[ Key ]

The monotonous yet upbeat music blared from the surrounding speakers, clothes of various colors and designs hung in perfect arrangement, lights followed the walking figures on the runway, make up artists held a handful of cosmetics for their assigned models -- this was what I lived for.

Tall, skinny, long-legged, flawless men and women stood in line, waiting for their turn to hog the spotlight. Self-confidence -- the one thing that every model can't ever lose. Confidence is a model's greatest weapon. It wasn't an inquiry, it was a firm statement.

Face padded with thick make up, I slipped in my bare arms on the multi-colored vest while my now curled blonde locks were being abused with a spray net. Eye make-up, foundation over applied BB cream, lip gloss -- my skin could only take so much.

"Why are you so pretty, Key-ah?"
One of the stylists working with my hair mumbled.

A small blush crept on my cheeks and I opened my mouth to answer a shy 'thank you'. This caused her to coo and pinch my cheeks but her hands were swatted away by my make up artist. The cosmetics professional flared down the hair stylist for ruining her work on my face, not that it changed anything.

"But really, Key, out of all the models we encountered, you're exceptionally beautiful for a guy. And not to mention you're very down to earth. No wonder Sang Baek-oppa chose you over her."

My cheeks were now tainted a shade of pink as she continued to touch my skin with the brush. Receiving compliments from other people wasn't exactly new to me, just something I need to get used to.

"Key-umma, it's going to be my turn soon! They're asking you to go on standby. You don't want to disappoint the sponsors now, do you?" Taemin announced as he walked in the dressing room, circling his arms around my waist from behind.

I gradually turned around and hugged him back, smile widening as I caught sight of his outfit. The gray top that was tailored diagonally, exposing half of his flat stomach, really suited him.

"I'm almost done, Tae." I informed. "Take your place in line with the others. Strut it, alright?"

He nodded enthusiastically and pumped his fist in the air in time with his 'hwaiting' that almost caused me my death. He skipped out of the room with his long auburn hair swaying from side to side. As soon as he was out, the stylists worked on my hair and make up for the final touches before mouthing the word 'perfect' like proud parents.

This wasn't my first runway, no, but this was my first time being the highlight of a fashion show, my first time strutting the designer's pride. I was beyond nervous.

The coordinators were about to me out of the room when a sudden knock came. One of the noonas opened the door, revealing a large bouquet of pink and white roses. I ignored the commotion thinking it wasn't any of my business and decided to take steps out of the room.

"Key-ah!"

I turned around when I heard Yunhee, my personal stylist assigned by my agency, calling me. She was fast approaching with the flowers cradled in her arms. A playful grin pasted itself on her face as she spoke.

"A strawberry shortcake, a variety of candies, a gallon of vanilla ice cream, and now a bouquet of roses. This is the fourth time this week, Key-ah. Whoever this JH is, he sure knows how to make you blush!"

And her words became real for I felt the blood rise up on my cheeks.

I took the bouquet from her and smelled the sweet scent of the roses. Yunhee has been my make-up artist since I debuted as a model and through those two years and a half, she has known of my attraction for both es.

But of course none about us were told. I value your career as much as you do.

When you decided to be an idol, you became everybody's lover.

A small card was stuck on one of the thorn less stems and I immediately plucked it out to read.

Nervous? Don't be! I'm sure you'll do well, Bummie!
You're more beautiful than these flowers! Hwaiting!

-JH

P.S.
Friends are allowed to do this!

I bit my lip, trying to hold back a smile. I felt like giggling but the time wasn't right. A fashion show awaited.

"Yunhee-noona, will you hold this for me until after the show?"

She nodded with a smile, taking the flowers from me as I turned to my heel and headed towards the line of models. All anxieties were long gone, just a confident smile bloomed after receiving such a present.

Friends are allowed to do this, your words rang like bells inside my head. What was the name of that song again, Ring Ding Dong?

I took a risk, a huge one at that, when I let you be near me again. But you were just like Taemin, you will always have a special place in my heart.

As the other models turned in after flaunting the respective clothes by the designer, my heart grew excited. In your eyes, I was still beautiful. And no matter how absurd and ridiculous it seemed, that simple thought calmed my nerves down like no other media can.

With a deep breath, I shut my eyes tight for a second or two before opening them again to meet the blinding flashes of the cameras. Sponsors, known fashion designers, fashion editors and journalists, and the designer himself sat on their seats beside the ramp, their high anticipation for the newly found 'star model' written all over their faces. How classy and elegant I could present the clothes to them without a single flaw -- they meant serious business.

With my chin held high, I took my first step with only the thoughts of last Saturday night's events in mind.

You can't, you can't, don't leave me like this.
Please just one more time, one more time...
Hold me in your arms again.

I halted my steps as the blowing wind carried your sweet voice to me -- pleading, begging.

But I can't let my defense fall with just one song. So I started walking away once more, only to be stopped the second time around.

"You... can't... Just one more time..."

I inhaled sharply at your words, keeping myself from running back into your arms. But five years of being hopelessly and irrevocably in love with you wasn't really helping my situation.

"Baby... please."

That did it. I just couldn't fully turn my back on you. I whipped my head back to face you, expecting to find you standing. The scene I faced was heartbreaking.

Never in my life have I imagined you down on your knees, hands clutching onto your chest while a river of tears overflow in your eyes. Five seconds. That was how long it took for my barriers to crack.

"Friends."
I whispered to the cold night air.
"That's as far as you go."

"Great job, everyone! Shall we give ourselves a round of applause?"
Designer Ha Sang Baek's happy voice filled the surrounding air backstage, thanking each and every one who participated to make the fashion show a success. Stylists, directors, PA's, and models alike clapped enthusiastically to congratulate the designer for his hard work.

An after-party was set the same night and I initially intended to go and have fun with my co-workers. But when two great individuals came to approach me, a sudden change of plans was needed.

"Key-ssi?"
I felt a light tap on my shoulder as Ha Sang Baek grabbed my attention.

A tall, american lady with long, blonde hair curled on the ends stood beside him, wearing a black halter dress matched with silver pumps. She had beautiful emerald eyes that compliment her smooth skin. I was awe-strucked by her mere appearance...

And I knew exactly who she was and what she does.

The only unknown entity was why someone as awesome as her was standing before me.

"I assume you already know who this lovely lady is?"
The designer spoke in english, bringing the foreigner forward with a hand gesture.

"Yes, Sir. I know very well who she is. Good evening, Ms. Lena Reed. It's an honour to meet you."
I respectfully greeted in her language as I bowed to show my gratitude of having to meet her.

LenaReed. The famous fashion critic from New York who was also known to collaborate works with another outstanding designer, Jeremy Scott.

For her to even be breathing the same air as me was a dream come true.

"A fine evening to you, too. Kim Kibum, is it?"
She smiled sweetly and slightly bowed, which impressed me since she wasn't from our culture.

Wait. Did she just call me by my full name?

She did. Didn't she?

My eyes widened at the sudden realization, but I managed to mumble an intimidated 'yes'. She chuckled for a reason I wasn't told about and spoke.

"I know you have a handful of activities, Kibum, so I won't beat around the bush."
She paused for a moment to have some sort of eye conversation with the designer beside her before turning her attention back to me.

"Do you like airplanes?"

The rest of the night was cold, with raindrops splatting randomly on the van's windows. The streets were slippery, causing all vehicles to slow down and eventually cause traffic. There was that fear again -- the possibility of a storm.

I guessed that summer was nearing its end.

A few blocks passed and my manager finally pulled over in front of the apartment building.

"Will you be fine on your own, Kid?"
My devoted manager asked, his voice full of concern.

"Yes, Hyung. Stop worrying too much."

I unbuckled my seatbelt as he opened the heavy door and held an umbrella over my head to keep me from getting wet. With baby steps, I safely made it inside and thanked him for working so hard.

Tired, sleepy, afraid, torn, and in a way happy -- I was having my emotions mixed and was no where near liking it.

As I stepped out of the elevator and walked in front of my door, I couldn't help but send a glance at the old hare's. At times like this, it would have been nice for him to keep me company, though he wasn't really the person to person calm my nerves down in the midst of a storm -- tried that already and it didn't work.

The door unlocked with a ping as the correct code was inputted and I dragged myself in. The wall clock read ten-seventeen in the evening. There was just no way out if ever the heavy rain turned into something worse. I guess I just have to deal with it alone, I thought with a brave heart.

My feet brought me to the kitchen and in front of one of the drawers. I couldn't let the roses die. With the bundle of flowers in one hand, I fished out an unused transluscent vase that was just the right fit for the roses. It didn't take me long to fill the ceramic with clean water and arrange the flowers in it. I have given much thought as to where to place the flower-filled vase and when the decision was made, I smiled unconsciouly.

Flowers are weak.
They are naive.
They reassure themselves as best they can.
They believe that their thorns are terrible.

That quote from from a book I have read ran through my thoughts.

The flowers needed warmth, this, I placed them perfectly where the ball of fire can envelope them with heat, though they have to wait for the sky to clear.

I knew it was wrong -- letting you linger in my mind like this was wrong.

I thought I clearly drew a line, a boundary between friends and lovers. Should I re-think about you being in the friend zone again?

While my string of thoughts went on and on, I didn't realize I brought them with me in the shower until I reached the confines of my bed. There was another thing that I didn't realize, though.

The weather's sudden outrcy.

I wrapped the thick blanket around my tensed body, my palms blocking my ears from hearing the anger of the thunders. Thor's lightning bolts flew across the dark clouds, making my heart beat rapidly as memories of the past repeat themselves inside my head.

I shook away the ill memories. I shrieked as the sound of a roaring thunder penetrated my covered ears. How much longer until the rain subsides? Will I be able to endure until the sky settles down?

A sudden buzz from my bedside table diverted my cowering and it dawned on me that there was an incoming call. I debated whether or not to risk moving from my protection of my queen-sized bed. After thinking it through, I decided to ignore the call. I was too much of a coward to peek out from the sheets.

But whoever was on the other end of the call must be pretty persistent because my phone kept wiggling on the wooden desk, the buzzing noise almost made me forget about the thunder. With shaky limps, I crawled my way out of the covers and answered the damn mobile.

"Y-yeoboseyo?"

"Open... the goddamn... door."
A hoarse and panting voice answered.

It was hard to tell who the voice belonged to because of the heavy breath that went with it. So I didn't utter a word, didn't move an inch.

"Door code..."

Before I could say another word to answer, I was reminded yet again by the sudden clapping of the sky of just how much I hate being in a situation like this. I almost lost my hold on the mobile when it happened, wishing I could just hide in a deep hole.

"TELL ME THE DOOR CODE, DAMN IT!"

I was startled to hear the voice I least expected to be calling. With the tone used, I knew very well not to object.

"052508"
The day we first met.

Fate truly is amazing, isn't it?

The whole week has been packed with photoshoots and interviews, I successfully joined Ha Sang Baek's fashion show, I received unexpected gifts from you albeit you claimed the gestures as a friend's.

And to top it all, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity was given.

"Bummie!"

But as soon as my door slammed open, I was met by beautiful brown orbs owned by the very reason why I had to delay such a rare opportunity to happen.

[ Jonghyun ]

"Jonghyun, where are you going?"

I turned around, brows knitted in worry.

"Hyung, can you do me a favor? If someone starts looking for me, tell them I went home because I wasn't feeling well. Thanks, Hyung!"

There was no other way. If I stayed here, I knew for sure I would only regret it later. Therefore, I had to sneak out.

SM Town rehearsals can wait, but you can't. I've made a lot of mistakes in the past, some even unforgivable. But you miraculously gave me another chance to be near you again, although forgiveness was still a little vague. Who ever said I couldn't make you my first priority?

"Hyung, take me to Onew-hyung's place please. Hurry!"
I begged my manager to drive the van all the way to your flat, almost dragging him out of SM Entertainment.

During the ride, questions were asked but I answered as curtly as possible. I was losing focus of everything, except for thoughts of you. Just a few stop lights away from you, just a little more time. But because of the heavy rain, streets were jammed. It was devastating to hear those thunders boom and know that you were alone in your room, eyes moist in fear.

"Hyung, why aren't we moving?" I snarled.

"There's a collision ahead, Jonghyun-ah. I don't think we'll be moving anytime soo-"

I didn't let him finish his sentence. Instead, I put my hood up and got out of the van. I would get scolding but nevertheless, I still ran.

I ran like a madman just to get to you.

I ran as fast as my short limbs could.

By the time I reached the lobby, I was soaked but I didn't care. I pressed the elevator button to no end until it finally opened and I stepped inside. It felt like an eternity has passed before the lift stopped at the designated floor. It was a good thing that only Onew and you occupied the floor, though I would never admit the pang of jealousy I felt whenever I thought about it.

After pressing the door bell a few times, I got worried. You weren't coming out.

Why the does Onew-hyung know your door code and I don't?

My hand reached for my pocket on instinct and pulled my phone out. My thumb pressed '1', the only speed dial I have stored. I was thankful that finally, after a tremendous amount of persuading, I got hold of your new digits.

"Y-yeoboseyo?"

.
I was a minute too late. Fear was already evident in your voice.

"Open... the goddamn... door."
I didn't realize I was panting from running until I heard my own voice break.

The other end of the line was silent and I wondered if you were doing alright.

"Door code..."

Still, silence greeted me.

The thunders roared, and all I wanted to do was to hold you in my arms, take away your fear.

"TELL ME THE DOOR CODE, DAMN IT!"
I exploded. I was never a patient soul to begin with.

"052508"

For a second, I stood frozen.

The day we first met.

I had to shake off all other issues or I wouldn't be able to get to you. I just have to dwell on my emotions later. I managed to unlock the door with the given code and almost immediately, I kicked off my shoes, running towards your room and busting in.

"Bummie!"

[ Sekyung ]

"Another script for a drama, Jessica?"
I asked, noticing the bundle of papers in her hands.

"Kind of."
She answered, pausing for a moment while the stylist of the salon fixed her lip gloss.
"I'm doing a Music Video with Key."

Key. Kim Kibum?

"Could it be... Kim Kibum? Etude House's new endorser?"

"Yes. Isn't he great?"
Her eyes sparkled as she admired the model.
"Perhaps, do you know him?"

I pursed my lips and smiled.

Oh, I know him.
I know him very well, you'll be surprised...

A/N:

Chapter dedicated to three wonderful individuals who deserve everybody's recognition:

Minapple
For reviewing my previous fic, Blood Bruise! Seriously, I learned a lot from the review!

Cherry_Petals
For giving me medical advice regarding my aching hand. My hand wouldn't have healed
properly if it wasn't for her!

myungsoo27
For the super awesome poster! Really, people, let's give her a round of applause for
her hard work! You can visit her shop at || D O U B L E D Graphics™.