Chapter 50: Chapter 50
The meeting progressed with Team 2's Leader securing permission to equip bodyguards with firearms and knives, a move aimed at enhancing the combat readiness of the SW Security Team. While the members welcomed the decision with confidence, Joon, although not visibly reacting, recognized its necessity in light of recent security breaches like Jiyeh's kidnapping attempt. Reflecting on their encounter in the tunnel, Joon acknowledged their fortunate escape from heavily armed mercenaries, emphasizing the need for improved security measures.
In response, SW Security planned to bolster its manpower by recruiting fresh faces into the teams. Despite Team 2's Leader's earnest delivery of the changes, Joon found his attention waning, his mind drifting from the presentation. Unbeknownst to his colleagues, each glance earned him Pretense +, a silent acknowledgment of his serious facade.
"Makes me feel like I'm back in school," Joon mused internally, yearning for the end of the meeting. The topics discussed failed to capture his interest, prompting him to await its conclusion impatiently.
Finally, as Team 2's Leader wrapped up, the audience processed the information while Joon eagerly anticipated dismissal. Clarifications and inquiries ensued, prolonging the meeting's end. When no further questions remained, Team 2's Leader dismissed the group, signaling the end of the session.
As members gradually dispersed from the room, a few approached Joon, offering a welcome diversion from the monotony of the meeting. Leading the conversation was Beomsuk, inquiring about Joon's time in the hospital and his current state of recovery, among other topics. Engaging in lively discussion, Joon found himself immersed in conversation until hunger prompted him to consider a break.
Just as he contemplated excusing himself, a visitor entered the room, catching the attention of Team 2's Leader. His surprise was palpable upon recognizing the newcomer as the Chief Secretary. "Greetings, Sir. What brings you here?" Team 2's Leader inquired, eager to understand the reason for the unexpected visit.
The remaining members inside the room echoed greetings to the Chief Secretary, including Joon himself. As the Chief Secretary acknowledged their salutations, his gaze lingered briefly on Joon before addressing Team 2's Leader. "I'm here for Mr. Joon. He's been summoned by the CEO," he revealed, his statement sparking curiosity among those present.
With all eyes now fixed on him, Joon felt a mix of surprise and anticipation at being called by the CEO. Speculation buzzed among the group as they pondered the purpose behind Joon's summons, lending an air of intrigue to the atmosphere.
Joon was taken aback by the summons from the CEO himself, but he quickly composed himself. The Chief Secretary's gaze fell upon him, prompting him to follow. "Follow me," the Chief Secretary instructed, leading Joon out of the room.
Glancing back at his teammates, Joon noticed their intrigued expressions before trailing behind the Chief Secretary. Together, they traversed the hallway toward the CEO's office.
As they walked, the Chief Secretary couldn't help but wonder why Joon hadn't questioned the reason for his summons. "Don't you have any questions about why you're being called?" he queried, his tone serious.
Joon's response was firm and decisive. "I don't have any questions at this time, thank you," he replied, his demeanor unwavering.
The Chief Secretary briefly regarded Joon before nodding and continuing their journey. After a minute of walking, they arrived at the CEO's office door.
Knocking respectfully, the Chief Secretary announced their presence. "It's me, Sir," he called out, receiving a response from within to enter.
As they stepped inside, the Chief Secretary gestured for Joon to precede him. Joon complied, entering the room to find the CEO awaiting him.
"I've been expecting you, Mr. Joon. Please, take a seat," the CEO greeted with a light smile, motioning toward a chair opposite him.
Joon nodded in acknowledgment before making his way to the designated seat. With the Chief Secretary standing guard by the door, the conversation between Joon and the CEO commenced.
"I'll get straight to the point, considering your busy schedule," the CEO began abruptly. "I've summoned you here to discuss compensation for your heroic actions, saving my granddaughter on two separate occasions. So, tell me, what do you desire?"
With a sense of urgency, the CEO rested his hands on the table, eager to hear Joon's request. Taken aback by the unexpected offer, Joon hesitated momentarily, feeling that Jiyeh's gratitude was sufficient reward. However, faced with the CEO's anticipation, he knew he had to respond.
Remaining silent for a moment, Joon contemplated his response, aware of the CEO's anticipation. Finally, he spoke, "I don't require anything tangible. Instead, I would ask for a favor when the need arises, if that's acceptable to you, Sir."
Joon's request caught both the CEO and the Chief Secretary off guard. They had anticipated a material reward and hadn't expected such a selfless proposal. The CEO weighed the request carefully, considering its implications.
After a brief moment of deliberation, the CEO responded firmly, "I agree to your terms. As long as the favor falls within SW Corporation's capabilities, we will do our best to assist you."
The Chief Secretary observed the exchange silently, refraining from interjecting. He made a mental note to discuss the matter further with the CEO after the meeting concluded.
The two men clasped hands, solidifying their agreement. As they released their grip, the CEO instructed, "Please exchange phone numbers. Joon, provide yours to him, and Chief Secretary, give yours to Joon."
Joon complied with a nod, acknowledging the CEO's directive. Retrieving his phone, he swiftly exchanged numbers with the Chief Secretary, each recording the other's contact information.
With the exchange complete, Joon bid farewell to the CEO and the Chief Secretary, receiving respectful nods in return. He exited the room, his mind already focused on his next destination: Jiyeh's whereabouts.
Alone in the room, the Chief Secretary contemplated whether to voice his curiosity about Joon's unconventional request. Sensing his subordinate's contemplation, the CEO addressed the unspoken question with a knowing glance.
"You're wondering why I agreed to it," the CEO stated, preempting the Chief Secretary's inquiry. "Let me explain. Firstly, it's about gratitude; you know the reasons. Secondly, it's about fostering a stronger relationship between him and SW. I believe having Mr. Joon on our side could greatly benefit SW Corporation. His capabilities alone could enhance our security measures. It's somewhat intangible, more of a gut feeling, but I'm willing to invest in it."
Joon would have been utterly bewildered if he had overheard the CEO expressing such profound trust in him. He never anticipated that the CEO would place such significance on his role within the company. Inwardly, he might have chuckled at the thought, realizing that his responsibilities were about to become far more challenging.
Weekly Power Status
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Ranking 
-- Power
stone