New city

Two days into Florida and things so far have been great, but today is the day that I've been looking forward to. The only thing that brought me here in Tempa Florida, first day of work. I woke up feeling energized and ready for the life-changing career, I got ready got everything I needed, and headed out waiting for Levi to pick me up. I'm kind of glad that he's willing to help me and show me the ways of American people but something about him just gives me major Déjà Vu.

Once we got to the tech company where I was going to be Levi showed me around and I got my badge, but before showing me where I was going to work he took me to the top floor where the CEO's office was located and to my surprise the CEO was Levi's father. I mean it does make sense why he owns almost every luxury item you can think of.

"This is Tae, the guy I was telling you about Pa." He introduced me, "Welcome, I'm so glad to have you as our new department director." He stated. "Department director?" I questioned, "Yup there are 4 departments there's, computer programmers, coding, game designers, and the cinematic arts department." He listed.

"So I'm in charge of all of those departments?" I asked, "Basically but not fully, you're just there to manage stuff before sending it up to me or the CEO." He stated, guess I should've asked more questions before coming here. I mean I love the opportunity but I just wanted a simple programming job not to manage a whole company.

"Now let me show you to your office, it'll be so amazing!" He rejoiced as he locked his arm into mine and dragged me down to the 5 floor. As we walked to my office, Levi couldn't contain his excitement, pointing out various features of the building and introducing me to some of my future colleagues along the way. Despite feeling overwhelmed by the sudden responsibility thrust upon me, I couldn't help but admire the sleek design of the office and the vibrant energy that filled the air.

When we finally arrived at my office, I was taken aback by its spaciousness and modern decor. Levi gestured proudly at the sleek desk and state-of-the-art computer setup.

"This is where the magic happens, Tae!" he exclaimed, a wide grin spreading across his face.

I forced a smile, trying to mask my apprehension about the daunting task ahead of me. Managing multiple departments under the watchful eye of Levi's father, the CEO, was no small feat, and I knew I had my work cut out for me.

"Thanks, Levi. I really appreciate all your help," I said sincerely, grateful for his guidance despite my misgivings.

As Levi left to attend to his own responsibilities, I sank into the plush chair behind my desk, feeling a mix of excitement and trepidation about the journey ahead. It was clear that this job was going to be a challenge, but I was determined to rise to the occasion and make the most of this opportunity in sunny Tampa, Florida.

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As I stroll through the park with William and his boyfriend, I can't help but feel grateful for their presence in my life. The vibrant colors of the flowers and the lush greenery around us create a serene atmosphere. William's laughter fills the air, and I can't help but smile at his infectious energy. His boyfriend walks beside us, and I admire the easy affection between them. The sunlight filters through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the path ahead. As we walk, I feel a sense of belonging and warmth, knowing that I'm surrounded by friends who care about me.

"I'm tired let's take a seat over here," Cam said as he sat down on a park bench, "great idea," I added as I sat next to him. "You should get us some ice cream at the ice cream truck Willy." I told him, "So I have to do all the walking?!" He questioned, "Yup!" Cam and I agreed. He sighed as he walked away pouting.

"He can be so hard to handle sometimes." Cam stated, "Trust me I know, I grew up with him." I giggled. "But overall his a great person, I'm so glad he found a person like you." I added, "I'm so glad I met you because of him, you're Definitely my person." He smiled as he laid his head on my shoulders. "You are definitely my person," I added followed by a chuckle.

If only life was like this from the beginning, I would've been in a much better place. "So how about you, have you officially met someone yet?" He asked, "Don't mind me, I logged out of the dating business a long time ago." "I've grown sick and tired of man, I'm just focusing on myself right now."

As we sat on the park bench, enjoying the warmth of the sun and the tranquility of the moment, I couldn't help but reflect on my own journey and the twists and turns life had taken me through. Cam's presence beside me brought a sense of comfort and stability, grounding me in the present moment.

His question about my dating life brought a wistful smile to my lips. Dating had always been a tumultuous rollercoaster for me, filled with highs and lows, heartbreaks and fleeting connections. But lately, I have found solace in solitude, focusing on self-discovery and personal growth.

"I hear you," he replied, a hint of resignation in his voice. "Sometimes it feels like the dating scene is just a never-ending cycle of disappointment and frustration. I've learned to embrace being single and prioritize my own happiness and well-being."

Cam nodded understandingly, his eyes reflecting empathy and understanding. "You're doing the right thing, Jin," he said softly. "Taking time for yourself and investing in your own growth is so important. The right person will come along when the time is right, and until then, you've got yourself."

His words resonated deeply with me, reminding me of the importance of self-love and acceptance. At that moment, sitting in the park with a dear friend by my side, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. Maybe I didn't need to actively seek out love or validation from others. Perhaps the greatest love of all was the one I could cultivate within myself.

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Tar's pov:

Later in the evening once I got off work Levi tried to offer me a ride but I kindly declined, if I was going to live in a city I didn't know I was not going to depend on him. I need to learn my way around by myself, also being around Levi just brings back unwanted memories of Jin. It's like everything he does around me reminds me of Jin.

"Are you sure you don't want me to take you home?" He asked, I nodded my head in agreement. The last thing I need is for him to get attached to me, so it's best if I just keep it professional. "Yup I'll just call a cab, you also don't have to wait for me, I'm sure ur busy." I replied, "No it's fine I have nothing planned, I'll just wait until ur can get here." He insisted, guess there was no getting rid of him. "Were you by chance seeing anyone back in Korea?" He asked, "Why is he asking me this kind of question?" I thought.

I looked over at him as he looked up at me with his lit-up doe eyes waiting for an answer and I could tell he was hoping it'd be a no. "no, I'm not really into relationships." I replied, "So you're a one-night stand kind of guy?" He questioned, "Do I look like some fuck boy to him? Till this day I'm still a virgin." "No, I'm not interested in any type of relationship with anyone," I told him. "So you've never been in a relationship?" I nodded my head, "So that means you're still a virgin?!" He gasped. "Wow, that's a surprise, to think a guy like you has never had sex."

As Levi continued to probe into my personal life, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of discomfort. His questions felt invasive like he was prying into areas of my life that I wasn't ready to share. I shifted uncomfortably away from him, searching for a polite way to deflect his inquiries.

"Yeah, I guess you could say I'm not really interested in that aspect of life," I replied, trying to keep my tone casual despite the awkwardness of the conversation. "I've always been more focused on my career and personal goals."

Levi nodded understandingly, but I could see the curiosity still lingering in his eyes. It was clear that he couldn't fathom the idea of someone not being interested in romantic relationships or physical intimacy. But for me, it was a choice I had made long ago, one that felt right for me and my journey.

Once he finally stopped asking questions we stood there waiting for my cab and it felt like an eternity, as I checked my phone to see how far it was I heard a loud shout from a distance and suddenly a person bumped into me making me drop my phone.

"Oh my god, I'm so sorry!" The guy panicked as he picked up my phone and the screen was totally destroyed, "it's okay, it's just a mere mistake." I said as I grabbed my phone away from him and placed it in my pocket. "Can't you watch where you going, look what you have done are you going to pay for his phone?!" Levi exclaimed, "It's okay, it's not a big deal." I held him back from doing anything stupid. I mean I appreciated the help but if I'm not bothered by it why is he so bothered?

"How much does your phone cost I can transfer the money to you," a familiar voice said as they walked up to us, I looked over and it was Jin. Today is not my day, I mean how can so many overwhelming things happen to me in one whole day running into him was also the last thing I needed but I guess god is not on my side today. "I said it's fine and I don't need anyone's money." I told him, "Let's go," he grabbed the guy's arm and walked away but he was still looking at me with a somewhat angry and sad expression.

Are you okay?" Levi's voice cut through my thoughts, pulling me back to the present moment. I forced a smile, trying to reassure him that everything was fine, even though turmoil churned beneath the surface.

"Yeah, I'm fine," I replied, my voice sounding hollow even to my own ears. "I just want to get home."

Levi nodded sympathetically, but I could tell he sensed something was off. Despite his probing gaze, I couldn't bring myself to confide in him about the complex web of emotions that Jin's appearance had stirred within me.

As we waited in silence for my cab to arrive, I couldn't help but replay the encounter with Jin over and over in my mind. The way he had looked at me with those familiar eyes, filled with a mixture of regret and longing, left me feeling raw and vulnerable.

To be continued