“Promoting their new single is SHINee!” the host cheered.

  The camera focused on the boys, who bowed, smiled boyishly and waved. “Hello, we’re shining SHINee!” A loud cheer erupted from the audience. The boys then introduced themselves one by one in Japanese.

  Just as promised, Onew and Jonghyun answered all of the questions on Sherlock that the host fired. Taemin admired the calm and collected disposition that his two seniors had at that moment, even though he knew they were all trembling inside.

  “I was told that you boys needed to learn more Japanese for your upcoming Japanese concert tour. Is that right?” the host asked.

  Jonghyun’s eyes widened before he shared a panicked look with Onew. They didn’t practice talking about this!

  “Er, yes,” he began nervously. “We thought it would make us… closer with our fans.”

  The host nodded in understanding and gestured at KARA who was sitting on his right. “I think KARA has done well with theirs. What do you all think?” he asked the audience, who cheered accordingly.

  The boys slightly reddened, but to show good support, they applauded for the girls, who giggled and waved their hands in denial.

  “We aren’t perfect yet, and are still learning, like you guys,” Jiyoung commented diplomatically with a grin. “And yes, I think it’s a good idea to learn Japanese. Speaking to your fans from your heart is highly important. That is why my members and I studied the Japanese language very hard – so that we can communicate directly with our fans here.”

  The host and the audience oooh-ed in admiration, while the boys clapped once again, nodding.

  Minho leaned over to Taemin in confusion and whispered, “What did she say?” To his surprise, Taemin had the same look he had when they were in KARA’s dressing room.

  ‘Watching her speak Japanese in person is even more of a turn on,’ Taemin thought, totally oblivious of Minho, whose suspicion was growing. ‘I’d be the happiest person in the world if she would be my personal teacher.’

  “Maybe you girls can help SHINee out with their J