Chapter 12: Um, What?

Author's Note: Heyyoo everyone! So HIXTAPE IS FINALLY OUT! AND I'M PROUD TO SAY THAT I STAYED UP LATE JUST TO SEE IT GET RELEASED AND IT WAS WORTH IT. OMG. IT'S HELLA LIT AND I'M JUST SO SO PROUD OF HOBI. T.T The entire Hixtape is awesome but Daydream would have to be my favourite! What about you guys? what's your favourite track?

Furthermore, I'm so very sorry for the loooong delay in the update. I've been so busy for summer internships applications. I do hope this long chapter makes up for the long wait. I started writing this on Valentine's Day but I just finished today. . Anyways, belated happy Valentine's!

Well then, onto the story! ;)

Legend:

Bold - English Translation

Italicized - Inner voice/monologue

Normal - spoken in Korean

Underlined - spoken in English

Bang PD – nim's POV

Clutching the white folder in my hand, I felt a proud smile creep up my face. In it, was the daily record of the girls' progress from the past three weeks and they were doing well. Very well.

I dragged my eyes to the first page of the bundle of papers in the folder. It was marked Group Evaluation. In it, an organized table was filled with remarks from their teachers on their performance as a group. I focused my gaze on the most recent entry.

Their harmonies are sounding superb. Their voices really blend well together. They've also shown incredible improvement in their breathing and their pitch.Jennifer seonsaengnim commented.

My smile grew wider upon reading. Jennifer seonsaengnim was a very strict and blunt coach. And she definitely doesn't mince her words.

Nice job, girls!

I proceeded to the next most recent entry.

Their dancing is coming together really well. Their moves are much more precise, much more graceful and much more appealing than their first day of training. There is more synchronicity within the members as well.Shin seonsaengnim noted.

I let out a sigh of relief as I thought back to the day Bangtan and the girls had a dance battle. They were pretty good then but it definitely took them more time to learn the moves and make it look nearly as good as Bangtan did, not to mention not all of them were skilled dancers. I held my chuckle as I recalled Haru's apparent difficulty in dancing then. Reading their obvious improvement since then made my heart swell with pride.

I lowered my gaze to the succeeding entry.

They've finished their Korean module and now have sufficient grasp of the language. Y/N, the most improved of all, who in the beginning had the most difficulty in learning it. But she proved to be a fast – learner and now can speak Korean quite well. Over – all, the girls are quite smart students.Lee seonsaengnim observed.

By then, I was grinning like a fool and doing a happy dance in my seat. I couldn't quite believe it. My girls were doing great. I danced for a bit more as I reminisced about the opposition I received from my staff when I first pitched the idea of forming a girl group, months ago. "It won't work." They said. "We're only known for Bangtan. How are we even going to get a target audience for them?" Others opposed. "We can't compete with other companies who have big girl groups in the market." Some argued. However I was determined. After I came up with an elaborate plan, my staff eventually and begrudgingly agreed. I was Hitman Bang, after all. I make the extremely difficult happen. Soon, to everyone's surprise, the public's response to our auditions for female trainees was so overwhelming, that on the first day the line for it reached even outside the building. Good things only went on from there, and we were able to choose our top four girls which amazingly, came from our unanimous votes.

And now here I was, sitting in my chair and reading even more positive responses from the girls' teachers and I couldn't feel prouder.

I have a good feeling about this. Fighting Hitman Bang!

I let out a whoop of victory before I pored over the next page marked 'Group Attitude'.

This is really organized. I'd have to commend Manager Mi Kyung for this. I thought impressed as I started reading the comments.

Jennifer seonsaengnim's was first.

They have great disposition and attitude and are very hardworking. When they don't get something right, they try it all over again until they get it right even to the point of exhaustion. Attitude – wise, they are well on their way to becoming successful idols. I pray that they keep it up.

Shin seonsaengnim's came after.

They have great teamwork. I remember on our first day when Haru was struggling really hard with the choreography, the rest of the girls really helped her out until she got it right. The same thing happened to Y/N as well, when I asked the girls to dance with heels. Her unnis didn't leave her to fend for herself and were with her every step of the painful way of dancing in heels. They have the teamwork that makes successful KPOP groups. I hope they maintain that for the rest of their career.

Lee seonsaengnim's was next.

They are very studious. I know that most of them aren't native speakers but I was very impressed with the amount of dedication they put into their studies which showed me that they care about being able to communicate to other people, especially their future fans. Kudos to them for a job well done. I hope they continue this mind –set for the rest of their studies.

I knew they were good – natured people. Assa!

I flipped the next page and found myself face to face with a page inscribed with 'Individual Evaluation'.

Okay. They do well as a group. But how are they individually?

With a bit of trepidation, I started reading their individual progress logs. The logs were arranged by age with their profiles listed first before their remarks.

Naturally, Somi came first. I glanced over her picture at the topmost right corner before reading the bulleted comments about her.

Kim Somi

24 years old

Profile

Natural Leader

Light, airy voice

Cheerful, outspoken, friendly and feminine

Fluent in Korean and English

Good dancer

Remarks

Less unstable breathiness in her voice, pitch and tone are also steadier; shown to have the second highest range next to Y/N

Dancing has improved and has more fluidity in it

Natural leading abilities are becoming more evident

Growing to be the most patient and understanding in the group

Feng Jiu's was second.

Zhang Feng Jiu

23 years old

Profile

Stunning visuals

Mysterious and alluring aura

Graceful and lyrical dancer, inarguably the best dancer in the group

Warm, broad and high contemporary voice

More introverted compared to the other members

Fluent in Chinese; can speak basic Korean and English

Remarks

Dancing is improving by the day despite being the best. Does NOT slack off in any way.

Is becoming more confident in her vocal runs

Has shown considerable rapping skills

Now fluent in Chinese AND Korean, English has also improved

Beginning to open up more to her fellow members

Proving to be the most mature and level – headed among the members

Haru's followed after.

Miyazaki Haruka

22 years old

Profile

Cute in all aspects

Potential, god – level rap skills

Child – like, bubbly personality

Deep, earthy voice

Poor dancer; hates dancing

Fluent in Japanese; can speak basic English and Korean

Remarks

Is the MOST improved in dancing among all members; Movements are now more graceful, more in time with the beat and more confident as she has gained enjoyment in dancing

Rapping steadily advances, approaching godlike status

Lower registers are more pronounced; can now reach high notes with more ease

Now fluent with Japanese AND Korean; English has improved as well

Is becoming more mature

Showing to be the most sensitive and affectionate of the group

And of course, Y/N the maknae, came last.

Y/N L/N

21 years old

Profile

High, melodic, rounded voice

SWAG

Boyish, blunt and determined

Striking, unique visuals

Amazing, natural dancer second only to Feng Jiu

Fluent in English and Filipino; can speak the most basic Korean

Remarks

Has the most versatile voice and the highest range; has shown the ability to go into whistle register

Dancing has become even more powerful and with more swagger

Is the most improved in Korean and is now fluent with the language

Can now dance in heels!

Is the hardest on herself

Appearing to be the most responsible and mother-like to the group, very opposite to her maknae image

After scanning their individual logs, I sighed and immediately felt a mixture of gratitude and amazement bubble inside me. It was such a feat for such opposite girls to be put into a group and somehow make it work. And such polar opposites they were. I guess the saying 'Opposites attract' really does ring true. Chuckling in sheer happiness, I put down the folder on my table and leaned back in my leather seat. Suddenly, three, quick knocks rapped on my door and I bid the person to come in. The door opened and in came Manager Mi Kyung, who sauntered in front of me and gave a respectful bow.

"Annyeonghaseyo, Bang PD – nim. You called for me?"

"Annyeonghaseyo Manager Mi Kyung. Yes I did. How are you today?"

"I'm well, thank you. And you?"

"More than well actually. I've read the progress log you prepared."

A hint of worry crept into her eyes. "Oh I see. And?"

"And it was very organized and well – detailed. Good job."

She sighed in relief and bowed in gratitude. "Whew. I'm glad I did it right. Thank you PD – nim."

I smiled at her kindly. "You should give yourself more credit. You're doing very well as their manager, Manager Mi Kyung."

"O – oh ah yes um." She sputtered in shock. "Thanks PD – nim."

"And as for the girls themselves, I'm glad to see them doing well. I'm very proud."

Manager Mi Kyung puffed out her chest in pride. "They are doing well. And as their manager it's truly heartwarming to see how far they've come. I only wish them the best in their training. And I promise to diligently stay by their side even after they debut and become K-Pop idols. "

"That's good to hear Manager." I nodded in appreciation. "Speaking of which, how are the girls doing today?"

"It's Sunday so they're just resting at home, although Y/N did ask me earlier to drive her somewhere to meet with a friend." Then she looked at me questioningly. "How about you PD – nim? Why aren't you at home? Weren't you supposed to have the day off today? It's Sunday."

I smiled at her sheepishly. "Sadly, my secretary called to say that I have a bunch of last – minute meetings scheduled this afternoon so today is a 'No Rest Day' for me. I saw your report on my table and just decided to read it."

"That's too bad. You should have your rest too, PD – nim. If your idols can afford to rest, then all the more you should too."

I scratched my head guiltily. "I know. I'll try to remember that. Thanks Manager Mi Kyung."

She shook her head at me then sighed

A silence lulled for a bit before I remembered something. "Oh and one more thing, don't forget to inform the girls about that ASAP. The sooner they get started, the better for them."

She thought for a bit then remarked. "Ohh that. Will do PD – nim." She glanced at her watch. "Well, I have to go PD – nim. I still have to grab a bunch of stuff for the girls."

I nodded then sat up with a start. "Wait before you go here are the girls' weekly allowance. Please don't forget to give it to them."

I handed her a sealed white envelope. "I won't forget. I'll be going now Bang PD – nim." She gave a quick bow then left.

Sighing, I reclined in my seat once again.

Rest, huh? Probably in a million years.

Jungkook's POV

A bustle of activity filled the dressing room as Big Hit stylists and staff scurried around to get ready. I tuned them all out as I dozed off while stylist noona put my make – up on. We were having a fan meeting today, and as usual everyone was doing their all to ensure that all of us was looking our best to meet our fans. I felt my head droop even further when a hand grabbed my shoulder. Blinking blearily, I saw V – hyung's boxy smile as he grinned at me cheekily. "Jungkookie, sleepy again are we? Did you stay up late again?"

I yawned and blinked to shake the sleepiness off. "Uh – huh. I played Overwatch til 2am. I couldn't help it. I had to beat a new record."

Jimin – hyung came over and clucked his tongue at me, apparently overhearing our conversation. "Aigoo, didn't you say you'll stop playing games for now? You said you were going to concentrate on your singing."

I sighed wearily. "I know hyung. I just had a little relapse. It won't happen again."

"It better not. Or Namjoon – hyung is going to chew us out again."

I pictured another round of lecture from our leader and cringed at the thought. He doesn't shout, when he reprimands us but it can be very blunt and be very mouthful so we avoid frustrating or angering him in any way.

"Ugh. Never again. Thanks for the heads up, hyung."

Jiminie – hyung winked at me. "Anytime." Shortly, he was called by his stylist Noona and so it was back to V – hyung and me. I felt sleepy again so I decided to continue my nap. V – hyung let me be as he sat in one of the chairs to watch anime. He loves anime and although I held some fondness for it, I wasn't really addicted to it as much as him.

Moments later, I felt a much more urgent shake on my shoulders. I let out an annoyed sigh and opened my eyes to see Namjoon – hyung in front of me, a slightly stern expression on his face.

I gulped nervously, thinking he was going to call me out for staying up late again, but thankfully, he did no such thing.

"Kookie, it's time." He said before striding to exit the room.

"Okay, Hyung." I shook myself out from sleep and followed the rest of the members who got up and exited the room.

Waving, we went up the stage where a long table was laid out. Upon seeing us, ARMY went wild. I still don't get used to all the love we receive so I flinched a bit at their shrill screams. Jin – hyung who was behind me just chuckled at my reaction and I rolled my eyes at him. We seated ourselves in the following order: Jin – hyung, Namjoon – hyung, V – hyung, Suga – hyung, Jimin – hyung, Hobi – hyung and then me. Shortly the moderator began with the program when the double doors suddenly burst open and two feminine figures scurried in. A bit startled by the noise, I turned my head and I felt my jaw drop and my heart soar in happiness as I saw that familiar powder blue hoodie. I'd know that powder blue hoodie anywhere. Noona was here.

"Ladies, if you would be so kind to get to your seats. The program has begun." The moderator said with a hint of annoyance.

Noona and her friend bowed apologetically then scurried to their seats as I followed them with my eyes.

Hobi – hyung clapped my shoulder. "Yah wasn't that Y/N? What is she doing here?"

I shrugged my shoulders at him. I was as confused as he was. And apparently we weren't the only ones, as I found the other members meeting my gaze with a mixture of confusion and amazement in their eyes.

The moderator went back to hosting, but I kept my eyes on Noona. She was seated on the fifth row and from where I was I could see that the earlier scene had embarrassed her, as she fidgeted in her seat, twisted her cap and lowered it towards her face.

You have a penchant for awkward situations don't you, Noona?

Instantly, a bright idea popped in my head and I felt a bunny smirk fill my face. I whispered to Hobi – hyung who chuckled at my plan and passed the message to Jimin – hyung, who snickered and shook his head. He whispered to Suga – hyung who just looked bored and unimpressed. He rarely was impressed with my childish antics. Nonetheless, he shrugged and went to murmur to V – hyung beside him who clapped his hands in glee. He shared the message to Namjoon – hyung who sat back with a start and looked at me with a mixture of uncertainty and reprimand. 'Are you sure?' He mouthed to me. I gave him thumbs up and waved my hand away as if to say it was fine. He sighed, gave a defeated laugh and murmured to my eldest hyung, who had his eyes wide in shock upon hearing what I had in mind. Then, he began laughing his butt off and shot me an amused glance to which I gave a haughty smirk. Most of my hyungs were with me and I felt my Evil Bunny flare up even more. Noona was going to be in so much trouble.

I can't wait.

Y/N's POV

It was a peaceful, uneventful Sunday morning. I was in the living room, watching tv and lounging with my unnis when my phone suddenly rang. Excusing myself, I went to the balcony to answer the call.

"Yeoboseyo?"

"Y/N! Annyeong!" Youngie's cheerful voice greeted me back.

I chuckled. She has such a contagious, vibrant energy.

"So are we still on today?"

"You bet! I was actually just waiting for your call. What time are we going to meet?"

"Um how about in an hour? I still have some errands to run."

"Okay, sure. The same place?"

"The same place. See you then!"

"See you!" I ended the call and skipped back inside. I haven't bonded with Youngie in such a long time and today we were doing just that. The idea had me deliriously happy.

"Who was that Y/N?" Somi – unni asked when I came back to the living room.

"Oh it was my friend Youngie. I'll be spending the day with her, if you guys don't mind?" I looked to my unnis for approval.

"Oh not at all. You go ahead." Haru – unni said around a mouthful of popcorn.

"You bet. We'll just spend the rest of the day watching tv. You know just chilling." Feng Jiu – unni added with a nonchalant shrug.

"Go maknae. Have fun. But remember to be back before you dinner. We need to eat you know." Somi – unni said cheekily.

I rolled my eyes at her playfully. "Yes, yes Oh great Unni. I'll be back before dark."

She chuckled at my response and I winked at her in return. I went to our room to ready my clothes then sent a quick text to Mi Kyung unni asking if she could drive me into town. Youngie and I were meeting at our favorite café across town. It was quite far. She replied a few seconds later to say that it won't be any problem at all since she was coming into town for some errands and that she'll arrive in 30 minutes. I sent her a quick thanks then quickly showered and got dressed. Soon, I said goodbye to my unnis and went down with 5 minutes to spare. Moments later, our black van zipped to a stop by the curb and the window rolled down to reveal Mi Kyung unni's smiling face.

"Hop in."

"Thanks for the lift!" I said when I was seated properly.

"You're welcome."

The car zipped away and unni and I spent the entire ride having idle chit chat. I asked her about the goings on in Big Hit and she told me that Bangtan was going to have their Japanese comeback soon. No wonder Jungkook and the others were so busy lately. He and I haven't seen each other since that day at the café where he sang for me.

Wait why am I even thinking about that? Focus Y/N!

I turned my attention back to Unni whom I caught asking about how the unnis and I were doing. I smiled and told her that we were now mostly used to the hectic everyday schedule. However, the trainings were a whole other story. I grimaced and groused that they were getting so much more challenging and infinitely harder. She gave a sympathizing smile. "You better brace yourself Y/N. It's only going to get tougher from here. It doesn't ever stop even after you guys debut."

I sighed. "I know Unni. It's the price that comes with being an idol. It's just that human as we are, it's just so tiring and frustrating you know?"

"Hang in there Y/N. I know you guys can do it. Just think of Bangtan's journey. It was definitely hard but they stayed strong through it all because it was their dream. And look at them now."

I nodded my head with conviction. Indeed, their road to stardom was initially filled with strife but eventually they were able to reach the stars and become stars themselves.

"You're right, Unni. Thanks. And thanks for being always there for us."

"It's nothing. I'm just doing my job. And you guys honestly make my job much more fun and eventful."

I smiled at her in gratitude and she gave me one in return.

Soon we arrived at the café. I got off the car, bowed to her in thanks and went inside. I scanned my eyes around the quaint, wooden – floored area and saw Youngie seated at our usual seat at the back by a window. I scurried over and tapped her back.

"Annyeong Y/N!" She greeted in surprise.

"Annyeong Youngie! You ready?"

"You bet. But before that here." She rummaged into her bag and gave me white paper bag.

I looked at her hesitatingly. "What's this?"

"Just open it."

I did and found myself gasping in awe at what I saw. It was a Love Yourself – Her album by BTS including a Jungkook photocard and a photobook.

"W – what? H – how? Wh – en?"

"First of all you should close your mouth. You look like a fish out of water."

I gave her a pointed stare.

"And to answer your question, I bought that weeks ago along with mine." She raised her own album which had a Jimin photocard. "Remember that time we went into that record store and saw the album? I was ready to buy it then and there, but then I saw noticed your yearning but sad face and I knew you couldn't afford it at the time. So I decided to postpone buying it and instead save enough so I can buy one for you as well. I hope you don't mind."

"I should be saying that Youngie!" I was flabbergasted and rightfully so. Albums can be expensive and Youngie bought not only one, but two and one was for me. This impulsive kid. "You shouldn't have gone through all the trouble."

She crossed her arms at me and gave me a playfully reprimanding stare. "If I didn't, then I doubt you would ever buy one for yourself. You've only got one of their albums, and I distinctly remember you being so regretful when you bought it because you only managed to send a little amount of money back home." She sighed. "You're so hard on yourself. You should buy more things for yourself." Then she pointed at my powder blue hoodie.

"Look at that hoodie. I've only ever seen you wear that!"

"But I love this hoodie!"

She looked at me pointedly. "Be honest, how many hoodies do you actually own?"

"One."

"And that is?"

I looked at her in slight annoyance. What did it matter if I only had one hoodie? One is enough for me. "The one I'm wearing right now."

"See what I mean?" She sighed exasperatedly and set her hands on her hips, and put on her signature Youngie reprimanding stance. "You're going to become an idol in the near future so you better start dressing appropriately and take better care of yourself. Arasso?" There's no winning with Youngie when she was like this so with a defeated sigh I consented.

"Ne. Arasso Min Young sunbaenim."

"Good." She gave me a triumphant smile before checking her time. I was about to take my seat when Youngie stopped me.

"Ya! Y/N you can't sit down! We're going somewhere!"

"Um, what? Where?"

"I'm not telling you. It's a surprise!" She grabbed my arm and dragged me all the way outside.

"W – wait! Youngie stop! Slow down!"

She looked back at me a little annoyed. "We can't! We'll be late if we do! Hurry up chingu – ya!"

Soon, we arrived at the bus stop, just as the bus arrived. Youngie continued to drag me up until we finally got to our seats. She sighed in relief as I peered at her suspiciously.

"Youngie what is going on? I haven't seen you this flustered before."

"I told you. It's a surprise. You'll know when we get there." Was her only response as she bit back a smile.

Turns out I was going to find out a little later then she expected since we hit a heavy traffic in the middle of town. A slight bumper to bumper car accident occurred resulting in all the vehicles getting stranded. It wouldn't have taken that long for everything to be resolved, if the two drivers chose to compromise instead of just arguing whose fault it was. I was watching the scene fold in my seat by the window with a mixture of boredom and annoyance, while Youngie was a restless, jumpy mess beside me.

"Aigoo what is taking those two ahjussis so long? We're going to be late, dang it!"

Thankfully, one of the stranded drivers came to intervene and before long, the two parties settled their differences, allowing the trapped cars to pass through. The entire ordeal took 30 minutes and through it all Youngie was inconsolable.

Soon, we got off and she dragged me yet again towards a tall white building, that looked like a hall of sorts from the outside.

"Aigoo, we're late! The event started 5 minutes ago!"

Event? What event?

My curiousity was piqued yet again so I asked Youngie one last time as we flew over the last flight of stairs towards the big double doors. She pushed the door open and we went inside.

"Youngie what event are you talking a-" I stopped midsentence as my breath caught in my throat.

Heol.

What seemed like dozens of pairs of eyes swivelled into our direction, startled by the sound of the door banging. But, what really caught my attention and rooted me to the spot were the seven startled pairs of eyes of the people seated on the long table on stage. Seven people I was very familiar with.

Youngieeeeeee!

I hurriedly lowered the black baseball cap over my face praying against hope that they haven't seen me, all the while remembering a particular stipulation in our contract.

Until instructed by Bang PD – nim, no one can know that you are a trainee under Big Hit nor that you are associated with BTS in any way.

They can't have possibly seen me right? I have my cap on. Right. They haven't seen me. Calm down Y/N. Calm down.

I took deep, calming breaths as Youngie laughed awkwardly in hopes to ease the tension in the atmosphere. Apparently, the moderator was not amused as he looked at us in mild annoyance.

"Ladies, if you would be so kind to get to your seats. The program has begun."

We quickly bowed in apology and scurried over to our seats which were in the fifth row. The moderator went back to hosting and turned my glower over to Youngie who laughed nervously.

"Surprise?"

"Yes Youngie. I am very surprised. But not in the way you think. What were you thinking?!" I shrieked to the annoyance of an ARMY behind us who shushed us fervently.

I bowed my head to her in apology and lowered my voice to a hiss.

"Really Youngie, I want to know."

She sighed and bowed her head in remorse.

"I really just wanted to surprise you. I really just wanted to give you the album." She whispered back to me.

"But then by some luck I got fan meeting passes for both our albums so I just took the chance. I wouldn't want to pass up the opportunity to meet the boys in person. And I honestly wanted to spend time with you. What better time than during a fan meeting of a group we both admire?"

She ended with pleading look. I expelled an exasperated breath.

Well, it really wasn't her fault. I mean, I really didn't tell her about the stipulations in the contract.

I lowered my voice even further, ensuring that what I was about to say was for her ears only.

"Youngie no one can find out about me or my relationship with Bangtan. The whole idol trainee thing has to be kept secret until PD – nim says otherwise. What if the guys do something that exposes us? Or what if I slip up? We could all be in big trouble."

She bit her lip in consternation.

"I'm sorry chingu – ya. I really didn't know."

Then she paused to think before speaking again.

"But you know what? I don't think the boys will expose you in any way. I mean they're pretty goofy but when it comes to serious matters they stay serious." I raise my eyebrows to her in doubt.

"How sure are you that they know about keeping our existence a secret?"

"Um pretty sure?"

I blew out another breath. "Aigoo. Fine. I'll just be extra discreet."

I just hope to God, Bangtan doesn't do something Bangtan–y . But knowing Jungkook that'll probably be close to nil.

Sighing one last time, I settled in my seat and focused on the activities on stage. The moderator continued to orient the audience about the rules and regulations for the fanmeeting while, Bangtan who seemed to have gotten over the commotion earlier, were now were busy among themselves. Jin and RM were talking quietly. V was bugging Suga who looked like he would be spitting fire at him at any moment. And Jimin and Hobi were laughing at something Jungkook was saying. Jungkook was making such a funny, goofy face that I let out a startled snicker of my own.

"What's wrong Y/N?" Youngie asked.

I pointed my lips at Jungkook. "He's being his extra self again. Look at him."

Youngie looked over at him and giggled as well. "He's always been extra. That's what makes him Jeon Jungkook."

As if sensing we were talking about him, Jungkook suddenly turned to our direction and I quickly sunk into my seat and lowered my cap even further to conceal my face.

"Did he see me?"

"Probably, since you're being too obvious."

"Youngie!"

"Oh calm down. He didn't see you. Now take a chill pill and just enjoy the rest of the fanmeeting with me, okay?"

"Ok. Sorry Youngie." I gave her an apologetic smile which she responded to with a bright smile of her own.

The rest of the fanmeeting went on with even more hilarity. The fans asked Bangtan some questions to which they answered truthfully and playfully. I even found myself enjoying the event and laughing along with the rest of the ARMYs. Until the time for the one on one interaction with Bangtan, along with the signing of the photobooks and albums came, and I felt my stomach plummet once more with worry.

"Come on chingu – ya. Let's go line up." Youngie grabbed my hand but I remained seated.

"Youngie, I – I can't do this." I bit my lip worriedly.

"Sure you can. Where's the cool and bad – ass Y/N that I know and love?"

I hung my head down. There was a lot at stake here. My dream. Bangtan's reputation. One slip up could send everything down the drain.

Youngie sighed. "Well, if you're so worried about them blowing your cover then just pretend you don't know them. Pretend you're just a normal fan who is excited to meet her idols in person. That's not too hard is it?"

I swivelled my head up in shock as my eyes grew wide as saucers. "Youngie you're a freaking genius! Thank you!"

I clapped her shoulder in appreciation and she flipped her hair in pride.

"Well I don't want to brag but I am a genius."

I snickered. She grabbed my arm and pulled behind her towards the growing line of ARMYs waiting for their turn. I arranged my cap to obscure most of my face, with one hand, and held onto my album and photobook securely with the other. The line was going in a relatively fast manner.

The procedure was: give the photobook and album to the BTS member, talk for a bit, receive the signed items, then proceed to the next member. Before long, Youngie was walking towards Jin – oppa which means that I was almost up.

Breathe Y/N. Breathe.

I kept my focus on Youngie who was trying her best not to faint on the spot. I chuckled. It was her first time to be up close and personal with Bangtan. And Jin – oppa in person was dazzling. Pictures couldn't do justice his handsomeness justice. (And yes he was handsome. But I'm speaking to this in a platonic manner. I'm not attracted to him.) A Worldwide Handsome, indeed. She sputtered for a bit before handing over her album and photobook. Jin – oppa was all smiles. He even held her hand for a bit and I was sure Youngie died right there on the spot. With a final flustered wave, she moved over to Namjoon – oppa and it was my turn.

Squaring my shoulders I strode until I was before Jin – oppa. Then I gave him a respectful bow.

"Annyeonghaseyo, I'm Y/N. Nice to meet you."

I looked up to his eyes to see that they were filled with warm familiarity and was that … mischief?

Oh please no.

"Hello, Y/N. How are you today?"

"I'm fine, thank you. And you?"

"Really well since I get to see a very special person today."

Oh no you don't.

I ignored his remark and gave my items to him instead. Smiling, he took them. He flipped to his photos and scribbled on them, while I stood there twiddling my fingers. So far, so good.

Just let me get through this.

When he was finished he handed me back my items and I bowed in gratitude to him. I was about to head to Namjoon – oppa next when he suddenly grabbed my hand and kissed it to my utter horror.

Jin – oppaaaaaa!

"Annyeong, cutie! Until we meet again." He said with a wink before turning to the next person.

Shaking off my horror, I scurried over to Namjoon – oppa who was already waiting for me with a big smile on his face that showcased his dimples.

Please don't fail me, Oppa. Please.

I bowed and gave my items to him as well.

"Annyeong Namjoon – Oppa."

"Hey! A wonderful day isn't it?" He replied in English.

Startled, I replied back in English as well. "Yes. Yes it is."

He signed my items then gave them back to me. I bowed back to him again and was about to go when his voice stopped me.

"Wait, you look familiar. Have we met before?"

Oppa why?

I answered him nervously. "Um I don't think so."

"Really? Because you look like someone who's very dear to me." He said with smug smile.

"Positive. I'm just a simple fan." I said quickly and said goodbye before he could say anything else.

Tae was up next and as usual he had on his boxy smile. Like the other two, I greeted him with a bow and handed over my items to him. Then without preamble he said with an extreme aegyo I was stunned. "You're very pretty. Can I bring you home?"

Yah! Tae you – you!

"Sorry but you can't. With all due respect, I am a person not a thing."

He finished signing then glanced at me.

"Aw, that's too bad. You would suit my room very well." He said meaningfully.

I gave him the side eye before bowing in farewell, clutching my photobook and album even more tightly, I slight suspicion forming in the pit of my stomach. Something was up. I couldn't pinpoint exactly what, but it was there.

Suga – oppa was right after Tae. Thankfully, he looked like his usual self so I let out a sigh of relief before giving my stuff to him. He signed quickly.

"Hey Y/N when are you coming again? I'm craving your cooking. And Jin – hyung says he wants to learn more Filipino dishes from you."

Puta- (Motherfu-)

I twisted my head to see if anyone else heard what Suga – oppa said but the person after me was busy mooning over Namjoon – oppa's dimples.

Whew. Thank goodness for Oppa's dimples.

I turned back to oppa and gave him a pleading stare that I hoped he understood and bowed in goodbye.

Jimin – oppa was seated next to him. I greeted him the same way I did the others and waited for him patiently to finish signing my things. There was one weird thing about him though: he kept on pushing his hair back even more than usual.

What is up with him?

He finished quickly. I was about to move forward when he suddenly grabbed my free hand and put it to his plump cheek.

"I wish I had long, elegant fingers like these. I only have short, plump ones." He grumbled cutely.

Gahhhhhh!

My face flared up in indignation and embarrassment.

Hobi – oppa, noticed his grumbling and chuckled. "Jiminie, your short fingers and your plump cheeks are your charm points. ARMYs love you for that."

"Sigh. I know."

Then Jiminie – Oppa turned back to me.

"But seriously, you have really pretty fingers."

I quickly extracted my hand from his grasp. "I – I see. T – thank you. Annyeong."

I dashed towards Hobi – oppa who was beaming like the sun itself. Without preamble I thrust my stuff to him and he chuckled, obviously taken aback.

Everyone is acting really weird. Weirder than usual. Something's definitely up and I'm going to find out for sure!

Making up my mind, I leaned closer to Hobi – oppa who was still scrawling over his photos.

"Oppa." I whispered. "What's going on? Why is everyone acting so strangely?"

"You noticed huh?" He chuckled in a hushed tone. "Ask Jungkookie. He was the one who came up with all this."

Of course it was Jungkook! When is it not him?

He returned my stuff and I smiled stiffly at him, my insides all in knots.

I'm going to kill that punk.

The said punk was grinning evilly at me as my turn with him finally came up. Wordlessly, I let him sign my things.

"So what'd you think about our little greeting? We're pretty accommodating to ARMYs aren't we?"

I gritted my teeth in anger. "I am not amused Jeon Jungkook." I hissed at him. "I'm going to kill you one of these days and you're going to realize all over again that it's never wise to mess with me."

The little punk just smirked at me. "We'll see about that Noona. I'm the Golden Maknae, after all. And making mischief is one of my specialties."

"You're on."

I gave him my most evil stare, bowed quickly, grabbed my things and turned to go when he abruptly stood up and yanked on my arm. What he did next ended me right then and there.

He lifted my cap a little bit higher then planted a chaste kiss on my forehead. "Sorry Noona. I just wanted to mess with you a little bit. I miss seeing your disgruntled face. You haven't been around the dorm in a while."

JEON JUNGKOOK NAHIHIBANG KA NA BA?! (JEON JUNGKOOK ARE YOU CRAZY?!)

Holy crap. I am dead. Deader than dead.

I knew I was in big trouble and I felt fear in that moment but underneath it all, something fluttered inside. My heart beat faster as a myriad of emotions overtook me. I placed my hand over it and took a deep breath.

Kalma, Y/N. Kalma. (Calm down, Y/N. Calm down.)

I gave him what I hoped to be a calm smile.

"Thank you for the signature Jungkook – ssi. It was nice meeting you."

He looked taken aback by my formality, but smiled his bunny smile nevertheless.

"You're welcome Noona. See you around."

The rest of the fanmeeting continued uneventfully. At around late afternoon, BTS waved goodbye to ARMY and left. Youngie and I left as well. She was radiating with warmth and giddiness while I was giving off worry and gloom. I couldn't help it. I knew everyone saw the stunt Jungkook did but surprisingly no one gave me flack about it. It was weird. Like a calm before the storm.

I spent the rest of the late afternoon with Youngie and we had a swell time. I had too much fun with her that I almost forgot all my troubles. Almost, because reality still had a way of forcing you to stop and smell the garbage.

"I'm home." I called to my unnis as the door slammed behind me. Immediately footsteps came pattering, and my unnis came into view, almost running over each other trying to reach me.

"Unnis, what's the matter?"

Somi – unni spoke up first. "Would you care to explain this to me?" She held her phone up to my face with a very stern expression.

"Explain what?"

"Just look at it please."

I peered at her phone and saw the Twitter worldwide trends list. Blue Hoodie Girl was at number 1. All at once, the sick feeling in my stomach returned again.

I am undeniably, irrevocably, totally screwed.

Author's Note: So …. Thoughts? Opinions? Violent Reactions? Any guesses as to what the "that" Bang PD – nim and Manager Mi Kyung were talking about? xD