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kimbappykidding · 1 year

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Imagine being nervous around D.O. because of his angry reputation and having no idea D.O. has a soft spot for you because he has a crush on you

Exo's Kai was your cousin and he was one year younger than you. You were both idols and being family and similar ages, interacted a lot. You saw each other often and were always at each other's houses, hanging out with the other's members and that was how Kai quickly noticed some things. D.O. was into you! His eyes would go to you when you entered a room and even though he wasn't obvious he'd follow what you were saying and was very aware of you. He'd tell Baekhyun to knock it off if he was messing with you and was sweetly protective of you. Drunk D.O. was even more obvious and would stare at you the way a prince looks at a Disney princess. Based on all this, Kai picked up on D.O.'s crush on your pretty much immediately and did everything in his power to get the two of you together but it was hard. For one, D.O. wouldn't outwardly admit he had a thing for you. Anytime Kai mentioned it he gave him a death glare and point-blank refused to engage in the conversation. Meanwhile, you were too nervous to say more than a few words to D.O. Kai tried talking him up to you and encouraging a conversation but frankly, you avoided D.O. and Kai had no idea why. D.O. was everything you wanted in a man but you just couldn't see it. So one day he asked you why you weren't comfortable around D.O. "I just get nervous around him Kai, I've seen him yell at Chanyeol and it scared me". Kai paused "wait when was this?". "At Sehun's 25 birthday party". Kai's eyes widened "but that was ages ago when you first started coming around". You nodded "I know, that was the first time I met him and it just stuck with me. I'd had a rough week and my manager had yelled at me all day so when he yelled it scared me and I don't know that's just always kind of stuck". What neither of you knew was D.O. was outside the room listening and folded his hands to stop them from shaking. He felt awful. He didn't even remember the party you were talking about but it sounded like him.

"Then I don't know, he can sometimes look angry and intimidating and I can never tell if he hates me or not" you continued. Kai shook his head almost laughing "he definitely doesn't hate you and I promise D.O. is not that scary. He's a bit tougher than say...Baekhyun but he's a softie really. You just have to talk to him to see it". You bit your lip "I'm just not sure" and Kai sighed "fine but just be open-minded yeah?" he asked. You nodded "okay I will be" but Kai didn't notice much change in your behaviour. So you were too swayed by an interaction with D.O. almost a year ago and D.O. wasn't the type to just insert himself into a conversation or go up to a girl he didn't know very well and start talking so despite his crush nothing happened...but Kai was determined to change that.

You had dinner at Kai's often but when he found out all his members would be out except D.O. he was very excited. Kai didn't say anything to you and welcomed you like usual. You were both playing Mario kart when he pretended to get a phone call from Suho. He then told you there was some problem and he had to go to the studio. "I'll be back as soon as I can and D.O. can keep you company, I've told him the situation" he explained. He'd told D.O. his friend was having an emergency and he had to go and had purposefully asked him to be welcoming to you but he needn't have told D.O. that. D.O. remembered the conversation he overheard and he wanted to put some things straight. D.O. figured a pretty good way to create a welcoming vibe was to bake. Everybody loved brownies and what said I'm not scary better than chocolate and raspberries? So D.O. got to work and you eventually came to find him in the kitchen, the nice smell wafting out to you. "Hi" you said coming into the room and D.O. smiled at you "hi Y/n, how are you?". You paused at his friendly voice but told him you were good and enquired how he was. "I'm good" D.O. told you "thanks for asking, I've made cupcakes if you want one". "Really?" you asked and D.O. nodded "of course". "Thanks" you said taking one and sitting down. "Do you like cooking?" you asked and D.O. paused. This was the first time you'd asked him a question unprompted and embarassed him how much that pleased him. "Erm yeah I really enjoy it. I like how it's a really practical hobby and you can make any dish your own". You nodded "it's hard to do though...I burn everything I make even stuff that goes in the microwave". D.O. laughed "really? How". "Well I get confused with all the buttons and forget how long it needs to be in for...it's a mess". D.O. laughed "well I was going to cook dinner tonight and if you want I can show you some things?". You paused "are you sure? I'm a pretty bad student". D.O. remembered what he'd overheard that day and smiled "don't worry I promise not to get annoyed or angry". You searched his face for a few moments before nodding "okay" and came to stand beside him "so what's first?". Kai returned home a few hours later with all his members and he was practically bouncing of the walls to see you and D.O. cooking dinner together. You announced the two of you had made dinner and D.O. was just helping you with the finishing touches. So you disappeared into the kitchen together and Kai watched you pretending not to. You looked so comfortable around D.O. now and D.O. himself was acting like a giant teddy bear. Dinner was served and you and D.O. fluttered around like nervous parents. You seemed especially worried that the food was edible but the boys soon told you it was delicious and you beamed. D.O. congratulated you and only then did the two of you sit down and eat. You sat together and Kai could see how happy D.O. was...which of course the other guys noticed too. "Is it just me or is D.O. glowing?" Baekhyun asked "anytime y/n looks at him he lights up". Sehun laughed "yeah now that you mention it, is he into her?". Chanyeol smirked "if he's not he's doing a good job of pretending". "They look good together" Lay said and Suho nodded "I was just thinking that". D.O. looked up and saw them all staring. His smile fell away and he glared at their smiles before turning back to you. "Awww pouty D.O. is the cutest" Baekhyun grinned. Kai popped a delicious piece of chicken into his mouth and considered this a huge success. And it was! After that the two of you grew closer and closer. Now D.O. would join you on your cousin days and Kai adored the way D.O. acted around you. He still wouldn't admit he had a thing for you but he also stopped denying it because all the guys teased him for it because he was just SO obvious. One night you were here late so it had gone dark by the time you were heading home. You only lived around the corner but D.O. walked you home just to make sure you were safe. Another time you were abroad for a few weeks and D.O. looked after all 5 of your house plants immaculately. Then when you heard D.O. wasn't going to be able to go home for his birthday you organised a small party and even baked a cake for him. Kai thought D.O. was going to pass out with pride when he heard you baked it yourself for him. D.O. didn't stop smiling the whole night and finally when the party was over Kai turned to him. "Still going to pretend you don't fancy my cousin?". In response D.O. just shook his head "I like her" and left the room. Kai squealed in delight. Now you were both aware of one another he just had to get you two together and he had the perfect opportunity...a wedding! Your joint cousin was getting married and the two of you had to be at the ceremony. You were stressing out because you'd just heard everyone had to have dates and Kai could've grinned at how perfect it was. "The wedding's in 2 weeks! How am I going to find a date on such short notice?". Kai smiled "Well why don't you ask D.O.?". You blushed "I...he's probably busy". Kai laughed "Have you forgot our cousin invited all of Exo and the boys are all going?" Kai asked. "But how do you know he hasn't asked someone else?". "Well let's ask him" Kai shrugged and yelled for D.O. "No don't! What if he doesn't want to?" you asked when D.O. appeared "what if I don't want to do what?". "Be Y/n's date" Kai said looking right at his friend. D.O. eye's widened and he blushed but luckily he was tanned enough to hide it. "To my cousin's wedding" you quickly clarified "I've just find out everyone in the family photos has to have a plus one but it's totally fine if you don't want to..." when D.O. shook his head "I don't mind, I'll be your date". "Really?" you asked and D.O. nodded "sure, it'll be fun" and you smiled hugging him "thanks D.O., I'll feel so much better with you over some random guy my mum would've got". D.O. smiled "no problem" and Kai had to hide his laughter at how dazed D.O. looked after you hugged him. So two weeks later the wedding rolled around and you, Kai and D.O. all travelled separately to the boys because you had to be there early. You checked into the hotel and then a few hours later were in the church for the ceremony. D.O. was the perfect date, he was polite, kind and seemed to always be there when you needed him. You cut your hand on one of the flowers and he just had a tissue for you. When the weather suddenly became rainy he was there with his jacket to cover you and whenever any family members asked if you were together he side-stepped the question without being rude. So by the time you made it to the reception you were so pleased D.O. was your date. He'd been perfect and you realised Kai had been right this entire time and you didn't know how to react. You vowed never to judge someone so quickly again and were having a really good time with D.O. Then you saw someone walk through the door and your smile dropped. D.O. noticed the change in your behaviour and how pale you'd gone but he couldn't work out why. He looked around the room and turned back to you "what is it? What's wrong?". You looked down and shook your head "nothing just my ex is here...Eun said he wouldn't be here but I guess he turned up". D.O. looked across the room and saw a guy watching you. "Do you want me to get security?" D.O. asked. You shook your head "no he'll just cause a scene. It should be fine, he probably won't come up to me because he doesn't know who you are and that'll intimidate him". D.O. nodded "okay then I'm not leaving your side". The smile you gave him was so amazing it have him the courage to go one better. "Actually how about we dance? There's no reason why you have to hide away and I'll make sure he comes nowhere near you". You seemed very surprised by D.O.'s request and he worried you'd say no when you nodded "I'd love to!". D.O. took your hand and led you to the sea of people. You were both adorably unsure around one another and took each other's hand delicately. D.O. gently put his hand on your waist and took the lead. You of course knew D.O. was an idol therefore, was experienced with dancing but it still took you by surprise how good he was! He took you around the floor effortlessly and it was very hot to see a guy like him be so good at dancing. You must've looked like you were having quite a lot of fun because you attracted attention from Eun. After dancing for a while you and D.O. grabbed a drink and headed outside to cool off. Eun followed you. Eun waited until you were halfway down the path before calling your name and you looked back and froze. “Shit” you said and D.O. saw where you were looking “do you want me to speak to him?”. You sighed “no just let’s stop and see what he has to say”. Eun caught up to you quickly and raised his hands “what no hello?”. “Hi Eun” you said and he looked you up and down “that’s a bit cold for a childhood friend”. You didn’t reply but he didn’t take the hint “you look good, have you lost weight?”. D.O. wanted to pummel him right then and there but as if sensing this you touched D.O.’s arm and looked at Eun “no I haven’t”. Eun looked you up and down again and made a surprised noise. “We’re going now, it was nice to see you” you said and turned to walk away. “So soon but we haven’t even caught up!” he called following you. “She said we’re done!” D.O. called but that angered Eun. “So who's this Y/n? Your boyfriend?" Eun replied. You shook your head and D.O. continued walking, ignoring him. "I don't owe you any explanation" you said and D.O. nodded "she doesn't, come on y/n" and he led you away but Eun followed. "If he's not your boyfriend then why were his hands all over you in there? If you're trying to make me jealous you should try harder" Eun called. D.O. shook his head "man this guy's an idiot". "What did you say!" Eun yelled and you tightened your grip on D.O.'s hand "come on let's just go back inside". D.O. was agreeing with you when Eun carried on. "I'm the idiot? You're the pathetic one y/n. Let's not forget you asked me out! You were the one chasing me Y/n. I have way more options than you and I was the best thing that ever happened to you but life finally started again when I was free of you". That's when D.O. lost it. "You have no clue what you're talking about! You came here, to her cousin's wedding to see her and she's the one who needs you?" D.O. asked yelling. Eun was slightly caught off guard by how D.O. had changed from a quiet sweet guy to a scary man ready to kick his ass. He went to reply but D.O. cut him off "no, you're done speaking and if you say another word I'll shut your mouth for you. Got it?" D.O. asked. You watched nervously, hoping D.O. wouldn't hit him if he made a smart comment but Eun was smarter than you gave him credit for. "Whatever" he muttered and walked away. Once he'd gone you felt better but turned to D.O. nervously. "Are you okay?" you asked and he nodded calming down "I'm fine...are you?". "I'm okay" you said cautiously and D.O. recalled your first impression of him and cursed himself for getting angry. "Y/n I'm so sorry for yelling at him like that and not just ignoring him like you said. I know you might think less of me now but I hope I can make that up to you". "Think less of you?" you asked “D.O. I couldn't think more of you! You defended me when you didn't have to and said things I wish I had the courage to say so thank you". D.O. blinked "you're thanking me? I was worried I'd made you nervous by raising my voice..." D.O. said but you shook your head "no I know you're safe so that didn't scare me". That was so nice for D.O. to hear he felt like dancing all over again. "But I don't think I want to go back to the party, so I'll head to my room". D.O. nodded "let me walk you" and you fell in step together. The hotel looked really pretty in the evening and the now quiet night made it feel like it was just the two of you in the world."Y/n just in case you aren't aware that guy is an asshole and you can do so much better than him. There are so many guys who would love to date you, who would treat you right and be there for you so please don't listen to that idiot". You laughed awkwardly and D.O. smiled "I'm serious! He didn't know what he was talking about, you were way too good for him". You didn't respond and when you turned D.O. realised you hadn't been laughing but were crying. "Ow y/n I'm so sorry..." he started when you cut him off "no it's okay. They're happy tears. Thank you. That was really sweet and I didn't expect it but I needed to hear that". "Of course!" D.O. said offering you a tissue and you took it. D.O. helped you sit down on a nearby bench and waited for you to stop crying. "I haven't dated since Eun and I've thought a lot of the stuff he said tonight about myself". D.O. shook his head furious "but none of that stuff was true! He was lucky to have you and you're far too good for him. Plus who cares if you chased him and it didn't work out? That just shows you're brave enough to go for what you want and make mistakes and that's one of the most admirable things in the world!". "It is?" you asked and D.O. nodded "totally...well that and not murdering a guy like Eun when you had so many opportunities". You laughed and D.O. smiled to see you looked happier. You both sat in silence for a while before you sighed "you know I just realised I've never asked about your love life, is it as bad as mine?". D.O. shrugged "well depends on what you mean by bad, if pretty non-existent counts then yeah it's bad". "You've never dated anyone?" you asked and D.O. paused "no there was one girl. We got together when we were 14, just kids really, and were together for 4 years...it got pretty serious but we were too young" he said "both of our lives were just taking off and we were changing as people. I wanted to keep trying but she broke it off and I guess the experience changed me. I'm of course glad when I look back on it, it was definitely the right thing to do but it made me more cautious and pessimistic. You might've realised I'm not exactly a ray of sunshine like Baekyun". You shook your head "you're plenty sunny to me, I always feel happy around you" and D.O. smiled "you do?". "I do" you nodded watching him and D.O. couldn't believe he had that effect on someone like you. You both stayed in that moment just gazing at one another for a few seconds before you blushed looking down. "Well I think whoever she is, she's probably kicking herself now to have lost you" you said and D.O.'s heart fluttered "thanks y/n". You smiled and gently squeezed his hand "thanks for telling me. I used to think you were so intimidating and scary and I'm so glad I got to know the real you". "I'm glad too" D.O. nodded "I know how I can come across so thanks for giving me a chance I guess?". "You never need to thank me for that" you said "I wish I'd have done it so much sooner". D.O. realised you were still holding his hand and looked down. You followed his gaze and dropped his hand "sorry! The alcohol and weeks of wedding stress are kicking in. I'll leave now before I do anything else embarrassing" and you disappeared. D.O. however didn't find it embarrassing at all. D.O. woke up the next morning feeling great! Which was hilarious as all his members were clutching their heads and moving slowly, nursing hangovers. After last night D.O. was in pretty good spirits and he still got goosebumps when he thought about everything you'd said to him. However one thing was bothering him. He'd mentioned how after his ex he'd become more cautious but he meant what he said about admiring people who went for what they wanted. It applied to him so much that he felt a bit like a hypocrite and so he knew he had to tell you he just didn't know when. Luckily you had a car ride back together so he could work that out then. D.O. was coming back with you because he had to be in the studio later today while his other members didn’t. So they were going to go film something and do some sightseeing which D.O. was upset to miss out on that for work of all things but when he realised he’d be coming back with you he warmed up to the idea. He was waiting for you by the front of the hotel when you appeared. You came around the corner and D.O. paused at how beautiful you looked. Your hair hung loose and you had no makeup on at all. You looked so naturally radiant his heart skipped a beat as he took you all in. "Are you ready?" you called and D.O. nodded re-discovering the ability to speak. "Yeah let me just put my stuff in the boot" he said and hid his face behind your car. The car ride was the most fun road trip D.O. had been on. With the members, there was always someone who was too loud or an elbow in his side or someone who wanted to play music D.O. hated but there was none of that with you. The car ride was so peaceful and just proved to him how well the two of you got along yet again. D.O. realised he just loved being around you and enjoyed seeing you happy. He adored that he could now make you smile and it was pretty much on his mind constantly. You stopped off at a cafe on the way back and got breakfast. You were both pretty happy and made the waitress laugh several times at your infectious happiness. When it came to paying the waitress had clearly taken a liking to you. "It's on the house for the young couple" she said "how long have you two been together?". D.O. went to reply you weren't together when you spoke first. "6 months, we met at work" you said and the waitress grinned "I thought you had that honeymoon period glow! But to be fair 6 months is a little late for that so the two of you must just be the real deal". "We hope so" you nodded and the waitress smiled. "Well have a nice trip home, it was nice meeting you". "You too" D.O. said and he held the door open for you. The two of you got back in the car and D.O. paused "so she thought we were..." he trailed off but of course you knew what he was saying. "Yeah, I agreed in case she charged us for our bill. I love a free meal". D.O. took a breath "is that the only reason you said we were a couple?". You paused and turned to look at him "why? Would you like there to be another reason?". D.O. nodded "I would" sending a shiver down your spine. "You would?" you asked and he nodded not showing how nervous he was. "Yes, I'd like you to want us to be a couple because I want that...I like you y/n". You smiled "you do? I had no idea! Since I met you I've been so pleasantly surprised and I felt myself falling for you but thought I might've ruined it with my preconceptions". D.O. shook his head "you didn't ruin anything" and kissed you. Having a first kiss in car is slightly awkward because of the positioning. You both had to turn towards one another to reach but you managed. It wasn't the most comfortable position but neither of you cared. D.O. couldn't believe you were kissing him back and you couldn't believe how sweet D.O. was. Then D.O. tried to move closer to you and elbowed the dashboard sending a shooting pain down his arm. He cried out in pain and you jolted apart. "Are you okay?" you asked and he nodded sighing "yeah I'm fine..." then you both started laughing. Once you'd settled down you turned to D.O. "you sure you're okay?". He nodded "I'm better than okay" looking at you and you blushed. D.O. had to rush off to work as soon as he got back in the city but he hesitated to get out of the car “so are you free this evening for dinner?” D.O. asked “we can go to a restaurant or I can cook you something”. You smiled “I am but let’s go to a restaurant, I don’t want you to have to cook after working all day. I want to take care of you too” and D.O. went bright red making you chuckle. “How did I ever think you were scary?” you asked and D.O. smiled “I get why you did but hopefully I’ve gotten rid of all those thoughts now?”. You nodded “completely” and shot him a warm smile that made D.O. just want to kiss you all over again. The thought must’ve been contagious because you glanced at D.O.’s lips before sighing “so you should probably go before I refuse to let you”. D.O. smiled “I’ll call you as soon as I’m done with work?”. You nodded “can’t wait” and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. D.O. practically strut into work and smiled and greeted every single person he passed. His manager remarked he was in a good mood and he smiled “it was a good wedding!” and got ready to start recording but before he did he pulled out his phone and sent Kai a text which you ironically also sent Kai a few minutes later.

Both of your texts were three words long.

“You were right”.

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blueberryjam1201 · 6 months

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Unexpected

Chapter 5

Genre: drama, comedy

I gave lots of love for this chapter, and even though the view descriptions could be a little boring, but I wanted to give you a full picture of what I see .

Please leave me a comment and heart if you like it❤️

"The double rainbow we saw that day...

...Ah..

You admired the rainbow, and I admired you...

The colorful pictures were taken that day,

I don't need to print them off...

They are engraved in my memory forever...

The strings, plucked by our fingers...

The strings we created...

The life we expected..."

...

It was the evening when he came back from a work trip...

Kyungsoo and YiSeul sat at the table. YiSeul released her hair from the tight top knot and brushed by fingers so they would lie down nicely on her arms. Then a gentle smile appeared on her face:

- How was your trip? -

- I'm more tired than before the trip. To be honest, I could have been sleeping inside the JJ building. Everyday meetings, and organizational projects. I even worked with a live audio engineering team to make sure the stadium equipment was efficient -

The spark in his eyes shined though, those words didn't sound like a complaint.

- Oh, so Baboo has a new skill! - she joked

- I knew it all! I was the one who was teaching them - touched his full of pride chest while declaring that - and you? Except for the accident with your mom, what have you been doing? - She took a sip of wine and brushed he hair to the back:

- Nothing worth mentioning... Oh! We will probably have a job for Marie Claire! - that made her suddenly jump and point finger at a random place on the sealing, for no reason.

- Wow, that's great. I'm sure you will do a great job! - Kyungsoo comforted her. The atmosphere suddenly became lively.

They spend an hour chatting and sharing a great time.

When the time for cleaning came, they collected all the plates and she started washing dishes while he was cleaning the table. When finished, he stood behind her and hugged tightly. Then brushed her hair to the side and comfortably placed his face on their arm. Then gave her a peck on the ear...slowly going down her neck. She stopped washing, turned around, and with wet fingers she slid down his face gently. Down the forehead and nose, then stopped at the lips. She placed her hand on his back and pressed against her. Both lips touched creating a euphoria running down their bodies. Kyungsoo forgot about all the doubts, from a few minutes ago. It was too late to stop it...

The night was intimidating like a starry night on a clear sky...

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AUTHOR NOTE: TBC in a special chapter! You can find it here

https://archiveofourown.org/works/51266965

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In the morning Kyungsoo woke up in his bed and groped blindly for YiSeul who was usually sleeping next to him. After still half asleep mind realised she was not there, he opened his eyes to confirm it. There was no one in the room except him. The atmosphere after last night's full swing was still in the air. The grey flat carpet looked like it was part of the gym flooring, if only any gym would use a house carpet. Kyungsoo slowly sat on the bed and moved to the edge. His slippers were nowhere to be found, so he just ignored his barefoot feet and headed to the door.

While walking down the stairs he was focused on listening to any sounds. "Has she gone home?" Thought impatiently and his feet moved faster with every step..."She's here..." he stopped and looked at his girlfriend leaning her back on the kitchen's countertop and scrolling something on her phone. A teethy smile appeared on his face.

- YiSeul, you're up already? -

- Oh, KyungSoo, you woke up? Good - she smiled back when raised her head - I'm going to start work earlier today. Will be sleeping at my mom's tonight. Give me a call later, ok? - and she moved to the door's direction and stopped halfway. Kyungsoo without a second thought jumped down the stairs and walked casually to her side. Hugged gently, staying a little longer in this position than it was needed:

- Eat well and don't forget to wear warm clothes, it's cold outside - he looked into her eyes - Give me a call when you're free OK? -

She gave him a peck on the lips and with a wide smile said: - See you...Baboo - she waved her hand, opened the door, and disappeared behind it in a second.

His mind for some reason went blank, but not because she walked away. He felt like he was carrying a heavy burden on his back for a long time and suddenly it disappeared. He stretched his back without discomfort. What was the reason for this burden? He couldn't understand himself, but it doesn't matter now. He is full of joy and feels like his body is about to float in the air any minute. Nothing will change his mood today. Time to go to work...

KyungSoo's contract states that his work pattern is from Monday to Friday, with office hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. In reality, when it's busy he comes earlier to have everything prepared perfectly. Finish time also depends on his own work goals. When it's quiet he can finish earlier and work from home if needed. When it's busy, he is staying till he finishes his job. A job that is usually set up by himself. Even the receptionists are joking that they will apply for creating a living room in this building, especially for him. Because it's a busy period, Kyungsoo arrived at work at 7 a.m

JJ Entertainment was built in JungGu, Seuls Jung district which is in Seuls center and just the northern side of the famous Han River. This district is also famous for its history and reminding historical buildings, these days however mixed with also the modern ones.

The company's large grounds were placed 10 min from the main road, embracing one small street area. The main building's shape was oval from the bottom to approximately the 4th floor, then the shape changed to a regular rectangular office building created from glass walls, just in the center of its round bottom. From the street to the main entrance was a large space filled with nicely shaped bushes on the sides and a few branches placed one after another in rows. The parking lot was placed on the left side. JJE smaller buildings were placed behind the main one, with a substantial park in the middle. It was probably not created for employers to enjoy their break time, but for outsiders and other companies, as well as stockholders, to make an outstanding impression.

Kyungsoo parked his car after approximately 30 minutes of travel. He headed to the main entrance ignoring anyone who just passed by. There's no need to smile at strangers even if they knew who he was. KyungSoo's personality is honest, he can't lie and wear a smiling mask even in this business world full of puppets and those with power. If he meets someone he knows, then he will definitely greet this person. For example, ladies from reception...

- Good morning. Early start today? - one of them just grabbed his attention. They are always doing that, not only to KyungSoo. A smiling young lady with a nicely tied bun and wearing a two-piece skirt suit set in silver color waved to him from the reception desk. Two more ladies were wearing the same style and makeup which was nicely done eyebrows, long lashes, and red lips.

- Good morning, any news? - Kyungsoo stopped to have a chat.

- Nothing much today - then she opened her notebook and double-checked her words - Tempo is coming at 9 am, later new solo artist is looking for advice. The visit was authorized by Kim. The meeting was at 11:30, so we were crossing fingers for the solo artist...- then she raised her crossed fingers and gazed at Kyungsoo with a teethy smile which was giving him the android doll vibe programmed to cheer for buyers, so he ignored it waiting for the rest of today's plan...- around 15:30 Creams will arrive and discuss their new album details -

- Am I fully dealing with them again? - KyungSoo interrupted her because this unpleasant feeling of not knowing what his real tasks were was disturbing. What was the purpose of taking away Creams from him and then sending them from time to time for a consultation or whatever it is? He still hasn’t forgotten what Kim has done at the meeting...

- Apologies sir, I have no details in this matter...- she was upset, but not because of him. She was upset that as a receptionist she should be a better support.

- It's fine, I'll ask them by myself - he shook his hand to calm her down - Thanks, see you later - slightly bowed down and headed to the gates on the right side of the reception.

The gates looked like the airport, just "the doors" were square glass plates that could be opened only by swapping an employee's card. Straight after the gates was a corridor with 2 lifts on the right and left, also further down another path leading to corridors hidden behind the walls. He used the first lift on the left. Then after riding alone, he stopped at the 7th floor. Then, headed to the studio at the very end of this long corridor, doors on the right.

He opened the black, solid doors which were heavy like his garden fence when he just moved in, before applying oil.

The studio consists of two rooms. First, after entering the main door was the control booth. Doors were under the left side wall. Just further down was the lounge area. A black leather couch under the wall and two armchairs standing parallel, forming a U shape with a coffee table just in the center. On their right side was a long control desk with hundreds of recording controls, and a main computer in the middle. Two large screens were placed at the window just above the desk, a keyboard on placed on it and small space for a computer mouse on its right side. The office chair was nicely placed under. The window was as wide as the control desk. At the end of this room on the right side was a bar chair and a high table with a microwave, then under the wall 3 vending machines, each with different products. Sandwiches and noodle soups, cold drinks and hot drinks. Except for them, on this wall, two pairs of doors were seen, probably for machine rooms.

Kyungsoo came near the high table at the end, took out a laptop from his backpack, and placed it in the middle. Then he took out the blue file and black notebook and headed to the chair in the middle of the control booth. When sat down, he lowered under to press the PC power button, and then he sat comfortably and looked behind the window.

The second room was a vocal booth. This was the place for real fun for musicians as after entering by the door from the control booth's right side, there was all kind of different instruments standing and waiting to be used!

Right wall - metal desk with violin and flute case, then large black piano. The back wall was filled with all kinds of guitars and bass guitars hung on the rack like coats in the anteroom. On the left side was a drum set and three hand drums of a different size. Then finally, in the middle was a vocal station with a high chair, microphone, and isolation shield.

Kyungsoo started working on the computer, took out from his pocket a pen-drive, and inserted it into the PC. Time was passing fast when he was working, writing in the notebook, and creating new beats in production software. "A piece of cake," he thought, and after that he opened his eyes and a sudden spark appeared in his gaze. He took a pen, played one of the beats, and went:

"A piece of cake...

Inscribed in significance

I wrote it as I wished

As the author of the novel"

the melody was coming along with the words. He suddenly stood up and started singing:

"Before it gets more difficult

With the words I said

The day... that felt like a dream" then stopped

- no, "an answer" sounds better...- and typed it down. The whispers from the door site woke him up from a trance and he rushed to see who is it. It was four Tempo members secretly watching him from a slightly opened door and giggling with each other. He calmed down:

- You're here? Did I leave the doors open? -

Boys walked in with amused faces and one of them answered " Yes, sorry for eavesdropping" and he folded his hands as if in prayer.

He was quite tall, around 180 cm, with medium-length wavy hair, and a round face.

The member on his right was maybe 173cm tall, with short hair with red colored gelled bangs up. Kyungsoo guessed it was some kind of trend that he was not following, but it would pass soon anyway so no point in thinking about it.

Next, the tallest of them, maybe a 188cm guy with blue hair color, cut in a mushroom hairstyle. Again, for Kyungsoo probably the color was a bigger question than the cut, but he ignored it.

The fourth one was max 170cm and his hair was blond dreadlocks.

- Guys, sorry, I have seen your names but still don't know who is who. Can you enlighten me? - he pressed his hand against his chest - I'm Doh KyungSoo as you probably already know -

- I'm Di! - the one with wavy hair said

- I'm TJ - the one with gelled bangs

- I'm Luke - the tallest said and Kyungsoo commented: "Oh, going by English name?"

- My name is Nakatsu, and I'm Japanese - he made a peace sign and pressed it to his face with a teethy smile.

- Nice to meet you guys - KyungSoo was calm, but it seemed he couldn't wait to start. He prepared many tasks before they started the real thing.

- Sit on a couch, I would like to speak and get to know you - he pointed to the lobby and then headed to his producer's chair under the control desk.

After a while, when they finished talking about themself he went:

- Who is rapping and who is singing, also what kind of vocal range are you? -

They shouted together while raising their hands high like at school. - Sorry, what did you say? Soprano? - he asked Di.

- I can go very high! - shouted with pride, but Kyungsoo, even without changing his impassive facial expression he smirked. Soprano is the highest female range, we will see if he is telling the truth.

- And you? - asked Nakatsu

- I'm on the lower range but I can do runs and adlips! - said that to make Kyungsoo curious about his abilities. Then the producer asked:

- So you both are rapping? For a rap... guys, please do not mumble rap, I will appreciate any effort to be as creative as it is possible, OK? -

Silence...

- We're not mumble rapping, no worries! - The blue-haired Luke laughed out loud.

- I'm glad to hear that because what I have for you will need a specific style and flexibility to make it perfect. Let's check your vocals range first, so I'll know where we are standing -

And the KyungSoo's mini-casting started. Apparently, the vocals were slightly different than what was stated by the members. Also, Kyungsoo helped them to explore their vocal capabilities. This studio suddenly became an amusement park. The laugh and excitement were heard even in the corridor...Where Kim was standing and listening, as the doors were not closed fully.

- Manager Kim...-

He jumped on site after hearing a gentle voice talking from the back. With eyes wide open he tried to catch a breath.

- Director Choi, what brings you to the 7th floor? - asked one question but it seems he had more of them in his head.

- I'm just checking on our new boy group. How are they? -

The person standing there was a middle-aged tall woman with black long hair tied nicely in a twisted low bun. Minimal makeup, just long lashes and mat lipstick in a dark burgundy color. She was wearing a black office suit set with a grey shirt under. She casually came under the door and listened to any sounds coming from the gap.

- Considering Kyungsoo will train and lead them, we can expect something new and satisfying... - he answered a question from a few seconds ago, but his tone sounded like he was not admitting it easily.

Then Choi opened the heavy door without any warning, walked inside, and closed it behind leaving Kim alone in the corridor...

When she entered, the silence fell in the studio. Kyungsoo rose and bowed his back:

- Director Choi -

The rest of the boys did the same. She casually moved to KyungSoo's site and turned to the Tempo members.

- Are you enjoying your time here? Do you find this session helpful? -

"YES!" They shouted together at once while raising clenched fists like they were ready for a battle.

- Good - Director smiled and turned to Kyungsoo - how do you see this? -

For some reason, they both started slowly moving to the vocal booth, without a word like they were sharing the same mind. - Doh Kyungsoo - saying his full name intended to speed up his answer. He smiled gently and while walking inside the vocal booth he started:

- They have talent but no technique. It will take a while, I'm not a vocal couch. Will practice with them the songs and explore their abilities to sound the best as it's possible on recordings, but they should start training now. They don't even know the vocal range...- and stopped because he realized Choi is laughing amused by his words - ...OK? -

- I apologize, it's just I'm still impressed even after many years. You grown tall Kyungsoo-yah - she looked at him in a way mother would look at her son and that made him speechless - I'm glad that I made you stay that day. You are the most irreplaceable person in this building. Come to think about it, do you still have this...trauma?.. - stopped. Is this the best word? Can she ask it directly? A few years ago saying the word "trauma" was like playing with fire. He looked into her eyes with disbelief. Then, calmed down as if this question never happened, looked at the microphone and the chair in the middle and almost whispered:

- I have no idea, to be honest... a lot is going on in my life and I somehow forgot about the past. But I like how I live now, thank you, again, for giving me a chance back then - he then gratefully smiled and bowed slightly.

- I will never forget when I found you on that floor backstage... also, I will never forget when you were the only candidate on casting who came with a Pen-drive, printed off lyrics and sang your own song. I knew I couldn't lose you back then...-

This silent second was long like an hour. Was the sliding in his lower eyelid tear a manifestation of joy or the terrific memories?

- If you ever wish to try again, please let me know. I won't be lying, as a director I wish to use all your capabilities for business purposes, but...as a friend... I just want you to be happy and not limited because of your fears. I'll help you, whenever you feel you are ready - her caring smile gave Kyungsoo comfort. "Thanks" he nodded head.

When she was about to open the door, she stopped and raised her hand:

- I remember! This is something I have learned today *ha ha ha*- laughed suddenly before even revealing the reason - Staff is calling you producer K.O. - and covered her laughing face by hand. Confused KyungSoo wasn't sure if he should laugh too:

- What does that mean? -

- I didn't know either, but apparently, K.O. in games means the final blow, and employees are saying you are always giving the final blow to every work - she still laughed like it's the best joke ever. This was surprising but not unpleasant. Kyungsoo felt like laughing too and they both came back to the control room in a good mood.

The next day, and the day after, and the day after, all were looking the same. Producer K.O. comes to work at 7 a.m. and finishes around 8 p.m. Eating, reading, or watching movies then sleeping and waking up again. On Thursday there was no difference.

This day was long. Kyungsoo had to train Tempo as apparently, no vocal couch was available at that moment because they were in different cities and different branches. JJE was big enough so they could afford to employ additional staff, but it seems the recruitment and planning team missed this one job role in their plans and now they are blaming the low budget for short-staffing.

After this long day, at 5 p.m., Kyungsoo was still in the studio. He was working on the song he came up with 3 days ago, recording his voice, but not in the vocal booth, just sitting comfortably in his chair in the control room.

The doors opened, he didn't even have time to turn around when he heard:

- Kyungsoo-yah! - it was Chanyeol, waving his hand and smiling like a baby.

- How's it going? - at the same time slapped friends back. Then, Kyungsoo swung his elbow just in the center of Chanyeol's belly, but just touched to scare him, and it worked, his friend jumped back and started laughing.

- How are things? All good?-

- Yeah, I think so. Been buckling down for the last 4 days - raised his hands and stretched his back as much as he could.

- What about you? -

- Umm...nothing really, SeoJung and WSS are a pain in my butt, but we're fine with May now, so nothing will destroy my great mood. What about YiSeul? -

Silence...

Kyungsoo just realized he didn't have any contact with her for 3 days. He was so knackered after work that he was managing only to send a Goodnight message...has she replied at all? He grabbed his mobile phone and started searching. She didn't...then he looked at Chanyeol who was standing with folded hands and gazing at his friend with disbelief.

- That's not good, is it? Instead of sitting here pointlessly, you should call her. Maybe she's mad, I would definitely be...- Kyungsoo grabbed the phone and ran to the corridor while pressing CALL.

ONE SIGNAL

TWO SIGNALS

THREE SIGNALS

- Finally, huh? - she answered...

He was in such a shock that couldn't construct the sentences. He didn't believed she answered... And why he didn't think about her in those 3 days? How selfish is he? She's angry, definitely angry...

- Y..YiSeul...apologies, I had loads of work to do...- "It's fine, I knew" she interrupted...

But what is this feeling of disappointment? Why is she not upset? Why is she supportive? He has done wrong! He is the worst boyfriend and yet, she is not angry.

Something seems off.

He knew it but didn't want to let this thought disturb his mind now.

- Are you happy to spend time with me tomorrow? I mean...I will work only 5 hours, most of the job is done. Do you want to go on a trip to an amusement park? -

- Why not? Sure! - she almost shouted into the phone and this made him satisfied. Then he came back to the studio where Chanyeol was waiting impatiently to joke around about this situation.

What a joyful day is waiting for you Kyungsoo-yah...