Deep breaths, Jeon Heejin. Deep breaths.

 

“We have 20 minutes before the video call event starts at the Geureum Café. After that we’re going straight to the broadcast station for your radio show guesting at 6pm and then head to Studio B for your next comeback stage performance.”

 

“Okay.” Heejin mumbles, sleep still evident in her eyes.

 

This was just a typical comeback season for Heejin – the TV and radio show guestings, fansign events, comeback stages and more. She mindlessly stares outside her van, rubbing her eyes while her manager continues to list down all her upcoming schedules for the week.

 

She wasn’t complaining though. All of this was something she worked hard for, for almost 5 years. Back then, she had to audition countless times before she even got signed to a company, or to get a role or a spot in a CF and now, everything is basically offered to her on a silver platter.

She has indeed become South Korea’s Sweetheart, and she will always be grateful for that.

 

However, there are days like this where she feels low and out of it. It was only the second week of her comeback season and she’s already feeling sluggish. She yawns for the nth time, eyes still trained outside.

“Don’t forget, you have a doctor’s appointment tomorrow at 8am before we head to that cooking show guesting of yours and- Heejin, are you even listening?” The slight rise in her tone snaps Heejin from her momentary stupor and flashes an apologetic smile towards her manager who has now put down her iPad on her lap.

“I’m sorry Jinsoul unnie, I’m just really exhausted today.” She tries her best to muster a sheepish grin, feeling sorry for the woman in front of her. Jinsoul, who has been her manager since her debut, has always worked hard alongside her and kept her schedules and all other matters in order.

 

Jinsoul heaves a deep sigh, letting her shoulders drop and her back finally resting on the soft cushioned leather of the van. It has been a hectic week for their team, especially for Heejin. She has barely gotten any sleep and has been traveling from schedule to schedule.

 

“It’s okay, Heekie. Only three more weeks of promotions and then you get to go on that two-month break Ms. Ha promised you.” Jinsoul reassuringly says. “And I, on the other hand, get to finally go to Jeju with my girlfriend after so many cancellations.”

 

Heejin chuckles at this. It took them a while to be able to get her to have an actual break all these years. Sooyoung, their CEO, has always been kind and generous towards her. But she was also focused on making Heejin a top star, and so they all had to work tirelessly to get to where she is right now.

And that’s more than she can ask for.

 

“Yeah, we ought to be separated for a bit somehow, unnie. How else would I know you’ll miss me if I wasn’t around?” Heejin teases. Jinsoul has always been a serial worrier, especially when it comes to her. 

 

But they make a good team – her amazing all-around talents and impeccable work ethic, along with Jinsoul’s keen attention to detail and great managing skills – they were unstoppable. After all, she wouldn’t be the top star that she is now if they weren’t.

 

♠ ♠ ♠ ♠ ♠

 

“And that was our number one, most requested song for since its release last month; the title track from her 5th anniversary album of the same name – ladies and gentledudes, that was ‘Paint the Town’ by Nation’s Sweetheart, the amazing, the one and only Jeon Heejin!” The studio fills in with the sound effects of clapping as the DJ himself claps enthusiastically, the song fading into the background.

 

Heejin couldn’t help but smile, her heart swelling with pride from the beautiful words for praise.

“Thank you so much, Key Oppa and thank you for inviting me here today.” She utters sweetly into the microphone in front of her.

 

This was her last radio show guesting for the entire promotion period of her album, so Heejin wants to give her best energy as she closes up her activities with her last two events.

 

“First, I wanted to congratulate you for your fourth consecutive win on our charts, and for sweeping up awards at all the music shows you’ve been in! And so with that we have a little surprise for you from us and from your beloved Tokkis” DJ Key suddenly stands up from his chair and starts to sing a congratulatory song and wheels out a 3-tier bunny-themed cake, with a ‘Congratulations, Jeon Heejin’ scribbled in bright pink icing.

 

Her heart swells with affection and gratefulness, her eyes b with tears as she hears the voices of her fans from outside the studio, cheering and yelling their congratulations.

 

She closes her eyes for a brief moment, her wishes uttered in her mind before blowing on the lit candles atop her congratulatory cake as if it was a birthday cake - well, it might as well be one since it feels like one.

 

“And don’t forget, Heejin will be having a surprise event on her last week of promotions. What the event will be, well, it’s a SURPRISE!” Key closes the show with the announcement.

 

After the usual photo-taking sessions and short interview with the DJ, Heejin finally boards their company van to head to her final schedule and is looking forward to her last activity before her long-awaited break.

 

Heejin leaned back against the cushioned seat, her eyes half-lidded from exhaustion. Jinsoul, her manager and confidante, flashed a reassuring smile.

 

"Just a bit more, Heejin. You're almost there," Jinsoul encouraged, her voice a gentle lullaby amidst the urban symphony.

 

Heejin managed a tired smile, nodding. "Yeah, just a bit more." She could almost taste the upcoming 2-month hiatus, a sweet promise of rest and recuperation.

 

♠ ♠ ♠ ♠ ♠

 

As Heejin's last week of promotions dawned, the anticipation for the surprise event reached a fever pitch. Excitement hummed in the air like an electrifying charge, and a growing crowd had gathered in anticipation of Heejin's surprise event. There was an unmistakable buzz of excitement, a palpable energy that drew fans from all corners of the city to the designated venue.

 

As the minutes ticked away, fans chatted animatedly, their voices filled with a sense of camaraderie. They wore t-shirts and carried banners adorned with Heejin's name and her latest single's lyrics. Some even had cardboard cutouts of their beloved idol, clutching them tightly like talismans.

 

The fans' chatter ranged from eager speculations about what the surprise event would entail to fond reminiscences of their favorite Heejin moments. They shared stories of their journeys to become part of Heejin's fandom, Tokkis, a testament to the close-knit community that had formed around the artist.

 

Their enthusiasm was infectious, and the crowd swayed like a living entity. Every once in a while, a ripple of cheers and applause passed through the gathering, carried away by the excitement that coursed through the crowd. The anticipation was akin to waiting for a grand spectacle to begin, and the fans couldn't contain their excitement.

 

As the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting an enchanting golden hue over the event venue, Heejin's sleek black car pulled up at the entrance. The crowd of excited fans erupted in cheers as she stepped out, radiating star power. Heejin beamed as she made her way to the stage, waving at her fans and sending them heartfelt air kisses. The crowd's energy was infectious, and she couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement herself.

 

Once she reached the stage, Heejin stood before the sea of her adoring fans, and the cheers only grew louder. She brought her hand to her heart and mouthed the words "I love you" to them, causing an eruption of euphoria.

 

"Thank you, thank you!" Heejin called out, her voice filled with genuine warmth. "I can't express how much your love and support mean to me. It's been an incredible journey, and I couldn't have done it without each and every one of you."

 

She paused for a moment, letting her gratitude wash over the crowd. "So, are you ready for a little surprise?" Heejin asked, and the crowd's response was deafening.

 

The stagehands wheeled a massive glass tank onto the stage, its transparency reflecting the warm hues of the setting sun. A slot on the side of the tank caught the fans' attention, and Heejin, with a playful twinkle in her eyes, addressed them once more.

 

"This is the surprise, Tokkis," Heejin declared with a sly grin. "We're going to make this moment unforgettable for one of you lucky fans."

 

She held up a piece of paper, waving it in the air. "I want all of you to write down your phone numbers on this paper, and don't worry, we'll keep it secure. Then, we'll place all the papers inside this glass tank." The anticipation in the crowd was palpable as they leaned in, eager to participate.

 

"Here's the best part," Heejin continued, her smile lighting up the stage. "One of you will have the chance for a videocall and a dinner date with me!" The crowd roared with excitement, their cheers filling the venue.

 

Heejin's laughter rang out, pure and joyful, as she reveled in the infectious energy of her fans. "I can't wait to meet the lucky winner! Let's make this night unforgettable, Tokkis!" The fans eagerly accepted the challenge, their hearts b with excitement for the incredible opportunity ahead.

 

Meanwhile, not far from the commotion, a certain young baker bustled about in her quaint bakery, surrounded by the warm scent of freshly baked bread. With flour-dusted hands and an apron wrapped around her, Kim Jiwoo moved gracefully around the bakery, her deft hands expertly kneading a batch of dough while humming a soft, melodic tune. Her small but cozy bakery was a labor of love, known for its mouthwatering pastries, aromatic coffees, and tranquil ambiance.

 

Jiwoo, with her apron adorned with a bright sun emblem, had always been the embodiment of sunshine to her friends, family, and even her customers. Her cheerful disposition was infectious, and she had an uncanny ability to brighten anyone's day with her smiles and laughter.

 

As she worked on the delicate pastries, she couldn't help but notice the distant commotion coming from outside. A curious furrow of her brow was paired with a whimsical smile, a mix of curiosity and hope. The tinkling bells above her bakery's entrance had been particularly active lately, thanks to the nearby event.

 

"I wonder what's going on out there," Jiwoo mused aloud to herself, her curiosity piqued. She wiped her flour-dusted hands on her apron, a fine white powder dusting her already sun-kissed skin. The heady scent of freshly baked goods enveloped her, wrapping her in a comforting cocoon of warmth.

 

Leaving the dough to rest, Jiwoo stepped outside and tilted her head, trying to catch a glimpse of the gathering crowd nearby. Her soft laugh escaped her lips as she couldn't make out the details from her vantage point, and she imagined the commotion was due to some local festival or celebration.

 

"I hope it's something exciting," she said, a glimmer of optimism dancing in her eyes. Jiwoo knew that any event nearby had the potential to bring new faces to her beloved bakery, and she couldn't help but feel a surge of hope. She brushed a strand of her wavy, sunflower-yellow hair behind her ear and returned to her dough, fingers working with practiced ease.

 

♠ ♠ ♠ ♠ ♠

 

It’s the day following the surprise event. Inside the stylish penthouse apartment, Jinsoul had set up the live-streaming equipment. The star herself was seated at the center of the room, the radiant sun streaming through the large windows behind her, enhancing her aura of warmth and charm.

 

The event had been a thrilling success, with Heejin excitedly sharing moments of her life with her loyal fans, the Tokkis. She couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by the immense love and support she received from them.

 

"Heejin, are you ready for the draw?" Jinsoul inquired, adjusting the camera angle to ensure that Heejin would be perfectly framed. The artist's heart raced with anticipation, even as she flashed a dazzling smile for the camera.

 

"I'm ready, Soul. Let's make this special for one of our Tokkis," Heejin replied, her eyes shimmering with enthusiasm. She leaned over to the ornate glass bowl placed on the table in front of her. Inside, dozens of folded pieces of paper that were narrowed down by her team (you would not believe the sheer mountain of entries they had to go through) bearing various phone numbers swirled like confetti.

 

The bowl filled with slips of paper was placed before her, each one a potential connection to a fan. Heejin's fingers danced over the entries, and she plucked one with a handwriting that could only be described as a puzzle. The numbers danced in a wavy script, a merry jumble of ink on paper. She glanced at it briefly, momentarily puzzled. 

 

Jinsoul, ever the astute manager, stepped in. With an amused twinkle in her eye, she leaned closer to the camera. "Don't worry, Heejin-ssi. I've got this. Let's see..." Her gaze flicked over the numbers, deciphering the seemingly chaotic scrawl with ease.

 

With a smooth motion, Jinsoul punched the number into the phone. It rang, the anticipation building in the air. As the line connected, she swiftly handed the phone over to Heejin.

 

Heejin took a steadying breath, her heart pounding in her chest. When the call connected and the screen came to life, her breath hitched. There, in the glow of her screen, stood a face that sent a rush of memories cascading through her.

 

"Hello?" The voice on the other end was bright and cheery, an unfamiliar warmth washing over Heejin. She blinked, suddenly transported back to high school, her heart pounding with a mixture of disbelief and delight.

 

"Hello there!" Heejin exclaimed, her voice lively and filled with warmth. She couldn't help the twinkle in her eyes. It was a blend of thrill and nostalgia. Jiwoo was an old high school crush, someone Heejin hadn't seen or spoken to in years. In that moment, she felt as if time had come full circle, and it brought a wave of emotions. Yet, for the sake of her fans watching the livestream, she kept her composure, playing it cool, just as she always did.

 

Heejin couldn't help but feel like she'd stepped into a dream, a delightful and surreal one where the world beyond her phone screen faded into a distant, muted background.  

 

♠ ♠ ♠ ♠ ♠

 

In the cozy confines of her quaint bakery, Kim Jiwoo stood behind the counter, her apron dusted with a smattering of flour. Her attention was captured by the chatter of people outside, where the aftermath of Heejin's surprise event continued to echo through the neighborhood. She couldn't help but wonder what had caused such excitement.

 

As she went about her work, her phone chimed with an incoming call. She wiped her hands on her apron, glanced at the screen, and answered, unaware that her world was about to change in an unexpected way.

 

"Hello?" Jiwoo's cheerful voice greeted the caller, though her brow quirked in curiosity. She didn't recognize the number but didn't mind chatting with new acquaintances.

 

Heejin, on the other end of the line, couldn't suppress the excitement bubbling within her. "Hello there!" Her voice conveyed the warmth of her smile, even as she marveled at the serendipity that had brought her here.

 

Jiwoo just smiles and blinks, seemingly waiting for Heejin to say something more, the latter caught off guard.

 

“This is Jeon Heejin! It’s nice to meet you.” Heejin continues to smile through the bout of confusion.

 

Jiwoo's eyes sparkled with friendliness as she responded, "Nice to meet you, Jeon Heejin! How can I help you today?" She remained oblivious to Heejin's fame and the fact that she'd just won a unique event.

 

Heejin decided to play along, enjoying the opportunity to reconnect with her highschool crush. "I'm doing a project where I get to know new people, and I've heard so much about you! Tell me, what's your favorite thing about life?"

 

Jiwoo's cheerful spirit radiated through the call as she replied, "Oh, there are so many things! I love the simplicity of things like good food, time with friends, and watching my plants grow. But most of all, I love the sunshine. It makes me feel so happy!"

 

As Heejin continued to chat with Jiwoo, she couldn't help but notice the cozy surroundings behind her. The warm, inviting atmosphere, shelves filled with tempting pastries, and the sweet scent of freshly baked goods wafting through the air were unmistakable signs that Jiwoo was in a bakery.

 

Heejin's curiosity piqued, and she leaned in closer to her phone screen, an intrigued smile playing on her lips. "Are you in a bakery right now?" she asked, her eyes lighting up with interest.

 

Jiwoo's eyes sparkled as she nodded. "Yes, I'm actually at my own bakery," she replied, her voice carrying a hint of pride. "It's a small place, but I love it. Baking brings me so much joy, and I get to share that joy with my customers."

 

Heejin's smile grew wider. "That sounds amazing! What kind of bakery is it? Do you have a specialty?"

 

Jiwoo's enthusiasm was contagious as she described her bakery, its charming details, and the wide range of treats she created. She explained that her specialties included delectable cakes, mouthwatering pastries, and a variety of bread. Heejin couldn't help but imagine the delicious aromas and flavors that filled Jiwoo's bakery, and it made her even more intrigued.

 

"Wow, it sounds like a little piece of heaven," Heejin commented, genuinely impressed. "I can't help but admire your passion for baking. It must be incredibly rewarding to see people enjoy what you create."

 

Jiwoo's response was filled with warmth and sincerity. "It truly is, Heejin. Seeing someone's face light up when they take a bite of something I've made is one of the best feelings in the world. It's like spreading a little bit of happiness through food."

 

Heejin found herself drawn to Jiwoo's outlook on life, her simple pleasures, and her genuine appreciation for the small joys in everyday experiences. It was a stark contrast to Heejin's life in the spotlight, where everything was larger than life and often overwhelming.

 

Their conversation flowed naturally, bridging the gap between the world of a famous popstar and the world of a baker. 

 

Meanwhile, Jinsoul, understanding the unique situation, took over the livestream with a smooth transition. She continued the broadcast, covering for Heejin as she focused on her delightful conversation with Jiwoo, who still believed this was just a random phone call.

 

Heejin's heart danced with the connection she was forging with Jiwoo, a beautiful moment of serendipity in the midst of her busy life. Little did either of them know that this conversation was the beginning of something special, a friendship destined to flourish.

 

♠ ♠ ♠ ♠ ♠

 

The day of the dinner date arrived, and Heejin couldn't help but feel a mixture of excitement and nervousness. She had been looking forward to this evening all week, ever since she had randomly called Jiwoo and invited her out. The memory of their conversation played in her mind like a cherished film reel.

 

As Heejin got ready for the evening, she couldn't help but smile at the thought of Jiwoo's cheerful voice accepting her invitation. It had been so easy, so natural, as if they were old friends catching up after years apart. The memory of Jiwoo's laughter and her enthusiastic agreement to meet up for dinner warmed Heejin's heart.

 

She chose an outfit that was stylish yet comfortable, wanting to make a good impression while also ensuring that Jiwoo would feel at ease. Her mind wandered back to their conversation about Jiwoo's bakery, and Heejin decided to bring a small gift to express her appreciation for the warm welcome she had received.

 

As she arrived at the quaint bakery, the familiar scent of freshly baked goods enveloped her, and she couldn't help but feel a sense of comfort wash over her. The door chimed as she entered, and Jiwoo looked up from behind the counter, a bright smile lighting up her face.

 

"Heejin, you made it!" Jiwoo exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with genuine delight. "Welcome to my little slice of happiness."

 

Heejin returned Jiwoo's smile, feeling a wave of gratitude for this unexpected connection. "Thank you for having me. Your bakery is even more charming in person."

 

They chatted comfortably, as if they had known each other for much longer than just a week. The conversation flowed effortlessly, their laughter filling the air. Heejin felt a sense of kinship with Jiwoo, a feeling that went beyond the surface.

 

As the evening drew to a close, Heejin mustered up the courage to extend the evening. "Would you like to grab a bite to eat? There's this little restaurant nearby that I've been wanting to try."

 

Jiwoo's eyes sparkled with excitement. "That sounds wonderful, Heejin. I'd love to."

 

As Jiwoo and Heejin arrived at the restaurant for their dinner date, Jiwoo couldn't help but notice the subtle glances and curious looks from the people around them as they entered. She found it amusing, a hint of a playful smile tugging at the corners of her lips. To her, it was a bit like stepping into a movie scene, where the spotlight seemed to follow Heejin, making everything else fade into the background.

 

As they settled into their seats, Jiwoo couldn't resist a gentle tease. "You really do turn heads, don't you?" she said with a playful glint in her eyes. "I'm starting to think I won the lottery with this dinner date."

 

Technically you did, Heejin thinks.

 

Jiwoo found it somewhat amusing and endearing. She knew she was having dinner with a pretty girl, and it was only natural that others might find Heejin's beauty captivating. Jiwoo chuckled softly to herself, not wanting to make Heejin uncomfortable.

 

However, when Jiwoo's laughter reached Heejin's ears, she felt her cheeks flush with embarrassment. She had always been in the public eye, used to the attention and the stares from fans and strangers alike. But tonight was different. It was personal and intimate.

 

Heejin found herself fidgeting with her silverware, a mixture of shyness and warmth bubbling inside her. She glanced at Jiwoo, who was still chuckling, and found herself smiling too. There was something so genuine and heartwarming about Jiwoo's laughter that it put Heejin at ease.

 

Jiwoo's laughter filled the air, and she reached out to give Heejin's hand a reassuring squeeze. "I'm just telling the truth," she said, her eyes sparkling with mirth. "But really, I think it's your kindness that shines the brightest."

 

Heejin felt her heart skip a beat at Jiwoo's sincere words. It was a compliment that touched her deeply, and she couldn't help but return Jiwoo's smile with one of her own. In that moment, any self-consciousness she may have felt about the attention seemed to melt away. Instead, she felt a sense of ease and comfort in Jiwoo's presence.

 

"You're not so bad yourself," Heejin replied, her smile brightening the dimly lit restaurant. The two shared a moment of unspoken understanding, the chemistry between them growing stronger with each passing second.

 

Over the cozy candlelit dinner, Heejin and Jiwoo continued to talk and share stories, deepening their connection with each passing moment. The restaurant buzzed with soft conversations and the clinking of silverware, creating the perfect ambiance for their dinner date.

 

Heejin couldn't help but be drawn into Jiwoo's world as she talked about her life, her family, and her bakery. She admired Jiwoo's passion and dedication to her craft, finding it both inspiring and endearing. The pop star listened intently as Jiwoo described the joy she found in baking and the simple pleasures of life.

 

Jiwoo's warmth and sincerity were infectious, and it made Heejin feel comfortable opening up about her own life as well. She spoke of her family, her dreams, and the ups and downs she'd encountered on her journey. She told Jiwoo about her tight-knit group of friends who had been with her through thick and thini.

 

Heejin's stories were personal and heartfelt, but she carefully danced around the fact that she was a famous popstar. Instead, she spoke in more general terms, allowing Jiwoo to glimpse into her world without fully realizing who she was. She described her love for music, the joy she found in performing, and the occasional challenges that came with her career.

 

Jiwoo listened intently, her eyes reflecting empathy and understanding as Heejin spoke. It was clear that she was a good listener, someone who valued genuine connections and meaningful conversations. And as Heejin shared her stories, she felt a sense of trust and camaraderie with Jiwoo.

 

Heejin was aware that her fame could be overwhelming to some, but with Jiwoo, she found a sense of ease and authenticity. The evening was a beautiful exchange of stories, dreams, and laughter, and Heejin couldn't help but feel grateful for the genuine connection she'd discovered in Jiwoo.

 

As their conversation continued, Jiwoo mentioned her closest friends, Yeojin and Chaewon. She spoke about how proud she was of them, explaining that Yeojin had become a TV producer, and Chaewon had followed her passion to become a talented chef. Heejin couldn't help but smile, genuinely happy for Jiwoo's friends. It was clear that their bonds ran deep, and Jiwoo's eyes shone with affection when she talked about them.

 

As Jiwoo described her family, including her younger brother who had just entered university, Heejin made a mental note of all the details. She was touched by the sense of family and the love Jiwoo felt for her brother. It was a reminder of the importance of relationships and connections, something that sometimes got lost in Heejin's busy life.

 

The night had been filled with laughter, stories, and the blossoming of an unexpected friendship. As Heejin drove Jiwoo back to her home, the atmosphere in the car was warm and comfortable. Their connection had deepened throughout the evening, and they both felt a sense of ease with each other.

 

As they pulled up in front of the charming little bakery, Jiwoo turned to Heejin with a bright smile. "Thank you for the wonderful dinner, Heejin. I had such a great time."

 

Heejin returned the smile, her heart feeling light and content. "I did too, Jiwoo. It was truly special." She glanced at the quaint bakery that stood before them. "So you live around here too?”

 

Jiwoo nodded, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "Yes, I actually live on the second floor." She paused for a moment before her face lit up with a realization. "Oh, would you like to come in for a cup of tea? My bakery is closed for the night, and it's a cozy little space."

 

Heejin considered the invitation and couldn't resist the charm in Jiwoo's eyes. "I'd love to."

 

Jiwoo led Heejin upstairs to her cozy liv