Kim Garam, a new member joined after 2 months. She has a 10 year gap with the older member, Minha. The thing that worried Minha finally happened. In fact, it was more terrible than she thought.

 

The day after the youngest member arrived, she texted her sister, Minhee. Literally, letting out her nightmare to her loyal listener about having a young member in the team. 10 year gap? Knetz will get crazy when they find out about this. 5/6 year gap is still okay but 10 years? Minha was stressed.

 

The stress wasn't about the new girl, but herself instead. Debating her decision to debut with this age again and again. But she signed the contract, she can't turn back time.

 

While other members are getting closer to each other, Garam is so timid compared to Chaewon, with an extra awkward person. She's young, sweet, tall and she's so pretty. She's a high school student.

 

She joined them to practice everyday after school. Despite being so stressed about the big , Minha is actually happy to have another sister to take care of.

 

She can't help but to grow fond of the youngest. She knows Garam is having trouble trying to get herself comfortable and to be close with other members, so she makes the first move to be Garam's friend. As an introvert herself, she knows the struggle of meeting new people.

 

Knowing that Garam is shy and introverted, Minha often initiates conversations with her. She asks about her day, her interests, and her feelings, making Garam feel seen and heard.

 

Understanding that Garam is juggling both school and her idol career, Minha offers to help her with her schoolwork. She assists her with homework, studies with her for tests, and provides advice on managing her time effectively.

 

Minha often prepares meals and snacks for Garam, especially on free days. She makes sure Garam is eating well and taking care of her health.

 

Minha makes an effort to create a comfortable living environment for Garam. She ensures that Garam has her own space in the dorm, helps her decorate her room, and respects her need for quiet time. She is always there for Garam when she needs someone to talk to. She listens to her worries, offers advice, and provides comfort and reassurance.

 

Minha makes sure to include Garam in group activities. Whether it's practicing for performances, watching movies together, or just hanging out in the dorm, Minha ensures that Garam feels included and part of the group.

 

Minha helped to prepare her school uniform every weekend. She loves taking care of them, her precious sisters. That is why, everyone is comfortable the most with her. And it didn't take a long time for Garam to be close with her.


 

Monday.

Garam woke up as usual, 45 minutes before the manager dropped her at the school gate. At this time, she usually can hear Minha cooking in the kitchen. She can smell something good from her room and decides to take a look at the older member.

 

"Good morning unnie~" she greets from behind but stops herself when she realizes someone who is cooking is not Minha. "Oh Garamie? Good morning!" Sakura smiles at the confused girl.

 

"Before you ask, I just wanna tell you that Minha unnie left to see the doctor 30 minutes ago. Unnie has a fever and her condition is bad. She was sorry that she couldn't cook for you this morning." Sakura left the kitchen, and put the nicely prepared lunch box in front of the youngest.

 

"I cooked your favorite, hope you like it." Garam is actually touched.

 

All this time, it's always Minha preparing everything for her as the oldest. She just didn't expect Sakura to do the same when Minha is not around. She's okay if she can't bring lunch box everyday, she can just eat in the cafeteria.

 

"Kkura unnie...thank you. I appreciate it a lot." she pouted, feeling touched with the Japanese. "I'm sorry if I made you wake up so early in the morning just to cook for my-" the older girl wraps her arm around her with a smile.

 

"No no, don't say that. I care about you as much as I care about others. I know Minha unnie woke up early almost everyday to do this for you, and I just want you to know anyone else will do the same thing okay? We love you, and we want the best for you." she can't help but hugs the older girl tightly.

 

"Thank you unnie. I love unnie too!" a gentle pat at the back and Sakura accompany her to the front door. "I'll see you at the practice room after school okay? Eat well, and update us if there is anything!" she went to school after Sakura sent her off.


 

At the same time, Yunjin came out of her room, rubbing her sleepy eyes. "Good morning, Kkura unnie." the Japanese turn around to see the tall girl. "Morning Yunjin. I'm sorry, did my voice wake you up? I was about to leave, I cooked for Garam's lunch box earlier." the tall girl was confused.

 

"Where is Minha unnie? Isn't she the one who always cooks for our maknae?" the young girl questioned as Sakura walked back to the kitchen naturally.

 

She took out fresh cut fruits and put them on the table. "I cut it for you because I know you always wake up early." Yunjin is wearing her cute glasses, smiling, as she sits on the dining chair.

 

"Minha unnie has a fever and manager oppa brought her to the doctor. So I cooked for our maknae today." Yunjin frowned when she heard the update.

 

"Unnie worked so hard lately. She spends so much time at the vocal room and back to back to practice with us." Sakura sighed, agreed with the tall girl.

 

They know how Minha worked lately when she participated in writing lyrics and a few more stuff. The schedules are already full and hectic for all of them but the oldest member seems to do more than everyone else.

 

"The reason why PD-nims trusted her more than anyone else. Unnie is so hard working and I think, that's one important thing we should learn from her. I heard a few things about unnie from people, and most of it is about her hardworking. To add up more, unnie is so compassionate. Look at how she treated us. She helped us to gain confidence, she helped us to improve at everything." Minha is guiding them so well during practice and they relied so much on her.

 

Minha's commitment to her work sets a high standard for the rest of the group. Seeing her put in extra hours, whether it's in the vocal room or during practice, shows the others the level of dedication required to succeed.

 

Minha's actions speak louder than words. Her willingness to go the extra mile, even when she's tired or unwell, motivates the others to push through their own challenges and give their best.

 

Her dedication isn't just about her own work. She's equally committed to supporting the other members, whether it's helping them with their parts, giving them advice, or simply being there for them. This creates a supportive environment that encourages everyone to work harder.

 

By showing confidence in her own abilities and working hard to improve, Minha inspires the others to believe in themselves and their potential. This boost in self-confidence can motivate them to work harder and aim higher.

 

Minha's dedication to the group's success over her own individual achievements promotes a sense of teamwork and unity. This can inspire the others to work harder for the benefit of the group as a whole.

 

"Seeing how unnie love working like that, makes me wanna do the same thing too." Yunjin with her puppy eyes, grateful to have Minha in the S team. They just can't imagine the group without Minha, because they might give up at the work out session.

 

When they say they might give up from the very start in the workout session without Minha, it implies a few things. Minha is likely the driving force during their workout sessions. Her presence, energy, and determination motivate the others to push through, even when the exercises are tough. Without her, they might lack the motivation to start or continue the workout.

 

As the oldest member, Minha probably takes on a leadership role during workouts, guiding the others and ensuring they're doing the exercises correctly. Without her guidance, the others might feel lost or unsure about what to do.

 

During challenging moments in the workout, Minha's encouraging words and positive attitude likely help the others to keep going. Without her encouragement, they might feel more inclined to give up when things get tough.

 

Seeing Minha work hard and persevere during workouts sets a strong example for the others. Without her as a role model, they might not feel as inspired to push themselves.

 

In essence, Minha's presence during workouts is crucial for the group's motivation, guidance, encouragement, and inspiration. Without her, the workouts might seem more daunting, and the members might be more likely to give up from the start.


 

Garam's day at school might be affected by Minha's absence in several ways. She might find herself worrying about Minha throughout the day. Knowing that Minha is unwell and not being able to be there for her could cause Garam to feel anxious and distracted.

 

Garam is used to Minha's morning routine of preparing her lunch and sending her off to school. Without Minha, her morning might feel different and a bit lonely. But when Sakura stepping in to prepare her lunch might make Garam appreciate the effort Minha puts in every day. This could make her feel more grateful and loved.

 

Knowing that Minha and the rest of the group are supporting her might motivate Garam to do her best at school. She might want to make them proud and show them that their support is not in vain.

 

Garam might be looking forward to after school more than usual. She would be eager to return to the dorm and check on Minha, and also share her day with the rest of the group.


 

*******


 

Today is another rest day for them, no practice and no workout routine, so they can rest for the whole day. Unlike the members who prefer staying home watching tv, Yunjin leaves for her grandma's house to celebrate her 21st birthday and Minha is going out to see her old friends at her favorite cafe. She's visiting the cafe as a regular customer and all the workers know her.

 

"Omo~ Our popular friend is here!!" the cashier shouted happily, it was empty at the time. They know about her joining Hybe, but purposely didn't ask about the details to feel the hype with everyone else and of course, they didn't want to invade her privacy as a trainee.

 

"As usual?" Minha nodded to the cashier with a bright smile on her face. She walks to her usual empty spot on the corner, with a beautiful view.

 

While waiting for her drink, Minha is scrolling on her Iphone, looking at the articles about S team members. "Oh? What is this?" her eyebrows twitched at the new article related to the maknae, Garam.

 

She can sense something bad but chose to read it later when she's home. "Your drink~" she thanked the male worker and took a sip of her Ice Vanilla Latte. The male worker is looking around before taking a seat in front of Minha.

 

"Sorry for disturbing you, but allow me to sit here please." she grinned at the guy, still sipping on her drink.

 

"Can I ask you something, nuna?" Minha is looking at the cute guy with a nod. "I know about you joining Hybe and whatever, and I know you're going to be busy after your debut later. So as a regular customer since the last few years, can you not stop coming here after you get famous?" his eyes are so pleasing, Minha couldn't help but burst out laughing at him.

 

"I thought it was something serious..." Minha is still laughing at the young man. "It is serious to me and all of us, nuna. We can't lose a customer like you, nope. We don't want that." frowned at the thought of Minha stopping coming to their cafe.

 

"I'm just like everyone else, Jinhwan. Or probably a weirdo? I ordered an Ice Vanilla Latte most of the time, and only chocolate ice cream cake. Nothing special about me~" speaking of the cake, Minha's eyes are scanning the various cakes to find her favorite one.

 

"We have it tomorrow, nuna, can't make it today because of the late supplier." Jinhwan makes the older girl pouted in disappointment.

 

"But! Back to our topic, it's true that nothing is special about your orders. It's just that, we like you? We've been friends for so long, nuna. And I've been working here for 3 years, you literally saw me growing up!" another laughter from Minha.

 

Jinhwan's face is dead serious but she can't stop laughing. "Stop it, my stomach hurts!" Minha's eyes are getting teary because of laughing too much. Giving the one side eyes at the older girl, Jinhwan just sighs. "What do you mean 'we like you'? If you want to confess, do it in a proper way boy!"

 

"Okay yes I saw you growing up? You're a big boy now, a grown adult. I saw everyone else get taller, and here I am, getting old." wiping the tears on her left eye, Minha is finally calming down herself hoping that she can control herself from another laughter attack.

 

"Old but gold. Look, not everyone can be in Hybe right? Same agency with BTS? That's beyond my imagination, but you're so lucky, nuna. Who knows, you might bump into them one day?" Jinhwan is touching his own chin while imagining himself bumping into BTS. Minha slaps his shoulder.

 

"I think you're getting off the topic? What does bumping into them have to do with me stopping coming here? I can't relate? And I'm telling you, Hybe is bigger than what we thought. I trained for almost 3 months now, I never bump into anyone other than staff for my team." she takes another sip and leans on her seat, making herself comfortable.


 

After the short coffee break, Minha visits the clothes store for Yunjin's birthday present before going back to the dorm.

 

She decided to go to see the maknae next door. She then saw Garam, sitting in front of the TV with a gloomy face, hugging her knees to her chest. The young girl didn't even notice her standing at the front door. She looked at her phone, scrolling on the article she saved from the website earlier.

 

"THE NEW GIRL CASTED BY HYBE LABELS IS INVOLVED WITH A BULLYING CASE IN SCHOOL"

 

The big head title makes her frown in annoyance. She read everything before approaching the maknae. After a while, she takes a deep breath before making her way to the living room, taking a seat next to Garam.

 

Slowly taking the cold hand into hers, the maknae starts to sob, looking down on the floor. Minha's heart is aching, she pulls Garam into a hug and rubs her back as she whispers comforting words.

 

A few minutes later, the door is opened with Chaewon and Sakura with worried faces. They returned from somewhere and it looks like they just found out about the article as well. Minha is still hugging the crying Garam while looking at the members.

 

Without saying anything, they approach them and join the group hugs. Maybe it's not the right time to ask the maknae about the issue, yet. They decided to let the agency solve it for them before it got worse.

 

The agency can handle the bullying accusation in several ways to protect Garam and the group's reputation. The agency can conduct a thorough investigation into the accusations.

 

This could involve talking to Garam, her former classmates, teachers, and anyone else who might have relevant information. The goal would be to gather as much evidence as possible to either confirm or refute the accusations.

 

If the accusations are false, the agency could consider taking legal action against those spreading the rumors. This could serve as a deterrent against future false accusations.

 

The agency could release a public statement addressing the accusations. This statement could outline the steps they're taking to investigate the matter and reassure fans and the public that they're taking the situation seriously.

 

The agency can provide emotional and psychological support for Garam during this difficult time. This could involve counseling or other forms of mental health support. The agency could provide media training for the group to help them handle questions about the accusations in interviews and public appearances.

 

This can help them respond to such questions in a way that doesn't fuel the rumors or cause further damage to their reputation.

 

If the accusations turn out to be true, the agency will need to implement a damage control strategy. This could involve a sincere public apology from Garam, a commitment to making amends, and possibly some form of punishment or consequence to show that such behavior is not condoned.

 

These steps can help protect Garam and the group's reputation while ensuring that the situation is handled in a fair and transparent manner.


 

Later that night, Yunjin returned home also aware of what was happening. She read the article after the birthday party. The beep from the front door startled the Japanese. "Unnie..." Yunjin's voice was slow and sad, approaching Sakura sitting on the couch by herself.

 

As one of the older members, Sakura knows why Yunjin is looking so worried and sad so she just pulls the girl for a tight hug.

 

"Don't worry. She's asleep. Minha unnie is with her right now." a little pat on her back from Sakura somehow made her feel better.

 

"It was hard for her obviously. But we're here with her right? We won't let anyone hurt her." Yunjin letting out a sigh and nods.

 

"I'm sorry it turns out like this, but Happy Birthday Yunjin. We love you~" another wish before the day ends, at least to make the younger girl smile again for the last minute birthday wishes.

 

"Hey birthday girl~" Yunjin was about to thank the Japanese member when both of them heard the familiar voice from behind.

 

A smiling tall girl with a Ralph Lauren bag just came out from Garam's room. "Unnie..." Yunjin pouted as Minha pulled her for a hug. Sakura smiles and goes to the kitchen to have some drink, leaving the two to talk.

 

"You just arrived? How was your birthday party?" they sat on the couch, with Minha still holding on the girl's cold hand.

 

The weather is a bit cold because of heavy rain today. "Everything is good, unnie. My grandma cooked a lot of food. Good food to fill my stomach. I'm so happy today, I had time to see my family even just for a while." smiling as she listened to the young girl.

 

Yunjin may be one of the tallest members, but she is still young. Minha adored this bright girl, she is just a sunshine. "I'm glad you can spend your special day with loved ones. Happy tummy and happy face." Minha pokes the nose as the younger girl cutely scrunches her nose.

 

"I don't know if you like this or not, but I spent so long choosing this." she took the Ralph Lauren bag and handed it to Yunjin.

 

"Your birthday present. Happy Birthday Jen, I can't wait to celebrate your next birthday with all of us. I love you~" the American was too stunned by the expensive gift. Her eyes brimmed with tears as she thanked the sweet sister. "Thank you unnie...thank you..." they ended up hugging again, but a little longer this time.


 

*******


 

It's already November, and they're practicing everyday lessons. They continue working hard for the dance and vocal lessons. Debut date still has not been confirmed yet but they know it's near.

 

Another new member was cast a few days ago but she had an issue with the visa, so she can't be in Hybe for the meantime. But they were told that their choreographers went to see the new member to train her while waiting for the visa's issue to settle. She will come to Korea as soon as possible to start training as a group.

 

"What was her name again?" Sakura asked for a confirmation while tying her shoelaces. "Kazuha something?" Yunjin said, not sure with the name.

 

"Eh? From Amsterdam? But Kazuha is a Japanese name." they were confused but actually excited at the same time. "She's probably studying abroad. Ballet right, unnie?" Yunjin added.

 

Hearing the younger girls talking about the new member, Minha says "I heard we have a video call with her later. We can ask everything since you guys are so excited about her. And yes, her name is Kazuha, and she's Japanese." the staff told them about the video call schedule from Amsterdam in a few hours.

 

She's currently in a hip-hop lesson with another dance teacher. Having the same routine with the S team from afar. Basically, Kazuha is preparing herself as much as the members.

 

The members are likely feeling a mix of emotions about the addition of Kazuha and her unique background in ballet. They're probably excited to meet Kazuha and see what she can bring to the group. Her background in ballet could add a unique element to their performances and choreography, which is something they might be looking forward to.

 

They're likely curious about Kazuha, her background, and her experiences. They might be eager to get to know her better and learn more about her.

 

Anytime a new member is added to a group, there can be some nervousness about how the group dynamics will change. They might be wondering how Kazuha will fit in with the group and how her addition will affect their relationships with each other.

 

They're probably anticipating the video call with Kazuha and are eager to start building their team dynamics with her. Knowing that Kazuha is working hard in Amsterdam might motivate them to work even harder in their own preparations for their debut.

 

Overall, the addition of Kazuha is likely to bring a new energy and dynamic to the group, which the members are probably looking forward to. Despite being in Amsterdam, Kazuha is making the most of her situation and is fully committed to her training and preparations for her debut with the group.

 

Kazuha is taking dance lessons with their choreographers in Amsterdam. Given her background in ballet, she's likely focusing on learning hip-hop and other dance styles that are commonly used in K-pop performances.

 

She's probably also working on incorporating elements of ballet into these dance styles to create a unique performance style.

 

Alongside her dance lessons, Kazuha is likely also receiving vocal training. This could involve working on her singing technique, learning new songs, and possibly even starting to work on original material for the group.

 

If Kazuha isn't already fluent in Korean, she's probably taking language lessons to improve her Korean language skills. This will be important for her to communicate effectively with the other members and to connect with the group's fans.

 

To keep up with the demanding schedule of a K-pop trainee, Kazuha is likely also focusing on her physical fitness. This could involve regular workouts, yoga, or other forms of exercise to keep her body strong and healthy.

 

Kazuha might also be learning about Korean culture to better understand and fit into the K-pop industry. This could involve studying Korean history, traditions, etiquette, and more.

 

Kazuha is likely having regular check-ins with the agency to update them on her progress and receive feedback and guidance. This could involve video calls, emails, or other forms of communication.

 

Despite the challenges of training from afar, Kazuha is showing her dedication and commitment to her debut with the group. The other members are looking forward to meeting her and seeing all the hard work she's been putting in.


 

The video call.

 

Staff : Annyeonghaseyo Kazuha-ssi~

 

Kazuha : *smiles shyly* Annyeonghaseyo...

 

Yunjin : Omg hellooooo

 

Sakura : *wave hands*

 

Minha/ Chaewon/Garam: Annyeonghaseyo~

 

Staff : Can you please introduce yourself to the members?

 

Kazuha : My name is Nakamura Kazuha, I'm 18 years old and nice to see you.

 

(all the members smiled at her cute introduction)

 

Staff : Kazuha-ssi. The members are curious about you. Can you tell them a little bit more about yourself? And your current activity as well.

 

Kazuha : Ah yes of course. Hm...well, I'm currently studying at the Dutch National Ballet Academy here in the Netherlands. And I'm actually in the middle of auditioning for my next competition but I decided to withdraw and take vocal and dance lessons. I'm in a hip-hop lesson today.

 

Staff : What makes you choose kpop over your ballet career, if you can share it with us?

 

Kazuha : *thinking* The more I did ballet, the more I wondered if it was what I wanted to focus my life on. The process of doing ballet itself was fun, of course, and I learned a lot, which was nice. At the same time, I couldn’t stop thinking, ‘Is this really my dream?' But it isn’t easy to start something new, and I didn’t know how to get into the K-pop world since I was studying abroad, so I felt really frustrated.

 

(the members understand that she's not fluent in Korean yet and allows her to speak in her native language, as she explains herself comfortably)

 

Kazuha : I didn’t have many ballet classes at school at the time, and spending all that time at home filled me with thoughts and concerns. I thought that, while being a ballerina was an attractive option, what I do now would open up more opportunities for me to follow my dreams. So I kept deliberating about it, but finally decided to just do it and I sent in my audition video to Hybe..

 

(after the introduction for the documentary video, the staff left the video call to let the members talk to Kazuha privately)

 

 

Yunjin : We're so excited to meet you Kazuha. Are you coming anytime soon or is the issue about your visa taking a long time to settle? *speak in English*

 

Kazuha : Hm I don't know about that, but I heard that it's gonna take a long time. I still need to settle a few things in my school too before I fly to Korea. I'm sorry for what happened regarding my visa, I had no idea about it. But I can't wait to go there as well and practice together. *smiles*

 

Sakura : Don't worry about it. Take your time to settle everything before your flight. We're waiting for you Kazuha-san! I'm happy to have another Japanese member in our team. *speak in fluent Japanese*

 

Kazuha : Thank you so much...

 

Garam : Don't worry about being shy or nervous. We all felt the same when we first started. Just remember, we're all here to support each other. And we're really excited to have unnie join us. So, take your time, and when you're ready, we'll be here waiting for you, unnie. Fighting!

 

Minha : Just do well in your class. Our choreographers may seem cold and strict, but they are kind and funny too sometimes. I appreciated your passion in learning K-pop, but your ballet career is amazing. To have a professional ballerina in this team is something we can't ever imagine. Thank you for your hard work, really. We can't wait to meet you! Fighting!

 

Chaewon : Since it's gonna be your first time in Korea, we're so excited to introduce a lot of things to you. The language, the culture and the food! We will make sure you're not falling behind, don't worry okay? See you soon, Kazuha!


 

After a few moments of getting to know each other, they call it for a day. It's a good start for another friendship with the new member despite the language barrier. They promised to stay in touch while waiting for Kazuha to come to South Korea.