Hybe Labels.

Walking around the unfamiliar big, luxury, grey building nervously. She just finished making a staff id pass at the lobby. Soyeon PD is there too but she got bored waiting for the dance teacher and decided to walk around a little.

 

Still can't believe herself, walking inside the new building owned by Bang PD. Starting this year, Hybe Labels is having an exclusive contract with a few companies including Source Music.

 

That is why Soyeon PD is here with her. But Minha was confused about the news last week. And she's aware of her position as an independent dancer, so it's a bit confusing for her to be in Hybe Labels also with an exclusive contract?

 

As far as she knows, they never signed any papers or contracts as backup dancers. So basically, Soyeon PD is hiding something from her.

 

What Soyeon PD told her last week was that Bang PD himself, personally asked to bring Minha back to Hybe Labels for the new project. But what kind of project?

 

Minha has so many thoughts and she can't sleep at all last night. So, she will find out what kind of contract she will sign to today. She stopped at her steps, getting the phone call from her dance teacher.

 

"Eh? You want me to go by myself? Which floor? Why are you not coming with me? You make me more nervous than I already am." feeling nervous with the sudden calls. She's going to the 5th floor by herself.

 

Stepping into the elevator, Minha took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. The cold, metallic interior of the elevator felt stark and impersonal, a stark contrast to the warm, familiar dance studios she was used to.

 

As the elevator ascended, she could feel her anxiety mounting. She had always been an introvert, preferring the company of her own thoughts to the hustle and bustle of social interactions.

 

But this was different. This was a new environment, a new challenge, and she was stepping into it alone.

 

As the elevator doors opened on the 5th floor, she was met with a flurry of activity. Staff members hurried past her, their faces a blur of concentration and determination. She could feel their energy, their passion, and it was both intimidating and inspiring.

 

She made her way to the office where she was supposed to sign the contract, her heart pounding in her chest. She had no idea what to expect, what this new contract would mean for her career. But she knew one thing for sure - she was ready to face whatever came her way.

 

"Minha-ssi? Here!" Minha gulped hard. Well, they seem nice greeting her with a big smile on their faces. Waving their hands to the nervous girl. Minha bowed in respect to each of them before entering the room.

 

With a final deep breath, she pushed open the door, stepping into the unknown. This was a new chapter in her journey, and she was ready to embrace it.

 

"Annyeonghaseyo Minha-ssi." the familiar voice echoed the room. Minha bowed 90% when she saw the middle aged man.

 

"Annyeonghaseyo Bang PD-nim." she greeted the man politely.

 

"Aigoo, you look exactly the same since the last time we met. Come take a seat." feeling confused, but happy to see Bang PD again, Minha took the empty seat in front of him accompanied by two other people. Probably his staff.

 

"Okay let me explain everything to you before you get more confused than you already are now." Bang PD went straight to the main reason why Minha was invited for a meeting. He's explaining the exclusive contract before Minha gets to sign it.


 

A few moments later.

Two other staff already left after the meeting ended. Bang PD and Minha are staying for a little chit chat. "So, what do you think about the contract? Is everything good for you? Have you read it? We still have time to make amends if you disagree about something. " Minha smiles.

 

Believe it or not, the man in front of her is offering 7 years of contract as a girl group member for the upcoming project. So this is what Soyeon PD talked about last week. Now it makes sense.

 

"I know you're confused. But Minha, I always remember you, because you're one of us. In your 10 years of career, there was blood, sweat and tears. I know your struggles from a young age. Though, I'm still kinda sad when you left us to be an independent dancer. I'm in this position, offering you this exclusive contract because I want you to have an even bigger dream. We always talked about your dreams before right? To be on stage, to perform on big stages..." Bang PD is opening a new path for the girl, he cares for her like his own family.

 

He literally saw her growing up from a high school kid to a real adult. "I also know that you're letting those kids use your practice room. Nope, I didn't stalk you but Director Park kinda updated me about you from time to time. And...I also know that you already have a lot of income as a backup dancer, but if you accept my offer...I can upgrade your practice room, so that more people can come." it makes Minha laugh at the last sentence.

 

"I'm sorry but, are you bribing me PD-nim?" he let out a fatherly laugh at the question.

 

"This is a long term contract...I know you're not used to this, but I can see you doing better in a few years. The practice room isn't just a place to dance, but it's like home to you. You let those kids come, because all of them remind you of yourself." Minha remembers those young girlies at her place.

 

Those kids have big dreams. Their blood on the wooden floor, falling after making the wrong moves. The mirror fogs because of their sweats, and tears after a lot of struggles. She knows exactly how that feels.

 

Minha's heart swelled as she listened to Bang PD's words. His offer was more than just a contract, it was a chance to fulfill her dreams, to step into the spotlight and share her passion for dance with the world.

 

It was a chance to inspire and mentor the next generation of dancers, just as she had been inspired and mentored by those who came before her.

 

The thought of her practice room being upgraded brought a smile to her face. That room was more than just a place to dance, it was a sanctuary, a place where she could express herself freely and without judgment.

 

It was a place where she could share her love for dance with others, and help them discover their own passion.

 

She thought about the young girls who came to her practice room, their faces full of determination and dreams. She saw herself in them, remembered her own journey, her own struggles.

 

She knew the blood, sweat, and tears that went into each dance, each performance. And she wanted to be there for them, to guide them, to support them, just as Soyeon PD and Bang PD had been there for her.

 

"Your hard work is finally getting paid. I saw you struggling from a young age Minha. Your passion, your courage...everything. And I don't want you to waste all the training we gave you back then. All the lessons you took, everything is coming back for you now. The project will start as soon as you agree with the contract. You took a break after the injuries right? It's time to decide." Bang PD fixes his glasses with a smile on his face.

 

Minha is actually happy with the offer, and she knows she will have a bright future with Hybe Labels because she worked with them before. But there's one thing that makes her contemplate the contract.

 

"But PD-nim, how can I debut with this age? A 7 year contract is okay, but I'm 35 on our disbandment day. I don't think people-" she can't finish her sentence when Bang PD suddenly bursts out laughing.

 

"PD-nim~ I'm serious here. I mean, if you offer me this contract before I leave BigHit, I'd gladly accept this and that 7 years are already over by this time. Now I'm getting older. I suddenly feel less confident than I already am." pouted at the thought of debuting with this age, she feels miserable actually.

 

This offer is golden, to be the first girl group under Hybe Labels is amazing but with this age? She can't imagine.

 

Bang PD finally stopped laughing, he wiped the tears away with this finger. "Have you seen yourself before you asked me that? Minha. People love you. How do I explain this? Have you looked at your surroundings? Your ads are everywhere. You got millions views on your fancam as a backup dancer. You have your own fans. You don't know about it? Your ads at the big building? Where do people usually put brand ads over there? People pay a lot of money for ads. As a kpop fan, you should know that better~ You're too humble to notice that." he shook his head at the confused young girl.

 

"Still~ I'm old." she rested her chin on her palm, looking out at the window still pouting.

 

"Okay...let's try this. You don't have to sign the contract yet, but instead, create an Instagram account. I know you don't have it. Later you go home, do it. If you get 1 million followers in 3 days, come back here and sign the contract." her eyebrows raise at the man.

 

"What if I don't get 1 million followers?" Bang PD smirked. "Don't underestimate your fans..."

 

Reaching 1 million followers on Instagram could have a significant impact on Minha's decision about signing the contract with Hybe Labels. It would be a clear indication of her popularity and the support she has from fans around the world.

 

Seeing such a large number of people actively interested in her work and her journey could give Minha the confidence and reassurance she needs to take on this new challenge.

 

It would show her that despite her concerns about her age, there are many people who appreciate her talent and are excited to see her perform.

 

Moreover, it could also serve as a reminder of the impact she can have as a performer. With a platform like Instagram, she would have the opportunity to reach a wide audience, share her passion for dance, and inspire others with her journey.

 

However, it's also important to remember that while reaching 1 million followers could be a positive sign, the decision to sign the contract should ultimately be based on what Minha feels is best for her career and her personal growth. After all, numbers can be encouraging, but they don't define one's worth or success.

 

As Bang PD explained the contract, Minha felt a mix of emotions. Excitement bubbled up inside her at the thought of finally achieving her dream of performing on big stages.

 

But there was also a knot of anxiety in her stomach. She was stepping into uncharted territory, and the uncertainty was daunting. When Bang PD suggested she start an Instagram account, Minha felt a jolt of surprise.

 

She had always been private, preferring to let her dancing speak for itself. The idea of putting herself out there, of inviting the world to scrutinize her every move, was intimidating.

 

But at the same time, she couldn't deny the thrill of anticipation that coursed through her. This was a chance to connect with her fans, to share her passion for dance with a wider audience.

 

As she left the meeting, Minha felt a strange sense of exhilaration. She was on the brink of a new chapter in her life, and despite her fears and doubts, she couldn't wait to see what the future held.

 

His last words kept ringing on Minha's ears for the whole day. Because of Bang PD, Minha starts to look around if there's anyone who recognizes her in public. Okay no one, because she's wearing a mask but maybe she can find any ads around the place. And....there. She sees not 1 or 2, but 5 ads on the opposite roads. People- fans are showing support for her birthday a few weeks ago.

 

She often saw birthday ads for kpop idols, but never expected herself to be part of it today. She knows people do voting for ads on social media, she is just not aware of the amount of money people spend to make it happen.

 

Again, Bang PD's words ring in her ears. Reminds her about making an Instagram account. Sighed, "I should go home first..." she means her parents home.


 

Kim's House.

Nothing feels right at home. Yes, still awkward and weird to be home even at this age. Her mother smiles, welcoming her at the front door. She smiles back, hugging the old woman.

 

"You're usually visited on weekends. Bad days?" her mom asked. Visit? Yes, because Minha stayed in her apartment in the city. The day she left BigHit was the same day she moved out from her parents'house.

 

Her father, Heejun never talked to her since that day. Minha and Heejun, had a big fight the night she moved out.

 

She rubs the left cheek, still remembering the bruise she got after the hard slap. Sting, but she felt hurt emotionally. 3 years have passed, she hasn't moved on from that yet.

 

And she also, refused to speak about it and pretend her father never existed. Yeah, to that point because of feeling disappointed and sad because of the behavior of his father who never tried to understand a child.

 

Minha's strained relationship with her father, Heejun, has likely had a profound impact on her emotionally. The disagreement they had when she decided to leave BigHit and the physical altercation that followed have left deep emotional scars.

 

Feeling misunderstood and rejected by a parent can lead to feelings of self-doubt and insecurity. Minha might question her worth and her decisions, especially those related to her career.

 

This could be part of the reason why she's hesitant about signing the contract with Hybe Labels, despite it being a golden opportunity.

 

The lack of communication between Minha and Heejun since their fight might also contribute to her feeling isolated and unsupported. She might feel like she's navigating her career and making big decisions on her own, without the guidance of her father.

 

However, it's also important to note that these experiences have likely made Minha stronger and more resilient. She's had to navigate difficult situations and make tough decisions on her own, which has probably helped her grow as an individual and as a professional.

 

Despite the pain and the challenges, Minha has continued to pursue her passion for dance and has achieved remarkable success. This speaks volumes about her strength and determination.

 

Of course, she texted her sister before she came home. She needs to know if Heejun is home or not, or she never wants to go home at all. She wants to update her sister and ask her opinion about the contract.

 

"What kind of bad days are worse than my injured leg mom? Though I finally got rid of the cast yesterday, I still can't dance." they walk inside the house together, as her mother is approaching the kitchen.

 

"You stay for the night?  Let me heat up your dinner." she's actually full, from eating a proper meal in Hybe Labels earlier today. But, she can't deny how much she missed the home cook.

 

"Yes mom, sure. I'm going upstairs to see Minhee first. Thank you." she then walked upstairs to Minhee's room, to see her younger sister in bed on her stomach playing with phone.

 

"Hey sis~" the siblings grinned at each other as Minha sat on bed, leaning on the thick pillow.

 

"Tell me everything!" Minhee's voice was a bit louder than usual, but Minha used it now. Her sister is excited after she told her about the contract with Hybe Labels.


 

*after the explanation from A-Z*

"This kind of chance- I mean golden chance is coming once in a lifetime. You gotta decide fast before he gives it to someone else sis!" Minha is still thinking about the contract. She's tapping on her own chin, after she made the Instagram account.

 

"It's not an easy decision to make. I'm turning 30 in a few years! And I don't know who is in my team. What if all of them are younger than me? 7/8 years younger? Even younger than you? People will talk- "

 

"You're just worried about people. Too worried. I know living as a kpop idol is harder than what we can imagine. And worse, we lost the freedom and privacy with family and friends. But your kind of worry is about something that hasn't happened yet. You always told me to not do that when I further my studies. Seeing you doing the same thing is unacceptable unnie. Listen, if this chance is a new path for your career, go for it. You can perform on bigger stages. That's what you want right? And you had those lessons for idols back in BigHit. You have been trained to be an idol since high school. I see no issue other than your big concern about your age. Trust Bang PD, he knows a lot about you. More than us..." Minhee is so good at talking, that makes the older sister smile.

 

As Minha listened to her sister's words, a wave of relief washed over her. Minhee's unwavering faith in her was like a beacon in the storm of her doubts. She felt a warmth spread through her chest, a sense of comfort and reassurance that she hadn't realized she'd been missing. But along with the relief, there was also a twinge of anxiety.

 

The weight of the decision she had to make was still heavy on her shoulders. She was stepping into the unknown, and the uncertainty was daunting. She felt a knot in her stomach, a mix of fear and excitement that made her heart race.

 

Minha's concerns about joining as a K-pop idol are quite understandable and multifaceted. She is worried about her age, especially in an industry that often prioritizes youth. She's concerned about how she'll be perceived if she debuts in a group with members significantly younger than her.

 

As a K-pop idol, Minha would be in the public eye constantly. This could lead to a loss of privacy and increased scrutiny, which can be daunting.
She is unsure about who her team members will be and how their dynamics will work out, especially if there's a significant .

 

The life of a K-pop idol is filled with high expectations and pressure, both from the industry and the fans. This can be overwhelming and stressful.

 

Minha might have to give up certain freedoms, like being able to go out without being recognized or having a normal social life.

 

Given her age, Minha might be concerned about the longevity of her career as a K-pop idol. She might worry about what will happen once the contract ends.

 

These concerns are valid and show that Minha is carefully considering all aspects of this decision. It's a big step, and it's important that she feels comfortable and confident in her choice.

 

Yet, as she looked at her sister's confident smile, Minha felt a spark of hope. She was reminded of why she loved dancing in the first place, of the joy and fulfillment it brought her. She realized that she didn't want to let her fears hold her back from pursuing her dreams.

 

With a deep breath, she made up her mind. She would face her fears, embrace the uncertainty, and take the leap of faith. She would sign the contract and embark on this new journey. And no matter what happened, she knew she could count on her sister's support.