A NEW MEMBER

** Episode 16 **

Si-woon entered the meeting room. He was the last to arrived, all the other members were already present, including Manager Ma. He found a empty chair and settled in, definitely the chair was waiting for him.

Already having this feeling of anticipation and confidence, he knew what the meeting was about. This moment is going to be the best of his life, he thought.

In a brief moment, Secretary Young-ran walked in, followed by Director Chow, who took his seat immediately while Young-ran did the same.

"I have a meeting to attend in thirty minutes, so I'll make this meeting brief." Director Chow began. "It has been a while since Min-Jun left us, and as you all know, he was once the leader of our group. With his absence, I've decided to elect a new candidate to lead us—someone who can take this group to new heights."

As Director Chow spoke about electing a new leader, Si-woon couldn't help but smile. He was certain that he was the best candidate for the position, especially now that Min-Jun was no longer around. Nothing could stand in his way. He couldn't stop blushing at the thought of being the new leader.

"I've chosen someone the public will love and accept instantly," Director Chow continued. "Someone talented, with an extraordinary presence, well-educated, and reasonable."

Si-woon's smile widened. The description fit him perfectly, and he felt a surge of excitement at the thought of finally claiming what he believed was rightfully his.

Director Chow glanced at Secretary Young-ran, who passed around a magazine. The other members began to look through it, but Si-woon felt no need to check; he was already confident in his standing. He stayed alarming and waited for someone if called his name or congratulate him but then....,

"What?" Gyeol exclaimed, his voice filled with disbelief, while the other members froze, their eyes fixed on Director Chow. Manager Ma, however, seemed to know what was coming, and Si-woon remained blissfully unaware, still smiling. Are they stunned to realize he's the one, he thought while smiling even more.

"Does this mean Kevin is the new candidate for the leadership position?" Gyeol asked, his voice rising.

The words hit Si-woon like a bolt of lightning. 'Kevin?' He hurriedly opened the magazine, flipping through the pages filled with pictures of the Korean and Canadian singer and model, Kevin Lee. The cover boldly proclaimed, "THE BEST CANDIDATE FOR THE LEADERSHIP POSITION OF NOVA X GROUP."

Immediately, that certainty and satisfied expression quickly turned into an angry one. "What is this?" Si-woon exclaimed, slamming the magazine down on the table in frustration. He stood up glaring directly at director Chow.

Director Chow wasn't expecting anything less from him either. He'd always know how he wanted Min-Jun position so desperately. It's a pity that he can never be that wish he so much desire.

"I've thought it through, and I know Kevin is the best candidate for this position," Director Chow explained. "He's handsome, talented, and educated. And all, he's a Canadian citizen, that's a good impact for the group. From the few times I've met him, I can tell he's respectful. "

"I possess all those qualities you mentioned. Why does it have to be someone from outside our group, a total stranger?" Si-woon challenged, his voice raising.

"True, he's a stranger now, but he will soon become one of us. With his status, he can help this company grow faster than we can imagine. Isn't that good news?" Director Chow replied and the others kinda find it convincing, except for Si Woon.

"He's on his way here already. Please, let's welcome him warmly when he finally comes." Director Chow added.

Just then, Secretary Young-ran walked to the door after a short phone call, she opened the door and announce the arrival of Kevin.

"Great! Bring him in," Director Chow said excitedly.

Handsome and elegant, Kevin walked into the meeting room with an air of confidence.

Si-woon felt a pang of jealousy and resentment at once, noticing Kevin striking presence.

Director Chow introduce him one more time and as well, he introduce himself.

"Hello, I'm Kevin Lee, your new leader. I'm glad to be one of you and promise to make this group stronger and more influential in positive ways. And thanks for having me into the group." He said, earning applause from Manager Ma, Director Chow, and Young-ran. The other members followed expect Si Woon.

"Leader? Go to hell," Si-woon muttered under his breath, feeling the anger boil within him. He stood up and stormed out of the meeting room, causing Kevin's smile to fade as he turned to the other members, who looked equally concerned.

*****

Si-woon barged into Director Chow's office, his frustration boiling over. He'd tried to keep calm about it but it wasn't working. The thought of it, after successfully taking Min-Jun at of the picture, now this. Secretary Young-ran tried to stop him, but he pushed past her.

"Leave us," Director Chow ordered, definitely expecting Si-woon's unpleasant visit. He sat down, ready to hear what Si-woon had to say.

"Yes, sir," Secretary Young-ran replied, stepping out.

"How could you do this? How could you bring a total stranger to lead us?" Si-woon demanded.

"Because no one else was fit for the position," Director Chow replied calmly.

He got even angry hearing director chow saying it at his face. "I know they aren't fit, but what about me? Am I not the best option?" Si-woon pressed trying hard to make him change his discussion.

"As I said, no one was fit, not even you," Director Chow stated firmly.

"Then how can you be sure a total stranger is the right choice?" Si-woon challenged.

"Because he has a good reputation, unlike you, who barged in here without even knocking, like a dog looking for a bone that isn't meant him." He stroke. He was going to make it easy for Si Woon at first but since he doesn't want like it easy, he switched.

Excuse me, I was heading somewhere important before you badge in." Director Chow added. With that, he stands up and walked out leaving Si Woon in his pains.

Si woon walk out angrily. He hit the door closed hardly and groaned hitting his hand on the wall severally.