Those eyes seem quite familiar, which adds to my confusion, as I know I have never encountered him face-to-face, apart from watching him on television a few weeks ago.

Those eyes flickered in my mind, in another context, but filled with contempt and derision, and all of a sudden, a severe ache begins in my head, causing my vision to become slightly blurred.

I begin to feel anxious in my mind because this is a public area, and I cannot risk having another incident here. I trip slightly, and I sense warm, strong hands holding me.

"Are you okay?" I listen through the fog I'm trying to escape from.

That voice... that touch... they resonate and feel incredibly familiar, and a sudden surge of pain and anger overwhelms me, prompting me to retract my hand as if I were burnt; perhaps I was, as I struggled to manage the whirlwind of feelings coursing through me.

"I'm okay, thanks." I gently respond and move one leg after the other. Before long, I depart from the Jang Food Industry building.

I strolled for several blocks to clear my mind. It was effective, as the air felt quite fresh and the weather was exceptionally bright.

My mood shifted almost instantly. As soon as I felt improved, I hailed a cab and went home.

I have been quite steady with my therapy sessions over the last week and I feel significantly improved.

The nightmares have decreased somewhat, and I have been resting more effectively, which has enhanced my well-being and mood.

I had at last been summoned for an interview with Jang Food Industries. I could hardly hold back my enthusiasm.

I informed Mr. Han about the news, and he was just as pleased for me as I am. He motivated me to give my all, assuring me that I would definitely land the job.

I entered the building with a big grin spread across my face, making my way to the receptionist's desk.

"Good morning, miss. I'm present for the interview." "I received a phone call." I smiled at her and said.

She appeared to be feeling happy today as she smiled in return and responded.

"Good morning and welcome to Jang Food Industries, what is your name?"

"I am Miso... Miso Kang."

She glanced at several documents before addressing me.

"You are contestant number 12." Kindly use the elevator to reach the 10th floor. "Someone will be present to guide you."

"Thanks a lot."

I stroll to the elevator, pressing the button immediately after I arrive.

"Kindly wait", I hear just as the elevator is about to shut.

I hold the elevator door as a young woman roughly my age rushes in with a breathless "thank you" and then begins to use the mirror inside the elevator to adjust her hair and makeup.

Observing her, I understand that I didn't apply any particular makeup since I aimed to maintain a professional appearance.

I ensured my hair was styled in a high ponytail and applied lip balm to keep my lips hydrated. I chose not to allow myself to feel intimidated.

I glance around in an attempt to divert my attention and suddenly experience what I would refer to as a déjà vu, as it feels like I've been on this elevator before.

I arrive on the 10th floor and notice others sitting outside an office, so without delay, I shift my bag on my shoulders and head over to join them, and shortly after, someone gives me my tag.

I positioned myself next to two women who were speaking quietly.

I'm just about to pull my phone from my bag to message Mr. Han and inform him that I've entered the building safely when I hear the name 'Yiso', causing me to inadvertently listen in on their discussion.

"Why do you suppose the other secretary left her position, not that I'm upset about it, but it's Jang Food Industries... one of the largest food companies here in New York City." The girl wearing tag no 9 speaks softly.

"I realize it's quite unbelievable because during Yiso's time leading the company, I don't believe I ever came across any job openings advertised, even though I'm truly grateful for this chance." The woman next to her, whom I believe has tag number 10, responds.

"I heard that Karen let her go and declined to collaborate with her. Can you envision that everything occurred following Yiso's passing?"

"I don't mean to be negative, but I'm not a fan of Karen." She doesn't come across as a pleasant individual; however, the salary is appealing, and that's the reason I'm here, to be completely honest" they continue talking

Their discussion is cut short when candidate no 9 is summoned, and I sit there pondering why everyone holds one or two odd views regarding the Jang Food Industry.

Although I haven't met Karen face to face, I've never heard anyone say anything positive about her, which makes me somewhat uneasy about working here if I secure the position.

Shortly after, my number is announced and I promptly rise to enter for my interview. As I near the door, an unexpected chill envelops me, and the only thought echoing in my mind is to flee!

My hands start trembling, so I grasped the doorknob.

"Are you okay?" I recognized it was the woman who gave me my tag.

Fortunately, her voice aids me in regaining my composure, and I eventually unlock the door and enter.

The woman scheduled to interview me has her back facing me, holding a mobile phone to her right ear.

"Good morning, ma'am." I say.

"Take a seat." She responds swiftly and return to her phone call.

"We're short on time, Marshall," I hear her say, her voice filled with urgency.

I can't hear the man clearly on the other end, but it appeared she was not pleased with his words.

The phone call seems to last forever, and I simply remain standing.

She quickly pivots, and I inhale sharply upon realizing that the individual interviewing me is none other than Karen.

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Chapter 9 Unfamiliar Familiarity

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