Their food came and Kayla looked at her steaming bowl of vegetable lo mein and smiled, she loved it, one of her favorite dishes. Reaching out, she grabbed the package of chopsticks, tore it open and slid them out, breaking them apart. She glanced up and heard Kyu Jong say that thing he’d said before and then picked up his chopsticks and expertly start eating. The way he used the sticks blew her mind, she’d never seen anyone so adept at it before, he made it look so easy. She couldn’t do that, her chopstick skills were limited at best, most of her food ended up on her lap and she had to end up using silverware. He worked deftly; he manipulated the sticks as if they were an extension of his fingers. Kayla looked down at hers, feeling slightly self-conscious and slowly set them down, she couldn’t use them in front of him, he’d laugh at her.

“Is it ok?” Kyu Jong asked suddenly.

She looked back up at him, he was watching her in concern, “Oh yeah, I’m sure it’s fine.”

“You haven’t tried it yet?” He frowned.

“Uh…no. I will though,” she winced.

Great, she had no choice now; she looked down at the sticks, fighting the urge to snap the damn things in half. Kayla glanced over at the fork, trying to see if she could come up with a reason to use it that would make sense. She supposed she could just do it and not explain herself, but it’d be painfully obvious that she wasn’t good at it and she didn’t really want him to know that. She looked up at Kyu Jong to see him watching her, an eyebrow raised in confusion; she cleared and slowly picked up the chopsticks, her anxiety growing. Concentrating hard, she reached out to pick up some of the noodles, she managed to get some, but in her extreme focus, she fumbled the sticks, the noodles spilling onto the table followed by the chopsticks, which clattered loudly after.

She could feel her face burning, “Oops,” she muttered, quickly wiping at the table with her napkin, setting the chopsticks across the bowl.

Kayla knew she shouldn’t have even tried in front of him, in front of anyone else, she would’ve laughed it off, but she couldn’t do that with him, he was for all intents and purposes, a professional. She kept her head down as she continued to wipe at the table. Just then, she felt a hand covering hers.

“Here, let me help.”

She looked up again to see Kyu Jong now sitting next to her; he continued to wipe up the mess, setting the dirty napkin aside.

He looked over at her, “Hard time with your chopsticks?”

She nodded, watching him.

“Here, I’ll help you, it’s hard if you’re not used to it. Like this, first this goes in-between your thumb and index finger, right. Then the other you hold like you’re holding a pen…” he said softly, his fingers carefully positioning the sticks between hers.

His hand was warm, gentle, his fingers long and thin.

“Now, you’re going to slide up on them a bit, give yourself some room to work, yes good. If you’re too far down it limits your movement. Ok now, move your index finger up and down, right. So you’re going to keep the bottom stick still and open the top…right, slide the bottom under, close the top…ok now lift, good,” Kyu Jong said softly.

She actually had it comfortably for the most part.

“Alright, try to get it in your mouth,” he said.

Kayla leaned in, stuffing the noodles into , slurping a bit, she smiled as she chewed, she’d actually done it, and he’d made it so easy. It was then she realized his hand was still covering hers in support. She looked up at him and he gave her a warm smile.

“You did well; try it on your own.”

She at her lips, swallowing the bite in . Carefully she moved the sticks, she managed to get more noodles, it wasn’t as seamless as before when he helped her, but she managed.

“Very good, keep practicing,” Kyu Jong smiled.

Kayla looked back over at him who smiled again and she smiled as well, “Thank you for your help in making me not feel stupid.”

“Everyone has to learn, nothing to be embarrassed about Kayla. I’ve had my share of accidents, even now; no one is born knowing how to use them.”

“You’re so good at it though,” she sighed.

“Well I used them all the time, they are our primary utensils at home, not so much for you, it is to be expected.”

“Thanks for taking the time to show me,” she said softly.

He looked at her, a gentle smile on his lips, “You’re welcome.”

Two Hours Later…

“You picked a lot of great places to go to, I recommend coming back when the weather is better just like before. Since it’s so cold, it kind of limits what you can do,” Kayla explained.

“True, I hope I’ll have time later to do so, I start my study on Monday, it’s bound to be busy after,” Kyu Jong said sadly.

“I’m sure you’ll get some time off, you need to be able to relax and recharge. I know Shane usually has a day or two off during the week, I’m not sure about what exactly you’re going to be doing, but I’m sure you’ll get some time to yourself,” she reasoned.

“I hope so, though I don’t mind it too much, I’m used to a busy schedule,” Kyu Jong said.

“You mean with your acting?”

He nodded, “Yes, when I did. My primary job that I traveled for required constant work, early mornings and very late nights, I loved it though.”

“So if you weren’t a full time actor, what else did you do?” She questioned, curious as to what kept him so busy.

Kyu Jong sighed softly, “I’m in the music industry, it is why I wanted to do the exchange. I’m used to a very specific style when it comes to the business, which is why I wanted to come here to see how it’s done somewhere else, learn as much about the business as possible.”

“Hmm, is there a specific field you’re into? Do you want to do directing and producing like Shane?”

“Maybe eventually, but as of right now, not so much. I do want to see the creative process of developing an album from the beginning. So in a way some producing, but I really want to be involved in the whole process.”

Kayla nodded, “Have you thought about creating an album for yourself?” She asked, he seemed so determined.

She felt him still suddenly and then look over at her.

“You said you did some singing, if you feel you need to work on it more, that can be your goal, to one day release an album at home and hey, maybe even here, you know I’d buy a copy,” she smiled as she pulled into the parking lot of their townhouses.

She looked over at Kyu Jong to see him watching her with a pained expression, she frowned.

“K? Are you ok?”

He smiled weakly and nodded.

“Oh, is that a sore subject? I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have mentioned it,” she said worriedly.

He shook his head, “No no, it’s fine.”

“No, you looked so upset, I’m really sorry, I should’ve kept my mouth shut,” she sighed.

Suddenly his hand came out to cover hers on the steering wheel and she looked over at him.

“It is fine, I am not upset with you, please do not worry,” he smiled.

She stared at him and he carefully removed his hand.

“Come, let’s go,” he said, turning to unlock the door and slide out the car.

She looked ahead for a moment before making her way out, starting towards her door.

“Thank you for taking me out today, I enjoyed myself, I will have a lot of energy for tomorrow,” Kyu Jong smiled.

She nodded a bit, “O-oh yeah, sure, anytime. Thanks for letting me tag along.”

He grinned, “I hope we’ll get to again sometime, annyong!” He said before bowing and heading up to his place.

Kayla watched him go, feeling slightly dazed for some reason. Taking a deep breath, she made her way into find Shane on the couch asleep, the remote hanging precariously from his fingers. She smiled a bit, she’d been too hard on him earlier, it’d taken Kyu Jong to make her realize. While she may not agree with Shane, she knew he was only looking out for her and she did appreciate it.

Kicking her boots off, she made her way over, pulling the remote from his hand and turning the TV off. She grabbed the throw blanket from the back of the couch and spread it out over him before sitting next to him, draping the blanket over herself as well. Moving closer, she rested her head on his chest, sighing heavily.

“I’m sorry Shane,” she whispered, “I know you meant well, you always do. It’s just…you always say things I don’t want to hear, but I do, I hear it, just so you know. I appreciate you looking out for me and protecting me all this time, I couldn’t ask for a better brother…sorry,” she whispered again, her voice breaking.

Just then, she felt an arm go around her, pulling her closer.

“I shouldn’t have said anything…”

“No, I shouldn’t have gotten so mad, I didn’t get it before, but I understand it a little better now thanks to Kyu Jong.”

Shane gave her a gentle squeeze, “I just want you to be happy Kayla, that’s all.”

She looked up at him and smiled, “Thank you.”

~~~

Kyu Jong headed into his room and slumped down on the bed, his heart was pounding. He hadn’t expected her to ask him about doing an album, what was worse, he hadn’t told her everything. He should’ve said something then, it was the perfect opportunity, but he couldn’t bring himself to do it, he’d wanted to remain just Kyu Jong for a little longer. She’d even said she’d get a copy of his album, she had no idea, but he wondered if she did, would she really?

He felt awful, when she’d caught him looking at her, he’d been upset, but not for the reasons she’d been thinking. He didn’t know how long he’d been able to keep the charade up, a year was too long, he had to work hard so he could tell her soon. Standing again, he started getting things organized for tomorrow. Now that it was so close, he found he was growing more nervous. So many questions were going through his head, what if no one liked him? What if he didn’t fit in? He didn’t know how he was going to do this, he was scared. He was supposed to meet with the other guy who was going to help him along with Shane hyung first thing tomorrow morning; he hoped he’d help put him at ease.

Kyu Jong felt he was way out of his league here, he didn’t know if he could really do this and do it well. He sighed heavily, the fear in him rising, reaching out; he grabbed his phone, dialing. After four rings, someone picked up.

“Y-yeobeosayo?”

“Hyung annyeong.”

“Oh Kyu Jong, annyeong.”

“Did I wake you? Mianhae,” Kyu Jong winced, “I just needed to talk, I can call you later.”

“Ani, it is ok, what’s wrong? Did something happen?”

“No hyung, just feeling a little scared about tomorrow. I just don’t know if I can do this,” Kyu Jong sighed.

“We talked about this before you left, you will be fine, it will be scary at first, but you will get used to it.”

He let out a breath, “But what if I don’t get used to it? What if I fail Young Saeng ssi?” Kyu Jong said softly.

“So long as you try, you cannot fail. You can do it, you know we’re all rooting for you, just go tomorrow and do your best,” Young Saeng finished.

“Thank you hyung, I feel much better. I will let you go so you can sleep, I will be more mindful next time I call,” Kyu Jong said.

“It is ok, talk to you soon,” Young Saeng yawned.

“Annyeong,” Kyu Jong said and then hung up.

He smiled; it was just what he needed to hear.

That Evening…

“Great job once again everyone! We did even better tonight than we did last night. One more night to go, this was smoother, I expect everything to go off without a hitch tomorrow night. See you then and once again, great job!” The director smiled and everyone filed out of the room.

Kayla immediately saw Shane come up to hug and congratulate her.

“You did well, I guess you actually HAVE been rehearsing when you say you are,” he grinned.

“What do you think I’ve been doing?” Kayla frowned.

“I dunno, hanging out with your friends, going for drinks,” Shane smiled.

Kayla rolled her eyes, laughing.

“Seriously though, you did well, your best one yet I have to say.”

“Thanks, I think it went well, I’m looking forward to the last performance tomorrow.”

“I’ll try to make that one, but I can’t promise,” Shane said.

“It’s ok, I think Chanile may come and Liz and Lillian too, so don’t worry about it.”

“Ok, do you want to get something to eat?”

“Nah, I’m just going to head home, I’m tired. Thanks for coming though Shane, it means a lot,” Kayla smiled.

“Yeah yeah, I bet,” Shane winked, turning to head out.

Kayla said goodbye to a few more cast mates before starting out.

“Bye Kayla!”

She looked back to see Lejna waving, Kayla waved for her to come over, smiling in confusion as she made her way over. She seemed to be looking for something or someone.

“Hey, I’m heading out…what are you looking for?” Kayla questioned.

“Oh uhh…you know, your…uhh friend.”

“My fri…oh you mean Kyu Jong? He’s not here,” Kayla grinned.

Lejna frowned, “Oh really?”

“You really took a liking to him huh?”

“Well it’s just…he was so sweet and he asked for my autograph and…” She stopped, sighing. “I was just hoping to see him again, that’s all.”

“Aww, I’ll make sure I tell him.”

“No don’t do that, he’ll think I’m weird!” Lejna cried.

“He will not, I think he’d be happy. Think about it, he’s new to America, he wants to make friends, I’m sure he’d be happy to know there’s someone else who likes him and is thinking of him besides me and Shane.”

Lejna blinked, “That could be true.”

“Maybe he wants to make a lot of friends so he’s not so lonely.”

“Ooo yeah, ok you can tell him, but don’t make me seem stalkerish, I don’t want to scare him,” Lejna winced.

Kayla chuckled, “You go it. I’m heading out, see you tomorrow.”

Lejna waved and Kayla made her way out the door. On her way home, she stopped and got some dinner before making her way into the parking lot. Once inside, she changed clothes, washed her face to remove the heavy make up and headed into the living room to eat, flipping the TV on.

She’d just started to get ready to eat, when her phone rang. Not bothering to look, she answered, “Hello?”

“Hey honey!”

 She smiled a bit, “Terrance hi! Great to hear from you.”

“Yeah, just checking in to see how tonight went, did you do well?”

“Yeah, good, just like last night.”

“Sorry I couldn’t make it tonight either, it’s been really crazy at the office, and you know how that goes.”

“So what about tomorrow? It’s the final performance.”

“I know, but I’m swamped. I have a dinner with some important clients and their family, so we have to entertain them. I just won’t be able to make it, sorry babe,” Terrance sighed.

Kayla rolled her eyes, “No problem, I understand.”

“That’s my girl, I knew you would. Sorry I couldn’t come by tonight, I was going to, but Mom called about an hour ago to let me know there were some things that needed to be taken care of so I had to go. Maybe tomorrow ok?”

“Yeah, ok,” she said quietly.

“Great! I gotta go, I’ll talk to you soon, I love you, bye!”

He hung up before she could even respond. She slumped back on the couch, staring blankly at the screen. Work was always more important, Kayla looked around the empty room, feeling painfully alone. She almost wished he hadn’t called, it reminded her of everything. She looked at the massive pile of food in front of her and was hit with a thought, she knew of someone else who was probably feeling just as lonely.

Standing, she put her boots and coat on before heading out.

~~~

Kyu Jong flipped through the channels, trying to find something to watch, but nothing caught his eye. They didn’t have dramas here and he was having sort of a hard time catching American humor, it was very different from what he was used to. He’d have to order some dramas and such online for him to watch. He didn’t know what to do though, he was bored and desperately wanted someone to talk to, but there was no one. He supposed he could have a late dinner and then go to bed early.

He stood and started for the kitchen, when there was a knock at the door. Frowning, he made his way over, unlocking the door and pulling it open to see Kayla there.

“Oh Kayla, hello,” he smiled, this was a pleasant surprise.

She smiled brightly, “Hi! I hope I’m not bothering you.”

“Ani, not at all, come in,” he smiled, stepping aside, she had perfect timing.

She made her way in, standing in front of the door, “I won’t stay long, I just wanted to ask you something.”

He blinked, “Oh?”

“Yeah, are you doing anything now?”

He shook his head, “No, I was going to have a late dinner and then go to bed.”

“Perfect, I wanted to see if you wanted to come down and hang out for a while, I bought dinner on my way home from my play and there’s too much. I was hoping you’d join me if you’re up for some company,” Kayla offered, giving him a hopeful smile.

Kyu Jong grinned broadly; she really did have perfect timing. “Yes, that would be great.”

“Ok then, let’s go!”

“Should I bring something to share?”

Kayla smiled, “Just yourself.”

He got his coat and pulled his boots on before following her out, locking his door and heading down to her townhouse. Once there, they made their way in, Kyu Jong slipped his boots off then his coat and Kayla took it, hanging it up in the closet.

“Have a seat on the couch; I’ll get you a plate ready.”

Kyu Jong walked over sitting on the couch, he watched as Kayla took a long Styrofoam tray back to the kitchen with her and a few minutes later she came out with a plate in her hand as well as some silverware.

“Here you go,” she announced as she set it down in front of him and sat down next to him, her plate was already on the table. “Do you eat beef?” She asked. “I mean, I know you ate the Mexican food and there was beef in it, but some people only eat certain things if it’s mixed with something else.”

“I like beef,” he smiled, quite a bit truth be told.

“Great, these are beef ribs and they’re smothered in a hickory smoked barbeque sauce. In this tray here, I got some chicken wings in a sweet type barbeque sauce and the two small containers are macaroni and potato salads. Please help yourself,” she said, giving him a small and gesturing to the food and putting some spoons in each of the sides then set a fork down next to his plate.

He bowed, feeling a bit overwhelmed, he’d had ribs before, but Korean style, he didn’t know if he was going to like anything else. The types of sauces didn’t smell like anything he’d ever had before and the sides were weird looking, not at all what he was used to.

“If there’s anything that doesn’t look good to you, you don’t have to try it ok?” Kayla explained.

“Ani, I will try it,” he said.

Reaching out, he scooped a little of each of the white things she called salads onto his plate next to the huge half rack of ribs. He said the saying and then tore one off and took a cautious bite. His mouth was flooded with a smoky, woodsy taste, slightly sweet and he groaned, it was delicious.

“Mmm…”

Kayla smiled and he took another bite, at his lips, “It is delicious, I’ve never had this type of sauce before, it’s different than our sauces. This is smoky and kind of sweet, mmm.”

She chuckled, “It’s good right? I love a smoky sauce, more so than sweet actually, unless it’s on chicken wings. Try one of those; it’s a very different taste.”

Kyu Jong nodded, reaching out to take a wing. He took a bite and this time was attacked with a sweet and slightly spicy sauce, “Wow!” he muttered, at his lips before taking another bite.

It was good, very good, he’d been pleasantly surprised. He’d had friends who’d come to America to visit and had said most of the food they’d had had been bad, they obviously hadn’t had this. Usually when they had fried chicken at home, it was plain, this was very different, but in a good way. He cleaned the bone and set it down on his plate, at his fingers.

“I take it liked that too,” Kayla grinned.

He nodded, still at his fingers.

“Here use this,” she passed him a damp washcloth. “It’s easier than using a mountain of napkins.”

He bowed his head, “Thank you,” he wiped at his fingers and set the cloth down and picked up his fork and tried the macaroni salad, “hmm…” he wasn’t sure what he thought. It was in some kind of sauce like stuff, there were spices and carrot.

“No huh?” Kayla said, giving him a look of understanding.

He shook his head, “No, I don’t care much for it.”

Kyu Jong tried the other salad, this was different, thicker, heavier, with chunks of potato and something crunchy, tasted like celery, this one he liked. He scooped up the last bit, putting it in his mouth before wiping at it with the cloth. “I like that one, very good.”

“So you’re a potato salad kinda guy, ok.”

“This is all good, thank you for sharing.”

Kayla waved him off, “It’s nothing, and I got way too much. I try to have leftovers for the next day, but I was feeling kind of lonely and I knew you might be feeling the same way. I thought why not help each other out and keep each other company.”

Kyu Jong looked at her, there was something else, he was sure of it, he just didn’t know what.

“I’m glad you thought of me, I was feeling very lonely actually.”

She nodded, “I thought so. I’m glad I thought of you too. So go on, eat, there’s plenty.”

Between the two of them, they ate almost everything, Kyu Jong felt stuffed, he helped her to clean up even though she protested the whole time. After they settled back down on the couch.

“Whew, I’m full,” she sighed, resting back.

He nodded, “Yes, me too.”

“Oh, I almost forgot,” Kayla said suddenly, sitting up, she looked over at him and smiled, “Lejna was looking for you after the performance tonight.”

Kyu Jong blinked, “Me? Why?”

“She was quite…taken by you. You really left an impression by asking for our autographs. She was sad to see you weren’t there.”

He blinked then smiled, “She seems very sweet, I hope to see her again sometime soon. Please tell her I said hello when you see her again.”

“That’s tomorrow, the final performance, I will tell her for you,” Kayla smiled, resting back on the couch again, staring at the TV.

Kyu Jong could tell she wasn’t really watching, she was distracted. He didn’t want to intrude, but he wanted to find out what was wrong, he just wished she’d open up a bit.

“I should head back up,” he said, figuring it was better he take himself out of the situation before he said something he shouldn’t.

Kayla looked over at him and frowned, “I’m sorry K, you don’t have to go yet. I’m not being a good hostess am I?” She sighed, turning the TV off.

“Ani you are, it’s fine. You just seem distracted, like you’re down,” Kyu Jong said carefully.

“You’re very observant, I don’t see that much in the guys I’m around,” she smiled then sighed again. “ I guess I am in a way, there’s just…I’m…I’m just…”

“Just what?” Kyu Jong asked softly.

She stared ahead, “Just tired I guess, it’s been a long day.”

He frowned but nodded, “Mmm, I understand.”

Kayla turned her head to look at him again, looking into his eyes as if she were searching for something.

Kyu Jong gave her a gentle smile, “It can be tough I know, you keep going without stopping, sometimes it feels as if you’re falling and there’s no one to catch you, I know,” he said quietly.

Kayla continued to stare at him and Kyu Jong stood.

“I will leave first, thank you again for dinner Kayla, I hope to see you again soon,” he bowed before heading over to the closet and getting his coat and pulling his boots on and making his way out.

~~~

Kayla watched as he left, she couldn’t bring herself to say anything, to even move. She hadn’t expected him to say that, hadn’t expected him to get inside her head that way, it’d startled her.

Who was this guy?

Monday Afternoon

“Have a seat, the nurse will be with you in a moment,” Kayla smiled before shutting the sliding door and putting the file on top of the others that had yet to be taken.

“So, how’s things?” Lillian asked.

Kayla shrugged, “Good I guess, I have my final performance tonight then we break for about a week or so before classes start up again.”

“Ahh well I’m coming tonight, I think Liz said she was too…”

“I said what?” Liz said as she walked into the room, a stack of files in her arms.

“That you’re going to Kayla’s play tonight,” Lillian said, opening the small door to take the paperwork from the next patient.

Liz grinned, “That’s right, I am and I can’t wait.”

Kayla smiled, “Thanks ladies, that means a lot, I hope we don’t disappoint.”

“No way, you never do, don’t say that, it’s gonna be great. You said the last two shows went well, why would this be any different?” Lillian said, stapling some papers together before sliding them into a file.

“I dunno, when you have a few people coming and you want to do well, something always goes wrong, it’s the nature of the beast,” Kayla sighed.

“It’s going to be fine, stop worrying. Find me in the audience, I’ll make you laugh,” Liz winked.

“No way, it’d be a disaster for sure, I know how you are Liz, I’d be laughing so hard I wouldn’t be able to say my lines,” Kayla rolled her eyes.

“Just know I’m there if you’re in a pinch.”

Kayla shook her head in amazement, “Thanks.”

“So, is Terrance coming?” Lillian asked, looking over at her.

“No, he’s not. He called last night to apologize for not coming then said he couldn’t come tonight when I asked. Says he has an important dinner for the business and him and his parents have to entertain some big clients,” she explained deadpanned.

Liz sighed but said nothing and Lillian shook her head, Kayla was tired of the looks of pity and everything else, what could she do though? It wasn’t as if she could force him to come and see her. She stood, making her way out of the room and heading into the break room, sitting down at the table and pulling her phone out. She unlocked it and went into her messages, found the thread she wanted and pulled it up and typed “Hey!” She waited, a few seconds later there was a response:

“Not now honey, I’m busy, later.”

Kayla stared hard at the message for a moment before slipping the phone back into her holster and standing and making her way back out the room.

~~~

Kyu Jong slowly made his way into the building, looking around nervously. He felt out of place and scared. He had hoped he could com in with Shane hyung, but he’d had to go in earlier to get set up, so he’d been on his own. The cab ride hadn’t been bad, he’d made it with no problems and now here he was.

Slowly he made his way over to the receptionist desk.

“Hello, I’m Kim…uhh Kyu Jong Kim, I’m here for a meeting,” he said quietly.

“Hello Mr. Kim, welcome to Sony Studios. Let’s see, ahh here you are, Mr. Greyson will be with you shortly if you could please take a seat,” she smiled.

Kyu Jong nodded, bowing before turning and heading over to one of the several plush chairs lined up against the wall. He sat and slumped back, he wished he wasn’t so nervous, he wished he had someone there with him. He knew Shane was just on the other side, but he felt so far away and that made him feel even more alone.

Letting out a breath, he let his thoughts drift to Kayla and what’d happened last night. It’d been great to spend more time with her, inviting him for dinner had been expected, but very much appreciated. He’d been slightly uneasy about trying the different foods, but it’d been fun and he’d gotten to have different flavors. It’d been generous of her to share with him like that and he wished he could’ve spent more time with her; he didn’t really want to leave when he did, but he had felt it was the right thing to do at the time. He was lonely though and he knew she was more than she let on.

Something had happened that had led to her inviting him down; again, he couldn’t help but think it had something to do with her boyfriend. The comment he’d made before leaving seemed to really take her off guard, which told him he’d been right. She must be in a weird place right now, he really hoped she had someone to talk to; he could tell she really needed to.

Just the door opened and a man looking to be in his mid to late fifties came through, his gaze found Kyu Jong’s and he smiled, making his way over.

“Mr. Kim, how great it is to finally meet you. Welcome to America and Sony Studios, I’m Kenji Grayson from the Human Resources department,” he announced.

Kyu Jong bowed and then shook his proffered hand, bracing his arm with the other, “Hello, thankful for giving me this opportunity. I will work hard,” he said, bowing again.

“I’m sure you will, we’re excited to have you here. If you’ll follow me, I’ll show you around, introduce you to your assigned team. I understand you’ve already met Shane Jacobs?”

“Yes I have, he’s been helping me to get settled.”

“Great, it’s always good to have someone to count on when you’re in a foreign land. Come, let’s get started,” the older man said, leading him to the door.

That Night…

Kayla watched from backstage as people started filing in. There was little less than an hour before the show started, she kept looking, hoping by some miracle he’d show up and surprise her, but she knew better, still she couldn’t help herself. She chuckled when she saw Lillian and Liz make their way down the aisle, finding a seat followed by Chanile who sat right next to them.

Chanile didn’t know them that well, they’d met during one of her performances and usually all sat together if possible. They’d all agreed to get together for drinks some time for the three to get better acquainted, they just had to get a time when all their schedules fit. Kayla was glad for their support, she did the same for them, she couldn’t ask for better friends.

“Kayla? Are you coming? We’re starting soon,” Lejna said as she came up beside her.

She nodded, “Yeah, I’m coming. I was just watching the people come in and…well…”

“He’s not here huh?” Lejna said softly.

Kayla bit her lip and shook her head.

“Sorry,” Lejna whispered.

“Me too,” she sighed. “Anyway, Kyu Jong told me to tell you he said hi back and that he hopes to see you again soon.”

Lejna’s eyes widened, her cheeks turning a nice shade of pink, “Oh? Really? Wow,” she smiled shyly.

“Well, let’s go,” she said and they turned and headed backstage.

Their final performance went off without a hitch, the audience enjoyed it and everyone was on a high. It was announced there would be an after party at one of the local bar and grills and all cast, crew and family and friends were invited to come. Kayla decided she should at least make an appearance; she gathered her bag and headed out to find her friends.

“Kayla! Over here!”

She looked over to see Liz waving frantically and she laughed, heading over.

“Hey ladies, thanks so much for coming tonight, I really appreciate it,” Kayla smiled.

“You did great, I really enjoyed it,” Lillian smiled, reaching out to hug her, followed by Liz and then Chanile.

“Thanks! There’s an after party, you’re all invited, gonna come? I’m gonna head over for a bit,” Kayla announced.

“I want to, but I have to open the office tomorrow,” Liz sighed, “Figures, the night I can go out and let loose, I have to open.”

Kayla gave her a sad smile and looked at Lillian.

“I have to go out and run some errands with my mom in the morning, we’ve had it planned for weeks,” Lillian gave her an apologetic smile.

“No problem, you two go on ahead, I’ll see you in the afternoon tomorrow Liz.”

The ladies all said bye and headed off.

“So what about you Chanile, you in?” Kayla smirked, already knowing what her answer would be.

“Absolutely! I’m off work tomorrow, so I’m game. I’m ready to go get my eat on, I’m starving,” she sighed.

Kayla chuckled, “Ok then, let’s go.”

She found Lejna once again surrounded by a crush of her family and gave her a slight wave and her and Chanile headed out.

____________________________________________________________

a/n: Hello all!! This was a fairly interesting chapter, we get to see Kyu Jong help Kayla in a few dofferent ways, though she still has reluctance to tell him anything too revealling, makes me wonder how long she can hold out. It seems to be the general concensus that people don't like Terrance. I may be doing him a disservice as he means well, though he doesn't show it. He's just...well sort of weak when it comes to his parents, his mom in particular. He's not trying to be a bad boyfriend, he simply doesn't get it and figures Kayla woll continue to wait for and support him and he has no real reason competition and he's right, he doesn't...

Nice to see Kayla and Shane make up, you can tell they're really close and when there's any sort of tension or fight amongst them, it effects them both deeply. Leave it to Kyu Jong to help her to realize how lucky she is.

I love reading your comments and feeback, please leave some if you can!

Until next time!

MO ~ ✌