ChronoScribe

Ahn Jihun had one simple goal in life: do the bare minimum at work, collect his paycheck, and go home to eat instant ramen in peace. But somehow, the universe has other plans.

One moment, he’s a nobody struggling to stay awake at his office desk—next, he’s forced onto a special project with a corporate overachiever who actually enjoys working (sickening). Add in a terrifying boss, a best friend who gives the worst advice, and a series of increasingly ridiculous events, and suddenly, Jihun’s life is looking less like a slice-of-life and more like a poorly written sitcom.

Between fake promotions, workplace disasters, and the constant threat of having to try, Jihun is starting to think he’s the main character of a cosmic joke.

Whatever happens next, one thing is certain—he absolutely did not sign up for this.

I didn’t Sign Up for This!

The Meeting of Doom

Ahn Jihun had exactly two goals every day at work:

Unfortunately, today, he was failing both.

Jihun stared at the email on his screen, horrified.

Subject: Mandatory Team Meeting - 2 PM

All employees are required to attend this meeting to discuss company productivity and performance strategies. Please be prepared to contribute.

Jihun turned to Nayoung, his voice barely above a whisper. "Why does this email sound like a threat?"

Nayoung skimmed it. "Because it is a threat. Manager Kang wants 'employee participation,' which means we actually have to talk."

Jihun clutched his chest. "No. That's not my role here. I'm here to take up space and nod occasionally."

"Then you'd better practice your best nodding skills, because this meeting is going to be painful."

Before Jihun could process his impending doom, Taesung walked up, holding his coffee like a victorious warrior. "Ready for the meeting?"

Jihun glared. "Did you know about this?"

Taesung smirked. "Of course. Unlike you, I read company emails."

Jihun narrowed his eyes. "Disgusting behavior."

Taesung ignored him. "Since we're working on the project together, you'll have to say something during the discussion."

Jihun gasped. "No. Absolutely not."

"If you try to run, I will drag you back."

Jihun sighed. "You know, Taesung, this whole 'efficiency' thing you do—it's very toxic."

Taesung chuckled. "And your whole 'doing nothing' thing—it's very concerning."

By 1:59 PM, the conference room was packed. Jihun sat in the farthest seat, hoping he could blend into the background.

Manager Kang stood at the front, his usual I love productivity face on full display. "Alright, let's get started."

Jihun immediately started his three-step survival strategy for pointless meetings:

He furrowed his brows and nodded slightly, pretending to be intensely engaged.

Jihun opened his notebook and began scribbling random words. (Right now, he was writing: help me, I want to go home.)

Step 3: Avoid Eye Contact at All Costs.

He stared at the table like it held the secrets of the universe.

Everything was going well—until Manager Kang spoke the most terrifying words known to mankind.

"Jihun, what are your thoughts on this?"

The room fell silent. Everyone turned to him.

Jihun's brain went into emergency mode. Think. Say something smart. Anything.

He cleared his throat. "Well, you see… productivity is… an important concept… in the workplace…"

Jihun swallowed. "And… uh… when it comes to performance strategies… we must, um… strategically perform…"

Nayoung kicked him under the table.

Jihun panicked. "In a way that is… both… performative and strategic!"

Taesung closed his eyes like he was in pain.

Then, to everyone's shock—Manager Kang nodded. "Interesting perspective. We'll come back to that."

Jihun exhaled. Holy crap, that actually worked.

Taesung whispered, "That was the most nonsense I've ever heard in my life."

Jihun grinned. "And yet, I survived."

Taesung shook his head. "You are a menace."

Jihun sat back, satisfied. Another day, another meeting successfully wasted.

Chapter- 6