving himself away like a fool, all in front of his colleague no less!
Finally pulling himself together, he stumbled "Eunwoo….H-Hi!"
He plastered on a smile though he could say that it was nothing short of crooked in the goofiest of ways.
With pursed lips, the man smiled back, acknowledging Jonghyeon's greeting by giving a nod and maintaining his professionalism unlike himself who suddenly felt like a human radiator.
Jonghyeon cleared his throat, pointing back to the door behind him, "Would you like me to relay your message to Mr. Soogeun-"
"I just received an email. It's urgent," he said cutting Jonghyeon off.
Jonghyeon's smile dropped.
But the guy ended with the same pursed lipped smile which somehow made Jonghyeon suddenly feel overheated out of embarrassment in the worst possible way.
This guy was not impressed even if they were the last two people that existed on this planet.
Without hesitation, Jonghyeon cleared his throat, promptly sending his apologies and finally moving to the side for the guy who probably wouldn't touch him with a ten foot pole if he was paid 50 million won.
Now sensing the incoming awkwardness, Jonghyeon suddenly nudged at Aaron's shoulder, signalling his overwhelming desire to flee the scene. Not only to escape the absolute embarrassment that he just had to endure but also to escape before Mr. Soogeun opened that door! And after a similar look from his friend, much to Jonghyeon's relief, they both finally scurried off to their desks.
Approaching their desks, it didn't take long to figure out what the early hawks were going on about. Only this time, they now knew who A and B was. What Jonghyeon didn't expect though was the little discussion that spawned from this whole ordeal.
"Jonghyeon ah, If you were an idol, wouldn't it be better to just date inside the same company?" Asked Yoojung.
Jonghyeon stuttered, clearly taken aback at the unexpected question, having just escaped the most awkward encounter with his crush who roamed within the same close quarters as him.
So close that any news about them hitting it off would likely spread around the editorial section like wildfire.
But before Jonghyeon could even school his younger colleague about the potential thrill of it all and whether she was willing to deal with the consequential dangers that came with it, she spoke first
"It just makes things easier! Right!?"
It was at that moment when he saw Eunwoo, pass by. He watched as the guy finally made his way out of the office, not even going as far as looking Jonghyeon's way.
Really???? Would that really be easier to date within the same company??????
Hell no. Because If Eunwoo for some odd reason would finally give Jonghyeon his time only to dump him on the spot, how would he EVER be able to step back inside the office after a tragedy like that?
He'd have to retire early!
Before Jonghyeon could even get a word out, another colleague chimed in.
"I guess you have a point but gosh!" Said little miss Somi "I'd rather date someone from a rival company before I'd ever put myself in a line of fire of dating a colleague under the same roof. You see the same people everyday, It's almost like incest!!"
There was a gasp from the other few colleagues, including himself because what!?
But maybe she had a point. Because nothing was more thrilling than suddenly encountering someone who could potentially be in the same league as Eunwoo.
Like ….
Jonghyeon squeezed his eyes shut. Because no. Ew!!! The guy was one of the unrealistically handsome men that he's seen in his life. And he's not saying that lightly
Because even with the black eye, Jonghyeon still couldn't control his racing heart the moment he took off his goggles during that interview.
So yes, it was thrilling. But at what cost? Finding that man handsome was a unsurprisingly catch-22 because he was weird as hell and Jonghyeon was just sick for still having thoughts about the guy!
His colleagues continued on.
"Oh! Not you talking down one sin before going on to commit another!"
There were a few cackles that followed the wild statement.
Jonghyeon chuckled, looking over at his friend for his reaction, but his smile wavered when he saw the guy's head bowed, red ears giving away how utterly embarrassed he was.
Oh gosh….how could Jonghyeon forget???? The guy was guilty as hell for committing the same sin that they spoke of!
Shall they ever find out he was dating his competitor, Choi Mingi of 7-News Korea, they'd never let him live it down.
After a couple more minutes of tuning into the chitchat regarding the fateful couple and how they were young and dumb for letting their fling slip through the cracks, Jonghyeon thought it was a good time to finally start up his computer and finally pay his mind to the things that actually mattered at that moment. Such as the few couple of stories that was jotted down in his notes during the past couple of days.
However, nothing was done before he shot a quick text to his friend.
Jonghyeon: Lunch @ Charlotte's????? Let's get out of here 😅
Aaron: I can't wait 😵💫😭
Jonghyeon let out a sigh of relief exchanging a glance with his friend before getting into his work flow of the day before the big phone call.
Lunch time rolled around but their day only went from weird to worse.
On one hand, they never had a chance of running into Mr. Soogeun, for he already had enough on his plate that morning. So at least that was the one good silver lining in the sea of weird events.
But much to Jonghyeon's dismay, that was the only good thing that he could remember happening.
Because from the moment that they could not get in contact from the mysterious man, Jonghyeon tried his best to keep up the newfound optimism and to not think anything could get worse than that.
But after the 3rd call In a row and no response to the text message that was sent out, Jonghyeon just knew that this was not going to be a good day.
Now sitting in the cafe, both men sulked. Pondering within the devastating silence of the cafe of what just happened and why the man had suddenly gone A-wall. Wondering if it was something on their part, if they were perhaps too persistent, too pushy, too pressed to the point where they possibly ran the man off and wondered how and where they should go on from here.
Just when Jonghyeon was about to open his mouth to really call it quits and just say fuck it to this whole thing, Aaron opened his mouth first.
"I just don't get it….the guy reached out to me first…..he was more persistent than us!"
Jonghyeon sighed, "What can you expect from a chaebol hyung…..the guy is just probably busy."
"But if he was busy he'd at least give some sort of signal for us to back off. We haven't received jackshit!"
Jonghyeon sighed again, suddenly losing his appetite and wishing that Aaron never would have opened up the conversation to ponder on reasons why the man suddenly ghosted them. Because it was clear that Jonghyeon was just over it. But at the same time, he can totally understand why his friend just couldn't let go of the fact the man had suddenly gone silent. It almost made Jonghyeon want to file a missing person's report on the man because what the hell????? He's gone completely MIA.
But worst of all, no amount of food that he stuffed into his mouth in that moment couldn't wash away the guilt that dwelled deep within his gut. The pathetic fact that this was all his fault.
However, one couldn't refute the fact that this was an extremely complicated situation that involved him as well. The guy had just as much responsibility to pick up his damn phone as much as Jonghyeon had to fix this mess that he created from the get.
He was stupid.
Jonghyeon reached over, placing a hand on his friend's shoulder in an attempt to soothe his sulking friend. Because he could only imagine that he was likely blaming himself for the whole shit when he was the least at fault in this whole ordeal.
"Don't worry hyung, we'll try again." he said rubbing at his shoulder. His friend gave a rather unsure smile, placing his hand atop Jonghyeon's. But Jonghyeon smiled back reassuringly before speaking
"Just eat, you already skipped breakfast. The least you can do is take a bite…We don't need you fainting out on the streets."
Aaron nodded in a agreement, "You do have a point, I already feel lightheaded just thinking about it…"
"So do I…." commented Jonghyeon before taking another bite of his meal.
There was temporary air of relief between the two as they enjoyed their meals. The silence between them went on all until he saw his friend from the side of his eye suddenly perk up.
"Mingi!?" he called out.
Jonghyeon who almost choked on his drink suddenly whipped his head over, eyes laying on a stunned Mingi who was currently making his way out of the door.
"Aaron! Jonghyeon….what are you doing here!?"
Jonghyeon furrowed his brows in confusion but right before he opened his mouth to tell him the fuck off about how he must have bumped his head to have forgotten their most frequented hangout spot since they were teens, Aaron spoke first.
"Lunch! come on!" said Aaron beckoning him over.
But something wasn't right. Jonghyeon could just feel it in his bones that something was just off! it was the way that he was apprehensive to even step over their way despite him being head over heals for Aaron. It was how he repeatedly glanced over at Jonghyeon in an attempt to gauge his reaction bit most of all, it was the fact that the man was simply stunned, as if he got caught snooping around in his mother's purse.
He was up to something and Jonghyeon suddenly hoped that his lunch hour was frozen in place, because he had all the time in the world to figure out what this guy was up to.
However, it did not take long for fate to deliver his wishes because right as Mingi stepped forward, there was a wildly familiar giggle that echoed from the stairs leading up to the upper level of the cafe. And right before his mind could even render what was happening, the situation had finally revealed its self.
Stepping right down the stairs was none other than Joo Kyulkyung.
Oh but that wasn't the worse part. That wasn't even the CENTER of why this situation was fucked because right by her side and laughing along with her was none other than Mr. M himself.
Well well well. What a way to figure out why they were ghosted and why this whole day was destined to turn to shit from the moment they placed that first phone call.
What a load of shit!!
Finally stepping off the last stair, they both gasped when they landed faced to face with Jonghyeon and Aaron themselves, looking all the more guilty than Choi Mingi the chameleon who had his eyes squeezed closed in some sort of shame as if he didn't owe them an explanation of what the fuck was going on!!!!
"Oh….! J-Jonghyeon oppa! W…What are you doing here!?" she stumbled.
"Well I can ask the same thing!" responded Jonghyeon crossing his arms, "WHAT are you doing here with my interviewee!?"
There was an awkward hesitation, with Mr. M looking at her for some sort of explanation himself and her fidgeting around from being placed in the hot seat. After a couple of more seconds of her giving a scratch to her head, she blurted out.
"Jonghyeon ah! Don't be so nosy….we are…..on a date!!!" she said, suddenly interlacing her fingers with Mr. M's.
"Wait….we are…..?"
"You are!?" responded the three men simultaneously.
"Yes! We are dating! We are actually meant to be! And what we do with our free time is none of your business! Right honey?????" she said with a tight smile to the stunned man beside her.
Sensing the overwhelming awkwardness of the whole shitshow, she cleared her throat "Well! I suppose we must get going!" she said glancing at Mingi, who gave her a look that only said "WTF." And then another look as he moved towards Aaron signaling that he'd like to talk to him for a bit.
Understanding the move she finally turned her attention back to the bane of Jonghyeon's existence.
"Don't you take too long getting ready!" she said coyly, placing her hand on his chest, "8PM tonight??????"
For some odd reason, the man glanced over at Jonghyeon which only irked him even more. but he snatched his eyes right away from them, and suddenly taking a sip of his drink which didn't do nothing to cool him off.
Fuck those two! And an explanation wasn't needed! Because he's already figured out that bastard's agenda. Lousy imbeciles!
Mr. M cleared his throat, "I….I ….wouldn't miss it for the world!"
"Oh I know you won't…." she responded before finally turning and strutting her way out of the door, leaving him completely dumbfounded.
"I can explain…" he heard Mingi mumble to Aaron.
"Explain what? If they're really going out why do feel the need to explain unless there was something else going on?"
There was a silence that followed. However, nothing pulled Jonghyeon's attention in the opposite direction more than the pair of eyes from Mr. M himself.
Jonghyeon hesitantly glanced his way only to see a pitiful expression on the man's face as if he owed an explanation as well.
But he didn't want to hear it, instead taking another sip of his drink.
"Now babe…" he heard Aaron say, "You tell me whether or not Mr. M and that woman are going out together…"
It was at that moment when he heard Mr. M curse out loud, making all three men look over at the man who was now grimacing down at the spillage of his own drink on what looked to be the most expensive looking sweater that he's ever seen. And before Jonghyeon knew it, he was suddenly taking off to the men's room, leaving Jonghyeon as the third wheel among the couple who was currently on shaky waters.
He can only say that's what the bastard deserved. Because if he was such a chaebol, there wasn't a need to throw a hissy fit! He might as well go an fetch himself a new one.
Lousy bastard.
After a few more minutes of silence, he heard Mingi continue their conversation.
"No…." He whispered.
There it was. The golden answer to all of Jonghyeon's questions.
And if Jonghyeon wasn't in the mood that he was in at that moment, he would have applauded himself on his keen intuition.
From the side of his eye though, he saw Aaron look down at his lap in utter disappointment.
"I'm sorry babe…I can talk it over with her…..i'm sorry…." pleaded Mingi. But there was still no response from his hyung, as he only shook his head in disappointment.
But if Aaron wasn't going to grow some balls and to allow Mingi to handle this shit then FUCK it! He'll handle it himself!!!
Because what does he mean he'll talk it out with Kyulkyung!? The damage was done. They got what they wanted! He surely didn't feel bad doing whatever he did with Kyulkyung to steal their interviewee!
The truth of the matter was that they have an interview and Jonghyeon and Aaron don't!!!!
She won't listen to a damn thing that Mingi had to say! And there was no fucking way they were going to walk away and allow such a thing to exist!!!!!
Jonghyeon suddenly glanced at the men's room.
He needs to get Mr. M back.
And if getting him back meant doing everything and anything in his power to get him back, then so be it! Because if he didn't do anything right now to get him back on their side then the humiliation ritual that would follow if he didn't would be heavy enough for him to pack his bags, quit his job and move right back to Gangneung.
The nation was unforgiving and they'd NEVER read anything from him again if his competition delivered the thing that he was supposed to deliver first!!
He'd be a laughing stock.
Without thinking much Jonghyeon suddenly grabbed his drink, hastily lifting it up to his lips to take one more sip. But right before he could get another gulp of his drink, his day suddenly turned from worse to absolute SHIT!
Letting out a loud gasp and getting the attention from both Mingi and Aaron, Jonghyeon stared down at his previously pristine sweater vest, which was now drenched with a HEFTY amount of his StrawRaspberry punch.
FUCK!!!
Cursing out loud, Jonghyeon promptly excused himself before making haste right to the men's room.
Now in the men's room, Jonghyeon leaned his forehead against the door in utter disbelief before finally turning towards the mirror and pausing once catching a glimpse at the ridiculous mess that was made.
Cursing to himself again, Jonghyeon peeled the sweater off and over his head before freezing in disbelief again at the NEW problem that was just discovered.
The punch had soaked through his sweater on to his freshly ironed dress shirt button down.
Goddammit what a fool he was.
He sighed, closing his eyes and wishing he'd just got up and left the premises as opposed to the ludicrous idea of taking a sip at that watered down mess.
Jonghyeon looked back up, blinking at the pink stained shirt, before leaning over the sink to get a closer look.
But what made Jonghyeon pause in his tracks was when he realized that his new "problem" suddenly had the attention of the man across from him who had the same exact problem as he did.
Jonghyeon observed the Mr. M through the mirror. The guy's sweater was now off, and his actions of his own poor attempt to clean the soaked stain from his button down shirt had slowed significantly as he tried to somehow simultaneously clean it while also oogling in Jonghyeon's direction.
Which made Jonghyeon realize one thing and one thing only when he was suddenly faced with a burning question that begged for an answer
Was…this how he'd have to……renegotiate?????
He didn't know but based on the way the man was staring him down, it made sense to go this path in an attempt to lure him back to his side. Would it work????? That was a question he had no answer to but for some reason, Jonghyeon just had no choice but….. to push further.
Jonghyeon gulped before hesitantly glancing the man's way who oh so conveniently "focused" right back on what he was doing the moment he looked over.
Yes. That would totally work!
Without hesitating any further, Jonghyeon straightened himself, fingers going up to unbutton the first few buttons of his dress shirt, knowing full well that the man had completely halted his actions by now.
But Jonghyeon continued. All he needs is to get him back. That's it! Nothing more, nothing less!!
And definitely no frills.
Jonghyeon's hands traveled down to the stain on his shirt, grimacing at the feeling of soaked cloth against his skin.
He looked over to the man before speaking.
"Gosh…. i'm…. so wet! It looks like I need to clean myself up…." he said slowly sauntering over to the man until he was cornered.
Keeping his eyes on him, Jonghyeon unbuttoned two more buttons, allowing more of his upper chest area to be exposed before finally reaching towards the paper towel dispenser right next to the man to grab a piece. And he wasn't quite sure how that pitiful sheet was going to cool him off or slow down his racing heart as he stood at such close proximity with the guy for the first time.
But he continued anyway.
Reaching for another piece of paper, he opened his mouth to speak.
"I don't wanna get myself too sticky…you understand right?" He asked dabbing it against his chest. However, what he DID not expect was what came out of that man's mouth next.
"Mr. Kim, may I suggest you swallow it down slower??? It would have prevented you from becoming so sticky." commented Mr. M with a mischievous glint in his eyes as he stared down at his chest, which honestly caused Jonghyeon to choke on his saliva and almost stopped Jonghyeon in his tracks.
Freaking perv!
But his body completely betrayed him at that moment, as his face and body had grown uncontrollably hot. And Jonghyeon has quite frankly never felt so embarrassed.
But he also concluded that this was clearly a good sign that he was definitely winning him back! And so, Jonghyeon pushed further.
Quickly pulling himself together, Jonghyeon plastered a coy smile before reaching over to grab another paper towel.
He then hesitated before gently placing it on the man's chest.
He watched as the paper immediately absorbed the spilled beverage that stained his shirt, and suddenly acted surprised.
"Oh my goodness…you're all wet too." he commented quickly reaching for another paper towel. He gave a smile, "Let me help you out."
"Oh Mercy…." commented Mr. M when Jonghyeon dabbed the paper towels over the soaked shirt.
Continuing on, Jonghyeon's smirk grew wider as he quickly noted that this man didn't play about his physique.
Pressing more onto his chest, Jonghyeon spoke, "Do you work out Mr. M??????"
"Well….yes I do…"
"Hmm It's quite firm…" commented Jonghyeon.
The man, now clearly flustered cleared his throat "Well…it's naturally like that y'know….actually I don't work out that much."
He finished with a toothy grin. And Jonghyeon, despite clearly being too damn flustered for his own good, smiled endearingly at the guys cherry red ears.
After a couple of more moments, he commented back.
"Yeah, I can tell."
Jonghyeon pressed on, almost gasping at how soaked this man's shirt actually was and wondered if he legitimately ran it under the sink! As it put his own forgotten soaked shirt to shame.
After a couple seconds, the man commented "My oh my little Journalist, you've done a better job than me."
Grabbing another paper towel he spoke, "Well it wouldn't have took much if you would have just used both hands." he responded, somehow making the color from the man's eras travel to his entire face.
Giving a smirk at the man's reaction, he finally took this as a sign to no longer linger on the burning invitation that he was here for.
He gulped, heart starting to race even more than it already was, hesitating before finally landing his invitation.
"You know….we should…. really try it again….." he said, earning a look that was wildly mixed with utter shock and confusion. But when the man smirked, it made Jonghyeon halt his actions, instinctively taking a step back once realizing why that pervert was reacting that way,
"The interview I mean!…..we should…do it again!"
Jonghyeon held his breath as he waited for the man's answer, but instead of his wish coming true like he planned, his dream quickly turned into a nightmare.
Jonghyeon's heart unexpectedly dropped when the man's smile wavered.
Sudden desperation taking over, he stepped forward, grabbing the man's collar "You would really help me if you agree to it….please."
Jonghyeon searched the man's eyes for some kind of positive turn around but when the man's face gradually turned weary, Jonghyeon just knew that his plan's downfall was heading to the point of no return.
But why????? He needed some kind of explanation! Why was the man who was so gung ho about interviewing with them suddenly so resistant?
Jonghyeon stared at him to possibly search for the answer himself. The guy opened his mouth as if he was about to reveal it himself but all that was left in the atmosphere was the same disappointing weariness like before that he could not understand.
Placing his hands atop his, the man gently pried Jonghyeon's hands off his collar, and Jonghyeon's heart and stomach dropped 6 inches into the ground when Mr. M finally parted ways from him.
He was fucked!
Jonghyeon stood gobsmacked, feeling his eyes and nose suddenly feel funny at the sight of his one true chance slipping right out his fingers.
Pitifully watching the man reach for his sweater and make a beeline for the door.
Contemplation took over as he gambled with himself if he should just let it happen, face the nation and surrender himself to the unfair win of his competition. Or simply stand there, say his peace for his own good for once and the release the weight that had been crippling him ever since witnessing that train wreck that went down between his ex-friends not too long ago.
But as soon as that man placed his hand around that door handle, Jonghyeon chose the latter.
"Okay, you know what? Fine! You go on with them! But don't expect them to return the favor." he finished, storming off pass the man all until he got to the door. However as soon as he reached for the door handle, he felt a hand grab his shoulder.
"What did you just say?????" Asked the man in some kind of disbelief as if Jonghyeon dropped the most devastating bomb of the millennium.
Jonghyeon turned to face the man who now wore a distressful expression of apprehension mixed with the same disbelief that matched his voice, which only told Jonghyeon everything that he needed to know.
That those two lunatics have offered up something that he could not refuse.
The guy wanted answers. Immediately. He could see it in the way the guy searched and pried with his eyes as he stared at him. And Jonghyeon, with the risk of further ruining his day, was happy to oblige.
He spoke.
"You heard me. I meant what I said. Whatever they offered will not be followed through…." said Jonghyeon.
Clearly taken aback and stunned beyond words, Mr. M's gaze went down to his feet as if the most disappointing thing in his entire life was just revealed to him. Which made Jonghyeon all the more curious what they even bribed him with in the first place.
Jonghyeon fidgeted, not knowing what to do in this awkward moment that he found himself caught in. And after a couple more moments of silence, Mr. M finally spoke
"I'm sorry Mr. Kim. I….wasn't too privy of that."
Jonghyeon, sighed not taking long before mimicking Mr. M's action of looking down to his fidgeting hands before finally responding.
"I've known them since high school. Mingi is a fake ass chameleon and Kyulkyung is a lying little thief."
The awkward silence between them ate Jonghyeon alive and went on way too long for Jonghyeon's liking. But it seemed as if his own statement only dug him further into a hole. As it simply made Mr. M all the more curious as he now leaned against the sink with his arms crossed, expecting a further explanation.
Jonghyeon let out a frustrated sigh, dropping his hands to his sides as he couldn't believe that this stranger that he only met two days ago was making him relive his own fallout with his ex-friends. But yet for some reason….Jonghyeon just couldn't stop himself anymore.
"They betrayed me." He said in a voice no louder than a mumble, "And they'll betray you too. So don't think that you'll get what you want."
Jonghyeon ended with a pointed look to the now concerned man before finally turning towards the exit in an attempt to finally flee this awkward situation.
Grabbing onto the handle, he made one last statement for good measures.
"And…. drop our number. Don't call us when things don't work out for you, because you won't get what you need from us either. This whole thing is finished." he said curtly.
Right when he was about to twist the handle, he suddenly felt his hand grabbed which honestly startled him.
His first reaction was to immediately snatch it away because he wanted nothing to do with this man ever again, as it only made him think about the ex-friends who fucked him over all those years ago.
It made him sick!! And there was no need to waste his lunch hour dealing with this mess.
But for some odd reason, his stupid heart just had to give into the genuinely pleading look that took over the man's face. And it wasn't puppy dog mess that he was dealing with. No. This man had a seriousness like no other and desperation beyond belief.
There was a heaviness that it carried that Jonghyeon was frankly not prepared for. But yet, it somehow made him all the more curious what bothered the guy so much. he didn't have to think long though because the man spoke before he did.
"I'm sorry Mr. Kim. I had no idea…" he said but looked off to the side, hesitating deeply on his next sentence. But after a couple of more moments he spoke again.
"Let's do it again."
Jonghyeon furrowed his brows in confusion. Because based on the guy's hesitance, he honestly expected more. But not wanting to press the man any further than that, Jonghyeon opened his mouth to speak but right before he could get his words out, Mr. M beat him to it.
"We can do it again! But….but you also gotta do me a favor….."
Jonghyeon nodded fervently, crossing his arms "Mmm hmm, I knew it! What is it did you want from me????" he said inching closer to the guy with narrowed eyes, "Also….. i'm not one of those guys by the way….. SO don't even think about it."
The man widened his eyes, "Oh no! Of course not! You are a fantastic cleaner, I must say….." he said, gaze falling right to his exposed chest and then down his body. He cleared his throat, "But of course!……i'd….. never do that Mr. Kim."
The guy's expression was now softened which in relief, made Jonghyeon's tense body softened as well.
Looking over to the side as if scrambling for something, Mr. M continued "….How about a….new beverage."
Jonghyeon's face turned deadpanned. He must have waited for what felt like a whole 5 minutes, expecting him to tell him that he was joking.
Because seriously!? All the hesitation for a beverage that his ex-friends probably bought him!?
It just wasn't believable. There was something the man refused to tell him but as much as Jonghyeon wanted to play interrogation, he digressed.
"Hmm….seems reasonable" said Jonghyeon giving a nod, "what kind of-"
"I need it large, cold, and fixed fresh on the spot. Nothing tan, brown or bitter. And please. Make sure it's not in one of those flimsy cups." demanded Mr. M waving his hands dismissively "I need it in a glass like yours."
He then leaned forward, giving a sniff to Jonghyeon's shirt, making him promptly take a step back.
"I need what you had and I need it now. I am extremely parched! And I don't want to die, because if I do it's on you. So we mustn't wait too longer!" he finished, snapping his fingers.
Jonghyeon stood there too stunned for words because he'd be damned.
This guy was a spoiled chaebol. And that was all the proof he needed to refute his stupid Man in Black theory. But if this was what it took to get back that interview, then so be it.
he was back on good terms with the man, and that was all he needed at the end of the day for a successful interview.
"Now if it isn't Kim Jonghyeon!"
Now standing side by side with Mr. M at the register, Jonghyeon's eyes lit up.
"Youngja noona!?" he exclaimed excitingly.
It was none other than Lee Youngja, the store manager of Charlotte's Corner. He's never met the actual owner of the cafe and Youngja's role in the store has rotated throughout the years, becoming a lot less frequent.
But she's always taken a liking for him, Mingi and Kyulkyung altogether. However she seemed to have always had a soft spot for Jonghyeon. He doesn't know why but he liked it. She always kinda acted as his 2nd mother to Jonghyeon as she always made sure to look out for him.
She even looked out for him during those tough days back in highschool as he crammed for tests, projects and deadlines, even showing up when his friendship breakup with Kyulkyung and Mingi was still fresh. She was more than generous, often Letting him stay a little longer after closing, and sending him home with extra food and even extending her hospitality to his sisters and parents.
Case in point, she was the best, and he couldn't really refute the fact that she was a large reason why he still visited the cafe even after the souring of his friendship.
"My oh my! You've grown up so well!" She said giddily, giving him a tight embrace.
"Wow! it's so nice to see you and your….."
Now paying her full attention to Mr. M, Jonghyeon spoke.
"New friend!" Said Jonghyeon.
Mr. M cleared his throat before stepping forward.
"That's Mr. M, madame. Son of HBHW of HBHW associates. I am here on a little business trip and the lovely Mr. Kim has graciously decided to show me around!"
Yeoungja raised her eyebrows impressively before giving Jonghyeon a mischievous glance.
"Chaebol" mouthed Jonghyeon to which Yeoungja winked before zipping her mouth shut.
"You're a handsome fellow indeed Mr. M, and a perfect friend for my little Jjongie!" she said to which Jonghyeon felt his ears heat up slightly from the statement alone.
"So what can I get for you all today?"
Gesturing to Jonghyeon's direction, Mr. M responded "Give me whatever he spilled on his shirt."
Eyes widening, Jonghyeon cleared his throat before quickly intercepting "He'll have a large StrawRasberry punch."
Youngja nodded, promptly moving behind the counter but right before she completely turned away, Jonghyeon suddenly grabbed her shoulder "Oh! and please…make sure it's not in a plastic cup!"
Slightly taken aback, she smiled before giving a nod and a pat on his shoulder before finally moving behind the counter.
Suddenly, there was another slap to his shoulder making him jump!
He turned around only to come face to face with Aaron.
With pursed lips, he looked at Jonghyeon as if expecting some sort of explanation. But there was also a mischievous glint in his narrowed eyes as they repeatedly glanced between himself and Mr. M.
Now feeling put on the spot, Jonghyeon quickly broke the awkward silence.
"Hyung! I have the greatest news, you'll never guess what happened!"
"Oh I can…." said Aaron looking at him pointedly before throwing Mr. M a look. Jonghyeon turned to glance at the guy, who was too preoccupied chatting with Youngja and another worker.
He turned back to Aaron, "We're back on good terms, he agreed to interview with us again! Isn't that great!? Shouldn't you be jumping for joy???? Our day is turning around for the better!"
"Conflict of interest Jonghyeon! Conflict of interest." he responded cautiously to which Jonghyeon sighed.
"I promise it's not that." he said holding up his pinky.
Aaron smiled before hooking his pinky with Jonghyeon's.
"In all seriousness, that's great! But you'll probably want to prepare party preparations for the good news that I have!"
Jonghyeon widened his eyes, world coming to a standstill as he awaited his friend's reveal.
"What is it?" he asked.
"Well Mingi and I had a long talk and he said that he'll regroup with Kyulkyung about our stolen interview!"
Jonghyeon's smile dropped.
"Isn't that great!?"
Aaron must have waited for a long time for Jonghyeon's reaction because with the way he suddenly became concerned suddenly made Jonghyeon realize that he had in fact been standing slack jawed for God knows how long.
"Dude you okay?"
Not wanting to raise suspicions out of his friend, Jonghyeon quickly gave himself an imaginary slap to the face, forcing himself to plaster on the most uncomfortable smile thus far.
"Wow…….that's….great!!!" he said through his teeth.
No. That was SO not great!