Original subtitles

[alarm beeps]

[theme music playing]

THIS IS A WORK OF FICTION

CHILD ACTORS WERE FILMED SAFELY WITH SUPERVISION

Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa.

You wanna hit me?

Yeah, hit me in front of all these people watching.

Forgive me, but Ms. Choi and Mr. Kang weren't together that night.

And how could you possibly know that?

Because I was the one who was with him.

What?

[romantic music playing]

Mr. Kang and I

are dating.

[gasps]

I believed I was the only one who could clear Mr. Kang's name.

Is this your answer to

my proposal?

Yes.

I believed my courage

was the only thing that could protect us.

But…

that was nothing but my arrogance.

When did you start dating?

And who made the first move?

Are you getting married?

[chuckles] Uh…

[all chuckle]

Well, uh…

[gasps]

-Ms. Cha Ji-yoon. -Ms. Choi.

Can we speak, please?

Is Ms. Cha about to get her hair torn out?

Are you kidding? She should be the one doing the pulling.

Either way, this is so fun.

Why did you do it?

I couldn't stand

listening to people dragging your names through the mud.

Did you consider you'd be turning all that attention to yourself?

Well, at least it's the truth,

so I won't feel wrong for saying it.

Honestly, you…

[sighs]

Just how much more indebted to you do I have to be?

Don't say that.

You have no idea how many petty thoughts I've had.

[gentle piano music playing]

People can be crueler

than you would think. It'll be really tough.

I know.

But don't let them break you.

Ever.

I won't, Ms. Choi.

[Ji-yoon sighs]

Today was such a long day.

So, when are we getting married?

Stop teasing!

People are already pestering me about it as it is.

Why did you have to bring up the proposal?

We have to make it clear that we're dating with marriage in mind

to avoid gossip.

I guess you're right.

People really love to gossip about others. [chuckles]

Thank you for

bravely standing up for me.

Thanks to you, my name has been cleared.

[chuckles] I'm glad.

I was worried that I might have gone too far.

[inhales deeply] So…

Shall we go dress shopping?

Stop that.

[both chuckle]

[Ji-yoon] We should obviously book the venue first.

You have to brace yourself.

'Cause today, even the copy machines and watercoolers will wanna bother you.

[sighs]

Should I just call in sick and go home?

Then people will say that you resigned.

[exclaims] Can't allow that.

-[chuckles] -[sighs]

[Jung-in] Ms. Cha.

[chuckles]

Listen, I think I may have misspoke yesterday.

Please don't get me wrong.

All I meant was that no matter how busy you are,

you still need to get sleep.

Well, something like that.

[chuckles]

Yeah, okay.

Someone was mean enough to post something like that.

But will you be okay?

Since everyone knows about it now.

-People will see us! -No one's coming now. Just one.

[chuckles] It's better than sneaking around and getting caught.

Huh?

[elevator chimes]

Congrats on getting married.

Uh, no. We're not getting married anytime soon.

Oh, there's Mr. Kang.

Are we finally getting you two in the same frame?

[rock music playing]

-[electronic voice] Doors closing. -[elevator chimes]

EPISODE 11

EVEN IF RUMORS BLUR THE TRUTH, STILL CLOCKING IN!

Do I keep giving you this in secret?

I was just caught off guard earlier.

What?

So, the one who's been leaving tea on Ms. Cha's desk

this whole time was you, Mr. Kang?

Yes.

[gasps]

No fair.

I never would've guessed you two were a thing.

Could've given me a heads-up.

Mr. Kang, what about my tea?

Mr. Jeon, you can make your own tea.

No fair.

You made one for me yourself before.

You've changed.

What about the off-site meeting today? Should we head there separately as well?

Right.

The meeting…

Should I go, since I've already been handling them with Ms. Cha?

No. They'll be delivering a response to our proposal,

so it's best that I go there myself.

Then should I go with Mr. Kang?

No, I wrote that proposal, so I should be the one to go.

Right.

So let's head out together when it's time for us to go.

[exclaims] I'm a little hurt I was left in the dark,

but you make a great couple.

You're so damn out of touch. You seriously didn't notice?

-What? You knew? -Of course, I did.

One look, and I just know, okay.

-Was I the only one? -Yeah, you were the only one.

-Yeah, geez. -[phone buzzes]

Yeah, hi.

Tonight?

Yeah. Sounds good.

Okay, then. I'll tell Ji-yoon--

[colleague] Hey, hey. Don't make it awkward.

-Huh? -We can't just kick back and drink

-with the boss's girlfriend there. -What?

-Nothing. It's nothing. -[colleague] Just come by yourself.

-Okay. -[call disconnects]

[panting]

Listen to me. You can't tell anyone you gave me those receipts.

Understand?

[breathing heavily]

Oh, geez.

[door opens]

Mr. Noh.

Was this your doing?

My apologies, sir.

If you're going to strike, then do it right.

Why do you always leave things half-done?

If only Ms. Cha hadn't stepped in,

things wouldn't have fizzled out in this manner, sir.

And that's precisely why you're so hopeless.

What can you do if you're stuck in the past and blind to reality?

I-I would really like to have another chance, sir.

No, thank you.

Don't ever call me again.

[stammers] Mr. Noh. Uh…

Sir…

In other words, if we allow SAEUM to set up a Home-AI Zone,

you're saying that you'll design the themed zones

for the other companies as well?

Yes, that is correct.

If you can make that work, then we'd have no reason to say no.

Great. We'll report to our higher-ups and get back to you.

All right. Sounds good.

[Ji-yoon sighs] I was so scared he'd say no again.

Thank goodness.

We just need to convince the executives now.

Yes.

[chuckles] Yes, relax and smile like that.

But could you stop shutting elevator doors in my face?

Okay.

[chuckles]

Wow.

Cha Ji-yoon's got some real guts.

How could she date Three-No-Man?

-Hey, could you ever date him? -Hmm.

He's handsome and competent.

There's no reason not to.

Except that he's divorced.

Do you think Ji-yoon knew that before though?

Who knows? I don't think Mr. Kang would've hidden it, though, at least.

Do you think Cha Ji-yoon threw herself at him?

[Ji-yoon] Yeah, I did just that.

Can't believe you guys came without me.

-Did you invite her? -Mmm. It's a peer gathering.

[colleague 2] I called her too.

These guys said they feel awkward drinking with you now.

-But why? -Ah, come on. Let's be real.

We meet every now and then to blow off steam by trash-talking our bosses.

But how are we supposed to do that now?

Your boss isn't my boss, so why do you care anyway?

Even so, word could travel up.

[scoffs]

We're too busy talking about us, you know.

-Wow, so it's a "we" already. -[colleague 2 chuckles]

To be fair, there's an upside to her dating Mr. Kang.

Like what?

Think back to when Mr. Kang first arrived, hmm?

Everyone was in a panic,

talking about the Grim Reaper coming and the ensuing bloodbath.

But look at things now.

No one calls him Three-No-Man anymore.

So, what I'm saying is that

the only reason we're working in peace right now is all thanks to Ji-yoon.

So, does that mean Ji-yoon tamed Three-No-Man?

Yeah, I tamed him.

You should be grateful.

Now stop talking about me and just drink up.

Cheers, cheers, cheers!

-Cheers! -Cheers! Drink up!

[yawns]

[sighs] I'm exhausted.

[sighs]

[sighs]

I should still call him though.

[whimsical music playing]

Hi there, Ji-yoon.

Reporting my safe arrival.

[chuckles] You had a lot to drink.

Yes.

Whenever I tried to hold back, they said I'd changed.

When I tried to drink up, they said I was all hyped up on love.

So I just decided to go all out.

I should've gone to pick you up.

I really don't want them seeing you come and pick up your girlfriend.

[sighs] What's wrong with everybody?

I'm still the same girl,

but now they only see me as Kang Si-woo's girlfriend, not Ji-yoon.

Then make it so they call me Cha Ji-yoon's boyfriend instead.

[chuckles] Fine.

I'll just come at them with my sheer talent.

[chuckles]

[inhales sharply] When I first heard about her special promotion,

I didn't think much of it because she's good at her job.

But the more I think about it, I don't think that's it.

From sphere ice refrigerator to Home-AI,

she did everything with Mr. Kang.

What if he recruited her for personal reasons from day one?

Come on, no way.

We all saw how she stood her ground against Mr. Ko.

She left because she couldn't take it anymore.

And on top of that, no one wanted to join.

Maybe that was part of the plan too.

If anyone was getting promoted to manager, it should've been you.

It makes no sense for Ms. Cha to get it.

-[coworker] Yeah, that's true. -[sighs]

I was sure you'd be first in line to make manager.

[sighs] Mr. Park, are you just going to sit back and watch

while Ms. Cha makes manager all because she dated the right guy?

Let's go back inside if you're done.

[sighs]

YOU'RE REPULSIVE

[ominous music playing]

-Shall we head out? -Yes.

Why do you look so nervous?

[tender music playing]

Well, because I put so much work into preparing this.

You'll do just fine. Don't worry, okay.

Okay.

Proposing themed zones for our competitors

is not only a necessary choice for our Home-AI Zone,

but also a strategy to expand our customer base.

A customer's journey doesn't just start with a single brand.

Some customers might initially be drawn in by a competitor's themed zone,

but once they experience SAEUM's Home-AI Zone,

they'll ultimately be won over by the future tech we're showcasing.

Thank you so much.

Isn't that too naive an approach?

What if that makes our competitors stand out even more?

Uh, I'm confident that having

a point of comparison will make SAEUM's Home-AI stand out even more.

What do you think about this, Mr. Kang?

I think it's an excellent proposal.

It will be a great opportunity

to expand the overall market and clearly highlight the necessity of Home-AI.

Ever the supportive boyfriend.

[emotional music playing]

Can you confirm with absolute certainty that no personal feelings

affected that decision?

I'm simply evaluating

a team member's proposal as the team lead.

Then, is it possible that Ms. Cha

just presented your idea on your behalf?

Why would I do such a thing?

She handled the ice refrigerator launch presentation

on your behalf as well, didn't she?

Both then and now,

the concept for the refrigerator and this plan came from Ms. Cha.

Well, it's only human nature to give more opportunities

to an employee that you care for.

That's unacceptable.

That's favoritism.

All right. That's enough.

I'm hearing far more personal comments than feedback on the proposal.

Since her proposal was so unrealistic,

I wondered if she had a safety net backing her up.

This is a massive gamble. I say we reject it.

[sighs]

All right.

Let's find a safer and more realistic approach.

[sighs]

[staff member 1] I heard Cha Ji-yoon got shut down at the executive meeting.

[staff member 2] Really?

I wonder if Mr. Kang's been pulling strings for her.

[staff member 3] How long have they been dating?

Pretty long, I think.

Guess he was pulling strings for his girlfriend.

Talk about favoritism.

I'm so pissed.

The Clock-out Fairy's getting promoted for dating the right guy!

[staff member 4] You could say that's a skill too. [chuckles]

Let me say it again. That was an excellent proposal.

The thing is, the higher-ups always prefer

methods with a proven track record over a new challenge.

My proposal simply wasn't strong enough to break that inertia.

[exhales deeply]

Tune out all that noise for a while, okay?

Just listen to your voice.

[gentle pop song playing]

Do you think Cha Ji-yoon threw herself at him?

Can you confirm with absolute certainty that no personal feelings

affected that decision?

YOU'RE REPULSIVE

I love you.

YOU'RE REPULSIVE

Tastes good.

HOME-AI THEMED POP-UP ZONE OPERATION PLAN

[tapping keys]

[song ends]

There's nothing sexier than watching someone working hard at their job.

[chuckles]

Just give me one second.

Don't mind me. It's fun watching you work.

All done.

Would you like the honor of being the first to hear the finished track?

Really? Can I, really?

[romantic song playing]

-[clears throat] -This is so cool.

I can't believe my boyfriend made this.

I just did the mixing.

But mixing is the finishing touch.

For me, the person who puts the finishing touch is awesome.

[chuckles]

[song stops]

What is this?

My finishing touch.

[funky music playing]

Jae-in.

I'll save the ring for later.

I didn't see this coming at all.

I never thought I'd want to do stuff like this either.

So pretty.

What are you waiting for? Do mine.

[chuckles]

[giggles]

They look pretty.

Let's promise to stay together until these snap.

But what if…

But what if I…

How would you feel if I got transferred to an overseas office?

Mmm.

I hate long-distance, so I'd go too.

You would?

Mmm. Just wait until I graduate. I'll follow you to the end.

Yeah, but what if I have to leave right away?

Wow. It sucks just imagining it.

So, can we stop with the terrible what-ifs and take selfies?

[chuckles] Mm-hmm.

[Jae-in grunts]

[shutter clicks]

The Admin Team employee in charge keeps insisting

they simply misplaced the receipts,

so we can't investigate any further.

However,

the online forum is flooded with comments disputing the claims,

shifting the narrative

to criticism of the post itself.

In other words, you're saying there's nothing the company can do about this.

What, then?

I doubt you requested a meeting just to tell me that.

There's been a formal complaint filed against you.

-[tense music playing] -What does it say?

It alleges you've been showing preferential treatment

to your girlfriend, Senior Associate Cha Ji-yoon.

[sighs]

[executive] Manager Kang's reputation has hit rock bottom.

It's starting to tarnish the company's image.

Will you just stand by and watch?

We've already confirmed that his alleged affair

with Manager Choi Soo-jin isn't true.

Therefore, let's just forget this matter.

An affair rumor

is a private matter, and since there's no actual victim,

there's only so much the company can do.

But preferential treatment is a different story.

Now that a formal complaint has been filed,

the company can't just look the other way in this case.

Allegations is what they are.

The HR team is looking into it as we speak,

so let's wait and see.

[HR lead] Were you two dating during the performance review period as well?

We were not.

We know you based your evaluation on

the sphere ice refrigerator launch presentation.

Were personal feelings involved in this decision?

If by "personal feelings" what you mean is romantic ones,

the answer is no.

Let me ask you again.

Was your performance review of Senior Associate Cha fair?

Yes.

Fairness is clearly the most sensitive and important issue

among our employees right now.

If a sense of injustice starts to breed,

they won't trust a single thing the company does.

All right.

And what is your proposed course of action then?

To cut the source of these allegations.

[knock on door]

What brings you here?

This details the changes made to the Home-AI refrigerator design.

DESIGN REVISIONS FOR HOME-AI POPULARIZATION

Why are you…

You see, I revised the design after listening to Ms. Cha's feedback.

Oh.

Is that favoritism?

Stop tormenting an employee who's working so hard for this company.

Mr. Kang and myself and all of SAEUM staff

actually owe a great deal to Ms. Cha for her hard work.

Even among the smallest screws, some catch the light.

Appreciating exceptional talent,

you really think that's favoritism?

Manager Kang Si-woo,

I suggest we remove him from the team lead position.

[scoffs]

[dramatic electronic music playing]

[blows]

A permanent installation is out of the question now.

How about something like a pop-up instead?

[sighs] I don't know. A pop-up might be a tough sell too.

We still have to try.

Without a dedicated zone,

we can't properly showcase our AI products.

All right. Let's try that.

[pants]

A complaint has been filed against Mr. Kang.

A complaint? About what?

[breathes shakily]

Allegations of favoritism toward Ms. Cha.

[Kee-tae] That's nonsense!

Then what about me? Was that favoritism too? Huh?

Yes. I know.

[Ji-yoon] My move driven by my own arrogance

has come back to bite me.

You've always worked quietly.

Why is there so much noise lately?

My apologies.

You never apologize.

You know,

the main reason I took you under my wing was because

you never did anything that you had to apologize for.

But you know perfectly well

that none of this is true.

About Ms. Cha,

let's go ahead and cancel her promotion.

We'll transfer her to another office after the launch.

I'll take any disciplinary action, if needed.

I should be transferred instead.

I can't…

afford to lose you as well.

[sighs]

[Na-ri] A complaint has been filed against Mr. Kang.

Allegations of favoritism toward Ms. Cha.

Thank you.

I'll leave you two alone.

So, what did HR say?

They won't be penalizing you for this, will they?

Let's talk about something other than work, please.

It's the end of the year. We should make plans.

Mmm, perhaps going on a short trip or seeing a nice show.

Oh, should I book a restaurant first?

All I can think about right now is the launch.

[chuckles]

Back to work, I see.

Do you really love work that much?

I really enjoy what I do.

Planning a product that has never existed,

collaborating with other departments to bring it to life,

and putting it out onto the market for people all over the world to see.

So you must have more products you'd like to develop.

If you're worried about what our next project should be,

there's no need to worry.

My head is bursting with ideas.

If you want to launch all that,

you'll have to do this job for a very long time.

Yes.

And I would want to develop all of them with you.

That's why I'm going to

keep my distance at work for the time being,

so we can work together for much longer.

I'm sorry.

It is favoritism,

seeing as I'm the only one you keep apologizing to.

[sighs]

SPECIAL PROMOTION ANNOUNCEMENT FOR SECOND HALF OF 2025

SPECIAL PROMOTION LIST NAME: JEON KEE-TAE

[sighs]

WE ARE PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THE FOLLOWING SPECIAL PROMOTION

PROMOTED TO: SR. ASSOCIATE

I'm sorry.

This makes no sense.

Ms. Cha, you should go to HR and find out what happened.

They'll just give the one answer they always have.

"That is strictly confidential."

[sighs] But still!

-This is so unfair. -[sighs]

I'm going out to get some air.

I'll come with you.

Thank you, but I need some time alone.

Ms. Cha must be so upset.

Congratulations, Mr. Jeon.

I'm not even sure I should be congratulated.

Oh, dear! Poor thing.

Oh, it's just too bad. I'm sure you had your hopes up.

Thank you so much for your concern.

You thought riding your boyfriend's coattails

would make climbing the corporate ladder easier.

It's the exact opposite.

Stay with him,

and those favoritism allegations will haunt you forever

and you'll face nothing but setbacks.

That's fine with me.

It's still a lot better than all the setbacks I faced

when I worked under you.

What?

You stole your subordinates' ideas

and then you bullied them just to take credit for their achievements.

You're the worst boss I've ever had in my life.

-[gasping] -Ms. Cha!

[groans]

Ms. Cha, are you okay?

-Oh, no. Are you okay? -Move, damn it.

What did you just say?

I am the worst boss?

Just because people pay you a few compliments,

you think you can say such a thing?

I told you this before, but you seem to keep forgetting.

Using your workplace status

to cause physical or mental suffering to another employee is a direct violation

of the Labor Standards Act.

So what?

Just so you know, I'm going to report you.

[scoffs] Have you really lost your mind?

-[gasps] -[Si-woo] That's enough.

[sighs]

[Young-sam] Why? What is it?

Can't keep your cool 'cause she's your girlfriend?

She's a member of my team.

I can tolerate you grabbing me by the collar

and kicking me out of your team for exposing your corruption.

But this is where I draw the line.

For harassing my people.

You draw the line?

What are you gonna do?

I noticed that you've been quite obsessed with golf.

Therefore, I plan on

looking into exactly who you've been meeting out there and why.

[scoffs]

Whoa, whoa. Got any proof?

If there's no proof, I can always make some up.

Just like you made me the face of that fake affair, remember?

[scoffs]

[whispering indistinctly]

Yeah, go ahead and try me.

I'll be looking forward to seeing

what kinda shit the high-and-mighty Kang Si-woo is able to pull.

[staff member] Oh, he's leaving.

Damn it!

[sighs]

[romantic music playing]

What does "fair" even mean anyway?

Would you say that it is fair that I'm facing setbacks

just because you and I are dating?

Is it really okay to be made to feel guilty just for

-being in love with someone? -[chuckles]

You have every right to be angry.

Scream until you've let it all out, if that's what you need.

[sighs] Can I really?

Yes.

Why won't everyone just leave me alone?

I feel wronged too, you know!

Is it a crime to be great at my job and have a great love life too?

What makes you assholes so special that you get to judge how I live my life?

You goddamn psychos!

[sighs]

Whatever.

Forget the promotion.

If I don't get it now, I'll get it next time.

So please,

stop apologizing to me and blaming yourself.

I'm fighting the urge to apologize to you too, you know.

We're still at work.

Work is over.

It's past 6:00 p.m.

Then let's clock out on the dot today.

[romantic music swells]

Oh. Thank you so much.

Look…

Some people have been talking about favoritism or whatever,

but not everyone thinks that, you know.

Is there anyone here who doesn't know how great you are at your job? Uh…

I think they're just jealous because you have a good boss.

You should

just keep doing your thing.

[chuckles]

Well, uh, see ya.

[motivational piano music playing]

[sighs]

[Ji-yoon] It felt like summer after a raging storm.

And our lives…

went on as usual

as though nothing had ever happened.

At least…

on the surface.

Let's start the meeting.

[others] Yes, sir.

Good news. My management approved your proposal.

Thank you.

Please send us the size and location of each store,

and we will prepare the layout immediately.

That sounds good.

I'll talk to you soon.

So we're all set for the overseas stores, right?

Yes.

Now we just have to sort out the domestic stores.

HOME-AI THEMED POP-UP ZONE OPERATION PLAN

They agreed to have our Home-AI Zone installed as a pop-up

for one month following our launch.

I would've lost all motivation after a rejection,

yet you brought a fallback plan.

I was determined to set up the Home-AI Zone, even if it's only for a short time.

Aren't you upset

about what happened to your Home-AI Zone and themed zone proposal?

I'm doing just fine.

I can try again next time.

And when that time comes, I'll be sure to win everyone over.

SIGNATURE

You may proceed.

Sure.

What a shame.

Sir,

another complaint just came in.

Is it Manager Kang again?

No, it's about Manager Ko Young-sam.

What does it say?

Workplace harassment through repeated verbal abuse.

REPORTING WORKPLACE HARASSMENT FROM MANAGER KO YOUNG-SAM

There's even a voice recording attached.

Play it.

Yes, sir.

How many times do I have to tell you to give me a heads-up on stuff like that?

Am I the only one working here?

Am I the only one who's getting paid?

If you're gonna work like this then cough up your wages and resign!

What did you just say?

I am the worst boss?

Just because people pay you a few compliments,

you think you can say such a thing.

Have you really lost your mind?

[Si-woo] That's enough.

Anonymous?

No, sir.

This was sent by Associate Yoon No-ah.

Then that means there's no room for argument.

Request a meeting with Manager Ko Young-sam.

Yes, sir.

[breathing heavily]

[Young-sam sighs]

Did you really do this?

If you're talking about the formal complaint against you,

then yes, that was me.

[scoffs]

RECORDING

Go and tell them right now that it's not true.

And why should I do that?

Because it's not true!

Do you think I did all of that just to harass you?

I was motivating everyone to work harder for the sake of the team and the company!

You're wrong.

You constantly treated us like we were totally worthless employees.

Hey!

[scoffs]

You think you can pull a stunt like this and still work here in peace?

You think I'm gonna let you get away with this?

Well, I'm going to Senegal anyway!

What?

Ms. Cha.

Mr. Kim!

Well, I see.

Development's over and you don't even show your face in the lab anymore.

Well, if I came looking for you now, it would mean there was a major emergency.

Would you like that?

[chuckles] Gosh. Just hearing that makes my palms sweat.

[chuckles]

Don't make jokes like that. [chuckles]

Listen.

I'm going to become

the team lead for the Future Tech Development Team.

I want you to come join us.

Oh. [chuckles]

But I can't join the Development Team.

But you have a master's degree in engineering.

You being in Product Planning is weird.

I understand, but I've been doing this for the past seven years.

I know.

That's precisely why I'm asking you.

You know firsthand

how much Product Planning and Development fight.

Planning brings these impossible ideas and insists on doing them,

while Development just digs their heels in and says that it's impossible.

No one else communicates across both sides like you.

You're the only planner who can actually make the impossible happen.

Wow. You're really laying it on thick, aren't you?

You know I can't resist compliments.

I meant every word I said, okay?

Just think it over.

[chuckles] Okay.

Thank you. Will do.

[chuckles]

[Ji-yoon chuckles]

[lighthearted music playing]

[Ji-yoon exclaims]

[sighs] Now that takes the edge off.

You know,

I got scouted today.

From where?

The Future Tech Development Team.

Mr. Kim himself asked me to join.

The Development Team?

But you really love the work that you're doing now.

Yeah, that's true,

but hey…

since when do employees have to do what they want?

If the situation isn't ideal, moving teams is an option.

My situation's not ideal?

Come on. It's not you, it's for both of us.

I just… I want to handle both work and romance wisely.

[sighs]

Oh, did you already hear?

Other employees besides No-ah also sent in voice recordings of Mr. Ko.

You filed a report too, right?

Of course, I did.

That's what he deserves, you know. [chuckles]

Since we're outside the office, can I trash-talk my boss?

Didn't you already do that to the company fridge?

Hey, I only did it because my direct superior told me to.

[chuckles]

Mmm. Just try some.

Good, right?

Delicious.

[Si-woo] Do you really love work that much?

I really enjoy what I do.

[Ji-yoon] What does "fair" even mean anyway?

Would you say that it is fair that I'm facing setbacks

just because you and I are dating?

About Ms. Cha,

let's go ahead and cancel her promotion.

You know, I got scouted today.

[sighs]

All right, so please send me the video as soon as it's finished.

Yes, thank you.

Did you check the status of all the stores?

I've confirmed that all inventory has been delivered.

The Sales Team members on-site at each store

will check the Home-AI Zones and send video updates.

Sounds good.

Na-ri, did you make sure no media outlets

or partners were left off the video invitation list?

Yes, I double-checked that, but…

[yelping]

The web drama series hasn't been uploaded yet.

So, let's check with the Marketing Team again.

Sure.

-Food's finally here. -[Na-ri] Yes.

-This is Shin Na-ri from the task force. -[phone buzzes]

Hello, this is Jeon Kee-tae.

What do you mean the server's down?

Look, you know how critical online distribution is right now.

You have to restore it immediately.

Yes, I'll monitor on my end.

-Geez. -What do we do?

Looks like they haven't finished editing the web series yet.

We still have some time left.

Keep following up with them until it's uploaded.

Yes.

Hello. This is Cha Ji-yoon from the task force.

Yes, yes.

Yes, that's correct.

Yes, I'll email that to you right away.

[Na-ri] Wow. Can't believe this day has finally come.

[sighs] Our babies are probably filling up the stores right about now.

I bet Ms. Han has already landed in Las Vegas by now.

Oh, by the way,

why didn't you go to CES?

I mean, you should've gone so we could've tagged along.

If you think back to last night, you should know exactly why I didn't go.

That's true. [chuckles]

We burned the midnight oil.

Still, you're the star of this launch.

It's a shame you won't be in the limelight.

But I'm not the star here.

[both] It's us, right?

-You're not. -[both] It's the company.

Ms. Cha.

I feel like you're becoming more and more like Mr. Kang.

"Three-No-Girl."

And you, Mr. Kang, are becoming more and more like Ms. Cha.

I may never be a Clock-out Fairy,

but I can certainly be a Clock-in one.

[gasps]

-It's starting! -[exclaims]

[pop music playing]

[Ga-eul] Once again, I gave it my absolute all today.

Right now, what I need most is

home,

and AI.

Curious about the daily life of homebody Cho Ga-eul?

Search for the web drama series, SAEUM Villa.

I recharge myself with Home-AI.

This is what made me a huge fan of Cho Ga-eul.

I don't get it. Why is he so popular?

Because he's so handsome!

And he's a great singer.

He had impeccable manners when I saw him on set too.

My wife plays his songs all the time these days.

I'm seriously sick of it. [groans]

His songs are pretty good, though.

Wait, you've listened to his music too?

I listen to music, too, you know.

Oh, I see.

I hope everything works out well for everyone.

Right.

I'm sure it will.

[melancholy music playing]

[groans] This is nice.

It's freezing today.

I would've turned into a Popsicle, if I'd walked to our usual spot.

[chuckles]

[chuckles] Buckle up, please.

[sighs]

We're right in front of the office.

You're getting bolder by the day, aren't you, Ms. Cha?

Well, I've got nothing to fear now.

I missed out on the promotion anyway.

Shall we clock in holding hands tomorrow?

I'm sorry, but you will have to go to work alone tomorrow.

-Why? -Because I took the day off.

All of a sudden?

I'm visiting my father on his birthday.

I haven't celebrated it since my mother passed away.

I'll miss you, but you can't miss that.

Have a safe trip.

Ji-yoon.

Yes?

Can you promise me something?

Promise me that no matter what, you'll always make the best choice for yourself.

[suspenseful piano music playing]

Okay, I promise.

[Jae-in] No-ah, should we go on a trip when it's spring?

How about we go right now?

Now?

Yeah.

If we keep putting it off, we might never go.

What's wrong? That doesn't sound like you.

Jae-in.

I'm going to Senegal.

Senegal?

What for?

My company is sending me.

So it's a business trip?

How long are you going for?

Two years.

Can't you say you're not going?

But I applied for it, so…

[chuckles]

I thought it over so much, and you were the only reason I hesitated.

We've only just started dating.

But for you to suddenly say you're going somewhere that far…

Are you breaking up with me?

Oh, no. I don't want to break up with you.

But you see…

For the first time since I started working, I got ambitious.

I want to be recognized more and move up the ladder.

If I stay like this, I'll end up stuck

as a Senior Associate forever.

Jae-in.

I'm positive that going to Senegal will change everything moving forward.

From my life to my career.

Was I even a part of that decision?

You were.

You're the reason I found the courage to do this.

The old me who hadn't met you, wouldn't have even dared to try.

[sighs] But…

before being Lee Jae-in's girlfriend,

I want to be Yoon No-ah first.

[melancholy music playing]

I get it.

Do what you want.

[train bell chimes in distance]

But I…

I can't do this.

[melancholy music continues]

[gasps] Don't go.

[No-ah breathes heavily]

I can't break up with you.

I totally understand that I sound very selfish right now.

But still…

Can we please stay together?

Jae-in!

Lee Jae-in!

[sighs]

Still can't reach him?

No.

I should've explained things better.

I guess I didn't explain myself well.

He probably needs time to process things.

It's normal that he's angry right now, since he never saw this coming.

I would've reacted the same way.

We just started dating. Throwing this was completely unfair of me.

I had no idea you were this brave, No-ah.

First the complaint, and now Senegal.

Look at you making all these moves.

This is all your fault.

You totally rubbed off on me.

[scoffs] You're way worse than me.

-[both chuckle] -[phone buzzes]

[No-ah sighs]

[Soo-jin] Ji-yoon! Wanna get a drink today?

Lucky you. Getting texts and all.

Our manager, right?

Mmm.

[Ji-yoon] Sounds good.

[serene piano music playing]

[Soo-jin] It's been a while.

What's this unexpected duo?

I wanted to grab a drink with Ji-yoon,

but figured drinking near the office might just fuel unwanted gossip.

I was the one who suggested this place.

I hope that's okay.

[chuckles] Hey, I'm grateful for any paying customer.

[Soo-jin chuckles]

Plus, I get to see an old friend.

Go ahead. Don't mind me, please.

It's been tough lately, huh?

[chuckles]

Yeah.

I thought that by telling the truth, the lies would simply disappear.

But a much bigger lie ended up burying the truth completely.

To be honest,

it was pretty terrifying.

Even so, you held your ground really well.

I actually heard that you even went to HR on my behalf.

Thank you.

You didn't get the special promotion,

but you'll make manager soon.

Thanks.

Brace yourself.

That's actually when corporate life really begins.

[both chuckle]

What is it like?

[sighs] When you make team lead,

you'll see right through your subordinates slacking off,

and all the dirty politics the higher-ups play.

You'll basically see a…

completely different side of the company.

And then on top of that, if you get married and have kids… [sighs]

…the glass ceiling you have to break will seem miles high. [chuckles]

I'm completely sure you'll do just great.

Did you know that you are my role model, Ms. Choi?

I'm the one who's been learning a lot from you.

How to work without losing yourself…

and how to love.

[chuckles]

Anyway, I'm counting on you down the road.

Likewise.

-[chuckles] You silly… -[chuckles]

[sighs]

Man, this is so freaking weird.

You made all this by yourself, Dad?

That's an obvious question.

Come on. Let's eat.

It's good.

Why the sudden visit?

Because it's your birthday today, Dad.

Birthdays are never a big deal. [chuckles]

Happy birthday, Dad.

It should sound just as you remember it.

Listen to it more often now.

It seems, uh,

I might've just dumped a repair job on you.

You're allowed to. I'm your son.

This stereo looks right at home when it's by your side, Dad.

[joyful music playing]

Oh. It's getting cold.

Yeah.

[chuckles]

I know he's with his father and all, but still.

How can he send one good-night text but not even call me once?

It's the weekend too.

Is there something that I missed?

[melancholy music playing]

I'm sorry.

My situation's

not ideal?

Can you promise me something?

Promise me that no matter what,

you'll always make the best choice for yourself.

[vacuum cleaner humming]

[Si-woo] Isn't it tough for you living out here?

Well, it's definitely less convenient than Seoul.

The grocery store is far, the hospital's far.

Still, whenever I take a walk like this in the sea breeze,

it completely clears my head.

Time flies as well.

So, how are things with you?

Nothing special.

"Nothing special"?

Your face says you have a lot on your mind.

How's work? Everything okay?

If I stay, I'll get promoted and even make executive.

Go on.

I don't think I can be a good leader, after all.

What do you mean?

A good leader has to be willing to get their hands dirty

and fight to protect their own people.

I don't think I have it in me to do that.

Figures.

You never had a talent for politics.

-You take after me. -[both chuckle]

But that doesn't mean you're unable to do it.

Office politics is pretty different.

It comes in all shapes and sizes.

You just need to do it your way.

Right. I'm still trying to figure out what my way is.

[chuckles]

It's so cold, but it's nice being out here.

[sighs] It is.

[romantic music playing]

What is it? Do you know her?

She's my girlfriend.

[sighs, clears throat]

I'm gonna stop by the supermarket. You guys head on home.

She can't leave without eating dinner.

Mr. Kang!

What are you doing here?

I went to your father's place, but there was no one home.

So I was just admiring the ocean while waiting for you.

Why didn't you call?

Because I thought something was going on, that's all.

I can't know everything,

but I can tell you're struggling right now.

You've never been a person to share the ups and the downs,

so you're stuck overthinking by yourself.

That's why you came all the way here?

I want to be by your side whenever you're struggling.

[Si-woo] I was looking for answers in all the wrong places.

I was trying to figure out the right answer,

but it came to me the second I saw your face.

What answer?

The answer was so simple.

"It was you."

Well…

I think I'm gonna resign from SAEUM.

[romantic music playing]

[Ji-yoon] It just feels like a waste to throw away

all you've built over the years.

[Si-woo] I wanna find out what it is that I truly

want to do.

[U-jin] It's not too late to change your mind.

[associate] A new hire's starting today. Can someone mentor him please?

I'll do it, if you want.

You don't look like the type to work at an electronics company. [chuckles]

No-ah. Let's get back together.

[No-ah] I know how selfish I'm being right now.

But I really don't want to give up on either one.

He's…

How can you trust someone who gives up that easily?

[Si-woo] Tomorrow will be my last day at work.