Six bodyguards were lined up inside the waiting room to meet a group of conglomerates. Currently, the group was to be made at this moment as this was part of PD Royal Academy’s regime. 

PD Royal Academy was a place for the elite students and bodyguard students. The main custom was that each elite must have a bodyguard. Choosing of bodyguards varies from time to time – sometimes the faculty picks the pairings and sometimes elites choose their favored bodyguards. For today, the top elites of the academy were going to choose their bodyguard for the semester.

They faced the assigned faculty, professors Kang Jihyun and Yoon Bora. They sat across the elites in a long table as the bodyguards were on their way. Jihyun and Bora were silent as they faced the top elites.

Jang Wonyoung was holding her cat Elizabeth. Miyawaki Sakura was playing her Switch. Jo Yuri was listening to music on her orange Bluetooth headset. Yabuki Nako was eating her mint chocolate ice cream. Kim Minju was checking herself on her compact mirror. And the most powerful Kwon Eunbi just sat and looked at the door, waiting for the bodyguards to arrive.

“It’s about time you showed up, President Kim, VP Bae.” Jihyun sighed.

The elites greeted the top faculty of the university, President Kim Eunyoung and Vice-President Bae Yoonjung. The president had short hair and a tenacious look whereas the vice-president had longer hair and a more tenacious look. President Kim calls the bodyguards out and they of them lined up. The elites were directly intrigued and had their picks in mind.

Ahn Yujin was the tallest and had the goofy impression. Choi Yena bowed and maintained a serious look yet her pouty lips say otherwise. Honda Hitomi was the smallest and cutest one; her beauty almost mistaken for an elite. Kim Chaewon had a tenacious look like President Kim, making the elites gulp lightly. But the one that outshone them all was Lee Chaeyeon for she was the best of them all.
And for someone like Eunbi, she was eager to choose her.

“Wait a minute. Where’s the last one?”

“She’ll arrive soon, Bora. That kid…” Yoonjung sighed then they heard footsteps. “That must be her…”

“Sorry, I’m late…” She bowed as she fixed her blond hair and flapped her collar.

“This is the second time your late, Kang Hyewon.” Eunyoung spat. “How long will you do this?”

“Until I get a nearer apartment, Mrs. President.”

Eunbi was somehow intrigued. She had a structure than the typical Korean female but her proportions were wonderful and fit for being a bodyguard, even close to being an idol. She also maintained a serious look after the talk that made Eunbi’s heart skip a beat.

Weird.

“Lee Chaeyeon-ssi.” Bora spoke and Chaeyeon responded with a little bow. “I heard you’re one of Kim Juhyung-nim’s apprentice. And as we all know, Kim Juhyung-ssi is one of the best bodyguards in the industry; a veteran at best.”

Chaeyeon nodded. Yoonjung was like a proud mom and patted the girl’s back. “She is, Bora-ssi. She’s been the best in the academy.” 

Chaeyeon nodded silently again and she never thought that her credibility would be debunked again. That little course of action made her uneasy because of the other bodyguards.

“Before we get started with the selection, good day to you, IZ*ONE.” Eunyoung began and the elites greeted back. “Today’s the start of  the new semester and the start of a new selection. Unlike the previous semesters where you picked from a wide range of bodyguards, you will only select from the best six.”

They were intrigued and were privileged for the opportunity; an additional privilege from all the other ones. 

“How will the selection be done this time?” Nako asked.

“We’re choosing, Nako-chan.” Sakura spoke. 

The faculty chuckled, making the elites and the bodyguards wonder.

“You never fail to impress us, Yabuki.” Jihyun spoke. “Good thing you asked because we lied about letting you pick.”

The elites reacted yet Yoonjung shushed them. Bora got a fish bowl with rolled paper inside, adding. “You will draw a bodyguard’s name from here. Whoever you picked will be your bodyguard. Simple as that.”

“Holy …” Yuri hissed. “If someone gets to pick Chaeyeon, she’ll be so lucky.”

“Yes.” Minju nodded. 

“This is unexpected.” Wonyoung joined in. “I have my fresh dibs on Eunbi and Sakura in picking the best.”

Most eyes were on the Top 2 elites. Both had the competitive look in their eyes. Eunbi already planned to choose Chaeyeon but with the lottery, she had to increase her luck. Sakura had enough of being second that she wanted to beat Eunbi this time.

“Attention!” Yoonjung spat and the bodyguards got into formation. “Greet your elites now.”

They bowed at the elites and got greetings and looks back, mostly aimed at Chaeyeon. They were fascinated that she was buffer and taller than most female bodyguards. It was her unique beauty that stood out and most members couldn’t avert.

“Alright…all of you will pick first then we’ll reveal them together.” Jihyun shuffled the papers inside and lets Wonyoung pick first.

Wonyoung got her roll and the rest followed. Eunbi was the last to pick and she sighed and hoped that the last paper was Chaeyeon’s name. She picked it up and Bora retrieves the empty bowl.

“On the count of three, look at your picks.” Yoonjung spoke. “One. Two. Three.”

The elites opened the roles and had various reactions. Sakura had the happiest reaction, leaving the rest to make their hypotheses that she got Chaeyeon. The elites were then asked to reveal their assigned bodyguards.

Wonyoung got Yujin, Yuri got Yena, Nako got Hitomi, and Minju got Chaewon. The hypotheses was proven correct. Sakura got Chaeyeon and – 

“I get to be with you?” Eunbi asked, looking at Hyewon.

“Hey. I’m a good bodyguard too, Miss Kwon.” Hyewon spoke back.

“I got the feisty one…” Eunbi sighed and face-palmed.

+++

“Please make way~” Yena spoke, her arms stopping fans from getting too close.

Flashes of cameras were in their field of vision. IZ*ONE waved at the fans as they receive gifts to which their bodyguards receive for them. The six elites may have fellow elites as fans but with their popularity, they had a fandom thanks to them.

“First time?” Chaeyeon asked as Hyewon struggled to keep a fan calm.

“Is that even a question I need to hear again and again, Yeon?” Hyewon asked, squinting as the flash was directly at her face.

“Just curious.” Chaeyeon patted her back.

Chaeyeon led the bodyguards to proceed to Plan B; the use of carts. The rest of the bodyguards continued to protect the girls and maintained a pace while Yena and Hyewon got to the carts. They changed their formations and helped the members up the carts. Hyewon and Eunbi took the longest to hop on because Hyewon tripped as she helped Eunbi up. Nonetheless, six carts drove out.

“You’re hopeless, Kang.”

Hyewon sighed. “Cut me some slack, Miss Kwon. It’s my first time doing this.”

“Seriously?!” Eunbi raised. “How are you dubbed as one of the best if it’s your first time?”

“With all due respect, Your Eminence…” Hyewon spoke while driving. “I think my information is not worth your concern. As you said, I’m hopeless.”

Eunbi couldn’t believe it. She was the top elite yet the mysterious bodyguard’s not afraid to talk to her. She thought it was offensive because bodyguards have no right to talk back to their assigned elites.

But somehow, she found it intriguing and hot at the same time.

+++

Hyewon looked like a statue with the rest of the bodyguards. They were up front, watching their elites do their rehearsals for the school concert. Yena and Yujin were doing rounds within the stage whereas she and Chaeyeon were assigned with the staff.

“They’ve worked hard. What do you think, Kwangbae?” Chaeyeon spoke.

Hyewon couldn’t agree more. She was with the elites – mostly with Eunbi – since day one. Like the rest, she was enlightened about the elites having flashes of cameras and faces in front of them. Despite being assigned to protect Eunbi, Hyewon watched her progress  – from watching their recordings to minimizing her hysteria. 

“You’re right, Chaeyeon-nim.”

“Cut the formalities. We’re neck to neck on this.” He added. “I know you want a low profile but you deserve the recognition too.”

Hyewon smiled lightly yet her eyes were teary. Chaeyeon sighed and patted her head lightly. “Aish…don’t go all soft like that. You’ll make me cry too.”

“I can’t help it sometimes. I just want you to have that because you deserve it more.” 

“With that, I’ll be forever indebted to you.”

Hyewon nodded her thanks and returned to watch over. She continued to look up front when she saw a silhouette. Chaeyeon noticed it afterwards and instructed Yena and Yujin to check the backstage.

“It’s been a long time seeing you two.”

Another bodyguard got to them. She bowed at them and patted their heads. 

“It’s been indeed a while, Lee Kaeun-nim.” Hyewon spoke. “What brought you here, though?”

“Kaeun-nim’s the academy’s third top Lone Wolf; bodyguards who can be assigned anywhere at anytime.” Chaeyeon spoke. “So…who gave the extra services, Kaeun-nim?”

“You don’t need to ask. I’m sure you know.”

Hyewon had her guess but she didn’t say anything. Chaeyeon also had hers and her conscience was enraged.

“I sense a person in here. Why don’t you check it out, Kwangbae?” Kaeun asked.

“No. I’ll check it out – “

“You were not asked, Yeon. As the leader of our whole sector, you need to obey my instructions.” Kaeun said. “Go on, Kwangbae.”

Hyewon walked quickly, following the silhouette until it disappeared. Meanwhile, IZ*ONE were finished with their first rehearsal and were checking themselves through the monitor. 

“Hm? Hyewon-ssi?” Wonyoung saw their bodyguard go somewhere. “Where is your bodyguard going, Eunbi?”

“Maybe it’s part of their job.” Eunbi shrugged. “Yujin-ssi and Yena-ssi did rounds too.”

“Do you see the way Chaeyeon-nim looked at me?” Minju suddenly asked and squealed.

“You mean with disgust?” Yuri asked back, getting a slap on her shoulder.

“She was looking at me, not you, Min.” Nako added. “She may look serious but her eyes are sparkly~”

“Aigoo…you are all ogling at Chaeyeon again.” Sakura spoke to end their petty argument. 

“Aigoo…you’re trying to be all high again.” Eunbi spoke back to end her petty reasoning. “I heard Kaeun-nim’s here.”

Everyone’s ears perked up out of excitement. They couldn’t believe the top Lone Wolf was in the vicinity, making them conclude that one of them favored a special task.

“It’s none of your business.” Sakura spoke then whispered to Eunbi. “Leave Kaeun-chan out of this.”

“Oh, yeah? I bet Chaeyeon’s disappointed for what you’re doing.” Eunbi whispered back. “How long will you become selfish, Kkura?”

Sakura wanted to fight back but it all had to cease as rambling sounds were heard from the backstage. Panicked screams followed and the bodyguards got to them.

“Everyone, let’s go.” Kaeun spoke. 

All of them sensed the danger and followed the bodyguards. They stealthily went out of the set as Chaeyeon and Kaeun called Hyewon, Yena, and Yujin. They formed a circle around the girls and staff. Yena and Yujin caught up after and joined the circle.

“Where’s Kwangbae?” Kaeun asked.

Yena gulped whereas Yujin had to woman up and tell what happened. She could only whisper it to Kaeun so that the girls and staff won’t feel too much fear. “There was an obsessed fan backstage. Kwangbae went to deal with her because he brought a weapon. The employees have evacuated out and called the police.”

Yena-ya...

“It’s Hyewon.” Yena spoke and IZ*ONE were looking at her. “Kwangbae, where are you?!”

Get the girls and staff to the van. Tell Kaeun-nim and Chaeyeon-nim to drive ahead. 

“What about you?!”

I’ll catch up. 

Yena sighed and relayed the instructions to Kaeun. Kaeun thought it was a good idea and relayed to Chaeyeon on where to go. The walk went smoothly as everyone was obedient to get out for their protection.

IZ*ONE were a little panicked, especially the maknaes Wonyoung and Yuri. Eunbi and Minju comforted them despite being shocked of what’s happening because they had to be strong for the group. Most of all, they were all worried.

For Eunbi, she couldn’t help but worry about Hyewon.

They finally got to the exit, greeting more fans and reporters. Kaeun wanted to slap all of their heads because how could they still do this when there’s imminent danger in their midst? Nonetheless, IZ*ONE hopped inside the two vans and decided to return to their dorms.

“We’ve got explaining to do to President Kim.” Nako spoke. “What happened back there?!”

“An obsessed fan with a weapon got inside the set. Hyewon went to stop her.” Kaeun spoke as she drove. 

“This was a sudden event yet the bodyguards did well in protecting us.” Nako added. “We owe you a lot, Hitomi-ssi, Kaeun-nim, and Yena-ssi.

“Most of all, Hyewon-ssi did well.” Yuri spoke then sighed. “I’m worried about her…”

“All of us are,” said Eunbi, crossing her arms.

“Your actions say otherwise.” Yuri defended. “We’re aware that you don’t treat her well but even in this situation?! How could you stoop so low?!”

“I can’t help this but Yul has a point.” Nako added. “Are you not worried about her?”

Everyone became silent again. Nako and Yuri continue to comfort everyone and each other, hoping and praying that Hyewon will be okay.

Eunbi may not look she’s worried but she was the most worried. She was so worried that she was praying in her conscience.

Because somehow, being away from Hyewon made her uneasy.

+++

All employees sought refuge outside, getting interviews from the reporters about the incident. The police were stationed inside and out, waiting for the culprit to come out. 

Just then, the police pointed their guns up front and became keen as they saw Hyewon handcuffing the fan. She was struggling but Hyewon got a grip on her. The weapon she held was now in a Ziploc.

“Here, officers. He’s all yours.” Hyewon handed both over.

Hyewon walked away and the officers took the fan away. They thanked her for her action, even the reporters and fans flooded to take a picture of her and ask her about her act of bravery but luckily, Hyewon ran away like Flash before anyone could ask any further. Hyewon sought refuge in an alleyway and panted.

She felt triggered. She swore not to fight again but she had to do it.

Eunbi is mine! Mine!

Those were the words the fan spat. Somehow, Hyewon could thank Kaeun for the chance because the task was indeed meant for her. Hyewon dealt with Eunbi’s obsessed fan and she made sure to do anything to protect her.

Just then, Hyewon’s dial beeped and she answered. “What’s up?”

We got a call from the academy. We need to report to VP Bae later.

Hyewon nodded and readied herself to do another run at the academy.

+++

“Yuri-ssi...” Yena nudged her gently. “We’re here.”

Yuri opens her eyes and quickly got up, blushing as she was cuddling to Yena during that sleep. She and Yena went out of the van and followed the rest. As they got inside, students had their eyes towards them, with some giving comments about the situation earlier. Everyone made a conclusion that Chaeyeon and Kaeun saved the day again.

“It was Hyewon who saved us, idiots!” Yuri spat before she stormed off.

Yena was shocked of Yuri’s tone but caught up to the elite, leaving the rest speechless. 

“Yuri-ssi…mind me to say this but it wasn’t right to say that.”

“Is it wrong to say the truth, Yena-ssi?”

“Of course, not…but Hyewon doesn’t like the recognition.” Yena spoke. “She keeps a low profile with stuff like that. I hope you understand.”

“Okay…I won’t do it again.” Yuri nodded.

The duo finally got to the office. They were even shocked that Hyewon was there before them.

“You two must be shocked.” Yoonjung spoke. “She came before any of you.”

Hyewon rubbed her temples as everyone had their reaction. Some clapped, some wowed, and some were shocked in silence.

“Question, VP Bae.” Nako spoke for the elites. “Is that the only reason why we’re called here?”

“That’s not all, Yabuki.” Yoonjung began. “We called here for your reassignments. With the incident earlier, we reckoned that our security system has been compromised. As a result, we’ll need to change your pairs this last minute to provide more protection.”

The bodyguards didn’t react but the elites did. They made bats against it because they were growing closer. Yoonjung slapped her stick on the table to shut them up.

“So will I return to my previous assignment, VP?” Kaeun asked.

“For now, Kaeun-ah.” Yoonjung spoke. 

“VP Bae, you can’t do this!” Sakura stood up. “We get to decide our periods for the bodyguards, remember? Kaeun-san is not going anywhere until I give the word.”

The elites were shocked whereas the bodyguards didn’t make a face. Chaeyeon’s conscience was enraged and Kaeun never wanted that special side of being a bodyguard again. 

Who were they to become against it? That’s how the system has been.

Hyewon yawned, averting the tension towards a funnier atmosphere. Wonyoung and Yujin found it funny whereas Yoonjung was impressed of her action.

“So we’ll be reassigned?” Hyewon asked.

“Pretty much, Kang.” Yoonjung spoke back. “However, we’ll discuss it with the other faculty. Just wait for the word. You’re all dismissed.”

Everyone got out and separated to do their own businesses. Eunbi and Hyewon were the last to exit and Hyewon got to her side again. “What’s today’s words, Eunbi-nim?“

“Hyewon-ah…” 

“Hey, Eunbi-nim.” Hyewon stopped her. “Can you not be tactless with what you say? Just this once?”

Eunbi’s shock when it came to Hyewon’s words was always evident. However, the sass she would use as a counterattack changed into worry. Nonetheless, she and Hyewon walked towards the parked black Ranger. Hyewon lets Eunbi inside first before she got to the passenger’s seat. 

It was never a thing for Eunbi to feel sympathy. Her glamorous life raised her to become bratty and egotistical. Hyewon was treated badly by her words but with Hyewon’s actions in dealing with a possible killer, Eunbi thought she doesn’t deserve all the mistreatment she gave to her. With that, she wanted to do her a favor after everything she did for her. 

“Hyewon-ah…are you okay?”

Hyewon revved the engine loudly. Her hands even clenched on the wheel. “That’s not like you. Why ask me now?”

“I know I’ve been a ty elite to you but elites have responsibilities for their bodyguards too.” Eunbi spoke. “It’s my duty to check on your well-being.”

“You’re a cherry blossom that bloomed late.” Hyewon added. “But as they say, the late bloomers grow the most beautiful of all.”

Eunbi couldn’t believe she was hearing and she couldn’t believe didn’t retreat those words like a . Those words made Eunbi look away so Hyewon didn’t see her blush.

“I’m alright.” Hyewon spoke. “It would be best to talk about it some other time.”

Hyewon finally drove off. Eunbi didn’t say anything this time and looked at the scenery. She also took time to steal glances towards Hyewon. For Hyewon, she sat silently, only to be disrupted by a call from Chaeyeon. 

“For ’s sake…” Hyewon muttered as she puts her wireless earpiece. “Yes, Yeon?”

Kwangbae! Thank God you answered. We saw the news! Are you okay?!

“I’m okay.” Hyewon assured her while rolling her eyes. “How about you guys? Are you okay? Are the girls okay?”

Hyewon-ssi~!!

Hyewon was a bit startled when Yuri’s voice was heard, following rambles from the rest of the bodyguards. Such actions made her tingly.

“I’m fine. There’s nothing to worry about.” Hyewon spoke. 

I also got a text from the agency, Kwangbae. The reassignment is off. We can still be bodyguards to our elites.

“That’s just great...” Hyewon sighed. “Do the girls know?”

Of course, not. They’ll flip out if they know. I won’t tell them because only VP Bae has the right.

“Alright. I need to hang up because I’m driving.” 

Hyewon hung up and returned her focus on the road. She took glances at Eunbi and saw her master sleeping. She drove faster towards her grand home, arriving in less than an hour without any muss or fuss. Other servants inside the home stationed to wait by the garage and Hyewon drives inside, parking the vehicle with ease.

“Good day, Imo.” Hyewon greeted the head maid. “The Little Miss is asleep.”

“Don’t worry, Hyewon-ssi. We’ll take it from here.” She patted her back for a hug. “We prepared some cake. You should go to the kitchen and have a slice.”

Hyewon nodded and hopped off. The other servants took over to carry their master inside when Eunbi was awake. The servants greeted her but she asked. “Where’s Hyewon?”

Hyewon froze as she heard it, leaving her to sigh and return. “Right here.”

“Carry me to bed.” Eunbi demanded as her limbs were crossed.

Hyewon raised an eyebrow yet she did what her master asked. It looked like a scene from the movies as Hyewon carried Eunbi, bridal style. Eunbi was quick to pull closer and hold Hyewon tight. Hyewon’s eyes went wide yet she continued with her task and they got inside the mansion.

It was a simple-looking house that mostly blended within the suburban yet it was huge and aesthetically beautiful with a vintage interior. Hyewon got the code inputted on one of the rooms and got inside, greeting another door. She opened the door with the same code and got inside a bedroom. 

Eunbi’s bedroom.

The interior was sleek and fit for Eunbi’s taste. It had the basic parts of a bedroom including an office with a nice PC. Hyewon placed Eunbi on her bed and checked everything, finding no odd changes in the commodity. Hyewon may have done this many times but protocols were protocols. Nonetheless, she would wonder how Eunbi lived as a young master within her home.

“Why are you still here?” Eunbi asked.

“I apologize for disturbing your beauty rest, Eunbi-nim. I shall go now.” Hyewon bowed and made her way out. 

Eunbi looked at the closed door and sighed to herself. She didn’t mean to say it that way and make Hyewon leave. She said it in ironic hopes that Hyewon will stay beside her.

Eunbi slept in agony but hopefully, she’ll have good dreams.