Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

On that chilly night, the grand ballroom was filled with voices. It was indeed a cold evening, but inside the spacious room, where only a select few were allowed, the warmth of the celebration could be felt. The event was hosted by the Minister's son, celebrating the opening of his first business.

Jimin, wearing an elegant knee-length black dress, pretended to listen to the host’s speech, but her attention was clearly elsewhere. She whispered to her trusted confidant, her right-hand woman, and best friend, Minjeong.

“Ugh, this speech is so boring,” Jimin muttered, rolling her eyes. “Well, you can finally meet a lot of people here, including Isa,” Minjeong said with a small smile. “Did she come? I haven't seen her yet,” Jimin asked, glancing around. “She’s here. 9 o'clock,” Minjeong replied, nodding toward the direction.

There she was, standing near the corner in a one-shoulder dress with her bobbed black hair tucked behind her left ear. Isa’s presence commanded attention, her dominant yet feminine aura radiating effortlessly. Jimin’s gaze lingered on her, and Minjeong softened when she noticed. “At least you have something to do other than listening to the boring speech,” Minjeong teased. Jimin quickly looked away, flustered. “I was just curious about her.”
“Sure, Jimin,” Minjeong replied with a knowing smile.

.

Minjeong was still nibbling on her food when she suddenly felt a tap on her shoulder. Startled, she turned to find Isa standing behind her, a playful smile on her lips. “Winter, enjoying the food?” Isa greeted her, her voice warm and teasing as she gave Minjeong a light pat.

“Oh h-hi Isa. I didn’t see you there..You know how much I love food,” Minjeong replied with a polite smile, still recovering from the surprise. “But that’s not important right now. Come on, follow me. I think she’s by the fruit table... Ah, there she is.”

Minjeong led Isa toward Jimin, who was standing a little further away, talking to a group of people. Isa’s steps were confident as she walked beside Minjeong, her presence commanding attention even in a crowded room. The closer they got, the more the air seemed to shift. Jimin, who had been engaged in conversation, looked up and locked eyes with Isa.

Isa’s eyes softened slightly, and a faint smile tugged at her lips as she walked toward Jimin with graceful strides, effortlessly parting the crowd around her. She stopped just a few steps away from Jimin, her presence undeniable. With a confident, yet charming, demeanor, Isa extended her hand toward Jimin.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Karina Yu,” Isa said, her voice smooth, her smile warm.

Jimin’s gaze lingered for a moment before she reached out to shake Isa’s hand, a spark of interest in her eyes. “Finally meeting the famous Isa,” she replied, her eyes sparkling as she mirrored Isa’s gesture, her tone both intrigued and amused.

All eyes in the room turned toward them. The power, dominance, and alluring femininity of both women were undeniable. After all, Karina, also known as Jimin, was the most successful businesswoman and the biggest mafia leader in the land. Isa was a rising designer with an elite brand that was taking the market by storm. It was no surprise that they drew attention wherever they went.

Minjeong watched the two with a satisfied look on her face. She tapped her earpiece and spoke to Ryujin. “Mission accomplished.”

“Looks like Jimin’s interested too,” Ryujin replied with a knowing hum.

“Well, she better be,” Minjeong said, rolling her eyes. “And speaking of better, I’m starving. Go grab some food while you can.” Minjeong switched off her earpiece and made her way to the food table, her eyes quickly scanning the spread before she started piling food onto her plate.

_

Minjeong, or Winter as she was known to most, was often by Jimin’s side during meetings with important and influential people. Everyone in the country knew that Jimin had a trusted right-hand man—Minjeong. Only the closest of friends called them by their real names, Jimin and Minjeong. Outside of their personal circle, they were known as Karina and Winter.

Minjeong earned the nickname “Winter” for her cold demeanor. She was friendly only with those closest to her, and to everyone else, she was distant and often unapproachable. She was ruthless, especially when dealing with other mobsters. While Jimin may have been the boss, it was Minjeong who handled the darker, more dangerous side of the mafia, with help from Ryujin and others.

-

By midnight, most of the guests had left, including Jimin, who signaled for Minjeong to follow her. Minjeong, who had been waiting by the side of the room, rushed to catch up. She instructed Ryujin to meet them on the first floor.

“To be honest, Ryujin and I are just counting down the minutes until we can clock out and head home,” Minjeong said, casting a teasing glance at Jimin. “Especially since you’ll get to be alone with her for longer.”

Jimin raised an eyebrow, her lips curving into a playful smirk. “Oh, so you’re jealous now? Don’t worry, Minjeong. You don’t have to stay single forever. I’m always available,” she teased, her tone light yet full of mischief.

Minjeong’s response was quick and sharp. “No thanks. I’d rather stay single than deal with someone who thinks sarcasm is charming,” she replied, her tone dry but her expression unchanging.

Jimin laughed, her tone amused as she fell into step behind Minjeong. “Don’t you ever get bored of being alone? You might find hanging out with me a refreshing change.”
Minjeong didn’t bother replying, her pace steady as she led the way out of the building.

The three of them stepped outside, the cool night air brushing past them as they approached a sleek black car parked under the soft glow of the streetlights. Jimin slid into the back seat first, settling comfortably. Minjeong followed without a word, while Ryujin took the front passenger seat.

As the car pulled away, the city lights blurred past the windows. Jimin leaned back, a small, satisfied smile tugging at her lips as she glanced briefly at Minjeong. Meanwhile, Ryujin glanced back through the rearview mirror in silence.

Chapter Text

The Yu mansion was a symbol of power and elegance, owned by Jimin’s family. From the outside, it appeared as nothing more than a luxurious residence with big gardens and a pristine pool area. The mansion was surrounded by a tall, protective wall and fence, ensuring no one could easily see inside or get close without being noticed. Only trusted people could enter, keeping the mansion’s secrets hidden from the public.

The mansion's grand entrance hall welcomed visitors—mostly Jimin’s—with its towering ceilings, a grand chandelier, and a staircase leading to the upper floors. To the right, a formal living room offered an elegant space for entertaining guests. Next to it, the dining room, with its large windows overlooking the gardens, stood ready for high-profile gatherings. The kitchen was large, not just for regular use but also for private meetings when needed.

Upstairs, the mansion's upper floor served as a private sanctuary for Jimin and Minjeong. The Master Suite was designed for both comfort and privacy and consists of two bedrooms, each with its own bathroom. There was also a small kitchen and dining area where they could eat privately. A cozy living room connected their spaces, providing a peaceful space to relax. In one corner of the suite, a special table displayed framed photos of the Yu family, some with the Kim family and also all the mafia members. These photos weren’t just professional portraits but captured memories from vacations, celebrations, and quiet moments together, a reminder of the bonds they shared. Their private office was in this area, a place to handle personal business away from prying eyes. 

Nearby, Yeji's office served as the nerve center of their operations. As Jimin’s secretary and a trusted ally, Yeji handled the complex web of mafia dealings. Her office was full of computers and monitors, and it was connected to the Security Room, which was run by Ryujin, the head of security. The Security Room didn’t just monitor the mansion but controlled surveillance systems all over their territories, handled hacking operations, keeping track of everything and everyone.

But beneath the mansion was the real heart of their operations—the mafia headquarters. The headquarters was hidden from view, accessible through a secret door in the garage.

The meeting room was where Jimin and Minjeong met with their most trusted people to discuss mafia business. The armory was secured with biometric locks, storing an array of weapons and equipment. A soundproof interrogation room was used to get information from enemies, ensuring no outsider ever left with secrets.

For their members, the headquarters had 8–10 bedrooms, along with a shared living room, kitchen, and recreation area for comfort. But the most important part of the headquarters was the Practice and Defense Training Area. This space had everything the team needed to stay in shape and ready for any fight—punching bags, martial arts mats, and even a shooting range. Minjeong used to go to this area to train their members to fight and use weapons.

The mansion wasn’t just surrounded by beautiful gardens, it was surrounded by other properties that also belonged to the Yu family. The houses to the left, right, and behind the mansion were all part of their domain, each serving a specific purpose to maintain security and control. These houses had extra security and operatives, making sure no one could get close without being noticed.

—

Jimin woke up to the familiar aroma of freshly brewed coffee drifting through the room. Stretching lazily, she got out of bed and headed to the kitchen for a glass of water.

“Coffee, Jimin?” Minjeong’s voice greeted her, calm and steady as always. As usual, Minjeong was already up, having prepared coffee and breakfast for the two of them.

When they had first moved into the mansion, Jimin had objected to Minjeong taking on such tasks. “You don’t have to do this,” she’d said back then, reluctant to let her friend shoulder any unnecessary burden. But Minjeong had been insistent, brushing off Jimin’s concerns. “I like cooking,” she’d replied simply, her tone leaving no room for argument. Jimin had eventually relented, and truth be told, Minjeong’s cooking was excellent.

Jimin gulped down her water before nodding toward the coffee. Minjeong handed her a steaming cup, and Jimin offered a warm smile. “Thanks,” she said sincerely. Minjeong set down a plate of waffles on the table. They sat together, the soft clinking of cutlery filling the cozy kitchen. 

They ate quietly for a moment before Minjeong spoke, breaking the silence. “I’ll be heading south today. There’s been some trouble with a group in that area.” 

Jimin frowned, setting down her fork. “Again? I thought we sorted that out months ago.” “So did I,” Minjeong replied, cutting into her waffle. “But according to Yeji and Ryujin, they’re demanding money. Likely new leadership, and they don’t understand how things work yet.” 

Jimin rolled her eyes. “It’s always something with these groups. How long do you think it’ll take?” “Three days, maximum,” Minjeong said after a moment’s thought. 

Jimin nodded, her expression softening as she reached across the table to place a hand on Minjeong’s. “Be careful, alright?”  Minjeong glanced up and nodded. “I will.”

They continued eating in companionable silence, a quiet rhythm that had long become second nature to them.

.

Later that morning, Jimin emerged from her room dressed sharply in a tailored suit. Her confident, commanding aura seemed to fill the space. Meanwhile, Minjeong lounged on the sofa, flipping through TV channels as if she didn’t have a mission in a few hours.

As Jimin straightened her blazer, preparing to leave for work, she paused by the kitchen counter. “Oh, by the way,” she began, a hint of excitement in her tone, “there’s this new café on Edelweiss Street. Ningning mentioned their croissants are amazing. I’m thinking of stopping by when I have time.” 

Minjeong, lounging on the sofa, glanced over with a teasing smirk. “Look at you, Ms. Busy CEO, planning croissant runs. Let’s hope your schedule allows it.” Jimin let out a soft laugh, brushing her hair back as she grabbed her bag. “I wish I could go today, but...” She hesitated, a small smile curving her lips as she recalled the previous evening. “I have a date tonight.”

Minjeong raised an eyebrow, setting her phone aside. “A date? With Isa?”

Jimin nodded, her cheeks flushing slightly. “Yeah. She’s... nice. I had a really good time last night, and I’d like to get to know her better.” “Well, that’s awesome,” Minjeong said, her grin widening. “That date is definitely worth missing out on a croissant.”

Jimin chuckled softly. “Let’s see how it goes. It’s still early, but I do enjoy her company.” “And that’s a solid first step,” Minjeong said, giving her a playful thumbs-up.

Their conversation was interrupted by the vibration of Minjeong’s phone. She glanced at the screen and answered the call. “Ryujin?” On the other end, Ryujin informed her that the team needed to be ready in two hours for their mission. Minjeong listened carefully, nodding as she took mental notes.

Jimin gave her a quick pat on the shoulder before mouthing, “I’m heading to the office.” Minjeong nodded, her attention still on the phone. As Jimin left the mansion, Minjeong leaned back into the sofa, her expression calm and unreadable as she continued her call with Ryujin.

Chapter Text

Minjeong, dressed in her black coat, headed downstairs with her usual calm demeanor. Her footsteps echoed in the hallway as she approached the armory, where her team was making final preparations. Each member had their weapons being checked and secured, strategies reviewed. Minjeong made her way to the corner, where her signature weapon waited—her sledgehammer.

It was a sight to behold: 90 centimeters long, with a steel head polished to perfection. The head, forged from durable steel, was paired with a hickory handle stiffen with titanium, making it unbreakable. She lifted it effortlessly, the weight familiar in her hands.

Sledgehammers weren’t an easy weapon to master; their weight and balance made them difficult to wield effectively. But Minjeong had mastered it over years of practice. She’d chosen the sledgehammer for a reason—it was the first weapon she had ever used in a real fight, the weapon she had instinctively picked up during one of the darkest moments of her life.

Years ago, Jimin was kidnapped during school time. Minjeong had tracked the culprit to an abandoned building. Driven by desperation and rage, she found a broken sledgehammer on the ground and used it to strike the man in the back just as he tried to touch Jimin. It was the first time she’d ever harmed—or perhaps killed—someone. She does not give a single fuck about that man, Jimin’s father handled the aftermath. For Minjeong, one thing was clear: she wouldn’t let anyone lay hands on Jimin.

Her reputation grew from that moment, earning her the nickname "Winter." Much like the season, she was cold, relentless and efficient, showing no hesitation in destroying those who stood against her. And, like her chosen weapon, she was made for destruction.

.

Once tactics were finalized and positions were assigned, Minjeong and her team left the Yu Mansion. The roar of car engines filled the air as the convoy of sleek black vehicles sped through the gates. Minjeong drove alone in her car, her weapon resting by her side.

When they arrived at the target location, Minjeong led the charge. Three men stood guard at the entrance, their expressions hardening as the team approached.

“We want to see your boss,” Minjeong said, her tone steady, her face unreadable.

“Who are you?” one of the guards asked, his voice laced with suspicion. “Z-ON,” Yujin replied curtly, her sharp gaze fixed on the man.

The guards exchanged nervous glances. The name alone carried enough weight to send shivers down their spines. Z-ON was the largest mafia syndicate in the country, and everyone knew better than to cross them.

“We can’t let so many of you—”

“I don’t have time for this,” Minjeong interrupted, signaling to her team with a subtle nod. Before the guards could react, Minjeong’s team moved in swiftly, subduing them without hesitation. The remaining guard, visibly shaken, raised his hands. “O-okay, this way,” he stammered, leading them inside.

The local mafia boss, sat in a dimly lit room, a cigarette between his fingers. The door slammed open, and Minjeong stepped inside, flanked by her team. She strode toward the man, her sledgehammer resting casually against her shoulder, her icy demeanor filling the room with tension.

“I’m Winter,” she said coldly. “And these are my associates from Z-ON. And you are?”

He froze, his eyes darting to the three black cars visible through the window. He cursed under his breath, silently blaming his incompetent guards. “Igor,” he answered, trying to maintain composure.

Minjeong’s voice cut through the air like a blade. “Let’s cut the crap. My team tells me you’ve been causing trouble for our business here.” 

“I’m new here,” Igor answered, visibly sweating. “I was told to stir things up in this area, but I didn’t know it was Z-ON territory.”

Minjeong’s gaze narrowed. “Who told you to do it?”

“I don’t know!” Igor exclaimed, his voice trembling. “They just recruited me. I had no choice but to obey!”

Minjeong took a slow step forward, the sound of her sledgehammer dragging against the floor filling the room. 

“Don’t mess with us,” Minjeong said coldly. “I can destroy you, your men, and this entire building if I have to.” She turned her gaze to the other guards in the room, who froze under her sharp glare.

“But if you cooperate, if you give us information and stay in line, you might just survive.”

Igor swallowed hard and nodded quickly.

“Are we clear, Igor?” Minjeong asked, her tone icy and calm as her piercing gaze bore into him.

He nodded again, his voice caught in his throat.

“I SAID, ARE WE CLEAR?” Minjeong’s voice thundered through the room, her expression sharp as she leaned closer, the sledgehammer resting menacingly against her shoulder.

“Y-yes! Crystal clear!” Igor stammered, his words tumbling out in a panic.

Minjeong straightened up, her expression unchanged as she gestured to the sofa in the corner of the room, then she sat down. “Good. Now, we need every piece of information you have about those people, how they look like, how many of them—everything.” Her voice was steady but full of authority that left no room for negotiation.

Igor tried to compose himself, but the beads of sweat on his forehead betrayed him. “S-sure,” he managed to say, though his hands trembled slightly. “I-I’ll give you everything I know.”

The room fell silent for a moment as Minjeong stared at him, her expression unreadable. “Yujin, you may start working,” Minjeong commanded. She leaned back against the sofa, resting the head of her sledgehammer lightly on the ground, her fingers curling around the handle in a way that made it clear she wasn’t done intimidating Igor.

Yujin, the team leader, wasted no time. She moved efficiently, signaling to her team to set up the necessary tools. A sleek black case was opened, revealing a portable lie detector, a high-resolution camera, and a sound recording device. “Get everything calibrated,” she ordered briskly, her team nodding as they swiftly got to work.

Within moments, the room was transformed into a temporary interrogation setup. The lie detector was placed on the table, wires ready to be attached, while the camera was positioned to capture every angle of Igor’s increasingly nervous face.

Yujin pulled up a chair, sitting across from Igor with an air of casual confidence. Her posture was relaxed, but the look in her eyes was anything but. She gestured toward one of her team members, who stood silently to her left, holding a loaded gun. “Alright, Igor,” she began, her voice sharp but with a teasing edge, “calm down and tell us the truth. If you don’t, my friend here will happily put a bullet in you.”

The man holding the gun didn’t flinch, his steely gaze locked on Igor. The click of the safety being turned off echoed ominously in the small room, causing Igor to jerk slightly in his chair.

Yujin leaned forward, a smirk tugging at her lips as she added, “But, honestly? That would be the easy way out for you. If you’re really unlucky, you’ll get kissed by the sledgehammer.” She tilted her head toward Minjeong, who was sitting just a few steps away.

Minjeong’s unimpressed gaze was fixed on Igor, her grip on the sledgehammer tightening slightly as if to make a point. The dull metallic sound of the hammer’s head shifting against the floor made Igor visibly flinch.

“You know,” Yujin continued, her tone almost playful now, “I’ve seen Winter do some... creative things with that hammer of hers. Trust me, you’d rather deal with the bullet.”

Igor swallowed hard, his eyes darting between Yujin and Minjeong, sweat dripping down his temple.

“Let’s not waste time,” Yujin said sharply, snapping her fingers to grab his attention. “Strap him in and get this over with.”

Her team moved in sync, attaching the lie detector’s wires to Igor’s trembling hands and ensuring everything was functioning properly. Yujin gave the equipment a final glance, then turned her attention back to Igor.

“Alright,” Yujin said, her smirk fading as her expression turned serious. “We’re going to ask some questions, and you’re going to answer truthfully. If you lie, we’ll know. And if you lie twice…” She paused, her eyes flickering to Minjeong, who gave Igor a cold look.

Yujin leaned her body forward while resting her elbows on her thighs. “Let’s begin, shall we?” she said sharply, her voice cutting through the tension in the room like a blade.

.

A short while later, Minjeong and her team left the building. Igor exhaled deeply, slumping in his chair. The interrogation may have only lasted minutes, but to him, it felt like hours. His life had hung by a thread the entire time.

As they rushed back to their cars, Minjeong turned to Yujin. “Did you record everything?” Yujin nodded. “Yes, but his answers were vague. We’ll need Ryujin’s team to dig deeper.”

Minjeong’s expression hardened. “We will. And Igor knows what will happen if he tries anything stupid.” She patted Yujin on the shoulder before heading to her car.

“Good work today. Stay alert and get home safely, everyone” Minjeong said to her team. 

After ensuring her team departed safely, Minjeong climbed into her car. She watched their vehicles disappear down the road before starting her engine and driving in the opposite direction.

Jimin returned to the Yu Mansion, a small smile playing on her lips as she thought about her date with Isa. The evening had gone well—the food was excellent, and Isa looked stunning. Jimin texted Isa to let her know she was home safely, still feeling a pleasant warmth from their time together.

As she entered the mansion, Jimin spotted Ryujin and Yujin in the hallway, deep in conversation. She approached them, curiosity flashing in her eyes.

“Jimin,” Yujin greeted her with a slight bow.

Jimin rolled her eyes playfully. “You don’t have to be so formal, Yujin. How did the mission go? Everyone okay?”

“Minjeong handled it well, as usual,” Yujin replied with a smile. “But there’s still more to investigate. Ryujin’s team will handle it tomorrow.”

Jimin nodded. “Good. Make sure you rest and eat. You’ve done enough for today.”

Yujin smiled and excused herself, leaving Jimin alone with Ryujin.

“So... someone’s in a good mood,” Ryujin teased, noticing Jimin’s lingering smile.

“What? No, I’m not,” Jimin replied defensively, her cheeks turning pink.

Ryujin smirked knowingly. “Sure, sure. Must’ve been one hilarious text message you were reading earlier.”

Jimin ignored her, heading toward her room. “Whatever,” she called back, unable to hide the grin on her face.

.

As she closed her door, her thoughts drifted to Minjeong. Jimin knew better than to ask Ryujin about Minjeong’s whereabouts after a mission, especially one that took place outside the city. The last time she had asked, three years ago, Ryujin had given her a pointed look before saying, “It’s how she copes. Just let it go, Jimin.”

At the time, Jimin couldn’t understand. She had been frustrated and worried, wondering why Minjeong often chose to linger after completing her missions. Most operatives returned immediately to the safety of the mansion, but not Minjeong. Even though Winter was infamous for her ruthlessness and had a reputation that struck fear into the hearts of the underground, Jimin couldn’t shake her concern. Missions outside the city were different—Z-ON’s power was unmatched in their home territory, but venturing into other regions always carried more risks.

Jimin remembered how she used to bombard Ryujin with questions. “What if something happens to her? What if she gets ambushed? Shouldn’t she stay with the team?” But Ryujin’s response had been unwavering. “You don’t need to worry about Minjeong. She’s tougher than anyone out there. I think she just need some space.”

So now, when Minjeong chose to take an extra day after an out-of-town mission, Jimin didn’t push. She didn’t question it or ask Ryujin for updates. But that didn’t mean Jimin stopped worrying. They had already lost too much. Minjeong was all she had left, and she couldn’t bear to lose her too.

Chapter Text

As the sun climbed higher in the sky, its heat pressing against the streets, Minjeong left her hotel and started head back home. Hours passed before her car screen lit up with an incoming call. It was Ryujin.

“Sup, bro?” Minjeong answered casually, her gaze fixed on the road ahead.

“Hey, where are you?”

“On my way home. What's going on?”

Ryujin’s voice came through, a little rushed. “So, Yeji and I were planning to check on the other units in the city, but we just got word everything's already cleared. Oh, and Jimin found out we were heading out and—”

“She asked you to get croissants,” Minjeong cut in, a smirk tugging at her lips.

Ryujin chuckled. “Oh, you already know?”

“No, I'm just guessing. She hasn’t stopped blabbering about those croissants lately. Let me guess—you’re about to ask me to grab them instead since I’m closer.”

“You know me too well. Can I count on you, mate?”

Minjeong rolled her eyes, though her lips twitched in amusement. “Yeah, fine. Whatever.”

“Thanks, MJ. Safe drive!” Ryujin ended the call with a grin that Minjeong could practically hear.

...

A short while later, Minjeong arrived on Edelweiss Street. Her eyes scanned the area until she spotted the quaint café on the left side of the road. The shop’s sign, Coffree , stood out modestly against the row of storefronts. As she stepped inside, the gentle chime of the bell announced her arrival. Since it’s the mid-afternoon, the café is nearly empty. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and pastries enveloped her, a comforting scent that stirred a rare sense of calm within her. Minjeong approached the counter, where an assortment of pastries was displayed behind polished glass. Before she could say anything, a young woman appeared.

“Welcome to Coffree! What can I get started for you today?”

Minjeong looked up, momentarily caught off guard. The woman was tall, with a long brown hair and a mole just below her right eye. She exuded an effortless beauty that made Minjeong pause, her gaze flicking briefly to the name tag: Wonyoung .

“Uh, yeah,” Minjeong cleared her throat, recovering quickly. “I heard your croissants are the best. Do you still have any?”

Wonyoung chuckled sweetly, the sound light and melodic. “Of course! But they’re super popular, and we’re out right now. We’ve got a fresh batch baking, though—if you don’t mind waiting a few minutes?”

“Sure, I can wait.”

“Great! While you wait, would you like anything else?”

Minjeong glanced at the display case, her eyes briefly lingering on a slice of black forest cake. “A regular Americano and one slice of black forest, please.”

“Noted! And your name?”

“MJ.”

Wonyoung repeated the name, her smile widening. “MJ. Got it. We’ll bring your order to your table—feel free to sit wherever you like.”

Minjeong chose a seat near the counter, one that offered a clear view of the cafe’s interior without feeling too exposed. The male waiter soon approached, carefully balancing her order on a small tray. “One Americano and a slice of Black Forest cake. Please enjoy,” he said with a polite smile as he placed the items in front of her.

“Thanks,” Minjeong murmured, her gaze briefly meeting his before drifting toward the window.

The street outside was alive with the rhythm of daily life: cars rolling by, pedestrians chatting as they strolled, and a child tugging at their mother’s hand near a crosswalk. For a moment, Minjeong simply watched, feeling herself relax. The muted hum of the city paired with the soft jazz playing in the cafe created a peaceful atmosphere, something she hadn’t realized she needed until now. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the faint sweetness of pastries hung in the air, comforting and grounding. She took a small sip of her Americano, the bitterness awakening her senses, and followed it with a forkful of the Black Forest cake. It was rare for her to have moments like this, where she could just sit, breathe, and do nothing. I should do this more often, she thought, leaning back in her chair.

Her moment of calm was interrupted by the faint sound of clattering metal from behind the counter. Turning her head instinctively, she noticed a spacious prep station set up behind a large glass divider. The station served as both a functional workspace and a kind of showpiece for customers to watch the pastry-making process. Wonyoung stood at the counter, her brown hair tied back in a loose ponytail, strands of it catching the light from the hanging lamps above. She was focused, rolling out a sheet of dough with practiced precision. Minjeong’s eyes lingered on her movements as she dusted the surface with flour, folding and cutting the dough into perfect triangles. Her fingers moved with a grace and rhythm that was almost hypnotic, and Minjeong found herself captivated, like a curious puppy.

Wonyoung worked with quiet efficiency, occasionally pausing to adjust the temperature on the oven or sprinkle toppings onto freshly made pastries. Minjeong’s gaze remained fixed, her Americano forgotten as she observed the process. Unbeknownst to her, Wonyoung had noticed the attention. She glanced up briefly and caught Minjeong staring, her expression one of unguarded curiosity. A small smile tugged at Wonyoung’s lips, but she didn’t say anything, choosing instead to focus on cutting another batch of croissant dough. Minjeong, suddenly realizing she’d been caught, looked away hastily and busied herself with her coffee. Her cheeks felt slightly warm, though she wasn’t entirely sure why.

A few minutes later, the same waiter who had delivered her order returned to her table, carrying a small paper bag. “Here are your croissants, freshly baked,” he said as he set the bag down.

Minjeong nodded in thanks and stood up, pulling out her wallet to pay at the counter. As she approached, Wonyoung glanced up from her station, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face.

“Thanks for stopping by,” Wonyoung said, her voice light and friendly. Her smile was effortless, but it carried a warmth that made Minjeong pause for just a second. Wonyoung said warmly. “I hope you enjoy the croissants. See you soon?”

Minjeong gave her a small smile, nodding once. “Yeah, maybe.” As she stepped out onto the street, Minjeong couldn’t shake the odd sense of calm the cafe had given her.

...

Jimin was sprawled on the couch, lazily scrolling through social media when Minjeong walked in. A paper bag hung from Minjeong’s fingers, and Jimin’s eyes lit up the second she noticed it.

“Oh my god—you brought the croissants?!” Jimin practically leapt off the couch and rushed over to grab the bag.

Minjeong chuckled at her enthusiasm. “Yeah. The café’s pretty nice.”

“Hold on,” Jimin said, pausing mid-snatch. “Wasn’t Ryujin supposed to get these?”

“They canceled and called me while I was driving home,” Minjeong replied, setting her things down.

“Ugh, typical,” Jimin muttered, pulling the bag open. Then, glancing up at Minjeong, she added, “I hope it wasn’t too much trouble, though. You’ve been busy and all—”

“It’s fine,” Minjeong cut in with a small shrug. “Honestly, the café was nice. Smelled like coffee and pastries—it’s kind of relaxing after everything yesterday.”

Jimin hummed in agreement as she pulled out a croissant and took a bite. Her eyes fluttering shut as she sank back onto the couch. “Oh my god. This is so good!

Without missing a beat, she grabbed her phone and snapped a quick photo. “Ningning needs to see this,” she mumbled through a mouthful, tapping away to send the picture.

She tore off a piece and held it out to Minjeong. “Here, try it.”

Minjeong took the piece and popped it into her mouth. She chewed slowly, nodding. “Okay, you weren’t kidding. This is good ”

“Told you,” Jimin said with a smug grin, already reaching for her second one.

Chapter Text

The next morning, Jimin woke to the smell of toast floating through the air. She rolling out of bed and heading to the bathroom. When she emerged, she found Minjeong standing by the counter in the kitchen, her back turned as she worked. The sight stopped Jimin in her tracks. Minjeong moved with a natural ease, her movements efficient but unhurried, as she plated toast and poured coffee into two cups.

It struck Jimin in a way she hadn’t expected. The scene was nostalgic—achingly so. It reminded her of the times they would help their mother in the kitchen, back when life was simpler. For a moment, she felt a lump rise in her throat, her chest tightening with the kind of longing that caught her off guard. She blinked rapidly, forcing away the tears threatening to spill.

Gathering herself, Jimin walked into the living room, where their modest dining area was set up. Minjeong didn’t turn to look but somehow knew she was there. “Morning,” Minjeong greeted, her tone soft but steady.

“Morning, Minjeong,” Jimin replied, her voice still carrying a hint of sleep. She grabbed one of the mugs, wrapping her hands around it to let the warmth seep into her palms.

Minjeong moved to the table, setting down two plates. “Thank you, Minjeong,” she said sincerely, her words accompanied by a faint but warm smile.

They ate in silence, the sound of their forks lightly scraping the plates occasionally breaking the stillness. They were both lost in their thoughts.

Minjeong’s mind wandered back to the cafe she had visited a few days ago. There was something about it that lingered in her memory. Maybe it was the cozy atmosphere, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, or the desserts that perfectly matched her sweet tooth. Or maybe it was something—or someone—else. She dismissed the thought quickly, convincing herself it was probably just the desserts.

...

Later that morning, Jimin was nearly ready to leave for the office when Ryujin appeared in the doorway. “Hey, do you have time for a quick meeting about the last mission?”

Jimin sighed, shoving her hands into her blazer pockets. “Alright. I’ll text Ningning to let her know I’ll be late.”

The two walked together to the meeting room at the Z-ON headquarters. Jimin gave the operators they passed a small nod and faint smile, as she rarely interacted with them. Once inside, Ryujin began explaining the findings from their recent investigation.

“I’ve been digging into Igor’s background,” Ryujin began, tapping on a tablet displaying a web of connections. “I’ve been looking into the people he’s interacted with. There are a few suspects I’m keeping an eye on, but the person he mentioned during his conversation with you… There’s no trace of them in any database. Whoever they are, they’ve erased themselves completely. If they can hide this well, we’re not dealing with just anyone.”

Minjeong’s jaw tightened, her knuckles brushing against the edge of the table. Too many people close to her had died because of situations like this.

Ryujin hesitated before continuing. “We haven’t seen this level of activity for the last two years—unless…”

“It’s connected to Taemin’s death,” Minjeong cut in, her voice calm but icy.

Jimin swallowed hard, the anxiety in her chest swelling. The weight of the lives lost—lives connected to her—pressed down heavily. She straightened in her chair, trying to maintain composure. “Ryujin,” she said, her tone firm, “I want you to monitor the people you’re already suspicious of. And keep an eye on Igor. I don’t want any gaps in our surveillance.”

Ryujin nodded. “Understood. Minjeong, your thoughts?”

Minjeong leaned back slightly, her sharp mind working through the possibilities. “It’s likely bigger than we’re seeing now, especially if it ties back to what happened three years ago. But we shouldn’t overreact yet. We need to strengthen our security across all our bases and revisit everyone who was involved back then. We’ll find something—it’s only a matter of time.”

...

The meeting had ended hours ago, but Jimin remained in the living room, slumped in the sofa, her thoughts spiraling.

Minjeong, fresh from a shower. Her gray shirt and black pants gave her a casual, effortless look as she poured herself a cup of coffee. She paused when she noticed Jimin hadn’t moved from her seat.

“Hey,” Minjeong said softly as she approached, sitting next to her. “No need to worry. I’ll make sure this doesn’t happen again. We’ve gained allies across the country, and I trust Ryujin to keep a close watch.”

Jimin let out a heavy sigh, her fingers tapping lightly on the table. “I know that. I do. It’s just… I can’t help it. My mind keeps running, like always.” She glanced at Minjeong, her lips quirking into a half-smile. “You know how I am.”

Minjeong tilted her head slightly, her eyes steady. “You don’t have to go to the office today, Jimin. Take a day to clear your mind.”

Jimin shook her head, standing up and grabbing her bag. “No. If I stay here, I’ll overthink everything. It’s better to focus on work.”

Minjeong watched her for a moment, then nodded. “Alright. Just… take care of yourself.”

Jimin smiled faintly, a flicker of gratitude in her eyes. “I will.”

Jimin walked toward her office, her heels clicking against the polished floor. The air around her was tense, her mind heavy with thoughts of the latest Z-ON meeting. The unresolved matters, Ryujin’s findings, and Minjeong’s theories about Igor and the past events swirled in her head like a storm. She tried to push it all aside, focusing instead on the pressing matter at hand—a crucial meeting with government officials to finalize a deal with Yu Company.

Her temples throbbed with the weight of responsibility. It was one of those days where everything seemed to pile up, leaving her feeling stretched thin. As she neared her office, Ningning approached her with a folder in hand, clearly about to discuss something important.

Jimin raised a hand to stop her. “Ningning,” she said, her voice carrying a note of exhaustion, “give me ten minutes. Maximum. I just need a moment to clear my head.”

Ningning hesitated, taking in Jimin’s tired expression. Her sharp features were softened, and the way she rubbed at her temple hinted at how close she was to snapping. “Sure, take your time,” Ningning said softly, her tone laced with understanding.

Jimin gave her a small nod of thanks and stepped into her office. She made her way to the plush sofa near the window and sank into it, letting out a deep sigh. The sunlight streaming through the glass painted warm patterns on the floor, but it did little to soothe her racing thoughts. She leaned back, staring at the ceiling, trying to ground herself in the stillness of the room.

Minutes passed, and just as she felt herself slipping further into her thoughts, her phone buzzed on the coffee table. She picked it up, the screen lighting up with two new messages. They were from Isa.

The first message read, “Good luck today, boss! You’ll crush it!”

The second was her pictures—Isa smiling brightly, her hair loose and glowing in the sunlight, her expression warm and encouraging. Jimin couldn’t help the small smile that crept onto her lips. Isa’s playful energy and unshakable confidence always had a way of lightening her mood.

Jimin quickly typed back a response. “Thanks, Isa. I needed this. You look amazing, as always.” She added a heart and smiley face emoji before sending the message. Her shoulders relaxed slightly, the tension ebbing away just a bit. Isa’s message gave her the boost she needed to power through the day ahead.

...

Once the preparations and administrative details were finalized, Jimin and Ningning made their way to the government building with their driver. The drive was quiet, but the air inside the car felt charged. Ningning glanced at Jimin, noting how her boss’s jaw tightened slightly, her eyes fixed ahead, already strategizing her approach to the meeting.

When they arrived at the grand, imposing structure, they were escorted to a conference room where the government officials awaited them. The representatives from Yu Company were also present, their sharp suits and calculated expressions making it clear they were here to negotiate hard.

Jimin took her seat at the long table, her posture regal and commanding, with Ningning by her side, ready to assist. As the discussion began, it became immediately clear that this wasn’t going to be a smooth meeting. The lead government official, an older man with a condescending tone, repeatedly interrupted her points and attempted to steer the conversation away from the terms she had laid out.

Jimin’s irritation simmered beneath the surface. She could feel the subtle digs aimed at her—remarks disguised as “lighthearted” jokes about her being a woman in a position of power.

But Jimin wasn’t someone to be underestimated, and certainly not someone to let such behavior slide. She sat back in her chair, her fingers interlocking as she stared them down, her gaze sharp and unyielding. The room seemed to still under the weight of her presence.

When the official tried once again to undermine her, Jimin finally spoke, her tone calm but cutting. “Gentlemen,” she began, her voice steady, “I hope you understand the importance of this deal—not just for your office, but for the people it will impact. I came here prepared to negotiate in good faith, but if you’d prefer to waste time with outdated prejudices, then perhaps we should reconsider who we’re doing business with.”

Her words were like a thunderclap, leaving the men across the table stunned into silence. Ningning glanced at her boss, a small, satisfied smirk forming on her lips.

Jimin leaned forward slightly, her voice firm but composed. “I suggest we focus on the terms at hand. Because while you may not take me seriously now, I can assure you that walking away from this deal would be a far greater loss for your office than for mine.”

The officials exchanged uneasy glances, clearly caught off guard. Jimin’s reputation as a powerful negotiator and a dominant force in the business world was well known, but it seemed they had underestimated just how sharp and unrelenting she could be.

From that moment on, the tone of the meeting shifted. The men spoke with a newfound respect—or at least caution—choosing their words more carefully.

By the time the meeting concluded, Jimin had successfully negotiated favorable terms for the deal. As she walked out of the building with Ningning, her heels echoing against the marble floors, she allowed herself a small, victorious smile.

“Classic Karina,” Ningning said quietly, unable to hide the admiration in her voice. “You really put them in their place.”

Jimin glanced at her with a raised brow, a hint of amusement dancing in her eyes. “It’s not about putting people in their place, Ningning. It’s about reminding them that I’m already in mine.”

Chapter Text

Minjeong stood in the center of the training room, her sharp gaze scanning the young recruits gathered before her. Some shifted nervously, gripping their wooden practice knives, while others adjusted their footing, trying to look confident. “Listen up,” Minjeong began, her voice steady and firm. “Defense isn’t about being the strongest. It’s about being smart, quick, and using your opponent’s strength against them.” She demonstrated a simple defensive stance, her movements precise and fluid, before motioning to one of the recruits. “Come at me,” she instructed calmly.

The young man hesitated before lunging forward. In one smooth motion, Minjeong sidestepped, twisted their arm, and disarmed them effortlessly. “See?” she said, letting go. “It’s about timing, not force. Anticipate their next move, and act.” She spent the next hour breaking down techniques step by step—how to break free from a hold, disarm an attacker, and stay in control even in a vulnerable position. Yujin assisted her, demonstrating more advanced moves and encouraging the recruits to keep pushing through. Together, they made an effective team, alternating roles between attacker and defender while making sure everyone could follow along. 

One recruit, Minji, struggled to keep up with the exercises. Her footing was unsteady, and frustration was clear on her face as she tried to repeat the moves. Noticing this, Minjeong crouched beside her, speaking in a quieter, softer tone. “You don’t need to get it perfect right away,” she reassured. “Take it one step at a time. It’s about progress, not perfection.” Minji looked at Minjeong, surprised by her patience and the calm encouragement in her voice. With renewed determination, she nodded and tried again, this time feeling a little more confident. Yujin, standing nearby, added with a grin, “Trust me, Minjeong’s tips work. She’s made me eat dirt in sparring plenty of times.” The recruits laughed, easing the tension in the room.

By the end of the session, everyone was visibly tired but sharper in their movements. Minji, in particular, felt proud of herself for improving, even if only a little. Minjeong stood with her arms crossed, nodding in approval as she addressed the group. “Good work today. Keep practicing, and it’ll become second nature.” As the recruits began to leave, Minji lingered, watching Minjeong from a distance. She admired Minjeong’s quiet confidence and how her reassurance had motivated her to keep going.

...

Minjeong had been wanting to visit the café again but didn’t want to seem like some weirdo that showing up every day. So, she decided to limit herself to three visits a week. And now, here she was, sitting at the same table as before, where she could get a clear view of the pastry station.

Wonyoung noticed her immediately, smiling as she caught Minjeong watching her knead dough. “You seem really into this baking stuff, MJ,” Wonyoung teased, her tone light. Minjeong, startled, nearly dropped her coffee. She never thought she could hear her voice through a glass that divided them. Her face flushed. “Oh, sorry. I was just curious,” she mumbled, quickly averting her gaze to her cup.

Wonyoung giggled softly. “Relax, it’s fine. It’s just that most curious ones are little kids. The rest of our customers are either buried in work, hanging out with friends, or here just for the coffee and pastries. But you? You’re different.” 

Minjeong glanced back at the dough Wonyoung was kneading, then back at her coffee. “I guess I just wanted to unwind. My job is... intense. Coming here to smell the coffee, enjoy the pastries, and watch you—work on the pastries, it’s calming.” Wonyoung’s cheeks turned pink at the unexpected compliment, but she quickly shook it off and focused on sliding the pastries into the oven.

The café wasn’t too crowded today. Once Wonyoung finished her task, she let one of her coworkers take over and strolled over to Minjeong’s table. “Mind if I sit here?” she asked.

Minjeong turned toward her, surprised. “Is it your break time or something?”

“Not exactly. The café’s quiet, so I’ve got some free time. But hey, if it’s a bother—”

“No, no, it’s fine!” Minjeong cut in, waving her hand. “I just don’t want you getting in trouble.”

Minjeong wasn’t usually one to strike up conversations, but there was something about Wonyoung that put her at ease. They talked, or rather, Wonyoung talked while Minjeong mostly listened. Wonyoung shared how the café was her uncle’s and how she had worked hard to save it from shutting down by introducing new ideas and using social media to bring in customers.

“But,” Wonyoung continued with a small sigh, “I’ve been thinking about leaving the city to start my own café somewhere quieter. This place can get... overwhelming, you know?”

Minjeong’s eyebrows furrowed. “Really? But things seem to be going well here.”

“Yeah, but it’s my uncle’s business, not mine. I want to build something for myself. Somewhere less chaotic than this city.”

Minjeong nodded thoughtfully. “I get that,” she murmured, her gaze drifting toward the window.

Wonyoung excused herself to return to work, leaving Minjeong alone with her thoughts.

Later that day, Minjeong walked into her shared apartment to find Jimin sprawled on the couch, flipping channels on the TV. She placed a small package on the table between their couches and sat down, pulling out her phone.

“For you,” she said casually. Jimin’s eyes widened. “For me?” She sat up, clearly surprised.

“Yeah. I passed by earlier, and it reminded me of you. So I thought, why not?” Minjeong shrugged.

Jimin grinned, immediately tearing into the package. “Awww, aren’t you sweet,” she cooed, throwing in a playful aegyo. Minjeong rolled her eyes but said nothing, ignoring Jimin’s antics.

“Thanks, Minjeongie!” Jimin said between bites, her attention already back on the TV. Minjeong hummed in response, scrolling through her phone.

...

A while later, Minjeong had just finished showering when Jimin emerged from her room, dressed in a leather jacket and jeans, her hair loose around her shoulders. She was busy typing something on her phone.

“I’m heading out for dinner,” Jimin announced. “Alright. Have fun,” Minjeong teased with a knowing smirk. Jimin waved her off, grabbing her bag as she headed out the door.

Left alone, Minjeong turned off the TV and made her way downstairs to find Ryujin. She found her lounging on the couch, sipping coffee. Ryujin glanced up. “She’s on another date, huh?”

“Hopefully,” Minjeong replied with a grin as she sat down beside her.

They talked about work for a bit before Ryujin leaned back and said, “You know, you’ve been looking a lot more relaxed lately.”

Minjeong frowned. “Huh? Relaxed?”

“Yeah, like... brighter, I guess. Did something good happen?” Ryujin smirked, her tone teasing.

Minjeong rolled her eyes. “Nah, nothing like that.”

“Uh-huh, sure,” Ryujin replied with a knowing look, taking another sip of her coffee.

Chapter Text

Minjeong stood at the edge of the dock, her hands stuffed into the pockets of her jacket as the night air whipped around her. The salty breeze carried the hum of waves and the occasional shouts from the crew unloading goods from the ship. She was there to oversee the transport, ensuring everything went smoothly, especially with the lingering tension from her mission involving Igor. But tonight, her thoughts were elsewhere.

She trusted Yujin to handle the logistics without a hitch. Her gaze lingered on the dark, restless sea, but her thoughts had strayed far from the operation. They circled back to the café, to the pastry chef whose conversations had unexpectedly become a quiet solace.

It wasn’t just the pastries or the coffee that drew her back each time. The chef had a way of sharing stories—about her experiences, new places she’d visited, or even how she came up with new pastry ideas—that sparked something in Minjeong. For the first time in what felt like forever, she felt a flicker of purpose. Each exchange made her curious, pulling her into a world so different from her own. There was something in those conversations—a sense of ease, of being seen without judgment—that felt grounding in ways Minjeong hadn’t experienced in a long time.

But tonight, the memory of a song that played in the café earlier lingered in her mind. The tune is quite comforting but the lyrics...it was bittersweet, like it carried pieces of her past she’d buried deep. The melody stirred something deep inside her, and she sighed heavily, closing her eyes as the salty breeze brushing against her skin.

For the first time in years, Minjeong felt a small spark of determination. There was a plan she’d given up on long ago, but lately, it had been creeping back into her thoughts. She didn’t know where or how to begin, but for the first time Minjeong was willing to try. Maybe, just maybe, the time had finally come.

From a distance, Minji watched Minjeong quietly. It was unlike her to stay so detached during a mission, but tonight, she hadn’t even glanced at the inventory or the crew. Yujin said she probably needed space, and Minji didn’t question it further. Still, she couldn’t help but wonder what weighed so heavily on her mentor’s mind. Minjeong was like a puzzle to Minji—strong, skilled, and dependable, yet always carrying a shadow she rarely let anyone see. Minji respected her deeply, but more than that, she hoped she was okay.

Later that night, Minjeong sat across from Ryujin at a dimly lit bar. Before she could even speak, Ryujin leaned back in her chair with a smirk.

“So,” Ryujin started, her voice teasing, “how’s your obsession with that café going? Three, four times a week now, huh?”

Minjeong sighed, rubbing her temples. “I knew you’d notice.”

“You can’t hide anything from me,” Ryujin said, narrowing her eyes playfully. “So, what’s up? You didn’t drag me out here just to talk about croissants, right?”

Minjeong fidgeted with her beer glass, tracing her fingers along the rim. “Do you remember… what I said I wanted to do? You know, after everything that happened three years ago?”

Ryujin froze, her teasing demeanor shifting to something more serious. “Minjeong, we’ve been over this. That kind of thing won’t—”

“Not that.” Minjeong’s voice was steady, her eyes locked on Ryujin’s.

Realization dawned on Ryujin’s face. “Oh. That plan.” She leaned closer. “You’ve been thinking about it this whole time?”

“It’s been in the back of my mind,” Minjeong admitted. “But lately… it feels like things are aligning. I’m getting pieces of information I didn’t have before, and I think it’s time to act.”

Ryujin studied her friend closely. For the first time in years, she saw something in Minjeong she hadn’t seen in a while—a glimmer of hope. But then her expression turned cautious.

“You realize how risky this is, right? And the pastry girl… she’s not part of this world, Minjeong.”

“I know,” Minjeong said firmly. “I’ll make sure she’s not involved. Nothing will happen to her.”

Ryujin sipped her drink, contemplating. “Alright, but what about the bigger picture? How are you going to pull this off?”

Minjeong let out a heavy breath. “I don’t have all the answers yet. I just… need time. When the other plan succeeds, that’s when I’ll make my move.”

“You sure? And when is it? We’re talking about her ,” Ryujin leaned closer, her voice dropping slightly as she eyed Minjeong carefully.

Minjeong exhaled deeply, gripping the glass in her hand. “I know. It won’t be an issue if the other plans fall into place first. I just need to wait.”

Ryujin tilted her head, unconvinced. “You need to think this through more. She’s unpredictable, and you know it.”

“I do,” Minjeong replied, her voice steadier now. “But I also know her . I just need everything else to align, and once the timing is right, I’ll handle it.”

For a moment, Ryujin studied her, noting the flicker of determination in her eyes. It had been a long time since Minjeong seemed this driven. Ryujin finally leaned back, letting out a resigned sigh. “Alright. How do you want me to help?”

Minjeong’s gaze softened, a hint of relief breaking through. “I just need you to have my back, no matter what.”

Ryujin nodded, placing a firm hand on Minjeong’s shoulder. “You know I’ve got you. Let’s make it happen—whatever it takes.”

Minjeong’s heart thudded a little faster at Ryujin’s words, her resolve strengthening with each passing second. She had been walking a fine line for so long, always looking over her shoulder, always calculating. But now, with Ryujin’s support, the possibility of finally breaking free from the shackles of her past seemed within reach.

“I knew I could count on you,” Minjeong said quietly, her gaze dropping to the glass in her hand, the swirling amber liquid reflecting her thoughts.

The air between them was thick with unspoken understanding. Ryujin wasn’t one to sugarcoat things, and Minjeong appreciated that. She knew Ryujin wasn’t fully convinced, but she also knew that if she could pull this off, everything would change. 

Ryujin’s voice cut through her thoughts. “Just don’t forget, you’re not alone in this. You’ve got people who trust you.

Minjeong’s fingers tightened around her beer glass as she kept her gaze focused on the swirling liquid inside. Her voice came out low, almost as if to herself. “I know. I just hope she understands.”

Ryujin’s eyes scanned the room, her expression unreadable, distant. There was something in the way she looked, something that unsettled Minjeong.

“What?” Minjeong asked, narrowing her brows in confusion.

Ryujin let out a heavy sigh, her fingers tapping against the edge of her glass. “Look, this plan… hopefully it’s going to work. People trust you, Minjeong. They’re willing to support you—me included. But her?” Ryujin’s voice softened, her gaze shifting to meet Minjeong’s. “To be honest, I don’t know.”

Minjeong froze for a moment, her expression faltering. “What are you talking about?”

“I’m just saying,” Ryujin continued, her words measured but laced with doubt, “You know her better than anyone, but she’s… unpredictable. There’s a lot at stake here, and I’m not sure she’ll see it the way you do.”

Minjeong’s brows furrowed deeply as she felt a pang of disbelief rise in her chest. “Are you fucking serious right now, Ryu?” she asked, her voice filled with incredulity. “I know her. You knew what happened all this time right? There’s no reason for her not to understand this.”

Ryujin’s eyes softened with a trace of concern. “There’s actually plenty of reasons for her to not understand this, Minjeong,” she said quietly.

Minjeong shook her head, her jaw clenching in frustration. She could feel the weight of Ryujin’s words pressing down on her, but she refused to let them shake her resolve. “I’m not going to stop,” she said, her voice firm. “I can’t keep doing like this anymore. I’ve waited long enough. I don’t think I’m able to wait for many more years.”

Ryujin hesitated before responding, her voice gentle but tinged with worry. “I know. And I hope it goes well. I really do. But… that’s just my assumption, Minjeong. You know her better than anyone.”

Minjeong exhaled slowly, the weight of the decision hanging in the air. “Hopefully you’re wrong,” she said, her words more of a plea than a statement.

There was a long pause as Ryujin studied her, a flicker of doubt lingering in her gaze. Minjeong could feel the uncertainty, but she also knew that nothing would make her back down now. This was the moment, the one where everything she had been working for would either fall into place or shatter.

As the silence stretched between them, Minjeong’s thoughts turned inward. The stakes were higher than ever, and the road ahead was uncertain. But she had come too far to stop now. She was already deep into this—there was no turning back.

Chapter Text

Jimin leaned her head gently against Isa’s as they sat on the couch, watching a movie in Isa’s cozy apartment. Isa rested against Jimin’s shoulder, their hands naturally intertwined. The simple warmth of being close to Isa melted the tension in Jimin’s chest, even if just for a moment. Life in the underworld could be relentless, but nights like this made everything feel a little lighter.

“It’s late, Jimin,” Isa said as she stood by the apartment door, watching Jimin put on her jacket.

“I know, but I’ve got a meeting first thing tomorrow morning,” Jimin replied with a small pout as she approached Isa. Wrapping her arms around Isa, Jimin rested her head on the crook of her neck. “Maybe next time?”

Isa chuckled, rolling her eyes. “Sure.”

As Jimin let go, Isa leaned in to kiss her cheek softly. “Take care, Jimin.”

The unexpected kiss, paired with the way Isa said her name, sent a rush of warmth to Jimin’s cheeks. She smiled bashfully. “I’ll see you soon, Isa,” she murmured before stepping out the door.

...

Jimin entered their shared room, the space felt empty, and it didn’t take long for her to realize Minjeong was out again—working late into the night as usual. Minjeong had insisted on overseeing several key locations and monitoring the movement of goods that were at risk of being sabotaged. Suspicion surrounded a few individuals, and Minjeong was determined to ensure everything went smoothly.

Jimin had tried to stop her. She even argued with Ryujin and Yujin, explaining that Minjeong’s additional supervision wasn’t necessary. They had competent people in place, and Minjeong deserved a break after everything she had been handling lately. But Minjeong had made her case with quiet determination, emphasizing how vital vigilance was in moments like this. Jimin had no choice but to accept the decision reached in the meeting.

Even so, the situation left Jimin uneasy. She couldn’t shake the thought that Minjeong was pushing herself too hard. She worked tirelessly, carrying more than her share of responsibilities. Jimin decided she’d bring it up with Minjeong in the morning.

...

The next morning, Jimin was the first to wake. She moved quietly through the room, cooking a simple breakfast of eggs and bacon. The aroma filled the space, and soon enough, she heard soft footsteps behind her.

“You’re up early,” Minjeong said, her voice slightly hoarse as she reached for a glass of water.

Jimin glanced over her shoulder, her brow furrowing slightly. “Yeah... How could I not when I know you’ve barely slept after coming back at who-knows-what hour?” Her tone was serious.

Minjeong hummed nonchalantly and took a sip of water.

Jimin gestured to the food on the table. “Sit and eat. You need it.”

Minjeong sat down but raised an eyebrow at Jimin. “You don’t need to fuss over me, you know.”

Jimin crossed her arms. “I’m not fussing. I’m just saying... you’ve been doing too much lately. Between the mission and all the extra shifts, it’s like you don’t know how to slow down.”

Minjeong glanced up at her, her face unreadable. “I just want to make sure everything is under control. I don’t want any unexpected problems. Besides, all I did was watch—it’s not a big deal, Jimin. And there’s no such thing as ‘too much’ for Z-ON,” Minjeong replied evenly.

“It is a big deal. Z-ON isn’t going to fall apart if you take a break, Minjeong.” Jimin countered, her gaze steady on Minjeong.

Minjeong gave a faint smile, brushing off the concern. “Don’t worry about me. We have a great team, Jimin. We’ll get through this safely. I know it.”

Jimin let out a quiet sigh, her fingers lightly tracing the edge of her plate. She wanted to believe Minjeong, but the worry in her chest didn’t ease. More than anything, she felt the distance between them growing. It wasn’t intentional, but it was there—widening with every long night and every task that pulled Minjeong away.

Jimin could feel how rare their moments together had become, but Minjeong didn’t seem to notice.

Later in the day, Jimin sat at her desk in her office at Yu Enterprises, her focus locked on the documents in front of her. The sharp buzz of her phone broke her concentration. She picked it up, hearing Ningning’s cheery voice on the other end.

“Karina, there’s a package for you. Should I bring it up?”

Jimin frowned. “Package? I didn’t order anything. What kind of package?”

“Relax,” Ningning replied with a laugh. “It’s food. Still hot, by the way.”

Jimin blinked. “Food? Who sent me food?”

“No idea,” Ningning teased. “Guess we’ll find out.”

A few minutes later, Ningning walked into Jimin’s office, holding a neatly wrapped package. “Here you go, boss. Any guesses?” she asked with a smirk as she placed it on the desk.

Jimin opened the package, finding a handwritten note tucked inside. Her expression softened as she read it:

Hi Jimin, here’s a bento for you. I hope you like it! No, I didn’t cook it—you know I can’t cook—but I still hope it’s good. Eat it before it gets cold! 💋 - Isa

Jimin smiled softly as she read the note from Isa, her mood lightened by the small gesture. She was so caught up in her thoughts that Ningning’s voice startled her.

“So????” Ningning prodded, leaning against the desk with a playful smirk.

Jimin rolled her eyes, closing the note. “Why are you still here? And why are you so nosy about who sent me the package?”

“Oh, come on, Jimin,” Ningning teased as she dropped onto the couch in front of Jimin’s desk. “Who else would send you a cute little lunch box unless you’re secretly seeing someone? Spill!”

The way Ningning could talk so casually with her would have been unthinkable for anyone else. People feared Karina Yu—the cold, calculating CEO—but Ningning? She was different. Jimin sometimes wondered why she’d even hired Ningning as her secretary. But then again, she already knew. They met through Giselle, her ex-girlfriend. Ningning had been Giselle’s close friend, and even after the breakup, Ningning stayed in Jimin’s life. Now, she worked as her secretary at Yu Enterprises.

Jimin wouldn’t want anyone else in the role. Ningning wasn’t conventional, but her energy made everything run smoother. She was sharp, confident, and knew how to handle the men in this industry better than anyone. Ningning made everything feel a little easier.

“It’s—” Jimin started, but Ningning interrupted her.

“Isa. I already know,” Ningning said with a smirk.

Jimin shot her a glare. “If you already knew, why even bother asking?”

“Because it’s fun to watch you squirm,” Ningning said, ignoring Jimin’s irritation. She leaned back on the couch with a dramatic sigh. “Ugh, by the way, can you stop pushing me so hard on that damn project? I want to leave early for once and snag a croissant before they’re sold out.”

Jimin raised an eyebrow. “Just buy it after work. Stop being so dramatic.”

“It’s always sold out by then!” Ningning groaned, throwing her head back.

“Really? Minjeong always manages to get me one,” Jimin replied, trying to hide the smirk creeping onto her face. “Maybe you’re just unlucky, Ning.”

Ningning sat up straight, her curiosity piqued. “Wait. Minjeong? As in Winter , your cute bodyguard? She's the one who goes to that cafe all this time?”

“I don’t know if she goes there to hang out or just to pick it up for me,” Jimin shrugged, deliberately ignoring how Ningning emphasized the word cute.

Ningning’s eyes sparkled mischievously. “She buys it for you ? Oh, please. She probably gets it for herself and just feels bad for you, so she shares.”

Jimin leaned back in her chair with a smug grin. “Admit it, Ningning. You’re jealous because my Winter only does special things for me.”

Ningning scoffed, crossing her arms. “Enjoy it while it lasts. Soon enough, she won’t be your Winter anymore.” 

Jimin chuckled, shaking her head. “Good luck with that, Ning.”

Their banter carried on until Ningning finally got up to leave. As she reached the door, she paused, her expression turning more serious.

“Almost forgot—there’s an investor you need to look into,” Ningning said, turning back to face Jimin. “Check your email. They’re from a new business, very successful, but I’ve never heard of them before. They want to meet you soon. The thing is…” She hesitated for a moment. “They want the meeting to be at their place.”

Jimin frowned, her eyebrows knitting together. “At their place? Hell no. Who the hell do they think they are, asking me to go to them ?”

“I thought the same thing,” Ningning agreed as she walked back toward Jimin’s desk. “But listen to this—they’re offering a massive investment. Bigger than any other investor we’ve worked with so far. That’s probably why they’re calling the shots.”

Jimin leaned back in her chair, her arms crossed. “A huge investment, huh? Still doesn’t sit right with me. Why not meet here, like everyone else?”

“Could be a power move,” Ningning said thoughtfully. “They want to establish dominance or see if you’re willing to play by their rules. Or maybe it’s just a precaution on their part—keeping things on their turf.”

Jimin sighed, her mind racing. Something about this investor didn’t feel right, but Ningning had a point. The offer sounded too good to pass up, even if the terms were unusual.

“I’ll look into it later. Thanks, Ning,” Jimin finally said, though her expression remained unreadable.

Ningning nodded and headed for the door. “Don’t overthink it too much, boss. It’s probably just business.”

As the door closed, Jimin stared at the package Isa had sent her, the earlier warmth fading as unease crept in. Something about this investor felt off. She needed to discuss this with Z-ON first before she decided anything.

Chapter Text

Minjeong sat in her usual spot, sipping her coffee and gazing out the window as she waited for Wonyoung to take her break. She scrolled through the notes on her phone when someone slid into the seat beside her.

“Hey, have you been waiting long?” Wonyoung asked with a warm smile.

Minjeong shook her head. “Not at all. Take your time, Wonyoung. I’m the one bothering you by asking for your company.”

Wonyoung smiled back, her tone soft but teasing. “I’d much rather sit here with you than stand at the counter waiting for customers.”

Minjeong returned the smile, feeling a comforting warmth from Wonyoung’s presence.

When Minjeong first started coming to the café, Wonyoung noticed right away that she was different from other customers. There was something distant about her, like she was carrying an invisible weight, yet she also had a quiet curiosity. Wonyoung found it endearing when Minjeong watched her make pastries with the wide-eyed wonder of a child—or a puppy she wasn’t really sure. That was how their conversations began. Minjeong turned out to be a good listener—attentive and thoughtful. Over time, one topic seemed to spark Minjeong’s rare enthusiasm: their shared love for nature.

“So, seas and lakes, huh? You’re really into nature,” Minjeong said, curious.

Wonyoung nodded. “I am. What about you?”

“I love nature,” Minjeong replied, a soft, sad smile tugging at her lips. “The sea especially. My parents used to take me to the beach.”

Wonyoung noticed the wistfulness in her expression. “It’s okay, Minjeong. You can talk about anything with me.”

Wonyoung knew about Minjeong’s parents—she had shared bits and pieces during past conversations. Wonyoung never pushed her to open up, but when Minjeong finally did, Wonyoung listened with her whole heart.

The café’s warm lighting mirrored the reddish hues of the sunset outside. From the street, anyone passing by could see the two women talking and smiling. While Wonyoung chatted, Minjeong occasionally typed on her phone, as if noting down something important. 

From across the street, a man in a black hat and cloak watched them intently from the shadows of a shop, his expression unreadable. After a few moments, he turned and walked away into the evening.

Jimin arrived home just before sunset. On the table near the entrance, she spotted a package of croissants, a clear sign that Minjeong had been to the café earlier. Jimin smiled to herself, knowing they were probably meant for her. She couldn’t help but think back to her earlier conversation with Ningning as she headed to her room to freshen up and take a shower.

When Minjeong came out of her room later, her hair still damp from her own shower, she settled onto the couch. She unlocked her phone and opened the notes app, her thoughts drifting back to her conversation at the café. She began typing something when the door creaked open, and Jimin walked in, wearing an oversized T-shirt and shorts. Minjeong quickly exited her notes and switched to another app, her fingers moving almost too fast.

“You don’t have guard duty tonight, do you?” Jimin asked as she made her way to the couch across from Minjeong.

Minjeong shook her head. “No, just staying home. You’re not heading out either?”

Jimin plopped down onto the couch, leaning back. “Nope. Finally, we have the night to ourselves. Feels like it’s been awhile since we’ve had a quiet evening at home together.”

Minjeong frowned slightly. “What? We were home together like a week or two ago, Jimin.”

Jimin shrugged. “Yeah, but it feels like ages.”

Minjeong let out a hum, turning her attention back to her phone. Jimin did the same, and the room fell into a comfortable silence for a while.

“What do you want for dinner?” Minjeong eventually asked, breaking the quiet.

“Ramen sounds good. What about you?” Jimin replied without looking up.

“I’m in the mood for steak tonight,” Minjeong said.

Jimin raised an eyebrow. “You’re not going to cook it yourself, are you?”

Minjeong chuckled softly. “No, I’ll have the chefs handle it.”

For breakfast, Minjeong often cooked for the two of them, but lunch and dinner were typically left to the chefs since their schedules were usually packed—Jimin with work and Minjeong with missions or training operatives. At night, they were often too tired to cook themselves.

Minjeong headed downstairs and found Ryujin and Yeji in the kitchen, either attempting to cook something or simply making a mess. The chefs, familiar with their behavior, chose to give them some space. These lovebirds, Minjeong thought, amused.

"Minjeong, are you planning to cook, or just here to eat?" Ryujin asked with a teasing grin.

"Oh please, if she’s cooking, she’d do it upstairs, not here," Yeji chimed in, rolling her eyes.

"What do you want to eat, Minjeong? I’ll let the chef know since they’re in the bathroom," Yeji offered as Ryujin continued stirring whatever dish she was working on.

"The usual steak for me and ramen for Jimin," Minjeong replied with a small smile.

“So Jimin’s free tonight?” Yeji asked, glancing over at Minjeong.

“Yeah, she’s in the room,” Minjeong replied, leaning casually against the counter.

Ryujin grinned. “Finally, you two are home together for once. Honestly, when was the last time you both had a peaceful night here?”

Minjeong shrugged. “What? We had dinner together like last week.”

“Yeah, but last week, you were both swamped with work,” Ryujin pointed out, her gaze steady. “Especially you, Minjeong.”

Minjeong looked away, avoiding Ryujin’s knowing eyes. “We’ve spent years together. I don’t see why you’re making it a big deal.”

Yeji crossed her arms. “It’s not a big deal. We’re just happy to see you both home, not worrying about work for once. You both need rest too, you know.”

Minjeong remained quiet, her expression unreadable. Finally, she sighed. “I know.”

Ryujin softened her gaze. “Alright, Captain. Go on, we’ll text you when the food’s ready.”

Minjeong rolled her eyes at Ryujin’s mock salute before heading back to her room.

...

Later, there was a knock on their door. Jimin opened it to find Cal, their long-time chef, holding the food.

“Cal! Thank you so much. How’s your day been?” Jimin asked warmly as she took the plates.

Minjeong appeared behind her, frowning. “Cal, I told Ryujin I’d pick up the food myself. You didn’t have to bring it all the way here.”

Cal smiled kindly. “It’s no trouble, Minjeong. Besides, it’s been a while since I’ve seen you both.”

“I’m sorry—” Minjeong started, but Cal interrupted her with a wave of her hand. “No apologies needed. Just make sure to eat well and take care of yourselves, okay?”

Jimin smiled softly as Cal briefly caressed her cheek. Cal had always treated Jimin like their own daughter, though they rarely interacted due to Jimin’s busy schedule.

“Thank you so much, Cal,” Jimin said sincerely.

“You’re welcome, kids. Enjoy your meal,” Cal replied before leaving.

…

At the dining table, they ate quietly for a while before Jimin spoke. “I got an offer from an investor. The amount is incredible.”

Minjeong glanced at her, raising an eyebrow. “But?”

“They want me to go to their company to finalize the deal,” Jimin said, stirring her ramen.

Minjeong frowned. “That’s odd. Investors usually come to you, not the other way around.”

Jimin nodded. “Yeah, it’s unusual.”

“That’s suspicious, Jimin. With the way things are right now, it’s risky. Better not take the chance,” Minjeong said firmly.

Jimin sighed. “But if we don’t take it, they’ll offer it to our competitors. And the amount is huge.”

“Set up a meeting tomorrow,” Minjeong said, her tone sharp. “We need to ensure everything is safe first. No deal is worth risking your safety, Jimin. You know that, right?”

Jimin looked at her thoughtfully and nodded. “Yeah, you’re right.”

Minjeong’s serious expression softened slightly, but her resolve was clear. She glanced at Jimin, who was quietly finishing her ramen, the slight crease in her brows betraying the thoughts running through her mind. Despite her tough exterior, Jimin always carried the weight of her decisions, and Minjeong could see it.

Chapter Text

Minjeong stood at the entrance of the armory, pressing her fingerprint against the scanner. The door slid open with a quiet hiss. She stepped aside to let a group of 12 young recruits enter. Inside, the room was filled with an array of weapons of every kind and size, neatly displayed on shelves and racks.

"You can take a look, but no touching," Minjeong instructed.

The recruits immediately spread out, inspecting the weapons with wide-eyed curiosity. After a few minutes, Minjeong clapped her hands, drawing their attention. "Alright, gather up."

The group quickly formed a line in front of her. “This is the armory room, and only leaders have access to it. That’s why you are not allowed to train here without a leader or coach present,” she began. She looked each recruit in the eye before continuing. "Every one of you will need to learn how to use every weapon in this room before choosing your signature weapon. You must know how to hold them, how to use them, their strengths, and their weaknesses."

Minjeong moved toward the section showcasing Z-ON's prized weapon collection. "Learning the basics of various weapons will prepare you for any situation. There may be times when you won't have access to your preferred weapon. You’ll need to adapt. A broom, a plate, a glass—anything around you can become a weapon. And if there’s absolutely nothing, your body becomes your weapon. That’s why we train in martial arts as well."

The recruits, including Minji, listened attentively until the sound of the door opening interrupted them.

“Minjeong,” Ryujin called from the entrance.

Minjeong turned her head. “Ah, yes. I have a meeting. Yujin or Rio will take over from here,” she said, excusing herself. She followed Ryujin out of the room.

...

As Minjeong and Ryujin walked toward the meeting room, Ryujin glanced at her. “I thought you were in the training room. I went there, but it was empty.”

“No, I wanted the recruits to start learning about weapons. We need to strengthen all our lines, and I think it’s time they started weapon training,” Minjeong explained.

Meanwhile, at Z-ON headquarters, Jimin entered the meeting room dressed in a black hoodie and black pants. Yeji was already there, typing on her laptop, along with a member of the administration team and a member of the security team.

“Where’s Ryujin?” Jimin asked as she walked to her seat.

“She went to the training room to call Minjeong for the meeting,” Yeji replied without looking up.

Moments later, the sound of footsteps echoed, and Ryujin entered, followed by Minjeong. Ryujin sat next to the security team member, and Minjeong took the seat beside Jimin.

“Alright, everyone’s here. Let’s start,” Jimin said firmly.

...

Yeji began with an update on Z-ON’s business developments, including profits and operational updates. Jimin listened carefully, occasionally typing notes on her tablet. She asked a few questions about progress in the eastern region, and Minjeong added her input. A member of Yeji’s team recorded key points from the discussion.

“I have some news,” Jimin said, setting down her tablet. “I received a very attractive offer from an investor. However, they want me to visit their office to finalize the deal instead of them coming here.”

“When do they want you to go?” Yeji asked, frowning slightly.

“In three days,” Jimin replied, exhaling deeply.

“That’s odd. Why the rush? And why do you have to go to them?” Ryujin asked, her tone skeptical.

“They said they’ll offer the deal to our competitors if we don’t act quickly,” Jimin explained.

“What’s the name of this investor?” Minjeong asked.

“SM. I’ve already sent you their email, Ryujin. I need you to dig into this company,” Jimin said without looking up from her tablet.

Ryujin nodded, and Minjeong frowned slightly. “SM? Never heard of them before.”

“That’s why we’re looking into it,” Jimin said with a sigh.

“Give me a few minutes,” Ryujin said as she opened her laptop and began typing.

Ryujin and her team quickly started investigating SM. Their expressions grew serious as they worked, fingers moving rapidly across keyboards. Minjeong glanced at Jimin, who was busy with her phone, before her gaze shifted to Yeji. Yeji was staring back at her with an unreadable expression.

After a few moments, Ryujin broke the silence, her tone serious. “SM has been around for about two years. They’re aggressive and hold a large share in a major entertainment company. It’s strange for such a company to rise so quickly. The founder, Sooman, has no traceable background. We’ll need more time to dig deeper. Their office is located in the west, about five hours from here. Are you sure you still want to consider this offer, Jimin?”

Jimin leaned back in her chair, her expression calm but determined. “Yes, Ryu. The offer is too significant to ignore. If we don’t take it, it’ll fall into the hands of our competitors, and we can’t let that happen. What’s the harm in trying? besides, you still have time to investigate further. If it turns out to be truly suspicious, I’ll cancel. But if the signs are unclear, I’ll proceed—cautiously.”

Minjeong’s brows furrowed as she spoke, her voice firm. “Jimin, think about the possibilities. Igor’s situation and now this sudden offer—it could all be connected. I understand this is crucial for Yu Enterprises, but your safety must come first. Unlike you, the rest of us are used to taking risks on missions. If something happens to us, it’s a calculated risk. But you? We can’t afford to lose you. Z-ON can’t afford to lose you. You’re not just a leader—you’re the foundation of this entire operation. I think you should reconsider this carefully.”

Yeji nodded, her concern evident. “Minjeong’s right, Jimin. You need to prioritize your safety.”

Ryujin, who had been focused on her laptop, suddenly spoke up. “Actually.. Jimin, you’ve already been in the same room as Sooman. Look at this.” She turned her screen to show a photo. “This was taken at the Met Gala. You were both there.”

Jimin leaned forward to examine the image. “Makes sense. The Met Gala’s focus is on the celebrities, not people like us. But I didn’t meet him there,” she said quietly.

Ryujin zoomed in on the image and pointed. “Here he is—chatting with your competitor.”

The photo showed Sooman engaged in conversation with NewCity’s CEO. Jimin’s jaw tightened. It wasn’t that she hated her competitors. In fact, they often impressed her with their strategies. But NewCity’s CEO, who had once openly expressed interest in her, sometimes rubbed her the wrong way. Worse, in some areas, NewCity seemed to outperform Yu Enterprises, and Jimin couldn’t tolerate that. For her, maintaining Yu Enterprises as the dominant force wasn’t just about pride—it was about her family, her parents’ legacy, and the future of Z-ON.

“Like I said,” Jimin began, her voice resolute, “I want you to dig deeper, Ryu. Keep me updated with everything you find. If there are clear warning signs, I’ll back out. But if things remain unclear, I’ll proceed—with caution, of course.”

Jimin’s words carried the weight of her authority. Even though some of them might disagree, they knew the final decision was hers.

Minjeong broke the silence, her tone serious yet calm. “Understood. But for your safety, I’ll create a detailed plan and organize the mission when we go to the investor’s site. We need to ensure everything goes smoothly.”

Jimin glanced at Minjeong, her expression softening slightly. She wanted to argue, to tell her it wasn’t necessary, but she knew Minjeong wouldn’t back down. Finally, she sighed. “Fine. Do what you need to do, Minjeong.”

Minjeong gave a firm nod. “I’ll handle it.”

The meeting was over. Jimin followed Yeji to her office to discuss business matters, while Ryujin and one of her team members returned to their room to continue an investigation. Meanwhile, Minjeong headed to the training area to check on the team members who had been practicing.

Minjeong arrived at the shooting range and found Yujin demonstrating the proper way to hold a gun. She introduced five different pistols, explaining their unique features and how to use them effectively. One by one, Yujin instructed the trainees to try shooting with each gun, beginning with one and moving on to the next.

Minjeong stood at the back, quietly observing. Her mind, however, was distracted. She was already thinking about the mission she had to organize for Jimin’s departure in a few days. Time was running out, and there was still so much to prepare.

The youngest recruit was lining up her final shot when Jimin unexpectedly walked in. The atmosphere shifted immediately. The recruits froze, lowering their weapons as Jimin’s commanding presence filled the room. It wasn’t often they saw her up close—most had only met her during their initial recruitment or glimpsed her in passing.

“Why stop? Keep going,” Jimin encouraged with a gentle smile, her tone reassuring yet firm.

Yujin glanced toward the entrance, her attention drawn by the voice. She spotted Jimin walking toward Minjeong, who raised an eyebrow, silently questioning why Jimin had come.

“Minjeong, I just want to say there’s no need to involve too many people tomorrow,” Jimin said softly, her voice low enough not to distract the trainees further.

Minjeong gave her a calm but serious look. “I haven’t finalized plans with the team yet, but we’ll do whatever’s necessary, Jimin.” Jimin nodded slightly but said nothing more. Her attention shifted to the recruits practicing their shooting, her gaze thoughtful. Memories of her own training flooded back—standing in a similar shooting range, her father’s voice guiding her through every shot when she was just a child.

Minjeong noticed the distant look in Jimin’s eyes. Before she could say anything, Yujin called for a break, giving the trainees a moment to recover.

“Wait, Yujin,” Minjeong interrupted before the trainees could leave. “Let me take over for a moment.”

Yujin stepped back, gesturing for Minjeong to proceed. Minjeong’s expression shifted as she addressed the group. “We don’t often have visitors during training, right? But today, we’re in for a rare treat. Yu Jimin, also known as Karina Yu, the leader of Z-ON, is here with us.” She motioned for Jimin to stand beside her.

Jimin’s eyes widened slightly at the unexpected announcement. She shot Minjeong a quick glare but had no choice but to go along with it. “Hi, everyone,” Jimin greeted warmly, flashing a polite smile. “I was just stopping by to speak with Minjeong. Sorry if I interrupted your training.”

The young recruits shook their heads, murmuring reassurances. Jimin couldn’t help but smile wider at their earnest reactions.

“Well, since Jimin is here, I think it’s a good opportunity for all of us,” Minjeong continued. “You should know that she’s not only an exceptional leader but also a black belt in martial arts from a very young age.”

“Even better than you, right?” Jimin cut in, raising an eyebrow in mock challenge.

Minjeong glanced at her but chose to ignore the remark, continuing as Jimin chuckled under her breath. “Jimin, would you mind showing us some of your skills? You’ve been trained by one of the best, after all—your father. Maybe you can even share some tips with the team.” She gestured toward the shooting range. 

Caught off guard but unwilling to disappoint, Jimin stepped forward. “Alright, I’ll give it a shot—no pun intended,” she said with a chuckle, earning a few laughs from the recruits.

Jimin walked to the shooting line, selected one of the pistols Yujin had set aside and put on her ear protectors, She adjusted her stance, placing her feet shoulder-width apart. “The first thing to remember is your stance,” she began, her tone shifting to that of an instructor. “You need a stable base, so keep your feet grounded but not too rigid. Relax your shoulders, and let your arms do the work.”

She raised the gun, aligning it with the target. Jimin fired the first shot, hitting the target dead center.

“See that? A good shot starts with your breathing. Take a deep breath in, exhale slowly, and squeeze the trigger gently—don’t pull it too hard, or you’ll throw off your aim.”

She fired again, landing another bullseye. The recruits watched in awe, clearly impressed.

On her third shot, however, the bullet missed the mark, hitting just outside the center ring. A collective gasp escaped from the recruits.

Jimin lowered the gun and took off her ear protection, smiling sheepishly. “And sometimes, you miss. It’s been a while since I last trained, so it happens. The lesson here? Consistency is key. If you want to keep your skills sharp, you have to keep practicing.”

The recruits nodded eagerly, inspired by her performance.

Minjeong clapped her hands lightly. “Alright, I think that’s enough for Jimin. She has a busy schedule, after all. Let’s thank her for sharing her time and expertise with us.”

A few recruits stepped forward, offering individual thanks. “Thank you for the tips, Jimin,” one said sincerely.

Jimin smiled warmly. “My pleasure. Keep practicing, and I’ll see you all around.” She waved as she made her way to the door.