▍ ▎CHAPTER 7: Replaced.

“ Those memories are pulling all of my heart 

to you like gravity. “

-Four Times Around the Sun, Nell

 ○ ○ ○

[ Bomi ]

"Standby!"

The narrow hallway was now filled with idols. I was clumped with my group of course. Eunji and Chorong-unnie on either side of me, clinging on my arms. I sighed. It was very hot and all the noise seemed to make things worse. Trying to escape away from it while I still have time, I excused myself from the rest and decided to saunter towards the free snacks section. I wasn't planning to eat. We're still on a diet after all. All I wanted was a cool refreshment and I'd be good.

Finally arriving on the area, my eyes fell onto the various choices the table has to offer. I gaped, mouthwatering. I wanted to take one of those korean snacks so bad but I thought of the consequences and the thought completely bugged me in the inside. So, I restrained myself and settled for a cold mineral water. I quickly opened the cap, downing its content in a few gulps. I let out a contented sigh then threw the empty bottle on the nearest garbage can.

When I turned around to retrace my steps, idols were continuously rushing in and the people at the hallway were now doubled in size. I could no longer move. I tried ducking and side-sweeping but my efforts failed. So I gave it up and stayed still on my spot. I can just catch up later anyway. I could just run onstage then voila, I'd be with them again.

With nothing to do, I ran my eyes for a quick scan around. I saw some sunbaes chatting and so in a must-have courtesy, dipped my head into a bow and smiled. Even hoobaes and staffs, I tried to be as polite as possible and gave them all respect.

I was in the midst of entertaining myself with bowing when suddenly the great sunbaes from the SM Entertainment burst through the hallway. Everyone had their eyes on them and though wanted to give way, couldn't with the limited space. They were down to earth enough to stay and wait anyway, different from the dramas with actresses or idol stars who were so full of theirselves.

I silently observed them in my spot when out of nowhere, Taeyeon-sunbaenim appeared on the scene. She was happily chatting with Tiffany-sunbaenim. Her presence was radiating beauty. She has always been beautiful but today was slightly different than the other days and I couldn't help but think, is it because she's dating? Once again, for the nth time this hour, my mind went straight to the thought of that rumor. Taeyeon-sunbaenim had her hair color in black and I was just reminded that Baekhyun had his black too. Was it mere coincidence or really planned? Their SNS's, though I don't actually have one because the company prohibited us, there were some photos and posts similar. I've came across one article in the internet wherein they were talking about how it were all some sort of secret code between the two of them and at first I didn't believe. I still don't. Not until I see proof.

I was too absent-mindedly looking at Taeyeon-sunbaenim that I didn't even notice her turn her head in my direction. It was too late to look away as our eyes were already meeting. With a timid smile, she tipped her head to the side as if silently asking me what was it that I needed and I couldn't help but admire how goddess-like her features are.

Slightly shocked that I got caught, I jolted a bit on my spot before quickly giving her a bow and a sheepish smile.

However, Taeyeon-sunbaenim might have something different on her mind as she broke free of Tiffany-sunbaenim's company and walked towards me.

I was panicking but after a few short breaths, managed to stand still without showing how wavering I was inside.

She kept her smile on and when finally reached my side, took hold of my arm and gave it a gentle squeeze. "Bomi-yah, annyeong." She spoke so casually that I got slightly awkward.

"Sunbaenim..." I started with a small voice.

"Aigoo, call me 'unnie'." She flashed me a grin, her eyes disappearing into thin crescents.

I returned her grin and awkwardly did as I was told. "Unnie..."

She gave a satisfied nod then patted my head. "That's it. Be comfortable around me, okay? I heard you're Baekhyun's good friend."

Best friend, actually.

"Ah," I let out an awkward laugh before slowly nodding my head. "I guess...?"

"You came from Gyeonggi-do too, right? I heard from Chen how you and Baekhyun grew up together." She was earnestly smiling and though there was some evil inside me suggesting that I should hate her, I just couldn't bring myself to. She was too pretty and mesmerizing, gentle and kind, fragile and lady-like. She was everything I'm not. Now, I'm sounding jealous.

I brushed off my silly thoughts then nodded my head. I was about to confirm things with my mouth when so suddenly, Baekhyun appeared on her side and held her hand.

He didn't even spare me a glance. All he did was stand there, hold her hand, look at her and smile like an idiot.

Ding! Here's the proof you've been asking for Yoon Bomi! Do you believe now?, I was stunned. My eyes grew large. Whether he did that on purpose or not, I admit. I was hurt.

Taeyeon-sunbaenim was flustered. And though everyone amongst the idols might have already knew about the two of them, pushed his hand away while taking secret glances around. She whispered something at Baekhyun and judging by his reaction, it was something not on his favor.

The space between the three of us was large enough but why was I suddenly feeling suffocated? It was hard to breathe and I knew the longer I stayed there, the harder it'll be for me. I needed to get away.

They were busy whispering to each other and it'll be rude to interrupt so I silently slid off my spot. I focused my gaze at them for the last time before finally turning around and walking to wherever that road may lead me. I was desperate. I just couldn't handle the sight.

Too preoccupied, I didn't really paid much attention to where I was heading until I bumped into a figure and lost my balance.

I was expecting to fall down hard and embarrass myself but luckily, a strong hand was able to reach me in time and yank my arm.

The person I bumped into pulled me up and I landed on his broad chest. Judging from the stiffness and built, I was pretty much sure it was a guy.

Finally regaining stability, I stepped away from his grasp and bowed down. I was too embarassed so I fixed my gaze on the floor. I muttered a shy 'sorry' and 'thank you' then continued on with my chosen path.

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