AAE: NIGHT ROMANCE (PART I)

By Margie L

***

As senior buyer for a thriving family-owned department store for the past year, Jin Sun-Mi takes her work seriously and often works late into the night. She did not mind the long hours as she hoped that that her hard work would be noticed and she would be promoted to head buyer in 6 months' time. The previous head buyer, Joo-Hee, had resigned to follow her husband to the United States where he has been posted.

She was working late again tonight to complete her project for the presentation and meeting with the new Head of Procurement early the next morning. Since she has just returned from a month's leave to care for her invalid father who has since died, she has yet to meet her new boss. From snatches of the office grapevine, she learnt that he is quite young, articulate and extremely handsome. All the ladies were infatuated with him and tried all ways to catch his attention.

Her colleagues could not believe that she did not share their enthusiasm for the most eligible bachelor in the country. She gave up trying to convince them, that what she wanted, was not to be another notch on the belt for Yun Hyung-Chul, but to get the promotion she wanted and to make a better life for herself and her brother, who is in his first year at university. Moreover, she is still mourning for her father whom she loved dearly.

It was nearly 9.00 p.m. when she was finally satisfied with her project. Feeling hungry and not expecting anyone in the office at that late hour, she walked barefooted into the pantry. She was startled when she saw a man sitting at the coffee table, a pile of documents in front of him.

"Oh... oh, my goodness! I was not expecting to find anyone in here. Sorry, I'll just leave you alone."

Holding her hand to her chest, she tried to excuse herself. He had looked up the minute she entered the pantry.

"No, no, its okay. You're Miss Jin Sun-Mi, senior buyer of Procurement." It was a statement, not a question. He held out his hand. "How do you do? I'm Yun Hyung-Chul."

Her boss? Her colleagues had not exaggerated about his movie star looks. She took his proffered hand and stiffened slightly at the 'current' that ran through her hand. "Oh, you're my new boss? Yes, I'm Jin Sun-Mi. How do you do?"

"Please accept my belated condolences on your father's demise."

She bit her lips to stop the tears that threatened to flow. Talking about her father hurts, as his death was still a fresh wound in her heart. However, she braced herself and thanked him for his sympathetic words.

"Do you usually work so late? Wouldn't your other family members be worried?"

"I have just a younger brother. He stays in the university hostel and comes home during the weekends. I had to finish my project for tomorrow's presentation. I was just going to leave but decided to get myself a drink. Would you like a refill?" Was she babbling?

Just at that moment, her tummy growled to remind her that she has not had her dinner yet.

He chuckled and said, "So, someone has not had her dinner yet?"

She smiled sheepishly and replied, "I guess I better forget about the coffee and get myself home. Goodnight, Mr. Yun."

She headed for the door.

"Wait... Miss Jin."

"Yes, Mr. Yun?"

"I haven't eaten yet too. I would like to talk to you about your project. Would you join me for dinner?"

"Oh, well... I, er..."

"Don't worry, it's strictly business."

Put it that way, she had to accept his invitation. When he asked what she wanted to eat, she told him that she loves noodles -- any kind would do as long as they're noodles.

They were both so hungry when their orders arrived -- so they were intent on filling their stomachs. Only after their plates were removed, did he speak.

"Tell me about yourself, Miss Jin."

"But I thought you wanted to talk about the project?"

He looked directly at her. "That will come later. I have met individually with all the other staff and although I had read your personal file and resume, I did not get the chance to meet with you as you were away."

Sun-Mi was perturbed by the unreadable look in his face. Her heart was beating faster than usual.

She calmed her nerves and looked straight at him. "Okay. I joined this company a year ago immediately after I had obtained my degree. I had planned on doing my masters, but due to my father's illness, I had to work to pay for his medical fees. My brother wanted to work to help out but I insisted on him going to university because he's a very bright boy and loves studying. I could not deprive him of his education to further my own". She stopped and looked down at her hands.

"Do you like your job as senior buyer?"

Sun-Mi brightened at the mention of her work and responded enthusiastically. "Oh yes! Definitely. I don't regret all the hard work for the past year. I have learnt so many things from everyone and I'm just bursting with new ideas for our project."

He smiled at her child-like spontaneity. "What are your plans for the future?"

"I'm sorry I do not understand your question?"

"I mean, if you have the opportunity and the means, do you still plan to do your Masters? Would you quit your job then?"

"Yes, certainly. If I could, I would still like to do my Masters, but I would not resign from my job. I really love this job. But it's wishful thinking to hope that I can afford to continue studying while supporting my brother through university. Not unless I come into an inheritance." She gave a rueful smile.

A discreet cough at Hyung-Chul's elbow caught his attention. "I'm terribly sorry, Sir, but it's time to close."

Both looked at their watches and were surprised that it was already 12.00 a.m. Hyung-Chul apologized to the owner for keeping them from closing.

When they reached Sun-Mi's apartment block, he offered to see her upstairs. As she was afraid that her neighbours would gossip, she politely declined. She bade him goodnight.

"I'm sorry I kept you so late. You better get to bed immediately so that you will feel refreshed for tomorrow." He held her hand with both of his and returned her "Good night".

It was a wonder that Sun-Mi managed to wake up in time the next morning. She has had a restless night, tossing and turning. Her mind was full of Yun Hyung-Chul. While she could not deny that she was deeply attracted to him, she told herself that her feelings could not go beyond mere attraction. After all, he was her boss and out of her league.

In the conference room, Sun-Mi laid out her project and slides and sat down to wait for Yun Hyung-Chul to arrive. Outwardly, she projected a calm and cool image but inwardly, her stomach was like a roller-coaster.

The conference room door opened and when she saw the management trooping in one by one, Sun-Mi was confused. She had thought that this was just a simple presentation between her and her boss. She had not expected all the management staff to attend. However, she greeted each of them respectfully and remained standing at the door to wait for Hyung-Chul to arrive.

Hyung-Chul arrived and ushered in an elderly man whom Sun-Mi recognized as the Chairman and owner of the company. She could not understand why so many people were attending her lowly self's presentation. Hyung-Chul noticed her confusion and led her to a corner of the room.

"Mr. Yun, I thought this is a simple presentation? I don't understand why the Chairman and the managers are all here."

Hyung-Chul noticed her anxiety and patted her back. "Don't worry about them. I was the one who called them to attend this meeting because I have an announcement to make after your presentation. My father just happened to drop by and decided he wanted to hear about your plans for our company."

"Your father? Our Chairman is your father?"

"You didn't know?"

Sun-Mi felt foolish for not having realized that Yun Hyung-Chul is Chairman Yun's son.

"Don't worry." He reassured her. "You don't have to look at them. Just look straight at me and ignore them. I have confidence in you."

Surprisingly, after the first 30 minutes, Sun-Mi no longer felt nervous and delivered her presentation and plans for the company with confidence and persuasive skill and answered all the questions thrown at her to everyone's satisfaction. It was obvious that even the Chairman was impressed.

Hyung-Chul tapped lightly on the table and announced. "Gentlemen, it is my pleasure to announce that Chairman Yun has approved the promotion of Ms. Jin Sun-Mi to Head Buyer with immediate effect."

Everyone clapped and nodded their congratulations.

Hyung-Chul stood up and offered his hand to Sun-Mi. "Congratulations, Miss Jin".

She had wanted to take his hand but suddenly she felt the room spinning around her and birds were flying around her head. Birds? What were birds doing in the conference room?

"Sun-Mi, wake up."

She felt someone lightly patting her face and opened her eyes. Her vision slowly focused around the room. She did not recognize the room and as her eyes moved slowly around the room, she noticed the photograph on the desk. This was Hyung-Chul's office and the photograph was of him with his parents.

She also realized that he was holding her in his arms and looking tenderly down at her. She immediately stood up but regretted her hastiness when she felt the room spinning again. Hyung-Chul held her again and pushed her back down on the sofa.

"Oh... oh... my head. What happened?"

"You're asking me what happened? You fainted! I wanted to congratulate you on your promotion to head buyer and you fainted! It was hardly the reaction I expected".

"Did it really happen? I'm really promoted to head buyer?" Sun-Mi could not really believe that her dream finally came true. Feeling emotional, she could not control her tears. She took the hankie he offered.

"Actually, Joo Hee recommended you before her resignation. She was very sure that you are capable enough to handle her job. Last night, I was studying your resume when you came into the pantry. I have seen your photograph so I knew who you were. I have heard a lot about you from the staff and our clients. Everyone sang praises of you. Do you realize you're a very popular lady?"

"This morning's presentation was really a test and you passed with flying colours. My father has also given his approval."

"I'm so embarrassed. I really made a fool of myself, didn't I, Mr. Yun?"

"Since we're going to work very closely together, just call me by my name, okay?"

"I can't call you by your name, you're my boss after all. What would the other staff say?"

"Okay, in front of others, you call me Mr. Yun, but when we're alone, you call me Hyung-Chul." Having decided that, he stood up. "Now, Miss Head Buyer, I order you to treat me to lunch".

Sun-Mi gave a mock salute, "Yes Sir!"

The End Part I

AAE: NIGHT ROMANCE (PART II)
Written by: Margie L

***

The two women in the ladies' restroom were having an interesting conversation. It was obvious what they were making unflattering remarks.

"Have you heard about what's going on between the new head buyer and the director of procurement?"

"Yes I have; but is it true?" The younger woman was a bit doubtful. "I find it hard to believe because she looks so prim and proper."

"Bah! 'Still waters run deep.' She's just putting on a front!" The older woman sneered. "Haven't you noticed that she's always together with the Director? They lunch together quite often too. It's not at all surprising if there's something going on between them."

The younger woman sighed. "She's so lucky! How I wish I could be in her shoes."

"You?" The older woman sniggered. "Have you looked at yourself in the mirror? The Director is interested in only the pretty ones. Like 'you know who'." The spiteful woman added, "Even if you go for plastic surgery, don't hold your breath that he would notice you. I bet my LV bag she would never let him escape from her clutches!"

The door to one of the cubicles opened. Sun-Mi walked up to the two women.

"I'm glad you're both enjoying yourself at my expense."

She smiled at them as she walked towards the exit. But she stopped and gave a parting shot. "You know, your LV bag is safe. I'm definitely not letting him escape from my clutches. So, if you're thinking of getting him, let me give a piece of advice. You can continue to dream!" She held her head high and walked out.

The two women exchanged alarmed looks. The older woman pounced on the younger one. "You stupid woman! Why didn't you make sure the cubicles were empty?"

The younger woman fought back. "You were in here first. Why didn't you know she was in there?"


Sitting at her desk, Sun-Mi tried to compose herself. They were so unfair and so wrong. They hardly lunched together because she would always think of excuses to decline his many invitations. She picked up her coffee mug. But her hands were shaking so badly, she spilled some of the liquid onto her documents. Taking a tissue to dab at the documents, tears of frustration filled her eyes.

The rest of the day managed to pass uneventfully. By the time evening came around, Sun-Mi's mood had improved somewhat. It helped when she recalled what her parents used to tell her -- "There is nothing to fear as long as one's conscience is clear."

She got her bag from the drawer and prepared to leave. Just then, she saw Hyung-Chul walking towards her.

"Just leaving?"

"Yes. Is there something you need me to do?" she asked.

"Yes, there is." He hesitated a moment before continuing, "I was wondering if you'd join me for dinner."

Sun-Mi had to think on her feet. "I had just made plans to dine with my brother."

"Really?" He shrugged. "I should have given you more notice." He smiled at her. "Well, enjoy yourselves then. I'll see you tomorrow." He gave an off-hand salute and left.

Sun-Mi waited a bit longer before heading towards the lift. She walked slowly along the street and did a bit of window-shopping. Passing a street vendor and feeling hungry, she bought a couple of skewers of 'eomuk'. She bit into a piece of fish sausage and continued walking.

Someone tapped her shoulder and almost choked on the snack. The last person she wanted to see was standing in front of her.

"So, where's your brother?"

She reddened but replied breezily. "Oh, he cancelled at the last minute. He has a habit of standing me up."

"Can I believe you're telling me the truth this time?"

"Of course it's the truth." she insisted. "I have no reason to lie and to you of all people." Nearing the bus stand, she picked up her pace. "That's my bus. Bye, Senior!"

He grasped her wrist... "I'm sending you home." He ignored her protests and dragged her along the street.

She tried to pull out of his grasp. "It would take you out of the way. Besides, the bus is already ..." She turned to look at the diminishing sight of the bus.

"Too bad. You missed your bus." Sun-Mi thought he certainly looked happy about it. "Looks like you need transport more than ever. So come along."

When they were seated in his car, she asked, "Was it just a coincidence that you were there?"

"I was following you."

She turned to face him. "Why on earth would you do that? Is playing 'sleuth' your second profession?"

He voiced his suspicion. "You lied when you said you were to have dinner with your brother. And I believe it's not the first time either."

She decided to shut up. "This is not the way to my place." She grew anxious when he took another route. "Where are we going?"

"I'm spiriting you away to dinner."

"But I've had dinner." She was still holding onto the other skewer of 'eomuk'.

"That's your dinner?" He scoffed and added, "Even a cat eats more than you do then. Give it to me."

She handed the skewer to him. "I'm driving. Hold it for me while I take a bite."

"What?" Sun-Mi was discomfited at the thought to having to perform such a personal gesture.

He opened his mouth. She hesitantly held the skewer to his mouth. He took a bite. A bit of gravy trickled down his chin. Without thinking, she swiped his chin with her finger.

"Thank you." He smiled at her.

She hastily explained. "I was afraid that if it stained your shirt, I would have to buy you a new one!"

He teased. "I finally found out your secret vice. You're a cheap-skate!"

"I'm not a cheapskate!"

"Have you tried Cantonese cuisine?" Sun-Mi said she hasn't. "Okay with you if we dine at the Lotus Garden? I like the food and ambience there."

"Sounds fine."

At the restaurant, she suggested that he not order too many dishes. It would be wasted if both of them can't finish the food.

He asked her. "How do you like this place?"

She looked around her. "I like it. Do you come here often?"

"Once in a while." He looked at her. "Funny how the whole place seems more pleasant tonight. It must be the company."

Not knowing how to respond, she busied herself with her tea. She wished the waiter return with their orders.

"Sun-Mi, look at me." She looked up. "No one else is here. Tell me why you're putting me at arm's length."

"What do you mean?"

"Is it because of what staff have been saying about you and me?"

Eyes wide in surprise, she inquired. "You knew about the rumours?"

He nodded. "I have my sources."

"Then I do not have to explain further."

The waiter returned with their food. They ate in silence. Hyung-Chul only continued after the dishes were cleared.

"You place too much emphasis on what people say or think." He told her. "You should just ignore their senseless talk."

Sun-Mi replied, "It's easy to say, but hard to do." she clarified. "I was happy when Joo-Hee recommended me to take her place. But at the same time, I wanted to earn the promotion through my own efforts. I did not want the promotion just because the management felt obliged to do so."

She continued calmly. "When I heard them talking about us, I was upset. They conveniently overlooked my months of hard work. They conveniently forgot that I had not even met you prior to Joo-Hee's recommendation. In order not to give them any ammunition to talk, I decided it was better that we are not seen together so often."

Without giving him a chance to say more, she stood up. "Thanks for the dinner but it's getting late."

He stood up. "I'll send you home."


As they were walking out, a group of diners were entering. Sun-Mi was aghast when she noticed that they were colleagues from other departments.

One of them had sighted them too. "Director Yun! Jin Sun-Mi! Fancy meeting both of you here."

"We had just concluded a meeting with a client." Hyung-Chul replied. "Having dinner so late?"

They explained that they had to complete some work before they could leave the office. "Where's the client?"

"He has just left." Hyung-Chul responded coolly. "Well, enjoy your dinner."

Sun-Mi knew the group was still watching them when Hyung-Chul drove off.

"Are you worried that there would be more talk tomorrow?"

"I can't stop them if they want to do that." She shrugged unhappily. "I'm used to it."

He asked. "I could issue a memo stating that I would not tolerate any ..."

"No!" She interrupted. "That would be even worse!" But she thanked him for trying to help. "Forget it."

To ease the tension, she told him about her brother. "He's now starting to notice girls in a different way. When he was a kid, he would always say, "Girls, yuck!"

Sun-Mi's attempt at aping her brother made Hyung-Chul chortle.

She continued, "Now, he's always calling me up to ask my advice." she grinned. "Recently, he even told me he likes a girl he met at the public library."

Hyung-Chul laughed. "I hope you won't ruin his chances by giving him all sorts of wrong advice."

"For your information, Director Yun, I was a student counselor whilst in university." She was insulted by his jibe. "I could have put any psychologist out of business!"

"Oh yeah?" He asked skeptically.

"Yeah!" She challenged. "Tell me if you have a problem and I'll solve it for you."

Hyung-Chul indulged her. "Well, there is this young lady I really like and admire. I've liked her since the first day we met. And I'm trying to decide if I should tell her."

"Have you known her long?"

He replied. "About six months."

"Does she knows you like her? Or, has she given you any indication she likes you too?"

He has arrived at her apartment. He turned off the engine.

Sun-Mi was ready to alight from the car. "Oh, we're here." she smiled at him. "If you still want my free advice, send me an email -- after working hours. I don't want to get booted out for abusing company time!" She laughed at her own joke.

"Wait! I like to finish my story. Can you can stay a bit longer?" He inquired and waited for her response.

"Ok."

He answered. "The answer is 'no' to both your questions."

Sun-Mi asked. "Have you told her how you feel?" Hyung-Chul shook his head. "Why not? Surely you don't expect her to know if you don't tell her your feelings."

He looked ahead. "I've tried to tell her many times, but she's always avoiding me."

"Why do you think she's doing that?"

He turned to her. "You told me you were afraid people would talk."

Stunned by his confession, she quickly looked away from him. He turned her to face him.

"No advice for me?"

"Senior ... "

"If only you'd agree to give both of us a chance, I'll do anything." He continued gently. "I'll not make it uncomfortable for you by talking about personal matters in the office. We'll meet discreetly. No one would know about our meetings. I'll agree to anything you say. Just tell me your terms."

She was touched by his words. "I really don't know, Senior. Office relationships often do not work out."

He persisted. "It won't work out only if you do not share my feelings." Her silence told him she did. "We'll take it one step at a time." He continued to plead. "Give me a chance to show you how much I care."

Sun-Mi was unaware that when she finally smiled at him, she was handing him a beacon of hope to eternal happiness.

~THE END~


THE WAY I FEEL

Love is a gamble,
Messing with you is a game;
Without you,
love wouldn't be the same.
Where do I point the hand of blame
when I should be the one in shame.

The way you make me feel,
It's so unreal,
it's like a thrill;
Only God knows
how you make me feel.

~ Heather Batey ~

***

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.