#emails are faster. emails are SUPERIOR

[youreorangeyoumoron]

well. just had a very embarrassing adult phone call so now I must join the witness protection program. bye guys

[stllmnstr]

sure thing – part one.

pairing: yang jungwon x f reader

genre: coworkers au, underground boxer jungwon

part one word count: 12.9k

warnings: swearing, descriptions/depictions of physical violence, blood and minor injuries, jealousy, a bit of a love triangle I’m SORRY, blonde boxer jungwon because yes I think that does warrant a warning, I had to split this into 2 parts because post block limit got me everyone say BOOOOO TUMBLR!!!!!!

note: this is what happens when you watch the no doubt music video and then also listen to too much chase atlantic. ALSO let me duck before the sacred monsters readers start throwing tomatoes at me I PROMISE I am working on part 4 I just... had this idea and it would not leave me alone. but cheers to another fantastic enhypen release (daydream and no doubt are both on repeat for meeeeee) and to my first jungwon fic. enjoy!

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An employee in the marketing department of a large company, your days are filled with poorly worded emails, unrealistic deadlines, and passive aggressive friendly reminders from your superiors. On a particularly awful afternoon, a chance encounter with a coworker from the programming department down the hall is the first thing to make you smile in weeks.

But the more you uncover about Yang Jungwon and his mysterious injuries, flimsy excuses, and always occupied Friday nights, the more you begin to realize that you really don’t know him at all.

⋆.˚⟡ ࣪ ˖⋆.˚⟡ ࣪ ˖⋆.˚⟡ ࣪ ˖

The printer is jammed.

It takes a very exaggerated eye roll and an embarrassing amount of self control to refrain from kicking the damn thing. Besides, you’re pretty sure your previous wording was too kind. 

Because a more accurate depiction of the situation would be:

The printer is jammed. Again. 

You’re not sure which cruel deity is responsible for the creation of Monday afternoons, but you’re sure they’re laughing at you now. Dressed in business casual and praying against all odds that the clock hanging on the office wall will start ticking a little faster, you almost wish the ground would open up and swallow you whole. Spare you from your misery 

And it’s not like a jammed printer is the end of the world. From a logical, unbiased point of view, you’re sure it’s nothing but a small, easily solvable problem. 

But it’s four pm on a Monday afternoon and you’ve had back-to-back meetings since you clocked in at eight this morning. The only real break you had lasted twelve minutes. Most of which were spent dabbing coffee stains from your blouse after Terry from accounting knocked into you in the staff kitchen. 

Your head is pounding and your feet are aching and your bladder is overly full and your left bra strap is starting to dig into your shoulder in a way that is entirely too overstimulating. 

And you really, really just need this report to print. 

After all, your boss made it very clear that you would not be clocking out for the day, no matter what hour of the evening it is, until said document is laid on his desk. Never mind the fact that you weren’t made aware of this demand until a handful of hours ago. 

So yeah, the printer jamming – again – does kind of feel like the end of the world. 

The screen is still flashing with an angry reminder to fix the paper jam in Tray 2. The instructions are starting to blur a little as you furiously blink away hot tears. 

You won’t cry at work. You won’t.

But your exhaustion is catching up with you, and the first thing it usually takes with it is your control over your emotions. 

The more you try to will them away, the more insistently they want to escape. 

Bent over the printer, you’re in the middle of trying to dislodge a particularly stubborn piece of A4 when the first tear finally does escape. It falls in a thick, wet train down the length of your cheek, settling for a moment at the base of your chin before dripping, a little pathetically, right onto the stack of papers in the printer tray. 

Your hands go slack on the sheet you’re warring with. 

For a moment, all you can do is sigh. Hang your head and hope some higher power takes pity on you. 

Stressed, burnt out, overworked. This was not how you thought you’d be spending your early twenties. But a salary is a salary, and fighting with an inanimate object on the worst day of the week keeps your lights on and your stomach full. 

Hunched over, you’re suddenly glad that the printer is kept in a separate room outside of the main office space. That there are no witnesses to your slightly pathetic meltdown.

Save for a few, it’s not like you care all that much about what your coworkers think of you. But the last thing you need to add to this day is a fresh bout of humiliation. 

Just one more minute, you tell yourself. One more minute of silence before you pull yourself together and finish dislodging the stupid piece of paper. 

It must be at least 4:10 by now, which means you have less than an hour to go. You can do it. You can. You just need one more minute of silen–

“Everything okay?” 

The sudden intrusion is so startling that your head jerks up in a subconscious reaction. Only, of course, to be met with the open printer tray you’re currently trying to troubleshoot. 

The clunk that echoes through the tiny printer room as your temple comes in direct contact with hard plastic is almost as loud as it is painful. 

“Ah,” you wince, hand instinctively flying to the side of your head. 

“Oh my god, I’m so sorry, ____.” You’re not sure if your hesitation comes from embarrassment or the fact that you head is still spinning. Either way, you’re slow to move as you look up at your sudden audience. 

Over your shoulder, Yang Jungwon has nothing but apologies written all over his delicate features. Brow pulling into a concerned frown, he’s quick to kneel to your level. 

If anyone was going to find you like this, you suppose you’re glad it was him. A recent hire fresh out of university, Jungwon has carved out a quiet kind of reputation for himself in the office. 

His presence isn’t commanding, but it is steady. The kind of person that you never see get worked up or angry or even annoyed no matter how many last minute deadlines are assigned or how many printers get jammed when he really needs to use them. 

And from what you’ve gathered, he mostly keeps to himself. It’s not from a lack of effort on your coworkers’ behalf. You know firsthand that he’s been invited to multiple post work gatherings and weekend events. 

His popularity doesn’t exactly surprise you. Even with his quiet demeanor, he has a striking presence. One that makes you curious, leaves you wanting to know more. 

Never mind the fact that he’s absolutely gorgeous. 

Still, despite their efforts, you also know that he’s politely declined each and every invitation without ever giving any real explanation. 

In all honesty, you’ve always just assumed there was a girlfriend he was eager to run home to. 

But even that is nothing more than a mindless assumption. After all, you’ve only had a few interactions with him, and nothing beyond the typical small talk all office workers develop a talent for. 

Even now, he makes the simple button down and slacks he’s wearing look like they came right from a runway. 

You’re not quite sure why, but it almost makes you want to cry harder. 

At the very least, you’re pretty sure you don’t need to worry about rumors of you having a minor meltdown in the printer room spreading through the office. Jungwon might be a hot topic of office gossip, but he’s not one to spread it.

“I am so sorry,” he repeats, “I didn’t mean to startle you.” His words are spilling out a bit too fast, blurring into each other around the edges. “I just saw you in here, and I couldn’t tell if you were okay or not, so I wanted to–”

“Jungwon,” you interrupt. There’s no kind way of telling him that his rambling is only making your headache worse. That it’s only making your tears fall faster. Instead, you abet his misplaced guilt. “It’s okay. I’m fine.”

A bit shakily, you muster up your most convincing smile. But your smudged mascara, slightly puffy eyelids, and still visible tear track suggest otherwise. 

Jungwon’s brow just pulls together a little further. “Are you sure?” He’s unconvinced. Taking a wary glance at the printer tray, he looks back to you with concern in his eyes. “That sounded like it hurt.”

“Really,” you force another weak smile. “I’m sure.”

“Can I at least take a look at it?” Guilt is still written plain as day across his face. 

Assuming he’s referring to the printer, you nod before taking one big scooch to the side. Within the confines of this tiny room, it only puts you closer to him. 

And it takes less than a second for you to realize your assumption was wrong. Because Jungwon doesn’t reach for that stupid piece of A4 still jammed inside Tray 2 or even the printer tray that just nearly concussed you. 

No, instead, his long fingers trek a steady path towards your hand. The one that still rests against your temple. Gently, he pries it away, replacing it with his own careful touch.

You’re all but immobile as gentle fingers press lightly against the side of your face, adjusting it slightly. His fingers are cool, soothing as he turns your injury towards the overhead light. 

Pliant in his hands, it’s all you can do to watch as his brow furrows in concentration, eyes scanning over your skin. Taking the skin of your bottom lip between your teeth, you pray he doesn’t notice the sudden heat in your cheeks. 

From this angle, with this proximity, you can practically count his eyelashes. They’re long, you notice. Long and wispy where they frame his dark eyes. 

“No broken skin,” he finally asserts. You can feel his breath against your skin. It takes nearly all your concentration to suppress the shiver that threatens to trace your spine. “But I wouldn’t be surprised if it bruises. There’s a bit of swelling, too. Keep an eye on it these next few days, and let me know if it doesn’t go down on its own.” 

You’re not exactly sure if Jungwon – quiet, gentle Jungwon – would be the first person you’d go to for first aid advice, but you nod anyway. 

And you’re not sure where it comes from, the sudden urge to cry again. But somewhere between the pain in your head and the soft probing of his fingers against your skin, emotions are starting to bubble beneath your stoic facade. 

It’s subtle, barely perceivable, but you can feel your bottom lip beginning to quiver. 

Much to your unending humiliation, you’re not the only one who notices. 

You’re not sure how he does, but he does. 

“Hey,” Jungwon tries. His hand is still on your face. His voice is impossibly soft, and it only makes you want to cry harder. You feel like a skittish kitten he’s trying to lure in from a rainstorm. 

His lips part as if he’s going to continue. They fall shut again before he can. 

Something in his brow softens. Concern is replaced with empathy. 

Hand falling back to his side, he suddenly changes the subject. “You’re in the marketing department, right?”

Lips still trembling, you turn your eyes towards the floor before giving him a small nod.  

From this angle, the only thing you see are his shoes. Standard leather work shoes, they’re slightly scuffed where they rest against the carpet. 

They still look formal, of course. Nothing that would raise any eyebrows in a professional setting. And from far away, you’re sure they appear pristine. 

But from this close, you can make out all sorts of rough edges. Little marks and dents and scuffs that serve as evidence of where he’s been. 

“Why don’t you head home for the day,” Jungwon suggests gently from above you. “I’ll let your team and your supervisor know that you’re not feeling well.” 

You take a deep breath, do your best to make sure your voice is steady before you respond. Shaking your head, you point out, “It’s almost the end of the day anyway–”

“Exactly,” Jungown nods, kind but firm. “There’s nothing that can’t wait until tomorrow.”

“Actually,” you grimace, trying not to let the truth inspire another round of tears. “I need the report I was trying to print. I have to turn it in before I leave today.”

There’s a beat of silence. You’re worried that Jungwon will keep offering you too much kindness, so you rush to fill it. “It’s fine, though. I think the paper jam is almost fixed, and I already sent the report to the printer, so I’m sure it will come through in a minute–”

“Perfect,” Jungwon interrupts again. “I’ll take it to your boss, then. Alan, right? I’ve spoken with him before. I’ll also let him know that you went home for the day.”

“Jungwon, you don’t have to–”

“I know.” At the interruption, your eyes snap back to him. There’s an intensity in his eyes when you match his gaze. Something so sincere that it’s hard to look away. Even though you know your eyes are still shiny with tears you wish you’d hidden better. Even if the stress and exhaustion and weariness are probably written plain as day across your features.

“I know,” he repeats. “I want to. Go home and get some rest, okay?”

It’s probably stupid, to agree so easily. But something in his eyes has you believing, even if just for a moment, that everything will be just fine if you do what he suggests. That all of your concerns and worries will work themselves out and you’ll be able to come into the office tomorrow feeling refreshed for once. For the first time in a long time. 

So you nod. You let him help you up off the floor and don’t bother hiding your face as you wipe the last of your unshed tears from your eyelashes. It probably only smudges your mascara further, but you can’t find it in yourself to care about that, either. 

The printer is still jammed and your report isn’t turned in and you’ll have to walk past your entire team back to your desk to get your things on your way out. 

But for this fleeting moment, those worries feel small. Distant. Manageable. Able to be tucked away and saved for later. 

You still don’t know much about Jungwon. The only knowledge you have comes from speculation and wishful thinking. But now, more than ever, you really wish you knew something of substance. 

But you have no idea how to tell him that. Don’t know if you even should. So instead, you say what you can. 

“Thank you, Jungwon.”

For a moment, all he does is smile. It’s small, but it reaches his eyes. Makes them sparkle a little brighter. 

His voice, like the rest of him, is gentle when he says, “Sure thing, ___.”

…..

Despite the fact that it accounts for roughly eighty percent of your job, you prefer to avoid your email inbox like the plague. 

Most days, by the time you do get around to checking it, it’s already jam packed with unreasonable requests and last-minute changes and passive aggressive friendly reminders from your superiors. 

When you sit down at your desk on Tuesday morning, you’re extra reluctant. After the printer fiasco yesterday, you’re feeling particularly sensitive to all of the potential bullshit. And you have the distinct feeling that a rather nasty message about leaving the office early unannounced is surely waiting for you. 

But the inevitable can only be delayed so long. With a wince and a final swig of coffee, you muster the courage to give the mail icon on your desktop a double click. 

The top of your inbox is filled with the usual nonsense. A request for a meeting tomorrow morning on a project idea you’ve had finalized for months. An RSVP form for the optional, but highly encouraged, upcoming staff party. A reminder from your boss that final quarterly reports need to be submitted by Friday at the latest. 

A few lines down, though, something out of the ordinary catches your eye. Checking the time stamp, you see that it was sent right as the day started. 

From: yangj@vesselsoft.co 

Subject: Printer Issue Follow-Up

Contemplating for a moment, you frown. The first floor of Vesselsoft is no stranger to printer jams. They’re typical occurrences, not major problems to be resolved via email. You didn’t think there was a printer issue to follow up on. 

But it’s far more intriguing than anything else on your work account. So, ignoring all of the other messages, you open the email from Jungwon. 

Good morning ____, 

I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to let you know that the workroom printer jam has been fixed, and your report was delivered safe and sound yesterday evening. I also wanted to check in and see how your head is feeling. 

Best, 

Jungwon

You reread it. Once. Twice. 

It’s a simple message, all things considered. But it has you searching for subtext where there likely isn’t any. If anything, this serves as a confirmation of what you already knew about Jungwon. 

He’s kind. Considerate. The type of person that would help you fix a jammed printer and check in on you the next morning. Right when he clocks in. 

The type that could probably tell that your head was the least of your concerns yesterday, but still chooses to ask how you’re doing  without drawing excess attention to it. 

For a moment, you almost wish he would make a habit of attending after hours work events. You have the distinct feeling that sucking up to your superiors would be a little less awful if someone like him was around to do it with you. 

From: You

To: yangj@vesselsoft.co

Subject: Re: Printer Issue Follow-Up

Good morning Jungwon, 

Thank you for resolving that printer issue! And thank you for checking in. My head is feeling much better today. 

Thanks again, 

____

After a final once over, you press the send button, watching as the animation shows the message flying out from your inbox. 

You imagine it flying into his. It’s subconscious, the way you start to picture what his face will look like when he sees it. 

You know he’s in the programming department, which is on the same floor as your office. Honestly, you’re a bit surprised you haven't seen him around more. 

Will he smile, you wonder. Will he have that same, gentle fondness in his eyes he seems to carry with him everywhere?

You don’t get an answer to that particular question, but you do learn that Jungwon is an incredibly prompt communicator. 

It’s barely been ten minutes before your inbox is chiming again. 

From: yangj@vesselsoft.co 

Subject: Re: Printer Issue Follow-Up

Sure thing, ___. Glad to hear it. 

Jungwon

You can’t hide the small smile that threatens to turn the corners of your lips upward. It’s not like he’s done anything particularly groundbreaking. But even bits of kindness have become a bit of a rarity for you these days.

You can’t think of anyone else in the office that would insist on sending you home thirty minutes early and offer to finish up your work for you. You can’t think of anyone else who would have navigated yesterday’s fiasco with as much gentle care as he did.

You can’t remember the last time someone bothered to consider you. To lighten your load when they noticed you starting to sink under the weight of it. 

So you’re smiling. Despite the fact that it’s still a Tuesday morning and you have a long week ahead of you. Despite the fact that you’re still very much locked into a job you mostly despise. 

Mentally, you make a note to give some gesture of your gratitude. To do something that will brighten his day a bit, too. 

But you don’t know him. Don’t know how he takes his coffee or if he has a favorite brand of ballpoint pen or if he could use an extra favor from someone in the marketing department. All the sorts of things that coworkers do to show a little bit of appreciation. 

But the universe, at least in part, seems to be on your side today. 

When you head into the staff kitchen for your mid-morning coffee refill, you find it already occupied. 

It’s a bit ridiculous, the way you suddenly feel flustered. Have the urge to smooth your hair, fix your blouse. 

He has his back turned to you, and it takes you nearly half a minute of contemplation to decide whether or not to say something. In the end, the decision is made for you. 

Your phone lights up with an urgent request that you check over the second half of the report you – well, Jungwon – submitted last night. 

Sighing, you turn away from the kitchen. Your second cup of coffee, and a conversation with a certain programmer, will just have to wait. 

You do, however, notice one last thing before you go. Watching silently, you can’t help but smile a bit as you watch Jungwon add two sugar packets to his mug. 

Sweet, you think. Just like him. And now you have at least one bit of information to work with. 

After submitting the edits on your report, you decide to use your recently earned knowledge. Deciding that he’s worth the splurge, you open the delivery page of the cafe down the street, the one that’s ridiculously overpriced but undoubtedly makes the best coffee in the area. 

And when you order it in his name, a hot coffee with two sugars, you ask the barista to attach a note. 

Thank you again for yesterday. I hope this is how you like your coffee! 

An hour later, your inbox chimes with another message. 

From: yangj@vesselsoft.co 

Subject: Thank You

You’re too kind, ____. Thank you for the coffee. How did you know just how I like it?

All the best, 

Jungwon

If his words make you smile a little too hard, well, you figure no one ever has to know. 

The universe, however, would seem to have other plans. 

Of everyone in the marketing department, you find your coworker Grace to be the most bearable. A few years older than you, she was by far the most welcoming when you joined the team. 

And you have the sneaking suspicion she has just as much disdain for your supervisor as you, even if the two of you have never openly discussed it. 

Unfortunately, she does have the fatal flaw of never being able to finish her work day without getting herself involved in someone else’s business. For the most part, you’re spared from her nosiness. 

Mostly because your life doesn’t carry the same flair for drama that she loves most. But today, she decides to give it a shot anyway. 

Standing behind your office chair, she nearly startles you out of your seat when she asks, “Who’s got you smiling like that?”

Closing the email as quickly as you can, you turn to face her. 

“No one.” It’s too rushed, too evasive. She sees right through it. 

“Mhmm.” 

Heat rising in your cheeks, you double down. “No, really.” Scrambling for a lie, your eyes land on one of your desk photos. One that shows your childhood cat, affectionately named Mr. Snuggles by your elementary school self. “I just heard from the vet that my cat is feeling a lot better. I was worried she was really sick.”

It’s a bold faced lie. Mr. Snuggles has been dead since your third year of high school. 

“Ah,” Grace says. Her features fall slightly as she realizes she won’t be getting a worthy scoop from you. Realizing that’s probably not an appropriate reaction, she forces a smile. “That’s great! I’m happy for you.”

“Thanks,” you nod, hoping it will mark the end of the conversation. 

But Grace isn’t quite ready to let it go. “That does remind me, though. I’ve been meaning to ask you something.”

Uh oh. 

“You’re not seeing anyone, right?” You’re not sure how a sick cat would remind her of your dating life, but you suppose there are larger mysteries to be solved. 

And on second consideration – oh. Is it really that obvious? “No,” the syllable drags as you attempt to tread carefully. “Why?”

Grace shrugs, but the conversation feels more calculated than nonchalant. “I was at my friend’s baby shower a couple of weeks ago, and her younger brother just moved back to the city. He’s been living abroad since high school. He’s around your age and a total catch. I didn’t talk to him much, but he reminded me of you a bit. I think the two of you would get on.” 

“Oh,” is all you say. Your uncertainty must be written all over your features, because Grace is quick to continue.

“No pressure, of course. But let me know if you’d like me to pass his number along.”

Do you? It’s been ages since you went on a date. And even longer since you went on a date with someone you’d describe as a total catch. 

And apparently, your single-ness is painfully visible to the people around you if Grace was able to pick up on it so easily. 

Besides, it might be nice, you think. To have a conversation with someone that isn’t about quarterly reports or upcoming deadlines or jammed printers. 

But then your mind wanders to the last conversation you had about a jammed printer. To a set of pretty, dark eyes and a pair of gentle hands. 

To a string of email conversations that don’t really mean anything. But you almost wish they did. 

It’s messy, you think. Far from ideal. JUngwon might not be in your department, but he still works just down the hall. Inter company relationships aren’t forbidden, but they do carry a certain amount of risk.

Jungwon isn’t petty. He wouldn’t make your life a living hell if things were to end badly. But you might start feeling awkward in the staff kitchen and you might have to start timing your walks to the parking lot so that they don’t coincide with his.

Small adjustments. Minor inconveniences more than anything.

Besides, it’s all conjecture. 

You can count the conversations you’ve had with Jungwon on your fingers, and the majority have been channeled through your work email. 

It’s hardly romantic. 

But even as you try to see things from a detached, logical perspective, one thought keeps swimming back to you.

You think you could talk about jammed printers forever, as long as it was with him. 

Sighing, your heart can’t decide if it wants to sink to your stomach or crawl up your throat at the realization. 

Turning back to Grace, you just offer her a tight smile. “I’ll let you know.”

…..

In the coming weeks, your coincidental run-ins with Jungwon start to become more and more frequent. 

First, it’s the two of you just so happening to need a coffee refill at the same time. When your path cross in the staff kitchen, you raise an eyebrow at the sugar packets he adds to his mug and he shakes his head as you take a long sip of your plain, bitter drink of choice. 

Then, it’s the morning in the parking lot when the two of you just so happen to arrive at the same time, pulling into adjacent parking spots. His smile is gentle, albeit a bit sleepy, when he bids you, “Good morning.” 

Your heart flutters a bit when you return the sentiment. You do your best to ignore it. 

Next, you stumble across him in the staircase on an otherwise quiet afternoon. This time, however, he’s already deep in another conversation. Or, you realize at second glance, trying very hard to wiggle his way out of another conversation. 

For all intents and purposes, Jenna from the legal department is a sweet girl. A bit overbearing at times and doesn’t always take well to being told no, but she’s harmless for the most part. Smart and driven and you admit a little glumly, quite pretty. 

Even underneath the overhead fluorescents in the stairway, she manages to avoid looking washed out. 

They’re already talking by the time you get there, and the only thing you catch is the tail end of their rather one-sided conversation. 

“It’s a great place, really,” Jenna insists, smiling a little too brightly. “And the food is to die for. They’re always running really unique specials. I think you’d really like it.”

And you could just turn around and pretend not to have seen anything. You could just take the elevator instead. In fact, you probably should. 

But suddenly, it’s as if your shoes have been filled with lead. Feet frozen to the earth, all you can do is watch. 

“Oh,” Jungwon reaches for the back of his neck. “Thanks for thinking of me, Jenna, but I don’t think I’ll be able to make it.”

“Oh, really?” she pouts. “Is there another night that would work bett–”

“Jungwon!” Your voice is too loud, reverberating off the walls of the stairway in a way that has two pairs of eyes immediately darting towards you. And interrupting had seemed like a good idea a few seconds ago, but now you realize your fatal mistake. 

You have no plan. No idea what to say next. 

Still, you force a smile. “Just the person I was looking for.”

You don’t think you’re imagining it, the immediate wash of relief that colors Jungwon’s features. 

“Hey, ___,” Jenna waves, a bit dejectedly. She doesn’t exactly look pleased to see you, and you can’t really blame her. “Could you give us a minute? I was just in the middle of–”

“Sorry, Jenna,” you shake your head. “This is kind of urgent.”

“Right,” Jungwon nods, looking at you again. “We’d better go then.”

“But I–”

“See you around, Jenna.” You’re tone is too bright as you spin around, making a beeline back towards the door. A flicker of satisfaction warms in your chest when you realize Jungwon is right on your heels. 

He waits until the two of you are back in the empty hallway, closed door serving as a barrier between you and Jenna, before he speaks. 

Looking at you, he quirks his head to the side. “So, what’s the urgent thing you need help with?”

Oh. Right. 

Sighing, you decide honesty, or at least partial honesty, might be your best bet. 

“Sorry,” your smile is sheepish, “did I read that wrong? There’s nothing urgent. I just…” you trail off, searching for the words. “It just looked like you might have needed an exit.”

For a moment, he says nothing. The silence gives your mind too much room to spin

Maybe you did read things wrong. Maybe he was enjoying a perfectly pleasant conversation with perfectly pleasant Jenna. Maybe he was looking forward to going to a nice restaurant with her and trying all sorts of unique specials and–

“Thank you.”

“What?”

Jungwon’s eyes soften. If you didn’t know any better, you’d almost describe his expression as… fondness. “An exit,” he clarifies. “I did need one. So thank you.”

“Right.” Your voice is suddenly breathless, and you can’t think of a good excuse for it. Feigning a nonchalance you don’t feel, you wave off his gratitude, “Anytime.” 

“Careful,” Jungwon warns, but the same hint of teasing, the same glimmer of affection, is still there. “I just might take you up on that.” 

“It’s a good thing I meant it, then.”

Jungwon’s features soften into a smile. A small one, meant just for the two of you. Reaching up, he pushes a stray strand of hair from his eyes. 

It’s only natural that you follow the movement. His hands are nice, you think. Long, lithe fingers, and–

You frown, eyes zeroing in on the knuckles of his right hand. 

Bruises, you realize. Dark, purple bruises span the length of his knuckles. Angry and mottled and from what you can tell, recent. 

And so many. You can’t imagine what he could have possibly done to earn them. 

Gaze still trained on the injury, your eyes widen. “Are you okay?”

It’s Jungwon’s turn to be confused. “What?”

“Your hand,” you nod at it. “Are those bruises?”

“Oh.” He shrugs, brushes it off like it’s nothing. But his hand falls to his side, obscured from your sight, all the same. “Yeah, I just slipped the other day trying to hang a picture in my apartment. The frame caught me funny when it fell.”

“You… slipped.”

Your disbelief must be apparent, because Jungwon is quick to add, “My hand slipped, really. My phone started ringing, and it caught me off guard.”

“Ouch,” you grimace. “That sounds like it hurt.”

Again, Jungwon shrugs. But his eyes are doing that thing again. Sparkling. “It’s not so bad.”

“Still,” you insist. “You should be more careful.”

“Yeah,” Jungwon agrees. It’s just the two of you, alone in a dimly lit hallway. His gaze is trained on yours. The distance between you is respectable, appropriate. Suggests that the two of you are coworkers and nothing more. But you have the distinct feeling that he’s not entirely talking about hanging pictures when he says, “I probably should.”

…..

The next morning, Grace is the first person you see as you walk into the office. And she’s already waiting for you. As soon as you come in, she hands you a coffee with an apologetic smile. 

“Uh oh.” You hang your coat, accepting the cup from her hands. It’s not unusual to receive coffee from a coworker, but it usually comes as a form of consolation. “What’s this for?”

“It’s from Alan, actually.”

Your lips flatten. “That doesn’t make me feel better.”

“It’s not that bad, really.” Grace’s smile is less than convincing. “He just wants us all to get together this Friday night after work at that bar down the street. Y’know, to network.”

You groan internally. There go your plans for a relaxing Friday at home. 

“How is it networking if it’s just our team? We see each other every day.”

“That’s the other part,” Grace nods towards the cup in your hand. “Didn’t you notice he pulled out all the stops? That’s from the shop down the road. The one that charges eleven dollars for a small latte.”

“Oh god,” you groan, this time audibly. “What else does he want?”

“We’ve all been strongly encouraged to invite people from different teams around the company.”

You suppress a strong urge to roll your eyes. “Of course we have.”

Privately, you think that if Alan wants to network so bad, he should be responsible for creating the guest list himself. Outwardly, you just sigh. 

As if you didn’t have enough on your plate already. Now you need to schmooze some other poor employee into wasting their Friday night talking about work. 

Sitting down at your desk, you take a sip of your coffee. It is admittedly delicious. The thought only makes you want to bang your head on your keyboard even more. 

The problem of finding a plus one follows you all the way through the afternoon. All the way to the workroom, where you once again stumble into a certain blonde programmer that’s beginning to feel like part of your daily routine. 

This time, Jungwon is alone. 

He’s frowning at the printer, brow furrowed. 

“Don’t tell me it’s jammed.” 

When he sees that it’s you, his features immediately soften. He smiles and something tugs at your heart. It’s enough to have you forgetting about Friday night, even if just for a moment. 

“No, thankfully. My computer just doesn’t seem to want to connect to this printer.”

“Mm,” you hum. “Send it to me, and I’ll try printing from mine.”

Jungwon shakes his head. “You don’t have to do that. I’ll just go up to the accounting department and try their printer.”

“Jungwon,” you level him with a look. “You are the last person to be telling me I don’t have to do you a favor. It’s really no problem. Just send it over.”

“Okay,” he finally relents. 

Waiting for it to ping through on your end, an idea suddenly strikes you. You’re not sure if it’s a good one or if your judgment is starting to be warped by all of the toner cartridge fumes, but here, in a quiet workroom with nothing but Jungwon and a half-working printer to keep you company, you find a bit of your bravery. 

“I know this probably isn’t your idea of a perfect evening,” you start. Your words feel too loud in this tiny space. “But the marketing team is getting together after work for drinks this Friday night. We’re also encouraged to branch outside of our department and invite other company employees, so if you’re free, we’d love to have you.” The more you say, the worse it sounds to your own ears. Why would anyone, much less Jungwon, want to come to a work event for the marketing team. Suddenly embarrassed you even brought it up, you find yourself rambling. “The bar is actually pretty nice. It’s not super fancy or anything, but it has, uh, really great chandeliers. It’s a nice ambience, and–”

“___.” Jungwon interrupts with the sound of your name. 

“Yeah?” You’re trying not to sound too hopeful, but you have the distinct feeling that you fail miserably. Despite your hesitance, you realize something. 

You want him to say yes. 

You want him to give you a different response than he gives everyone else. A different response than he gave Jenna. 

You want him to say yes, even though no one wants to go to a work event for the marketing team on a Friday night. 

You want him to say yes anyway, because it’s you. 

“I’d love to, really.” He reaches up, scratching at the back of his neck. “But I’m busy Friday night.”

Short. Succinct. To the point. He doesn’t spare any extra details. 

You already knew it was a long shot. But it stings all the same. 

You wanted to be the exception to the rule. Someone that would finally get him to say yes. Or at the very least, someone he would bother to give an actual reason for his absence to. 

“Oh.” Your voice is smaller than you mean for it to be. “Of course!” And now it’s too loud, too bright. You can’t find the happy medium, can’t find your natural tone. “I’m sure whatever it is will be way more fun, anyway.”

Jungwon just gives you a small smile, not bothering to affirm or refute your assumption. Not deigning to add any more details. 

It kind of makes you wish that the ground would open up and swallow you whole. 

“Well, I should probably get back to my desk.” You don’t know why you’re scrambling for excuses. Jungwon clearly doesn’t feel the need to provide any. “Did everything print okay?” You nod towards the small stack of papers in his hands. 

Jungwon is still looking at you. His lips part, as if he wants to say something. Brow creased, it’s as if he’s at war with himself. As if he can’t decide what to say or how to say it. 

After a beat, his mouth falls shut again. He gives a minute shake of his head. You watch as his hair sways in time with the movement. 

“Yeah,” he tells you. But he still hasn’t bothered to look down at the document between his fingers. “Everything printed fine.” 

“Okay.” You nod again. “Good.” Your voice sounds hollow in your ears. “Well, I’ll see you around, then.”

I’ll see you around?

I’ll see you around?

It takes all of your willpower not to cringe outwardly. It’s the most awkward, stilted thing you could have possibly said, but you’re not sure how else to fill the stifling silence. 

“Of course,” Jungwon nods. “Have a good day, ____.” The worst part is that he looks like he genuinely means it. “And enjoy your Friday night.”

“Right.” Your smile is feeble, doesn’t reach your eyes. “You too.” 

You’re so caught up in your own humiliation that you don’t notice the way his smile doesn’t quite reach his eyes either. “Sure thing.”

…..

Changing your clothes in the last stall of the office bathroom kind of feels like a new low for you. But by the time Friday evening comes around, the last thing you want to do is attend a mandatory – scratch that, highly encouraged – work event at a bar still wearing your blazer and slacks. 

The jeans and sweater you replace them with are still nice by any standard, but they’ll feel a bit less stifling after a handful of drinks. 

Grace, at least, seems to have the same idea. Deciding she’s by far the most bearable person of the evening, you slide down next to her in the booth. 

Of course, that thought only makes you think of another person you’d invited. Someone whose absence feels especially notable as you nurse the remnants of your first cocktail. 

You don’t really want to get drunk tonight. You don’t want to be here at all. 

You put in your forty hours of work this week, and the only place you want to be is at home in a pair of sweatpants. 

The only person that would have made it a little more worth it made it very clear that he had better things to do. The details of which, of course, he didn’t bother to share. 

The thought spurs you to take another long sip. 

You don’t want to get drunk. But you don’t want to think about him either. 

Besides, Grace doesn’t seem to share your reservations. 

It’s barely been forty minutes when she pulls out her phone, thoroughly tipsy, and decides that you are the best person to help her sort through her list of matches on her favorite dating app. 

“He’s cute, right?” She flashes her phone screen towards you. 

He is. You nod and tell her as much. 

His eyes might not sparkle very much. And his hair might not fall perfectly over his forehead. And he might not furrow his eyebrow in concentration whenever the printer in the workroom gives him a hard time –

No. 

Tonight is not about him. He made it very clear that he had no interest in being here tonight, and the last thing you’re going to do is spend the evening fixated on him. 

Grace, at least, seems willing to help on that front. 

“Oh,” she suddenly interjects from your side. “That reminds me. I’ve been meaning to show you a picture of my friend’s brother. You know, the one I mentioned a couple of weeks ago?”

It’s a bad idea, probably. You’re still feeling slighted and bitter and no matter how many times you tell it not to, your mind keeps wandering to Jungwon. 

Despite your reluctance, the cocktails are catching up with you. There’s a pleasant, slightly numb haze in your mind. It makes resistance feel futile. 

All you do is nod, and Grace starts searching for his social media profile. It takes her a few more tries than it would sober, but she does eventually find it. 

“Here,” she says, offering her phone to you. “His name is Jay. He grew up here until he left to go to an international high school. He’s been living abroad ever since, but he recently moved back. Their dad is pretty high up at a software development company. I think he came back because he landed a job there too.” 

You do your best to absorb the information, to nod along with what she says, but in all honesty, you’re quite distracted. 

Jay is quite distracting. His feed is well-curated without being overbearing. Covered in travel photos, unbelievably flattering candid shots, and stunning nature pictures, he immediately piques your interest. 

Not to mention the fact that he’s stunning. Maybe not quite as stunning as –

No. Again, you refuse to go there. 

You’re not sure if it’s the drinks or the photos or the spite that makes it suddenly feel like a good idea, but you’re telling Grace to pass your number along to Jay before you can think better of it. 

And if nothing else, at least he doesn’t seem like the kind of person that will make you wonder. Or even wait for long. 

You’ve barely gotten home, mind mostly clear even if it is still a bit muddled from the exhaustion of a long week, when your phone screen lights up with a notification. 

It’s just a string of numbers for now, but you’re quick to create a new contact. 

Hey, the message reads. This is Jay. Grace gave me your number. I hope that’s alright!

A few seconds later, another text comes through. 

Jay: How do you feel about art exhibitions? There’s one opening this weekend right next to one of the best coffee spots in the city. I’d love for you to join me. 

It’s simple. Straightforward. Not something you’ll search for subtext or pick apart for weeks. 

And it’s easy to respond to. 

You: That sounds great! I’ll look forward to it

…..

Another week at work passes with the same monotonous, sluggish flow as any other. But this time, it’s interspersed with messages you’ve started to look forward to. 

You’ve just sat down with your third cup of coffee on Monday morning when the first one chimes through. 

Jay: Good morning, ___. I hope your Monday is off to a better start than mine. 

A second message comes through. This one is an image. One that unmistakably shows a stack of papers covered in a dark brown stain you recognize all too well. 

You: Oh no! 

Pausing for a moment, your teeth worry at your bottom lip. Deciding to go for it, you send your own picture in return. 

The image of your full coffee cup goes through, along with another message. 

You: I think it might be. My coffee is still in my cup, at least

It takes him less than a minute to respond. 

Jay: Black coffee! Oh, you mean business. I’ll deny it if you tell anyone, but I always have to add sugar and cream to mine. 

You can’t help the smile that starts to spread over your lips. Sugar and cream. An aversion to bitterness. It reminds you of someone else that always adds a little sweetness to their –

Shaking your head, you force the comparison away. Putting the other man firmly out of mind, you decide to return Jay’s lighthearted message with one of your own.

You: Don’t tell anyone, but this is my third cup of the morning. 

Jay: Third cup of straight black coffee. Whew, remind me not to get on your bad side today. 

Jay: Speaking of which, do you always drink it black or could you be persuaded into something a little sweeter? 

He’s talking about coffee, yes, but it feels just a little bit like flirting. Biting at your lip again, you decide there isn’t much to lose.

Besides, it’s kind of… fun. You can’t remember the last time you were well and truly flirted with. 

You: Depends who’s asking

Jay: Hmm

Jay: I’ll have to work on my persuasion skills then

Jay: The place I’m taking you to on Saturday has an insanely delicious caramel latte, and I need to know what you think of it

You: Tempting

You: But I’m not sure I’m convinced 

Jay: I’ll work on that, then

You can’t hide your smile this time. 

A minute later, two more texts ping through. 

Jay: Duty calls, unfortunately

Jay: The rest of my Monday is stacked, so if I am slow to respond to any messages, that’s why. Enjoy the rest of your day, ___

He’s straightforward. Communicative. You appreciate the notice. The fact that if you do send another message without a response, you won’t have to waste your day wondering why. 

You: Ugh, don’t you hate it when you actually have to work at work?

You: I hope all goes well! Enjoy the rest of your day too, Jay

Setting your phone down, you return your gaze to your computer screen and unfortunately very full inbox. 

Your focus, however, remains half-occupied by a message thread sitting dormant on your tucked away phone. 

…..

Jay’s messages begin to become a highlight of your work day. Despite the fact that there’s often a large lapse in time due to both of your busy schedules, you start to anticipate every text he manages to send. 

And they only serve to build more excitement around your upcoming date. 

By the time Thursday comes around, you’ve all but mentally clocked out for the week. Refilling your water bottle in the staff kitchen, your mind is so occupied that you almost run right into the person coming through the door the same time you’re leaving. 

“Oh, I’m so sorry! I wasn’t looking where I was–”

“___.” The sound of your name stops you in your tracks. “Breathe,” Jungwon is smiling, but there’s a hint of concern there, too. “You’re okay.”

“Jungwon,” you exhale. Your frantic apology begins to subside, replaced by an overwhelming surge of self-consciousness as you tuck a stray strand of hair behind your ear. 

You haven’t spoken to him, haven’t even seen him, since he rejected your invitation last Friday. 

He’s not trying to pick at old wounds, but it still stings a bit when he asks, “How was Friday?”

“Oh, you know,” you shrug, “It was a typical work gathering.” Then again, it occurs to you that he might not know. Since he never bothers attending any of them. 

Not that it really matters. Besides, you’re lying a bit anyway. Typical work gatherings don’t usually end with you setting up a date. Not that you want Jungwon to know about that either. 

You can't pinpoint exactly why, but the thought of him knowing doesn’t sit with you quite right. Besides, it’s not like he’s ever shown any interest in your personal life, anyway. He would find it weird, most likely. Annoying, if you were to divulge any details. 

“Oh, well, I’m sorry again that I couldn’t come.” Just like that day in the workroom, he reaches back to scratch at his neck. You have the distinct sense that he’s the one who suddenly feels a bit awkward. “Friday nights are…” he trails off, “Friday nights are hard for me, usually. I’m always pretty free on Saturday mornings, thought, so if–”

“Don’t worry about it.” Oh god. Your intention certainly wasn’t to make him feel guilty for having a social life outside of the office. Suddenly worried that you read the situation all wrong, you’re quick to assure him, “You don’t have to come to anything that you don’t want to. And especially if you have plans already. I just asked you because my supervisor wanted us to invite people from other departments.”

If his face falls slightly, you’re too caught up in your own rambling to notice. 

“And, you know,” you continue, “since you helped me that day with the printer.” 

“The printer,” he echoes, voice suddenly hollow. “Right.”

“Right,” you echo. The room falls into silence again, and this time, it’s weighted with a horrible awkwardness neither of you can shake. 

“Well,” you finally say, holding up your bottle. “I got my water, so I’m gonna head back to my desk.”

“Yeah,” Jungwon nods. “Okay.”

“I’ll see you around?” It’s just as stilted as it was before, but you’re desperate for any way to exit this conversation. 

“Yeah,” Jungwon repeats. “Sure thing, ___.”

…..

By the time Saturday morning comes, you’re a mess of anticipation and frayed nerves. 

You’re early to arrive at the address of the coffee shop Jay sent you a few nights ago, but he’s already there waiting for you. And his social media might have painted an impressive picture, but one look tells you that it still doesn’t hold a candle to the real thing. 

Jay is gorgeous.

Almost as gorgeous as –

You kill the thought as soon as it comes. This day isn’t about him, and comparisons will do you little good. 

Instead, you refocus on your date. 

He’s polished and put together in an effortless sort of way. The kind of person that you see once in passing and then can’t stop thinking about for the rest of the week. His features are angular, sharp. But they soften into a warm smile the second he lays eyes on you. 

In the end, it doesn’t take him much convincing at all to persuade you to try the caramel latte. And he’s right. It is absolutely delicious.  

It was easy to fall into a natural rhythm over text, and your face-to-face conversation flows even better. 

He tells you about life abroad and all of his favorite parts of living in another country. He tells you about his family and what he missed most about this city he’s learning to call home again. 

He listens, actively, while you tell him the more mundane details of your own life. His questions are well-timed and never feel like interruptions. 

His kindness doesn’t feel like a facade. His interest doesn’t feel like a cheap trick to get what he wants from you and then disappear without a word. 

And when it becomes painfully apparent at the art exhibition that he’s far more well-versed in the subject than you, he doesn’t make you feel stupid. Instead, he takes his time explaining each piece. Highlights the aspects that would be most interesting to someone without any kind of background in art. 

He’s kind, considerate, and the day passes by in a blur of fleeting glances and shy smiles. At the end of it, he offers to drive you home and opens your car door for you. Small gestures that make you feel seen, considered. Valued. 

When he says goodbye with a hug that doesn’t last nearly long enough, the smell of his cologne is something you hope will linger as long as the memories of the day do. 

It’s easy, you think, as you watch his car drive away from your window. Jay is someone that’s easy to be around, to spend time with. 

And when he messages you later that night, reiterating his enjoyment of the day and asking to meet again, he’s easy to say yes to. 

…..

You’re not sure how, but the only person that seems even more excited than you about you and Jay is Grace. 

Despite the fact that your communication as of late hasn’t involved anything scandalous, she feels the need to rehash every detail until she’s heard it one hundred times. 

It doesn’t matter how many times you tell her that the last text message he sent you wasn’t anything to swoon over. In fact, it was rather short and unexciting. 

Jay: Have you seen my ring by chance? I remember wearing it that day I was in your car, and I haven’t been able to find it since then. 

But Grace won’t hear it. You’re not exactly sure what she heard from Jay’s sister, but she spends the rest of the coming week hounding you over the details regardless. 

The staff kitchen is hardly the place for conversations about your personal life, but the setting doesn’t seem to bother her at all. Instead, she pretends to be busy washing an already clean coffee mug while she asks again, “So you went out for the first time last Saturday, right?”

“Mhm,” you nod. 

“And then you got dinner together Wednesday night after work?”

“Yep.” You’re pretty sure she’s already asked the same question at least six times. 

“And he’s planning to take you out again this Saturday?”

“Right.”

“My god, you two are practically married.” She punctuates the absurd claim with a wistful sigh. 

“We most certainly are not.” 

“Okay, but you literally just met, and you’ve already seen each other twice with plans for a third.”

She does have a point there. Never mind the fact that you haven’t dated anyone in a while. It is a quick timeline, no matter how you look at it. But you’ve been itching to spend time with him ever since your first date, and Jay seems to be on the same page. 

It feels fast, yes, but it doesn’t feel forced. For you, that’s what matters most. 

That, along with the fact that a certain someone has been noticeably absent from your mind the more time you spend with him. For now, you’ll choose not to read too much into that. 

“God,” Grace sighs again. “I miss going on dates.”

“What are you talking about? Didn’t you go on one a couple weeks ago?” You distinctly remember helping her set it up that night at the bar after work.

“Well, yeah, but I mean good dates. You know, getting properly wined and dined and all that. I guess I’ll just have to live vicariously through you.” 

“We went to dinner once, and there was hardly any wine involved.”

She rolls her eyes. “You know what I mean. All I’m saying is you’re lucky to be seeing someone that actually puts in effort for your dates and doesn’t just take you to the closest bar to his office and hope that buying you a handful of drinks means he’ll get lucky.” Pausing for a moment, she looks up, eyes landing somewhere just over your shoulder. “Right, Jungwon?”

Immediately, it’s as if you’ve been submerged in ice cold water. Because there’s no way she said–

“Jungwon?” Turning around, you’re put face to face with the last person you wanted to overhear this particular conversation. 

“Hey, ___.” There’s a smile on his lips. Small as always, but something feels wrong about it. “Grace,” he nods at the girl over your shoulder. “Sorry,” he’s still looking at her, “were you asking me something?”

“No, we were just leaving, actua–”

Grace pays you no attention. “Just telling ___ how lucky she is that her man actually puts effort into their dates, since it feels like such a rarity these days.”

“He is not my man.” The glare you send your coworker is lost as Jungwon turns back to you, eyes wide, gaze indecipherable. 

“You’re dating someone?”

“I…” The easy, most available answer is yes, but you’re having a hard time getting it out. And there are other semantics involved. 

Are you dating? Not really. That usually indicates some kind of commitment, exclusivity. Going on dates might be a better way to put it. But clarifying that miniscule distinction for Jungwon feels strange for some reason. 

“My friend’s brother,” Grace supplies unhelpfully from the corner. “What can I say? I’m a natural born matchmaker.” Her proud smile is lost on the both of you. You’re only looking at each other. 

“Oh.” Jungwon’s voice is small, hollow. “That’s nice. I’m happy for you.”

You want to scream, just a little bit. Or maybe cry. You can’t make up your mind. 

And you’re not sure where it comes from, the sudden, overwhelming surge of guilt that begins to build in your gut. You can’t even decipher who it’s directed towards. Towards Jungwon? Towards Jay? Towards yourself? 

Grace, despite her self-proclaimed talent for setting up dates, is apparently incredibly inept at reading the room. With no prompting but her own, she’s pushing forward. “He lived abroad for a while and just moved back to the city, which is like, the perfect scenario for going on dates. And he’s always had a flair for romance. I remember–”

“Well,” you interrupt, desperate for an out, “we better get back to the project we were working on—“

“What project?” Grace, it would seem, is determined to be anything but helpful.

“You know,” you glare at her, “our project.”

“Right!” She looks sheepish, finally catching the hint. “That project.”

Turning back to Jungwon, you can still see the rigidity of his features. The tension that has yet to ease. “I’ll…” you’re not sure how to part ways now without making things worse. But it feels wrong to just leave without saying anything. For the third time in the span of days, you tell him, “I’ll see you around.”

And for the third time, he agrees, “Yeah.” This time, however, his eyes still flickering with annoyance, shoulders still set with residual frustration. “Sure thing, ___.”

It’s what he always says, you realize. But this time, it’s missing that easygoing, genuine lightness he usually says it with. 

This time, it sounds like rejection.

Yours or his, you’re not entirely sure.

…..

You manage to avoid Jungwon for the rest of the week. It’s ironic, almost. You were so worried about pursuing a potential relationship with him because you wanted to avoid this exact scenario. 

Now, a handful of dates with someone who is very much not him tucked under your belt, you still feel the need to turn and walk the other direction whenever you think you hear his voice or get a glimpse of blonde hair. 

But the office is only so big, and there are only so many corners to duck into. Barely a week has passed the next time you unwittingly bump into him. 

“Oh,” you startle slightly, walking into the workroom and already finding it occupied. And of course you’d run into him here, of all places. Kneeling in front of the printer, his brow is furrowed in concentration as he tries to dislodge yet another paper jam. 

“Sorry.” You’re not sure what you’re apologizing for exactly, but it feels warranted regardless. “I’ll just leave, and—”

“___,” he cuts you off with the sound of your name. Looking down at him, you're met with the expanse of his back. A button down shirt tucked into dark pants. Standard work attire that has no business looking this ridiculously good on anyone. “You’re fine. You don’t need to leave. Just give me a second, and the printer’s all yours.” 

You nod, even though he can’t see you. If the lack of a verbal response bothers him, he doesn’t show it. Instead, he busies himself with the jammed printer, muscles of his back flexing slightly underneath the fabric of his shirt as he tugs at the stubborn papers. 

Cheeks heating slightly, you force your gaze elsewhere. 

“There,” he says after another minute of adjustments. Standing to full height, he turns to face you. “All fixed.”

Looking up at him, you’re about to offer a quiet thanks when your eyes land on his right cheekbone. Specifically, the fresh cut that spans the length of it. 

The gasp the spills from your lips is entirely without permission. But you can’t quite help it. The wound is quite superficial, surface level at most, but it mars his otherwise perfect skin in a way you weren’t prepared for. 

Without your permission, your fingers start to reach towards the injury. They make it halfway before you remember yourself, before you regain your sense of reality. Your hand falls limply back to your side. 

“What happened?” You breathe. 

Jungwon’s brows draw together in confusion for a moment before a flicker of realization dances across his features. 

“Oh.” He exhales, fingers tapping against the broken skin of his cheekbone lightly. “Nothing. I just, er, fell the other day.”

“You fell,” you echo. Like all of his other excuses, it’s vague. Flimsy at best. 

“Yeah,” he confirms with a slight nod. Again, he says, “I fell.”

It’s evasive. And it feels like more than just an explanation for his injury. 

It feels like confirmation of the distance between the two of you. His final assertion that you’re nothing but a coworker to him. Someone that he tells edited versions of stories to, someone that he keeps firmly planted an arm’s length away. 

Fine. If he wants to give you shitty excuses for his Friday nights and his absences at work events and now his injury that very obviously did not come from a fall, that’s just fine with you. 

After all, he’s nothing but a coworker to you either. The upcoming date you have planned with Jay is enough to prove it. 

“Well,” you tell him, forcing a smile. The fake, disproportionately bright kind that you only ever use with your coworkers. “I hope it heals quickly.”

And then you’re brushing past him, making your way towards the printer as if he’s nothing but an obstacle in your path. 

Collecting your freshly printed document, you turn and walk out the door without so much as a backward glance. 

…..

Sliding into the passenger seat of Jay’s car Thursday evening, you feel the stress melting from your shoulders the second the door shuts behind you. 

This is something else he makes easy: forgetting about whatever woes you managed to acquire after a long day of work. Jay just smiles as you sit down next to him, turning down the volume on the radio as he asks about your day. 

Tonight, the two of you are headed to one of your favorite diners. Somewhere where you can chat and laugh and relax over a pile of french fries and obnoxiously gaudy decor. 

But before you turn down the street that leads to the restaurant, Jay asks if the two of you can make a quick stop. 

“I left my bag at the gym last night,” he explains apologetically. “Do you mind if I swing by and grab it real quick? It’s on our way.”

You reassure him that it’s no problem, and a handful of minutes later, the two of you are parked outside of a rather nondescript, faded building. 

Frowning slightly, your eyebrow quirks up in surprise. Although he hasn’t outright disclosed anything, from what you’ve gathered so far, Jay’s family is quite well off. The kind that pays for expensive memberships at bougie gyms with saunas and swimming pools. Not the kind that frequents dark, run down gyms in the middle of a random residential area. 

Pulling his key from the ignition, Jay turns to you. “You can wait here, if you want.”

“That’s okay.” You’re already unbuckling your seatbelt. “I’m tired of sitting, anyway.” You really are. Plus, you have to admit that you’re kind of curious. 

You fall into step at his side as the two of you make your way towards the building. The closer you get, the more decrepit it appears. Paint is peeling from the exterior, leaving it an odd, mottled brown color riddled with rust marks. 

Even the sign, Kang’s Gym, is small, faded, and only visible once you’re nearly to the entrance. 

Jay steps in front of you, holding the door open for you to enter. 

The inside, you realize as you step in, is in no better shape than the outside. The wall closest to you is lined with weightlifting equipment that looks as if it were pulled from past decades. 

Padding is torn in places, and questionable stains cover the place, accumulated from years of use. 

You’re about to ask him outright why on earth he patronizes such a run down place when your eyes land on the far wall of the gym. There, you think you find your answer. 

There’s no weightlifting equipment or cardio machines. Instead, the majority of available space is filled with several sets of boxing rings. Like the rest of the gym, they’re equally faded and worn with years of use. 

But the lighting in that part of the gym is noticeably better. Far brighter, more intentional. As if the rest of the gym is just for show and that is the true purpose of this building. 

You’re suddenly overcome with the urge to take a second glance at your date. 

He has a lean, athletic build, yes. The kind that you assumed came from some kind of regular exercise regiment and not his office job. 

But boxing wasn’t exactly what you expected. 

Jay turns to you. His expression gives nothing away, holds no indication that this is anything out of the ordinary for him. “I think I left it over by the locker rooms.” 

Encasing your hand in his, he leads you towards the rings. Several of them are occupied, mostly by one-on-one sparring matches. 

Walking past the first one, the two men inside the ring turn to look at you and Jay as you pass. 

“Hey, man,” the first one offers with a nod of recognition that Jay returns. As his eyes slide over to you, they widen slightly in surprise. Gaze falling to your intertwined hands, the man just shakes his head slightly before returning to his sparring partner. 

Moving past them, you shake the odd interaction from your mind. 

You spare fleeting glances for the rest of the people you pass. For a moment, you try to imagine Jay in the ring instead of them. It’s an odd contradiction with what you’ve come to associate with him. 

Easygoing. Considerate. Even tempered. They’re traits that feel at odds with the kind of stark physicality required in a boxing ring. 

Then again, the more you consider it, the more you start to make sense of it. Jay is all of those things, yes, but there’s also an undercurrent of something else. 

A quiet intensity he carries with him. Something he has control over. Something he can channel when needed. 

The more you think about it, the easier it is to picture him in the ring, throwing precise, calculated punches until victory rests on his square shoulders. 

You’d be lying if you said the mental image didn’t pique your interest. You’re about to ask him if he’ll let you watch next time he’s in the ring when a flash of color in the last boxing ring, the one closest to the locker rooms, catches your attention. 

It’s unlikely. It feels impossible. Even more so than the thought of Jay in a boxing ring. But as you draw closer, you confirm your suspicions. 

After all, you would know that shade of blonde anywhere. 

It takes everything in you not to stop dead in your tracks. But even as you continue forward, hand still encased in Jay’s, your eyes are trained solely on the space between Jungwon’s broad shoulders. 

It’s almost inhuman, the feline agility that he moves with. He’s smaller than his opponent, but he’s faster. Lighter on his feet. 

The punches he throws are dizzyingly accurate, and his sparring partner seems to think the same. A muted thud is followed by a string of expletives that become more clear the closer you get. 

“Jesus, Jungwon.” The man across from him is still a bit breathless as he recovers from having the wind knocked out of him. “Bad week at work or something?”

“C’mon, Heeseung.” It doesn’t sound anything like the Jungwon you know. Gone is the quiet friendliness you’ve always heard from him. His voice is still gentle, but it carries an unmistakable command. “Stop going easy.”

“I’m not,” the other man – Heeseung – argues. “What has gotten into you? It’s like you’ve been insane since that match last week.” 

“Whatever,” Jungwon scoffs, shaking his head. “Let’s just take five.” 

“Make it ten,” Heeseung goads across from him. 

Jungwon sends him a warning glare, but says nothing. Instead, he reaches for his water bottle at the corner of the ring, leaning against the ropes that enclose it. 

All you can do is watch, suddenly fascinated by the way sweat darkens his hair, trails down the length of his neck. Jungwon gives a quick shake of his head, sending his hair scattering over his forehead as he leans further into the ropes behind him.

Tipping his head back, his throat works against a swallow as he takes a long drink from his water bottle. 

Jungwon sets his water bottle down, turning towards Heeseung like he’s about to say something else when movement catches his attention. 

More specifically, your movement. His eyes fall on you, and for a moment, you’re rendered just as immobile as him. His gaze widens in recognition and then suddenly, he’s standing. 

Long strides eat up the length of the boxing ring as he crosses it, every step bringing him closer to you. With a distinct sort of grace and practiced ease, he jumps over the side of the ring, landing on his feet just as you and Jay pass him. 

With a hand on your shoulder, he stops you both in your tracks. His touch is gentle, but commanding. It leaves little room for argument. 

“This is the guy you’ve been seeing?” Jungwon’s eyes are molten lava. If you thought that day in the staff kitchen was the most visible emotion he was capable of mustering, you were sorely mistaken. The Jungwon that stands in front of you now is simmering with it, vibrating with barely contained emotions. 

At your side, Jay turns back. With your hand still enclosed in his, Jay’s gaze goes straight towards Jungwon’s hand on your shoulder. 

“Jungwon,” he nods coolly. 

Jungwon ignores him entirely. His gaze is still trained directly on you. 

Glancing between the both of them, the tension between them is palpable. Over Jungwon’s shoulder, you can see Heeseung leaning against the edge of the boxing ring as if he can’t decide whether to intervene or not. 

“Well,” you say, attempting to diffuse a bit of the rising animosity, “I guess I don’t need to introduce the two of you, then.”

This time, it’s you that Jungwon ignores. Turning to Jay, he’s all venom. “And you brought her here? What the hell are you doing?”

“Relax, man.” Jay rolls his eyes. “We’re just grabbing my bag.”

“I don’t give a fuck what you left here,” he bites. “You know better than to–”

Shaking his hand off your shoulder, annoyance makes itself visible across your features. It’s one thing for Jungwon to be pissy towards your date, but it’s another entirely for him to assume that you can’t handle something as mundane as a boxing gym. 

And if you're honest, the whole overprotective act just rubs you the wrong way. Why does he think he gets to ignore you all week at work and then act like he knows what’s in your best interest?

“I think I can handle watching people throw a few punches, Jungwon.” Your voice is all ice, and it changes his demeanor immediately. The anger begins to dissipate, leaving him with wide eyes that beg for your understanding. 

The frustration is still there, though. “That’s not what I meant, ___.”

“I don’t really care what you meant.” You’re not sure if it’s true, but you want it to be. For now, that’s enough. “Why don’t you go back to your friend and pretend like you never saw me. You’re good at that, right?”

It’s a low blow. And it has his features falling immediately, eyebrows slackening as if you’ve slapped him. 

His voice is notably gentler when he says your name. “___…”

This time, it’s Jay that speaks. “I suggest you listen to her, man. We’ll be out in a few minutes.”

Jungwon wants to say more. You can see it in the way his mouth twitches, in the way his shoulders still rise with tension. Finally, he relaxes. Just a fraction of an inch, but you know it’s over. At least for now. 

He doesn’t say anything, but he does take a step back. And then another. 

His eyes are still on you, even as Jay keeps walking, pulling you gently along with him. 

By the time he finds his bag and the two of you make your way back out, Jungwon is nowhere to be found. 

You can still feel eyes on you, though. 

This time, it’s Heeseung’s gaze that follows you all the way out the door. 

Back in Jay’s passenger seat, you turn towards your date, a million questions swimming in your mind. 

“What on earth was that all about?”

Jay just frowns, knuckles white against the steering wheel. Instead of answering, he asks a question of his own. “How do you know him?”

“What?” Too confused to protest, you answer. “We work together.” Then you repeat, “What’s going on?”

Jay sighs, leans his head back against his seat. “He’s in marketing with you?”

“No,” you shake your head. “Programming. I don’t want to ask you again.” This time, you can’t help the expletive. “What the fuck was that?”

“We…” Jay trails off, searching for an explanation. “We know each other.”

“Yeah, no shit. How?”

“We went to the same middle school, before I left for high school. He was a year behind me.”

“And what?” You ask, trying to think of what kind of feud middle schoolers could possibly have that would warrant tonight’s interaction. “He stole your lunch money and you never got over it?”

“Not quite.” His lips are tight. “Look, ___. I know you can’t help who you work with, but Jungwon… he’s not who you think he is.”

“And you are?”

Jay turns to you, hurt clearly written across his features. “That’s not fair.”

“No,” you argue, doubling down. “What’s not fair is giving me vague half truths about my coworker and expecting me to just agree blindly while you evade all of my questions.” A moment of silence passes. Jay says nothing. Finally, you tell him, “If you’re not going to be honest with me, then I think you should just take me home.”

“Wait, ___–”

“I’m serious, Jay. I’m not about to go have dinner with you and pretend that this didn't just happen. Just take me home.” Softening a bit at the obvious distress on his face, you add a quiet, “Please.”

You won’t compromise your boundaries, but you don’t have it in you to be needlessly cruel, even if his evasiveness bothers you to no end. 

Jay just sighs, pulling into an empty parking lot before turning around and heading in the opposite direction. Towards your apartment. 

The rest of the car ride passes in stilted silence, neither of you willing to break it. 

Jay is the first one to speak, but it’s not until you’re sliding out of his passenger seat, back turned towards him. 

“Good night, ___.”

For a moment, you consider just ignoring him. But it feels petty, even for these circumstances. For now, you’ll just have to trust that he needs time to find a way to tell you the truth. 

“Good night,” you tell him. But you still don’t look back.

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READ PART TWO HERE

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note: I AM SO ANNOYEDDDDD this was all supposed to be one long fic, not two parts, but tumblr's post block limit got me. Honestly I don't know how I avoided it this long. Anyway the second part is written and will be posted soon. In the meantime, let me know what you're thinking so far! As always, thank you for reading ♡

[section-chief-prentiss]

puzzled

Summary: In your spare time, you and Emily start working on a puzzle in her office. 

Pairing: Emily Prentiss/Reader 

Word Count: 2429

Ao3

“You can refresh your email as much as you want,” JJ teased from the desk next to yours. “But it’s not going to make a case appear.”

You sighed, glancing over your computer at the blonde agent sitting across from you. Her light hair was thrown back in a ponytail, and she had a light blue blouse on and black slacks. Her legs were crossed, and she looked at you with amusement in her sparkling eyes.

“Four days,” you said, running a hand through your messy hair. “We haven’t had a case in four days.” 

“For the first time since joining the team, I’m caught up on paperwork,” Luke commiserated from his desk a few feet away. “I never knew four days could feel so long.” 

Spencer whirled around in his desk chair, his brown, curly hair flying in every direction. “A recent study found that bored participants tended to think more about time, which caused it to feel like it was moving slower. Since we’re accustomed to frequently working on cases, it’s only natural that the unexpected downtime we’re experiencing would cause us to feel that time is moving more slowly than it is.”

You set your hands on your desk and pushed yourself up to a standing position. “I’m going to see if Emily has anything for us. Maybe that’ll help time move faster.” 

Spencer perked up. “Time doesn’t actually speed up when we’re occupied; it’s only our perception that—”

A groan from the rest of the team drowned out the rest of what Reid was going to say, as you navigated your way out of the bullpen and up the stairs toward Emily’s office.

You knocked twice on her door, straining to hear her response on the other side. 

“Come in!”

You opened the door a crack and peeked your head through the space. “Are you busy?” 

Emily cracked a smile. “As busy as any of you are.”

You made your way inside, closing the door behind you, and took a seat in one of the chairs opposite Emily’s desk. The Unit Chief’s raven hair hung in a curtain around her face, her bangs perfectly cut just below her eyebrows. She wore a long-sleeved red shirt—your favorite color on her. 

“No new case yet?”

Emily sat forward in her chair, clasping her hands together and resting them on her desk. “Not yet, it appears all serial killers have taken the week off.”

“Do you have paperwork you need help with?” 

Emily chuckled. “You’re so bored that you’re asking for paperwork?”

You frowned at her. “Em, I’m desperate.”

Emily’s brown eyes locked with yours for a moment. She bit her bottom lip—her tell that gears were turning, and an idea was forming in her mind. 

Nodding, she opened one of her desk drawers, reaching for something you couldn’t see.

“Hotch left this in his desk when he resigned,” Emily said, setting a box down between you.

The top of the box showed a 1000-piece puzzle depicting dolphins cresting over waves, a sunset behind them. 

You softened, thinking of the previous Unit Chief, who’d left the team to enter witness protection to keep himself and his young son safe from a serial killer. 

“Aww, for Jack?”

“No,” Emily grinned. “It was for him. He loved puzzles, said they helped him focus on a case when he was stuck.”

You picked up the box, studying the image. There were a lot of similar shades of blue, but you hoped that would present enough of a challenge to keep you entertained while you waited for a case to come in.

“Are you gonna help me with this?” you asked. 

From your first day at the BAU, being in the same room as Emily caused butterflies to flit around in your stomach. Her kind eyes, her dark hair, the confidence she strutted around the BAU with—you couldn’t help but feel drawn to her. But you’d never had the nerve to ask if she felt the same way.

You were sure she couldn’t. Even if she did, the HR nightmare of entering a relationship with your superior was likely something neither you nor Emily were willing to risk. You both loved your jobs too much, cared too much about helping people, to put any of that in jeopardy.

You watched Emily as she weighed your offer, her eyes flitting from yours to the stack of unfinished paperwork on her desk. 

“It’s either the puzzle, or we sit in here in silence working on paperwork,” you said. “Which sounds more fun?”

“Fuck it,” Emily said. “A break wouldn’t hurt anyone.”

Your face lit up with a grin. “Exactly.”

You both relocated to the couch at the far end of her office, and you set the puzzle box on the coffee table in front of it. Emily cleared off the table while you opened the box and flipped the contents onto the table.

“Edges first?” you asked.

“What am I, a sociopath?” Emily joked. “Of course edges first.”

You giggled, searching through the pile for any border pieces. “In college, my ex-boyfriend refused to start with outside pieces when we’d work on puzzles together. He said it was too easy and he wanted to engage his brain.” 

“Gee, why did you ever break up?” Emily asked dryly.

“He cheated on me. Repeatedly.” 

“Like I said,” Emily paused, holding up a corner piece as evidence. “Sociopath.” 

You tried, and failed, to fight the smile tugging at your lips. She was right—your ex, Sam, was a douchebag. You deserved better than how he treated you.

And you hoped that better was sitting next to you.

You fell into a comfortable silence as you worked, sorting through pieces. While Emily searched for edge pieces, you transitioned into organizing the middle pieces into piles by color. 

Once that was done, you collaborated on putting the frame of the puzzle together—Emily assembling the sunset on the top half, and you focusing on the varying shades of blue that made up the water on the bottom half.

As you snapped the two halves of the border together, there was a knock at Emily’s door, startling both of you. 

Emily grinned. “Come in!”

Penelope rushed through the door, file in hand. “We got a case.”

An hour ago, you would’ve loved nothing more. Now, you were already missing this one-on-one time with Emily.

“I guess we should clean this up,” you said, reaching for the box.

Emily put a hand out, stopping you. “That’s okay; we’ll leave it here. Work on it during our downtime.”

You raised an eyebrow at her, silently wondering when the next time would be that you had downtime. But you weren’t about to turn down the offer, so you nodded.

“I’ll grab the team.” 

***

On the elevator ride back to the sixth floor at the end of the day, you felt yourself nodding off, head bobbing up and down in an attempt to keep yourself conscious.

The rest of the team was too exhausted to comment on it. The elevator ding startled you awake, and you moved through the BAU on autopilot, beelining for your desk and grabbing your bag so you could get home as soon as possible and sleep for a few hours before you had to pick up the case in the morning. 

Fortunately, the case kept you in D.C., so you’d get to sleep in your own bed tonight. Throughout the day, the team scattered between the BAU, Metro P.D., and various crime scenes, assisting where you could. 

But before you could hightail it to your car, the light on in Emily’s office caught your attention.

“See you tomorrow,” Tara mumbled, rubbing the sleep from her eyes.

“Yeah, see you tomorrow,” you said, making your way toward Emily.

You were too exhausted to bother with knocking—it had been a long, emotionally exhausting day, and you couldn’t bring yourself to care about protocol. 

Emily was sitting up on her brown leather couch, her head tucked toward her chest, fast asleep. There was a puzzle piece in her hand.

You took a moment to memorize this moment, since you knew if you pulled out your phone to take a picture, Emily would actually murder you. 

Her hair was still perfect, somehow, even after a day of running around. Her blouse and pants were wrinkled from all of the activity, and as you walked toward her, you saw that she’d even fallen asleep with her shoes on.

You reached out to gently touch her shoulder and whispered, “Emily.”

She woke with a start, wincing from the light but searching for danger.

“You’re fine,” you said softly. “You just fell asleep.”

“I wanted to… work on it,” she yawned, gesturing to the half-completed puzzle. 

Earlier, while the team was building a profile and getting frustrated that things weren’t lining up, Emily suggested the puzzle. The team had gathered around the coffee table, debating which parts of the profile would need to be changed. The whole time, you kept your gaze on Emily, as if you were still the only two in the room.

You took a seat on the couch next to her. “We can work on it tomorrow.” Or so you hoped, assuming the case had wrapped up by then. 

Em nodded but didn’t move. You slid forward on the couch to get a better look at the progress your team had made on the puzzle, and you were impressed. Most of the bottom half was done—the difficult part, mostly due to Spencer—which just left the hues of red, pink, orange, and gold of the sunset. 

As you admired the puzzle, one piece jumped out to you—half red, half pink—and you saw immediately where it needed to go. You popped it into place and started searching for the next one. 

Next to you, Emily took the piece she’d been holding and slid it into place. Surely it couldn’t hurt to add just a few more pieces. You could always drink coffee in the morning if you needed a pick-me-up.

Your previous exhaustion melted away as you focused on your task—entering a flow state where nothing mattered except the picture in front of you and the women beside you.

You weren’t sure how much time had passed when you found yourself staring at the last few gaps, scattered in various places around the image that needed to be filled in. 

It wasn’t until you were down to your last three pieces—you and Emily had taken to silently alternating back and forth, and at this rate, you were poised to put the last piece in—that you realized there was one missing. 

Maybe you were just tired, you told yourself. It had to be here somewhere. Hotch was too organized to have ever lost a piece. 

You put down a piece that filled in the last piece of one of the dolphins. Emily finished off part of the sunset on the horizon line, but there was a gap where one piece needed to fill in the blueish-purple tints in the sky.

You frowned, glancing at the floor around you.

“Are we missing one?” Your voice was scratchy from tiredness and the fact that you and Emily had mostly worked in silence.

Next to you, Emily was silent as you peeked under the table before standing to search the couch cushions.

When you turned up empty, you sat back down with a sigh. “Well, that’s disappointing.” 

You glanced over to Emily to find her face flushed and hands balled in her lap. Her beautiful, dark eyes wouldn’t quite meet yours.

“Are you okay?”

Her light skin turned an even deeper shade of red as she unballed her right fist. Sure enough, the missing piece was sitting in the middle of her palm.

You laughed. “Em, if you wanted to place the last piece yourself, you could’ve just said so.”

“It’s not that,” she said, putting the piece on the table but not in its spot. “I, um, didn’t want to finish it because I’ve really enjoyed spending time with you.” Her voice dropped to a whisper. “I didn’t want it to be over.”

Your heart raced. Were you deliriously tired, or was Emily really saying this?

You opened your mouth to respond, but when no sound came out, you closed it again.

Emily swore, burying her face in her hands. “I knew it,” her voice was muffled. “I knew I was reading this all wrong.”

She looked up to face you, and your heart sank in your chest. “I don’t want to make things uncomfortable for you; if you could just forget I even said that—”

“Em!” You interrupted. “I feel the same way.”

But Emily was already shaking her head. “No, you don’t have to say that. This was so inappropriate of me; I’m sorry, Y/N. I’m too tired to be thinking clearly…”

“Emily,” you said forcefully. You took her hand in yours and smiled, color flooding your cheeks. “You don’t understand. I feel the same way.”

The raven-haired beauty’s eyes widened as she took in your words. “Oh! Oh.” 

“Yeah,” you said with a giggle. “But I know it would be complicated, and I don’t want to mess with either of our careers.”

Emily sobered at that. “Neither do I.”

“But…” you hedged, glancing at the clock. “It’s 4 in the morning, and we need to be back here in two hours, so the time for good decisions has already passed.”

Before you could lose your nerve, you picked up the last piece and snapped it into its place. But you couldn’t even bring yourself to marvel at the completed image, because the person sitting next to you was even more mesmerizing. 

Pressing your palms against Emily’s face, you pulled her toward you until her lips were crashing against yours.

It felt even better to kiss her than you’d imagined. Her lips were soft, and even after a long day, she still smelled of her floral perfume. You ran your fingers through her soft hair, and Emily moaned against your mouth. 

Emily’s hands gripped your waist, pulling you closer. Where you touched, your body hummed with electricity and desire. 

Too soon, you pulled back. 

“You have no idea how long I’ve been waiting for that,” you confessed. 

“I’d hate to make you wait again,” Emily said, a teasing smile on her lips. “But if we want any sleep tonight, we should probably head out.” 

You pretended to ponder that before shrugging. 

“Who needs sleep?” you mumbled, throwing yourself once more into Emily’s welcoming embrace.

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[addictedtostorytelling]

hi aj! hope you're doing well ❤ i always love your theories and interpretations and i was thinking... what do you think grissom and sara's story would have been like if grissom had not stayed her supervisor, back in season 1? like if sara had indeed come to vegas but he did not remain her superior at work. do you think he'd have acted on his feelings sooner than he did in canon? thanks ❤

hi, anon!

thank you for your kind words! i'm so glad you enjoy my work. i hope you're doing well, too. ❤

re: your question:

so, to me, the fact that grissom and sara do eventually have a romantic relationship for two+ years while he is still very much actively her supervisor suggests deference to that particular rule is never really a main issue in keeping them apart in the beginning.

grissom's behavior during s5/s6/s7 insinuates: had he otherwise felt ready to date sara during the first four and a half years she lived in vegas, he likely would have done so (albeit perhaps in secret), department policy be damned.

grissom might list the "but i can't! i'm her boss!" excuse when he is attempting to rationalize to himself why he shouldn't act on his feelings for sara, but at the end of the day, that's all that it is—an excuse.

when he finally works through his real hang-ups that are preventing him from having that relationship, he no longer allows his employment status to hold him back at all.

he dates the fuck out of that girl while he is still giving her annual performance reviews and signing off on her overtime requests, and, honestly? he seems relatively unfussed about doing so.

he is not so much of a rule-follower as to lose sleep over flaunting department policy.

that so, i don't think it's necessarily a given that removing that specific impediment to their relationship would get grissom and sara together any faster than is the case in canon, not unless he also simultaneously were to overcome the real obstacle that is holding him back from giving in to his heart anyhow—namely, his fear of rejection.

see, for as much as grissom points to the department policy forbidding romantic relationships between members of the same forensics team as the or at least a main reason why he shouldn't romantically pursue sara, in reality the thing that really holds him back from jumping in with both feet with her is his deep-seated fear that her love for him is conditional/impermanent.

he fears that despite sara wanting him now, she may not always in the future continue to want him—and especially not once she "draws back the curtain" and gets a full view of him, including his (what he views as) egregious personal flaws.

before sara moves to vegas, her view of grissom is an incredibly limited one, and he is highly aware of this fact. she only gets to see/interact with him in person at conferences and over long weekends, and their communication outside of those brief intervals is otherwise relegated to phone calls, emails, and letters; insulated, as it were, by distance and time.

with 500+ miles between them 99% of the year, she doesn't possess the kind of up-close vantage of him that might allow her to otherwise recognize his (as he opines) numerous failing points and deficiencies of character; she only has access to an idealized version of him—“conference grissom,” who has only to refrain from making a fool of himself in her presence for just a few hours or days at a time before he can retreat back to his safe and secluded everyday life (without her) across state lines and regroup before their next fleeting encounter.

for as long as grissom only interacts with sara on such a limited basis, he is fairly confident in his ability to keep her interest. after all, it's easy to put his best foot forward for such modest periods of time, and particularly when he is "in his element" attending conferences or breezing in for short, romantic visits.

however, once grissom—somewhat impulsively—invites sara to move to his city and join his forensics team, he no longer has that barrier of distance to shield him.

now sara is living and working every night in close proximity to him, and suddenly he has to be "on" in her presence all the time.

she's seeing him not only bathed in the limelight of conference stages but under the dingy, unflattering fluorescents of their shared place of work, oftentimes in fraught and stressful situations.

even far more socially-adept persons than he would have a hard time consistently impressing under such high-stakes circumstances, so considering his (in his view) numerous deficits where the interpersonal element is concerned, he can't help but worry that sooner or later, he is going to do something to slip up and shatter her illusions of him as this charming, romantic, mature man-about-town, instead showing himself to her for what he really is—a misanthropic, socially-awkward old fogey who has never been in a long-term romantic/sexual relationship in his life.

of course, for as fearful as he is that once she sees the "real him," her attraction to him will evaporate, he can't (because he is still ultimately in love with her) 100% keep himself from getting close to her all the same, which is why, even once she begins working for him, he still flirts with her and shows his attraction to her and even occasionally makes her backwards declarations of love, all but in spite of himself, never mind that he ought to probably rein in that kind of behavior if he wants to keep things strictly platonic between them.

however, for as much as he does blur the lines, he does still try to split the difference by keeping their interactions relegated to the workplace.

he won't allow himself to "cross the threshold" and take her home with him—not when he supposes that if he were to do so, she would finally see everything he is trying to keep hidden from her.

even with her "just" being his subordinate and working with him every night, she is still observing more of him than he truly feels comfortable with, but at least there are some boundaries/parameters; at least most of what she's observing is located within the realm of the professional.

if he were, however, to have a relationship with her outside of work, then those last barriers would be gone, and she would have access to everything—and the idea that she would terrifies him.

his great nightmare is that if he were to choose to throw caution to the wind, break those departmental rules, and commence a romantic relationship with sara, sacrificing his career and professional reputation and familiar lifestyle in order to do so, the center would not hold.

she might stay with him for a few weeks or months or even years if he were lucky, but in his opinion, it is inevitable that someday—once she realized what she had really gotten herself into with him—she would leave him.

and then he would ultimately end up with nothing—neither the career he sacrificed for the girl nor the girl herself.

he assumes he is so unworthy of sara—too old for her, too misanthropic, too "dark inside," too inexperienced in love/sex, too insufficiently human, etc.—that there is no way she would want to remain with him forever.

she would put up with him for a while, until she got wise to just how many failing points he has, and then she would book.

and he knows he wouldn't be able to cope when she did.

losing her once he has had her would absolutely break him.

so that's the actual major reason™ why he holds back from being with her for so long—because he figures it's somehow easier never to have her than to have her only to subsequently lose her.

he's preempting what he views as the inevitable rejection by not putting himself into a position to be rejected by her in the first place.

can't reject what you don't have, right?

now.

the way i see things, grissom only gets to the point where he is ready to be with sara once he finally conquers his fear of rejection and a) realizes that sara's love for him is in fact unconditional, all of his flaws notwithstanding, and, b) comes to understand that his care for her well-being outweighs any fears or trepidations he had regarding his own.

in canon, he reaches those particular watermarks only after the gsr emotional roller coaster that is their s3/s4 arc, circa the events of episodes 05x12 "snakes"—when sara confirms to him (in so many words) that despite all of his missteps with her over the years, she does still love him and want to be with him—and 05x13 "nesting dolls"—when he is finally posed with the choice that for four and a half years he has been avoiding, namely to play things safe and prioritize his career over sara yet again or to put it all on the line her, and he at last chooses the latter option.

getting back to your original question, then: would grissom not being sara's boss cause him to get together with her any sooner?

not necessarily.

not just by itself, per se.

but let's say him not being her boss leads him into circumstances where he arrives at those emotional conclusions sooner than he does in canon.

well, then the answer to your question might be yes.

so with all of the above in mind, i've got an example of a scenario where i think grissom not being sara's boss might result in him getting together with sara sooner due to the way it would influence the events of the canon timeline.

conjecture after the "keep reading," if you're interested.

__

okay.

so this scenario is just one of multiple possible scenarios that could work to give non-supervisor grissom that emotional push he would need to pursue a relationship with sara early on.

it hinges on how grissom not being promoted to night shift supervisor in episode 01x01 "pilot" might affect the course of events in the episodes immediately subsequent.

now.

i of course understand, from a storytelling perspective, why the events of the first three episodes of csi transpire in the way that they do.

from a narrative perspective, the writers very much wanted to start the show with an earthshaking event—with the team dynamics being reshuffled and grissom (the main character) getting thrust into a leadership role he doesn't either want or feel prepared for; with everyone experiencing "growing pains" as they adjust to a new normal.

that's fertile ground for storytelling. there's lots of narrative tension in a situation like that one and many opportunities for character development to be had.

that said, there are some parts of those initial three episodes that are not particularly believable just from a "that's not what would probably happen in real life" standpoint, namely:

in real life, brass most likely would not lose his supervisory position at csi and be reassigned to homicide without there being any kind of departmental investigation into his conduct and leadership surrounding the events of the shooting (and especially not before holly gribbs had even actually died).

in real life, grissom, who had never actually expressed interest in a supervisory position, much less applied for one, most likely would not have been automatically and permanently promoted to the role of night shift supervisor following brass's demotion, and especially not without the department running any kind of official hiring search (even just nominally) beforehand.

in real life, there would have almost certainly been an internal affairs investigation into the entire debacle, with focus placed on both brass's and warrick's conducts.

in real life, it most likely would not have been grissom's sole purview to investigate warrick's conduct (or to bring in sara to do so as his proxy).

in real life, it most likely would not have been grissom's sole purview to decide, once said investigation were concluded, if warrick kept his job or not—and particularly not in light of the fact that in sara's official report on warrick's conduct, she does find him negligent.

in real life, most likely, warrick would either have lost his job or, at the very least, been served a lengthy suspension and faced with other (not insubstantial) disciplinary action.

in real life, while it is not completely impossible that grissom could fully hire sara in less than two weeks' time*, it is still somewhat of a stretch to imagine that he could; more likely, it would take him somewhat longer to complete that process (and get all of her background checks, drug testing, fingerprinting, onboarding paperwork, firearms and lab safety proficiency certifications, departmental training modules, tax forms, etc. completed).

in real life, again, while not completely impossible, it is still somewhat unrealistic that sara quits her job at the sfpd and moves across state lines to start her new job with the lvpd all within less than two weeks.

* the events of episode 01x02 "cool change" take place on approximately 10.16.00 within the universe of the show, while the events of episode 01x03 "crate n' burial" take place on approximately 10.29.00 within the universe of the show.

show canon compresses/truncates/fudges all of those processes for the sake of moving the story along and also allows grissom a lot more power to make unilateral administrative decisions regarding his team than in real life he would be likely to have, working at one of the biggest, most prestigious, most bureaucratic state crime labs in the country.

so looping back around to our au, let's imagine a scenario where things happen in a somewhat more "true to life" way than they do in actual show canon.

let's say that instead of being immediately reassigned to homicide in the wake of the gribbs shooting, brass is instead placed on administrative leave pending an investigation into his conduct and leadership.

meanwhile, grissom is made acting pro tempore shift supervisor in his stead.

internal affairs immediately launches its own investigation into the circumstances of the shooting, with focus placed both on brass's and warrick's conducts and potential culpability.

warrick is also placed on administrative leave pending investigation.

grissom, in his pro tempore role, does not have the authority to launch any kind of official investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. however, knowing warrick as he does, he already has a hunch about what might have happened. realizing that the internal affairs investigation will move "at the slow speed of government," he decides to get out ahead of it and find out for himself what happened. he therefore brings on sara as a consultant, having her examine warrick's conduct on his behalf in a more unofficial capacity.

essentially, what he wants her to find out for him is how likely it is that once everything is said and done warrick will lose his job.

as is the case in canon, grissom also reaches out to sara on a more subconscious level because she is the one thing during this otherwise very turbulent, distressing time that makes him feel at all safe, and he wants to keep her close, like a human security blanket.

sara conducts her investigation and quickly determines, as is the case in canon, that warrick abandoned holly gribbs at her crime scene in order to go place an off-site sports bet. she submits her report to grissom, giving him the heads up that if ia's findings are similar to hers, then there's a good chance warrick will not emerge from the situation professionally unscathed.

she then returns to san francisco.

but.

since she is now personally involved in the case and has seen up-close how it is affecting grissom, even once she leaves las vegas, she and grissom remain in almost constant contact, talking on the phone for hours after every shift, with him updating her on the latest developments and her emotionally supporting him through what is still a very difficult time, while he is temporarily in charge of what is now a severely understaffed and emotionally compromised forensics team.

if you think catherine and nick are taking all of these developments in stride, they are very much not™.

though his typical mo is to play things close to the chest, during this period of extreme upset, grissom almost can't help himself but to open up to sara. on their calls, he finds himself word-vomiting revealing very intimate things to her and allowing himself to be candid and vulnerable in ways that normally he might never be. he expresses his frustrations with the department's handling of the case to her—don't they realize that by suspending warrick, they've now made it so the team is technically down two criminalists instead of just one?—and his regrets concerning gribbs's demise. he starts to really rely on sara and unveil himself to her, including his doubts and trepidations regarding himself as a leader, especially in such emotionally fraught circumstances as these.

letting her "see him" in all of this emotional nakedness is terrifying to him at first, but what he is pleasantly surprised to find is not only does she not judge him for expressing what he views as his own weaknesses but she also has this uncanny ability to build him up and know just what to say to validate and encourage him. the advice she offers is patient and sound, and her perspectives are simultaneously logical and compassionate. she always seems to know just what to say and just how to help him, even from afar.

he had already felt very close to her from the first time they met, but now it's like they've unlocked this new level of intimacy.

their conversations branch out from just the gribbs situation into other areas of their lives. sara even starts to disclose things to grissom about herself that he had never known before.

not her whole life story but hints of it, more than she had let on in the past, certainly.

eventually, grissom starts to get the idea that maybe sara is just as lonely as he is, and, especially considering how much she has done for him recently, he finds he wants nothing more than to find a way to cure that loneliness for her and truly make her happy, becoming fixated on the notion.

we could maybe even throw in a "sara's having troubles in san francisco and is no longer loving her job at the sfpd" subplot to up the ante here, if we wanted.

as the days wear on, grissom longs to have sara physically near to him always.

for the first time, living 500+ miles away from her really begins to smart.

maybe at some point when grissom is at his lowest during the course of the investigation, sara hops a flight and shows up in vegas during a rare two day-off period for her, without him even asking. her anticipation of his needs and the fact that she is just there for him (at a time when he is not feeling great about himself) means more to him than he could possibly say.

they end up sleeping together (which is something they may or may not have done previously, depending on one's pre-vegas headcanons for them) and eventually one or the other of them drops the l-word and the other one immediately and wholeheartedly says it back.

it all but breaks both of their hearts when at the end of 48 hours, sara has to fly back to the bay.

finally, after several weeks of investigation, the internal affairs team clears brass of any wrongdoing surrounding the shooting, as it becomes evident that warrick essentially "went rogue" and contradicted brass's direct orders for him to supervise holly gribbs.

brass is summarily reinstated as csi night shift supervisor, at which point grissom resumes his role as csi night shift assistant supervisor.

as sara predicted, ia does ultimately find warrick negligent in his conduct surrounding the shooting.

and who knows? maybe if they took their time and did their due diligence, they might also uncover the fact that judge cohen was blackmailing him.

and honestly? if we're going for total realism here, i think warrick would almost certainly lose his job.

however, given that we like warrick and don't want him off the team, let's say that rather than being fired he instead is served with a lengthy suspension, barred from his impending promotion to csi level iii, subjected to various disciplinary actions, and required to attend 90+ gamblers anonymous meetings and some number of peap counseling sessions prior to reinstatement, at which point he will still be on probation.

so all said and done, the team is still down two junior criminalists, though they are probably only allowed to hire for one position (given that warrick is technically still employed at the lab, albeit serving a protracted suspension).

while of course they want to hire a replacement for holly gribbs as quickly as possible, they are still a government agency and can't cut corners in the process, so they open up an actual hiring search.

grissom and sara discuss the possibility of her applying for the job.

however, since they by now both fully consider themselves to be "in a romantic relationship" (and have every intention to move in together should sara indeed transfer to vegas), they're uncertain what to do regarding the department policy forbidding romantic/sexual relationships between members of the same forensics team.

maybe at this point grissom talks to catherine and/or brass about the issue and they help him to come up with a workaround much like the one ecklie suggests to grissom in canon in episode 08x02 "a la cart," where to keep the whole spouse/partner hire thing kosher, they can set up some very specific rules to prevent grissom and sara from "unduly influencing" each other while working on the same forensics team.

maybe grissom ends up stepping down even from his assistant supervisory position, ceding it to catherine (as he has never really cared about having administrative power anyway).

maybe the new protocol is that grissom and sara are not allowed to work cases together unless there is another csi level iii overseeing them and running point on the investigation.

maybe they'll be subject to random case reviews by internal affairs.

maybe they both have to meet with hr and fill out lengthy disclosure forms at the start of every fiscal year.

in any case, let's say they find a way to make it work.

so sara applies and gets the job and moves to vegas with grissom. somewhere along the way, she would still have to tell him fully about her past—which would, of course, be a whole thing™ unto itself—and there might still be a few hiccups as they learned how to blend their lives together and communicate their feelings in the interim.

that said, i think if things happened this way, it would serve much the same effect as the events of episodes 05x12 "snakes" and 05x13 "nesting dolls" do in canon, just on an accelerated timescale and without grissom being sara's boss: namely, grissom would learn that sara loved him unconditionally, and he would also start to prioritize making her happy (and find that doing so made him happy in the process). he would make any and all necessary changes to have her be part of his life.

now.

how things might go with brass and catherine being in charge of the shift and grissom and sara having an "out" romantic relationship from the get-go as early as 2000, i can't say. certainly, the whole trajectory of the show would change, but it's unclear in what specific ways that it would or what the ultimate outcomes of these major changes to the team's composition might be.

as mentioned above, of course, there are potentially other scenarios than this one that we could imagine where grissom not being sara's boss might result in them getting together as a couple sooner; still, i think, for the most part, however said scenarios were constructed otherwise, they would almost universally have to involve similar emotional beats, where grissom learned to both trust in sara's love for him and choose his love for her over his fear of potential rejection.

i also think that it would, for the most part, be less the case that grissom not being sara's boss was the thing that cleared the way for their relationship in itself and rather that him not being her boss would alter the way certain events played out from how they do in canon, such that grissom and sara ended up on a different emotional learning curve than the one they have in canon altogether.

it wouldn't be a deal where grissom would go, "yay! i'm not your boss! let's date!" (because that obstacle was never the only one holding him back from being with her anyway). instead, the real change-maker would be how events transpired differently in the au based on the fact of this major detail being altered.

anyway.

those are my thoughts!

thanks for the question! please feel welcome to send another any time.

[ariatelecomsolutions]

Predictive Dialer Software for Call Center: Boosting Efficiency and Customer Engagement

In the fast-paced world of call centers, maximizing efficiency and maintaining high customer engagement levels are essential. Predictive dialer software for call centers has become a vital tool, enabling organizations to handle large volumes of outbound calls seamlessly while optimizing agent productivity.

What is Predictive Dialer Software for Call Centers?

Predictive dialer software for call centers is an advanced system designed to automate outbound dialing. It uses intelligent algorithms to predict agent availability and call outcomes, dialing multiple numbers simultaneously and routing live calls to agents. This ensures that call center agents spend less time waiting and more time interacting with prospects or customers.

How Predictive Dialer Software Works

Automated Dialing The software dials multiple numbers at once, increasing the chances of connecting with a live person.

Call Filtering It filters out busy signals, voicemails, disconnected numbers, and unanswered calls.

Real-Time Allocation When a live connection is made, the call is routed to the next available agent.

Dynamic Adjustment The system adjusts dialing rates based on agent availability, ensuring smooth operations without overwhelming the team.

Benefits of Predictive Dialer Software for Call Centers

Adopting predictive dialer software for call centers offers numerous benefits:

Enhanced Productivity Agents can focus on meaningful conversations rather than wasting time on unanswered calls or wrong numbers.

Improved Call Efficiency With simultaneous dialing and intelligent routing, call centers can handle a higher volume of calls in less time.

Increased Revenue By maximizing agent talk time, businesses can boost sales, close deals faster, and improve customer retention.

Real-Time Monitoring Supervisors can monitor performance metrics such as call duration, agent availability, and campaign success in real time.

Compliance Assurance Modern predictive dialers incorporate tools to adhere to regulations like Do Not Call (DNC) lists and call monitoring laws.

Features of Predictive Dialer Software for Call Centers

When selecting predictive dialer software for call centers, look for these essential features:

Automatic Call Distribution (ACD): Efficiently routes live calls to available agents.

CRM Integration: Synchronizes with customer relationship management tools to provide detailed customer profiles.

Call Recording and Monitoring: Enables quality assurance and agent training.

Omnichannel Support: Allows seamless communication across phone, email, and chat.

Customizable Campaigns: Offers flexibility to design and manage call campaigns tailored to specific objectives.

Analytics and Reporting: Delivers insights into key performance indicators (KPIs) such as call volume, conversion rates, and agent productivity.

Applications of Predictive Dialer Software for Call Centers

Sales and Telemarketing Automates outbound calls to maximize sales opportunities and increase lead conversion rates.

Customer Support Proactively reaches out to customers for follow-ups, feedback, or issue resolution.

Debt Collection Simplifies payment reminders and recovery processes with automated dialing and tracking.

Surveys and Market Research Conducts customer satisfaction surveys or market research efficiently.

Appointment Setting Helps schedule and confirm appointments, reducing manual effort for agents.

Leading Providers of Predictive Dialer Software for Call Centers

Aria Telecom Known for its robust and customizable solutions, Aria Telecom offers reliable predictive dialer software for call centers, ensuring seamless integration and superior performance.

Five9 A cloud-based solution offering advanced predictive dialing features with scalability for large teams.

RingCentral Provides user-friendly software with omnichannel support and extensive analytics tools.

Genesys Renowned for its AI-driven features, Genesys enables intelligent call routing and campaign management.

CallHippo Delivers affordable and scalable solutions ideal for small and medium-sized call centers.

Tips for Choosing the Best Predictive Dialer Software

Scalability: Ensure the software can adapt to your growing business needs.

Ease of Use: Look for intuitive interfaces that reduce training time for agents.

Regulatory Compliance: Verify that the system includes features for managing DNC lists and adhering to call recording laws.

Integration Capabilities: Opt for software that integrates seamlessly with existing CRM and telephony systems.

Customer Support: Choose a provider that offers reliable customer service and technical support.

[davidwanne]

CRM Solutions for Scaling Businesses to Build Long-Term Loyalty

In the modern business world, scaling a company requires more than just operational efficiency; it demands cultivating strong customer relationships and fostering long-term loyalty. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) solutions have emerged as indispensable tools for businesses looking to grow while maintaining meaningful connections with their customers. These systems streamline communication, enhance customer experiences, and provide actionable insights, making them pivotal in scaling operations effectively.

Understanding CRM and Its Role in Business Growth

CRM solutions are platforms designed to manage a company's interactions with current and potential customers. They consolidate customer data, automate tasks, and provide insights that drive strategic decision-making. For scaling businesses, CRM systems serve as the backbone for building customer-centric strategies, ensuring personalized experiences even as the customer base grows.

Key Benefits of CRM Solutions for Scaling Businesses

1. Centralized Data Management

As businesses scale, the volume of customer data increases exponentially. A CRM system centralizes this information, creating a single source of truth. This ensures that all teams—marketing, sales, and customer support—have access to accurate and up-to-date customer profiles.

2. Enhanced Customer Engagement

CRM tools enable businesses to engage with customers proactively and personally. Automated workflows can send personalized emails, reminders, or special offers, creating a sense of individual attention.

3. Improved Sales Efficiency

Scaling businesses often struggle with managing growing sales pipelines. CRM systems simplify this process by automating lead scoring, tracking sales progress, and providing actionable insights. Sales teams can focus on high-priority leads and close deals faster.

4. Superior Customer Support

Providing consistent and high-quality customer support is challenging during rapid growth. CRM systems integrate with helpdesk solutions to ensure that customer queries are resolved efficiently. Agents can access complete customer histories, enabling faster and more accurate problem-solving.

5. Actionable Analytics for Strategic Decisions

CRM platforms offer robust analytics tools that help businesses track customer behavior, measure campaign success, and identify trends. This data-driven approach enables companies to refine their strategies and allocate resources effectively.

Building Long-Term Loyalty with CRM Solutions

1. Personalization at Scale

CRM systems allow businesses to deliver personalized experiences to a large customer base. By leveraging customer data, companies can craft tailored communications, offers, and solutions that resonate with individual preferences.

Impact: Customers feel valued and understood, fostering trust and loyalty.

2. Loyalty Programs and Rewards Management

Many CRM systems support the creation and management of loyalty programs. Businesses can track customer activity, assign points, and offer rewards seamlessly, encouraging repeat business.

Impact: Customers are incentivized to remain engaged with the brand, boosting retention rates.

3. Proactive Customer Service

Anticipating customer needs and addressing them proactively is a hallmark of excellent service. CRM systems help identify pain points and opportunities for improvement through feedback analysis and monitoring customer journeys.

Impact: Proactive service creates positive experiences that strengthen customer relationships.

4. Consistent Communication Across Channels

Modern customers interact with businesses across various channels, including social media, email, and live chat. CRM platforms unify these channels, ensuring consistent messaging and seamless transitions between touchpoints.

Impact: Customers experience cohesive interactions, enhancing their perception of the brand.

5. Strengthened Feedback Loops

CRM systems facilitate collecting and analyzing customer feedback. This information helps businesses improve products, services, and overall customer experience, ensuring they stay aligned with customer expectations.

Impact: Continuous improvement drives satisfaction and loyalty.

Selecting the Right CRM Solution for Scaling Businesses

Choosing the right CRM platform is critical for ensuring successful scaling and long-term loyalty. Here are key factors to consider:

Scalability: Ensure the CRM solution can grow with your business, accommodating more users and data as needed.

Ease of Use: A user-friendly interface is essential for quick adoption by your team.

Integration Capabilities: The CRM should integrate seamlessly with existing tools like email marketing software, e-commerce platforms, and helpdesk systems.

Customization: Look for a solution that allows for tailored workflows and reporting to meet specific business needs.

Security: Protecting sensitive customer data is crucial; ensure the CRM system offers robust security measures.

Top CRM Solutions for Scaling Businesses

Salesforce: Renowned for its comprehensive features and scalability, Salesforce offers tools for sales, marketing, and customer service.

HubSpot CRM: Known for its user-friendly interface and free plan, HubSpot CRM is ideal for small to medium-sized businesses.

Zoho CRM: Offers affordable pricing and extensive customization options, making it a popular choice for growing companies.

Microsoft Dynamics 365: Integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft products and offers powerful analytics tools.

Pipedrive: Focused on sales pipeline management, Pipedrive is a great choice for businesses prioritizing sales efficiency.

Conclusion

Scaling a business comes with its share of challenges, particularly in maintaining strong customer relationships and ensuring consistent engagement. CRM solutions provide the tools and insights necessary to overcome these challenges, enabling businesses to build long-term loyalty. From personalized customer experiences to efficient sales processes and actionable analytics, CRM systems empower businesses to thrive in a competitive landscape.

By investing in the right CRM solution, businesses can create a robust framework for sustained growth, ensuring that every customer interaction adds value and strengthens the brand.

[concentrix]

The Customer Support Jobs of Tomorrow: Trends You Need to Know

Customer support is evolving rapidly. Emerging technologies and customer expectations are reshaping the landscape. Staying updated on trends is critical for success.

AI-Powered Assistance

Artificial intelligence is transforming customer service. AI tools streamline tasks, analyze data, and deliver faster solutions. Chatbots and virtual assistants provide 24/7 support.

Personalization at Scale

AI-driven insights enable tailored interactions. Personalized responses build trust and improve satisfaction. Companies leveraging AI gain a competitive edge.

Omnichannel Support Integration

Customers demand seamless experiences across platforms. Businesses must integrate communication channels like chat, email, and social media.

Unified Customer Experiences

Omnichannel strategies ensure consistent interactions. Customers can switch between channels effortlessly. This approach enhances satisfaction and loyalty.

Remote Work Revolution

Remote support teams are now a norm. Advanced tools ensure efficient collaboration, even from different locations.

Flexible Work Models

Flexible schedules attract top talent. Companies adopting remote models see increased productivity and happier employees.

Upskilling for Tomorrow's Challenges

The demand for specialized skills is growing. Customer support agents must adapt to technological advancements.

Focus on Emotional Intelligence

Empathy and communication are irreplaceable. Training programs should emphasize these soft skills alongside technical expertise.

Self-Service Solutions

Modern customers prefer self-service options. Knowledge bases and FAQ sections empower users to solve issues independently.

Interactive Knowledge Management

Dynamic FAQs and video tutorials are popular. They reduce query volumes while enhancing user experience.

Data-Driven Decision Making

Data is a powerful tool for understanding customer behavior. Analytics drive improvements and predict future needs.

Customer Insights for Better Service

Tracking metrics like response time and resolution rates helps refine strategies. Data-backed decisions lead to superior service.

Sustainability in Customer Support

Sustainable practices resonate with eco-conscious customers. Businesses incorporating green initiatives stand out.

Green Technology Adoption

Eco-friendly tools and practices reduce carbon footprints. These efforts align with consumer values and enhance brand reputation.

Conclusion: Embrace Change for Success

The future of customer support is dynamic. By embracing trends like AI, omnichannel strategies, and sustainability, businesses can thrive. Adapting to change ensures lasting success in a competitive landscape.

[hostanytimessx]

Everything About Dedicated WordPress Hosting

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Let’s dive into what makes dedicated server WordPress hosting a smart investment, explore Hostanytime's offerings, and see why it's the perfect choice for your WordPress website.

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Who Should Opt for Dedicated WordPress Hosting?

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Closed Cell Insulation Removal Service: Everything You Need to Know Closed cell insulation is a popular choice for its superior energy efficiency, moisture resistance, and durability. However, there are times when it needs to be removed—whether due to improper installation, building renovations, or insulation upgrades. In this blog, we’ll dive into the importance of closed cell insulation removal services and how professionals handle the task efficiently.

What Is Closed Cell Insulation? Closed cell insulation, typically spray foam, consists of tightly packed cells that create a dense, rigid structure. Its benefits include:

High R-value: Exceptional thermal insulation. Moisture Barrier: Prevents water intrusion and mold growth. Structural Support: Adds strength to walls and ceilings. However, removal can be challenging due to its durability, making professional services essential.

Why Remove Closed Cell Insulation? Renovations and Upgrades

When remodeling or upgrading insulation, old foam needs to be removed to accommodate new materials. Improper Installation

Spray foam improperly applied can lead to uneven surfaces, air gaps, or trapped moisture, requiring removal. Aging or Damage

Over time, insulation may degrade or become less effective, especially if exposed to extreme conditions. Environmental Concerns

Closed cell foam often contains chemicals that must be disposed of responsibly. How Professionals Remove Closed Cell Insulation Removing closed cell insulation is a precise and careful process that requires specialized equipment and expertise. Here’s how professionals handle it:

Assessment

A thorough inspection to determine the extent of the insulation and the best removal method. Preparation

Isolating the area to minimize disruption and ensure safety. Foam Removal

Using tools like scrapers, saws, or heated equipment to carefully extract the foam without damaging the underlying structure. Surface Cleanup

Ensuring all debris is removed, leaving the surface clean and ready for new insulation or renovation. Eco-Friendly Disposal

Proper disposal of foam materials to comply with environmental regulations. Why Hire Professionals for Closed Cell Insulation Removal? Safety First: Professionals are trained to handle chemicals and sharp tools safely. Time Efficiency: Removal is faster and more precise with the right expertise. Prevent Damage: Avoid costly repairs caused by improper DIY removal methods. Eco-Conscious Practices: Professionals ensure environmentally friendly disposal of removed materials. Signs You Need Insulation Removal Services Persistent drafts despite insulation. Visible damage to spray foam. Renovation or remodeling projects. Mold or moisture issues around the insulation. Benefits of Professional Closed Cell Insulation Removal Services Thorough and Precise Work Professionals remove all traces of old foam, ensuring no residue is left behind.

Surface Preparation The surface is left clean and ready for re-insulation or other applications.

Cost-Effective Solutions Avoid unexpected repair costs by doing it right the first time.

Custom Services Every project is unique, and professionals tailor their methods to fit your needs.

Get Expert Closed Cell Insulation Removal Services Today! Don’t let old or damaged closed cell insulation hold you back. Our professional insulation removal services ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Contact us today to discuss your project and get a customized solution!

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How a Digital Marketing Company Can Help You Beat Competitors Online

In today’s hyper-competitive digital landscape, staying ahead of your competitors isn’t just about offering superior products or services—it’s about effectively reaching and engaging your audience online. This is where partnering with a digital marketing company can transform your business. By leveraging their expertise, tools, and strategies, a digital marketing company can help you outpace your competitors and dominate your industry’s digital space. Here's how.

Digital Marketing Company in Coimbatore

1. Comprehensive Competitor Analysis

One of the first steps to outshining your competitors is understanding what they’re doing right—and wrong. Digital marketing companies use advanced tools and analytics to perform detailed competitor analyses. This involves examining:

Their online presence (website, social media, ads).

SEO strategies, including keywords they rank for.

Engagement tactics and audience interactions.

Armed with this information, they can craft a strategy that builds on your competitors’ strengths while exploiting their weaknesses.

2. Building a Robust SEO Strategy

Search engine optimization (SEO) serves as the foundation for achieving online success. Ranking higher on search engines not only boosts your visibility but also establishes trust with your audience. A digital marketing company helps you achieve this by:

Researching and targeting high-performing keywords.

Optimizing your website for technical SEO, including page speed and mobile-friendliness.

Building quality backlinks to improve domain authority.

Creating content that resonates with both search engines and users.

These efforts ensure that your website consistently outranks competitors in search engine results.

3. Creating Engaging and Unique Content

Content is king in the digital world, but not all content is created equal. To stand out, you need unique, high-quality, and engaging material that adds value to your audience. Digital marketing companies excel at:

Crafting blog posts, articles, and videos tailored to your niche.

Developing content that answers your audience’s questions.

Leveraging storytelling to connect emotionally with your customers.

By positioning you as an authority in your field, they help you capture and retain your audience’s attention, leaving competitors struggling to keep up.

Digital Marketing Company in Coimbatore

4. Leveraging Social Media Marketing

Social media platforms are critical battlegrounds for winning over your audience. A digital marketing company ensures your social media presence is not only active but impactful. They achieve this by:

Running targeted ad campaigns that reach your ideal customers.

Developing a consistent posting schedule with engaging content.

Monitoring analytics to optimize performance.

Responding to customer interactions to build relationships.

Through these efforts, they help you build a loyal online community, giving you a significant edge over competitors.

5. Harnessing Paid Advertising

Organic growth is essential, but paid advertising can accelerate your success. Digital marketing companies specialize in running cost-effective ad campaigns on platforms like Google Ads, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. They help you:

Target the right demographics and interests.

Optimize ad copy and visuals for higher click-through rates.

Monitor campaign performance and adjust strategies in real-time.

By maximizing your ROI, these campaigns put your business in front of the right people faster than your competitors can manage.

6. Personalizing the Customer Experience

Modern consumers expect personalized experiences tailored to their preferences. Digital marketing companies use tools like email marketing, retargeting ads, and CRM platforms to deliver:

Tailored recommendations based on user behaviour.

Follow-ups that nurture leads into customers.

Exclusive offers that make your audience feel valued.

This level of personalization sets you apart from competitors who rely on generic, one-size-fits-all strategies.

7. Measuring and Adapting Strategies

The digital landscape is constantly changing, and strategies that succeed today may become outdated by tomorrow. Digital marketing companies continuously track campaign performance using analytics tools. This allows them to:

Identify what’s working and what’s not.

Adjust strategies to improve outcomes.

Stay ahead of emerging trends and technologies.

This adaptability ensures that you’re always a step ahead of your competitors, no matter how the digital landscape changes.

Digital Marketing Agency in Coimbatore

Conclusion

Beating competitors online requires more than just ambition—it demands a well-thought-out, data-driven strategy executed with precision. A digital marketing company brings the expertise, resources, and tools needed to elevate your brand, attract your target audience, and outperform your competition.Partnering with a digital marketing company isn’t just an investment in marketing; it’s an investment in staying relevant, competitive, and successful in today’s digital-first world. Ready to leave your competitors in the dust? Let a professional digital marketing company take the reins and lead you to victory.

[jcmarchi]

10 Best AI SDR Tools (October 2024)

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/10-best-ai-sdr-tools-october-2024/

10 Best AI SDR Tools (October 2024)

The landscape of sales development is undergoing a transformation, powered by artificial intelligence that’s redefining how businesses connect with potential customers. AI SDRs (Sales Development Representatives) have emerged as sophisticated systems that automate and enhance the traditional role of human SDRs, handling everything from initial prospecting and lead qualification to scheduling appointments and managing follow-ups.

As businesses increasingly recognize the value of these AI-powered tools in scaling personalized outreach and maintaining consistent engagement across multiple channels, the market has responded with innovative solutions that combine advanced machine learning with practical sales automation. In this guide, we’ll explore the best AI SDR tools available, examining how they’re helping organizations streamline their sales processes while maintaining the personal touch that’s crucial for successful customer relationships.

Laxis stands at the forefront of AI-powered sales development, revolutionizing how businesses approach lead generation and qualification. At its core, the platform leverages a vast global database of over 700 million contacts, ensuring that sales teams have access to an unprecedented pool of potential prospects. What sets Laxis apart is its sophisticated approach to automating the entire sales development process, from initial contact identification to personalized outreach execution.

The platform’s standout feature is its hyper-personalization capability, which goes beyond basic automation to craft individually tailored communications for each prospect. By analyzing prospect data and behavior patterns, Laxis creates engaging outreach campaigns that resonate with potential customers. The platform also includes an innovative AI Cold Calling feature that maintains natural, human-like interactions while scaling voice outreach efforts.

Key Features:

Automated lead generation and qualification through AI-powered prospect analysis

Hyper-personalized email creation using advanced natural language processing

AI Cold Calling with human-like interactions for scaled voice outreach

Real-time analytics and optimization for campaign performance

Seamless CRM integration for streamlined workflow management

Visit Laxis →

Alisha by Floworks represents a significant leap forward in AI SDR technology, powered by its proprietary ThorV2 engine. This innovative platform has demonstrated remarkable capabilities, outperforming traditional Large Language Models (LLMs) like GPT-4 and Claude-3 with an impressive 90.1% accuracy rate and 27.5% faster latency, all while maintaining superior cost-effectiveness.

The platform’s efficiency stems from its sophisticated research capabilities, which scan across 180 web sources to create deeply personalized outreach campaigns. This comprehensive approach to data gathering and analysis enables Alisha to craft messages that truly resonate with prospects, leading to higher engagement rates and more successful conversions.

Key Features:

Multichannel outreach capabilities spanning email, LinkedIn, and hybrid approaches

In-depth research across 180 web sources for enhanced personalization

Full end-to-end automation of the sales development process

Dynamic self-training capability for continuous improvement

Intelligent response system for real-time prospect engagement

Visit Alisha bt Floworks →

AiSDR delivers a comprehensive solution for businesses looking to streamline their entire sales outreach process through advanced automation and personalization. This versatile platform stands out for its ability to manage both outbound and inbound marketing strategies effectively, providing a unified approach to sales development that adapts to various business needs.

The platform’s strength lies in its intelligent lead engagement system, which uses insights from previous interactions to address common objections and guide prospects toward booking calls with sales representatives. This adaptive approach, combined with automated lead scoring and qualification, ensures that sales teams can focus their energy on conducting meetings with the most promising prospects.

Key Features:

AI-generated personalized email campaigns with dynamic content adaptation

Multi-channel outreach support for comprehensive prospect engagement

Intelligent lead engagement and scoring for optimal prioritization

Automated content generation based on proven sales frameworks

Advanced booking optimization with integrated scheduling capabilities

Visit AiSDR →

Gong has established itself as a leading Revenue Intelligence platform and AI SDR, leveraging advanced AI technology specifically designed for revenue teams. The platform’s sophisticated approach to sales intelligence is built on over 40 proprietary AI models, trained on billions of high-quality sales interactions. This deep learning foundation enables Gong to provide unparalleled analysis of customer interactions across various channels.

What truly distinguishes Gong is its comprehensive approach to generative AI applications in sales. The platform goes beyond simple conversation analysis, automatically generating critical insights from customer interactions, including pain points, outcomes, and actionable next steps. This allows sales teams to quickly implement strategic changes based on data-driven observations rather than just reviewing call recordings.

Key Features:

40+ specialized AI models built on billions of sales interactions

Generative AI insights for automated analysis and recommendations

Custom Active Learning Models for trend identification

Multilingual capabilities for global team coordination

Enterprise-grade security with robust data protection

Visit Gong →

Ava by Artisan represents the next evolution in AI SDR tools, functioning as a sophisticated digital worker capable of managing complex sales development tasks autonomously. With access to over 300 million B2B contacts, Ava transforms how businesses approach prospecting and lead engagement, offering a level of automation that significantly reduces manual workload while maintaining personalized interactions.

The platform’s true strength lies in its ability to operate in full autopilot mode while maintaining high-quality personalization. Ava conducts individual research on each prospect before crafting targeted outreach messages, ensuring that every interaction is relevant and engaging. This combination of automation and personalization allows sales teams to scale their efforts without sacrificing the quality of their outreach.

Key Features:

Automated prospecting with enriched demographic data

Hyper-personalized outreach based on individual prospect research

Multi-channel approach across email and LinkedIn

Built-in email warmup for optimal deliverability

Automated follow-ups with intelligent timing optimization

Visit Ava by Artisan →

Humantic offers an innovative approach to AI-powered sales development by focusing on the psychological aspects of buyer-seller relationships. The platform stands out for its innovative Personality AI Assistant, which combines advanced disciplines including psycholinguistics, computational psychometrics, I/O psychology, and neuroscience with cutting-edge machine learning to provide unprecedented insights into prospect behavior and preferences.

What truly sets Humantic apart is its ability to analyze a prospect’s digital footprint and generate detailed DISC personality profiles, enabling SDRs to tailor their approach before the first interaction. The platform’s “1-click personalization” feature transforms this psychological insight into actionable communication strategies, allowing sales teams to craft highly personalized outreach that resonates with each prospect’s unique personality type and decision-making style.

Key Features:

Advanced Personality AI Assistant powered by multiple scientific disciplines

DISC profile generation from digital footprint analysis

1-click personalization for tailored communications

Chrome extension for real-time prospect insights

Seamless integration with major CRM and sales platforms

Visit Humantic →

Cognism distinguishes itself in the AI SDR landscape through its unwavering focus on data quality and compliance across global markets. The platform’s Diamond Verified Phone Data® technology sets a new standard for contact accuracy, while its commitment to GDPR and CCPA compliance ensures that sales teams can operate confidently in various regulatory environments.

The platform’s innovative approach to AI-powered search, utilizing ChatGPT-style textual and voice prompts, simplifies the prospecting process while maintaining precision. Cognism enables sales teams to identify and prioritize warm leads who are actively searching for solutions, significantly improving conversion rates.

Key Features:

Diamond Verified Phone Data® for enhanced contact accuracy

AI-powered search with intuitive ChatGPT-style prompts

Intent data powered by Bombora for lead prioritization

Automated data enrichment for comprehensive prospect profiles

Sales trigger event tracking for timely outreach

Visit Cognism →

Outreach has established itself as a powerhouse in the sales engagement space by combining sophisticated AI capabilities with comprehensive workflow automation. The platform’s approach to sales execution goes beyond basic automation, leveraging artificial intelligence to analyze buyer sentiment and intent in email replies, automatically classifying responses and guiding sales teams toward the most effective next steps.

What sets Outreach apart is its multichannel sequencing capability, allowing sales teams to create and execute coordinated campaigns across email, phone, SMS, and social media. This integrated approach, powered by AI-driven analytics and insights, enables organizations to maintain consistent messaging while adapting their outreach strategy based on real-time engagement data and prospect behavior.

Key Features:

Multichannel sequences with AI-optimized coordination

AI-powered sentiment analysis for response classification

Advanced email capabilities with stakeholder management

Integrated call and meeting scheduling system

Automated data sync with major CRM platforms

Visit Outreach →

11x.ai is pioneering the future of sales development with Alice, an autonomous AI-powered SDR. This platform represents a paradigm shift in how businesses approach outbound sales, leveraging massive datasets and advanced AI to create a digital worker capable of replacing traditional, disjointed sales tools with streamlined, automated workflows. Having processed trillions of bytes of data and analyzed over 500 million leads, Alice brings scale and precision to sales development operations.

Key Features:

Autonomous lead sourcing and qualification from vast data sources

Multi-channel prospect engagement with personalized messaging

AI-powered meeting scheduling and follow-up automation

Comprehensive workflow automation and integration capabilities

Visit 11x.ai →

LeadSend stands out in the AI SDR landscape as a purpose-built solution focused on automating the most time-consuming aspects of lead generation and qualification. The platform’s distinctive approach leverages advanced AI algorithms to automate up to 90% of manual lead generation tasks, representing a significant leap forward in sales development efficiency. This high level of automation enables sales teams to redirect their energy from routine prospecting to high-value interactions that directly impact revenue.

The platform’s sophisticated AI engine excels at identifying and qualifying leads that precisely match a company’s ideal customer profile, ensuring that outreach efforts are consistently targeted at the most promising prospects. LeadSend’s intelligent system goes beyond basic automation by optimizing every aspect of the outreach process, from crafting personalized messages to determining the optimal timing for email sends, while continuously learning and adapting based on response patterns and engagement data.

Key Features:

AI-powered lead research and qualification system

Automated personalized email outreach optimization

Intelligent send-time optimization

Response analysis and automatic lead qualification

Continuous learning and strategy refinement capabilities

Visit LeadSend →

Why Use an AI SDR?

The transformation of the sales landscape through AI-powered SDR tools represents a pivotal shift in how sales teams approach their outreach efforts and lead generation strategies. With 81% of sales teams either experimenting with or having fully implemented AI, it’s clear that artificial intelligence has moved from a competitive advantage to a necessary foundation for modern sales development. These sophisticated platforms are revolutionizing the sales process by automating repetitive tasks while maintaining the personal touch crucial for building customer relationships. By leveraging artificial intelligence, sales development representatives can now focus on high-value activities that directly impact revenue, while AI handles everything from data entry and lead qualification to personalized outreach and automated follow-ups.

The impact of AI SDR tools on sales performance is significant and measurable. Sales teams implementing these solutions report generating more qualified leads, shortened sales cycles, and improved closing rates. Through automated sales workflows and intelligent lead scoring, sales professionals can make data-driven decisions based on real-time insights and accurate sales forecasts. This enhanced efficiency allows sales reps to prioritize leads effectively, customize their outreach strategy across multiple channels, and focus on building meaningful customer relationships rather than getting bogged down in manual tasks.

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Predictive Dialer Software: Transforming Outbound Call Efficiency

In the competitive world of sales and customer service, efficiency is key to success. Predictive dialer software has emerged as a game-changing tool, enabling businesses to maximize agent productivity and optimize outbound call campaigns. By automating dialing and intelligently connecting agents only to answered calls, this software minimizes downtime and boosts results.

What is Predictive Dialer Software?

Predictive dialer software is an advanced telephony tool designed to automate outbound calling for call centers, sales teams, and customer support operations. Using algorithms, it predicts agent availability and call outcomes, dialing multiple numbers simultaneously and routing live calls to available agents.

Unlike manual or basic auto-dialers, predictive dialer software focuses on efficiency by reducing idle time and ensuring agents spend more time talking to prospects or customers.

How Predictive Dialer Software Works

Algorithmic Predictions The software uses historical data and real-time inputs to predict when an agent will become available.

Simultaneous Dialing It dials multiple numbers at once, increasing the chances of connecting to a live person.

Call Filtering Automatically filters out busy signals, voicemails, and disconnected numbers to route only live calls to agents.

Real-Time Monitoring Tracks call outcomes, agent activity, and campaign performance for optimization.

Benefits of Predictive Dialer Software

Adopting predictive dialer software offers several advantages for businesses:

Increased Agent Productivity By automating dialing and minimizing idle time, agents can focus on meaningful conversations, increasing productivity.

Improved Call Connect Rates Dialing multiple numbers simultaneously ensures higher chances of connecting with live prospects.

Enhanced Campaign Efficiency Predictive algorithms help maximize call volume and streamline campaign execution.

Cost Savings Reduces wasted time and resources by filtering out unproductive calls.

Better Compliance Modern predictive dialers include features to ensure adherence to regulations like Do Not Call (DNC) lists and call recording laws.

Key Features of Predictive Dialer Software

When selecting predictive dialer software, look for these essential features:

Intelligent Call Routing: Ensures live calls are directed to the most appropriate agent.

CRM Integration: Syncs with customer relationship management systems to provide a 360-degree view of customer interactions.

Call Recording: Captures calls for quality assurance and training purposes.

Real-Time Analytics: Provides insights into call volume, agent performance, and campaign success rates.

Regulatory Compliance Tools: Includes features to manage DNC lists and follow telecommunication laws.

Omnichannel Capabilities: Supports integration with email, SMS, and chat for seamless customer communication.

Applications of Predictive Dialer Software

Sales and Telemarketing Automates outbound sales calls, helping sales teams close deals faster.

Debt Collection Streamlines follow-up calls for payment collection with automated dialing and tracking.

Customer Support Enhances proactive customer engagement by reaching out to resolve issues or provide updates.

Event and Appointment Reminders Automates calls to remind customers about events, appointments, or service renewals.

Survey and Feedback Collection Makes outbound calls to gather customer feedback or conduct surveys efficiently.

Top Providers of Predictive Dialer Software

Aria Telecom Aria Telecom offers advanced predictive dialer software tailored for diverse industries, ensuring efficient campaign management and superior results.

Five9 A cloud-based solution providing robust predictive dialing features with CRM integration.

Genesys Cloud Renowned for its intelligent call routing and advanced analytics capabilities.

CallHippo Offers user-friendly predictive dialing tools designed for small and medium businesses.

RingCentral A leading provider of communication solutions, including feature-rich predictive dialer software.

Advantages of Predictive Dialer Software for Businesses

Boosts Revenue: Increases call efficiency, leading to higher sales or customer retention.

Scalable: Adapts to businesses of all sizes, from small teams to large enterprises.

Improves Agent Morale: Reduces repetitive tasks, allowing agents to focus on valuable interactions.

Ensures Compliance: Helps businesses stay within the bounds of telecommunication laws.

Customizable Campaigns: Enables businesses to tailor call campaigns to meet specific goals.

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Precision Molds for Overmolding, Mops, and Brooms – Clean Up Your Production Process!

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Ready to streamline your production line? Contact us today for a free consultation and discover how our molds can help you produce top-quality cleaning products efficiently!

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[islandwizards]

Tired of Low Sales? Let Island Wizards Enhance Your Shopify Experience!

In today’s fast-paced e-commerce landscape, it’s not enough to simply be online — you need a store that is innovative, engaging, and tailored to your unique brand. Shopify is an excellent platform for getting your business up and running, but to truly stand out and scale, your store needs to go beyond basic templates and functionalities. This is where custom Shopify solutions can transform your store into a dynamic, high-performing platform that offers an exceptional shopping experience.

At Island Wizards, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Every business is unique, and we specialize in creating custom Shopify solutions that align with your specific goals and challenges. Whether you need custom features, third-party integrations, or a completely bespoke store design, we work with you to ensure your Shopify store is a true reflection of your brand while providing the flexibility to grow.

Let’s explore how Island Wizards Company can help you unlock the full potential of Shopify with tailored solutions designed to meet your e-commerce needs. Why Custom Shopify Solutions Are Essential

While Shopify offers a lot of powerful features right out of the box, it often needs customization to meet the demands of modern e-commerce businesses. Whether you’re a small boutique or a global brand, the ability to personalize and enhance your online store ensures a superior customer experience and supports growth. Here are a few compelling reasons why custom Shopify solutions are vital for businesses looking to excel:

1. Personalized Shopping Experiences for Your Customers

In a highly competitive market, delivering a unique and memorable shopping experience can be the key to winning customers over. With a custom Shopify store, you can offer a more personalized experience tailored to your target audience. This includes:

Customized product recommendations based on user behavior.

Unique navigation paths that guide different types of users to what they’re looking for faster.

Localized content to cater to different regions or languages.

By integrating custom elements into your Shopify store, you can differentiate your brand, offer more value to your customers, and create a seamless experience that drives loyalty.

2. Optimized Checkout Process

Cart abandonment is a major challenge for e-commerce stores, often caused by a cumbersome or lengthy checkout process. With custom Shopify development, you can streamline your checkout experience, making it as simple and frictionless as possible. Features such as:

One-click checkout options,

Integrated payment gateways for global transactions,

And customized shipping options tailored to your delivery regions

… can ensure that your customers complete their purchases without hassle. A simplified checkout process, coupled with customized features, improves conversion rates and ensures more customers make it through to the finish line.

3. Automation for Operational Efficiency

E-commerce can be labor-intensive, but with the right tools, you can automate many aspects of your operations. Custom Shopify solutions allow you to:

Automate inventory management by syncing with your warehouses or suppliers.

Streamline order fulfillment with automated integrations into third-party logistics providers.

Automate marketing campaigns using data-driven triggers like abandoned cart emails, post-purchase follow-ups, or upsell offers.

These operational enhancements reduce manual work, saving your team time and improving overall efficiency — ultimately leading to faster growth.

4. Flexible Product Options & Customization

Some businesses require complex product configurations or multiple product variations, such as custom t-shirt printing, jewelry engraving, or subscription-based services. Standard Shopify templates may not provide the flexibility needed to manage these scenarios effectively. Custom development allows you to:

Enable product builders where customers can personalize their items.

Offer tiered pricing or special discounts based on bulk orders.

Set up dynamic product pages that display custom options based on user preferences.

With this level of customization, your store can cater to niche markets or high-demand product categories, boosting customer satisfaction and increasing sales.

5. Enhanced Analytics & Reporting

Data is the backbone of any successful e-commerce business. However, not every store needs the same set of analytics. With a custom Shopify solution, you can create tailored reporting dashboards that focus on the metrics most important to your business. Track everything from customer demographics, product performance, or campaign effectiveness to specific KPIs that help you make smarter business decisions. Our custom reporting features help you harness the full power of your data, providing insights that can fuel growth.

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[iamjackmorris]

Unified Communication Systems: A Key to Superior Customer Experience

Businesses are constantly looking for methods to improve their relationships with customers in today’s fast changing digital landscape. One effective option is the Unified Communication System (UCS). This system combines multiple communication methods into a single platform, making it easier for businesses to improve customer experience optimization.

What Are Unified Communication Systems?

Unified Communication Systems combine several communication techniques — voice calls, video conferences, texting, and teamwork tools — into one coherent platform. Businesses can easily handle all forms of communication, including emails, instant messages, and phone calls, thanks to this connectivity. Through the removal of obstacles between various channels, companies may enhance collaboration and offer a more cohesive consumer experience.

How UCS Enhances Customer Experience

1. Faster Response Times

The primary benefit of UCS is the ability to improve response times. When support representatives have access to all communication tools in one location, they can get information quickly and answer to requests promptly. This speedy turnaround not only increases customer satisfaction but also builds trust and loyalty. Customers appreciate fast responses, and UCS enables organizations to offer them successfully.

2. Smoother Communication Flow

Unified Communication Platforms provide more efficient communication inside teams and with consumers. For example, if a customer has a problem that requires assistance from many departments, staff can simply cooperate using instant messaging or video calls rather than moving between programs. This streamlined method shortens the time it takes to handle issues and guarantees that clients get correct information immediately.

3. Better Team Collaboration

Collaboration is essential for improving consumer experiences. A UCS enables different departments — such as sales, support, and marketing — to collaborate more efficiently. If a consumer raises a specific concern that requires involvement from different teams, they can interact via the unified platform to handle the problem cooperatively. This collaboration results in better informed responses and improved service quality.

4. Personalized Interactions

Personalization is critical for improving customer experience. Many Unified Communication Systems incorporate analytics capabilities that reveal customer behaviors and preferences. Businesses can use this data to tailor their interactions to specific customers’ demands and previous experiences. A personalized approach makes consumers feel valued, which enhances the possibility of repeat business.

The Technological Edge of Unified Communication

As technology develops, so do unified communication platforms. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are gradually being integrated into these platforms to further enhance customer interactions. AI-enabled chatbots, for instance, may efficiently manage frequently asked queries, freeing up human agents to concentrate on trickier problems that require a more customized solution.

Additionally, businesses may grow without incurring large infrastructure costs thanks to cloud-based UCS solutions. For medium-sized companies (SMEs) looking to enhance customer experiences without making significant capital expenditures, this flexibility is extremely helpful.

Conclusion

In conclusion, in today’s competitive industry, unified communication systems are essential for companies trying to enhance client experiences. Businesses that integrate many communication channels into a single platform may increase response times, streamline communication, promote cooperation, and customize consumer experiences. As technology advances, UCS’s ability to revolutionize consumer experiences will only increase.

Investing in a robust Unified Communication System positions your business as a leader in improving the customer experience, going beyond just following trends. Businesses who employ this technology now will be able to satisfy the ever-evolving needs of their customers and foster enduring loyalty and satisfaction.

Acknowledging the significance of Unified Communication Systems and its role in enhancing customer experiences empowers firms to take proactive measures in creating exceptional interactions that connect with their target market and foster sustained success.

[oyecommerz]

Key Benefits of Migrating from Squarespace to Shopify

As your online store grows, it’s crucial to have a platform that scales with your business needs while offering powerful tools to optimize your e-commerce operations. Many businesses that initially start on Squarespace eventually find the need to migrate to a more robust and feature-rich platform like Shopify. While Squarespace is an excellent website builder with user-friendly design capabilities, Shopify is an industry leader when it comes to dedicated ecommerce functionality, scalability, and customization options.

In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the key benefits of migrating from Squarespace to Shopify, highlighting why this shift could be the right move for your growing business.

1. Enhanced E-commerce Capabilities

One of the most significant reasons for switching to Shopify is its superior e-commerce functionality. Squarespace is mainly a website builder with e-commerce features added as a secondary focus, whereas Shopify is purpose-built from the ground up to support online selling. When comparing the tools and features offered for managing an online store.

Shopify provides:

Advanced product management: You can manage complex product catalogs with variations like size, color, and material, and set up dynamic pricing for different options.

Comprehensive order management: Shopify offers sophisticated order processing tools, including tracking, fulfillment, and real-time shipping calculations.

Abandoned cart recovery: This feature sends automated emails to customers who leave items in their cart without completing the purchase, helping to recover lost sales.

Customer segmentation and marketing automation: Shopify allows you to segment customers based on factors like purchase history and location, enabling you to create targeted marketing campaigns for different groups.

Squarespace offers some of these features, but Shopify’s tools are more advanced and scalable, making it easier for businesses to handle larger inventories and more transactions.

2. Scalability and Performance

As your store grows, it’s important to have a platform that can handle increased traffic, transactions, and product listings without compromising performance. Shopify is designed with scalability in mind, making it ideal for businesses that anticipate rapid growth or already operate at a high level.

Some key points about Shopify’s scalability include:

Unlimited products and bandwidth: Unlike Squarespace, Shopify allows you to add unlimited products and offers unlimited bandwidth, meaning your site won’t slow down or experience downtime during high-traffic periods.

High-performance hosting: Shopify’s hosting infrastructure is optimized for e-commerce, ensuring that your website runs smoothly even during peak shopping seasons or flash sales.

Built-in CDN: Shopify’s content delivery network (CDN) helps ensure faster loading times for your site, regardless of where your customers are located. This can improve the user experience and boost conversions.

By contrast, Squarespace is more focused on smaller businesses and personal websites. While it’s suitable for entrepreneurs and creatives, it may not be able to handle the demands of a growing online store with thousands of products and high volumes of traffic.

3. Extensive App Ecosystem

Another key benefit of migrating to Shopify is access to its expansive app marketplace. Shopify’s app store features thousands of apps that extend the functionality of your store, allowing you to add custom features and integrations that are not available on Squarespace.

Some categories of apps available in Shopify’s ecosystem include:

Marketing and sales tools: Apps for email marketing, social media advertising, loyalty programs, and referral campaigns.

Accounting and finance: Integration with popular accounting platforms like QuickBooks, Xero, and FreshBooks to streamline financial management.

Shipping and fulfillment: Apps for real-time shipping rates, label printing, and integration with third-party logistics providers like ShipStation and DHL.

Customer service and support: Live chat, helpdesk solutions, and customer feedback tools that help improve customer relationships.

These apps allow you to customize and scale your store’s functionality to suit your business model. Whether you want to implement advanced SEO strategies, manage returns, or enhance customer engagement, the Shopify app store offers a wide array of solutions. Squarespace’s app integrations are more limited, which can restrict your ability to scale and automate various aspects of your e-commerce business.

4. Payment Gateways and Flexibility

A major advantage Shopify has over Squarespace is its flexibility in terms of payment gateways. Shopify supports over 100 payment gateways globally, including popular options like PayPal, Stripe, and Apple Pay, along with region-specific gateways that cater to different markets. This variety allows you to offer multiple payment methods to customers, enhancing convenience and potentially increasing conversion rates.

Shopify also has its own payment gateway, Shopify Payments, which integrates directly with your store and provides competitive transaction fees, saving you money on third-party processing fees. In contrast, Squarespace offers a more limited selection of payment gateways, typically restricting users to PayPal and Stripe in most regions.

This level of flexibility in Shopify allows you to easily accept payments in different currencies, which is essential if you’re selling internationally. The more payment options you offer, the better your chances of converting global visitors into paying customers.

5. Customizable Design and Themes

Shopify provides a wide selection of customizable themes, all specifically designed to enhance the e-commerce experience. Whether you want a clean and minimalistic look or a more dynamic and visually engaging design, Shopify’s theme store has options that cater to various industries and aesthetics. These themes are responsive, ensuring your store looks great on any device, from desktops to smartphones.

Key advantages of Shopify’s design flexibility include:

Professional e-commerce themes: Shopify themes are built for online stores and include features like product galleries, quick view options, and optimized checkout flows.

Customization options: With access to the theme’s HTML, CSS, and Liquid (Shopify’s templating language), developers can make advanced customizations to align the store with your brand identity.

Third-party themes: Shopify’s vibrant developer community offers a wide array of third-party themes for even more design options.

Drag-and-drop functionality: Shopify's intuitive editor allows users to easily customize their store without needing coding skills.

While Squarespace also provides beautiful design templates, they are primarily geared towards content-heavy websites like portfolios, blogs, and personal projects. Shopify’s themes are more focused on optimizing the shopping experience, ensuring that the design contributes to higher conversion rates.

6. SEO and Marketing Tools

Search engine optimization (SEO) is critical to driving organic traffic to your online store. Shopify provides a range of SEO features that make it easier to optimize your site for search engines, such as:

Customizable meta tags and URLs: Shopify lets you edit meta titles, descriptions, and URLs for each page, giving you more control over how your content appears in search results.

Mobile optimization: With mobile e-commerce on the rise, Shopify’s themes are fully responsive, ensuring a smooth user experience across all devices.

Built-in blog and content tools: Shopify makes it easy to maintain a blog, which is essential for content marketing and improving SEO.

Fast loading times: Shopify’s infrastructure is optimized for speed, which is a significant ranking factor for search engines.

Shopify also offers robust marketing tools such as built-in email marketing, discount codes, and integration with Google Ads and Facebook advertising. These tools help you reach a wider audience and drive more traffic to your store. While Squarespace offers basic SEO tools, Shopify’s focus on e-commerce makes its marketing and SEO capabilities far more extensive.

Unlock the Power of Shopify with OyeCommerz

Thinking about switching from Squarespace to Shopify? OyeCommerz is here to make the migration process effortless! With our expert team, you’ll experience enhanced e-commerce features, better scalability, and access to Shopify’s powerful app ecosystem—without losing any customer data or sales momentum.

Get Your Free Consultation Today Make the move to Shopify, and watch your business thrive! And get to know exactly what Shopware vs. Shopify is.

Conclusion

Migrating from Squarespace to Shopify can significantly enhance your online business by providing access to advanced e-commerce tools, scalability, and design flexibility. Shopify’s robust app ecosystem, extensive payment gateway options, and superior SEO features make it a powerful platform for growing businesses. If your current platform feels limiting or if you’re looking to take your online store to the next level, Shopify offers the tools and support you need to scale effectively.