Rise of Silent Genius

The string of rejections had worn Wang Soo down, but his determination remained intact. He woke up every morning with the same ritual: coffee, emails, and a growing stack of rejection letters. Each company's response was eerily similar—praising his skills but citing him as "overqualified." His brilliance, once a source of pride, now seemed like a curse.

A Quiet Morning at Home

Wang Soo sat at the kitchen table, scrolling through job postings on his laptop. The sunlight streamed through the window, casting warm rays on Bruno, who was sprawled across the floor, snoring softly. The faint clink of dishes in the sink signaled Lee's presence, and the aroma of fresh tea wafted through the air.

Lee walked in, holding a steaming mug of tea. She leaned against the counter, observing him quietly for a moment. "Any luck?" she finally asked.

He shook his head, rubbing his temples. "Same story every time. They say I'm too good for the position. It's like being competent is a crime."

Lee placed her hand on his shoulder, her grip firm yet reassuring. "They're intimidated, Soo. They don't know how to handle someone like you."

"Intimidated or not, it doesn't help us pay the bills," he muttered, shutting the laptop with more force than necessary. The frustration was evident in his voice.

Lee walked over and placed the tea beside him before sitting down. "You're more than this, Soo. You've built entire brands from scratch. If they can't see your worth, that's on them, not you."

He sighed, his shoulders slumping. "I just didn't think it'd be this hard. After everything..."

"You've always found a way," Lee said, her tone resolute. "And you will this time too. You're not alone in this."

That afternoon, Wang Soo met Mako at a small café downtown. The atmosphere was cozy, the gentle hum of conversations blending with the soothing sound of an espresso machine. Mako, always punctual, was already seated at a corner table, a latte untouched in front of him.

Wang Soo approached with a faint smile, the weight of guilt evident in his posture. "Hey, Mako. Sorry to keep you waiting."

Mako waved it off with a casual shrug. "No problem. Sit down."

As soon as Wang Soo took his seat, the lighthearted air vanished. Mako's expression turned serious, and he leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table. "Look, Soo, I hate to bring this up, but we need to talk about the money."

Wang Soo's chest tightened. He nodded, bracing himself. "I know, Mako. I'm working on it."

Mako sighed, his eyes filled with a mix of understanding and worry. "I'm not trying to pressure you, but... I've got a situation. The mortgage on my house is overdue, and the bank's breathing down my neck. If I don't pay up soon, I could lose the house."

Wang Soo felt a pang of guilt so sharp it nearly took his breath away. "Mako, I'm so sorry. I never meant for this to happen. You've been nothing but patient with me."

"I know you didn't," Mako said, his tone softening. "But I need you to understand how urgent this is. If there's anything you can do... anything at all..."

Wang Soo nodded, his mind racing for solutions. "I'll figure something out. I promise. Just give me a little more time."

Mako exhaled deeply, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly. "Alright. I trust you, Soo. Don't let me down."

Days later, Wang Soo found himself in yet another corporate office. The room was sleek and modern, a stark contrast to his current reality. The HR manager, a polished woman in her early thirties, greeted him with a professional smile and invited him into her office.

The interview started off well. Wang Soo confidently answered questions, showcasing his extensive experience and presenting an impressive portfolio. The HR manager nodded along, her initial interest apparent. But as the conversation progressed, her demeanor subtly shifted.

"Mr. Wang," she began, folding her hands neatly on the desk, "your credentials are... impressive. Perhaps too impressive for this role."

Wang Soo's heart sank. "What do you mean?"

"We're looking for someone who can grow into the position," she explained, her tone measured. "Your experience and skill set exceed what we're looking for."

He forced a smile, though his frustration simmered beneath the surface. "I'm willing to adapt, even take a step back if necessary. I just want the opportunity to contribute."

The HR manager offered a sympathetic smile. "I appreciate your enthusiasm, but we've decided to move forward with another candidate."

Wang Soo nodded stiffly, thanking her for her time before leaving the office. The rejection stung, not for the first time, but it didn't dull the ache of disappointment as he stepped out into the bustling street. Each rejection chipped away at his resolve, but he refused to let it break him completely.

That evening, Wang Soo sat on the balcony of his apartment, gazing out at the city lights. The skyline was dotted with twinkling windows, a reminder of the lives bustling on, unaware of his struggles. Bruno rested his head on Wang Soo's lap, his warm presence a balm to the storm raging in his heart.

Lee joined him, carrying two cups of tea. She handed him one before settling beside him. "Rough day?" she asked, her voice gentle but knowing.

"You could say that," he replied, absently stroking Bruno's fur. "It's like every door I knock on slams shut in my face."

Lee sipped her tea, her gaze steady. "You've been knocked down before, Soo. And every time, you've gotten back up. This is no different."

He looked at her, the determination in her eyes sparking a faint glimmer of hope in his chest. "Maybe you're right. Maybe I just need to find another way."

"Not maybe," she said firmly. "Definitely."

Wang Soo took a deep breath, the resolve in his heart solidifying. "Alright. No more wallowing. Tomorrow, I start fresh."

Lee smiled, leaning her head on his shoulder. "That's the Wang Soo I know."

Bruno let out a contented sigh, and for the first time in weeks, Wang Soo felt a sliver of peace. The road ahead was uncertain, but he knew one thing: he wasn't walking it alone.

The next morning, Wang Soo was startled by a knock at the door. Lee's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Kim, stood outside with warm smiles and a sense of purpose in their demeanor.

"Good morning, Wang Soo," Mr. Kim said as he stepped inside, carrying an envelope. "We've been talking, and we know about the financial troubles you've been facing."

Wang Soo's face flushed with embarrassment. "Sir, I appreciate your concern, but I can't let you—"

Mrs. Kim interrupted gently, placing a reassuring hand on his arm. "You're family, Soo. And family helps each other. We've settled your debts."

He stared at them in shock, his throat tightening. "I... I don't know what to say. Thank you doesn't feel like enough."

Mr. Kim smiled warmly. "Just keep working hard. You have potential, Wang Soo, and we believe in you."

Mrs. Kim added, "We also want you and Lee to move into the family house. It'll ease the burden on both of you and give you a stable environment to start fresh."

Wang Soo glanced at Lee, who nodded encouragingly. Overwhelmed by gratitude, he bowed deeply. "Thank you. I promise I won't let you down."

The Kims stayed for breakfast, their presence filling the apartment with warmth and hope. For the first time in weeks, Wang Soo felt the weight on his shoulders lighten. With their support and Lee by his side, he was ready to rebuild his life.

End of Chapter 3