Closer Than This...(vsoo)

75.

The days since Yuri's grandiose return had settled into a tense routine. At Bliss, Jisoo poured herself into her work, navigating meetings, product launches, and shareholder discussions with her usual grace and determination.

The buzz from Yuri's extravagant party had begun to fade, but whispers about her rise and influence still lingered in the business circles.

Meanwhile, at Hyung's, Taehyung found himself unusually restless. His usual stoic demeanor showed cracks, especially after Kim Taehwan announced his decision to invest heavily in Yuri Nam's expanding company.

It wasn't the investment itself that unsettled Taehyung but the underlying implications. His uncle was a man of calculation-every move had layers of intent.

Sitting in his office, Taehyung stared at the financial reports on his desk, but his mind was elsewhere. His fingers tapped rhythmically against the table as he replayed his last conversation with Taehwan.

"I see potential in Yuri," Taehwan had said with a smug grin during their last meeting. "She's innovative, ambitious, and, most importantly, loyal to those who support her. You could learn a thing or two from her, nephew."

Taehyung had clenched his jaw, forcing himself to remain calm. "Investing in her company is your choice, but I hope you've done your due diligence. A rising company can crumble just as quickly if its foundation isn't solid."

Taehwan's smirk widened. "Worried, are we? Don't be. This is about diversification. You should congratulate her; after all, she was once your dear friend."

Now, as Taehyung sat in silence, his uncle's words echoed in his mind. It wasn't just an investment-it was a move to strengthen Yuri's position, possibly against him.

The alliance between Taehwan and Yuri was a dangerous combination of ambition and cunning, and Taehyung knew better than to underestimate either of them.

Just then, Yeonjun, his secretary entered the office, his usual relaxed demeanor replaced by concern. " Sir you look like you haven't slept in days," he remarked, placing a file on the desk.

"Sleep is a luxury I can't afford right now," Taehyung replied, scanning the file. "What's this?"

"Details about Yuri's company," yeonjun said, taking a seat. "She's been acquiring smaller firms left and right, focusing on innovative tech and cosmetics-an unusual combination, but it's working for her. Taehwan's backing will only accelerate her growth."

Taehyung sighed, leaning back in his chair. "It's not just about her company. It's about control. Taehwan doesn't make moves without a bigger plan. This isn't just a business decision it's personal."

Yeonjun nodded. "We need to figure out what his endgame is. For now, Yuri's focus seems to be on solidifying her position. She's already meeting with key players in the industry, building alliances. She might even try to approach Bliss indirectly."

At the mention of Bliss, Taehyung's thoughts shifted to Jisoo. She was already juggling enough with her responsibilities, and the last thing he wanted was for her to be blindsided by Yuri's maneuvers.

"Keep monitoring them," Taehyung instructed. "And let me know if Yuri makes any moves toward Bliss or its partners. I won't let her or Taehwan interfere with Jisoo's work."

That evening, as Taehyung returned home, he found the apartment unusually quiet. Jisoo was in the living room, seated at the coffee table with documents spread before her, a cup of tea steaming beside her.

She looked up as he entered, her expression softening. "You're home late," she said, her voice warm despite the hint of concern.

"Long day," Taehyung replied, shrugging off his coat. He walked over, taking a seat across from her. "You?"