Chapter 8

Taeyeon looks at herself in the mirror for one last time. She wore a grey-colored coat with maroon cuffs, a plain white t-shirt and a pair of black denim jeans. Instead of the usual ponytail, she decided not to tie her hair today. Her makeup is fairly light. “Alright.” She nodded to herself in the mirror. It’s Sunday evening; around 4.30 P.M. Today would be Jessica’s showcase and she is getting ready to go there.

“What exactly fans do during showcases?” Taeyeon thought to herself as she slipped on a pair of black-colored high heel boots.

She never goes to any concerts or showcases her whole life. It’s not because she wasn’t interested in music. Taeyeon considers herself quite a music lover. But, her time was very much different from kids nowadays. Back then, her parents wouldn’t allow her to go to concerts; mainly because the tickets were expensive. Yet, she never really cared much. For her, it was enough to watch her favorite singers on television.

“Oh, going out today, Taeyeon unnie?” A friendly neighbor asked when she sees Taeyeon exiting her apartment. It’s a rare sight to see the woman out during these times.

“Ah, hey Eunha. Yeah, I have an invitation somewhere.” She answered. Taeyeon is usually not that friendly to her fellow neighbors but Eunha is an exception. The bop-haired girl is too cute to ignore.

Eunha nods with a silent ‘ah.’ “I hope you have a great time then, unnie!” She smiles brightly.

Taeyeon returns back the smile. “Have a nice day too.” They were about to part ways when she suddenly had a question. “Oh wait, Eunha. I wanted to ask you something.”

“Hm, what is it?” Eunha tilted her head.

“If…you go to a concert, what would you do?” Taeyeon asked.

“A concert? Well, the last time I went to one, I brought my light stick.”

“A light-stick? The glowing light thingy with an odd shape?”

Eunha chuckles at Taeyeon’s description of the fan-merchandise item. She nodded anyways. “It’s to show that you belonged to that fandom and you’re supporting the idol. If you don’t have one, you can simply buy a light-stick with the idol’s color or carry a signboard.”

Taeyeon couldn’t really understand what she meant but she just nods to it. “Thanks for telling me. I’ll make sure to remember that.”

“No problem, unnie. Ah, don’t forget the fan-chant too!”

“Alright, alright, fan-chant, got it.” Taeyeon is about to walk away but turns back to Eunha once again. “What do you think of Jessica Jung?”

Eunha gasps. “Jessica from Navice? Oh, she is so talented and pretty too! I really love her.” She replied.

“That’s good to know. See you later.” Taeyeon smiled as she bid her goodbye to the young teen before heading to the parking lot of the building. She wonders how Eunha would react if she ever found out she is friends with the idol.

She might just freak out.

***

Why is this place so crowded?

Taeyeon spent almost one hour just looking for an empty parking space. No wonder these fans would take the bus instead, it’s insanely jammed pack. She finally got out of the car after getting lucky enough to find one parking spot not far-away from there. “I never knew there would be this many people.” She sighed tiredly. After making sure she has all her things including the invitation, she locks her car and heads to the showcase hall.

She is already late. The fans have already entered about half an hour ago. Well, she is fine with just any seats. As long as she can sit down. “Ticket please.” A staff asked at the front asked. Taeyeon takes the invitation out from her purse and gives it to the staff. He immediately recognizes the red envelope in her hand.

“Ah, you’re a VIP guest! Please, come with me.” He quickly escorted Taeyeon to the hall.

Upon entering, she sees the seats are completely full from front to the back. Most of them have their light-sticks and sign-boards; some even looked extravagant with led-lights. They are all anticipating for their favorite group to come out. “Here’s your seat.” The staff bowed to her before leaving. Taeyeon sits down. She notices how the two seats next to her are empty.

“My family is in the U.S, they can’t attend it.”

“This must be for her family.” Taeyeon thought. She glances on the side and sees the other VIP seats are full. It must be the other member’s family and friends. Seeing how many of them came to support her, it aches Taeyeon’s heart a little knowing Jessica only has her. No wonder she was so sad when she rejected her invitation before. It was a good idea to come here. At least, Jessica knows she has someone.

Taeyeon is completely un-aware someone was staring at her from head to toe. The man is none other than the CEO of the entertainment label. From where she is sitting, he knew she came here to watch Jessica perform. He glances at his wrist-watch and goes ahead to excuse himself. Of course, the over-confident man takes the chance to approaches Taeyeon before the show starts.

“Hello there, young lady.” He faked a sweet smile.

“Oh, hello.” Taeyeon greeted back without much of a smile in return. Judging from his expensive suit, she knows right away this man must be an important person from the company. She is right.

“My name is Jang Bonhwa. I’m sure you’ve heard of me before.”

“No, doesn’t really ring a bell, sorry.” She swears she could his annoyed expression for a brief second there. It was funny to her how he is trying so hard to be recognized. He quickly clears his throat before casually sitting down next to Taeyeon.

“Are you a friend of Jessica’s? Did you come here to support her?” He tried to strike another conversation.

“Yes, isn’t that obvious, Bonhwa-ssi?” Taeyeon replied plainly. The man dryly chuckles. She can see that he is already irritated by her. Yet, he still sits there, acting as if he isn’t bother by the sarcasm.

“Bonhwa-ssi? I believe you’re too young to call me informally.”

Taeyeon simply smiles. “If you are in your 30s, then we could be the same age or you might even be younger.” The moment he knows her age, his gentleman persona immediately went out the window. The smile he had earlier turns upside down almost instantly. Such an enjoyable view to see.

“I’m guessing that you misunderstood me for some sixteen years old teen? I mean, teens are much easier to manipulate and take advantage of, isn’t it? Now, that’s just a dangerous game you’re playing there, Bonhwa-ssi.” Taeyeon clicked her tongue. Bonhwa feels very much piss off by the way she spoke. He tried to maintain a compose expression but his irritation is too obvious at this point.

“Kim Taeyeon-ssi?” Seulgi called as she headed towards her. Bonhwa quickly stands up to go back to his seat; pretending as if the conversation never happens.

“You came.” Seulgi smiled brightly. But, something else is bothering her. “Why does CEO Bonhwa sits here earlier? Did he say anything?”

Taeyeon just simply shrugs it off. “Nothing much. He just greeted me.”

“Ah, I see. Well, I’m really glad you came. Thank you so much…really.” Seulgi bowed.

“Oh, please don’t. It’s nothing much. You don’t have to thanked me.” Taeyeon said.

“But, I want to. It means a lot for Jessica to see you here.” Seulgi smiled. She really cares about Jessica. Sure, she is her manager. But, their ‘working-together’ status eventually evolved to a tight-knitted friendship overtime. She wanted to see the singer to go out there and be happy while performing. Happiness is what she desperately needs; after all the abuses she received daily.

After chatting for a short while, Seulgi excuses herself to leave backstage. The lights soon turn dim and the fans cheer loudly. It’s time for Taeyeon to take out her phone. A few minutes later, the two singers come on stage while greeting the fans with waves and sweet smiles.

Jessica is wearing her stage outfit for the opening performance. Her brown hair is styled in a curly fashion and her makeup is fairly light. Despite the countless days she spent practicing and rehearsing non-stop, she still appears amazingly beautiful.

“Hello, we are Navice!” The duo introduced themselves as fans cheered for them. Jessica seems to be looking for someone. A bright smile appears on her face as soon as she sees Taeyeon sitting at the VIP section. The older woman smiles in return while showing her phone with ‘Go, Go, Sica’ written on screen. It made Jessica happier than ever. Summer notices it. She glances at Taeyeon.

“Ah, that again.”

The showcase begins. The duo singers performed on-stage as fans continuously cheer. Taeyeon watches as Jessica singing and dancing to the song. She understands now why Summer despises her fellow member. The woman certainly outshines her presence. It’s not because she is younger. Jessica is simply way more talented than Summer. She has lesser lines and always dancing behind Summer, yet she gets the loudest cheers from the fans. She becomes the center of attention for every single performance.

Song Summer, how much did you feel threatened by Jessica Jung?

After a few group performances, it’s time for the solo. Of course, Summer is the first one to go up on stage. Taeyeon sighs heavily at the sight of the woman trying desperately to not sing off-key while dancing to a choreography that she can barely keep up with. At this point, she might just pity her. Suddenly, Taeyeon feels someone tapping on her shoulder and she turns to the side to see Seulgi again.

“Hey, Jessica’s backstage. You should go and meet her.”

The two women enter backstage. Taeyeon is handed with a special access card to wear around her neck. This way, the staffs can recognized her as a VIP. They go through the crowded hallways before reaching the waiting room for Jessica. Seulgi heads in first, followed by Taeyeon from behind. The people in the room are either busy or simply sitting there with their devices.

“Jessica, Taeyeon’s here.” Seulgi whispered to the idol. Jessica quickly looks at Taeyeon who is standing not far from where she is sitting. She happily smiles. “You’ve made it!”

“I did.” Taeyeon smiled back. “You were great out there earlier.”

“Of course, I did tell you I’ll do my best cause you’re watching me!”

“Tch, fine, fine.” Taeyeon felt amuse by Jessica’s self confidence. Well, she loves her better that way. At least, she won’t hear her discrediting her own efforts. Jessica wants to continue their conversation but the hair-stylist haven’t finish doing her hair yet. She properly sits as the stylist continues to do her job. Seulgi offers Taeyeon a cup of coffee and leaves the room when a staff calls her. Taeyeon sits down on the leather sofa; a bit far from the others.

She silently stares at Jessica’s reflection on the mirror. She chuckles silently when she sees the poor woman falling asleep after sitting there for a while now. No one is looking at her. So, she takes out her phone to secretly take a picture of the sleeping beauty from behind. She satisfyingly smiles at the great shot.

“Finally.” Jessica stretched her sore limb. She didn’t forget to praised and thanked the hair-stylist for her hard-work. After one last minute check on her makeup, she approaches Taeyeon; doing a small twirl with her medium-length white dress. “How do I look?” She tilted her head to the side.

Taeyeon hums as her eyes go from head to toe. “You look beautiful.” She praised. The way her genuine deep voice complementing makes Jessica blushes. She quickly goes to look for the accessories to hide her redden cheeks. It made Taeyeon more pleased to see her reaction. She gets up and stands next to Jessica.

“Did you pick one yet?” Taeyeon asked. Jessica sighs silently and shook her head. “Can I pick one for you then?”

“It’s okay, I won’t be wearing any of these.” Jessica quickly replied.

“Why’s that? Is it because your so-called unnie told you so?” Taeyeon casually talked as her eyes roamed around to look at the accessories.

“Summer sunbaenim told me I’d be better off not wearing any. It doesn’t look good on me.” Jessica dryly chuckled.

“Well, I think your sunbae is blind.” Taeyeon takes a piece of accessory from the table and goes ahead to put it on Jessica’s head. It is a beautifully designed mini crown. “She said you don’t look good. I think you look great with this. My little princess.” Taeyeon said it so naturally that Jessica couldn’t help but blushes madly again. It was then Taeyeon realized how she said those ‘words’ earlier without thinking much and immediately got embarrassed too. There is an awkward yet warm silence between them.

“Jessica! Get ready! Your performance starts in 10!” A staff informed from the door.

“Ah, it’s time.” Jessica said and Taeyeon just tries to act casual by nodding. “You can go ahead with Seulgi.” The singer is about to walk away when she feels a hand reaching hers. She turns around and see a shy Taeyeon looking at her. Since when she ever act like this?

“I’ll walk you there and go back to my seat afterwards.” Taeyeon said. The offer made Jessica smiles. She responds with a nod. The two women exit the waiting room; going through the busy hallway again towards the main stage. Before they can reach there, a familiar woman approaches them. Jessica immediately froze on the spot when she sees Summer smiling at her. Taeyeon could feel the younger girl’s hand becomes cold.

“Well, Jessica, I see you brought someone with you.” Summer looked at Jessica. It may look like she is smiling and simply having a conversation with the younger singer. But, Taeyeon knows those eyes are secretly belittling Jessica.

“Y-yes, sunbaenim.” Jessica anxiously answered. She forgot Taeyeon is standing next to her. She would only call Summer as unnie whenever they are in public. However, she is only allowed to call the much older woman ‘sunbaenim’ when there’s only the two of them or when Seulgi is there too.

Summer faked a chuckle. Annoying, Taeyeon thought. “Now, now, what do we say about calling me sunbaenim? Just call me Summer unnie.” Summer proceeded to pinched Jessica’s cheek. It hurts her skin but she remains quiet the whole time. Summer then noticed how Jessica is wearing the mini crown on her head. “Why are you wearing this? You know this doesn’t make you look good. It’s only a pain in the eyes for the fans when you’re on stage.”

Jessica feels a stinging pain in her chest. She knows what Summer meant. She should have never worn it. She should just take it off now. Yet, for the first time, she hesitates to do so. She remains quiet; it made Summer more annoyed at her little stubbornness. The older woman attempts to just yanks the mini crown from Jessica’s head when another hand stops her from doing so.

“You don’t have the right to touch her without permission.” Taeyeon shot a cold glare at Summer.

She is much, much shorter in comparison to Summer. But, she doesn’t even feel the slightest intimidation. In fact, it made Taeyeon more piss off just seeing how Summer is being such a towards Jessica simply because of her stupid jealousy. Jessica is shock to see how Taeyeon courageously faced against Summer. She didn’t mind being hit again by Summer after this, she is more worried Taeyeon will face the consequences for acting like this.

“You’re a feisty little thing, aren’t you?” Summer tries to overrun Taeyeon’s fearlessness. She knows from the moment she met with the bartender, she is different from the people she have encountered in her life. Summer could pretend as if Taeyeon is being ‘a rude anti’ and let their fans cancel her. But seeing Taeyeon’s attitude, she won’t give a single flying about it.

“Summer, is it? How pathetic are you to be acting this childish over someone who is more talented than you?” Taeyeon said. Jessica’s eyes widen and Summer could no longer ‘act.’ She pulls her hand and stands closer to Taeyeon; grabbing her shoulders harshly. Since the backstage is dim and most of the staffs are busy with their tasks, the people around them didn’t even realize the two women are going against each other.

“Be careful, you midget. You don’t want to poke a wasp-nest and get stung, do you?” Summer talked in such a cold, intimidating tone. Yet, it didn’t fazes Taeyeon, not even a bit.

“I feel sorry for you.” Taeyeon tilted her head with a blank expression. “You’re not special, kiddo.”

“You ty -.” Summer almost raised her hand to slap Taeyeon across the face but stops herself from doing so when a staff approached them. She quickly steps away from Taeyeon and pretends as if nothing had happened.

“Jessica, you’re up on stage in one minute.” The staff spoke. Jessica could finally sigh in relief. What a great timing. If the staff didn’t come to them, it could have been worse. “Summer, please head to the dressing room for an outfit change.”

“Yes, of course.” Summer glanced at Jessica before looking at Taeyeon. She has this expression where she is giving off a warning that says; stay out of this or you’ll regret it. Summer walks away; leaving the two women behind.

“Oh my God, why…why did you do that?” Jessica felt worried. “You could get in trouble for this!”

“I don’t give a . I won’t let that do as she please. I’ll be here to protect you.” Taeyeon holds Jessica’s hand firmly; showing that she meant every word she said. Jessica looks at her; eyes glistening from the tears. She takes a deep breath and smiles at Taeyeon. She cannot recall the last time someone took a stand for her. She felt protected and it was by the person she just met not long ago.

“Jessica!” Another staff called.

“Go, I’ll be watching.” Taeyeon caressed Jessica’s cheek lovingly. The singer closes her eyes, feeling the warmth of her touch. She nods before letting go of her hand. Taeyeon watches as Jessica walks away.

Kim Taeyeon, 33 years old. She lives a life where she has zero interest in dating. She has never been committed in a serious relationship. She believes that the concept of ‘committing’ in a relationship is a hassle. The thought of falling in love with someone; especially first love, has never cross her mind. Not even once.

Taeyeon goes back to her seat. She sees Jessica on-stage; preparing to perform her solo. Their eyes met and they couldn’t help but to exchange smiles. The instrumental starts playing in the background. Jessica starts to sing. Taeyeon watches her.

It was until she met Jessica Jung. She is far from Taeyeon’s type of woman. She is younger, she is full of energy and she acts like a ‘child’ sometimes. Yet, Taeyeon found herself comfortably attached to Jessica. She questioned herself too. How can that young woman makes her feel that way?

You’re a hero you can fly,

You can fly whoa whoa whoa,

You’re a hero you can fly,

Whoa whoa whoa you can fly,

Jessica continues to sing and dance on-stage. The fans are cheering loud as they wave their light-sticks up in the air. However, Taeyeon didn’t even hear those cheers at the back. Her eyes completely focuses on Jessica.

Being in love for the first time with a mere stranger, it’s such an unfamiliar thing for Kim Taeyeon. But, maybe for once, she doesn’t hate this unfamiliarity. She wanted to embraces it.

The solo performance ends with Jessica doing an ending pose together with the backup dancers. She smiles brightly as she looks at Taeyeon who is clapping and cheering as well.

Jessica Jung, what kind of spell did you put on me?

To be continued.

Hello, this is Reowesome. I know this ff has shorter updates (since I usually write up to 30 pages per chapter lol). But, yes, I wanted to write in a simpler style. Anyways, thanks for the new subs and votes. Thank you for the comments too. I appreciate it, as always. Hope you guys enjoy it!