Chapter 11

Chapter 11

Jamie surveyed his newly revamped room with a satisfied gaze. The transformation was nothing short of remarkable. The bland space had been replaced with a stylish and comfortable retreat that echoed his tastes and preferences. It wasn't quite like his old apartment, but it was close enough to make him feel at home in this unfamiliar world.

The emptiness of his previous life as Kim Min Jamie had been starkly different from the spotlight he once enjoyed. The contrast between his past and present existence gnawed at him, making him yearn for the life he once had—where he was someone of significance. The isolation and being overlooked were jarring for someone accustomed to admiration and influence. But the new room provided a semblance of comfort and familiarity, a small consolation for the profound changes he faced.

The next morning, Jamie, accompanied by a bodyguard at his mother's insistence, made his way to class. His mother's concern about his safety was an inconvenience more than anything else. She was content with the assurance that her husband had promised protection to their son. The bodyguard, though, was a constant reminder of his precarious situation.

Jamie's day began on a positive note with his favorite subject. The theories and discussions were a refreshing change from the grim reality he was navigating. His interest in art—especially the works of Van Gogh and Ante Badzim—remained a cherished part of his life. He had collected their art in his previous world and used it as inspiration for his game. It was a source of pride for him that his quiz, inspired by his love for conspiracy and art, had resonated with players of all ages. It had helped fuel his creativity and contributed to the success of his game.

As he settled into his classes and engaged with his interests, Jamie found solace in the familiar elements of his past life. They were small anchors of normalcy in an otherwise tumultuous period.

As Jamie navigated his new life, he found himself reflecting on the contrast between his past and present selves. In his previous existence as Lee Gongyun, he was celebrated not only for his artistic prowess but also for his philanthropic efforts. His artworks graced prestigious galleries across Seoul and beyond, and his foundations provided aid to children, the elderly, and stray animals. His passion for helping others was deeply ingrained in his being. Empathy and sympathy were his driving forces, fueling his desire to make a positive impact on the world.

However, as Kim Min Jamie, Jamie understood that survival required a shift in priorities. The values that once defined him had to be recalibrated to fit the harsh realities of his new life. The lessons from his past mistakes were clear: to reach the top and secure his position, he needed to embrace a more selfish approach. He had to prioritize his own needs and ambitions, navigating a world where self-preservation came first.

Jamie's focus was now on building a network of reliable individuals who could help him achieve his goals. Trust was paramount; he needed people who would support him and contribute to his rise without becoming liabilities. His family's disregard and the lack of close personal connections left him in a precarious position. His past life's reliance on a supportive network had transformed into a solitary path, where the absence of meaningful relationships had both its advantages and drawbacks.

In this new life, Jamie's approach was strategic. He was determined to gather resources and allies who would be instrumental in his journey to the top. His past experiences as a soloist had honed his ability to rely on himself, but he recognized the need for careful, calculated relationships. Each step forward required meticulous planning and unwavering focus. Distractions were a luxury he could not afford, especially as he worked to solidify his place in a world that had initially seemed so indifferent.

As he continued to navigate his dual existence, Jamie remained ever-conscious of the balancing act between self-interest and the need for trusted companions. His past had shaped him, but the present demanded a new set of rules. With every decision and every interaction, he worked to ensure that he remained steadfast on his path to success, using his past experiences as a guide while adapting to the demands of his new reality.

Jamie sank into the cozy armchair by the glass wall, feeling the sunlight warm his face like a spotlight on a stage just for him. His casual outfit—a plain black hoodie and tattered jeans—was a stark contrast to the polished appearance he usually maintained. The hoodie's hood was pulled low over his forehead, casting a shadow that made him look both nonchalant and drowsy. His bodyguard, a new recruit, was stationed discreetly in the vicinity as per Jamie's instructions, keeping a respectful distance rather than shadowing him.

Cherry Blossoms was a popular spot on campus, renowned for its inviting atmosphere. The coffee shop was bustling with students, a testament to its reputation. The space was well-designed, featuring a second floor with an excellent view and a variety of seating options—sofas adorned with cute lanterns, and an area dedicated to tea service. It was the kind of place Jamie found appealing, a perfect blend of comfort and style.

As Jamie sipped on his butterscotch drink, he admired the shop's aesthetic. The barista had greeted him warmly, adding a personal touch to his visit. Now, settled in his preferred spot, he pulled out his iPad and navigated to the application he had developed during his time in seclusion.

The app, an advanced tool for creating AI visuals, was a proud accomplishment. It had served him well in his previous life, and he was eager to see how it performed in this new chapter. As he began to explore its features, the sunlight streaming in through the glass wall seemed to enhance his focus, casting a golden glow over his work.

Jamie's mind was a whirlwind of thoughts and plans. The comfort of the coffee shop and the satisfaction of a well-made drink provided a brief respite from his ongoing efforts to adapt and thrive in this new life. His goal was clear: to harness the power of his past experiences and present resources to build a secure and successful future.

In moments like these, amidst the bustling energy of Cherry Blossoms and the warmth of his chosen spot, Jamie felt a flicker of contentment. It was a reminder that even in a world that had initially felt so alien, he could carve out a space for himself, blending the old with the new, and finding solace in the familiar comforts he once cherished.

End of chapter 11.