Stigma Love's Algorithm [ A BTS x Reader Poly ]

Chapter 45: Days That Feel Light Again

I scan the list, feeling something shift in my chest.

Because this?

This is necessary.

This is important.

This is the kind of change that could actually make a difference.

"This..." I pause, taking a second to really absorb the impact of it. "This is brilliant."

Dara doesn't smirk or preen under the compliment.

She just gives a simple nod, as if this is nothing more than the next logical step.

"It's overdue," she says matter-of-factly. "We should have integrated these features sooner."

I can't argue with that.

Because the truth is, she's right.

And I hate that I have nothing to add, no counterpoint to make, no angle she hasn't already thought of.

Instead, I clear my throat "What's the timeline for implementation?"

Dara clicks to the next slide. "Phase one will begin rolling out in beta within two months. We'll start with speech-to-text and color contrast features before expanding further."

Yoongi nods in approval beside me. "Security-wise, we'll need to run vulnerability tests before launching voice data storage. But overall, this is a solid plan."

I glance at him, noticing the way he looks genuinely engaged.

It's not often that Yoongi outwardly praises a business proposal. But here he is, giving Dara an approving nod like she's one of the few people he actually respects.

I keep my expression neutral, but internally, there's a quiet acceptance settling in.

She's... good at this. What the heck, I know she's great.

I've always known that. I just don't usually admit it.

Dara moves through the rest of the presentation with her usual efficiency, hitting every key point without lingering too long on any slide.

By the time she finishes, the room is silent-not because people aren't interested, but because there's nothing left to question.

Because she has already covered everything.

I let out a slow breath, flipping my notebook closed.

Yoongi smirks beside me, voice low and amused. "You love it."

I whip my head toward him, scowling. "It's a good idea and I'm a professional"

He just chuckles, entirely too entertained.

Dara, meanwhile, watches our exchange looking slightly amused, gathering her notes as she speaks.

"That concludes today's review," she says smoothly. "We'll schedule a follow-up meeting next week to assess development progress."

As the team starts to disperse, I stay seated for a second, my fingers absently tapping against the table.

Dara passes by, pausing briefly at my side.

"Good to have you back, Y/N," she says with a genuine smile

I glance up, appreciating her genuinity.

"Thanks Dara," I reply, as I give her a small smile.

Dara gives a killer smile before walking away, her heels clicking softly against the floor.

I exhale slowly, feeling somewhat drained despite not having spoken much.

Because Dara Lee?

She's sharp.
She's brilliant.
She's a force to be reckoned with.