Unexpected Connections

It was another day at the office, and Eun-tae was diligently working through his tasks. With Hei-ran's meticulous planning and support, his workload has been more manageable lately, allowing him to focus on strategic decisions. The efficiency and organization she brought to his professional life were undeniable, and Eun-tae found himself growing increasingly appreciative of her role as his secretary.

However, amidst the usual hustle and bustle of the workday, an unexpected disruption occurred. Eun-tae's phone rang, its shrill tone cutting through the ambient office noise. He glanced at the caller ID, noting that the call was from an international number, specifically Germany. It wasn't common for him to receive calls from overseas, especially ones that required his immediate attention.

Curiosity piqued, Eun-tae answered the call, and the receptionist from the building's front desk informed him that a foreign gentleman was on the line, requesting to speak with him directly. The receptionist emphasized that the caller seemed insistent on discussing matters with Eun-tae personally.

With a sense of intrigue and a touch of curiosity, Eun-tae instructed the receptionist to transfer the call to his office line. As he awaited the connection, he couldn't help but wonder what this unexpected call from Germany might entail. The realm of business was filled with surprises, and Eun-tae was always prepared to navigate the unexpected, even if it disrupted the usual flow of his workday.

Eun-tae picked up the phone, expecting to converse in English, the universal language of business. However, to his surprise, the man on the other end of the line greeted him warmly in Korean.

"Hello," the man said in Korean, catching Eun-tae off guard. Eun-tae quickly adjusted to the unexpected turn of events.

"Hello," Eun-tae replied in Korean, his curiosity growing as the conversation continued.

"My name is Kim Min-jun and I represent the International Art Preservation Consortium (IAPC)," the caller introduced himself, a Korean working for an organization based in Germany.

He explained that their organization had been following the development of InnoArtTech's innovative product, which aimed to digitally preserve and redefine how people perceived art. They were particularly intrigued by the potential of this technology, as they sought to apply it to an iconic historical art piece.

"We are fascinated by the possibilities your product offers," Min-jun explained. "Our organization is currently involved in the preservation and restoration of historical artworks. In future, we are focusing on the restoration of Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece, the 'Mona Lisa.'"

Eun-tae couldn't help but be captivated by the gravity of the situation. The "Mona Lisa" is undoubtedly one of the most famous and revered artworks in the world. Its preservation and restoration were not just any project but a cultural and historical undertaking of immense significance.

As the conversation continued, Eun-tae realized the potential impact of a collaboration between InnoArtTech and Min-jun's organization. Preserving such an iconic piece of art using their innovative technology would be a remarkable achievement, and it could open up new avenues for the company's growth and recognition on the global stage.

Eun-tae, intrigued by the prospect of collaboration and the potential benefits it could bring, shared his enthusiasm with Min-jun. "This sounds like a fascinating project, and I believe it could be mutually beneficial. To discuss this further and coordinate a meeting, I'll refer you to my secretary, Ms. Bae Hei-ran. She'll assist in scheduling a suitable time for us to delve into the details."

Min-jun expressed his gratitude, and with that, their conversation concluded. Eun-tae returned to his ongoing work, his thoughts now divided between his responsibilities and the exciting possibilities of an international collaboration that could not only benefit the company but also elevate Korea's reputation on a global scale.

Eun-tae was in the process of packing up his work when a knock at his door interrupted him. Hei-ran stood there, her expression professional yet determined. She asked if he had a moment to discuss the collaboration with IAPC that had been initiated earlier.

"Of course, Hei-ran. Please, have a seat at your desk, and I'll join you shortly," setting aside his packing for a moment, Eun-tae nodded.

After organizing his things, Eun-tae made his way over to Hei-ran's desk, curiosity in his eyes. Hei-ran started to brief him on the progress of the collaboration with IAPC.

"Mr. Kim and I had a conversation earlier. It went very well, and we've agreed to collaborate with IAPC."

"That's fantastic, Ms. Bae. Your efforts are truly commendable," Eun-tae couldn't help but smile at the positive news.

However, Hei-ran's next revelation took him by surprise. She leaned forward slightly, her tone professional and composed as she shared the unexpected details.

"The meeting with IAPC is scheduled to take place in Leipzig, Germany, and it's set for next week."

"Leipzig? Next week? Why wasn't I consulted about this sudden development?" Eun-tae's eyes widened in astonishment, and he asked.

"Mr. Kim himself requested this meeting. It's the only time slot that aligns with their busy schedule, and they've stressed that postponement isn't an option. In return for our flexibility, they've offered to cover all expenses, including our flights and accommodations. Additionally, they're eager to incorporate our product into the meeting and discussion, hence the urgency," Hei-ran calmly clarified the situation.

"I see. Given the circumstances, Ms. Bae, please proceed with making the necessary arrangements for our trip. We can't afford to miss this opportunity. Keep me updated on any developments," Understanding the gravity of the situation, Eun-tae sighed, realizing that the collaboration was progressing even faster than he had anticipated.

As Eun-tae contemplated the upcoming trip to Germany, he felt a mix of anticipation and unease. The success of this collaboration was crucial, and he knew that everything had to go smoothly in Leipzig to secure the partnership with IAPC.

During the drive back home, Eun-tae couldn't help but be consumed by the impending trip to Germany. His thoughts swirled around the logistics of putting together a team at such short notice. He knew that selecting the right individuals with the necessary skills and availability would be no small task.

As he navigated the city streets, his mind raced with questions. Who could he trust to represent InnoArtTech effectively? Who possessed the skills needed for the discussions with IAPC? Were these team members available for an international trip on such short notice?

But there was another matter weighing on his mind, one that filled him with both excitement and trepidation. How would A-ri react to this sudden development? He knew he needed to tell her about the trip, and soon. They had always shared their plans and dreams, but this one felt different. It was a significant opportunity for the company, but it also meant he would be away from her for a while.

Eun-tae's thoughts became increasingly tangled as he drove closer to home. He knew that facing A-ri with this news would be a challenge, and he couldn't predict how she would react.

As Eun-tae arrived home, A-ri greeted him with a warm smile that instantly melted away his worries. The scent of a delicious meal filled the air, and Eun-tae felt a sense of comfort wash over him. They sat down to dinner, and Eun-tae began to share the news of the unexpected collaboration opportunity with IAPC.

A-ri's eyes sparkled with excitement as she listened to Eun-tae's description of the potential collaboration. She was genuinely thrilled that Eun-tae and InnoArtTech were making strides on the international stage. However, she couldn't help but notice the hint of regret in Eun-tae's voice.

"What's bothering you, Eun-tae? This is incredible news," curious, A-ri set down her fork and looked at him.

"I know it's a great opportunity, and I'm excited about it, too. But the thing is, we won't be seeing each other for a while," Eun-tae sighed, realizing that he couldn't hide his feelings from A-ri.

A-ri initially chuckled, thinking he was being a bit dramatic. However, as she looked into his eyes, she saw the genuine longing hidden behind his words. She knew that she felt the same way, but in this moment, she needed to be a strong and supportive partner.

"I understand, Eun-tae," A-ri said, her smile unwavering. "Sometimes, we have to make sacrifices for the greater good. This collaboration will not only benefit you but also many others. We'll get through this, and before you know it, you'll be back home."

"Thank you, A-ri. I couldn't ask for a more amazing partner," Eun-tae couldn't help but feel grateful for A-ri's understanding and support. He reached across the table and took her hand.

They shared a moment of warmth and reassurance, knowing that their love and bond would carry them through this new chapter in their lives, even if it meant being apart for a while.

With their hands entwined, Eun-tae and A-ri finished their meal, savouring each moment together. As the evening wore on, they spent quality time, cherishing the simple pleasures of being in each other's company.

A-ri couldn't ignore the bittersweet feeling that lingered beneath the surface, but she pushed it aside, determined to be the pillar of strength that Eun-tae needed during this crucial time. They knew that challenges lay ahead, but they were prepared to face them head-on, with unwavering trust in their love and their shared dreams.