Object of Affection [Mina X Male Reader]

It's been 3 years since Myoi's Advertising company was built and Haru has been working there since the beginning. Haru who's the content editor and due to his hard work and dedication, he has become an important part of the company's success. His creative ideas and attention to detail have greatly contributed to the company's growth in the competitive advertising industry. Since he has been working at the company for a long time, he has interacted many times with Mina as she gives the final "yes" for each project but never had a conversation other than work-related. Mina, the head of the company's decision-making process, highly values Haru's input and relies on his expertise to ensure the quality and effectiveness of each project. Their frequent interactions have fostered a strong professional relationship, allowing them to collaborate seamlessly in delivering exceptional advertising campaigns.

"Good morning," Haru says brightly as he enters the office. Everyone looks up from their desks and returns the greeting with a warm smile. Many girls whisper to one another, "Ahh, he looks dashing in that suit today." Haru's charismatic presence brightens up the office atmosphere, creating a positive and energetic work environment. "Now guys, you know we will have a new project; please leave your chatting for later." Haru's words immediately grab everyone's attention, reminding them of the task at hand. "Yes, Mr. Yoshida-san," everyone responds enthusiastically, snapping back into focus. They admire Haru's ability to effortlessly respect and motivate the team, making him a natural leader. Within a few hours, 10 a.m. hits, and everyone is feeling nervous as they are anticipating someone to enter. It was the CEO, Myoi Mina. Everyone stood up and bowed as they saw her. "Everyone, please gather your work and gather in the meeting room in 20 minutes." She said it in a firm yet composed tone. Haru, unfazed by the CEO's presence, calmly acknowledged her instructions and swiftly organized the team to prepare for the meeting. As they gathered their work and headed towards the meeting room, a sense of anticipation filled the air, wondering what important matters would be discussed in this impromptu gathering. One by one, they discuss their proposals and come to a decision. "Alright, I hope you all do well for this project as well, and I trust you will," she says as she leaves the meeting. Everyone sighs with relief.

After work, Haru rushed home to see his girlfriend, Jennie. He bought some flowers along the way and was excited since he hadn't been making time for her. He took a cab home, and when he got inside, he saw an unknown pair of shoes. Music was playing in the background. The bedroom door was closed, and when he went to open the door, he saw Jennie with another dude. In shock, the flowers in his hand fell to the ground, and all he felt was betrayal. His heart sank as he stood frozen in the doorway, unable to comprehend what he was witnessing. The room seemed to spin around him, and he couldn't find the words to express the pain and confusion consuming him. Finally, the guy rushed to put his clothes on and left. Jennie approached Haru, but Haru just brushed her hands away. "Why?" Haru whispered, his voice trembling with a mix of anger and hurt. Jennie's eyes filled with tears as she struggled to find an explanation, but the damage had already been done. The trust between them shattered instantly, leaving Haru questioning everything he thought he knew about their relationship. "You were always busy with work and never had time for me," Jennie says, her voice choked with regret. Haru's eyes widened in disbelief, realizing that their lack of communication had played a significant role in their current predicament. He took a deep breath, trying to compose himself before responding. "I never realized how much it affected you; I will leave," he admitted, his voice filled with remorse. Jennie's eyes welled up with tears as she reached out to grab Haru's hand. "No, Haru, don't leave," she pleaded, trembling. "We can work through this together and make time for each other. Let's not give up on our relationship just yet." However, Haru's already made up his mind: "I can't see or feel the same for you anymore; I can't see us working out". Haru grabbed a suitcase, packed all his belongings, and went to stay at a hotel for the time being until he found another place to live.

Mina on the other hand went to a hotel restaurant because one of her friends texted her that they saw her fiance, Sota, with someone. As Mina entered the restaurant, she began looking around to find her fiance. That's when her eyes were fixed on a familiar face sitting at a table with another woman. Her heart sank as she realized it was indeed her fiance, laughing and enjoying himself with someone else. Mina's world shattered at that moment, and she felt a mix of anger, betrayal, and sadness wash over her. She goes to confront them... Mina's hands tremble with a surge of emotions as she approaches the table, her voice shaking with disbelief. "Sota.." she managed to say, her voice barely above a whisper. "H..how could you?" But instead of remorse or an explanation, all she received was a dismissive smirk from him, further deepening the wound in her heart. Sota was not sorry or showed any signs of feeling guilty, he sat there looking smug and just continued flirty with the other woman. "I prefer my woman flirtatious and able to satisfy my sexual desire so I should thank you for being here, I want to end our relationship anyway." Her heart sank as she realized that Sota's actions were not a one-time mistake but a reflection of his true character. The woman got up and mocked Mina's reactions, slandering her for being naive and believing that Sota would ever be faithful.

At the same time this was happening, Haru was at the bar drinking his sorrows away and happened to oversee everything. Intrigued by the drama, Haru couldn't help but feel a mix of sympathy towards Mina's situation. He contemplated whether he should intervene or observe from a distance but after seeing such a woman mock the Mina he knew, he couldn't stay still anymore and went up to them. He smoothly grabbed Mina by the waist and sweetly said "Hey Mina-yah is everything alright here? It seems like these two trash are bothering you." Mina was surprised by Haru's sudden action and looked up at him with tear-filled eyes. "Now this is why you shouldn't be too nice, look at this guy thinking he is something when you are far above his league, but at least he's with someone at his league now" Haru mocks the two. The two people were baffled as they could hardly find something to say back. Haru's presence combined with Mina's was a sight for many as two good-looking people stood together, radiating an undeniable aura of charm and elegance. It was clear that they were not to be messed with. Haru's protective instincts kicked in as he glared at the two individuals, his voice firm as he warned them to back off and leave Mina alone. The two ashamed left in a hurry. Haru and Mina exchanged relieved glances, grateful that the situation had been diffused without any further confrontation. "I'm sorry Ms. Myoi for calling you by your first name," Harus says as he bows to Mina. Mina smiled warmly at Haru, placing a hand on his shoulder. "No need to apologize, Haru. We're outside of the office, remember? You can call me Mina," she reassured him. Haru's tense expression softened, Haru proceeded to invite Mina to drink with him, Mina accepted Haru's invitation with a grateful nod.

As they sat down at the bar, Haru began to share his own story of betrayal, knowing that Mina would feel more at ease knowing she was not alone. "Looking back at my relationship, I don't think I was really in love, as it doesn't hurt as much as it should. Rather, I feel a sense of relief," Haru says while looking into Mina's eyes. From the sudden eye contact, Mina could not help but feel flustered as she admired Haru's facial features. As the conversation continued, Mina couldn't help but be drawn to Haru's vulnerability and honesty. She found herself opening up about her own experience: "I never felt a deep connection with someone; most relationships I've had were arranged by my father. But Sotta was the longest I've ever been with someone, enough even to get engaged." Haru listened attentively, his eyes filled with empathy. "I can only imagine how difficult that must have been for you," he said softly. "And I hope this allows you to find and date someone you're interested in; that's not an order from your dad." Mina felt butterflies in her stomach, overwhelmed by Haru's genuine understanding and sincerity. In that instant, she realized she could truly connect with him on a deep level beyond their work relationship. The way Haru listened to her without judgment and offered unwavering support made her feel comforted and safe. The weight of their previous troubles seemed to lessen as the evening went on as they drank, laughed, and took comfort in each other's company.