It was the height of June, when the sun stretched long and warm over the city. The playground buzzed with life, filled with the sound of children's laughter as they darted between slides, climbing frames, and benches. A game of hide-and-seek was in full swing. Little feet patterned across the ground, sandals slapping against the pavement while others giggled from behind bushes and poles, trying to hold their breath so they wouldn't be found. Every shout of "Found you!" was followed by squeals of protest and more laughter, their joy echoing in the summer air.
Kiyonari stood just outside the playground, his steps slowing until he stopped completely. The laughter of the children drew him in, tugging at an old, familiar corner of his memory. He had loved hide-and-seek once too—loved it more than any other game.
Back then, no one could ever find him. He was always the last one standing, tucked away in impossible hiding spots, grinning when his friends finally gave up searching. It was his small triumph, his favorite childhood joy.
Now, as he watched the children play, he realized the game hadn't even really left him. He still played the game, only the stakes had grown larger. Instead of friends searching for him in the park, it was the world he was hiding from—his secret, his true self. And just like that before, he was still good at it.
Kiyonari tore his eyes away from the playground when the glint of his wristwatch caught his attention. His heart sank the moment his hands came into focus.
"Shit!" He hissed under his breath. Time was slipping away faster than he thought. Without a second wasted, his feet broke into a sprint, the sound of his hurried steps echoing down the pavement.
Today wasn't just any day. It was the day of his job interview—at one of the most prestigious companies in all of Korea. Soojin Corporation, a business empire founded and still ruled by the Je family, stood as a titan in industries ranging from finance to technology. Its name alone carried weight; it was the kind of place where only the sharpest minds and most polished résumés had any hope of stepping foot inside.
For most, the chance to even be considered by Soojin Corporation was a once in a lifetime opportunity.
For Kiyonari, it was more than that—it was the beginning of a dangerous gamble, one that required him to keep his greatest secret locked deep inside.
By the time Kiyonari finally reached the company, his breath caught—not from the sprint, but from the sight before him. The building towered above everything else around it, a sleek giant of glass and steel that seemed to pierce the sky itself. It stood proud, high and mighty, as though declaring its dominance over the city.
He had known Soonjin Corporation headquarters was impressive, but standing before it in person made the reality hit him harder than expected. A tightness curled at the back of his neck, nervousness creeping in uninvited. His throat went dry, and he swallowed hard before mustering the courage to step inside.
The lobby was no less overwhelming. If the exterior screamed power, the interior whispered wealth in every detail. Marble floors gleamed under crystal chandeliers, golden accents lined the walls, and modern art installations stood like quardians of taste and prestige. The air itself carried an aura of untouchable elegance. It wasn't just a building—it was a statement.
Kiyonari made his way through the bustling lobby until he noticed a line forming near the reception area. Curiosity prickled, and he craned his neck to see what was happening at the far end.
Just then, the person in front of him turned around. His eyes widened as he looked Kiyonari up and down, his mouth parting slightly.
"Wow..." the stranger breathed, almost involuntarily.
Kiyonari blinked in surprise.
[??]
"You're really tall," the stranger said, amazement clear in his voice.
Heat rushed to Kiyonari's cheeks. Embarrassed, he bowed his head politely. "Ah... thank you."
"Sorry about that... I didn't mean to—"
"Oh it's fine."
The other man chuckled lightly, his tone friendly. "You must be here for the interview too, right?"
"Yes," Kiyonari replied simply, still a little stiff, though his voice carried quiet determination.
The line moved slowly, giving the two of them a chance to exchange a few words.
"I'm Han Jiwoo," the stranger introduced himself with an easy smile. "Honestly, I was nervous before coming here, but seeing you made me forget for a second. You look so calm."
Kiyonari blinked at him. Calm?
If only Jiwoo knew his heart was hammering in his chest. He gave a faint, polite smile.
"My name is Soo Kihyun. But I wouldn't say I'm calm. Just... trying not to think too much."
Jiwoo laughed softly, rubbing the back of his neck. "Well, you're doing a good job at it. Everyone else looks ready to faint.
Kiyonari tilted his head, glancing at the people ahead of them shifting nervously in place. He couldn't help but agree. "I guess that makes two of us hiding it, then."
Jiwoo grinned at that. "Yeah. Guess so."
For a moment, their shared nervous seemed lighter, softened by the small bond of strangers standing in the same line, chasing the same opportunity.
Minutes dragged on, and the line still hadn't moved. People shifted from foot to foot, restless, some glancing at their watches while others muttered quietly. Patience was wearing thin; a few even looked like they might leave altogether.
Just then, a female employee appeared, hurrying toward them with the air of someone carrying important news.
"Good day, everyone!" She greeted, slightly breathless but smiling politely. "I deeply apologizing for making you wait so long." She bowed low, her sincerity evident. "There was a minor issue earlier, but it has been resolved. The interviews will now proceed as scheduled. Please, follow me this way."
She gestured toward the arched hallway to her right. A collective sigh if relief passed through the line. Finally—a progress.
Kiyonari and Jiwoo joined the others, trailing after her until they were led into a wide, well-lit room. Rows of chairs filled the space, and applicants quickly settled in, murmurs buzzing like low static. Kiyonari chose a seat at the far end of the row, glad to be slightly out of sight. Jiwoo, meanwhile, waved lightly before slipping away to another spot across the room.
Names began to be called one by one. Each time, the chosen applicant would straighten in their seat, shoulders squared, rehearsing the answers they'd prepared countless times. Kiyonari could feel their nervousness, but stronger than that was the confidence radiating from them.
They had prepared for this moment, some perhaps for months. On the other hand, Kiyonari only had two days—and a few rushed minutes this morning—to get himself ready. Anxiety pressed against his chest, yet he clenched his fists under the table. He couldn't afford to falter. This was his one chance.
It wasn't as if he hadn't tried elsewhere. Kiyonari had applied to several companies, only to face rejection again and again. Many required applicants to declare their secondary gender and openly admitted to preferring Alphas for leadership positions.
The last company he interviewed with had shown interest in him but refused because they demanded at least one Alpha in the office. With so many Betas already on staff, they wanted to balance the ratio.
In truth, they wanted an Alpha's presence as a stepping stone to boost their prestige in the industry.
That's just unfair... Kiyonari sighed inwardly, shoulders slumping.
In this world exist three kinds of secondary genders—Alphas, Betas, and Omegas—each shaping the very fabric of society.
Alphas were considered dominant by nature, their pheromones strong enough to stir others, especially Omegas. They were often praised as natural leaders, admired for their strength and authority. But this admiration came with bias—companies and institutions openly favored them, treating their status as a badge of competence, even when it had nothing to do with skill.
Betas, the majority of the population, were the most "neutral." They didn't have the overpowering instincts of Alphas nor the cycles of Omegas. Stable, adaptable, and hardworking, yet because they lacked extremes, society often overlooked them. Betas were reliable—but rarely celebrated.
Omegas were the most vulnerable to prejudice. Their biology carried heats—times of heightened sensitivity and fertility—which made them easy targets for stereotypes. Many were underestimated, treated as fragile or dependent, when in truth, they could be just as capable and ambitious as anyone else.
Kiyonari knew this all too well. He was an Alpha pretending to be a Beta, hiding in plain sight. Because in a world where secondary gender dictated opportunity, exposure of his true nature could either skyrocket his chances... or destroy them entirely.
"Soo Kihyun!"
The sharp call of his name jolted him back to reality.
"Y-Yes, here!" He answered quickly, springing up from his seat. His pulse thudded against his ears as he drew in a deep breath, holding it for a second before exhaling slowly, making his nervous to settle.
He stepped toward the door, each footfall heavier than the last. The moment it shut behind him, the quiet swallowed him whole, and the pressure inside the room doubled.
At the center of the long table sat a man in a sharp suit, papers stacked neatly before him. His aura was calm but commanding—clearly the executive manager in charge. The man looked up, eyes briefly scanning Kiyonari from head to toe, and noticed the stiffness in his posture.
"You may take a swat, young man," the manager said evenly.
Kiyonari startled slightly, then nodded quickly. "R-Right, sir...!"
He slid into the chair opposite the man, trying not to fidget. His palms rested on his knees, hidden under the table, tightly clenched.
"Please, introduce yourself," the interviewer prompted, pen poised as though ready to take notes.
Kiyonari drew in another breath, forcing his voice steady. "Yes, sir. My name is Soo Kihyun. I studied international business management in Japan before permanently moving here to Korea. I speak both Japanese and Korean fluently, and during my time abroad, I worked as an assistant in two mid-sized companies, where I handled documentation, scheduling, and client support."
He added. "I may not have years of experience in Korea, but I believe my adaptability and diligence can contribute well to Soojin Corporation."
The words tumbled out carefully rehearsed, but his tone carried sincerity.
The interviewer nodded once, jotting something down. "I see. Why Soojin Corporation? Out of all the companies in Korea, why here?"
Kiyonari swallowed hard, then met the man's eyes. "Because Soojin Corporation represents excellence and growth. It is a company that not only lead in Korea but influences internationally. I want to be part of that, to learn and grow under its system—and to give my best effort in return."
Another small nod from the manager. "Hm. Noted. What would you say are your strengths and weaknesses?"
Kiyonari hesitated only briefly before answering. "My strengths are that I am organized, quick to learn, and calm under pressure. As for weaknesses... I sometimes overthink details. But I have been working on balancing thoroughness with efficiency."
The man's gaze lingered on him for a moment, assessing. Then leaned back slightly. "Interesting."
The questions continued, ranging from teamwork to problem-solving scenarios. Each answer left Kiyonari feeling like he was treading a thin rope—careful, deliberate, but uncertain if he was convincing enough. His heart raced, but he forced himself to keep going. He had to. This was his one chance.
The interview wrapped up with a low murmur among the panelists. They leaned toward one another, whispering softly as Kiyonari sat frozen in his chair, waiting for the verdict. Finally, the woman seated on the right looked up, her expression warm and polite.
"Thank you, Mr. Soo," she said with a smile. "We'll inform you of the results soon. You are dismissed."
Kiyonari nearly jumped to his feet. "Y-Yes, of course. Thank you!" He bowed quickly before hurrying out the door.
The moment the hallway swallowed him, he let out a heavy breath relief loosened his shoulders, and a faint smile tugged at his lips. He had managed to answer without fumbling too much.
For once, he felt lighter. Confident, even. Deep down, he believed he might actually have chance this time.
That night, the glow of neon signs lit the street as Kiyonari pushed open the door of a bustling restaurant. Laughter, clinking glasses, and the smell of grilled food filled the air. Most of the tables were crowded with college students in the middle of drinking parties, their voices overlapping in a cheerful chaos.
"Kiyo! Over here!"
The familiar voice made him turn, and his face broke into a smile when he spotted a waving hand.
"Seong-jun!" Kiyonari's steps quickened, and he jogged toward the boy, sliding into the seat across from him.
"Hey!" Seong-jun grinned, slinging an arm around his shoulder the moment he reached him. "Congrats on surviving your interview, man!"
Kiyonari chuckled. "Thanks. But let's not celebrate yet. I'm not even sure if I got in."
"Oh, come on. Be positive." Seong-jun gave him a playful shove. "I'm certain you'll make it—no problem at all."
Kiyonari smiled faintly but didn't answer right away. His hesitation was enough to make Seong-jun squint at him.
"... Still worried about the gender thing?" He asked carefully.
"Huh? Of course not..." Kiyonari replied a little too quickly.
Seong-jun leaned back with a knowing look. "Listen. I heard Soojin Corporation used to be completely biased about secondary genders. They only ever wanted Alphas in important positions. But things changed after the chairman's grandson stepped in. Rumor has it a lot of Alpha employees walked out because they couldn't stand the idea of him taking over."
He patted Kiyonari's shoulder reassuringly. "So trust me—you don't have to worry. They'll consider your application fairly. No problem."
Kiyonari felt something inside him ease at those words. Seong-jun was the only one who knew the truth about him, and his support was always steady, always sincere. A small, relieved smile escaped him.
"Thanks, Jun."
"That's more like it." Seong-jun grinned, raising his glass high. "Now, how about we stop overthinking and celebrate? To you finally getting a job!"
Kiyonari chuckled softly. He lifted his own glass in return. "Fine. Cheers."
Their glasses clinked, the sound sharp yet warm against the noise of the restaurant. For the first time in days, Kiyonari allowed himself to laugh.
The next morning, Kiyonari shuffled into the bathroom, half-asleep. He brushed his teeth lazily, eyes still heavy and begging to shut again. Foam bubbled at the corner of his mouth when a sharp ping echoed from the table in his room.
He frowned, toothbrush still in hand, before spitting into the sink and rinsing quickly. Padding over the table, he picked up his phone.
One glance at the screen—and his eyes flew open.
It was an email from Soojin Corporation.
[Dear Mr. Soo Kihyun,
We pleased to inform you that you have successfully passed the interview process. You are hereby accepted into Soojin Corporation as one of our employee. Please report to the company headquarters immediately for orientation and assignment.
Congratulations, and welcome to Soojin Corporation.
Human Resources Department.]
Kiyonari blinked, read it again, then again. His jaw dropped. "No way..."
He slapped his cheeks—once, twice—just to be sure. The sting was real. The message was real. This wasn't a dream. He had actually been accepted.
Heart racing, he bolted into motion. He tore open his closet, grabbed his best suit, and tugged it on in record time. Standing in front of the mirror, he straightened his blazer, struggled with his crooked tie until it looked somewhat neat, and ran his fingers through his hair to smooth it down.
He let out a shaky laugh, breathless with disbelief and excitement. "I... I really got it."
Moments later, he was already rushing out the door, determination in his stride as he headed back to the towering building that would change everything.
Kiyonari stepped into the grand lobby, the gleaming marble floors reflecting his polished shoes. He moved with purpose toward the elevators, his heart pounding with a mix of nervous and anticipation. Just as his finger hovered near the button, a sharp voice called out behind him.
"Wait, excuse me, sir!"
He turned his head quickly. A young woman in uniform from the front desk hurried over, her heels clicking against the floor.
"Yes? Can I help you?" He asked politely, straightening his posture.
She caught her breath, then looked him squarely in the eye. "Is your name Soo Kihyun?"
Kiyonari blinked. For a split second the sound of his Korean name startled him.
"... Yes. That's me."
The girl straightened immediately, her tone shifting to something more formal. She gestured with one hand. "Please, follow me this way, Mr. Soo."
Though confusion tugged at him, he kept silent and obeyed, trailing a few steps behind her. Instead of the standard elevators, she led him toward a separate one—a sleek set of gold doors gleaming under the light.
The sight made his brows lift slightly. Special access... reserved for higherpositions, he thought.
The ride ended on the 6th floor. When the doors slid open, Kiyonari was greeted by a hushed hallway, its emptiness almost intimidating. Only a few doors lined the walls, each one closed and discreet.
"This way, please," the girl said, her hand guiding forward.
He followed until they stopped before a single black door. She rapped gently against it. "Excuse me, I have brought Mr. Soo, ma'am."
A calm, composed voice from inside answered, "Let him in."
"Yes." The girl stepped aside, turning to Kiyonari. "Please proceed."
Still puzzled about what was happening, Kiyonari adjusted his tie and pushed the door open.
Inside, his eyes fell upon a woman standing with effortless grace. She wore a dignified outfit, sharp yet elegant, exuding an aura of authority. Her smile was welcoming, though her presence carried undeniable weight.
"I've been waiting for you, Mr. Soo," she greeted warmly.
Kiyonari felt a flicker of unease but masked it beneath a collected expression. He inclined his head slightly and kept his composure. When she gestured toward a seat, his movements careful and professional.
Still, inside, a single thought pressed at him: What exactly am I being brought here for...?
The woman welcomed him with a poised smile. "My name is Kim Hana. I'm part of the Human Resources board."
Kiyonari immediately offered a polite bow. "Nice to meet you, ma'am."
"Yes, Mr. Soo. We're actually very glad to have you here at Soojin Corporation."
Kihyun's lips curved into a small, delighted smile. "Thank you. " Relief washed over him—his effort had truly paid off.
But then Kim Hana's expression softened into something more careful. "I'm sure you were told to report to HQ today. However..."
She paused. "... There has been a slight change of plans for you, Mr. Soo."
Kihyun blinked, his brows furrowing. "Change of plans? What do you mean?"
"Well, you see—" she began, but her explanation would echo more vividly to Kiyonari...
That evening, Kiyonari sat across from Seong-jun at their usual café. The steam of fresh americanos rose between them.
"What?!" Seong-jun almost spit his coffee back into the cup. His eyes widened as he leaned forward. "A secretary?!"
Kiyonari shifted uncomfortably in his seat.
"... Yeah."
"Oh, come on—that's great! Congrats, man!" Seong-jun's grin was wide, his tone teasing but sincere."You've been promoted way too soon."
Kiyonari beamed faintly, though the corners of his smile felt stiff. He wasn't sure whether to feel happy or wary about the news—it had all come too suddenly.
Sensing his hesitation, Seong-jun leaned back and waved a hand. "Hey, you've got nothing to worry about, okay? I'm pretty sure it wasn't because of that. Maybe they're just really in need of a secretary."
"That's exactly what they said," Kihyun admitted, sipping his americano to calm his nerves. "They didn't expect the previous one to quit. She'd been there for at least eight months now."
Seong-jun arched a brow, intrigued. "So... who are you going to work as secretary for?"
Kiyonari hesitated, trying to recall the name. "Um... The executive directo—"
"Executive Director?!" Seong-jun cut him off, his voice pitching higher than usual. "Him?! Of all people?"
Kiyonari looked at him, startled. "What? What's wrong? You know him?"
A nervous chuckle slipped from Seong-jun's lips as he rubbed the back of his neck. "Know him? Now way I wouldn't," he scoffed.
"Everybody knows his name."
"Really?"
Seong-jun leaned in closer, lowering his voice like he was sharing a rumor. That's tough luck, dude."
Kiyonari's confusion deepened. He leaned forward too, curiosity pricking at his chest. "Why are you reacting like this? What's so bad about him?"