August 3, 2021

Hyunseung had been contemplating his future and had come to the difficult decision to leave Cube Entertainment. As he entered the Cube building, he could feel a mix of nostalgia and determination coursing through his veins. The modern glass facade reflected the sunlight, casting a warm glow on the entrance. The interior was spacious and sleek, with the company's logo prominently displayed on the walls. The building had been a second home to Hyunseung for so many years, and every corner held memories of his time there.

From the practice rooms where he spent countless hours perfecting his dance moves and vocals to the recording studios where he poured his heart and soul into his music, each space held a special place in his heart. The hallway walls were adorned with framed photos of Cube's artists, both past and present, a testament to their achievements and the company's history.

As he walked through the familiar halls, Hyunseung couldn't help but feel a wave of emotions wash over him. He had spent so much of his life within these walls, and now he was leaving it all behind. But with every end comes a new beginning, and he was determined to make the most of the opportunities that awaited him outside of Cube Entertainment.

Hyunseung approached the producer's office, taking a deep breath before knocking on the door.

"Hyunseung, what can I do for you?"

Hyunseung, with a bittersweet smile: "I think it's time, sajangnim."

The producer flashed a confused smile: "Time for what?"

"To take my photo down, and the one with Hyuna and me as well."

The producer knew what he meant - the photos that represented Hyunseung's time with Cube and his collaboration with Hyuna. They were symbols of his years of hard work and dedication to the company.

After discussing the details, Hyunseung carefully penned his letter of resignation. Cube Entertainment accepted his decision and officially released him from his contract.

In a heartfelt statement, the company bid farewell to Jang Hyunseung:

"We would like to deliver our sincere words of gratitude to Jang Hyunseung, who worked with Cube Entertainment for the past 11 years since 2009. We also thank the fans who gave their love toward Jang Hyunseung and his music promotions endlessly, and we ask that you all continue to support and encourage him in his future activities. We will always cheer on Jang Hyunseung's new path. Thank you."

As Hyunseung walked out of the Cube building, his photo removed from the wall along with the one of him and Hyuna, he couldn't help but feel a sense of closure. He decided to take the photo of him and Hyuna with him as a memento of their time together.

He knew that leaving Cube was the beginning of a new chapter in his life, one filled with uncertainty but also endless possibilities.

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Hyuna was in the middle of her busy schedule when her phone suddenly rang. It was Kim Shin Young, a close friend and fellow artist. She quickly answered the call, curious about the urgency in Kim Shin Young's voice.

"Hyuna, have you heard the news? Hyunseung is no longer with Cube. He's going solo."

Hyuna's heart skipped a beat as she tried to process the information: "What? Are you serious? How did you find out?"

 "I heard it from a reliable source, and it's about to hit the wires. I thought you should know before it becomes public."

Hyuna thanked her friend and hung up the phone, her mind racing with thoughts and concerns about Hyunseung. She knew that going solo could be both an exciting and challenging prospect. She couldn't help but feel nervous about the possibility of what this decision would mean for Hyunseung's future.

In other words, would he be able to handle the pressures and demands of being a solo artist? She remembered the long hours they had spent together as a duo in Troublemaker, the teamwork and support they had shared, and wondered if he would be able to replicate that same level of success on his own.

Hyuna wanted to reach out to Hyunseung and offer her support, but she hesitated, unsure if her words would be welcomed or if they would only add to his burden. As she continued with her daily activities, she couldn't shake her concern for her friend and former collaborator. She hoped that, despite the challenges ahead, Hyunseung would find his own path and thrive as a solo artist.

That same afternoon, Hyuna entered Psy's office, her mind still preoccupied with Hyunseung's news, only to find Psy locked in an argument with Jessi. She hesitated at the door, unsure if she should interrupt or wait for a better moment.

Jessi, clearly frustrated, raised her voice: "You interfere too much, Psy! You're the CEO of the label, but that doesn't mean you have to micromanage everything!"

Psy, visibly tired from the confrontation, tried to defend himself: "I'm only trying to make sure our artists are well-prepared for their albums. It's important for the label's success."

Jessi stormed out of the room, leaving Psy to gather his thoughts. Hyuna took this opportunity to approach him and share her concerns.

"Psy, I wanted to talk to you about something important."

Psy turned towards her, "Hyuna, I don't have time for personal matters right now. You need to focus on promoting with Dawn. I've already talked to him, and he knows not to let you out of his sight."

Hyuna felt her heart sink as Psy continued: "This is crucial for the label, Hyuna. You and Dawn are a major part of our success, and we can't afford any distractions right now."

As she listened to Psy's words, Hyuna couldn't help but feel as if she was back at Cube Entertainment. She hated the feeling of being controlled and pressured, and she had hoped her new label would be different. The heavy burden of responsibility and the need to maintain appearances were once again weighing on her shoulders, making her question her own happiness and freedom.

With a forced smile, Hyuna nodded in agreement and left the office, her concerns about Hyunseung momentarily pushed aside as she grappled with her own emotions and the demands of her career.

After leaving the office, Hyuna went straight home, her emotions spiraling out of control. Once she closed the door behind her, she felt her chest tightening, her heart racing, and her breath becoming short and shallow. She was having a panic attack.

Desperate for someone to talk to, she hesitated for a moment before deciding to reach out to Hyunseung instead of Dawn. She sent him a text, trying to sound casual despite her current state.

Hyuna: "Hey, I heard the news. Congratulations on going solo! I hope you're doing well. Can we meet up soon?"

Hyunseung, sensing that she needed someone to talk to, replied quickly.

Hyunseung: "Thanks, Hyuna. I appreciate your support. Let's meet up at the Buramsan Butterfly Garden soon. It's a peaceful place, and I think we could both use some time away from the chaos."

Hyuna took a deep breath, trying to calm herself down as she read his message. She felt a small sense of relief knowing that she could confide in someone who understood her struggles.

She responded, her fingers shaking slightly as she typed.

Hyuna: "That sounds perfect. I'll see you there soon."

With plans to meet up, Hyuna focused on her breathing, reminding herself to take slow, deep breaths. As her panic attack subsided, she couldn't help but feel gratitude for Hyunseung's understanding but fears about their future.