The next day came rushing in with many things to do, but the most important of all was the meeting with the American International business team. This team represents a well-established multinational automobile manufacturer recognised for its commitment to innovation and technological advancements in the automotive sector. They have made significant strides in developing electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid technologies, positioning themselves as leaders in the push for sustainable transportation solutions.
During the meeting, Phoenix's team was going to aim to explore various collaborative opportunities that could arise from this partnership. The American company brings a wealth of knowledge in areas such as advanced battery technology, autonomous driving systems, and smart vehicle connectivity. By leveraging these technologies, Phoenix could significantly enhance its product offerings, making them more competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
Furthermore, the potential collaboration could lead to joint ventures in research and development, allowing both businesses to share resources and expertise. This synergy could foster innovation, resulting in the creation of new vehicle models that meet the growing demand for eco-friendly and technologically advanced solutions. For Phoenix, this partnership could mean expanded market reach and improved their reputation, while the American manufacturer could benefit from increased sales and a stronger foothold in emerging markets. Ultimately, the meeting was going to hold the promise of a transformative alliance that could redefine the future of both companies in the automotive world.
Everyone from the Phoenix's main team was already gathered in the main meeting room, waiting patiently for the American guests to arrive. The atmosphere was thick with anticipation, each member of the team acutely aware of the significance of this meeting. Jin, the oldest member of the team, had taken on the responsibility of leading the discussion in Jae's absence. Jae was sent to attend another business meeting earlier in the morning, and he couldn't be able to make it for this one on time.
Jin stood at the front, his hands slightly trembling as he clutched his notes, rehearsing his speech in his mind. Despite his extensive knowledge of the project, the pressure of presenting in another language made him feel a wave of anxiety wash over him.
Minho, standing nearby, couldn't help but notice Jin's nervousness. He had always admired Jin's leadership qualities, but he knew that public speaking, especially in a second language, was a daunting task for him. Jin's brow was slightly furrowed, and his lips moved silently as he practiced his lines.
Minho had travelled abroad with his father several times, immersing himself in English-speaking environments, which had allowed him to pick up the language quickly. He remembered how overwhelming it felt at first, the fear of mispronouncing words or stumbling over sentences.
He then decided to step in and offer some reassurance, saying, "Hey, I... can lead the meeting today. I have prepared everything for the speech." With a warm smile, he tried to take the lead and help Jin relax during the meeting, sensing the tension.
Jin, taken aback by Minho's sudden confidence, furrowed his brow and asked, "Really? You sure you can do it?"
Minho nodded enthusiastically. With a reassuring pound on his chest, he replied, "Of course. I have already been abroad with my father, and I know the language pretty well. In fact, I even met those guys the last time I was there. My dad had a meeting with them discussing this deal at that time. So don't worry. I'll be fine, and besides, you will be right next to me during the meeting. If I miss anything or say false information, you can correct me anytime." He smiled again, his eyes sparkling with determination, encouraging Jin to trust him.
Jin hesitated, his mind racing with thoughts of potential pitfalls, but at that moment, the doors swung open, and the American guests walked in, their presence commanding attention. Jin took a deep breath and saw them, a hint of worry etched on his face. He turned back to Minho, a mix of anxiety and hope in his voice as he said, "Okay. Then, I will leave it to you." The hesitation lingered in his tone, but there was a glimmer of faith in Minho's ability to handle the situation.
Minho smiled and said, "Thanks!" Jin smiled back, feeling a wave of relief wash over him. Minho's confidence reassured him that everything would be under control. With a nod, Jin turned to welcome the guests, his heart lightened by Minho's readiness. As the guests took their seats, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation, and Minho positioned himself at the very front, feeling a mix of excitement and determination.
Minho's confidence stemmed from his last trip abroad, where he had the chance to engage with several members of the American team while his father was deep in discussions with the bosses. Those conversations had been enlightening. The team members shared their expectations and what they were truly looking for from Phoenix's business, providing Minho with a clearer picture of their goals. This insider knowledge fuelled his determination to impress.
The night before, Minho had meticulously crafted his speech, pouring his thoughts and insights onto the page. He wanted to convey not just the facts but also his passion for the business and his commitment to making this partnership work. As he stood there, ready to speak, he felt a surge of purpose. He was determined to show Jae and everyone else in the room that he was not just a junior member but a valuable asset to the team, ready to take on the challenges ahead. With a deep breath, he prepared to deliver his message, eager to make a lasting impression.
He then bowed and started talking in English, "Hello, everyone. I am pleased to see you all here. I will be the one to lead this meeting, and I aim to finalise our business arrangements." Minho's voice was steady, and he could feel the attention of the room shifting towards him. Then he continued, "As you are aware, our team has numerous partnerships in the automotive industry, and we are eager to strengthen and build more of those relationships. The USA multinational automobile manufacturer and delivery business firm was recommended to us for such a partnership. We can assure you that everything we do is legal and that nothing can tarnish your firm's reputation… " As he spoke, Jin stood on Minho's left, slightly behind him, a proud smile playing on his lips. He believed in Minho's capabilities and felt confident that Minho could really make this deal happen.
Minho continued his statement, outlining the main purpose of the meeting and the details of their contract. He articulated the goals they aimed to achieve together and highlighted the potential benefits for both parties involved. His words flowed smoothly, reflecting the preparation and thought he had put into his speech. He emphasised the importance of collaboration and how their partnership could lead to innovative solutions that would elevate Phoenix's business to new heights.
As he spoke, Minho maintained eye contact with the guests, gauging their reactions and adjusting his tone to keep them engaged. He could sense their interest growing, and with each point he made, he felt more assured that he was on the right path. This was not just about sealing a deal, it was about building lasting relationships and trust, and Minho was determined to convey that message clearly.
After Minho stopped talking, he bowed again, marking the end of his speech with a sense of finality. The room was filled with a palpable tension, the kind that often accompanies uncertainty. But as he straightened up, the atmosphere shifted dramatically. The American guests, who had entered the meeting with serious expressions and low expectations, suddenly stood up, their applause echoing in the room. The sound was unexpected yet uplifting, filling Minho with a mix of relief and pride.
The main boss of the team, a tall figure with an air of authority, stepped forward with a warm smile. "Thank you for your time!" he said, his voice resonating with sincerity. "I will make sure to talk to your boss and seal this deal firmly." His words were reassuring, and Minho felt a wave of accomplishment wash over him. He bowed again, a gesture of gratitude, and replied, "Thank you!" The simple phrase carried the weight of his hard work and dedication.
As he turned around, Minho's gaze landed on Jin, who was also clapping enthusiastically, his smile wide and genuine. In that moment, Minho felt a sudden rush of blush creeping onto his cheeks, a mix of pride and exhilaration at the recognition of his efforts. The warmth of Jin's support ignited a sense of achievement within him, and he realised that this was not just a personal victory but a shared one.
The other members of Phoenix's team escorted the American guests out of the meeting room, leaving Minho, Jin, and a few other members to erupt in cheers. The energy in the room was electric, a perfect reflection of the excitement that had just unfolded. One enthusiastic member shouted, "WOW, THAT WAS REALLY COOL, MINHO! They were so amazed by your performance!" His eyes sparkled with admiration, clearly impressed by Minho's ability to captivate the audience.
Another member chimed in, laughter bubbling up in their voice, "Yeah! Honestly, I think they agreed to do the partnership with us only because of you." The teasing tone was light-hearted, but it only added to Minho's embarrassment. He could feel his cheeks heating up as they continued to poke fun at him.
Jin, ever the playful instigator, giggled and added, "Yes, you're right. It's because of his charismatic voice and appearance that they fell directly for the deal." Minho's face turned a deeper shade of red at Jin's compliment, and without thinking, he instinctively hit Jin on the shoulder, exclaiming, "THAT'S NOT TRUE!" The room erupted into laughter, the sound echoing off the walls, creating a moment filled with joy and celebration that they would all remember.
But everything has always a bad side as well...
Jae was just back from his meeting, his mind still buzzing with the details of the important deal he had secured with a company for alcohol production. The agreement was crucial for Phoenix, as it involved promoting the brand to boost profits, but as he stepped into the meeting room, he quickly sensed that the atmosphere was charged with a different kind of excitement.
The members of Phoenix's team were still buzzing about the successful partnership with the American team, their laughter and cheers filling the air. Jae's entrance went unnoticed, his achievement overshadowed by the much more glamorous deal that Minho had just pulled off. Feeling a twinge of frustration, he walked further into the room, hoping for at least a nod of acknowledgment, but the energy was all focused on Minho.
As he stood there, listening to the playful banter and the compliments being thrown around, Jae felt a cold wave of disappointment wash over him. He took a deep breath, trying to mask his feelings, and finally said in a flat tone, "Good job, Minho." The words felt hollow, lacking enthusiasm. Without waiting for a response, he turned around and walked out of the room, determined to find the other members and perhaps gain some recognition for his own hard work, but the sting of being overlooked lingered in his thoughts.
Minho felt a deep sense of anger and disappointment welling up inside him as he processed Jae's dismissive behaviour. He had been putting in so much effort to fit in with the team, but it felt like no matter what he did, it would never be enough for Jae to let him in. His gaze fell to the ground, the weight of rejection pressing heavily on his shoulders.
Jin immediately noticed Minho's reaction to Jae's words and felt a surge of annoyance toward Jae's cold demeanour. "This asshole!" he exclaimed, frustration evident in his voice. Turning his attention to Minho, he placed a gentle hand on his shoulder, offering comfort. "Don't mind him! You did the job perfectly!" Jin's encouraging words were accompanied by a warm smile that radiated positivity. As Minho caught Jin's gaze, he felt a flicker of hope and warmth in his chest. "Thanks..." he replied, a genuine smile breaking through his earlier gloom as they shared a brief moment of eye contact, feeling a sense of joy that contrasted sharply with the earlier tension.
Just then, one of the other team members, eager to shift the mood, shouted, "So now... after our workout... let's go and celebrate!" The air filled with excitement as the rest of the members joined in, shouting "YES!" in unison. Their cheers echoed around the room, drowning out Jae's indifference. They had all come to accept Jae's cold personality over time, realising that it was just part of who he was. But in this moment, surrounded by the enthusiasm of his teammates, Minho felt a renewed sense of belonging and gratitude for Jin's support. The disappointment began to fade, replaced by the thrill of being part of something bigger, a team that stood together, no matter the challenges they faced.