Against the current

1.

''I really don't wanna go.''-I say chasing my mom around the house. She has a habbit of not looking people in the face while telling them bad news... or when she thinks she's right so it has to be the end of a conversation but I am persistent. She picked up a water can for her flowers and turned to me.
''You will go and I will not have it with your attitude Aki. I see nothing wrong in going away for a while. Maybe you pick some good behaviour on the way.''-she said. I sighed and stomped my foot which I haven't done since I was five.
''What am I supposed to do? Leave my friends behind and go on the other side of the world alone?''-I ask in full frustration and I can feel the preassure in my head rising. She turned away and started watering her flowers.
''You call those...''-she paused looking for a word. ''Good for nothing people, friends?''-she asked and hit a nerve.
''What are you talking about? Those good for nothing people are my friends. They were there for me when you weren't. When you didn't want to be there and kept ignoring me. You think sending me away will do you good. Well sorry to crush your dreams mother. Not gonna happen because I am not going.''-I said crossing my arms in front of my chest. She slammed the watering can on the table spilling the water all over.
''I have had enough with this. Akira you will go and you don't have any choice. I am not looking to get rid of you. You will thank me for this one day.''-her mad expression softened a little. ''I only ever wanted what is best for you. It is true that I am not the best mother in the world but I am not the worst eather. Now go pack your things you are leaving tomorrow noon.''-she said turning away again.

''I don't blame you without reason. Maybe you just are the worst.''-I say and run upstairs to my room. I will absolutely not leave Vegas tomorrow. I took my backpack and threw it on the bed along with some other stuff I need to go away for a few nights. I was absolutely furious. Few nights ago mum was on the phone with her younger brother, my uncle, Jay. He lives in South Korea and apparently he wants me to visit. For a whole ing summer. Like I don't have anything better to do with my summer, in freaking Vegas. We are not even close, I haven't spoken to him in like three years maybe. That was when I last saw him. I don't even know what he does for a living. Last time I heard he was a CEO in some company but I sereously doubt it that a major company would have a CEO full of tattoos but whatever. I grabbed my cigarettes and stepped on my windowsill. I looked down on the front lawn. It was dark, that meant the lights in the house were off and my mother went to sleep. Good. I took a deep breath, I haven't done this since middle school. I jumped on the tree in front of the window and if the branch I stepped on broke I would most definitely die. I climbed down the smaller branches and broke into a run when I reached the ground.
Few minutes later when I was safe I began to walk slowly so I lit my cigarette and took a long drag. In darkness I saw a well lit house at the end of the street that belonged to my best friend Jace. When I reached the house I let myself in because we were that comfortable with eachother. We are not dating. Even though I can see he is clearly in love with me it just won't happen. There is no spark. And I am a strong believer in sparks. When I came in he was sitting on a couch with a bunch of people in a coud of smoke. I sighed. Even tho I smoked and ocasionally drank, weed was a stop for me. He looked over someones head and by his blank stare I could tell he is over the top stoned. He smiled lazily.
''Aki, come here baby.''-he said and I was hesistant standing in the hallway. ''Come on.''-Jace said. I moved slowly as heads turned twoard me. Five guys and one girl, who clearly was annoyed by my comming there. ing atention seekers. I rolled my eyes and threw off my backpack on the floor. I sat next to Jace who reeked of beer and weed. He put one arm around me almost choking me and I hit him with my elbow in the ribbs. He coughed a little then moved the arm away.

''Guys this is Akira Nakano.''-he introduced me. One guy grinned.
''Wow you have a chinese friend thats so cool. Does she understand us?''-he asked with a goofy smile plastered on his face.
''I do. I was born in Vegas you moron.''-I almost yelled. Why do they always assume I am chinese. ''I am not chinese.''-I add. His smile faded.
''Quite a toung on you girl.''-the girl said. I just glared at her. This is my teritory .
''She is half korean half japanese. Right?''-Jace asked and I nodded.
''So what are you doing with trash like us? Shouldn't you be studying or something?''-one guy said and they all laughed silently.
''First of all, you and your stereotype . Second of all, school is over. It's summer.''-I say looking at Jace pleading him with my eyes to make them go away. I guess he caught on because he stood up.
''Guys let's call it a night.''-he said as he turned of the music. Everybody sighed and looked at me like I was an alien.
''Party killer.''-the girl said wickedly as she swayed her half across the room.
When everybody was out I finnaly relaxed and slumped on the couch.
''Trouble in the paradise?''-he asked.
''Depends on what you consider paraidse because I'm in hell.''-I say closing my eyes.
''Well it must be something bad if you brought your stuff with you. How long will you stay this time?''- he asked turning some of the lights in the house off because he knew I hated them. I don't know why I am sensitive to light but I just am and he doesn't ask.
''I don't know Jace.''-I say.
''Are you gonna tell me about it?''-he asked. I eyed him suspiciously. He was stoned just a minute ago and now he is a shrink all of a sudden.
''My mom wants me to go to Korea.''-I say. He just looks at me.
''North or South?''-Jace asks.
''Does it matter?''-I ask.
''Hell yes it matters. I doubt you will have a good time at the good old north.''-he says and I just stare at him. He is still high.
''I will not go. She can't make me.''-I say determined.
''I don't think Jessica is wrong. Maybe you could use time off.''-he says.
''Time off what Jace? What the are all of you talking about? I am fine!''-I yell.
''You cannot possibly be fine Akira. You didn't even cry on his funeral. You were a blank page. That's just wrong''-he said.
''What was I supposed to do? Damn well I won't cry on my fathers funeral he ing abused me for years. I am so happy I am free of him I could barely stop myself from smiling when he died.''-I say tears stinging in my eyes but I swallow them back because I am stronger than this, and I have never cried in front of anybody before.
''Even if he was scum from hell he was your father, you cry when your family dies no matter of circumstances.''-he said and I was sure he was going to cry because two years ago he lost his parents in a plane crash. My poor son of a of a father went easily. Heartattack. He should have burned for what he did to me. I shake my head from flashbacks and stand up. I head to the kitchen when Jace catches my arm and pulls me in a hug.
''I am not against you. I can't possibly imagine what you went trough and I am so sorry. But you deserve better than what your life is right now.''-I tried to push him away but he doesn't budge. ''Listen to me. You can do better than hanging out with me and our bunch of ing nobody's for friends. You are smart, beautiful and incredibly amazing person. You destroy yourself and pretend to be so strong when everything is just pilling up inside you. Don't you wonder what's going to happen when you blow up? This trip is maybe something that is going to turn your world upside down and send you on a right track. Can't you think about going?''-he asked and I actually thought about it for a second but I shook my head.
''I am not going. Not without you at least. If it were you, me and Haley I wouldn't think twice about going but not alone.''-I say and wrap my arms around him. He smelled so nice and manly. He was five years older than me. I was about to turn twenty. I was late to school so I am the oldest in my class. Right, I don't have a class anymore. I graduated. And that was only because school wanted to get rid of me. I was their problem number one. Well glad to put that behind me.
''You can't always count on me and Haley, Aki. You know that.''-he said and he was right. They were only keeping me busy so I don't think about myself more than I really need to. I was affraid to be left alone because I was selfdestructive in many ways. They kept me alive but for how long. My head started to hurt. I pushed him away slightly and headed for the spare bedroom that was practicaly mine. We didn't talk anymore that night so I took a shower and went to sleep.

2.

The morning came quickly and the sun was drilling into my eyes trough the window. I was about to chech the time when a knock came on my door. I looked at the door but said nothing because I knew what's next.

''Aki your mom is here. With a passport.''-he said. My stomach twisted and I bit my lip. I cought my reflection on the mirror. I looked scared. I shook my head and chased the fear away. I stood up and opened a window. She was standing on the lawn with a passport in her hand.
''What do you want?''-I yelled trough the window. She looked up at me squinting because of the sun.
''Come down let's talk.''-she said.
''You don't need a passport for talking.''-I say. She sighed.
''Please come down Akira.''-she said.
''No way Jessica.''-I say and close the window.

I brush my teeth and comb my hair. It has gotten so long. I haven't cut it for almost two years. And I was rocking the gentle pink almost peach color. I had six piercings in each ear and one on my eyebrow. I had a tattoo on my collarbone wich said Secretly Greatly, second tattoo on my arm which said Most Beautiful Moments In Life and a pretty big red lilly on my calf. I loved my tattoos. I loved being uniqe. It made me happy. I smiled. I went back to my room to dress myself. I put on a black tank top and jean shorts and converse. Simple was everything to me. I sighed one last time and headed downstairs. My mom was sitting at the kitchen table and Jace next to her. They were talking. She looked pissed of and he was only nooding. I approached him and my mom turned to me. She pushed the passport twoard me on the table.
''You are going.''-she said and I was about to turn her down. ''Please. For me.''-she added looking down at her hands. I swallowed and looked at Jace. Hi shruged. I stood for a while and my mom just stood up and left. I was staring at the door behind her. Fine. I took the passport of the table and rushed to get my backpack. In a minute I was out of the house and in three minutes I was in a cab. Leaving without saying goodbye. To anybody.

Thank God the flight is over. That was the worst experience in my life. My first flight and it had a lot of turbulence. It was terrible. But the situation I am in is even worse. I am standing in an airport in Incheon with no idea where to go. I have been standing in the same spot for about half an hour now and my stuff was limited. I only had my backpack with spare clothes and my wallet. My phone was home. I cut of all contact with people who didn't want me. But I am stuck right now. With no way out. People were looking at me and whispering some even took pictures I am sure. This place is so weird I swear. I was about to give up standing and head for the exit when some guy came up to me. He was kinda short and a little bit chubby. He was kinda cute with a mole under his eye and he dressed like something out of mtv hip hop .

''Are you Akira?''-he asked and my stomach twisted. Here we go.
''Yeah, did my uncle send you?''-I asked. He smiled.
''Yes, your uncle is my boss.''-he said.
''Oh you work in his company?''-I ask eyeing his attire. What the hell is my uncle doing for a living?
''My name is Hyuk Woo, but you can call me Loco.''-he said while we walked to the exit. I almost laughed but he was serious so I just nodded.
''Umm.. you can call me Aki.''-I say.
''Cool.''-he says and then akward silence is on. I try to look everywhere else just not at him when he suddenly stops. ''Your suitcase?''-he asked looking around.
''Don't have one.''-I say. For a few seconds he just stood there but then he blinked and started moving again. He was so fast it was hard to keep up. He had his head bowed down the whole time. Like he wanted not to be seen. He just made me paranoid. I considered a possibility of my uncle leading a mafia or something but even though my uncle could Loco doesn't seem that way at all. We stopped in front of a big black van and I took a step back. This was too much. Loco must have seen the expression on my face and he laughed. He took a step closer to the car and opened the door. Inside was my uncle Jay and he yelled happily while poping a confeti thing in my face. Classy. His laugh died when he saw I am not impressed. I haven't seen him in two years I think. He had his whole arm tattoed. Cool. His nose is pierced and his hair is sick. I wanted to kick myself for ignoring my aperently awesome uncle.

''Welcome Akira.''-he said pulling me inside the van. I almost fell face first.
''Hi Jay.''-I manage to say. ''It's Aki.''-I add. He relaxed a little.
''You changed.''-he said. But he wasn't giving me a bad look. He looked proud. Maybe I could manage a summer in Korea after all. ''You don't talk much?''-he asked when the van started moving. He had his own driver.
''Should I?''- I ask and he laughs.
''Well, no.. you can relax I ain't gonna drill you 'bout anything.''-he said. It was like coolnes was dripping from his tongue.
''What's with the getup though?''-I ask pointing to tainted windows and all the bling that was actually going on inside the veicle.
''Getup?''-he asked confused. He cannot possibly be used to all of this . ''I mean.. it's pretty usuall though.''-Jay said. I sighed and rolled down the window to breathe in some air. It passed about twenty seconds and we were at the red light when a car next to us started honking and guys in the car were yelling 'AOMG' it freaked me out so I just closed the window. Jay saw my reaction and laughed.
''Okay am I missing the joke or what? Because it's not funny. I have been in this country for about an hour now and I already think you guys are weird as .''-I say and Jay just laughs more.
''I thought Jess is messing with me.''-he said smilling.
''About what?''-I ask.
''About you not knowing anything about me.''-he said. I am officialy at my limit now.
''So.. do tell please.''-I say hoping he will give me a simple answer for all the weirdness.

''Oh no. I wont tell a thing. It will be funny to watch as it slowly gets to your head.''-he smirked. Well that's just dandy. Why would it be easy? I looked at Loco and he looked away. Damn it.

We pulled up to a building with a huge 'AOMG' sign. The same those guys were yelling. I scratched the back of my neck in frustration. Jay entered the building and motioned me to follow him. The interior was so hip hop oriented it threw me off for a second. There were bunch of guys talking to Jay calling him boss but they were so comfortable with him. We finally reached the door on which was written Jay Park CEO. And then in korean it was written Park Jaebeom. Perks of being korean means knowing languages. But I didn't know japanese at all. We went into his office and I sat in a big armchair in the corner.
''Aki look. My house is remodeling and I have nowhere else to put you. I though it will be over by the end of last week but apparently it wont be until next month so please don't be mad and stay here. You can sleep on the couch and you have a fridge over there including a bar and a bathroom. And I am going to be here everyday anyways so you won't be alone I promise.''-he said. It seemed more than enough. I slept in dumps before and this could easily be a five star hotel for me.

''No problem. It's cool.''-I say eyeing the bar. Cool uncle.

''You sure?''-he asked and I nodded. I took my backpack and went twoard the bathroom. I am in great need of a shower. ''Aki is that all you have with you?''-he asked.
''Let's just say I ran away.''-I say and for a second I see his worried face but I close the door of the bathroom because I knew worried faces all too well.

3.

I took a record long shower and when I entered the office Jay wasn't there. He left a note on his table saying: Have to work. You are free to do whatever you like. See you in the morning. -J

I look around the office and note that it's full of photos from random concerts and some Show Me the Money gold necklaces. I was eyeing the laptop on his table and wondering if I should contact Jace but I was still pissed off so that was out of the question. I removed a towel from my wet hair and opened the window. It was pretty hot during the day so it's warm at night. The air is different but nice. The office was overlooking the Gangnam I think. It was beautiful and full of lights. I smiled when I thought of Vegas but this wasn't he same. I checked the clock, it was almost midnight. I am tempted to go outside and explore but even I was smart enough to know that wouldn't end well at all. I lit my cigarette and sat on the window which I almost fell out of when I heard a noise outside the door. The door opened and the room was suddenly filled with light. I squinted my eyes to see who it was and if I have anything to defend myself with. I guy came in wearing a oversized black hoodie and a mask on his face. My heart sank and I couldn't moove. He looked at me suddenly stopping himself. His eyes went wide. There was a baseball bat maybe five feet to my left and I glanced twoard it for a second and he followed my look. His arms shot up like he was surrendering. And I frooze in the reach for the bat.
''Don't.. please.''-a deep voice came. ''I work here''-he said. I sighed and almost yell in frustration. I forget that people here wear those masks out of whim. His eyes were following me as I paced back and forth. ''Are you okay?''-he asked. His voice was really soooooo deep. Attractive. Hot. And his eyes. Damn. His hand went to his face to take of his mask. I turned aroung. I am not sure why I didn't want to see his face.
''I am fine. Take what you need and leave.''-I say. I cought my reflection in the window. My hair wet and my oversized shirt as a pijamma. So not cool. I heard some things shifting and then everything went quiet. I half turned but I saw his shadow.
''Are you Jay's niece?''-hot voice asked.
''Yeah.''-I manage to say. I glance at him and sigh with relief when I see his mask is on. He was watching me. But not like a man watches a woman when he needs to get laid. He just watches me as if I am the most interesting thing he saw. Then his phone rang and he flinched. He reached into his jeans pocket and pulled out the iPhone.
''I got itJay''-he said. ''Yeah I met her.''-he looked at me again. ''I don't know.''-still looking at me. Last few words were fast so even if I knew korean I didn't understand. He put the phone back in his pocket. His look fell onto my box of cigarettes and he stepped forward. He was so close I could smell him. Pure heaven. My skin got goosebumps. He reached for the box and I wanted to hand him the lighter when he spoke again. ''This is bad for you.''-he said as he placed the box in his other pocket as he walked out and the lights went out. I just stood there frozen.
''What the hell?''- I said throwing the lighter twoards the door. It landed with a thud and I heard his laugh from outside. Jackass. But somehow, I was smilling too.

Tomorrow morning Jay walked in his office and I was already awake. To be true, I think I didn't even sleep. I just tossed and turned. Maybe I kinda was hoping he would walk in again or something. I wanted to eat myself alive for not seeing his face. I sighed. Jay turned to me and he had a weird look on his face.
''Are you okay? I knew it... let's just go to the hotel tonight. I don't want you sleeping here.''-he said with a pained expression.
''No, no it's okay. I didn't think of that four hour time difference so I went to sleep a little early and I just couldn't.''-Jay nodded in relief.
''Wanna go somewhere tonight? Have fun?''-he asked.
''Like where?''-I asked.
''A club or something?''-he asked and I laughed.
''Clubbing with my uncle.. soooo cool.''-I say and he snorts.
''Maybe I really am cool. Cooler than your friends.''-he smirked.
''Doubt it.''-I say. ''Okay.. but I have nothing to wear.''-I say and he took out his wallet. He took out his card and threw it to me. It was all black. Never seen that one before.
''Let me introduce you to someone.''-he said and pushed a few numbers on the phone. He was eyeing me from the corner of his eye. ''Yo man, come here for a sec.''-he said and hung up the phone. ''He's a great guy. You'll like him, every girl does.''-he said. I was annoyed for a second because this was a setup but deep down I was hoping it was the guy from yesterday. I looked down at my shorts and rolling stones t-shirt and curse myslef for not packing. A few minutes later a guy walks in. He was tall, thin and very handsome. I looked into his eyes but they weren't those eyes. My annoyance crept up again. He walked straight to Jay not even noticing me on the sofa.
''What's up?''-he asked. Jay motioned at me and the guy turned. He smiled. He was drop dead gorgeous. Damn. ''Hi, my name is Seong Hwa. But you can call me Gray.''-what's with those nicknames. I managed to smile back.
''Aki.''-I say dropping the 'but you can call me' stuff. His mouth made an 'o'.
''Your niece?''-he asked and Jay noded typing something into his laptop. ''You didn't tell us she was coming.''-Gray said.
''I didn't even know myself. My sister said she didn't want to come. But she suddenly did. Imagine my surprise.''-Jay said smiling. ''I have a favour to ask you. I am short on time. I have to go prepare a stage. So if you could go with her and buy some clothes. She doesn't exactly have any.''-he said and I laughed and Gray with me.
''Sure. Let's go.''-he said. I stand up and put the black card into my back pocket.
''Thank's Jay.''-I say. ''I am sorry for not wanting to come. Maybe this isn't so bad.''-I say and he smirked and shrugged.

''Told ya.''-he said as I closed the door to his office. On a way out we passed some kind of studios. I stood forzen and then it hit me. This is a record label. This is flippin cool. Gray turned around and saw me staring into a studio.
''You wanna see inside?''-he asked. I look at him and he was just standing there smiling. I nodd and he moves twoard the door. He opened the door and some music came out. My skin got goosebumps. The voice rapping inside got me flying to another world. I push pass Gray and go inside. There was a control panel with a billion buttons and little lights. A guy was sitting behind the computer slouching and clicking furiously. He turned slightly and noded to Gray. Behind the glass, dressed in a light blue hoodie and white pants with big earphones on his head. A guy was rapping furiously. But my attention was to his voice. The voice I heard yesterday. He wasn't facing me and again I couldn't see his face.
''Have you met Ssam D?''-Gray asked. I turned around.

''Who?''-I aks and he points to the rapping guy.

''No.''-I say. We have met but it was like we haven't. Gray went to the panel and pushed the button so he music stopped. The guy in the booth turned around and his eyes didn't fall on Gray but on me. Breath was caught in my throat and I coughed. Ssam D? put down his earphones and went for the door. He fist bumped Gray never taking his eyes of me.
''This is Aki. She's Jay's niece.''-he said and Ssam D laughed. What?
''For a minute there I thought you would say daughter.''-now they both laughed and I just stood there awkwardly. He looked at me again and then spread out his hand. ''I am Simon Dominic.''-he said in his deep voice which made my knees weak.
''Akira.''-I say and take his hand. My cold fingers in his warmth. I quickly pulled away and took a step back. ''Sorry we bothered you. We have to go.''-I say quickly and take Grays hand to pull him with me. I glanced twoard Simon and his stare was on my hand which was holding Grays.

4.

I hated to admit that I actually had fun. We were more sightseeing than shopping but it was worth it. Gray is an awesome stylist. Or maybe everyone in Korea is. People are beautiful and even old ladies can dress like they are in their twenties and it looks cool.
''Duck!''-Gray said grabbing my head and pulling me down behind a car. We were running from two of his fangirls. They have no shame at all. Let the man breathe for god's sake. I was panting. The last time I ran this long was... I don't even remember. I admit I wasn't a big fan of my highschool gym, so I avoided it. I was about to stand straight but I heard whispering so I quickly bent down again. This time I managed to hit the car mirror with my elbow, it hurt like hell. I tried not to curse. ''I'm sorry. This is why we stay out of sight. You know, there are few fans that are polite and take a picture or an autograph and then leave but this is just too much. This kind of fans just the life out of you.''-I felt a bit sorry for him. Trough the day, even though we walked a lot, he didn't seem as tired as he was now. He leaned against the car and closed his eyes for a second. I did the same.
''It's okay. I mean, you knew it was gonna be this way when you entered this industry.''-I say and he laughs silently.

''I guess I did.''-he said and stood up. He looked around a little and sighed. ''It's clear.''-he said and I stood up. We hurried to the car Jay lent us and drove off. I still had to buy a dress for tonight.
''Can I ask you something? Please don't think it's stupid.''-I say.

''Sure. What's up?''-Gray said. I looked out my window.

''I have never been in a club before. What do I wear?''-I say and he was silent for a bit. I turned around thinking he must be looking at me like I'm some kind of freak or something, but he was still looking at the road. He pursed his lips and made a thinking face. Few seconds passed and then he smiled.
''I know just the thing.''-he said and sped up a little.
In about fifteen minutes we arrived in front of a small building with no sign in front so I figured he had to pick something up at his friends house. He came out of the car and motioned for me to follow. We entered the bulding and hopped on the elevator. We exited on the last floor. There was only one door in the hallway and it was written 'World Style' on them. Simple lettering on the gold plate. Gray didn't even knock as he entered. I followed behind and was stunned to see how huge the apartment was. It had a glass wall on one side which had a look over the whole city. It was beautiful. On each corner of the room there were stacks of clothes. All black, white, grey, gold and the mix of those. No more. Those clothes looked so fresh and new that they must be worth more than my kidney. A small and slim guy with a ponytail and tiny mustache ran to Gray and they hugged and greeted each other as I took in my surroundings. I turned to him and he said something in korean that I couldn't quite understand.

''In english.''-Gray said and the guy nodded.
''Hi my name is Mark. Welcome to Seoul..''-he said and held out a fist. I bumped his with mine and smiled.

''My name is Akira.''-I say.
''Japanese?''-he asked.
''Half korean half japanese.. but I am from Vegas actually.''-I add and he nods.
''What can I do for you today?''-Mark asked.
''I need a dress for a club.''-I said. Gray grabbed his phone and sat on the sofa by the glass wall. I guess I am on my own now.
''Okay. Dresses coming up.''-Mark said and quickly dissapeared. I stood in my spot wondering if I should follow him but after a minute or two he came back pushing the rack with dresses in front of him. I looked at the dresses scepticaly because I never wore one. I was always kinda tomboyish. I think Gray saw my struggle when he got up and took a closer look. He picked out three dresses and pushed me into the changing room. First dress was all black, tight fitting with an open back. It wasn't short but it wasn't long eather. I didn't like it. Second dress was white with opened sides which were conected by gold chains. Maybe if it was black... I took it off. Third dress was simple corset like dress with no sleeves or straps. It was grey with black lace all over it. It was tight and short. I had a good feeling about it. I walked out of the changing room on my toes and whistled to get Grays atention. His eyes snaped from his phone to my direction. I could read his lips say 'wow'. A smile was tugging on my lips. He gave a thumbs up and I hurried back to change.
''I like that one the best too.''-Mark said as he took my dress to put it in the bag. I took out my card when Mark laughed. ''Honey no money from AOMG is needed here. Enjoy.''-he handed me the bag. Gray just smirked. Privileges.

''Thank you.''-I say.

''My pleasure. Please come again.''-Mark said.

Gray and I exit the room and I spin twoard him.
''Are you sure this is okay? Not paying...''-I ask.

''Please, Mark is just a er for fame. I only had to say you were Jay's niece and he would have given you his car. Trust me.''-he said and rolled his eyes.
''But you are using him.''-I say kind of irritated.

''Look we say his name in appropriate times and all he gets is money. I don't see any wrong in this.''-he said and we enter the elevator.

The ride back to company was silent. It was awkward after my little slip of tongue at World Style. But I'm a er for injustice. But what Gray said made sense. I took my few bags and stood outside the company. He was already at the door. He turned to me.

''You're not going in?''-he asked.

''Gotta smoke.''-I say reaching into my back pocket only to find it empty. That er. Gray was still looking at me. Now he probably thinks I wanna avoid him. Nice going Aki. I sigh and walk to him.

''No smoke?''-he asked amused.

''Guess not.''-I sigh.

We pass Simons studio on our way to Jay's office and I can't help wondering what is he doing. But I didn't wait long to find out. He was already inside sitting on the sofa with his legs spread out in front of him and his hoodie covering half of his face. Soft snore escaping his lips. Gray was a few steps behind so I closed the door before I turned to him.

''Thank you for today. I owe you. Are you going to to club with us later?''-I ask him.

''No problem. If you need anything just say it. You're cool so I didn't mind. Yeah ofcourse. See you later then.''-he said and his phone rang so he took off and answered it.

5.

I took the chance to slip into the office and close the door behind me quietly. I took off my converse and kick them in the corner. Like a lion watching his prey I walked on my toes twoard sleeping Simon. His jacket was beside him. I got so close to him I could smell him. Pure heaven. But my goal wasn't him. I bent down and slowly lift his jacket off the sofa. When it was fully in my hands I searched every pocket but nothing. Damn it. I turned to him and then I saw them. Pack of my cigarettes was tucked into his front pocket. it. I bent down again from behind him so I was looking at him upside down. I grabbed my hair so it doesn't fall on him and spread out my arm. I was a bit short but I could make it. I didn't dare to even breathe as I pushed myself further. I was about to reach the pack with the tip of my finger when his eyes twitchet, then fluttered, then opened. My heart sank.

''What are you doing?''-he asked. My knees, weak from his voice again, threatned to give out. I pulled back so fast my head was spinning. ''Did you try to kiss me?''-he asked sleepily. I almost choked.

''What the hell are you talking about? No. I just want my cigarettes back.''-I say pointing to his pocket.

''Why didn't you wake me up?''-Simon asked.

''Why did you take them in the first place? And why are you sleeping here?''-I asked in frustration. He was rubbing his eyes and looking around.

''Well I had this be my sleeping place before you showed up.''-he sad as a matter of factly.

''Okay whatever. My cigarettes please.''-I said as I held out my arm. Instead of giving them to me he grabbed my hand and pulled. I think he was trying to help himself up but I wasn't expecting it so I fell face first on the sofa and my torso on his knees. He laughed loudly.

''You're weak.''-he said still laughing. I wanted to hide myself forever. I quickly rolled over and ended up on the floor.
''I'm not!''-I yelled as I stood up. He was still sitting there watching me stagger around the office to get myself far away from him. So he pulled me down on purpose? . I sighed and went to sit by the window. He pulled the hoodie back on his face and leaned back with his legs on the coffee table. He shifted slightly and then something hit me in the shoulder. My cigarettes. I took them quickly. I opened the window and smoked after a long day. It relaxed me. Not much though. I still feel him in the back of my mind. In the foothill of the building I saw Gray exiting the bulding with Loco looking all cool and handsome. I twitched. The club! I forgot. I put out my cigarette and threw it out the window. I all the lights frantically and searched through my shopping bags for make up. Simon was squinting from the light with a small growl on his face. I took my make up and went into the bathroom. I took a quick shower with cold water so my mirror doesn't fog up. I haven't been using make up in a long time if at all so I went for something more natural hoping it was enough. I let my pink hair fall in waves almost reaching my . But I was still wrapped in my towel. It cannot possibly pass as a dress. I opened the bathroom door slightly and peeked inside. He was still in the same spot and same position.
''Psst.''-I tried to get his attention but nothing. ''Simon.''-I tried a little louder and his head twitched. He turned around and looked at me. ''Can you help me with something?''-I ask. He was on his feet in two seconds never taking his eyes off me. A pool of nerves was tingling in the bottom of my stomach. He stood three feet in front of me.
''What do you need?''-he aksed.

''My dress.. it's in that red bag in the corner.''-I say and he glances twoard the bags and I saw his jaw shift. Damn I was a er for jaws. I bit my lip trying to snap myself out of it. He looked again twoard me and his eyes fell on my lips.

''Your lipstick is smeared.''-he said and went for the bag. My hand flew to my mouth and I went to look myself in the mirror. A slight red smudged. I rubbed it off and he pushed the bag with his foot inside the bathroom, but I didn't hear him back away. I took the bag and when I stood up I could see him, trough the door gap, staring trough the window his back turned to me but if I reached out I could touch him. And believe me, my palms were sweating. I was looking at him for almost three minutes when I remembered I had to dress myself so I finally closed the door.
I was finally ready in fifteen minutes when I walked out. Simon was gone. A twinge of sadness was pricking my mind. A telephone rang in the office and I was wondering if I should answer it. But it was pretty late so I figured maybe it was Jay. I was right.
''Hello.''-I say.
''Remind me to buy you a phone.''-Jay said.
''I have a phone.''-I say.
''But where is it?''-he asked.
''Home...''-I say and he laughs.
''You ready?''-he asked.

''Yeah. Pick me up?''-I aks.
''Be there in five. See ya.''-he said and hung up.
I walked out of his office and locked it behind me. The hallways were dark and it wasn't a familiar teritory so I hurried to the elevator. When I exited the building Jay was already there. He didn't look as fancy as me but somehow he looked better.
''You look amazing.''-he said and I smiled a little.
''Family obligation to say that I look pretty.''-I snort. He laughs.
''No way. I know pretty when I see pretty.''-he said starting the car. I just roll my eyes.
''Jay.. what kind of music do you do at the company?''-I ask even though I got the hint of it.
''You'll see tonight.''-he said with a smirk on his face.
In twenty minutes we arrived in front of a club where there were about thirty paparazzis. Well thanks for the heads up uncle. We stepped out and I was instantly blinded by the flashes. Some guy whistled and asked if I was Jay's girlfriend and I said no and he back off after my vicious glare. Jay pushed me inside quickly. I was instantly hit with the heat and eardrum breaking loud music. Everybody was moving to the sound and it was like the crowd was one. I was about half way in when I realized that there was a guy rapping on the stage and people soaked in his everyword. Gray. He was flippin' cool. When he was done I was clapping like an idiot even though nobody else did. We reached the vip part of the club and Jay was greeted by at least fifteen people by the table filled with champagne and some other drinks I didn't know. Jay turned to me.

''Guys this is my niece Aki.''-he yelled and everybody cheered. I smiled and waved. He introduced the people to me one by one. ''This is Hep. You know Loco, this great lady over here is Hoody, Ugly Duck but call him Duckie. My nigga over there is Cha Cha Malone, this is Elo., this lady here you won't be seeing in our company, CL she is a YG . Gray is on the stage including our two DJ's, Wegun and Pumpkin. One guy is missing but he'll show up. He co-owns the company with me.''-he kept introducing people but I shut down. Looking for Simon. Was he the guy Jay was talking about. I sighed and looked at the stage. Gray was swaying back and forth and I didn't even notice Jay was gone when he popped up on the stage next to Gray and the crowd went wild. Including me. My uncle was ing awesome. They sang something I think it's called Dangerous. I drank my fourth glass of champagne. Nobody tried to talk to me thankfully. I'm not good at small talks and new people. I was feeling buzzed when I heard him. It was heard to miss him since he had started singing Simon Dominic. Talk about vanity... I stood up and leaned on the railing above the stage. He was killing it and people were screaming. The atmosphere was crazy. His eyes shoot up the railing were our vip place was located, he blinked twice and on third time his eyes met mine. I was sure of it because we weren't that far away. He smirked at my stare. But I couldn't move, because when he looked into my eyes I felt it.
''A ing spark.''-I said out loud and he cocked his head to side. I took my purse and left the vip to breathe in some air. I found the back door and snuck out. I cannot believe this. He is so out of my legue. And he wasn't my type. Since when do I have a type? Excuses. I have never been in love before. I had a boyfriend but it didn't last long. Guess what? No spark. But this isn't happening. Why a guy I don't even know? I am not a er for fame or money so I could cross that out. I lit my cigarette and tried to convince myself I didn't feel anything in there but when the door opens and Simon steps out. My heart is telling me that I couldn't be wronger. He put his snapback on low on his eyes and looked around. He came to me and took my cigarette. I was about to protest thinking he would throw it away but instead he took a long drag then handed it to me again. He was sweaty and he smelled of alcohol. But it was hot on him.

''You don't like it?''-Simon asked.
''What?''-I asked. He nodded twoard the door.
''This kind of parties.''-he said.
''I don't know. This is my first time. But I guess I do like it. Why?''-I ask.
''Well you kinda looked pissed off and you left so I thought you weren't impressed.''-Simon asked taking the cigarette from me again. I took out my pack and offered him one but he shook his head. ''I prefer it this way.''-he said. I think it was less probable he'd get caught smoking that way.

''You were cool.''-I said after few moments of silence. He smirked.

''I know.''-he said and looked over my shoulder. I was about to mention his cockyness when he cursed silently in korean. I wanted to turn around to see what he was seeing but he grabbed my elbow and pulled me inside the club. I pulled away from his grasp but he didn't even turn around and kept walking. I still felt his fingers where he touched my skin. I hated the tingling sensation he left. We came to vip and he leaned down to whisper in Jay's ear. I couldn't make out anything from his expression. Jay made a mocking face and shrugged. Simon took off his hat and ran his fingers trough his hair. He sat down and gulped a drink. I sat across him not wanting to be within his reach. His eyes lifted but never landed on me. He was looking behind me. His expression slitly pained. A girl passed by where I was sitting, smell of her parfume hitting my nostrills hard. I wrinkled my nose and a guy next to me, I think Hep, laughed as if to tell me to get used to it. The girl approached Simon and squeezed herself between Jay and him. Jay nodded to say hi but paid no attention afterwards. The girl draped an arm over his shoulder and Simon clearly had no intention of moving it. He was on his phone now so I guess he was used to it. Used to her. I let out a snort and Hep heard. He leaned twoard me.

''That's Lady Jane.''-he said. I got caught.

''Who?''-I asked faking ignorance. He nodded twoard the girl. And I say 'oh', again, fakely.

''They are on and off all the time.''-he said. Let it go dude, I am not interested. But I bet my face tells a different story. A girl stepped on the stage. She was beautiful, curvy with long silverish hair. I remembered her from earlier. CL. I was thinking she's so nice so it surprised me when she yelled 'hello es' on the stage and the crowd went berzerk. She was a rap queen. Queen among kings. So cool. I stood up and leaned on the railing again. Gray came to me.
''Wanna go somewhere with me?''-he asked. Wanting to take my eyes off Simon I nodded. It was too late when I realized the stairs he chose weren't the ones leading out but on stage. I stagered forward and Gray caught my hand, we joined CL and he started jumping to the rythm. The crowd was in the zone so they didn't even notice me. She started a new song called mental breakdown I think and I got into my zone too. Moving to the rythm, having fun. Gray laughed at my poor choice of mooves but I laughed with him. Why couldn't it be this easy. If it was Gray it would be bliss. In that thought I glanced up on the railing seeing Simon and Lady Jane haven't moved from their spots and positions. I felt a pang of jealousy but then I realized Simon was looking down at me. The pang dissapeared but still the arm around his shoulders was clearly making a teritory mark and I know when to back off, even tho I haven't even made a step forward.

6.

It was about five in the morning maybe even six when we finaly dissapeared one by one. Jay and I were last and my feet were killing me. He was paying the bill and I sat on the stool at the bar since the club was mostly empty now. I was buzzed so I asked the waiter for a glass of water. The icyness of it almost made my teeth fall off. The waiter who was cleaning the glasses looked up and a smile spread across his face. He waived the rag in the air.

''Had a good night Simon?''-he asked and my stomach did a roll. Please go away.

''Sure thing Hee Jun. Always a good time.''-Simon said sitting in a stool beside me. I pretended not to notice him. ''Are you that drunk?''-he asked and I looked at him. Did I look drunk? ''Oh so you do notice me.''-he said.

''I'm a little buzzed.''-I say.
''Where's the Lady?''-waiter asked Simon who just shrugged.

''Don't know, don't care.''-he said. What a dickhead. I stood up as I saw Jay approaching us.

''Let's go. Ssam D you with us or nah?''-he asked.

''I'll pass.''-Simon said looking at the floor.

''U sure?''-Jay asked and Simon looked at him than at me.

''You don't mind?''-it sounded like he asked me but his eyes switched back to Jay.

''What's up with you? Let's go.''-he said punching his shoulder almost knocking Simon over. I laughed a little.

Well that was a long ride, but at least now I know where Simon lives. I smirked to myself.

''What you smiling about? Did you have a good time?''-Jay asked and I managed to nodd I was dead tired. ''I'm glad. Hurry inside. Good night.''-he said as I hopped out off the car. When I got to the office I threw myself on the sofa only to almost end up with a stab wound. Something sharp was jabbing me in the ribbs. I took it out and inspected the keys in my hands. Those weren't mine. A gold touch to every keychain told me they must be Simons. I threw them on the table. I ran into the bathroom and took off my make up and hopped in the shower for a quick wash. I pulled on a Red Hot Chilli Peppers extra large shirt and threw myself on the sofa again and burried myself in blankets. It felt so good. I eyed the keys on the table and reached out to take them. I pulled my finger through one of the hoops and kept them in my fist.

It was sunday and nobody came to the office today so I got to sleep in. I slept until noon and felt never better. I still didn't want to move so I stayed in bed and the radio. Got to admit after yesterday I am in the mood for all sorts of Korean music. Some boy band name NCT was on and soon I was swaying my hands around in rythm. A knock came on the door and snaped me out of my little music world. I stared at the door and figured that if I don't answer, whoever it is, will go away. The music wasn't loud anyway. But in few minutes the knock came louder and I sighed.
''You cannot still be sleeping.''-deep voice said behind the door. I wanted to slap myself for the damn butterflies in my stomach. After a few seconds of ignoring him he let himself in and I threw a pillow at him which he caught mid air. ''Did I offend you in any way?''-Simon aksed.
''No, why?''-I ask when he threw the pillow back.

''Well you keep ignoring me.''-he said as he looked over the table and sofa. His eyes landed on my hand. In which I held his keys tightly. ''Can I have those?''-he asked. I bet my face was matching a tomato. I gave them to him and I swear his fingers lingered on mine for a few second before he put the keys in his pocket. Our look switched to the radio where a song was on and I recognized Jay's voice. I smiled proudly. Simon looked at me but I didn't have the nerve to return ithe look. I don't know why but if it was any other guy I just wouldn't care I would just be my closed off self but somehow I didn't want to be rude to him or chase him away even tough I ignore him somtimes but that is for a greater good. I know he could do me more damage than good.

''I just woke up.''-I say without an aparent reason. He stares blankly at me.
''What?''-he asked.

''I didn't ignore you I was to lazy to get up.''-I say finally looking at him. He laughed a little crookedly. So cute.

''You could have said 'come in'.''-Simon said.

''I didn't know it was you.''-I say. He an eyebrow.

''So if it were me you would let me in?''-he asked and I shrugged. ''Are you that comfortable around me or you just don't care it's me?''-he asked. He looked like he was in a real dillema.

''If I didn't care that it was you than I would have let anybody in.''-I say. He tought about it for a second then nodded.

''Do you like this song?''-he pointed to the radio.

''Yeah why?''-he reached for the remote snd turned it off. The ? He grabbed his phone and ploped down next to me on the sofa. He searched through the playlist until he reached the song named Mommae and played it. It was the same song. ''But why did you turn it off to play it again?''-I asked and he shushed me. He put the phone in my hand and leaned back with legs stretched in front. I listened and realized it was a little different. A remix. This time a girl was in it too. I was about to give his phone back but my hand stopped. He had a part in the song. Since my hand was midway he reached to grab the phone but I pulled away. I gasped and laughed. Loudly.

''What? What is it?''-Simon asked.

''You said .''-I managed to say between catching my breath. I don't know why it was so funny but tears were at the corners of my eyes. He laughed a little by little and he was fully laughing too now. He stood up when his phone ringed and took it from me to answer. When he opened the door to the office he turned slightly.
''I said 'my so solid'. Is that funny too?''-he asked and left. Leaving me red in the face and completely serious. I felt heat all over.

''Damn.''-I said and threw myself back on the sofa.