Ceo's Secret Romance

Hey Seol-ah's, how much more are you going to drink?" Yoreum's voice was filled with concern as she watched me take another sip of soju. "I've only just started," I replied softly, the pain in my chest growing with each swallow. My heart ached, and no amount of alcohol seemed to dull the sharp edges of my heartbreak. "Don't let that jerk ruin your life," Yoreum advised firmly, her eyes never leaving my face. She was always the strong one, the friend who knew what to say. I sighed, feeling a tear slip down my cheek. "I can't help but blame myself. Maybe it's because I'm not pretty enough." "He's a total jerk, Seol-ah. He never appreciated you," Yoreum said with conviction. I wanted to believe her, but the doubt gnawed at me. "Do you really believe that?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper, tears blurring my vision. Yoreum nodded, her expression unwavering. "Absolutely. Stop crying and show him what he's lost." "But what if nobody else wants me because of how I look?" My voice quivered, the insecurity pouring out. "Stop thinking like that. You're strong, beautiful, and deserving of love," Yoreum reassured me, her words like a warm blanket on a cold night. I reached for the bottle again, but Yoreum's hand stopped me. "No, Seol-ah. It's time to go home." --- The next morning, I woke up with a pounding headache and a heavy heart. "Where am I? Why do I feel so dizzy?" I muttered, my head spinning. Then it all came back to me. "Oh yeah, I remember now. I was really drunk last night. My boyfriend dumped me because he didn't find me attractive anymore. Yoreum was right about him being a jerk. I need to show him what he's lost and make him regret it!" As I sat up, trying to shake off the dizziness, my mom peeked into my room. "Seol-ah, are you feeling okay?" "I'm feeling a bit dizzy, but I have to go to work today. I have an interview at one of Korea's biggest hotels," I said, the determination in my voice surprising even myself. "This interview is my chance to start over and get my revenge," I thought. My heart was set on proving that I was more than just my looks, that I was capable and deserving of respect. "Make sure to eat something and take care of yourself," my mom said, her voice full of concern. "I will, Mom. Today's an important day," I replied, giving her a small smile. As I got ready, I couldn't help but think about the interview. "I hope I can pass the interview and get the job. It will be my first step towards reclaiming my confidence and showing that jerk what he's missing." The mirror reflected a determined woman, ready to take on the world. Today was the start of my new journey. Today is the day of my interview at one of Korea's biggest hotels, the Grand Han Hotel. I’m so nervous; I hope I can pass the interview and get the job. After the interview, the moment I had been waiting for arrived. "You are hired to work at this hotel. You will be Manager Kim's assistant," they told me. The interview was successful, and I finally landed a good job! I was overwhelmed with joy and couldn't wait to share the news with my best friend, Yoreum. "Hey!! I finally got the job!" I sobbed from happiness as I called her. Yoreum's voice was filled with disbelief. "Are you kidding me? For real? Did you really get the job at the Grand Han Hotel, one of Korea's biggest hotels?" "Yes! I got the job, Yoreum. Let's celebrate my success. Meet me at 7 PM at the location I’m texting you. I'm giving you a special treat today." "Okay, fine by me. Let's celebrate my bestie's success. Congratulations once again!" "Yeah, let’s meet!" At the restaurant, we settled into our seats, the atmosphere buzzing with excitement. "Order whatever you want. Everything is on me!" I declared. Yoreum smiled. "Sure, sure, I will. By the way, Seol-ah, when are you going to start?" "I will start in two days." "That's good," Yoreum said, beaming. "Yeah, finally, I get to work there." Just then, she mentioned, "Hey, your ex uploaded a post on his Instagram." "What did he post?" I asked, curious and a bit wary. "It looks like he has a new girlfriend. She seems rich." "He sure dumped me because of that rich girl. But I will show him I don’t need jerks like that in my life. I can make a lot of money without anyone's help." "Yeah, let’s forget that bastard. Now cheers to my bestie's success. Cheers!!!" We clinked glasses, and as the night wore on, I got very drunk. "Yoreum, I think we should go home." "Yeah, let's go," she agreed, helping me out of the restaurant. --- Two days later, it was my first day at work. I needed to arrive quickly and make a good impression. "Ha, I finally reached in time," I sighed with relief as I entered the Grand Han Hotel. At the hotel, a friendly receptionist greeted me. "Hello, are you Miss Seol-ah?" "Yes, I am," I replied, trying to contain my excitement. "You will assist our manager, Mr. Kim Taeju." "Okay, I got it," I affirmed. "Let me show you to the manager's office." As we walked through the corridors, anticipation built up inside me. When we finally reached the office, the receptionist announced, "Hello, Manager Kim. This is Seol-ah. She will assist you from today." I saw a blonde man in his 30s with white skin and bright eyes. He was actually quite handsome. *Come on, Seol-ah, get to your senses!* I reminded myself internally. "Hello, Manager Kim Taeju. I will assist you from today," I greeted him, trying to stay professional. "I hope you will do a great job, Miss Seol-ah'," Manager Kim responded warmly, his kind demeanor instantly putting me at ease. Throughout the day, Manager Kim proved to be an excellent mentor. He patiently guided me through my tasks, offering valuable advice and support every step of the way. His encouragement and kindness made my first day at work a memorable and enjoyable experience. As the day drew to a close, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. Today had been a great day, filled with learning and new experiences. I felt like I was finally on the right path, moving forward with my life and leaving the past behind. That’s what I thought until I reached home.