My Girlfriend / Lucifer

My Girlfriend / Lucifer

Foreword

“MiSoo, bisai-bisai ah (MiSoo, be careful),” my mother kept repeating. I think she's going to cry judging on how small her eyes gotten since we left home. I immediately hugged her.

“Mama, inda apa-apa (Mom, it's nothing),” I smiled, rubbing her back, “Aku akan jadi lebih hati-hati ok? Aku basar udah (I'll be extra careful okay? I am an adult.)” Well, I'm actually seventeen, well close enough. “Aku sayang mama (I love you, mom).” My last words made her cry. I kissed her cheek again and smiled at my dad. He had that look he had on for weeks. A look of mixture emotion; fright, sadness and proud. Because his eldest daughter has achieve the first step to her dream. But she has to go far from home. As I hugged him, I told him to make mom stop crying. I might cry. After multiple farewells, good lucks and good wishes. I was ready. “Bah, aku jalan (Okay, I'll be going now).” But as I turn my back, every steps seem to be heavier. I could still hear my mom crying softly in the background. I brush up my black hair away from my face. I looked back. My mom was in my dad's arms, still crying, still looking at me with those frighten eyes. I ran back to her. I hugged her once more. And told her that I love them.

. . .

“Kakui (amazing),” Shin looked around the huge Seoul airport. Everything was. . . well, huge. Tokyo's airport was enormous too, but somehow, South Korea is different. It has that different aura to it. Shin was too absorbed, trying to soak it all in. She was still impressed by the building that she was not paying attention to her steps. “Ah, gomennasai,(ah, sorry),” Shin had bumped into someone. A red passport slide across the slippery titled floor, Shin immediately picked it up and turned to retrieve it to person she had bumped a minute ago. “Hora (here),” her soft voice stated, holding out the red little book, when she realized the person did not look Korean or Japanese. She has a tan skin, maybe she's Spanish. But her huge Asian eyes declared other wise.

“Arigatou (Thank you),” the Spanish looking girl thanked in Japanese. Before Shin could say anything back, the girl said again in Japanese, “Gomennasai, nihongo wa zen zen dekimasen (Sorry, my Japanese is not good).” She bowed. “But do you speak English?” Now Shin was blank. The girl turned back, mumbling. But then as if she discovered a treasure, she turned and once again spoke in Japanese, “Hajimeshite, watashi wa Park MiSoo desu, dozoyoro shiku, (Hello, I'm Park MiSoo, nice to meet you,”

“Watashi Kinomoto Shin desu, (I'm Shin),” Shin was grateful have someone who understand Japanese. Her Korean was still rusty. But hearing the girl's name; Park MiSoo. A normal Korean name. But before Shin could debate with herself about the matter, a high male voice called her name out. Both MiSoo and Shin turned to find a hurried man in a suit, almost relief to find them. He has that little device in one of his ear that allowed him to talk to the phone and there were some papers wedged in between his arm and body. He looked like he need a good rest.

“Annyeonghaeseyo (hello),” he bowed. Both Shin and MiSoo bowed accordingly; feeling the foreign awkwardness. “Right,” he consoled a piece of paper that magically appeared out of his black suit. “Which one of you are Chloe Siaw Hyun, Park MiSoo, Kinomoto Shin and . . .” the man paused, blinking at the paper. “Do you know how to read this?” He shoved the paper to the girls when he heard a ringing. “Ah yes? No, I'm still waiting for another two girls. . .” the man smoothly explained. The two girls scanned the paper, Shin hardly understand the Korean writing but she recognized her name.

And MiSoo's clear voice declared, “It's Antoinette Aurore Juliette.” The man spin around, looking confuse, he told the person on the other line to wait. “The last girl's name. She's Antoinette Aurore Juliette. It's a French name.” But before the man could say anything, a scream came out of his ear piece.

“Mian (sorry), I go check the front desk okay?” And he just dash, leaving the two girls looking confuse.

. . .

“What do you mean turn around?” A rather angry girl was arguing with one of the stewards. Her accent was weird. It you just listen for seconds, you conclude it's British. But the longer she spoke, the obvious her accent had a hint of French. But her sense of clothing was fully french though. She had a pattern grey leggings that trail down to her white dancing boots, black bubble skirt and grey blouse. She team it up with a pink beanie and scarf.“I have an appointment the minute I'm off this stupid plane!”

But the steward refuse to listen. “I'm sorry mesdemoiselles, zere is a man on broad, had a heart attack!” he turned away and hurriedly dash off. The girl groaned and cursed in English. She grumpily walked back to her seat and sulk. If only she had something around here to send signals to Korea and let the person know that she's going to be late. She hate to be late. A soft giggle came beside her. She glanced and saw an amuse girl. She looked Asian with her tan skin and pretty single eyelid eyes.

“I know how you feel,” she spoke fluently in English. Her accent was American, New York American to be specific. “I have an appointment the minute I land too. I'm Chloe Siaw Hyun. People in Manhattan call me Chloe but my friends call me Hyun.” She smiled. She had a pretty calm smile. The French girl looked at the manicured hand and took it warmly.

“Antoinette Aurore Juliette. Yes, yes, I'm used to the whole Romeo Juliet thing. But I rather dance my shoes off than waiting for a prince.”

“I agree with you there!” The two girls giggled in excitement, barely aware how late they were going to be.

. . .

“Wait here,” an old grumpy lady groan, kicking open the door while buffering her nails and chewing gum.

“Uh. . . kamsamida. . . (thank you),” a younger girl bowed, making her red curls sway with the movement. The receptionist went away. And the girl did not know why she even bother to say thanks. Not like she was going to appreciate it. But she has to, now that her dreams are coming true. She look around the oval room. It looked like a meeting room full with a huge round table in the middle and chairs surrounding it. She walked around, trying to figure out where to sit. But as soon she sat down on a chair next to the door, it opened and walked in a tall lady in tight mini suit. She stride briskly, professional as she talked to her phone.

“I see, just bring the two here. The plane may take hours to fly over. Okay, see you later.” The lady placed the pile of papers on the table, sat down and sighed. YooIn stood up, wanting to be polite. The lady took off her glasses and rubbed her eyes. “So. . . you must YooIn.”

“De, annyeonghaesayo (Yes, hello),” YooIn bowed. The elder woman asked her to sit nearer. They stayed quiet as the woman read pages after pages. She smiled when she found the right paper. Her tone turned businesses-like.

“Okay, YooIn. I know you have been with us for over five or so years now. . . Your file says it all for your dedication towards the company. And I want to say congratulations.” She smiled. YooIn had a look of disbelieve and confusion. “Congratulations, YooIn. I want to be the first to say that you're finally debuting.”

. . .

Special thank you to Han @ Vanilla Sky. I love the poster and background. Please request from them, you won't regret it @ vs-vanilla-sky.blogspot.com

. . .


Chapter One: Stage Girlfriend

“And now welcoming SHINee!” An older man in a suit shouted to his microphone and all the fan girls in the studio screamed at the top of their lungs. They could not contain their excitement any longer. The camera caught the scene of girls row by row as they were seated or rather jumping up and down excitedly at their idols. As on cue, five young contemporary boys stepped to the hot lighted stage, it looked like a talk show, with one great chair for the host and two other sofas for the guests. “Welcome, welcome,” the elderly host greeted happily. “Welcome to the Eeteuki show~,” he sang in a melodious tone, not surprising as he is in a singing/dancing group called Super Junior. The five boys seated accordingly to their ages, with the two eldest sat on the for two and the rest sat on the sofa for three. “So,” Eeteuk took his placed in the brown soft chair holding a pack of cards in one hand and a mic in another. “We all know that you five have a new hot comeback video!” He said gleefully.

One of them, in the far edge left had a light brown hair that stayed away from his forehead, he spoke politely as a leader he was, "yes, we have made a came back with our new song, Lucifer," with that, the studio erupted with screams of fan girls in recognition. It scared some of the members. Onew flashed his eye smiled shyly and bowed his head.

"Yes, Lucifer is a very strong song with strong lyrics accompanied by strong beats as it is about being trapped," JongHyun, beside Onew explained. He waved cutely at the girls in front of him and that made another eruption.

Key nodded in agreement as he explained further, "even the dance moves which our lovely fans called the handcuffs dance was inspired by the lyrics." The girls continued to encourage him with shouts, claps and obviously screams of delights. Eeteuk whispered something to his earpiece and eying the girls.

"Yes, yes," Eeteuk glanced at his cards and his face lightens at the writings. He faced SHINee confidently. "Now, there are some. . . 'features' in the video," he emphasized, "that was slightly difficult to uncover if just by watching." Maknae TaeMin and MinHo nodded in agreement.

TaeMin turned to the fans and smiled, "we hoped the hidden messages were hard to crack but as expected by MinHo hyung, you all found out sooner," with his every words, he had his angel smiled on. MinHo smiled shyly as his fans sent 'aw' to him. TaeMin really is an angel.

"Now," Eeteuk tried to gather attentions back to him, "we will now reveal the hidden features of Lucifer's music video!" With a wave of his hand, the scene melted and showed SHINee's newest music video.

First showed leader Onew as his soft vocals rang sweetly then a sudden paused, the screen was captured by a red curled hair girl, she was absolutely lovely, as if singing to the song. A tiny box on the right side of the image showed Onew's expression, he could only smile back shyly. JongHyun jokingly punch him to be manly. Next was maknae TaeMin sang his first part, another pause, this time another different girl, she looked as sweet as a child with the same colour of his hair and pale complexion. JongHyun's girl looked younger than he was with her petite figure and face. A rather fierce girl was Key's, she had short dark purple hair that sticks to her small long face. She was obviously a foreigner. Lastly, was MinHo's, she appeared older than he was, a more tomboy girl with short messy hair. Each time the tiny box at the side showed the boy's reaction but they had a somewhat poker face.

Abruptly, the screen changed back to the five boys who had shy smiles or embarrassed ones. "Could you explained to us further?" Eeteuk began with a curious smiles, the camera sweep the fans who nodded eagerly.

Maknae TaeMin blushed and clumsily told, "they're. . . our girlfriends."
. . .

"Idiot!" Key hit TaeMin's head, "what are you doing blushing like that??" He scolded angrily at the maknae who still had a blushing face, some in the studio laughed but others pitied maknae, but most of the fans were still shocked upon the huge news. As Key composed himself, Onew cleared his throat and started to explain.

"They are our 'stage' girlfriends, as SM Entertainment have created a new girl group to debut soon and I mean very soon!" he animatedly smiled and seems far excited at the idea.

"SmE is trying to promote them through as us as they are like a female version of SHINee," MinHo who finally spoke, "but instead of telling people that they are like that or this, the entertainment tries to promote these girls through a reality program with us, as their boyfriends."

“Our Lucifer music video is more or less their teaser music video." JongHyun laughed at the irony and tried to get to the spotlight. "This reality program also be promoting SHINee's acting skills and further divide us to different areas in the entertainment. I mean, we've done singing and dancing. Now we're trying to expand our skills." JongHyun smiled sweetly and some of the viewers sighed in relief as the girls were not exactly SHINee's girlfriend.

Eeteuk, who has been quiet, trying to digest the new information. "How come I never heard of about this?" his curiosity overpowered him, as he is one of SmE's artists. His card clearly stated that he should ask more of their opinion of Lucifer. "I never seen or heard about this new group nor I've seen them train to debut."

"It has been a secret till the music video was released, but it is a nice surprise right?" Key tries to save the situation. “And beside, only one of them trained in SM Entertainment. The rest do not have any training whatsoever,” Eeteuk could only nodded as he looked down at his cards, the atmosphere was suddenly tensed. SHINee looked at each other nervously. Have they made a mistake to suddenly revealed this?

Maknae TaeMin quickly spoke, "should we reveal the members?" he said it cautiously, as if afraid something might explode. Eeteuk looked up in surprise, you could see the eagerness in his eyes and how he seems to jump. He nodded, grateful to have something to talk about. It is a talk show after all. "We start with the oldest!" TaeMin declared happily.

"What? what?!" Onew shot a glare at TaeMin who turned away and smile at fans. Onew cursed under his breath. Now he looked awkward, trying to gather his thoughts, "well. . . I haven't actually met her yet." He twisted his fingers together, JongHyun quickly slapped them, Onew glanced at him annoyingly, "but I heard she has an amazing voice."

"Okay my turn!" JongHyun excitedly stood, not giving a chance for Onew to tell the audience further. "I only met her once and that's from afar, we both were busy, with me making an comeback and with her debuting. And she was jet lagged too. Apparently she refuses to attend school here and want to finish college in the hometown. She's just turned 18 and is pure Korean and she also a lead vocalist like me!" JongHyun rambled on and on about her, when Eeteuk asked for her name, he immediately sat down and said nothing.

"We haven't met them yet due to our schedule but we heard a lot from our staffs and manager hyung," MinHo explained but when he was asked about his girl, he does not really know much. "But she's older than I am and she is also a rapper. I also heard that she's fluent in English and Chinese." Some were impressed with MinHo's girl.

It was Key's turn and he actually met her, well once. "She was tall," was the first thing he said in such a funny expression and that made the studio laughed. "And she was half French and British, so she masted three languages including Korean." a wave of 'aah' float across one end of the studio to the other, Key laughed at the reaction. "Her position is like mine, a rapper and also a singer. Her name is really difficult to say but I always call her Juliette. And her stage name is. . ." he blushed, "its really cheesy but its sweet at the same time. . ." he smiled, "her stage name is Lock, to match with mine." A roar of laughter came beside him, the SHINee members could not help but laugh. "Its sweet if you guys know the reason okay??" Key hit TaeMin to make him stop, "your turn," he said sulkily.

TaeMin coughed from the punch then he fell silence, "I don't know how to say it. . .." he blushed, "I met her weekly at SmE's building and she's very sweet. She's half Japanese so her pale skin was what attracted me to her. Her whole personality is sweet and adorable."

"Try using other vocabulary maknae," Key hit TaeMin again.
"You haven't met her, even you could only describer her as cute and and. . . adorable." TaeMin shuttered.
"Right, right," Key waved carelessly, he was taking out his anger at poor poor maknae.

"Anyway!" Eeteuk grabbed the camera, "that's all for tonight folks! Time is already out. Sorry to end it so soon,” he pouted but he immediately flashed his best smiled, “next week's guests will be debuting in Japan soon and I'm a fan of them! And let's thanks tonight's guests, SHINee!! Good night viewers and this is the end of Eeteuki's Show!”


Chapter Two: Lucifer

A wobbly cameraman got out of an elevator and slightly wobble to the left, finally reaching a grey and two vertical black strips door. He steadied himself before pushing the doorbell and an excited female voice cheerfully responded. "Wait a minute~!" The door unlocked to revealed a very tall girl with short hair that sticks to her foreign face. "Wow!" She exclaimed when she was the camera, other voices from inside the apartment started to squeak, demanding who was it. "Should I lock back the door?" The girl jokingly asked behind her. And actually closed the door. The camera man stayed put, a daze. A few minutes passed and the door opened again, a different girl smiled shyly. She was the red-headed one, claimed to be the leader. She bowed and apologized for the childish behavior.

"Please come it," she smiled sweetly and opened the door widely, the rest of Lucifer members were there, wearing casual every day clothing but somehow they still look famous. The cameraman slowly step into the apartment, slipping out his shoes and to be greeted by a huge picture of Lucifer's very first official picture. It was after they were told that they were debuting as a group. It took hours for Lock and Hyun to come together after their plane was diverted. They were delighted when their female manager told them all about Lucifer.

“Now,” Im SeoIn, their manager said as she placed back her reading glasses. She was older than the girls but most men would glance at her more than twice. “Have you heard of SHINee? The boy group from SM Company too?” All of them nodded, except for Juliette and Hyun. “Well, you better start knowing them because you all are going to be the female version of SHINee. Under the name of Lucifer. Their soon to be come back song.” It was hard to accept at first, because the girls did not have an original name under an original group. They were based from another group. Which is why they are going to do their best, to achieve a name of their own. Not to let anyone think of Lucifer as SHINee but Lucifer as Lucifer. They went to intensive training for months; trying to familiar themselves with the dance steps, lyrics but most importantly basic things; fluency in the language, losing weight for the people's taste and develop more of their skills. Then it was down to their image. What is Lucifer's signature look? How will they ever attract their soon to be fans? They something different, not totally similar to SHINee.

And so, the girls transformed themselves. YooIn dyed her light brown hair to red and curled it, to give people the impression she is the Fire Leader.

Hyun cut and dyed her long hair to a greenish blue pixie like, that she is the calm yet risky and challenge one.

Juliette, knowing the difficulty of Koreans to remember her name changed it to Lock but soon after knowing one of SHINee's song was Juliette; she made it a option for her future fans to call her either Lock or Juliette. And she cut hair shorter than Hyun; dyed it purple and found a stylist to make it more gangster-ish. She wanted them to remember her not as just another rapper and dancing but more, far more.

Shin had difficulty in changing her image. She has that innocent image already, how to suit her to the song was a challenge. They had her experiment different looks and eventually settle to stick to her dark honey hair and pale complexion. They wanted her to be the doll, trapped doll.

Lastly, was maknae MiSoo. She did not want to dyed her hair. It stayed its natural black but she has cut it in layers, messier. The rebellious maknae, she declare. And they came up with that idea. A Devilish group, just like the demon Lucifer right at the bottom of Hell, as said of Dante's Infusim. The first official picture of them was completely out of their personalities.

Lock sighed as she reminisce. She had missed her waist long chestnut hair. But remembering that she's a Lucifer made her threw away that thought. The camera man started to gesture them for an introduction. This was going to be the first filming of their reality show. It's basically this camera follow them everywhere, record everything to be shown to everyone. It's an indirect way to let Lucifer's future fans to get to know them. And the girls in a row introduced themselves. "Hello! We are Lucifer!" YooIn started to bow and proudly declare, "Hello, I'm Lucifer's leader Park YooIn!" the rest followed suit.

"A y'all! Black Gem Hyun's here!" Hyun made a peace sign.
"Hello there, I'm Sweet Shin. Please to meet you,” She bowed politely, typical of Shin.
"Hey people, Lock here," she winked, and as if she discover a bomb; she shrieked, "ah, MiSoo is not here!" she declared in horror.

"She's in the bedroom," Hyun said carelessly as she arrange flowers at on desk at the bottom of the picture; where they usually place car keys, letters and notes. Surprisingly, it was white, just like the walls. The only thing that was not white was the floor. But it was pale wood.

"Is she jet lagged again?" YooIn asked then sighed. She brushed up her red fringe with her long fingers, “can't be help, she did fly over last night.”

"I seriously don't get why she doesn't want to go to school here,” Lock crossed her arms, the camera focus on her and you can see she's as thin as skin and bone. “Let's go wake her so we can do the show." And with that, the girls rushed to a room. Apparently the owner who used to live in this apartment dislike bright colours, so he painted the whole apartment white. The girls were too busy to decorate the whole apartment so they could afford to buy colourful random stuffs. Now that the cameraman was far, he filmed their clothing. YooIn was wearing an oversized long sleeves t-shirt and quarter jeans, something really comfortable yet almost fashionable. Hyun had a black turtle neck on with white shorts, she had an to go out to buy groceries with Lock, who was sporting a yellow blouse and dark jeans, wrapping her arm was a darker jacket, when the cameraman came. Shin had a white dress on, unusual to be worn inside a house but soon she explained her mother always dress her up in dresses when she was a child, now it became a habit.

The cameraman followed clumsily through the white hall. Finally reaching yet another pure white room where it seems to be the girls' bedroom. It was all white and the one of the walls was pure glass, a floor-to-ceiling and wall-to-wall large window, over looking the park next to the apartment. So the room was incredibly bright. There were five beds arrange right in the middle of the room in a row. The rest of the space were used by white drawers. And right in the corner, with a drawer full of books, was a black hair girl sleeping peacefully, not aware of her members.

"MiSoo~~~~~~~~~~ wake up!" Lock jumped on the bed, Shin quietly took her place in the next bed as Hyun and YooIn watch, standing next to the camera.

"Lock is always like that," Hyun made a closeup to the camera, now looking closely you could see her Chinese features.

"Yeah, that's how childish she is," YooIn giggled.
"HEY! I HEARD THAT!"
"So what?" Hyun does stick her tongue out, playfully. Even so, Lock get pissed easily.
"Yah, MiSoo," Lock kicked MiSoo's back and that made her fell. Soon a messy black hair shot up.
"What do you guys want~~~~~~~~~~~~~~?" she wailed, obviously, not pleased. Soon she climbed up the bed and wrapped herself with the white blanket.

"MiSoo o-neechan. . . (unnie in Japanese)" Shin softly call out, MiSoo looked at her, not as angry. Even though MiSoo was the maknae but Shin was the eternal maknae to them as she is like the ideal little sister. No one gets angry at Shin. "We're filming right now," she pointed to the camera. MiSoo looked and still looked for a few minutes. As if she wish it was a dream and disappeared. But soon after exchanging glance with it, she sighed.

"Hi, I'm MiSoo and I'm pretty much jet lagged right now, so if you all please excuse me." She stood up and walked lazily towards the bathroom. Her whole appearance and movement was like a zombie.

"Please do excuse her," YooIn bow.
"She's not really jet lagged, she just hates riding planes."
"She's a weirdo, if she hates planes then why does she refuses to go to school here?"

"Um. . . " Shin tried to catch their attention, everyone looked at her, "cause. . . she. . . likes someone."

"Other than JongHyun sunbae?" YooIn asked, Shin nodded. She turns to the camera, "please edit this out, we don't want any complication. And Shin, please don't mention this to anyone." YooIn spoke as a leader and her voice and tone was too overpowering, the other members were silence.

"Anyway, shall we continue with the program while we wait for maknae?" She smiled sweetly, as if nothing just happened.


Chapter Three: Interviews

"Is everyone ready? We're going live in 3. . . 2. . . 1. . ."

"Hey yo everybody, SungMin here and you're listening to my awesome radio," even though he said it like that, he winked. "And we have a very special guest with us!" He pressed a button and an audience could be heard clapping. "They just debuted a week ago and they're reality program is doing well! Now let me introduce to you all~~~~ SM's new and hottest group. . . Lucifer~~~~~~~~~~~~" It was as if he's in a rock concert as SungMin introduce them.

"De, annyeong~ (Yes, hello) I'm Lucifer's leader YooIn,"
"A-yo people, Lucifer's Black Gem Hyun's here,"
"Hey, I'm Lucifer's Rebel Lock,"
"Hello, I'm Lucifer's Sweet Shin,"
"And I'm Lucifer's maknae MiSoo."

"Yes~~ welcoming Lucifer to the world, I'm welcoming you on behalf of the K-POP celebrities. Now," SungMin paused, shuffles some paper around him. "Your reality program is apparently not enough, as it only shows your personalities, wow." He seems shock but quickly recompose as he clear his throat. "So, let me ask you a few questions, starting with Shin."

"Ah, yes." Shin blushed, the first time that the spotlight shines on her, only her. Shin has always been quiet and this makes fans curious to who she really is, during the reality program, she would stand around the background and basically shrinks or blend in. This actually disappoint some the fans.
"So Shin, from sources said, you actually auditioned as an actress?"

"Um. . . yes," she hesitated, she could see that SungMin's hand gestures, trying to make her speak more. The other members also encourage her. "I've always wanted to be an actress since I was little. I've participated in several school plays and commercial back in Japan." SungMin lighten up, seeing another possible topic to discuss. "um, I mostly participated in cosmetic commercial, mostly face creams," she answered SungMin's questions more comfortably. Her answer surprised some of the members as well.

"I always know she has a very pale and smooth complexion but I didn't know she has advertised some facial products," explained leader YooIn confidently. "In fact, Shin's main image is pure and innocent, so her appearance really helped a lot."

"How about her singing abilities? Lucifer is an singing group, as brilliant as SHINee."
"She has a soft and stable vocals," Hyun added.

"My father loved singing, he made me sing on stage once and I love the feeling of it. So I'm grateful that I am a member of Lucifer." Shin said sweetly. It made SungMin smiled brightly. He thanked her.

"Right, now moving on to the leader~," SungMin declared excitingly. YooIn laughed nervously. "So, YooIn, you are one of the lead vocalist?"

"Yes, I have trained in SM for over 5 years," she smiled but there was a hint of bitterness. "The first two years, I did so well that I was about to debut with another group but because of my health I had to stop all activities for over one year. It broke my heart. I love singing so much, I had a dream that one day I would sing a song that represent who I am and my country. Because of that, I was only hospitalized for six months only but it was hard, because the rest of the trainees of my age had already in advances stages or debuted and even quit. So I trained a future three years to make ensure my full training."

"Ah, yes," SungMin reminisced, "being a trainee was hard, especially with your situation. Maybe the first two years was because of stress?"

"Yes," YooIn smiled bitterly, "the training was too much back then and the fees, oh gosh the fees was too much for someone like me." YooIn came from a middle family. Her parents actually wanted her to study but soon realized what their daughter really wanted. Now they support her all the way.

"Yes," SungMin winced in memory as well. "We'll move shall we?" He saw YooIn was about to break down. "Lock!" SungMin rustled some papers, finally found what he was looking for. "Seem like everyone in Korea has been talking about your sense of style,” SungMin seems to think it's hard to believe that people still comment on Star's clothing. . . or maybe Lock wears something unappropriated. But it seems hard to believe.

“My sense of style come both from France and England,” she smiled shyly, confuse to why her clothing became the topic, maybe it was because of that one time she was too lazy to change when the apartment was out of milk. But she was only wearing an oversized white Mickey Mouse sweater! Well. . . her shorts were a bit too short. . . it looked as if she wasn't pants. “I like to mix and match according to colour mostly and. . . balance things out.”

SungMin seems unconvinced to why that's the reason Koreans talk about her sense of fashion. Right now she was wearing a pair of black trousers and mini black kimono. Innocent enough. Maybe people are overreacting. He once again scan his papers, “Looks like we haven't know Lock's real name, naughty, naughty, naughty," SungMin said with a horrible accent while wiggling his fingers. Lock blushed at the statement and defended herself.

"My real name is quite long!" SungMin kept pestering her, "okay, okay!" Lock surrender as she hold her hands up. "My real name is Antoinette Aurore Juliette." She said it all in her natural french accent, which made her members and also SungMin stunned. "Did I ever mention that I'm half french and half British?" she asked, embarrassed.

"We are just shock cause of your accent," Hyun explained.
"Right. . .." SungMin tried to speak, "fans are wondering why you named yourself Lock?"
"Well. . . that's cause. . . I want to match my name with SHINee's Key. . ." Her cheeks redden with every word. “But you all can still call me Juliette, like Key does,” she said hurriedly, too embarrassed.

"Ah right! SmE's plans," SungMin smirked. "Your love~ drama with SHINee, your boyfriends." SungMin laughed evilly, trying to tease the girls. MiSoo was the most affected by it. "Maknae MiSoo," he called out, that made her jumped in surprised.

"Ah. . . yes?" She was really startled or just plain nervous.
"Now I heard something that you're really attracted to Lead Vocalists, could it be the reason you like JongHyun? And. . . let's say, Xiah JunSu? My Wookie? BoA? TaeYeon of Girls' Generation?” MiSoo could only nodded, she was still embarrassed. “Tell me, do you really like your stage boyfriend?" SungMin won't let go of the teasing. MiSoo's cheeks turned as red as a cherry. "Oh she really likes JongHyun!"
"I. . . I. . . really like. . . his voice. . ." MiSoo hesitate on every word. It is obviously already.

"Ah, that's right, you're also the lead vocalist. I bet your dream is the sing a duet with him~~~" SungMin's eyebrows kept going up and down, teasingly.
"SungMin sunbae! Stop it!" Hyun came to the rescue, "can you not see our maknae is about to faint?" She felt MiSoo's forehead, "she can't help if she's madly in love!"
"Unnie!" MiSoo whined in embarrassment.

"Okay, Okay, let's continue with the interview right? Let's see. . .. ah, its says here that you still study abroad? Even though you already debut here?"
"Yes. . . I like to finish my enrollment in Brunei." MiSoo said timidly.
"Brunei? Never heard of it," a curious SungMin stopped following the script.

"Ah, its a small developing country but its really nice and peaceful. I learned to speak English there."
"O English~, smarty ass," SungMin teased again. "I'm sorry, I just love bullying new maknaes," he laughed. "Now, the last member, rapper Hyun~~"

"Hey," Hyun said, full of energy.
"Introduce yourself, we can find anything about you in the net!"
"That's cause when I was about to be a part of Lucifer, I was still in Beijing. I didn't even audition." She said shyly. SungMin was impressed. "My friends and I were joking around and we were so hyper that we sing, well I rapped. I guess someone saw me."

"Is Hyun really your real name?"
"Yes, my name full name is Chloe Siaw Hyun. My mother is Korean, she wanted me to have a Korean name."
"Ah this is interesting, we revealed two real names today, its making me curious over Shin."

"Ah," Shin was surprised as she was back in the spotlight, "I'm full Japanese but my mom is half Korean so we always visit Seoul from time to time."
"I only asked for your name Shin~" SungMin whined cutely, it made Shin blushed for her mistake.
"Sorry, I did not heard it correctly," she actually bow, "my real name is Shinku Kinomoto."
"Aw, even her real name is sounds sweet!" SungMin squealed like a baby. God knows why he suddenly turned hyper.

"Anyway, that's the end of our interview and tomorrow, we will have yet another guest." He paused for effects, "which are Lucifer's boyfriends~, we will be discussing about their up coming reality program which will promote their acting skills~, with that, let Lucifer bid their goodbyes."

. . .

"We're on air in 5 minutes!" EunHyuk was still busy swimming among his piles of papers. SHINee was testing their headphones and mics as they were getting ready to go live in a few minutes.

"EunHyuk hyung, let me help you," Onew offered some help, EunHyuk looked so relief that he almost cried. "Hyung, you should really be organized. These papers were from yesterday!" Onew paused, as if his brain was processing something. Then he eyed the papers suspiciously, "Hey, Hyung," he began ever so casually, "these papers, were used for Lucifer right?"

EunHyuk was still swimming in an ocean of papers, not caring anything, "yeah, there were. SungMin forgot to pick them up again. Now where's that freaking paper??" he yelled out frustratedly.

"We're going live in 3. . .. 2. . … EunHyuk!"

"Yeah, yes?" He startled, then he saw the red light beeping. "Hey, its EunHyuk here and you're listening to my one and only radio station," just like that, EunHyuk's personality changed from a grumpy man that was about to burst to a very charming radio host. "Just as I promised you all yesterday, we have SHINee has a our special guest for today!"

"Hi, I'm leader tofu Onew!"
"I'm SHINee's only bling bling~~"
"Hello everyone, I'm MinHo."
"Yo peeps, the Almighty Key is here!"
"And I'm SHINee's TaeMin!"

"Look's like everyone is hyper but MinHo, anything you want to share?" EunHyuk was trying to stay away from the original topic as he still cannot find his papers.
"Ah, I'm having a mixture of emotions. I feel tired because of the schedule but I'm very excited for tomorrow's filming."
"Ah, and what's that?" rustles kept coming from EunHyuk's mic. He forgot to turn it off.
"Our first filming with Lucifer!" TaeMin answered, bursting with energy, you can hear it in his tone that he's really excited about it.

"Ah, here it is!" EunHyuk declared in victory. Then he realized the red beeping again. "Ah, sorry about that," he apologized shyly. As he smooth the paper so he could read better. "As MinHo stated earlier, what are the other member's reaction towards the filming?"

"I'm really nervous as it tests our acting skills." Onew answered politely. There was a hint of shattering in his soft vocals.
"Oh yes, some are also curious as to what the program really is, could explain further?" EunHyuk delightfully asked.
"Sorry, but you just have to wait for the first episode to be air," Jjong answered happily, it was obvious he was trying to sound mysterious but his excitement won over him.

"And there are also some debate concerning the couple arrangement," EunHyuk looked at his papers, his eyebrow rose in surprise. "That JongHyun's girlfriend should have been Shin or Hyun as MiSoo is the maknae, so TaeMin would be most suitable for her."

JongHyun laughed in embarrassment, "Actually, before the coupling was match. The members of Lucifer was asked which they would prefer to date. Only Juliette and MiSoo answered, so they end up with Key and me."

"You should have seen Jjong's reaction when MiSoo picked him!" Key exploded in laughter.
"Well, in our first variety show, the noonas rarely pick me and Onew, so I was very surprised," explained JongHyun, wide eyed, trying to defend himself.

"Well, are the other members are satisfied with their girlfriends?" EunHyuk asked in curiosity asked Onew who has fallen silence.
"Base on the description of YooIn, I was really attracted to her voice. So I'm looking forward to meet her." Onew showed his unique eye smile.

"You haven't met YooIn-sshi?" Onew shook his head at the question.
“We haven't met them yet, except for TaeMin." MinHo finally spoke again.
"I meet Shin weekly in SmE building," TaeMin said timidly.

"Ah Shin!" EunHyuk's face lighten up, "Shin is a very cute girl."
"See Key, I told you so~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" TaeMin whined at Key. (referring to chapter one)

"MinHo-sshi," EunHyuk tried to bring the attention to every member, "what do you think of Hyun-sshi?"
MinHo smiled, you can see he was trying to hide his blush. "I heard that she's very talented but when I hear about her appearances, all I get is a tomboy image."
"Yes yes," EunHyuk agreed, "yesterday she came in with a pair of short jeans and a baggy sweater."
"Hyung, I'm jealous of you," MinHo pouted. EunHyuk asked why, "cause you've met her." This made EunHyuk's instinct activate. Time for teasing! Okay, okay for the sake of MinHo's fans, I'll skip the teasing.

"So, any hints of what the first episode will be?" EunHyuk glanced at the clock, it was almost time to end.
"Well. . . it will be a meeting session. . . almost like a date. Well it is a date. And each of us will plan the date to get to know Lucifer," TaeMin answered carefully, not revealing important information, before EunHyuk could say anything more, the bell rang, indicating that the interview time was over.

"Right, that's all from my awesome radio! Thank you!'


Chapter Four: First meeting

“Hey everyone, it's TaeYeon of Girls' Generation here,” she waved but judging by the wobbling camera, she must be filming herself with her personal video camera. And the suspicious thing was; she was whispering. Now she was giggling excitedly as she looked around. Her background were trees, bushes. She was outdoor, and definitely not the city. “I'm not suppose to be here but I couldn't resist,” she turned the camera around slowly, so it would capture everything. There were camera crews, lighting crews, sound crews, makeup and clothing girls but the most noticeable thing was the nervous PD. The camera turned back to TaeYeon, “they are getting ready to shoot Onew's first date with YooIn,” she smiled evilly. “I'm not suppose to be filming this but I'll just show it around when the official show goes on air. Ah! There's YooIn!” The screen immediately turned and focus on a girl in a normal blue t-shirt and jeans, walking briskly towards a van while reading over a pile of papers. In the background there was still TaeYeon's hyper voice; mumbling something like 'I feel like a professional spy,' and continued with her evil laughter. “Okay, I'm now going to turn off this thing and tried to sneak in her van. See you then.” The screen goes blank.

A sigh from TaeYeon as she adjust her camera. She was sulking. “I didn't get to the van. . .” she trailed off, too upset to continue. But her face lighten up as someone said 'CUE'. “Oh, they're filming already. Let's go!” The screen blurred with green but then it stayed on two figures, walking side by side. If only TaeYeon could go nearer then she could get a clear audio. But she did noticed that YooIn changed from her simple outfit to a sophisticated one; a green acid turtle neck, black shorts and white leggings. Her green boots looks good against the path of peddles. And not to forget Onew. He looks smart with a crisp white shirt, black jumper and darker trousers. He was even wearing a tie! Almost like he's going to meet her parents.

“Noona, have you been to Sweet Delights? A restaurant around here?” Onew asked, so shy that TaeYeon never seen him like this. YooIn was biting her lower lip as she twisted her fingers.

“No, I never heard of it,”

Onew looked so relief that TaeYeon wanted to squeal. It's so cute to see two youngster on a date. “You going to love it. It's a really nice place to sit back and relax. Not to mention the amazing greenery surrounding the outside dining area. You would feel so pleasant you never want to leave!” TaeYeon's self cam turned to the crew and almost every staff member wanted to laugh. Onew sounded exactly like the brochure.

“And what will we do next?” YooIn glanced at his eyes. Onew just blushed madly and messed up his words. Afterward, almost suddenly, Onew's body stiffen as he walked. He moved closer and closer to YooIn. And finally reaching for her hand. TaeYeon zooms to capture it. And the two of them got embarrassed. In the end they ate their lunch, Onew opened up and started to act as his normal funny self and made YooIn laughed all the way. But after YooIn suggest a scroll through the area; Onew fell silence. The two of them even manage to hide away from the crew and came back blushing madly!

“Well, that's all for TaeYeon's cam of Onew and YooIn's date! Wait for the next couple.” She winked and turned off her camera.

. . .

“Sorry, sorry I'm late. There was a problem with transport earlier.” TaeYeon apologized repetitively. “The couple has already started their date. Apparently JongHyun brought MiSoo to his high school. Maybe to persuade her to study in Seoul than Brunei? Well, let's just see.” The camera spin and landed on two people walking down the hall, showing much skin ship; JongHyun had his arm around MiSoo's wait and her head rest on his shoulder. Typical of JongHyun, of course. And of course, typically of JongHyun. They were now in the music room. They spend the rest of the afternoon there, singing, making piano covers of various shows. It may not be the most romantic thing but they both seems content enough.

“MiSoo, come with me,” JongHyun said, noticing how late it has gotten, holding out his hand as he smiled charmingly at his on-stage girlfriend. Like a kid she was, still dreaming of a prince, took his hand. Together they almost beat the filming crew as they ran out. But as soon as they step outside, JongHyun scream, “Burn it!” And fireworks. Fireworks in different patterns, different colours exploded into the night sky. JongHyun had planned it all. He even set up a picnic set right outside where they now sat after the fireworks. They ended the date with JongHyun singing his favorite song, “Nothing better than you,”

TaeYeon sniffed as she watched the couple, “that is so sweet,” and switch off her cam.
. . .

“Ha! Now I'm earlier than the stars. . .” But TaeYeon groaned. But by the time Key arrives, she has explore the entire place of his planned date; which is the beach. Well a rented beach house. “I think Key wants to see Lock in a bathing suit,” TaeYeon laughed evilly. The beach house was very modern and convenient. A perfect dating place for the couples out there who wants fresh air. TaeYeon even lied on the soft bed before Lock or Key arrive. That was how early she was. “Okay, there's Key now, walking towards the house. I better hide myself, see you later,” TaeYeon wink before the screen turned black.

The next time TaeYeon filmed herself was when her face is sulking, “Key dongsaeng caught me. . . Now I have to sit here and not bother them. . .” But her spirits once again regained as she smirk, “but who ever listen to dongsaengs?” She happily skip towards the door. Key, in a shirt and shorts was playing in the fresh blue sea with Lock. They were playing some kind of games. TaeYeon was happy enough to see Lock wearing an oversized t-shirt but the t-shirt occasionally sticks to her figure. Key always find his ways. But ever so often, Key would reach for Lock and she always take his hand. It's nighttime when Key finally take actions. Lock was at a the shower and Key arranged it all in the white and black beach house; a candle light dinner. And they slow dance the night away. Key has always been the romantic one.

“And that conclude today's filming,” TaeYeon said dreamily.

. . .

By now TaeYeon was fed up being secretive. And so she now interviewing MinHo openly. “So why do you choose this as your date?” TaeYeon looked around, also showing the place with her personal camera. The place was a kitchen; SHINee's kitchen in truth. And the table was full with cooking, baking ingredients.

MinHo was now arranging last minute stuffs. TaeYeon could see the faint blush on his cheeks. “Well. . . I want my first date to be simple and something so close to my every day activities. Which is why I want it to be here. So I can remember vividly what Hyun and I do here.” MinHo looked around and was pleased with the effort he made. But when he heard the door bell, his body stiffen. TaeYeon giggled as she came to answer the door. Hyun was cute today, despite her tomboyish image. She's. . . well girly. And she looked exactly like a wife as MinHo put on her apron for her. They started something basic like MinHo making the rice and Hyun made the vegetable soup. In the end, they made a wonderful well being meal that looked as if on magazines. But their date did not end up like that like though. MinHo gave Hyun a tour of SHINee's apartment and they fell asleep on the couch with MinHo lying on Hyun's lap.

TaeYeon sighed as she turned the camera to her face, “Please, let me date. It's so nice to see them date,”

. . .

“Exploring Seoul!” SHINee's maknae proudly declared for his date, “I want to show Shin the beauty of Seoul since she's from Japan.” TaeMin jumped in excitement.

“You don't know she comes to Seoul every summer since she's 14?” TaeYeon asked. TaeMin fell silence.

“Really? But I prepare this day for weeks!” He smiled, clearly embarrassed. TaeYeon patted him and told him to think of something before she comes. But it was too late. The minute TaeMin tried to think, Shin came out of her car wearing a pale pink dress, all ribbons. TaeMin's jaw dropped at the sight and he pulled it back up when TaeYeon laughed loudly, causing her camera to film upward to Seoul's clear sky. In the end, TaeMin had no choice but to proceed with his plans. To his fortunate luck, Shin never been to some parts of Seoul. They visited flower shop, cake shop, cafe, a book store and basically anything. They just laughed as they come in and out of stores. Still, they are kids, anything is better than nothing and everything excites them. Somehow, the kids managed to get a hold of a bicycle and they ended up riding it up and down the park. At some point, with TaeMin in front, Shin hugged his waist and lean her head against his back. And when they just walked around, TaeMin grabbed her hand and lead her. These kids, already know skin ship. But their date ended with a kiss! Baby TaeMin actually lean down and kissed Shin's forehead.

TaeYeon sighed, “how fast kids these days know,”

. . .

“And now it's time to show the results,” TaeYeon said dramatically. “You may not know it but the ratings of each episode of the dates has been compare and we managed to tally it up.” Now she was standing in front of a graph. Showing the TaeMin's date the highest and JongHyun's date the lowest. “And SHINee + Lucifer has chosen their scripts for their very own drama. Please stay tune for next week's JongHyun's horror scene. . .” her voice deepens with a scare. But JongHyun suddenly came out to the set and demanded an explanation.

“I thought my date was the most romantic one! Baby Tae only kissed her! I set up a whole fireworks!”

“Because you started your date in a school's music room for hours. Remember the ratings counts, not how romantic it is. But I personally love Key's date,” TaeYeon wink and the show ended with JongHyun still arguing with the staff members and the credits floating which read;

JongSoo – Horror
MinHyun – Tragedy
OnYoo - Music
TaeShin – Romantic
Key & Lock – funny


Chapter Five: Horror Stage

A Scare.

I walked casually down the street of Seoul; hearing the splash shattering of wet water under my boots. The rain was getting heavier and heavier with every step I took. Drops of water crashed my translucent umbrella like rocks. I was disappointed since the dark clouds interrupted my shopping for RyeoNa. As if on purpose, it rain cats and dogs. I hugged my jacket for dear life as I scanned the main street. People still inhibit the main streets even though it was late in the evening. One lady caught my attention.

She was standing still right in the middle of the road, as if she was a statue. I also noted how soaking wet her clothes were, they were hugging her perfectly tiny sculptured body. What stand out about her was her shoes. Her rusty red shoes damaged by the heavy rain. It was creating a splash of colour since her clothing were dark earth colour; navy patterned tights and a dark brown mini dress. Was she on her way to a date? Her were pale as paper but it glowed softly under the artificial street light. It was so pale, I noticed the purple bruise under her eyes. The paleness contrasted so much with her black ebony wood hair. Her straight fringe were hiding her eyes. She just stood there, as if she was an angel, as she was a Goddess. The odd thing, the out of place object; was a red red rose gripped by her long slender fingers. I could see her veins, blue and purple, threatening to burst out.

As I walked past by her nervously, she looked up. Her eyes were beautiful, raspberry red and captivating. But they had this shade of sadness. The rain helped her to cry. The rain cried for her as well. It traced down her face and landed on her lips, pale as blood but her fangs glistered under the lights.

I blinked, trying to confirm the reality. But the girl vanished. All that was left pools of rain drops where she stood. I sighed in relief, my imagination must be playing tricks on me. I shrugged and was about to walk away before a red flash cornered my sight. A red rose settles itself in my hand which was till clutching my jacket. . .

I ran.

. . .

I catch my breath somewhere, I don't know where. But somewhere quiet. Somewhere safe. I pressed my hand on a wall, trying to steady myself. I could feel the inky green moss spreading on my palm. It was hard to breath, the rain threatened to chock me. As I look up, pounding my chest; there was a glimmer of red right at the end of the alley where I now stood. Is that. . . her? The two right amber blinked and I stood in horror. How did she get here so fast? Is she human? I tried to move my right feet but it refused. Within a blink, she was right in front of me. The lighting's flash made her skin a lot paler than it was. But the way she looked at me, the way her eyes had that shade of sadness. Her red lips were shaking. . .

“Help. . . “ And she collapsed, resting herself onto me. I hold her steady, her body felt so cold.


Chapter Six: Tragedy Stage

As time passed by.

1st grade

I was just bullied by a group of nasty looking boys, they took away my lollipop, dragged me through the mud, punching me at every surface of my body. They even called me a sissy girl. And I just let them do that to me. Now I was crying at the very spot they left me. I do know how long I had been crying but when someone finally woke me, it was late afternoon. The person who shook me awake was a little girl with long pigtailed hair. It was shining black, so silky that I was captivated.
She then handed me her lollipop, "wanna be friends?" She asked with a very sweet voice and a really big smile. I took the candy from her and began to suck on it hungrily. "I'm Hyun, what's yours?" She asked as my teeth sink in the sweetly taste of the rainbow coloured candy.

I answered in my most timid voice, "Choi MinHo."
And that the beginning of our relationship as friends, and only friends.

10th grade

"Hey, do you know how to answer this question?"

"Which one?" I turned on my chair to face her, my so called best friend. Her black sea eyes were looking down at our history work. As she further explained how she far she understood the question and do not know how to write down her answers, I stared at her. Her skin was paler and her cheeks looked flushed; she must has pulled an all nighter last night. Not to blame her, the literature homework was due today. I also noticed her full soft pink bottom lip, did she get a new lip gloss?

"Oh! I get it now!" She startled me with her loud finally-getting-it tone. I think she had answer her own question. "Thanks Minmin!" She leaned over and kissed my cheek. How I long for her. How I want her to be mine. How I want to tell her my feelings, but I was too shy.

11th grade

I was at her locker before lessons start, she was complaining about her date; he was sick and she even went all out for her dress. I didn't even have a date, cause I rejected every girl that asked me for Hyun, anything for Hyun, even if it kills my social status. We actually made a promise before; if neither of us had dates to the prom, we'll go together; as friends. I rather go alone than with another girl. It could have been the greatest night of my life too, as people would say; and it did. We slow danced together to our favorite music and just talk during dancing songs. Her arms around me and mine over her. It was a dream come true. I wanted to protect her with all my heart. As I looked down at her now short hair, it was still radiant black, just like I first saw her. After the dance, I walked her home. When we arrived in front of the door of her house; she hesitated to go in. My heart was nervous, could this be the moment I've been waiting for?

It wasn't.

"I had a great time then I thought, Minmin" she laughed tiredly, there was no hint of affection more than a best friend. She tiptoed and kissed my cheek. How I long for her. How I want her to be mine. How I want to tell her my feelings, but I was too shy.

Graduation day

Months, weeks and days passed; how I dread for this day to come. I was not ready for this day, ever. I no longer have the reason to see her every day. She was moving away from me too; a Beijing scholarship offered her such a deal. As she walked across the stage to receive her graduation certificate, I was completely mesmerized. This was the girl who gave me a lollipop when we first met. This girl was so cute and chubby back then, but now she's as elegant and majestic as a rose; as beautiful as my eyes believe. After the ceremony ended, she struggled to stay in front of me as her all of her relatives came to see her graduate, they kept popping every minute we talked. At long last, we managed to talk for a full five minutes, to say goodbye, to promise to see each other again. Then she tiptoed and gave a kiss on my cheek. How I long for her. How I want her to be mine. How I want to tell her my feelings, but I was too shy.

Wedding day

She was no longer free. She was someone's else now. She's in love with someone else, not me. I had no heart to tell that I was going to the military. She looked so happy and was literally glowing as she link her arm around her newly wed husband. Who would've thought she would marry her own teacher? Well, everyone in school knew he was as suave as a gentleman, moved fast too. When he saw her at the graduation ceremony years ago, he followed her. Made her fall in love with him. Now there they are, swore to be with each other till death due them apart. After the first dance was done, she came over to me.

"Minmin! I'm so glad you made it!" she lean over; she was as tall as me now with her wedding shoes and gave me a kiss on the cheek. How I long for her. How I want her to be mine. How I want to tell her my feelings, but I was too shy.

After War

The war ended and we won. Everyone was celebrating, but in mourn. The only lively party was outside our military walls. People like us, who seen our friends died so many times in front of our eyes, felt so miserable, how could we celebrate their deaths? Sure, we're alive but the images, the horror of that battle will hunt us. We might as well be dead. As our general said, sometimes dying is a blessing. And there were times when I wish I was dead. But thinking of Hyun, I still have the courage to survive. I manage to grab a working phone booth after the victory ceremony and decided to call my parents first.

"Oh MinHo!" I could hear my mother's relieved voice; she was thankful to God that her oldest son survived.
"Say mom, when I come back home next week, could my friend come along? He has a missing leg though." There was hesitation.

"Well, sweetheart, we don't want to be a bother do we? I mean, what would other people say? You know your father has a reputation. . ." my mother rumbled on and on, cautiously choosing her words, but I wasn't really listening, anger boils in me and at the same time, tears are threatening to spill as I looked down at my leg; one was missing. Feeling so much hatred for them, I immediately hung up on the phone, let them worried. I just can't believe my own mother didn't want to take a person with a missing limb. Then a thought came; I could live with Hyun. Hyun would never refuse to my requests, especially after the war and for years we haven't seen each other. I could stay there for a while. As long as I could escape from the horrid walls of the army. Her husband would hate it though, but what the heck; I never did like him too. I rubbed my cheeks that she has always kissed. How I long for her. How I want her to be mine. How I want to tell her my feelings, but I was too shy.

Funeral

MinHo was now standing on the wet ground, the constant rain of the day won't stop, as if the sky was crying for him as well. He only arrived a few hours ago. When he tried to call Hyun, her husband answered. Even though MinHo hated the bastard who stole his best friend, he was worried over his tone.

"MinHo-sshi, Hyun got caught in a car accident. . ." was the only thing MinHo's brain could process. It was not fair; he should have died, he was in a war. While Hyun, Hyun was safe and sound in her peaceful house with her husband and kids. It was not fair. The only good thing about the constant rain was the droplets would hide his own tears. While her coffin went down, her father was reading a diary, Hyun's diary. Her last wish when she died.

"It was a sunny today! I have literature homework that I already finished after spending a whole entire night! Gosh, why did I ever take that subject again? Oh yeah, cause MinHo took it too. Diary, I asked him about a history question too so he could notice me; but he still act normally. How could he act normally when I had my new lip gloss on? The worst part when he didn't even respond or blushed with I kiss his cheek. Diary, how I long for him. How I want him to be mine. How I want to tell him my feelings, but I was too shy."

He cried out in pain.


Chapter Seven: Music Stage

Show me.

It was bright and early in the morning; one particular student was walking across the brightly lighted hall. The sun was streaming through the glass and shines his uniform, somehow he looks amazing in his while other looked like mutants with the ugly brown patterned school colours and the horrible non-styled navy blue coat. This particular student was non other the top student in the whole school; Lee JinKi but he preferred to be call Onew. He likes to walk alone, only because during school hours his worshipers would stalk anywhere, anytime. It was hard to be the top but there are advantages; he could skip boring classes and just do what he loves; playing classical instrument. But his stepfather, a rocker, wanted him to learn guitars, bases, drums, just about anything a rocker do. You bet Onew was rebellious; he's not that a goody two shoes. Yet, when he passed the 13th musical room that morning, he stopped in his tracks. What made him stop was a sweet lively piano playing, along with an amazing voice. They mix together like hot toast and butter. Onew peeped through the door, quietly not wanting to disturb the music.

And there she was, in another school uniform. Onew knew that fiery patterned skirt anywhere.
But hatred quickly flee away from his heart as his ears silently took in the musical notes. They were lively at first but the base keys were trying to play a different note, as if saying; you can't really understand happiness unless you suffer misery. Onew knew the piece well. It was inspired by a poet who gave hope to many. As the girl finally finished playing, she sighed. Onew tried to get a better view to why the action but he accidentally fell and make a whole a lot more noises from clatters of instruments. Onew was still lying on the floor till he heard her giggles. Gosh, even her laugh was all silvery and pure.

"Are you okay?" A hand suddenly appeared in front of Onew's face. He looked at it for a few seconds. . . before slapping it away. Somehow it hurts him, not just his hand by the way but also his heart. but he must remember. . . she's the enemy. His school and her's, has always been fighting over the yearly best musical school awards. Somehow, her school has always won. Onew's school has a such a longer history of producing talented artists that actually care what's the meaning of music, than her; which most graduate would end in fame and fortune. It just sickens him. He quickly stood up, brush off imaginary dusts off his uniform and glared at her. This was the first time he noticed her. She has dark red hair curl hair that falls down to her lean small waist; her uniform hugged her body like silk that just naturally falls off her beautiful figure. She made Onew suddenly uncomfortable and swallowed. But he manage to recompose himself before she noticed.

"What- what-- what are you doing here?" He shuttered at every word he spoke, the girl smiled, looking amuse by the situation. Onew realized her cute dimples and her eye smile. He mentally slapped himself before his body made another weird chemical reaction in him that makes his heart beats faster.

"I'm here for this," her soft pale fingers reached into her pocket and produced a soft creamy finger. Onew realized his ugly messy handwriting; he almost claim it wasn't his as he was too embarrassed.

"So, you're Onew." She spoke slowly, softly, as if processing this new information and she started circling him. It made Onew really uncomfortable. In order to turn the power upside down; he grabbed her hand and pulled her towards her. So he could have power over her. His other slide swiftly under her silky hair and hug her waist. he was surprise on how slim she was. "My, not patient are we?" she asked, completely amused.

"I never expect my challenge was accepted," he eyed her carelessly.
"Yes, well, no one dares to go up against you. You built such a reputation in my school," now Onew was amused.
"Well, what could I say? I am talented."
"We'll see," with that, the girl released herself from his arms. "We'll battle it out in the park joining our schools together. I'll be waiting," as she turned her back, Onew manage to hold her again.

"I didn't catch your name." His face was inches away from her. There was something about this girl that was attractive.
She smiled childishly, happy, "I didn't threw it." With that, she kissed him. "Goodbye Onew, it was nice to finally meet such a amusing opponent."

. . .

"Onew!" a friend called his name. Onew looked up but immediately regret it was his friend began to suffocate him. "So today is the day right?" JongHyun grinned as he messed up Onew's hair. Onew especially put gel in it for the day. The day he would compete with the girl. He had asked everyone in his school about her. Apparently her real name is YooIn, Park YooIn, the younger sister of DBSK's rapper Park YooChun. Onew was almost impress by her. A younger sister of the most popular singers in the whole world? No wonder she was daring enough to step into the enemy's territory.

"So this. . . YooIn girl," JongHyun cracked his brain for her name, "I found more info 'bout her," he finally let Onew go after seeing his skin was becoming blue. While Onew choked, Jjong was searching in his pocket. "Ah! Here it is~" he sang happily, holding out a paper triumphantly. "let's see. . . she won several singing competitions. . . nationally, in France and the world wide contest. . . she has excellent sound in all musical instruments but she do best in piano." Jjong rambled on and on but hearing the word 'piano', Onew's mind traveled to the day they met. How lively and skillfully YooIn played the piano. It made Onew amused, Jjong began to straggle him, asking why he wasn't listening. But before Onew could answer, the school's main clock dings, it made both boys' heads turn to confirm the time. "It's time. . ." Jjong trailed on, letting his hands off Onew. Onew nodded and sort out his uniform.

People have been gathering at the park ever since they heard the show down. It would be the battle of the year as both top student from two enemy schools are going to battle it out, who is better. There stood YooIn, as confident she was when she met Onew. It made Onew nervous somehow, seeing such a confident person. As Onew finally standing beside her, she revealed a very nervous smile, only for seconds then turned back to her confident self. It surprised Onew. Why did she smiled like that? She held out her hand, and Onew took it. She began to lead him to his side of a piano. Somehow her school had heard of the battle and they spent a fortune for the stage to be build. As sponsored of the stage, YooIn was first. She played a piano version of Bolero by DBSK. Her brother's song, it had so such soul and power in it, she can't help but love that song. And she hoped, the people who are here now, will also love it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=07zNFVUptoI

People clapped, they shout in delight. YooIn had their hearts. Onew was as nervous now. His fingers were all shaking and he was worried he might play a wrong note. But somehow, YooIn came over to his side and kiss his cheek. "Good luck." She wished as she walked down and was greeted by the principles and teachers. After shouts of encouragements from his side, he began to play a song he wrote himself. YooIn helped him to finish it. Well, her presence did. Since that morning, Onew couldn't stop thinking about her and her kiss. It made him suffer, and so he wanted to portray that sufferings in his music. Even though the genre was completely different from YooIn's but it is from his heart, and so, his fingers began to slide across the black and white keys.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z5ZGJlGzh7c

Shouts and screams from his fans were heard as he finished with his piece. It was not hard to determine the winner as Onew resigned from the competition as soon as he finished.
. . .

"Hey," a girl's voice called out. Onew knew it well. He was now in the 13th music room, trying to fix his music from the competition, somehow it didn't sound right. "Can I ask?" she asked when Onew didn't show any attention to her.

"No," he answered automatically.

"Fine, I won't," he could her angry stomps as she walked to his side. She saw the papers in front of him, he has been working on his piece. "Is that why you quit? You didn't think your music was good enough?" there was still no respond from him. YooIn who was now upset, sat down next to him. "You know, I like your piece better. . ." she trailed on, it made Onew stopped for a moment. He looked at her now, she was playing with her fingers. Somehow, he just want his feelings to go away.

"Hey YooIn," he called out, she looked up. "I like you," and with that he lean down and kissed her right on the lips.


Chapter Eight: Romantic Stage

Back to square one all over again.

She was everywhere now. My so called childhood friend had landed a deal with the country's most popular entertainment. And she's as famous as people predicted. Her music changed though. Yes, she has been singing since the age of two, a bit tone deaf at first but as she trained endlessly, you just can't help it but falling in love. Just like I did years ago. Which is why I've come to Seoul, just hoping to see her. Maybe she doesn't recognize me cause she left years ago and I've change in height and appearance, or maybe just she can't bother to remember now that she's famous. But my Shin would never do that. Even in variety shows, she's the still same shy Shin. There was something, maybe it was the light or the special effects in her debut song, but it made me running to Seoul, hoping to meet her once again. Cause I like long before.

"Hey TaeMin!" I snapped from my thoughts, scanning my surroundings. I was doing my job in a cafe. I hurried to the direction of the voice to find my manager/chef, Onew. "Those customers just came in five minutes ago and I don't see any waiter to wait on them!" I glance and surely there were two girls chatting animatedly, without any menus in front of them. I bow apolitically to Onew and dashed to them. I don't have much money for my apartment's rent, and I really don't want to make my parents worried. Going to Seoul is my decision. And I have to stick to it.

"Ah, sorry about that, we're busy at the moment," I bow again and the girls were giggling delightfully. As I hand them the menus, one of them were eying me, constantly. "Hm have you decide on anything?"

"Yeah, sure," the same girl place down her menu and smiled at me confidently, "can I have your phone number?" Her friend giggled, hitting the first one jokingly. It made me blush and I asked to excuse myself. Before they could say more, I ran towards the reception and hid. JongHyun hyung sighed as he looked down at me, finally calling Key hyung over and asked to take orders from the table I just left. He sat down in front of me, so he could see my face properly. He laughed at first, I must be blushing like mad cause JongHyun hyung rarely laugh at these kinds of things; like flirting.

"Yah, how could you do your job like this when you can't even handle a flirty girl?" He asked annoyingly afterward. I didn't what to say. He sighed again. "You should get use to Seoul by now, the girls here are far daring than in your hometown." With that, he stood up and looked around, wondering if he missed any customer. What he said are true. In my hometown, every girl was shy every time they talk to me. But now, I'm shy! Seoul is entirely different. Everyone wore branded clothes and very straightforward. And I've only arrived a week ago!

"Yah!" I jumped, hearing Key hyung's unique voice, his face is only inches away from mine. JongHyun hyung snapped at us and told us to be quiet and get away, the reception area is small as it is without our help. Now he's mumbling about Onew hyung's greediness on space. "Let's go," Key hyung took my arm and literally dragged me away to the kitchen, where Onew hyung was skillfully chopping some fruits with one hand and frying chickens with the other. MinHo hyung had a bowl of cake paste around his arm and a mixer in the other hand, gaping at Onew. "Oi you, work," Key hyung nudge MinHo hyung and he seems to be back to reality then. He started to work on his requested cake.

Finally, when Key hyung and I reached the cafe's back building, where the rubbish bins were, he glared at me. "Why do I always take your customers' orders? Seriously, those girls only asked for your number, you could say no or something!" Key hyung lectured me for fifteen minutes before JongHyun hyung personally came to drag us both to work. I spent the whole shift sulking over myself, why couldn't be more like my hyung? Confident, not easily frighten by flirty girls?

Now as I walked slowly back to my apartment, I noticed a girl in a white scarf covering her head, but the rest of her body was covered in black. As I come nearer, afraid it might be a stalker. Well, I never had a stalker but this is Seoul! Anything could happen. Right? But when that girl saw me, her face lit up. I could tell by her huge happy eyes but the rest of her face was covered by the white scarf. "Gosh! Finally you're here!" She jumped up and down excitedly but then stopped, her eyes seems angry, "do you know how long I've waited for you?" she started to hit me. I cried out in pain, her eyes changed again. Almost apolitically. "let's go upstairs~ I'm tired."

Still in a daze, she pulled me through the stairs and in front of my apartment. I don't know what made me reach into my pocket and pull out my key. Or even unlocking my apartment door to let this strange girl in. But I'm sure it was her voice, It sounds awfully familiar. Now she was being fascinated over my place.

"Hey," I caught her attention, she was now smiling, delighted to be somewhere warm. "Who are you anyway?" I asked bluntly, it made her mad. She let her fingers raveled her scarf and I finally recognize her. Kinomoto Shin, the hot new singer that swept the entire Korea over with her sweet voice. My childhood friend.

. . .

"How could not know me, Lee TaeMin?" She angrily stomped and flick my nose. Like we always do when we were kids. I was silence, unable to breath a word. Why is she here? Somehow, she looks like a dream in my old batter up apartment. When I did asked her why, she fell quiet. As if carefully choosing her word, as if wondering if she should tell, as if regretting she has come over and see me. "I ran away," and that's it. That's all she got to say. I think I stared at her far too long cause the next thing she said was: "what? Do I have something on my face?" I shook my head violently, she was perfect. Like a doll. There was an awkward silence afterward. I guess Shin thinks it was her fault. "I ran away. . . cause I heard you're in Seoul." My eyes widen in shock, she ran from her busy schedule to meet me? "Your mom told my mom and she told me," she was now twisting her fingers, a sign that she was embarrassed. "Beside, the company is making me work so hard. . ." she trailed, still twisting her fingers. It made me laughed. She looked at me anxiously, worried. I patted her head, just lightly, not wanting to mess her perfectly styled hair.

"Silly," I flick her nose, "you shouldn't have done that. You just debuted, you should be proud that you have so many things do to." She pouted, it made me want to kiss her. "Now that you saw me, time for you to go back." She hit me on the chest, lightly. Then she just lean on it. As if listening to my heart rate.

"Don't ruin it, I just want to be with TaeMin oppa," she snuggled more to my chest while her hands hugged my waist. And we just spent the rest of the night like that.

. . .

I woke up in a daze, smelling fresh toast and fried eggs for the time since I lived in my old apartment. It was so strong, it couldn't be from any apartment. I shot open my eyes and saw I was in my mattress, complete with a blanket on top of me. I groaned, is it time to go to work? I snuggled happily under my blanket and ignore the clanks in the kitchen. . .

Clanks. . .. in kitchen. . .? Is someone. . .. in my kitchen. . ..?

My body sprung up and my sight immediately directed to the kitchen, where Shin was in an apron, cooking expertly. Just like a wife. Okay, okay stop that. She's too famous for you to date, TaeMin. Besides, she's only here to visit you.

Then why did she act like that last night

Somewhere in my brain asked. Memories suddenly flashed, the hug. Before my brain could process any further, Shin called, time for breakfast.

. . .

Shin hasn't move out from my apartment for a week. She has been cleaning, cooking and washing, just like a wife. I couldn't bring myself to ask her about work, she would go moody and not talk to me for hours. It kills me. But what we do most was going on dates. Secretly, usually at night, where it would be less people, suitable for me as my shifts only lasted till 6 and most of the people presents were drunk. Shin become more intimate as each day passed. I don't how to interpret her behavior. Maybe because of stress or something. But I just can't let myself think that she actually likes me. She's totally in a different league than I am.

"Hey oppa," Shin tried to get my attention. We're on the park, walking hand in hand. The cold breeze help my cheeks from blushing. And we were the only people in it, other than the occasional joggers. When Shin get my attention, she stood firmly in front of me. "Oppa, do you like me?" Her question made me gulped. The wind wasn't helping anymore. I could even feel my cheeks burning. But after a few moments, she tiptoed and kissed me, right on the lips. "Oppa," she breath right after the light kiss. "I really like you, even if you don't; I'm glad I finally manage to confess." She laughed nervously, there was a hint of disappointment. As if she was rejected. I couldn't take it anymore. I hold her by her neck and was about to kiss her again,

"But I do like you, always," my lips touch hers like fire.


Chapter Nine: Comedy Stage

Chickens

"We're going on a trip~ we're going on a trip~" JongTaeOnew sang happily, almost hyper or high as they rode in an old but clean bus. MinHo was excited too, only he kept grinning to himself as he watched the view outside. Key was the most tired member, he actually feel asleep during the bumpy ride. The other members couldn't blame him, he was up at 3 in the morning to arrange the whole trip.

"Hey. . ." something caught MinHo's attention, the rest of the members stopped singing, Key was still knock out cold, "something smells weird," he sniffed, trying to figure it out. But his gaze landed on Jjong's shoe. "Hyung, I think your sneaker is the problem," JongHyun laughed.

"Come on~ you think I'm stupid enough not to--" he stopped halfway, now staring at his right sneaker, "WHAT THE?? THERE'S POOP ON MY FAVORITE SNEAKER!!" he yelled. It made the rest of SHINee ran to the front of the bus.

"THROW IT OUT!"
"EWWWWWWWWW HYUNG! HOW COULD NOT NOTICE??"
"JJONG! I KNOW THAT'S YOUR FAVORITE SNEAKERS BUT THROW IT OUT!!!!!"
"THROW IT OUT HYUNG!!" TaeMin whined once again.

JongHyun quickly opened a window and threw his sneaker out from confusion. But as soon as he does. . .

"OUCH! WHAT WAS THAT??"
"EWWWWWWW UNNIE! THERE'S POOP ON YOUR HAIR!!"
"AND A SNEAKER?? YOU'RE GONNA PAY FOR THIS!!" yelled someone outside. Jjong stared. . . unmoved, but slowly turned to his hyung and dongsaeng, "I'm scared. . .. . .. T_T"

"HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!" Onew, MinHo and TaeMin laughed loudly, crying, begging to stop laughing.

"MY CHEEKS!! IT HURTS! HAHAHAHAH!!"
"OH GOSH MY TUMMY! PLEASE! HAHAHAHA! LET ME STOP LAUGHING!"
"HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!"

Jjong blushed, "IT'S NOT THAT FUNNY!!" he whined but there was no use. He sighed as he sat at the back of the bus, looking at Key; surprise he was able to sleep through the ordeal. As Jjong pouted, looking at any sign of the person. They sounded like girls, he couldn't be sure as he was too afraid.

"Hey, what's that?" TaeMin noticed a box sitting in the front seats. The driver gave them a obvious look, it has been sitting there waiting to be open. Apparently only SHINee can open it. MinHo went over and unclasp it, the smell of fried chicken immediately filled the bus. Without warning, without any hesitation, without caring, Leader Onew dived in the box and ate it all clean within minutes.

"Hyung!" MinHo exclaimed, wide eyes. That was the fastest he saw a person ate a whole chicken by himself. Onew, now stuffed to the brim, sat happily where the box used to be. He burped a piece pf paper came out. "hyung. . .. O.o"

"WOW! Am I that weird?" Onew said excitedly, he took the paper from his shoe. It was wet with his saliva. . ... no one dares to touch it. "It's from our manager. . ." Onew squint at the small prints. "Have a snack, the trip may took a couple of hours. Stay healthy, you have schedule as soon as you guys are back!"

Jjong sighed, he mumbled under his breath "Good old manager, fun killer." Somehow Onew flew to the back and hit Jjong.
"Stop being so disrespectful of your elders!" He scold him. Jjong growled in detest, showing his teeth.
"MinHo hyung. . .. they're weird. . ."
"I agree."
"zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz" snores Key which made all of them stared and laughed. He is indeed the mom of SHINee.

"Okay guys, we're here!" announced the bus driver, SHINee immediately stared out of the window, trying to figure out where Key had booked them. Yes, Key has been sleeping since the bus ride started. All the guys could see was open sand, they're on the beach. Before they could even thank the bus driver and even leaving Key behind. But as they innocently playing with water, forming teams to drench the other, another taxi parked beside the bus. Two girls came out, staring weirdly at SHINee.

"Weird guys," a taller girl shrugged the event off, but the other one stared.
"Unnie, there's something familiar about those guys,"
"You're right Shin, that shoe look awfully familiar," the taller girl squint, trying to confirm it. "HEY! IT IS!"

"WHAT? WHERE? LUCIFER??" A very hard knock came from the bus beside, a few moments later a boy with serious head injury came swaying clumsily. The tall girl immediately came to steady him up.

"Hey Lock unnie! Now I realized where I saw these guys!" the younger girl jumped excitedly, "they're SHINee!"
"Shin-what?" Lock looked at her dongsaeng weirdly, how obess she can be sometimes. "What are we gonna do with this guy?" Lock asked, looking a fainted Key. "OMG CHICKEN!!" Lock ran away in fright, dragging Key with her without noticing.

"UNNIE! It's only a statue!"


Chapter Ten: Offstage

A rather happy girl skipped through the halls of SM Entertainment. She was dressed for summer, with her, a pink notebook. Although her image was a rebellious maknae, but she is still a girl. As she reached a door marked, 'recording', she took a big breath. She knew she was late, that means he must be in there already. She straighten her dark hair and clothing before knocking. “It's unlock,” a muffle voice claim. She knew the voice well enough that it sounded distracted. And she was right, he had some papers in front of him as he scratch his dark hair. Now she felt bad to have asked him to meet her today. But seeing the smile on his face when he looked up to see her, made it all okay. “So, which song do you want to practice?” He asked easily, still grinning at her. As he arrange his stacks of papers, she fumble through her book.

“Timeless,” she softly spoke, almost vaguely, as if it just popped out of her head. But it didn't. It's her most favorite song and she always wanted to sing it with JongHyun . . . and Xiah JunSu of course. He looked up in surprise. She gulped, “is it a difficult song?”
He laugh lightly and patted her head, “maybe, since it's RiIn noona's debut song. It should be easy on you.” He lead her to the table and sat down. He was so close to her that she could smell his shampoo. “We have to lower the keys though, since your voice is. . . well your voice and hers is in the more or less same range. . . just that she has a sharper voice and you have a soft sweet one,” he grinned at her. She knew it was a tease.

“Well I also know that JunSu sunbaenim's voice is softer than your oh-so-sharp voice,” she smirked, glad she found a remark, faster this time. He threw back his head and laugh. It's one of MiSoo's charm that's easy to follow.

“Okay then, shall we practice?”

. . .

“No, it's suppose to be left, left, wave further left and stomp right foot to the front,”
“No, you got it all wrong Juliette! It's suppose to be right, left, wave back to the right and take a step back!”
“You look like a scared crab,”

“Whatever, let's just call the choreographer again,” Key reached down to his bag where he pulled out his phone. But he can't seem to get through Obata.. “Hey, Juliette, can you try calling--” Key could not continue his sentences, Juliette was laughing on the phone.

“Yes, yes, I'll tell Key about it. Sorry to bother you, Obata. Good bye,” Juliette turned off her phone and smiled triumphantly at Key. Key was just plain shock right now. He never met a such competitive person before! She used to be this sweet tall girl who was so polite but now she's a monster who never want to lose. Even when it comes to calling someone? That's just childish. “It's my routine, Key darling,” she smirked and practice dancing.

Key wondered why he was stuck to be her boyfriend. But she did a great job fooling him, fooled the staffs and fooled entire Korea by her acting skills.

. . .

“Now, if you could just move closer. . . YES! That's it!” With a click, a white flash blinded TaeMin and Shin as they posed for the camera. It was irony for TaeMin and Shin to be the most popular couple, they just kissed in front of the camera. “Okay, now I want TaeMin to hid behind the tree, peeping at Shin okay?” TaeMin stood up from the light brown wood bench and proceed to stand behind a tree. “Perfect, Shin, here take this book,” The cameraman handed Shin a thick book, she had a hard time to hold it up. “Okay, that's the look!” Another click and another flash. “Okay guys, take ten. I'll be right back,” the cameraman rushed out. Staffs immediately flock towards TaeMin and Shin, trying to fix their hair, makeup and clothing.

“Is he gay?” TaeMin blurted out as soon as the staffs rushed off. Shin laughed and hit him.
“Don't be rude. He's just. . . feminine,” Shin shrugged, sat down and picked up the book. It was Dante's Inferne. Juliette's most favorite book. It's weird to know someone so fashionable and so sweet outside can be so different in the inside. Well, it's one of the mystery in the world. Shin turned to page one and read it out loud to TaeMin.

. . .

A dancer slide across the air, twirling her tall slender body high, capturing everyone's attention to her. Her small feet covered by the soft pink ballerina shoes lightly touch the moist pavement, as if she was still flying. At the same time, her long pale bare arms spread, as they were wings. In such slow movement they move, creating short romantic waves by the white ribbon she hold in the right hand while her feet tiptoe ever so fast on the pavement, step by step. Yet, by the gush of wind, the ribbon on her hand escaped. The long slender fingers burst open, trying to retrieve it. But the ribbon flew.

“CUT!” The director shouted. It made the dance jumped in fright. She turned around, letting her soft straight burn red hair touch her face. The director had a satisfied expression on his face. “Well done! That's what I wanted! So pure, yet, so fragile, and the last movement. The explode of lost hope! Oh magnificent!” The staffs laughed. It was a habit that the director had. YooIn joined the laughter as she swept back her hair. Some staffs were already ushering her to the changing van. But to her surprise, Onew was there. He had the hugest smile she ever seen. As he been watching her? It was a bit uncomfortable for her.

“That was great, I almost though you'd be a ballerina, not a singer,” he compliment her. She only smiled lightly. She didn't blame him, he doesn't know. When YooIn finally managed to get away from the director's description of his next music video, it was already late.

. . .

Somewhere in a very dark alley, a couple, seems to be holding hands were walking down. At first glance, you can't really see their faces, you just don't care. But a very curious reported trail them. Finally, they stopped in front of an apartment, the street lights were still dimmed. The girl had short, shoulder length black hair with side bangs which empathized her eyes whenever she smiles, a bubbly nose that the guy had taken a liking to and her thin red lips, literally shines whenever she smiles. He like her smiles a lot. The reporter could barely hear their conversation as they say their good byes.

". . . good time. . ."
". . .. thanks. . .. . ."
". . ... see you. . .."

"Hey Kim MinHyo," the guy called out before she could find her key, now his features were scarly visible underneath the lights, the face's structured as if it was a prefect art, the small charming eyes that has melt the hearts of girls and the charming dazzling smile he gives on stage. He was non other than SHINee's very own rapper, Choi MinHo, "I like you," he smiled and the reporter captured the scene with his camera. He has the story to 'The next big thing' it will be, "SHINee's MinHo's real girlfriend." sideline: what ever happen to his on-stage girlfriend, Lucifer's Hyun?


Chapter Eleven: Scandal

Walking passed doors after doors, walking through halls after halls, he finally found her. MinHo finally found Hyun, his stage girlfriend. She had her hair extension on, making her look lady-like. Well in a tomboy kind of way, as she teamed that up with an oversized sweater and her three quarter jeans hugged her legs, making them lean and long. She was dancing with her eyes closed, to Teen Top's CLAP. MinHo watched her, didn't want to ruin her concentration. He'll wait for her, until she's done. The song changed, she still had her eyes close, waiting for the next song to play. And it was Lucifer. The very existence of her, MinHo thought. Without that song, he wouldn't have met her. Now he felt as guilty as ever.

"MinHo?" A rather soft, husky voice called out. Even though it was buried by the loud beats of the song, MinHo could still hear her. With a press of a button, the room fell silence. Casually she grabbed a towel and rubbed away the sweat on her face. "I thought the filming is tomorrow," she looked at him questioningly, he looked down, wanting to avoid her eyes.

"Did--," he began, timidly as ever, "did- did you saw today's tabloids?" There were a number of magazines that picked up the story and published it in every section possible, you name it and there would be MinHo's face, smiling up to a girl.

"Yeah, I did," again, casually Hyun took a bottle of water and gulp it down, "hmm lukewarm," she said in disgust and look up at him. There was no hint of pain whatsoever, did she not get affected by it? MinHo thought. Every girl would be hurt if her boyfriend is seeing someone else. MinHo knew it was wrong but. . . he likes MinHyo better. He blame himself, for liking another girl when SM already decided him a girlfriend. "Seriously MinHo?" He looked up and he felt guilty as ever, her expression. . . he couldn't tell what it was.

"I'm very sorry!" MinHo bowed repetitively, Hyun sighed at the sight. She unclasped something at the back of her neck, finally revealing a necklace, well hidden under her sweater. She showed it to MinHo and he looked at it quizzically. It was a ring, not one of those expensive diamond ones, but this one, well, to put it bluntly, it looks cheap.

Hyun kissed it and smiled, proudly read the cravings on the ring, "were you happy back then, Hyun?" she sighed, "he's always the romantic one," she looked at it longingly, after a moment of silence, she looked at the inner side of the ring, "read it," Hyun gave MinHo.

MinHo hesitated. Maybe it was a trick, she would hurt him for what he did, but after a while, he thought he was being silly. So far, Hyun has been acting. . . well mature. She didn't yell, she didn't ignore him, and she didn't cry. MinHo was grateful. MinHo looked at the ring, the inner engraves were new. Newer than the outside surface. There it proudly said, "I was very happy." Hyun smiled again, holding out her hand, a sign she wanted it back. MinHo didn't said anything as he watched her put the ring back to her necklace and clasped it again.

"MinHo-ah," she stared at the ring, never looked at him, "We are not in a real relationship. I'm only your stage girlfriend. I'm only your girlfriend on television, on shows, not real life. I don't even have the right to tell you to break up with that girl,"

"MinHyo," MinHo automatically corrected her, stopping her sentence, he was now blushing, "I'm sorry, please continue,"

Hyun laughed and messed up his hair, treating him like her younger brother, "Silly dongsaeng," she laughed again, her eyes still once again rested on the ring, "I'm already in love with someone else," silence. MinHo didn't know what to say.

"Someone in Beijing?" MinHo was pretty much awkward, he wanted her to talk, to make sure she's okay. But Hyun's smile disappeared. Her thin long fingers toy with the ring. "Is he. . . somewhere else?" MinHo hated himself for asking but right now he's really curious. Who exactly is this man that made Hyun likes him better than MinHo?

"Dongsaeng-ah," her voice was so low, it was barely a whisper now. But then she looks up and smiled. MinHo caught a glimmer of tear in her eyes. She said in a force cheerfulness, "he's not in anywhere. . . in this planet." She didn't exactly have to say more, MinHo could already sensed her discomfort in her tone, in her expression, the way her fingers stopped playing with the ring.
He hugged her, "noona, I'm sorry." And for a moment, he heard her soft sobs.

. . . Just Outside The Door . . .

"So. . ." her soft whispers, were shaking, "we're not. . . in a real relationship?"
He laughed, quietly, not wanting to disturb the noona-dongsaeng relationship inside. It was true. And he find it cute that she didn't realized it sooner. So she must have thought it was real. . . all this time. "Well, in theory, no," he level his eyes right to hers, "but I like you, MiSoo-sshi," her lips were shaking. JongHyun was amused and kissed her cheek.

"HEY! HEY! Take your lips off my dongsaeng, JongHyun!!!"
"Oh shoot,"

But somehow, JongHyun regret the kiss.


Chapter Twelve: Kim MinHyo

Dedicated to my dongsaeng, Minnie.

"Okay, MinHo-sshi, if you like just to stand there, yes there! Perfect!" the director's tone has an edge of stress. Not to blame him because the make-up girl was late, there was some technical problem for the lights and now the weather was staring to tick him off. MinHo sighed as he looks around. Now he was bored. Even though his scene was finish, the directer still wants him to hang around the set. He sigh as he watches the directer ran off. Something caught his eye when he was looking around, well since he arrive actually. MinHo remember it was just a flash of white, no, it was not a ghost. MinHo thinks this will be his only opportunity to see.

"MinHo hyung?" MinHo jumped in surprise. He turn around and saw TaeMin.
"Aish, you know how scared I was?" MinHo messed up TaeMin's hair in revenge.
"Ah, mianhae (sorry) hyung," TaeMin pouted in the cutest way possible. Even his tone was adorable. MinHo fell silence at first but since TaeMin almost destroy his image as Flaming Charisma, he mess up TaeMin's hair again. "Hyung~" TaeMin whined once again, fixing his hair, "directer said hyung can go home. He remember your scene is finish."

"Chinca?" MinHo mess up TaeMin's hair again, "what am I suppose to do then?"
"Anything other than messing up my hair!" TaeMin pouted, "Onew hyung took the van cause he needed to do something with YooIn noona,"
"Aigoo, why did you tell me that I can go home then?"
". . .. . .. I forgot. . ..."

"What's wrong with JongHyun hyung?" MinHo asked, seeing his hyung lying on the ground. "Is he that sad?"
"He's upset that he can't meet MiSoo noona."
"That explains it."
"Hyung, I have to go now. Key hyung and I are up next."
"Okay," for one last revenge MinHo mess up TaeMin's hair again. He sighed as he sat next to JongHyun.

"Hyung, are you that upset?" MinHo asked, worried. But JongHyun didn't even reply. MinHo sighed again. Now he was really bored. He can't go home, his stuffs were in the van. To put it bluntly, he has nothing to do. Then he heard a laugh from JongHyun. MinHo looked at him and saw his hyung talking on the phone.

"Onew hyung took the van away so I can't meet you, SeKyung" a pause before he spoke again, "I know, have you eaten lunch?" MinHo wanted to throw up hearing that. But hold on, SeKyung? What is JongHyun hyung doing talking to Shin SeKyung? But now MinHo just couldn't be bother. So he decided to leave JongHyun, hoping someone would step on him so he won't be able to talk in the van on the way home. He sighed. How matter times has he sighed on being bored? MinHo was deciding if he should step on JongHyun instead until he saw the flash of white again.

MinHo quickly ran towards it. Everything was in his head just vanish. Not that he care. All he wanted to know was that flash. But it disappear. What's left was a girl with a camera. MinHo thought maybe she's a part of the filming. Only she was taking pictures of the park. Since MinHo's bored and all, he decided to talk to the girl. It's not she's gonna hurt him or something. She has that innocent image like TaeMin, young and care-free.

"Hey there," MinHo greeted her but she didn't respond. MinHo noticed she was pouting, looking at her camera, mumbling something like, is it broken? "I think I can fix it," MinHo said suddenly. He was talking out loud. Before he knew it, the girl looked up at him and he could feel his cheeks burning. "Sorry about that," a paused, somehow she was making him uncomfortable. And she didn't do anything. She hold out her hand, handing her camera at him.

"Please fix it," her tone was soft and sound so sweet. MinHo's heart was beating in an abnormal pace. There was something most definitely odd about her. She's not like any girl in the world of celebrities but she is pretty. MinHo reach out to take her camera and when her skin smooth touch his, he knew he won't let this girl go. He wanted to know more about her.

And before he know it, he asked her out.


Chapter Thirteen: Yuya Tegoshi.

MiSoo sighed as she walked under the hot sun. It was better than have to walk for minutes under the shade. She was late after all. Finally she reached her destination; her boring biology lab. She could feel the coldness of the lab touched her face as she walked in. Her eyes scan the room, trying to find the only positive factor of learning her worst subject. But he wasn't there. She sighed once again and sat down, taking out her schedule book.

She has another interview, alone. Then appearing in Music Bank to promote Lucifer, attending various events but the variety shows mostly take her life. She sighed yet again before interrupted by a rather deep masculine voice. He came. The positive factor in her miserable study. His shadow envelope her and she looked up to see a dazzling smile. "You look so miserable, what are you looking at?" He pulled the book from her grasp and began to scan it. He made a confuse face, "what is this? Is it Korean? You know I can only speak and read Japanese and English," Yuya grinned at MiSoo. His Japanese features every fail to mesmerized her. As if he is her world. She completely forgot about JongHyun. Yuya Tegoshi is the most popular - not to mention the cutest - boy in school. Maybe he is one of the reason she stayed here to finish her study. "So," Yuya slide in next to her, "how's life?"

He is the only person - beside her parents - that knows MiSoo's career. No one would actually recognize her without her uniform. Plus with the makeup and hair, she's a totally different person. "Busy," MiSoo showed a tired smile, "but it's all good,"

Yuya wasn't convince. He immediately hugged her, patting her hair, "poor baby, sorry I couldn't be there to help you," That's right, Yuya is her boyfriend. It's hard to remember whenever she's in Korea. Because there she has JongHyun.

They had met in the library. MiSoo liked it there, because they had her favorite childhood books; Peter Pan and Alice in Wonderland. Sure, call her childish, she doesn't care. Yuya was a student helper there. Since he was the new exchange student, he needed to brush up on his English, fast. And the only student who come regularly was MiSoo. He desperately need the help. They had become friends ever since he asked her to tutor him. Until of course, Yuya hold a surprise event for her to become her boyfriend. Yuya was the romantic caring type, one of the reason she loves him.

And the fact his eyes always sparkler every time they sees her.

But little did she know, JongHyun was announcing his girlfriend right now; Shin SeKyung.


Chapter Fourteen: Goodbye Juliette.




Chapter Fifteen: Sick

MiSoo was just getting out of her airplane. She felt so jet lagged she wanted to puke. But it wasn't jet lag, she just don't like airplane. To her surprise, Lucifer was there. All of them has nervous smiles on their faces; not Shin though, she looks like she has been crying.

"Unnie. . .."
"Hey MiSoo! How was the flight?" Hyun unnie block Shin. What is going on? thought MiSoo.
"It was the usual, I just need some rest to stop the ringing in my ear,"
"Yes, yes she should, you know, without stopping at shops," YooIn unnie declared. Now MiSoo was convince something is terribly wrong.
". . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .." Lock was being too quiet.

MiSoo was suspicious enough now, "What is going on?"
the only thing Lucifer is bad on is. . . lying. Somehow, SM Entertainment put these none lying girls together. Maybe to create an actually honest group. And like a cannon the girls exploded.

"I'm sorry, I'm really sorry,"
"I tried to beat JongHyun up but the security guard won't let me pass through his door!"
"Do not panic, do not panic, just breathe"
Shin was crying.

"Wait, what?" MiSoo asked, the others feel silence. Her eyes scanned the whole airport, thank goodness it's the dead of the night because the place seem deserted. But then, the newspapers caught her attention. She knew that face anywhere. That smiling face. . . was JongHyun. MiSoo held up the paper, slowly reading the article. "Unnie. . .' she slowly turn to her sisters. "what is going on?"

"MISOO!" A voice called, but MiSoo stiffen. That was the voice, she thought, that betray her. But she has no right to scream or yell at him. Their relationship was not real. But but, that time. . . when he kissed her forehead. . . telling her that he likes her more. Oh God. The next thing the others knew, MiSoo fell to the ground.

. . .

"She just need rest, that's all." The man in a white suit announced as he left the room. Everyone else had the same look on their faces; tired and worried. This can't be happening. One of the newest girl group in Korea has been hospitalized. Now everyone will have something to talk about. Saying it's SHINee's JongHyun fault to have cause illness to his on-stage girlfriend Lucifer's MiSoo.

"You can go home, JongHyun," said Lucifer's leader, YooIn. "I don't want her to wake up to see you. She has a lot of stress from this."

But JongHyun could only nodded. He couldn't blame anyone. He was truly his fault. Now he dreaded to see his girlfriend and explain all of this mess. He scanned the room to find Shin still crying, Lock was comforting her. Hyun never took her eyes off the window and she always have that look. . . of disappointment. Only YooIn talked to him. And he could hear the strain force in her voice. He stood up, no one looked at him or say goodbye.

. . .

A week has past, SeKyung was fine with JongHyun's explanation. But a heavy burden made his heart hurts. Today he was planning to visit MiSoo. Only because he knew YooIn had to replace TaeYeon for the day in her radio. Hyun was recording. Lock had to attend Star King. And Shin had another commercial to shoot. Since then, no one ever heard of MiSoo. She just disappear. Now he was standing right in front of the door, just gathering the courage to press the bell. But a guy answered it.

"Can I help you?" He asked in English, a foreigner. His huge round eyes were scanning JongHyun in wonder.

"Yuya, who is it?" A soft weak voice asked from inside the apartment. She looked fine except for the dark purple bruise under her eyes and her hollow dry skin cheeks. She no longer has the cheerfulness. Her tried eyes turned to glares.

"Honey, you should be in bed. I'll get the porridge," the guy once again said in English. Not that JongHyun could understand but he understand the action when the guy kissed MiSoo's forehead and rubbed her back.

Then with an icy cold tone, MiSoo said, "go away." And the door closed.

. . .

"YOU WHAT?!" Lock screamed. JongHyun winced. He told her everything the day he visited MiSoo. After several minutes, Lock calmed down and told him everything. "That's Yuya Tegoshi, MiSoo's real boyfriend. He had flown over despite school to take care of her."
JongHyun just fell silence, trying to digest this new information.


Chapter Sixteen: Sorry, Onew.