Rise of Silent Genius

The crisp morning air greeted Wang Soo as he stepped out of the modest home he now shared with Lee's family. Life had taken a turn he never anticipated, but today, there was a sliver of hope. Celin and Will had invited him to discuss the new business they were planning in Creatis. It felt like the fresh start he desperately needed.

Celin's Proposal

The café where they agreed to meet was bustling with energy. Celin, ever the vibrant presence, waved enthusiastically when she spotted Wang Soo at the entrance. Beside her sat Will, his demeanor calm but friendly. Anna, their quiet cousin with an uncanny knack for observing everything, sat across from them, scrolling through her phone.

"You made it!" Celin beamed, pulling Wang Soo into a hug. "We've got so much to talk about."

Wang Soo settled into a seat, offering a polite nod to Will and Anna. "So, what's this big idea you've been teasing me about?"

Celin's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Will and I are starting a boutique co-working space in Creatis. We've already scouted a location, but we need someone with your expertise to manage the creative side—branding, marketing, events. You know, the works."

Wang Soo's brows lifted. "That's ambitious. And you're sure you want me for this?"

"Absolutely," Will interjected, his voice steady. "Celin's told me a lot about you. Your track record speaks for itself, and we trust you."

Anna chimed in, her voice soft but certain. "Plus, Creatis could use a place like this. It's a great idea, and you'd make it even better."

Wang Soo felt a flicker of pride, but it was quickly tempered by doubt. "I'm honored, but are you sure it's a good idea to involve me? My reputation…"

Celin cut him off. "Forget the past. This is about building something new. Together."

Her confidence was infectious, and for the first time in months, Wang Soo felt a genuine sense of purpose.

A week later, Wang Soo found himself standing in front of Will's father, a stern and calculating businessman. The meeting was their chance to secure the investment needed to bring their vision to life, but the man's penetrating gaze made Wang Soo feel as though he was under a microscope.

"So, you're the creative genius my son keeps talking about," Will's father began, his tone neither warm nor cold. "Why should I trust you with my money?"

Wang Soo took a deep breath, steadying his nerves. "Because I've learned from my mistakes. I've faced challenges that tested my limits, and I've come out stronger. This project isn't just a business opportunity for me; it's a chance to rebuild and prove what I'm capable of."

Will's father leaned back in his chair, his expression unreadable. "Convincing words. But actions speak louder. What's your plan?"

With Will's help, Wang Soo presented their strategy—a detailed blueprint of the co-working space's unique selling points, marketing approach, and potential revenue streams. By the end of the presentation, even the seasoned businessman looked impressed.

"You've got potential," he admitted. "But potential alone doesn't guarantee success. I'll fund the initial phase, but I expect regular updates and results. No excuses."

Relief washed over Wang Soo as he and Will exchanged a triumphant glance. They had secured the investment, but the real work was just beginning.

News of Wang Soo's new venture spread quickly, and it wasn't long before it reached Albeirt. Seething with jealousy, he decided to take matters into his own hands.

Using his connections, Albeirt began planting false rumors about the co-working space, claiming it was a front for shady dealings. He even went as far as to leak misleading "documents" to local media outlets, casting doubt on the project's legitimacy.

The fallout was immediate. Within days, Will's father received a barrage of concerned calls, questioning his decision to back the venture. Investors began to waver, and the team found themselves scrambling to contain the damage.

"This has Albeirt written all over it," Wang Soo fumed, pacing the small office they had set up. "He's trying to sabotage me again."

Will placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Then we fight back. We'll clear our name and prove them wrong."

Celin nodded, her determination mirroring her brother's. "We've come too far to let him win. Let's get to work."

The team launched a counter-campaign, leveraging social media to share their story and build trust with the community. Anna, with her knack for online trends, spearheaded the effort, creating engaging content that highlighted the project's authenticity and potential benefits for Creatis.

Meanwhile, Wang Soo reached out to old colleagues and clients, asking them to vouch for his character and skills. Their testimonials added credibility to the campaign, slowly shifting public opinion in their favor.

Despite the challenges, the team's hard work began to pay off. The tide was turning, but the ordeal had taken a toll on Wang Soo. Late one night, as he sat in the empty office, he found himself reflecting on how far he had come and how much further he still had to go.

Lee joined him, bringing a thermos of coffee and a warm smile. "I thought you could use this."

Wang Soo looked up, his exhaustion evident. "Thanks. I'm not sure how much more of this I can take."

"You've already taken on so much," Lee said, sitting beside him. "And you've come out stronger every time. Don't let him break you now."

Her words reignited the fire within him. Wang Soo straightened, determination etched across his face. "You're right. We've worked too hard to let this fall apart. It's time to show everyone what we're made of."

With Lee's support and the unwavering commitment of his team, Wang Soo prepared to face the challenges ahead. The road was still fraught with obstacles, but for the first time in a long time, he felt truly ready to overcome them.

End of Chapter 11