บท 16: Chapter Nine - The New Assistant Manager (Part 1)

Chapter Song Suggestion - "Morning Coffee by Chevy and Nalba"

Standing in front of the dressing mirror, I admire my reflection in a royal blue one piece suit. It's my first day on the job and I want to make a good impression. Having purpose again feels good and I'm sure my neglected wardrobe agrees with me.

My phone pings. It's a morning text from Dae.

Dae : I know you'll do great today. See you tonight.

Yesterday, Dae had to make an emergency trip to Jeju Island so we had to cancel our plans. It seems he's making up for it tonight.

Collecting my matching bag and heels, I traipse down to the kitchen. "Good morning, everyone."

Dad's already seated, his nose buried in the morning papers while Mom sets a place for me. "Come and have breakfast, Aera. I've prepared your favorite egg rolls."

"Mmm, it smells delicious, Mom." I praise, merrily.

Dad smiles, taking a sip of his coffee. "After you're done, I'll take you to the office."

I notice he's dressed differently today. Smarter. "Is there a special occasion today?" I admire his dark grey suit with a crooked grin. "Perhaps a big meeting with some big shot?"

Dad gives me a sly look. "You'll know if Chang-Min decides to fill you in. Don't assume you'll have it easy because it's your first day." He chuckles heartily. "Though, I think you underestimated yourself because you left quite an impression on that boy."

I sit taller. My eyes sparkle with interest. "What did he tell you?"

"He didn't have to. Hiring you is solid proof. The rejected candidates were mostly top graduates."

"What kind of man is he?" I admit I'm a little curious. "Since I'll have to work with him every day, don't you think you should give me some tips?"

"Chang-Min's always been a quiet and serious boy. He started as an intern, showing a lot of promise. Diligent and smart, he once helped us out of a pinch, and I knew his talents would be wasted on a small company like ours. He surprised me when he officially applied to work for us after he graduated." My father's fondness tells me he appreciates Manager Lee. "I asked him why he wants to join Yang Logistics and he told me he sees a future with us. Chang-Min doesn't talk about his family and I didn't pry because his performance was outstanding." Sadness tinges his voice. "But this one sentence he said to me, I have never forgotten."

I lean forward, breath lodged in my throat. "What is it?"

"He said, you gave me a chance when no one else would."

Now, I'm very intrigued. "Why would he say that?"

"After that, I couldn't help but do a little digging. It turns out Chang-Min grew up in an impoverished province. His mother died during childbirth and his father was an abusive drunk. To survive, Chang-Min started working since he was seven years old and saved enough to get himself a decent education. He moved to the city after receiving a local scholarship, but he was rejected by plenty of big companies due to his background. Competition from top university graduates was fierce too."

"Is that why he ended up interning at your company?"

Dad nods. "Chang-Min's not a talker, but a doer. He promises to build up Yang Logistics and pay back our kindness. It wasn't as altruistic as he tells it. We were hiring and needed help, and he happened to fill up the position."

"Even so, he's been working with you for six or seven years now?"

"Nine, actually." Dad boasts proudly. "He's the youngest long-term staff in the company. He worked his way up to his current managerial position. His contribution is a testament of his will."

I can see why Dad likes Manager Lee. He probably sees himself in the younger man, although their background circumstances were different. Dad's family used to run in the elite circles until grandfather went bankrupt and he committed suicide, leaving his young wife and son to fend for themselves. The bank took everything and soon, grandmother fell ill and passed away. Dad was shuffled around his relatives and life wasn't kind to him. Mom said they met when he was being beaten up by a bunch of kids from school, and she saved him. Apparently, Dad fell in love with mom first, and he decided to become a reliable man who can provide her a decent home and family.

It sounds romantic and all, but it's odd how mom always has a sad expression when she talks about the past. And she never reveals the years she lost contact with dad. I'm curious but also afraid it's going to open old wounds that isn't healthy for a woman her age.

"I had no idea Manager Lee has such a sad past. I think I'm beginning to understand him better." I admit with a heavy heart. "Though he's in serious need of learning how to be organized, I think I'll get along with him just fine."

"That's good to hear." Dad is content with my response. "If you're finished, why don't we head over to the office?"

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We arrive outside a warehouse office building that is my father's company. My brows pull together in confusion. "Dad, this isn't the same place I went for the interview."

"That's the old headquarters in the city." He explains. "This right here, is the heart and soul of Yang Logistics, and where you'll be working for the foreseeable future."

"Then why isn't Manager Lee stationed here?"

Dad sighs. "Chang-Min's stubborn about coming to the new headquarters because it's inaccessible by subway. But don't worry, he'll be here today because I've finally given up the lease on the old headquarters. He has no choice. I told him that if he wants you as his assistant, then he has to compromise."

My cheeks burn. "He said that?"

"Not in so many words." Dad replies cheekily and climbs out of the car. I follow suit and we walk into the lobby.

"I have a meeting to attend, so you're on your own." He turns to me, patting my shoulder. "The receptionist will help you out. Break a leg, kiddo."

I smile at his attempt of a wink, then make a beeline for the reception desk. "Good morning. I'm Yang Aera, here to report for my first day of work for Manager Lee."

"Ah, yes. We've been waiting for you." The receptionist dials a number on the phone desk. "Please, take a seat. Assistant Manager Yura will be with you in a moment."

Five minutes later, a tall, slim woman exits the lift and saunters my way. I try not to gawk. She looks like a supermodel. A friendly smile frames her lips as she extends her hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Ms. Yang. I'm Yura, the current assistant manager for Manager Lee."

I stand, accepting her warm handshake. "It's nice to meet you too."

"Let me take you on a quick tour around the office. After that, we can discuss your job responsibilities and tasks for the future." She motions for me to follow her and off we go.