Chapter 14: Not Today
Author's Note:
I finally have a beta – reader! *squeals* Everyone let's all give a warm welcome to HugsHealththeSoul! She'll be working very closely with me from now on. I've actually started collaborating with her and she has been the sweetest! I couldn't have asked for a better beta and I appreciate all the help she's given me thus far. This is now her work as much as it is mine. ^_^
Also, I hope you guys like the early update. I figured I needed to give you guys a treat for being so patient with my inconsistent updates. xD
Okay then. Let's see how all our characters are doing!
Legend:
Bold - English Translation
Italicized - Inner voice/monologue
Normal - spoken in Korean
Underlined - spoken in English
Y/N's POV
"Y/N."
"Y/N."
"Y/N!"
I dropped my spoon as I came out of my stupor. I looked to my right to see Somi – unni's face creased with worry.
"I've called your name three times now. Are you alright?"
I sighed. Somi – unni was in her 'Concerned Unni mode' again.
"No unni. I'm not. Isn't it strange that we haven't heard from Bang PD – nim until now? I'm sure he must've already heard about what happened."
Feng Jiu – unni cradled her jaw thoughtfully. "That's true. He would've sent us a message by now. What do you think he's going to do?"
"Ugh I just hope he doesn't do anything drastic." I groaned. "It really, honestly, wasn't my fault."
I picked up my spoon and forlornly scooped some rice into my mouth while my unnis shot each other troubled looks. Haru – unni spoke up first.
"Speaking of which Y/N have you spoken to Jungkook – ssi yet? Did he say something?"
I grunted around my spoonful of rice. "He left me several voice calls but I haven't listened to any of them. I don't want to hear his voice."
"Y/N that's not very nice." Somi – unni reprimanded me. "He might want to apologize to you."
"Well he should've thought hard first before pulling that stupid prank! Now I'm in this whole mess and Bang PD – nim might seriously consider terminating my contract."
Haru – unni gripped my hand reassuringly. "Don't worry Y/N. You got this."
I gave her a shaky smile in return.
You think?
But Haru – unni couldn't have been more wrong when, after we finished our morning routine and got dressed, a grim – faced Mi Kyung Unni fetched us from the dorm.
"Good morning girls. Your dance practice for this morning has been postponed for the afternoon. Bang PD – nim wants to see you."
All at once the feeling of dread returned to my stomach and I tried to maintain a semblance of calm while my unnis once again threw concerned looks at each other. The whole car ride to Big Hit, my mind was reeling with worst case scenarios as my inner voice argued with itself.
Oh my gosh. You are doomed Y/N. Really doomed.
Wait. We haven't even heard it directly from PD – nim himself.
What? You think he's going to be all rainbows and smiles at you? We're talking about your identity being compromised Y/N! It was stated clearly in the contract!
B – but b- but
"Maknae we're here." Somi – unni gently nudged my shoulder.
"N – ne Unni." I shook my head and got off the car, the weight in my gut grew heavier by the minute. By the time we arrived at the same conference room all four of us met the first time, my palms were sweating and my breaths came in short puffs. Somi – unni held my hand reassuringly and smiled at me as we sat down on the long table.
A few moments later, the door to the room swung open and Bang PD – nim came in with such an uncharacteristically serious expression, all the remaining air was knocked out from my body.
Patay, patay, pataaaay. (I'm so dead, dead, deaaad.)
He sat down and looked at us one by one, his gaze lingered on mine longer than usual and I shrunk back in fear. Then he sighed.
"I'm sure you girls know by now why I called for you, right?"
"Ne." We responded forlornly.
"Thankfully, the media hasn't sniffed out Y/N's identity. ARMY has done a wonderful job protecting her with #ProtectBlueHoodieGirl. We've scoured the web, and no pictures of Y/N's visible face have been found."
Bang PD – nim paused.
My unnis gave relieved sighs but I could feel a 'but' coming.
"But the issue here is you Y/N – ssi." He redirected his stern gaze to me. I took a deep breath and cautiously met it.
"It's good that your cover hasn't been blown and that ARMY has been extremely supportive of you. But what if it was the opposite? You would have violated a very important stipulation in the contract, a contract that might I add, I asked you girls to read and understand thoroughly before signing. What were you thinking?"
I felt a slight indignation at that I tried to push down. This was not the time to argue with Bang PD – nim.
Pero teka nga lang. Bakit ako lang ang sinisisi niya? Eh hindi naman ang nagsimula nito ah! Yung tarantadong si Jeon Jungkook!
(But wait. Why is he blaming me? I'm not the one who started this! It's that shameless Jeon Jungkook!)
Kumalma ka nga. Ano makikipag-away ka kay PD – nim? Tapos ano tatapusin niya yung kontrata mo? Tapos uuwi ka at pagsisisihan mo buong buhay mo nagpadalos – dalos ka at nagpadala ka sa emosyon mo kaya di mo nakamit ang pangarap mo. Umayos ka Y/N.
(Calm down. What are you going to argue with PD – nim? Then what he's going to terminate your contract? Then you're going home and you're going to regret for the rest of your life that you let your emotions get the better of you that hindered you from reaching your dream. Get it together Y/N.)
Pero ang daya eh! (But it's so unfair!)
Oo nga alam ko ang daya. Pero ano ba ang mas matibang? Ang pakiramdam na nadaya ka o ang pangarap mo? Alalahanin mo Y/N marami kang sinakripisyo para makarating dito.
(It is unfair. But what matters more? The injustice of it all or your dream? Rememberhow much you've sacrificed just to get here.)
Alam mo nakakainis ka. (You know you piss me off.)
Alam mong tama ako. (You know I'm right.)
I sighed and squared my shoulders. Then I bowed my head to him in apology. "I'm sorry Bang PD – nim. I'm really sorry." I raised my head and held his gaze with a strong one of my own.
"I didn't know things could get this worse. I honestly just came with my friend to the fan meeting because she's such a huge fan of BTS and she begged me to come. I tried really hard. I was very civil and formal towards Bangtan. I even pretended not to know them because I knew I had to be kept a secret." I paused debating if I should continue or not.
"Go on." Bang PD – nim urged me with a firm nod.
"But the circumstances were out of my control and I… I did the best I could. But if my best wasn't enough, I'm prepared to… to accept whatever the consequences may be."
I glanced at my unnis as if to tell them I was okay.
Haru – unni held my other hand tightly while Somi – unni tightened her grip on the other. Feng Jiu – unni gave me a confident smile.
We'll get past this it seemed to say.
I hope so, Unni. I really hope so.
A few tense moments of silence enveloped the room as Bang PD – nim surveyed the four of us with a thoughtful frown. Finally he sighed and his eyes lost a fraction of the intensity it had earlier.
"Well let's just be thankful that nothing even worse happened. But I urge you Y/N be careful. All of you be very careful. You see now how much fuss there can be about an idol's life. Imagine when you become idols. Your everyday life will be monitored by the media and by the people like a hawk watching his prey. One small act can literally affect your career. Please, please bear in this in mind before you decide to do something extreme like shave your head or something."
All four of us let out startled laughs. Bang PD's comedic timing was unexpected.
He gave us that friendly, fluffy smile we were all so used to. "Seriously, be careful girls, all right?"
My unnis and I glanced at each other with certainty in our eyes. No way were we going to let something like this happen again.
"Ne Bang PD – nim. We understand." We chorused.
He smiled again and instantly his entire demeanor went back to his usual warm self. "Now that we got that issue dealt with I have another thing I want to discuss with you ladies."
Wait what? What is it this time?
We shot each other anxious glances before glancing at Bang PD – nim.
"Oh don't worry! This time, it's good news."
We sighed in noticeable relief.
"As you know you girls, it's been almost a month since you girls started your training. As such, you'll be having your monthly evaluation three days from now."
We gasped in shock.
Three days? But that's barely enough time to prepare!
"I know three days is cutting it close but I believe in you girls. And your instructors certainly do. I've read their progress reports and they have nothing but praise for you. You have nothing to worry about. I'm sure you'll do well."
He paused to let that sink in before continuing.
"And since you're one of the two groups our company is handling, I'll be asking BTS to watch your performance with me. They're your sunbaes so I'm sure they'll have a lot of feedback to give."
Another round of gasps resounded in the room, with mine being the loudest and the most indignant.
WHAT?!
Somi – unni spoke up for us. "B – but PD – nim isn't that additional pressure for us? I mean they're BTS."
"Pressure's good because it pushes people to do even better until they become the best. And I only expect the best from you, girls."
I rubbed my hands over my face.
Great. So now aside from having to impress Bang PD – nim, I also have to impress that jerk? Awesome!
"You can choose whatever song you want to perform as long as it's a song fit for sing and dance. Your instructors will be helping you so if you're feeling iffy about the short time, don't be. Your sessions with them for the next three days will just be rehearsals for the evaluation so you'll have ample time to prepare. Now then any questions?"
My unnis and I mulled over this silently.
Then Feng Jiu – unni piped up. "Um PD – nim where will we perform? Will we just do it in the dance room?"
"No. Since this is a special event you'll be performing in one of the concert halls nearby, complete with stage, lights and all. It'll just be like having your very own concert with the few of us as your audience."
Greaaaaat. I'm so pumped I could just punch someone!
Haru – unni raised her hand up.
"Yes, Haru – ssi?"
"Um what will we wear? Can we just wear whatever we want?"
"Yes and no. You can wear whatever you want as long as it fits the concept of the song you chose. Furthermore, there will be stylists and make – up artists to help you get ready."
Did he just say "make up"?
Bang PD – nim surveyed our expressions. Somi – unni looked unsure. Feng Jiu – unni had her poker face on. Haru – unni looked excited. And me? My face was still frozen in a mask of horror from earlier.
"So any more questions?"
I pushed through with no hesitation. "Will Bangtan evaluate us with you or will you do it alone?"
He looked at me with a twinkle in his eye. "Good question Y/N – ssi. No. I'll be the one to do the evaluating. They'll just be there to observe and give comments."
I inwardly sighed in gratitude.
Thank goodness! The thought of having that punk grade me in some way sickens me!
"Well then if there are no more questions, I'll see you ladies in three days' time. Good luck. Fighting!"
He raised his fist in the air and gave us a bright smile.
We stood up, gave him a bow and exited the room. A few paces outside, we finally let loose and gave out hushed shrieks.
"Oh my god. I thought I was going to die in there!" Somi – unni breathed as she clutched her heart.
"Tell me about it Unni. I've never seen PD – nim so serious. It was unnerving!" Haru – unni shuddered.
Feng Jiu – unni turned toward me with a hint of concern in her eyes. "How about you Y/N. How are you holding up?"
"Well aside from almost dying from fear and now learning I have to perform in front of that punk, I'm doing fine." I muttered dryly.
"At least PD – nim didn't terminate your contract. That would've sucked more."
"Yeah it would."
"So what are you planning on doing now?"
"Go on with the performance of course. I can't let my troubles get in the way of us doing well in the evaluation and making PD – nim proud. You guys deserve so much better. And I certainly won't let that damn punk prevent me from doing my best! Personal issues be damned, I'm going to sing and dance my butt out on that stage even if that's the last thing I do!" I pumped my fist in the air with conviction.
My unnis just laughed at my outburst and shook their heads in mirth.
"You know what, that's really one of the things I love about you maknae." Somi – unni commented in between giggles. "You're so stubbornly determined and fiery that I can't help admiring you even more. It's kinda intimidating, actually."
I looked at her with a start. "Me? Intimidating? I'm not intimidating."
"Yes you are." Feng Jiu – unni interjected. "But in a good way. You're so unapologetically you, it makes me want to be me too."
I glanced at Feng Jiu – unni confusedly. "But you are you."
She giggled at my confusion. "One day, you'll understand our dear maknae. For now, why don't we just head to the dance room and discuss about what song we're going to sing, alright?"
The rest of the members nodded and we walked towards the direction of the dance room. We were a few paces away when my day got even worse.
Bangtan was walking towards us.
Namjoon – oppa was ahead the rest of the members and saw us first. "Oh Somi – ssi and the girls. Annyeong!"
His outburst alerted the other members to our presence and they waved to us as they got closer. One member in particular was waving his hands wildly to get my attention but I purposely ignored him and chose to look at Namjoon – oppa's smiling face instead.
My unnis and I stopped a few paces from Bangtan and bowed.
"Annyeonghaseyo, Namjoon – sunbaenim." Somi – ssi spoke up for the group.
"Where are you girls off to?" Jin – oppa inquired.
"We're on our way to the dance room. Bang PD – nim gave us a special assignment." Feng Jiu said secretively.
"Waah and what special assignment would that be?" Jimin – oppa curiously asked.
"You'll just have to wait and see." Haru – unni replied cheekily.
Bangtan let out an intrigued gasp.
"So how are you doing Y/N?" Tae suddenly asked to the chagrin of the other members.
"Dude, not cool!" Hobi – oppa chastised him.
"What?"
"It's okay Hobi – oppa. I don't mind." I cut in. "I'm doing better now Tae. Thanks for asking."
"Are you sure?" Tae asked again.
"Positive."
"That's a relief then." Tae said looking at ease.
"Noon-" Jungkook piped up but I cut him off.
"Well then, I'm sure you guys are busy. We'll be on our way then, right unnis?" I shot my unnis a pleading gaze and thankfully they caught on.
"R – right." Somi – unni came to the rescue. "We'll get going then. If you'll excuse us." We bowed hastily and sidestepped towards the dance room. I was in a rush when I felt my arm being yanked suddenly and I got rooted to the spot.
Hoy! (Hey!)
I turned my head in annoyance to the offending person and saw Jungkook's bunny eyes filled with guilt and remorse. I felt my anger spike up. Call me numb but I'm not falling for that.
He looked unsure and small and any other moment I might have felt sorry for him but not now.
"N – noona. N – noona." He stuttered. "I – I'm sorry. I'm really sorry."
I yanked my arm from his grip and scoffed. "Save it Jungkook. Save it for someone who cares."
I turned on my heel and left.
Jungkook's POV
I watched Noona's retreating form with unease and sorrow in my heart. I hung my head and sighed.
She's right you know Kookie. Anything you say now will do nothing to lessen any of what she went through. Pabo!
Hobi – hyung clapped my back reassuringly. "Come on, Jungkookie. Bang PD – nim's waiting."
With a final sigh, I turned around and went with the rest of my hyungs to see Bang PD – nim. We arrived at the conference room to see that he was already there, seated at the head of the table, with a glowering expression. I gulped nervously as the members and I shuffled to sit down.
There was a palpable silence in the room as we waited for PD – nim to say something.
Finally, he inhaled through his nose and fixed me with his most fiercesome glare. "I'm disappointed in you Jeon Jungkook."
I knew this was coming. Sejin – hyung told us earlier that PD – nim was meeting us today and so I prepared myself for a scolding. But, hearing it right from PD – nim's mouth with such disappointment, hurt a hundred times more. I could feel the guilt and the remorse dig deeper as his words rung over and over in my head.
"I'm sorry Bang PD – nim. I'm really sorry." I bowed deeply.
"Really, Jungkook – ah. What. Were. You. Thinking?" He ground out each word as frustration, anger and disappointment rolled off him in waves.
"You've been in this industry for five years now. That basically makes you a veteran! You know, you know the kind of scrutiny an idol's life has. Why did you have to do such a foolish thing in such an inappropriate place? And why did you have to drag Y/N into this? Explain Jeon Jungkook. Now."
I sighed, clasped my hands on the table and looked him straight in the eye.
"It was all meant to be a harmless prank PD – nim. I was just teasing Noona. I didn't expect it to get out of hand. I deeply apologize for what I've done. I swear it won't happen again."
"It better not, Jeon Jungkook, or you'll get more than a scolding." He warned with venom in his eyes. "You almost cost a poor girl her future, Jungkook – ah. Did you know she wasn't supposed to be exposed to the public unless I tell her to? It's in her contract. She was doing so well at being discreet until you went and ruined it for her."
Oh god. Jeon Jungkook neo pabo! I'm sorry Noona.
I leaned my head on my clasped hands as Bang PD – nim continued to throw my mistake to my face over and over again. "It's okay to pull pranks Jungkook – ah. I know that's your specialty. But at some point you have to draw the line on what's acceptable and what's not. You went too far this time, Jungkook – ah. You'll do well to reflect on your actions."
I bowed my head even more deeply this time. "Ne Bang PD – nim. I understand. I will do as you say."
Namjoon – hyung who was beside me, slung his arm comfortingly over my shoulder and I nodded to him in thanks.
Bang PD – nim sighed audibly before turning his reproving look to the rest of my hyungs who shrunk back in fear. "As for you guys, don't think you're off the hook yet. You went along with him so you're also to blame." He turned to Namjoon – hyung who flinched. "Namjoon – ah care to explain what happened?"
Namjoon – hyung licked his lips nervously. "I'm sorry PD – nim. I should have been keener on keeping Kookie in check. I thought it would be just one of his usual pranks. It won't happen again, right Jungkookie?" He looked at me meaningfully and I just nodded morosely.
"Right guys?" He asked the rest of the members who chorused their assent.
Bang PD – nim rubbed his hand on his face as he sighed exasperatedly. "Aigoo. What am I to do with you guys?" He muttered to himself. I glanced to Namjoon – hyung who just shrugged confusedly. We waited for Bang PD – nim to calm down. When he finally did he had his usual calm, cheery aura as he gave us a tired smile.
"Just remember guys in everything you do be conscious and be careful. As idols, you have a lot more influence than you realize, do you understand?"
"Ne!" we replied with conviction
"Okay then now that we have that settled I have another thing I need to say to you. As you may or may not know, the girls will have been with us for a month now in just three days and that means…"
"They'll have their monthly evaluation!" V – hyung raised his hand up as he suddenly interjected.
"Correct Taehyung – ah. And since you're one of the only two groups the company is managing I want you to watch their performance with me."
A chorus of awe resounded around the table as the news hit us.
Yoongi – hyung inquired then. "Will we be evaluating with you?"
"No. I will be the one to 'grade' them. You'll just be there to give feedback and criticism as to how they can improve."
Yoongi – hyung nodded thoughtfully.
"What song are they going to sing?" Jimin – hyung asked next.
"I don't know yet. We'll have to see on the day of the evaluation. But I have instructed them to pick a song that's suitable for a sing and dance performance."
"Waaah. Do you think they'll cover one of our songs?" Hobi – hyung murmured curiously to Jin – hyung beside him.
"I'm not sure. But that would be really cool to see! I hope they do!" Jin – hyung replied excitedly.
That would be cool. I wonder how Noona will react to that though.
Bang PD – nim smiled at them knowingly. "That's up to their discretion. But I agree, that would be interesting to see."
The rest of the meeting carried on with most of the members agreeing that the girls will most likely be singing one of our songs and placing a bet as to which song it will be.
"I bet 50 won that they'll be doing Boy In Luv." Hobi – hyung announced proudly. "The choreography is pretty challenging and I know the girls love a challenge."
Yoongi – hyung bet on Boy In Luv as well.
"No way! They'll choose Spring Day. It's a beautiful and light and it's easy." Jin – hyung argued.
V – hyung also chose Spring Day.
"Well I for one think they'll pick Blood, Sweat and Tears just to rub to our faces just how good they've gotten since that dance battle." Namjoon – hyung chuckled.
Jimin – hyung went with his pick.
Well it does make sense.
Apparently, the other members thought so too as they murmured their agreement.
"What about you Kookie? What do you think?"
I thought long and hard. The overall appeal and attitude of the group, plus their skill set and it dawned on me.
"I think they'll go with Not Today. The choreography is fairly easy but still filled with spunk and attitude and I think the song will fit them well."
The other members nodded thoughtfully.
"I think I'll go with Jungkook on this one." Bang PD – nim snickered and met my gaze with mirth in his. Uncharacteristically, I flinched slightly as his earlier words registered in my mind again. I knew he got over it but that did little to ease the feelings of guilt, remorse and frustration that had buried deep within me. I was laughing and cheerful in the outside.
Inside? I was a mess.
I remained a mess even after the meeting ended until our dance rehearsals when I was even more focused and subdued than usual. It caught Jiminie – hyung's attention as he sat by me during our break.
"Jungkookie you okay?" He asked with a worried frown.
"Hyung, I don't know what to do. I want to apologize to Noona but she refuses to talk to me." I whined pitifully after I wiped the sweat from my brow.
He pursed his lips thoughtfully as he came up with a reply. "Just give her time. Just a day has passed and I'm sure she's still sorting through her feelings. I'm sure it'll be alright."
"But what if it doesn't turn alright? What if she doesn't want to be my friend again? I… I can't take that hyung. I just can't." My voice broke as I fought back tears. Just the thought of losing Noona's friendship cut the air from my lungs and clenched my heart.
"I… I don't know Jungkookie." Jiminie – hyung rubbed his neck awkwardly. "I guess we can only hope."
I scoffed and leaned back against the wall. "Thanks a lot hyung. That was real helpful."
He looked indignant. "Yah! It's not like I've had much experience with women and their emotions!"
"Well I don't either! So what are we to do now?"
"Aish this punk." He hit me on the back of my head.
"Yah hyung! That hurt!"
"You need to man up Kookie! Stop wallowing in misery like a baby and do something! You say you don't want to lose her friendship? Then think of ways to make it up to her!" He said with such conviction that I could only look at him openmouthed.
His sudden outburst alerted the other members and they came forward.
"Yah what's going on?" Namjoon – hyung asked.
Jimin – hyung sighed exasperatedly. "Kookie's being a baby again."
"Yah!"
"You are! He's whining that Y/N's not talking to him and he wants to make it up to her but he doesn't know how."
"So what'd you tell him?" Yoongi – hyung asked in mild curiousity.
"I told him to man up and just think of different ways."
"Wah. That's rich coming from you Jimin – ah." V – hyung snickered earning a loud slap from Jimin – hyung.
"Ow!"
"Hyungs, can we focus please?" I urged them with a roll of my eyes.
Namjoon – hyung pondered quickly. "Hmm. How about this? Remember that bet earlier? If you win we'll help you. If you don't, you think of ways yourself and we'll just cheer you on. Call?" He stretched out his hand for a shake.
That's actually not bad, Jungkookie.
I pondered for a bit then sighed begrudgingly. "Call."
Y/N's POV
"So girls." Somi – unni began. "Any suggestions as to what song we're performing?"
We were slumped in a circle in the middle of the dance room. The dance practice doesn't start until 1 in the afternoon so we had plenty of time to plan thoroughly for the upcoming evaluation.
Three days, huh? Bang PD – nim I'm not sure if you're genius or crazy.
Is that really what you shoud be worried about? Shouldn't you be more worried that the punk will be there?
Shut up! I don't want to think about that. It just makes my blood boil! I need to focus if I want to do well. This isn't just for me, it's for my unnis and I don't want to fail them.
You better stick to your word Y/N.
You bet I am!
"Hmm. What about a BTS song? BTS will be there right? What about 'Blood, Sweat and Tears'?" I heard Haru – unni say. "We know the choreography by heart and it'll be a good way to show them our improvement."
Somi – unni nodded as she considered this but Feng Jiu – unni just shook her head.
"I think they'll be expecting that. We need something different. Something they won't expect us to do."
"'Boy in Luv', then? That's pretty unexpected considering our skill set." Somi – unni suggested.
"That is unexpected but in just three days? I doubt it." Feng Jiu – unni disagreed with a frown.
My unnis sighed in frustration as they racked their heads for the perfect BTS song.
Hmm. Different. Unexpected. Something doable but still impactful. Oh I know!
I raised my hand like a student asking for recognition.
"Ne, Y/N?" Somi – unni answered.
"How about 'Not Today' ?" The choreography is doable and the song splits up perfectly for the four of us."
My unnis pondered over this with Feng Jiu – unni slowly nodding in agreement. "That's actually pretty good, maknae. I say go for 'Not Today'. What about you guys?" She asked Haru – unni and Somi – unni.
"I'm cool with that. 'Not Today' is actually one of my favorite BTS songs." Haru – unni giggled.
"I like 'Not Today' as well. Sure! Let's go for it!" Somi – unni cheerfully replied.
"Okay then 'Not Today' it is!" Feng Jiu – unni announced extra cheerily.
"We should probably split the parts up while we're at it." Somi – unni said as she scrolled through her phone.
"True. But how do we split it?" Haru – unni wondered.
"Well, there are four of us and seven of them. That means three members have two parts while one has only one." Feng Jiu – unni supplied.
Somi – unni brought her phone forward. "Here are the lyrics to the song. We should base our parts on this."
Feng Jiu – unni glanced at the screen as she read through the parts. Then she looked at each of us then went back to the screen again, the gears turning her mind. "Okay, how's this? I'll take RM – ssi's part. I can rap a little bit. Haru you take Suga – ssi and J – Hope – ssi's roles. Your rap skills can totally handle two rappers. Somi – ssi you'll have V – ssi and Jimin – ssi's position. And Y/N you'll have Jungkook – ssi and Jin – ssi's lines. You all okay with that?"
Haru – unni and Somi – unni nodded in satisfaction with the division of the parts and I was also about to agree when it just sunk it that I would have the punk's part.
"Wait why do I have to have the punk's part?" I protested. "Somi – unni switch with me please!"
"Sorry maknae. I can't do main vocal."
"B – b – but Feng Jiu unniiiii." I whined as I turned to the calmest and most collected member of the group.
"Sorry our maknae, but majority wins. Plus your voice is totally suited for the main vocal. I know you'll kill it."
If the thought of singing his parts doesn't kill me first.
Just then, Shin seonsaengnim arrived and we promptly began our rehearsal.
The next three days were hell to say the least. We spent them alternating between dance and vocal rehearsals. I was still miffed at first for being assigned to Jungkook's part but I eventually realized I actually do suit the role of main vocal so I just sucked it up.
It's for the performance anyway so just own it Y/N!
There were tough times of course especially when we had to do a part of the choreography repetitively just to perfect it. Or when we had to sing a part of the song all over again to get the proper flow and pitch. But all in all, it was tough, tiring but fun. I bonded more with my unnis and I found out I had more in common with them than I first thought. I discovered Haru – unni and I shared a love for anime and we promised each other we'll marathon a few when we had more free time. Feng Jiu – unni told me she's adores cats and I reassured her she can borrow the few cat plushies I own, anytime. And of course Somi – unni told me she liked sob – fest movies and I snickered and said we could watch and cry together whenever she wants to.
It all seemed to pass by in a blur of sweat, pants and aches until the day of the evaluation came. We woke up early and went straight to the concert hall several blocks away from Big Hit. Upon arriving, we were immediately whisked away to hair and make – up which I initially shuddered at. But then the head stylist Unni smiled at me and said. "Don't worry. We won't do anything too drastic. We'll put just enough make – up to highlight your features."
I sighed in relief then smiled at her to continue. I dozed in and out before I felt a light tap on my shoulder. I opened my eyes and looked at the mirror in shock.
Wow.
"So what do you think?" Head stylist Unni smiled at my reflection.
"I – I think it's awesome. Thank you." I smiled at her gratefully.
She winked at me. "You're welcome." She sauntered over to check on the rest of my unnis while I continued to look at my reflection.
It still looked like me. But a hundred million times better.
My eyes looked bigger and more intriguing as they were lined with eyeliner that flicked a bit at the edges. Like a cat?
Light brown eye shadow covered my peepers and framed with thick and long lashes made even more pronounced by mascara. My lips were stained with a coral brown shade that seemed to make my morena skin glow.
But the best part? It was the hair. They braided it in a half up – half down fashion and left the rest naturally straight. It looked cool and hip.
Whoa. I look good. And I didn't think the day would come that I'd admit it to myself. Make – up Unni is talented!
Soon all of us were done with hair and make – up and soon got up to get dressed. Somi – unni had on an oversized white tee with ripped denim overalls and combat boots. Haru – unni was wearing a sparkly pink shirt with GLAM plastered on the front, a white bomber jacket, cut – off denim shorts and black boots. Feng Jiu – unni was decked out in a gray long – sleeved crop top, a leather vest, black leggings and black booties. I was in a loose black shirt with SWAG in big white letters at the front, a royal blue denim jacket, ripped jeans and black and white sneakers.
"Whoa we look good don't we?" Somi – unni squealed excitedly.
"Yes we do! Unni you look so cute!" Haru – unni gushed.
"You look even better! I love your top and your hair!" Haru – unnis pink locks were curled wildly making her look very glamorously cute.
I turned to Feng Jiu – unni beside me who was watching the exchange with a wry grin and a shake of her head.
"You're not much of a squealer are you?" I teased her.
"Goodness, no! The idea is appalling." She said with dripping sarcasm that I choked on a laugh.
"Aigoo Unni. But seriously though, you look really sexy." I complimented her. And she did. The black leggings and high heeled booties combo made her legs look a mile longer.
"Thanks. You look very tough and oozing with swag." She nodded towards my shirt and I chuckled.
"Thank you. I think the stylists showed our personalities well with our outfits. And they match well with each other."
She nodded with a smile when the Mi Kyung – unni came lumbering towards us. "Get ready girls. We'll start in five minutes."
All at once a feeling or dread enveloped me. I breathed deeply.
Come on Y/N! You can do this!
We all took a deep breath and shuffled backstage. Moments later, a bunch of staff came and placed our mics and our earpieces in place. They were done in a jiffy and we peeked around the curtain to see that the audience area was pitch black.
"Looks like they'll only turn on the lights once we start performing." Somi – unni whispered.
"You think Bangtan and PD – nim are there already?" Haru – unni asked.
"Maybe." Feng Jiu – unni replied with a shrug.
Mi Kyung unni appeared at the corner and signaled for us to proceed to the center.
"All right girls here goes nothing. Fighting!" Somi – unni whispered fiercely as she went in for a fist bump.
"Fighting!" we echoed and bumped our fists together.
We strode to the back portion of the stage and held our positions as the music began to play.
Feng Jiu – unni sauntered forward oozing with fierceness and power.
All the underdogs in the world
A day may come when we lose
But it is not today
Today we fight!
Haru – unni twisted forward and started rapping like the legend she was.
No not today
Someday, the flowers will wither
But no not today
But today's not the day
No no not today
Feng Jiu – unni came in with her part again and exchanged a wink with Haru – unni in the process. Then as my part drew closer I drew a ragged breath.
It's your time to shine Y/N! Go smash it!
Feng Jiu – unni caught my eye and I came in with all the swag I could muster.
If you can't fly, run
I sang as I danced Jungkook's solo.
Today we will survive
Somi – unni echoed beside me.
If you can't run, walk
I continued.
Today we will survive.
Somi – unni took over with Jimin – oppa's part.
If you can't walk, crawl
Even if you have to crawl, gear up
I took over again before the chorus went up and we all let loose with our voices and with our moves. The momentum only continued to build from that as we all gave our best with each of parts. Shortly, the bridge part came and we killed it even more.
Break the glass ceiling that traps you
I sang my heart out
Turn it up! (turn it up!)
Burn it up! (burn it up!)
Feng Jiu – unni chorused after me.
Till the day of victory (fight!)
Don't kneel, don't break down
She and I sang together
That's (do) not today!
All of us sang with our bodies and voices hyping it up to the last chorus.
We danced with synchronicity and power and fierceness that I could feel it deep within my bones and unto the wide black oblivion before us.
Point, aim, shoot!
I sang the last line as I held a pose, as the last notes of the song faded away. Finally the lights all throughout the hall turned on and I could see the stunned faces of Bangtan and Bang PD – nim.
Oh gosh please let those be happy, impressed stunned faces.
Jungkook's POV
I settled in between Namjoon – hyung and Hobi – hyung in the big concert hall while we waited for Bang PD – nim to arrive. We meant to arrive early as we wanted to wish the girls luck but it turned out we weren't allowed to see them until the after the actual performance. It was strange but we just shrugged and went to our seats to wait instead.
"What do you think they're going to perform? Are you holding out to your win?" Namjoon – hyung whispered beside me.
I shrugged unsure. "I have no idea hyung. But I do hope they do what I thought they'd do." I smirked at him. "I wanna win of course."
"Aish, this kid." Namjoon – hyung just shook his head in mirth.
Moments later Bang PD – nim arrived and we bowed to him in greeting. Shortly after, a staff handed us and Bang PD - nim wireless mics and we accepted them with confused expressions.
"What's this for?" V – hyung asked.
"You'll need that for when the performance is over." The staff replied with a wink then scurried off to do probably do some finishing touches.
"When is it going to start? I hate being in the dark." Jin – hyung complained.
Suddenly he yelped. "Who was that?"
"That was me you, dumbass." Yoongi – hyung griped. "I meant to put my hand on the armrest and accidently touched you. Stop being such a baby."
"Yah! I'm still your hyung!"
"Yeah a hyung that's still a baby."
Suddenly the stage lit up with Feng Jiu – ssi in the middle with her head down. Namjoon – hyung shushed the rest of the members.
The music began and she started rapping.
All the underdogs in the world
A day may come when we lose
But it is not today
Today we fight!
I got it right! They did 'Not Today'!
"It seems you've won Kookie." Namjoon – hyung chuckled lightly.
"I'm just born lucky." I whispered haughtily and earned a smack to the arm from hyung.
"Remember your promise, hyung." I reminded him and he gave me the side – eye.
"Of course! I always keep my promises."
Just then Haru – ssi stepped in and displayed her god – level rap skills.
No not today
Someday, the flowers will wither
But no not today
But today's not the day
"Hmm. She's definitely gotten a lot better." Yoongi – hyung commented a few seats from where I was.
"Uh – huh." Jin – hyung murmured beside him.
Feng Jiu – ssi switched parts with Haru – ssi and went back to Namjoon – hyung's part.
"What do you think, hyung?" I asked him.
"She's pretty good. I mean not on the same level of Haru – ssi's but she still got skills."
I nodded in agreement. She did have considerable skill.
She finished rapping and I waited with anticipation for the person who would take my part.
Noona sauntered forward and started singing and dancing with swag and power.
If you can't fly, run
And my jaw fell open as I fought down a blush.
Wait why am I blushing? Get it together Jungkook!
"Waah Jungkookie your Noona has your part!" Hobi – hyung squealed excitedly. "Wait are you blushing?" He exclaimed incredulously and it drew the attention of my other hyungs.
"No I'm not!"
"Yes you are. Even with just the lights on stage, I can see your ears burning." V – hyung smirked.
"Aigoo. Does our baby maknae have a crush on his Noona?" Jin – hyung teased in a sing – songy voice.
"No I do not and I'm not a baby!"
"Will you guys shut up? I'm trying to watch here." Yoongi – hyung grumbled.
We murmured our apologies and turned our attention back onstage where Noona just finished her dance and Somi – ssi took over with Jimin – hyung's part.
"Oh my gosh, her voice suits my part really well." Jimin – hyung squealed.
"Well duh you and she have the same pitch, hyung. Sometimes I wonder if you were born a woman in your past life." V – hyung smirked and Jimin – hyung slapped him in the back of the head.
"Ow!"
I tuned them out as I focused instead on the performance. They were performing the chorus and Noona was front and center. Her movements were fluid yet dripping with infinite swag and force and attitude that I could not stop watching her. I thought back to the dance battle we first had and I could say that she has gotten leagues better. And apparently Hobi – hyung did too.
"Y/N improved a lot hasn't she Kook?"
"Yeah. I think all of them did."
And they did. Feng Jiu - ssi was even more graceful and sinuous. Somi – ssi was more refined and exact. Haru – ssi was more confident and more sure. And Noona was… well Noona only a much more upgraded version of her.
"True. I mean even Haru – ssi looks like an experienced dancer now. It makes me so proud. Our hoobaes are growing up." He wiped imaginary tears from his eyes and I smacked him playfully.
The rest of the performance continued with the girls blowing our socks away if any of our whoops, squeals and shouts were anything to go by. At the last chorus we all decided to stand up and just jam alongside them.
Point, aim, shoot!
Noona sang the last line and held her pose. Instantly, the lights in the audience area lit up and I could see my own stunned expression reflected on my hyungs'. There was a momentary stunned silence filled before our loud chorus of whoops coupled with the clapping of our hands reverberated around the hall. Even Bang PD – nim smiled widely as he gave his own applause.
The girls gave exhilarated smiles as they held hands and bowed deeply. They went to the center and lined up directly under the lights and that was when I saw clearly how beautiful Noona looked. She had on light make – up that further enhanced her exotic features. Her eyes looked bigger and more expressive framed under long, thick lashes. Her lips were a coral brown color that made her brown skin glisten. And her hair was braided while the rest were left down in straight strands.
I took this all in as I fought to conceal yet another blush.
"Wahh look Kookie's blushing again!" Hobi – hyung snickered again.
"Hyung!"
"Yah Jungkookie would you stop? You're acting like a pubescent boy." Yoongi – hyung smirked.
"Shut up!"
Just then Bang PD – nim began to speak and we all promptly shut up.
"Well girls that was a splendid performance! You've all improved greatly and as your PD – nim I can only be proud." He said warmly to the joy of Noona and the others who smiled gratefully.
"Keep on doing the great work. I'm excited to see how you girls will evolve until the day of your debut."
"Ne Bang PD – nim. Thank you!" They said in unison as they bowed in respect.
Smiling, PD – nim turned to us. "Now then do you boys have anything else to say?"
We looked at each other still quite at a loss with what just occurred. Yoongi – hyung just shrugged and chose to speak up first.
"You girls did well." He said into the mic. "It was the first time I saw females covering that song and it was definitely unnerving at first but now that I see what you did, it actually works. You've definitely added female toughness to the song and I'm impressed."
We nodded in agreement and clapped politely as the girls bowed again in gratitude.
Jin – hyung came next. "Amazing! Wow beautiful! I love it!" He said suddenly in English to the amusement of the other members and to the girls onstage who were graciously holding back their laughter.
V – hyung commented after him. "I like your outfit Haru – ssi. Can I borrow it sometime?" Jin – hyung smacked him as he laughed in his windshield-y way, along with the rest of us after that.
Jimin – hyung was next. "Somi – ssi your vocals are on point. And I loved how you put your own spin on the adlibs. A little tip though, try to space your breaths more so you don't sound too breathy when you do them. Okay?" He had his eye smile on making Somi – ssi fumble for a bit before nodding thoughtfully and smiling.
Hobi – hyung gave his thoughts afterwards. "I agree with Yoongi – hyung. I loved how you girls gave a somewhat feminine vibe to the performance without taking away the swag from it. And I especially love how you executed the choreography for the chorus." He paused. "Haru – ssi."
"Ne?" Her shrill voice echoed in the room.
"Your dancing is amazing. I'm glad you have the confidence now. Good job!" He finished with a sunny smile.
Haru – ssi flustered for a bit before bowing deeply in thanks.
It was down to Namjoon – hyung and me and gestured for him to go ahead. He nodded and went to speak.
"I think everyone else mentioned what could be mentioned. It was a pretty spot on performance for me. I just have a question. How did you divide the parts among yourselves?"
The girls shared looks with each other before Feng Jiu – unni spoke up. "We split it up according to each person's skill set. Haru has two rapping parts since she's the best rapper in the group. I took one because I can rap but it's not really my best skill. Y/N has Jungkook – ssi and Jin – ssi's parts because her voice is quite similar with them. The same can be said for Somi – unni."
Namjoon – hyung nodded. "I see. Well, it was perfectly split up. I think each of you girls killed our parts. Congratulations!"
"Thank you!" The girls chorused as they bowed again.
Namjoon – hyung nudged me. "Kookie it's your turn."
Suddenly I felt like my throat was filled with sand so I gulped it down. I looked towards Noona's direction and I swore I could see her gaze become a fraction frosty.
"U – uh. I – uh…" I looked helplessly at Namjoon – hyung who urged me to go on with a small smile.
"Y – you girls were great." I managed lamely.
Nice Jungkook. You sure are eloquent!
I cleared my throat. "Noona." She flinched at the sound of my voice and I felt a pang of pain shoot across me.
"You did really well. I think you may have done my part better. You have more swag than I do." I chuckled with a shake of my head. "Good job. All of you, good job."
Noona still had that frosty glare on but nevertheless she bowed in gratitude along with her unnis.
Bang PD – nim clapped his hands together. "Once again, congratulations ladies. You'll know your exact results tomorrow. For now get dressed and get some rest."
"Ne PD – nim. Thank you!"
PD – nim smiled at them then stood up to go. "I'll be on my way then. I still have a ton of meetings lined up. Annyeong."
We bowed to him as he exited the hall. I turned to the stage again to see that the girls have exited already.
Crap. I meant to talk to Noona.
I was so focused on the empty stage that I didn't notice my hyungs were smirking at me.
"So," Namjoon – hyung began. "It seems you win Jungkookie. We are now at your service." He bowed gallantly and I felt a smirk fill up my face.
"You guys owe me 50 each and you're going to help me with Noona as promised." I reminded them.
"Call." They chorused back.
"Well then, what are you planning to do now?" Jin – hyung asked.
I blew an exasperated breath. "Try to talk to her again. If it doesn't work again, we'll go to plan B."
"Perfect. We wanted to congratulate the girls as well. Let's go." Hobi – hyung said and we all went to the dressing room where we caught the girls in the process of having their make – up removed. At our arrival, they immediately stood up and bowed in greeting. Noona shot me a glare the moment she rose and I shrunk back.
"Annyeonghaseyo Bangtan – sunbaenim." Somi – ssi greeted respectfully in behalf of the group.
"Aish drop the sunbaenim. It makes us feel old." Namjoon – hyung protested.
"Bangtan – ssi then?" Feng Jiu – ssi asked with a confused tilt of her head.
"That's even worse." Jin – hyung complained. "Just oppa will do. Or just our first names if you're older or the same age as us."
The girls looked at each other confusedly. "Pardon?" Haru – ssi questioned.
"What Namjoonie and Jin – hyung meant to say is to drop the formalities. Y/N calls us oppa so it's only fair you call us that too." Hobi – oppa clarified.
"Ah n – ne. I understand Jin – oppa, Hobi – ya." Somi – unni answered hesitantly.
"That's better. See it wasn't so hard was it? We're family now so let's get comfortable with each other." Jin – hyung assured with a smile.
"In that case, just call us by our names or noona as well." Feng Jiu – ssi countered with a small smile.
"Call!" V – hyung showed his boxy smile as he held a thumbs up and the other members and I expressed our agreement
"Speaking of which, Haru, I'll call you Haru 'kay?" Jin – hyung asked Haru - noona to which Haru – noona nodded emphatically. "I wanted to ask you for the recipe of that dessert you had last time. Do you mind writing it down?" He asked as he guided Haru – noona to the corner. Pretty soon the other members went in groups to talk with the other girls until it was only me and Noona who stood face to face.
Her glare returned to its usual heat and I tried my best not to let it get to me. "N – noona can we talk?"
She promptly ignored.
"Somi – unni I'm going to the restroom." She called out before sauntering angrily out the door.
Aish Noona!
I twisted on my heel and followed her out the door. She walked fast as she was across the lobby already before I grabbed her arm and yanked it hard.
"Aray!" (Ouch!) She screamed in annoyance in Filipino. I noticed that she blurts things out in Filipino when she's overcome with intense emotions.
"Yah! Jeon Jungkook what's the deal?" She fixed me with her most murderous glare and I matched it with a level gaze. I was tired of this.
"Noona, why can't you forgive me? I've left you calls but you ignored them. I try to talk to you but you ignore me. What should I do to make you forgive me?" I implored.
She scoffed. "You should ask yourself that question Jeon Jungkook. Besides, if sorry could fix everything then why is there a need for police or laws?"
Wait that sounded oddly familiar. Was that from a k – drama.
"Noona, if you would just liste-"
"Look, I appreciate you complimenting me earlier. I really do. But I don't want to listen to whatever you say. Not today. And certainly not anytime sooner." She ground out before yanking her arm yet again from my grasp.
"If you'll excuse me Jeon Jungkook – ssi." She turned on her heel and walked in long strides to who knows where.
I sighed, crouched down to the floor and rubbed my face tiredly.
Aish. What do I do now?
Author's Note: Drama, drama, dramaaaa.
Thoughts? Reactions? Favorite moments?
My and HugsHealththeSoul's favorite was the boys teasing Kookie about blushing. That was really cute and it was a lot of fun to write. ^_^
Until next time!
PS. Bonus points to you if you can guess the K - Drama I hinted at in this chapter ;)