…6.17.2012

“Dude, your girlfriend is hot!” Jay remarked a little too loudly.

His close friend held his phone in his hand, a photo of Ashley and him together on the screen. 

They we're both sitting in Jay's convertible, Daniel had just been picked up from the airport.

Originally, Daniel had planned on staying in New York to apply for an internship. But he had failed the interview and decided to head home for summer break.

“How’s ASU?” Daniel inquired, staring out at the familiar LA sun.

Jay had gone to college at Arizona State University. A campus where he boasted there was and I quote: "More partying going on there than anywhere in the world."

“Dude, I can’t even begin to tell you how much fun I had this semester.” He answered a cocky grin on his face.

Daniel wasn’t surprised, an 'extroverted guy' like Jay was probably in his environment there. “I can’t even count how many girls I—”

"I get the picture." Daniel interuppted chuckling. 

Jay handed him his phone back.

“Dude are you playing ball there?” Jay asked, as his car pulled out of the Los Angeles Airport. The engine accelerating as they sped onto the freeway.

“I was a manager, but coach said he'll let me play next semester.” Daniel sighed thinking about it.  

Did he even want that though? His studies were suffering because of the time commitment it took to be part of the team. He might even lose his academic scholarship if he continued. 

Besides, now that he wasn't thinking about her anymore. He felt his determination for basketball slowly fading.

“What the man? You’re too good to play at a  school like that. You would’ve gotten a great scholarship to Duke, if you weren’t Asian.” Jay argued.

Daniel nodded, he couldn’t lie his appearance was probably the main reason he wasn’t given athletic scholarships.Their Highschool team had defeated some of the best schools in all of California.

“So what’s the plan for the summer?” Daniel inquired changing the subject. 

“Dude we’re gonna have so much fun!” Jay answered with mischief filled eyes. Daniel slowly wondered if he was returning to his old ways. His old life. 

Jay dropped him off at his house and told him to call him tomorrow to hangout. Daniel grabbed his suitcases and lugged them to the front door. Immediately, the door burst open and Jenny rushed to greet him.

“Oppa!” She cried out as she ran over and hugged him. “I missed you.” 

“Me too Jenny.” He replied holding her between his arms.

“Let’s watch Dream High 2 together again!” She squealed happily. "Or we can—"

Daniel stopped her from continuing. Grabbing her shoulders and staring into her eyes coldly.

“Sorry, I forgot to tell you... I’m done with that.”

…7.23.2012

“Annyeong 2pm Sunbae-nims.” All the T-ara members bowed. They had just finished performing and we're walking off the stage when they ran into 2pm.

“Hello T-ara, nice to see you again.” Their leader Jun K greeted. “I wish I could keep the introductions short, but Chansung and Junho had to meet her.”

Both of the handsome men suddenly met Jiyeon’s eyes.

“Wow, you look so pretty today.” Chansung began flattering her.

“Actually, you look pretty everyday, but only I notice. We all watched Dream High 2 for you.” Junho gazed into her eyes and she couldn't help but blush. 

“We were all so jealous of Jinwoon. You were seriously, seriously so cute in that.” Chansung added as her cheekbones shot up at the compliment.

“Thank you Sunbae-nims.” She bowed graciously towards the respected idols. 

Eunjung put her arm around her like an older brother. 

“Well, if you’re so interested, I’m sorry, but our Maknae has high standards for men. She only likes men who can eat as much as her.” Eunjung teased.

“It’s almost impossible. We know.” Boram added on to the teasing.

Jiyeon slapped her unnie's shoulder grinning awkwardly as the rest laughed at her expense.

“Well, glad to meet you guys here, but please cheer for us as we perform!” Wooyoung requested cooly.

Jiyeon spotted Eunjung’s eyes follow the main dancer as the group walked onto the stage.

“Wow, they are all so manly.” Hyomin sighed wistfully, heading back to their dressing room.

“Eunjung was practically drooling over Wooyoung.” Qri .

“I saw it too. It was definitely Wooyoung Sunbae-nim.” Jiyeon added on playfully, glad to get revenge for her earlier teasing.

“Was not!” Eunjung retorted flustered by the sudden shift in targets. 

But smiled wistfully seconds later clearly thinking of him again. “But the way he dances is so y.”

“I think Nickhun is so cool, he makes me wish I was born Thai.” Soyeon gushed and they all giggled. 

They were escorted back to their waiting room by their managers. They swtiched from their stage outfits knowing they had to return to their agency for concert preparations.

“Jiyeon unnie, who would you choose between the two?” Ahreum, the new maknae inquired.

“Um, I don’t know. I guess Chansung sunbae is tall and manly. Maybe that Sunbae.” Jiyeon admitted.

“I thought your type was Lee Chunhee sunbae-nim?” Boram interrogated. "Does that mean that unrequited love is over?"

“Well, he’s manly. That’s why I like him too.” Jiyeon defended herself. "Unrequited my foot."

“Our cute little visual, picking between the cream of the crop now. Our Pretty Jiyeon!” Hyomin coddled her, squishing her cheeks together with her hands.

“Jiyeon this. Jiyeon that.”

Jiyeon stared at the corner of the room where Hwayoung was sitting, clearly pissed about something. Her sarcastic yet stuck up tone was apparent in her voice. “Jiyeon you’re pretty. Jiyeon you’re my favorite. Jiyeon I watched your drama. Aren’t you all embarrassed?”

“What are you talking about?” Qri questioned raising one eyebrow.

“We all work hard, but because Jiyeon just has to smile. She gets all the credit.”

Jiyeon found herself becoming annoyed by the unfounded words. Did she really think that? That it was just her appearance that had made her popular? 

“Have you ever had a hard day in your life with your pretty face?” Hwayoung was face to face with her now.

Jiyeon clenched her fist. Using every ounce of energy to hold back the rage that was burning inside of her. What would change if she got angry? Life was unfair. 

She just didn't know. Hwayoung just didn't know the truth. How much Jiyeon had sacrificed for her for all of them.

“I never said I deserve all the credit. All of our members are so hardworking, that’s why it's an honor for me to receive praise on behalf of all of us.” She expressed her feelings as calmly as she could.

“So why are you being jealous right now?” Jiyeon decided to turn the tables with an accusation.

She expected guilt. Perhaps sorrow. An apology.

“Me jealous? Jealous doesn’t begin to describe it. I ing hate you. You attention .” Instead Hwayoung cursed directly in her face.

Jiyeon stepped backwards completely shocked by her harsh words, "I ing hate you"

“Stop it now Hwayoung! This isn’t the place for this.” Qri commanded trying to step in between them.

But Hwayoung wasn’t done, she pushed Qri aside and stood face to face with her.

“See? Everyone comes to your side to protect you! Everyone loves you! Guess what? You don’t deserve any of that. Even the little Dani loved you so much... Guess what?"

Jiyeon gazed in horror at the mention of Dani. It couldn't be... no tell me you didn't.

Hwayoung leaned over and whispered into her ear. "I made sure she couldn’t debut. Just to see your pitiful face.”

Jiyeon couldn’t believe her. She had wondered who could’ve voted against Dani’s debut, she had considered Hwayoung.

But inside... she kept defending her. She kept telling herself that Hwayoung wouldn’t do that no matter how much she annoyed her. No one was that cruel.

Jiyeon snapped. The smug smile on Hwayoung’s arrogant face, the way she held her head high even after saying all of it. It pissed her off. 

All of the anger and hurt that she had suppressed inside came out at once. 

“Why did you do that? Why the hell would you hurt her like that? Because of me?” Jiyeon reached out and clenched Hwayoung by her shoulders shaking her furiously. “Why didn't you just take your anger out on me? Why her?” 

Tears of betrayal and hatred were streaming down her face. Her eyes locked with her enemy and was startled, they were cold and heartless.

“You brought that upon yourself.” Hwayoung provoked her.

“Let go of her Jiyeon!” Soyeon intervened. Hyomin and Ahreum struggled to hold Jiyeon back grabbing her arms. Jiyeon fought back, struggling to get free to get her revenge. 

She was a monster. That was a monster. 

“Apologize! Apologize! Before I kill you myself! She did nothing wrong and you... You ruined her life!” Rage seared through Jiyeon as she screamed at her. "Why? Why? Why!"

She couldn’t believe that someone could do such a thing out of pure jealousy.

“Jiyeon calm down.” Hyomin begged her. 

“Unnie please. Please. Please calm down.” Ahreum pleaded with her.

It took the tears in her member's eyes for her to finally realized how out of control she had become.

“You did that to yourself! With your stupid scandal with Myungsoo oppa! With your arrogant attitude. You have everything! You deserve to see what it’s like to suffer.” Hwayoung screamed back, finally snapping and revealing her jealousy for all to see. 

“I practiced hard until I wanted to die. I sat in the stands waiting for my time to debut while my Unnies worked their asses off to get us to where we are. You think I don’t know pain? I left my family at 14. I lost all my friends, and I can’t even date the guy I like because I put everything into this group!" Jiyeon retorted, once again she felt so misunderstood.

"You don’t know what it’s like to work hard because you joined us when we already had fans! So don’t act like you know anything about me!” Her vision was cloudy, the tears pouring from her face. Everything was blurry. “I wish you never joined T-ara!”

Jiyeon realized she had gone too far with her last comment.

She heard a proud grunt from Hwayoung, and then the slam of the door. She could faintly see Qri chase after her, the door once again opening and closing.

There was a scream followed by another.

The second was Qri unnie. They all rushed out of the room and saw Hwayoung sprawled out on the floor clutching her ankle, sobbing uncontrollably.  

“My ankle! My ankle!” She cried, finally letting go of her proud demeanor. 

The noise brought many of the staff over. Suddenly, as if it was planned Hwayoung glared at Jiyeon and pointed. “This is your fault! This is all your fault!”

Jiyeon didn’t even flinch. Instead she turned around and walked away. 

She didn't know then, but this was a mistake. One that would haunt her for the rest of her life.

…

Jiyeon stared out the window of the moving van. They drove through the long cement streets, carrying the three members towards Seoul. 

Ahreum, who sat beside Jiyeon, nervously talked to Hyomin. "What are we going to do about Japan? Are we still going?”

“I don’t know, but our manager said to keep everything a secret until he tells the CEO.” Hyomin answered calmly.

Jiyeon who had finally calmed down, felt remorseful now of her attitude.

“I’m sorry. It’s my fault isn’t it.” Jiyeon apologized in a meek voice.

“It’s not your fault Jiyeon. She got what she had coming to her.” Hyomin grumbled in her defense.

“It’s really not your fault Unnie. I feel so bad for Dani now though. We were good friends during our trainee days.” Ahreum added. 

Jiyeon smiled, thankful for their assurances. But somehow she still felt guilty. She felt guilty towards Dani, she felt guilty towards her other members. What had she done?

…7.24.2012

KOREABOO: T-ara member Ryu Hwayoung shows up to airport limping and requiring managers assistance. MBK Entertainment has yet to release a statement.

… 

“Unnie, I’m dying.” Ahreum was gasping for breath as she leaned against Qri's shoulder.

Jiyeon felt heavy sweat pour down her forehead as she stared at the time.

They had been practicing for 8 hours now. Without Hwayoung. They had changed the choreography for each person to accomodate the loss of a member.

“She’s not even hurt.” Hyomin scowled. “The doctor said—”

“She knows herself better than we do.” Qri interrupted her. “Even if we disagree with her actions, she is still a member of this group and a sister.”

Jiyeon had always respected her Leader. But she disagreed now. After hearing everything, how could you take her side? 

“Why are you defending her? You know what she did?” Jiyeon questioned.

“Yah, I think Hwayoung is in the wrong here.” Eunjung agreed with Jiyeon.

“How would you feel if you were singled out by everyone and targeted by people you live with everyday?”

They all stood in silence at their leaders words. She was right. Jiyeon for a second, felt pity towards Hwayoung. 

"Now you can mope around or we can keep practicing so that our performance isn’t affected by this.” Qri scolded them.

They all nodded in agreement at the last statement.

Jiyeon still couldn’t forgive Hwayoung, but they needed to focus on the performance. 

“This is our first Budokan concert so let’s win!” Boram brightened up the mood with her cute energy. 

“I agree, let’s just do well for everyone!” Soyeon added on.

… 7.25.2012

SOOMPI: T-ara member Hwayoung does not show up to practices before Budokan concert. Likely to not perform. MBK releases statements explaining she tripped on her way from the dressing room.

… 

“She’s just hiding in her hotel room.” Hyomin seethed as she sat down next to Jiyeon, both of her fists clenched. “The nerve! Here we are working our butts off and she got her nails done?”

“She’s hurt I guess.” Boram defended her. 

“Then why are the managers saying all the doctors are giving her an ok?” Soyeon questioned in a similar annoyance.

Jiyeon sighed. Why was she doing this? Was her pride this much that she couldn’t face them anymore.

She couldn’t believe it. The whole group might suffer now. After sacrificing so much for T-ara, Jiyeon had believed that everyone, including Hwayoung, would've sacrificed when put in a similar position. She was beginning to rethink it now.

“The concert is in four hours.” Qri began. “The managers said we should go get ready.”

“I’m going to call her.” Hyomin grumbled. “She can’t just ignore us!”

Jiyeon nodded as she approached Qri. 

“I’m sorry. This is because of me.” She apologized bowing her head in shame.

“Jiyeon it’s no one’s fault, it was an accident that she fell.” Qri assured her, tipping her chin up with her hand.

“I know but…” Jiyeon felt guilty.

“Just try and resolve things.” Qri advised her. “That’s the best thing right now.”

Jiyeon watched as their manager beckoned for her to get her makeup done.

She followed her manager backstage as she stared at the vast empty arena. In a few hours there would be 10,000 fans filling every seat.

It was amazing how their popularity had grown. Every T-ara release shot to the top of the Korean and Japanese Billboards. Now even their concerts were finding the same sucess.

They had all almost lost their minds when they were told the arena had sold out in 10 minutes. 

…

Korea Digest: In response to T-ara’s Hwayoung not showing up to practice, T-ara member's Hyomin sends first tweet emphasizing determination. Other members Eunjung and Soyeon tweet in agreement. 

… 

“Why the hell did you do that?” Qri was furious as she paced back and forth in front of them. Finally stopping and glaring at Hyomin the 'ring leader'. 

“I’m frustrated that’s why!” Hyomin revealed.

Jiyeon was shocked when she heard about the tweets. The managers had quickly gathered all the members together, and taken away their phones. Qri promising to settle the situation among them. 

“We’re performing in an hour!” Boram argued. "Why would you?"

“We barely slept. Is it wrong for us to question how much she cares about us? Especially after she said those things to Jiyeon. She seems selfish to me.” Soyeon retorted clearly ticked off as well.

“Unnies, please. Let’s not get angry right now. We’re going to perform soon.” Ahreum tried to calm them down. "I’ll just text her sister asking if she’s ok."

“Thank Ahreum, please do.” Qri ordered before turning back towards the other members. "As for you guys."

Jiyeon was speechles, she couldn’t defend Hwayoung. In fact, she should've been happy that her members were defending her... yet she was worried. What if they had gone overboard to defend her? Had she been the reason they felt the need to do this?

“Hyomin unnie. Please remove the tweet.” She finally mustered up the courage to speak. 

“Why? Jiyeon, after all those awful things she said about you.” Eunjung questioned locking eyes with her.

“I know. I know. But Unnie, I don’t think it’s a good idea for you to complain publically.” She hated that she was defending Hwayoung, but she had to.

Suddenly the door opened and in walked... speak of the devil. 

Jiyeon was surprised, instead of anger there was hurt. Fear, sadness, betrayal. All things she had made Jiyeon feel. 

Was she supposed to pity her now?

“You really mean that? Hyomin unnie?” Tears flooded down Hwayoung's face as she stared at Hyomin in disgust. “You hate me that much? You too Soyeon unnie?”

Jiyeon couldn't decide... either she was a really good actor or there was genuine betrayal in her eyes. 

“Hwayoung, please understand.” Qri reasoned with her.

But before anyone could talk, she stormed out again. The door slamming behind her.

“Wow, she sure can run for a hurt ankle.” Hyomin jeered.

But Jiyeon wasn’t listening. Perhaps it was fear or pity... but she found herself running after the girl she had just resented.

“Hwayoung-a!” She called for her as she watched Hwayoung dash into an empty dressing room.

The door slammed shut in her face and she heard the latch seal shut. Jiyeon pounded on the door helplessly. 

What was she trying to do?

“Hwayoung-a!" 

“What do you want?” Her voice screamed out from behind the door.

“Hyomin unnie and Soyeon unnie are just frustrated.” Jiyeon appealed. "Please—"

“ off!" 

Jiyeon wanted to leave then and there. But she didn’t.

Her mind conflicted. She still hated this girl. Yet, in her heart. She forgave her. 

What was more important was their group, if she could just swallow her pride, her dignity, her feelings if she had to. Then everything would be alright. She had already sacrificed so much. What was a little more?

She slumped against the door, her back slowly sliding down the white plaster in defeat.

“I’m sorry. For grabbing you.” She apologized. “I’m sorry for saying those mean things.”

She could hear the sobs coming from inside. 

“I hate you.” Hwayoung whispered.

Jiyeon clenched her teeth, but quickly calmed herself.

“You can hate me then. You can call me names. But you’re going to hurt all of the unnies too if you don’t come out.” 

There was silence. 

“Qri unnie has been defending you up until now. Doesn’t she deserve better than this?” Jiyeon reasoned. "Boram unnie too."

There was a choking sound as she could hear more sobs bellow out.

“Yes.” Hwayoung finally forced out.

“Then just come out and we can work this out.” Jiyeon consoled her. 

It was a 30 seconds, maybe a minute, but slowly the door unlocked. Jiyeon stood up to greet her.

Hwayoung limped out. Jiyeon eyed her all the way back. Something still felt suspicious.

…7.26.2012

Soompi: T-ara successfully performs to kick off the concert with Maknae Jiyeon centering as the star. The crowd chants Hwayoung’s name at the end of the concert to honor the injured member. T-ara members tear up at the end of the concert.

…

“Please Hwayoung, can you perform one song?” The manager was on his knees in front of her. “Just 'Day by Day', the choreography is fairly safe.”

“Fine... but let me use a chair.” Hwayoung comprimised. 

The other members stared in horror at Hwayoung, at their manager.

She looked like a queen sitting in a chair, their manager completely forsaking his pride. Jiyeon clenched her teeth breathing out in frustration. This was not what she had pictured when Hwayoung had offered to make things right.

Hyomin didn't look any happier.

“Anything else you need my queen?” She inquired sarcastically.

Qri slapped her on the back immediately silencing her.

“Tell us if your ankle hurts at any point. We’ll help you.” Qri offered.

Hwayoung hesitantly nodded hearing the leader's encouragement.

“She could apologize.” Eunjung grumbled before scoffing as she left.

Jiyeon stared at her phone there was so much going on she hadn’t even had time to check her messages. She was tired, she was upset, but at least thigns were settling down.

Hyojoon (oppa)

HYOJOON: everything ok with Hwayoung-si?

Jiyeon hesitated, she wanted to rant to her brother. But he wasn’t one to keep a secret. She knew that he would complain to her parents and then they would panic and worry.

So she kept it in again. She suppressed her frustration.

JIYEON: She’s getting better.

HYOJOON: Ok

HYOJOON: Are you ok? 

JIYEON: I’m fine oppa, just nervous for the performance

HYOJOON: Jiyeon fighting!

HYOJOON: omma and appa are cheering for you too!

Jiyeon closed her phone, the performance would be soon. 

Jiyeon was part of the intro. She stepped onto a platform directly under the stage. Her managers checking that her mic was working and the sound system was fully operational.

“Thank you for you hard work.” She bowed humbly towards them.

They smiled back at her and nodded.

She stared at the ground. It was almost over. This concert, the music bank and that was it. Then they could rest. Then they could figure this whole fiasco out.

“introducing T-ara!”

Music boomed through the speakers as smoke and mist was played all around the stage.

Right on que the stage elevated as Jiyeon remained staring at the ground. When she was visible. The crowd cheered loudly.

This made it worth it. This was why Jiyeon had become an idol.

“JIYEON! JIYEON! JIYEON!” The sound of male voices chanted.

She looked up. Then she gave her iconic gaze. Staring into the seemingly endless rows of fans.

Around her more smoke covered the stage.

As the smoke disappated her members appeared through the fog. A loud EDM type beat began to play.

Slowly the smoke cleared revealing all of the members together. They all began to sway back and forth as T-ara’s hit 'Lovey Dovey' began. 

The crowd chanted each members name making such a loud noise that at some points Jiyeon couldn’t hear her own music.

They performed through their hit songs, and finally played their newest song 'Day by Day'.

Two managers rushed onto the stage and placed a chair on the side. 

Jiyeon tried her best to withhold any emotions as they watched a manager help Hwayoung into the chair. For a second she could see a smirk from her. But Jiyeon didn’t react.

Their final song began. 

…

KOREABOO: T-ara’s 2nd performance starts epically with Park Jiyeon taking center stage. Injured member Hwayoung heroically appears for 'Day by Day' to perform one song in a chair. Crowd once again chants her name as she leaves tears in her eyes.

… 7.27.2012

“We will be beginning our descent into Incheon airport, South Korea.” The pilot spoke through the PA.

Jiyeon slowly opened her eyes. She had slept through the whole flight, exhausted by the gruesome schedule

She was leaning on Hyomin's shoulder, who in contrast was wide awake. 

“They chanted her name. They didn’t even know the truth, and they chanted her name.” Hyomin grumbled aloud aggresively.

“Hyomin, you should apologize for the tweet.” Jiyeon begged her Unnie. “Please. Do it for me.” 

“I’m not gonna apologize for saying the truth.” Hyomin retorted.

The plane bumped up and down as the landing gear met the cement. Jiyeon gazed toward Hyomin widening her eyes as much as possible. Knowing exactly the amount of cuteness she had to portray to overwhelm her unnie's barriers.

“I hate that face.” Hyomin grumbled defeated. “Fine.”

“Quick announcement, there will be an injured passenger being helped off the plane first. Please be patient and understanding.” The pilot spoke again.

Jiyeon could barely believe her eyes as two attendants helped Hwayoung out of her seat and onto a wheelchair to roll her out. Was this necessary?

They exited the plane and saw her being pushed by one of their managers. No one said anything. 

They head straight to the KBS building to prepare for the music bank.

Jiyeon rushed out of the van as she arrived. Cameras everywhere were taking pictures of them. That was the first time Jiyeon realized it... Hwayoung wasn't sorry. She was putting on a show.

“Hwayoung-si are you ok?”

“Hwayoung-si while you still be performing today?"

"Hwayoung-si what happened?"

"Hwayoung-si were those tweets directed towards you?"

The questions were endless. Jiyeon couldn’t help but wonder if she truly enjoyed all the attention.

The grin hidden behind Hwayoung's fake sorrowful face told her all she needed to know.

Jiyeon collapsed onto a couch in their waiting room, the other’s did as well. 

“I’m sorry.”

Jiyeon could faintly hear Hyomin talking with Hwayoung outside of the door.

“I forgive you. But I wish you wouldn’t always take Jiyeon’s side. It pisses me off how clique-ie this group is."

“What does this have to do with her? I made the tweet and I’m apologizing.” Hyomin raised her voice in defense. 

“Whatever you say Unnie.” Hwayoung scoffed. 

Jiyeon didn’t care anymore. She was done with that girl.

Done with her attitude.

She closed her eyes trying to rest before it was time to rehearse. She passed out instantly.

… 

Soompi: Fan’s head to forums to give their input on the cryptic tweets sent out by T-ara’s Hyomin, Eunjung, and Soyeon. Their agency denies any bad blood between the members, netizens disagree.

…

Jiyeon sighed in relief as they finally finished the rehearsal. Hwayoung was on the side of the stage seated in a wheel chair.

As easy as it would be to roll her off the stage. Jiyeon held back, instead she just sighed in disappointment.

“Where did Ahreum go?” Qri suddenly questioned gathering her breath.

Jiyeon scanned around the stage. She had just been there. Right beside her.

The other members began to panic as they realized the new maknae had disappeared. 

“I’ll look for her.” The manager assured them. “You guys go back to your waiting room.”

They all nodded. But Jiyeon excused herself to use the restroom. On her way to the restroom she passed by SNSD’s Seohyun. 

Jiyeon wasn't really paying attention, but she felt a light tap on her shoulder.

“Excuse me? Jiyeon-si?” Seohyun inquired. 

“Yes. Sunbae-nim.” Jiyeon immediately turned around and bowed to her. 

“I know it may not be my place to say. But I think your member is having a hard time.” Seohyun revealed pointing to the door of the ladies room.

Jiyeon prayed that it was Ahreum. She quickly bowed and rushed inside— silence.

Then there was a tiny whimper. Then another.

The sound of a young girl weeping from inside one of the stalls. 

“Ahreum is that you?” Jiyeon hesitated as she heard a tiny gasp, then more muffled sniffles. “Are you ok?”

“Unnie, I’m so scared.”

Fear. 

Instictively Jiyeon knocked on the door. 

“Please open the door.”  Jiyeon begged.

There was no answer. Then slowly the latch slide open and Jiyeon pushed it open to find Ahreum hunched over sitting against the toilet, her hands covering her eyes.

Jiyeon knelt beside and quickly wrapped her arms around her.

“What’s wrong?” Jiyeon pleaded. "Who did this to you?"

“I’m so scared unnie.” She was trying to gather her words. She finally lowered her hands to reveal pure terror. “What if she kills me unnie?” 

“Who?” Jiyeon questioned, quickly standing up to look for whoever had threatened her.

“Hyoyoung Sunbae-nim.” Ahreum sputtured out her name. 

Jiyeon noticed it now. Ahreum's phone was laying on the cold ground in front of her. Her messages open.

Jiyeon snatched it up. Then stared in horror as she read the threatening messages.

…

“Hwayoung, I’ve defended you up until now. Even when I didn't agree with you. But enough is enough! You need to apologize for your sister and tell her to apologize as well!” Qri ordered towering over Ryu Hwayoung.

Hwayoung remained steadfast through the scolding with a smug expression, sitting indifferently in her wheelchair.

All the members had gathered around her to confront her. Besides Ahreum, who had to be calmed down in another room. Even their managers didn't try to stop them this time.

“So, you’re all going to gang up on me like this?” She continued playing the victim glancing around for anyone to support her.

But there was no one. Hwayoung had revealed her true colors to everyone.

“I won’t stand for this kind of bullying.” Qri’s voice was firm.

Even Jiyeon trembled as she heard the harsh words from their usually calm leader. 

“Either your sister apologizes or you leave!" Qri offered up a final ultimatum.

The mood weighed heavy on everyone, each member glared at her cornering her.

Surely this would make her apologize. Even those who had defended her stood against her.

She grinned, a tiny giggle piercing her lips. Then another, which were followed by a chorus of giggles. A near psychopathic laugh echoing from .

Jiyeon stared in horror at her reaction. Who was this?

“You’re all gonna regret this! I hope T-ara burns to pieces!” Hwayoung leered a giant grin on her face.

“Get out now!” Boram snapped.

With that Hwayoung stood up from the wheel chair and stormed out the door.

Jiyeon felt her entire body frozen solid. A million scenarios had gone through her head. But this wasn’t how any of them ended. 

Everyone seemed completely unnerved by her reaction. Had she really just left? Left T-ara? 

However, Qri was quick to compose herself. 

“We’re performing without her tonight.” Qri announced making the final decision. 

…

Korea digest: T-ara’s Day by Day places 2nd to Super Junior y Free and Single, as audience vote negatively impacts their previously assured win. T-ara’s Hwayoung who had previously performed seated in a chair was nowhere to be seen during the show. She was not seen leaving with them either. Netizens take to the forums and possible internal Bullying Scandal emerges.

… 7.28.2012

Soompi: MBK reveals announcement regarding T-ara’s Hwayoung will be made on July 30th after Bullying scandals take over the internet.

July 28th 2012.

A sprained ankle during the Ulsan Music Core special T-ara’s Ryu Hwayoung may have been the result of internal bullying within T-ara. 

Here’s what we know: 

Hwayoung is photographed being assisted to Japan and seems in no shape or form to practice with her members. 

Before the first performance, cryptic tweets regarding the determination of the team is put into question by member’s Hyomin, Soyeon, and Eunjung.

Hwayoung appears for one performance where she is unable to even stand.

Hwayoung is spotted in a wheel chair as she is rolled into KBS’s music bank. 

Hwayoung disappears for the duration of the Music Bank and is not seen leaving with them.

Netizens have already begun to question the good intentions of the tweets. A top comment is shown below:

[+21,456 -17,789] "If this is true, I am very disappointed in T-ara’s members for the way they handled this. If a member of your team is injured then their health should be the number one priority. Not winning an award or putting on a show. It hurt me to see Hwayoung have to perform in the seat. I hope she gets well soon."

T-ara’s Hwayoung who debuted later than the other members, has been cited as being distant to the other members during interviews and even Variety shows. 

Be sure to stay notified as we bring you more information on the subject.

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Top comments:

“I really hope this is all just a misunderstanding, but the tweets are hard to deny. I hope Hwayoung get’s well soon, and will be awaiting the announcement.”

“I always thought Hyomin and Eunjung seemed clique like in their friendship, I wonder if they bullied her because of her late addition.”

“I hope the pretty Jiyeon is not involved. I don’t think this is like the T-ara girls to do, at least based on their interviews. But you never know.”

…7.29.2012

The seven members of T-ara stared at the CEO as he seemed surprisingly calm.

The ambiance was gloomy. Jiyeon knew that bullying rumors were affecting everyone. 

Jiyeon couldn’t believe that the public had taken a side so quickly without even knowing a quarter of the facts.

“After offering her two options. I am with heavy regret forced to announce that Ryu Hwayoung has terminated her contract. And will leave T-ara.”  The CEO began.

They all gasped.

Jiyeon remembered Hwayoung’s threats, but she had never imagined she would go through with it.

It was clear from her jealousy that being an idol meant so much to her. How could she give it up? Because of jealousy?

“After hearing your sides of the story, I must agree that there was indeed a lot of mishandling of the situation. The tweets were unacceptable by you three. But, I cannot agree with Hwayoung’s actions. She put your group and the Company in a bad spot.” The CEO announced.

“If you have any questions please ask now.”

Eunjung was the first to raise her hand. “Are we going to continue with the schedule as promised?”

“Yes, for now your comeback will still be scheduled for September 3rd.” He answered.

With all of the hate going around... Jiyeon wondered if it was a good idea.

Boram now held her hand up. “About the bullying controversy... Are we going to address it?”

“Unfortunately, if we do, it will be our word against hers. If we address it, the public will only become more suspicious. We will continue our schedule and show that we have done nothing wrong.” 

Several of the members gasped. Jiyeon one of them. Shouldn't they address it head on? There were so many misunderstandings.

But he was the CEO, he probably knew the media better than her. So she nodded accepting his decision.

Jiyeon raised her hand. She had something on her chest. A guilt she wanted to relieve.

“Yes Jiyeon-si.” 

She stood up and faced her members.

“I would like to apologize for my actions that day. I have put both my unnies and the company in a bad situation.” She bowed deeply ashamed by her actions.

“Miss Park, I asked for questions only. Not apologies.”

Jiyeon sat down.

“As I see it, you have done nothing wrong. You have nothing to apologize for, we just need to wait for the scandal to blow over.” He assured them. 

Jiyeon still had a bad feeling about the situation despite the CEO’s assurances.

…7.30.2012

KOREABOO: MBK CEO releases statement regarding the termination of T-ara’s Hwayoung’s contract. States has no relation to any bullying scandal simply finds her attitude unable to work with teammates.

…8.1.2012 

SOOMPI: Bullying Scandal confirmed? Netizens find evidence linking T-ara’s Jiyeon to bullying Ryu Hwayoung.

August 1st 2012

After many billions of theories, a stage worker states in details the day of the accident. Netizens all over the internet have been finding possible evidences of bullying from variety show appearances to dirty looks. However, today a stage worker at the Ulsan concert venue who had been released right before the concert was revealed on a message board site.

Though the message has since been deleted a summary will be given:

The worker recounts that he had gone to get his stuff from the locker and had heard shouting and screaming from one of the rooms. He later saw Idol A on the floor screaming as former maknae Idol B stood above her. Idol A's cries for help revealed that it had been Idol B who had pushed her, likely causing the injury.

This statement can only confirm what has been thought of by the Netizens of the possible bullying reports. Idol A being Ryu Hwayoung and Idol B assumed to be T-ara's Park Jiyeon.

Other netizens have pointed to the fact that Kim Dani had also not joined T-ara despite being announced as a possible new member. Possible reports that Park Jiyeon might have bullied her as well have emerged.

Jiyeon and T-ara have yet to make a statement.

What do you think of this scandal? I for one am horrified by it. 

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Top Comments:

“I cannot begin to state how disappointed I am by Jiyeon and the rest of T-ara who supported her actions, ganging up against the helpless Hwayoung. I wish her the best in recovery and hope the others get what they deserve. T-ara you just lost a fan.”

“I am horrified to think I once shipped this Bully, named Jiyeon, with my Myungsoo Oppa. I am glad he’s not dating a b*tch like her.”

“I cannot believe that I have ever been her fan. She seems so cute on variety shows, but I guess that arrogant face of her’s doesn’t lie. Jiyeon I hope you get what you deserve.”

"Are we sure that Jiyeon is even Idol B? I'm disgusted by this quick reaction of netizens. Wait for real evidence to come out!"