Wrapping my arms around my little one, her happy smile upon her face.
Seeing her father right in front of her,
And that was me.
I had never known the idea of being a father could bring much joy into my life and it has been a long while since I became one.
But I never regretted being the one to take her in.
Her mother was not one I wouldn't want to talk about at all, she had left us shortly after our daughter was born.
Y/N - Jinae you're home already?
I spoke to her in a sweet voice I saved only just for her, I wouldn't want to use my usual uninterested, tired voice from staying up all night and through the morning editing at work.
Hae - hm? Jinae!?!?
Listening to Haewon over an excited voice, her steps became louder as she ran over to beside me to join in the hug.
Jinae - hello Haewon-unnie!
Letting go of her, still wearing her backpack.
Haewon took no time in hugging her, happily caressing her back and patting it lovingly.
She was no stranger to having Haewon around, she would come over often just for occasions when she was free or didn't want to hang out with her members.
But you could relate it to that sometimes, her filming locations whenever she does shows or and such are close to my house, so there's that.
Standing up, a smile on my face. I felt relieved that she was finally home but it meant that I didn't have much time since I'm in later today again.
Maybe I should've taken up on Haewon's offer on letting Sajangnim let me off early or clocking in later instead.
Haewon - omo! You've gotten so big!
Watching Haewon lift her up from her little feet, I shimmied my way past them. My hand on the door handle and closed the door fully, listening to the click it makes when it locks.
Jinae - ani unnie, appa and gomo take care of me nice
Y/N - I try my best.
Crossing my arms, watching the two interact.
Haewon kissed her on the cheek, all excited as Jinae poked her on the cheek.
Y/N - Jinae, do you want to wait with your Haewon-unnie while I make breakfast?
Nodding her head enthusiastically, my face lit up once more ear to ear.
Uncrossing my arms and caressing the back of her head before kissing her forehead.
Y/N - be a good girl and wait okay?
Haewon - do you want to play with me?
Jinae - ne!
Walking off back to the kitchen, continuing to cook. I could hear them play in the background behind me.
Now it feels like everything feels just right.
â---------
Sitting at the dining table, Jinae opposite me sitting beside Haewon.
I quietly ate, but glanced every once in a while.
Jinae was still learning how to use chopsticks, so I had bought her those training chopsticks so she could learn.
It was adorable to see but occasionally, Haewon would just feed her herself.
Y/N - is it good?
Jinae - ne! Thank you papa!
Hae - hehe, it's good oppa.
Smiling softly to myself, continuing to eat quietly.
On the table with my phone, its screen flashed at me to see a text message from my sister.
It read that she couldn't make it today to come and take care of her.
Damn it.
I usually only have one option or two, but the second seems less, doable.
Given I have to give her over to my parents, our relationship has been somewhat.
Strained since I had Jinae.
Haven't spoken to them either.
Ruffling the back of my head, my hand under my hair. I sighed loudly when Haewon looked at me concerned.
Hae - what's wrong?
Y/N - nothing it's just- *sighs* My sister isn't able to take care of Jinae tonight. She's filming her new kdrama and it's gonna be a while till she comes back home.
Hae - oh.
Jinae - hmmm? Papa?
Putting on a smile for her, I turned off my phone and stood up. Leaning over the table to pat her on the head with food still in her mouth.
Y/N - don't worry about papa, just something about work. And swallow your food before you speak okay?
Jinae - okay!
Well she already broke that but I'm not going to be hard on her.
Sitting back down into my chair, sliding it back into the table. I picked up my chopsticks and began to eat again.
Glancing at Haewon, her eyes were glued to the table.
She was still as if she was in thought.
Y/N - Haewon-ah?
Hae - oh, oppa.
Looking at me, her expression remained the same.
Y/N - you okay?
Hae - yeah I am. I was thinking about something.
Y/N - about?
Hae - your sister isn't free right?
Y/N - yeah.
Hae - I have an idea.
Y/N - which is?
Hae - how about you bring Jinae to the company?
With boisterous energy, waving my arms out with a accompanying head shake
Y/N - no way
Hae - why not?
Y/N - that's awful, I don't want her to sleep on the couch behind me while I work till late in the morning and what would sajangnim say?
Hae - he would be fine with it
Y/N - no he wouldn't
Hae - if I say it, he would agree
Y/N - but he holds more power, you know that.
Hae - I'll ask JYP himself then, he has kids. He would agree
Y/N - he would probably still say no. it's really unethical, it's literally on the website
Hae - what other option do you have oppa? You don't really want to take her to your parents house after all.
She was right, sitting there as I bit my nail. What other option do I have?
I can't afford to just bring her to one of those places that takes care of your babysitter nor can I even afford a babysitter.
Haewon would do it, something she expressed to me multiple times but the downside is that obviously we work in the same company.
She's an idol and is gone multiple days a year either abroad or here performing.
Y/N - I know, I know.
Shaking my knee, mumbling to myself. She broke my train of thought, her hand on my hand that laid flat on the table.
Her eyes softened to look at mine, my knee stopped shaking.
My ears wanted to listen to her out and also my brain too.
Hae - just hear me out okay?
Y/N - okay.
Hae - how about we bring her to the company and she can also stay in the practice room with us.
Y/N - what about your instructor if you have one today?
Hae - we don't remember? It's a free day for all of us.
Y/N - yeah right, I forgot.
Hae - ani, you're okay. If it makes you feel better, I'll call over the girls. More company for Jinae and for her to make somewhat of friends.
Y/N - I never met your members too, I only know them by name.
Hae - and through the videos right?
Y/N - yeah. It would be a bit weird that all of a sudden, I show up with Jinae beside me and they know about our friendship, which. Did you ever tell them?
Hae - I- I haven't.
Y/N - great. That's great news.
Hae - they'll understand. I know you're worried.
Y/N - I am.
We both looked at Jinae, happily still eating and thankfully, doesn't understand what we're talking about.
Hae - it'll be okay.
Y/N - I ju- just don't want to set an example for her. I'm already gone long enough from her everyday that I don't want her to look at me as someone who's just been- distant from her.
Hae - you're not distant from her. She loves you. I don't know what it's like to be a parent but, we're just doing the best we can like our parents did for us.
Y/N - yeah.
Frowning a bit, my head leaned down to look at the table.
Hae - do you trust me?
Y/N - I do.
I looked up, giving her a firm nod of approval. She softly tucked her lips and gave me gentle eyes before taking her hand off of mine.
Hae - you're in later right?
Y/N - I am.
Hae - it's only two o clock. How about we all go out together?
Y/N - we could, but I really gotta clean up around her and maybe Jinae could use me for help with her homework, she's been really asking for help these days.
Hae - I can help her out too.
Y/N - okay, thank you then Haewon-ah.
Hae - no problem.
We both shared soft smiles, feeling relieved.
I'm happy I was able to be friends with her.
â-----
A long hour or so of washing the dishes and cleaning up around the place.
The living room was messy from the amount of toys on the floor.
My back ached a bit, my joints were sore, and I kept on rubbing my eyes.
I thought editing was hard but having to constantly take care and clean up the house, change the sheets, check for mould in the house.
Man, I'm really an adult now.
I would feel nostalgic about when Jinae was born and taking care of her in the first few years but I wouldn't want to dwell on it.
Most of it was spent with arguments between me and my parents back and forth.
Shaming me for being a single father at my ripe age of 19.
It breaks my heart that they weren't supportive.
I wasn't the one who walked out of Jinae's life and I took the responsibility to take care of her.
Day after day, arguments chose between putting her up for adoption or kicking me out of the house.
So I did them a favour, I left home.
Jinae in my arms, a couple of notes and savings in my account.
Working for anyone I could with the skills I only had.
Day and night at fast food places, restaurants.
With little time I had in between, I worked on editing as a freelancer.
And in that short amount of time, finally ending up at JYPe.
Saving for an apartment where we currently reside.
Beats crashing at my sister's house since she's so messy, but at this point what's the difference between hers and mine.
Finally getting the toys and stuff laid around back in order,
Entering Jinae's room where I laid my eyes to see Haewon at Jinae's little workstation which consisted of a small desk fit for her size and a couple of toys on it.
Y/N - hey you two. Whatcha up to?
Jinae turned her head, waving her pencil at me
Jinae - Haewon-unnie is helping me with my homework!
Squatting down beside her, holding her teddy bear in my other hand.
I caressed her hair, turning my neck to Haewon who smiled at me.
Y/N - is she doing a good job?
Without breaking contact, Haewon winked at me.
Jinae - Haewon-unnie is the best!
Hae - aw thank you Jinae, you're so sweet.
Finally then, she broke eye contact. Hugging Jinae from behind as they both giggled.
Hae - what do you want to do today when you're done with your homework?
Jinae - the zoo!
Y/N - the zoo?
Taking my hand off of her head, sitting down beside her on the wooden floor that slightly slid my butt a bit to the side.
Jinae - yeah! I want to see the pandas!
Y/N - the pandas? Are you sure? Maybe they'll just grab you
Jinae - ani! They would play with me! They're so big and furry!
Hae - papa is wrong isn't he? Pandas are nice!
Jinae - yeah!
I smiled, one side of my lips lifting slightly to see a heartwarming interaction.
Y/N - I guess I'm wrong, but sure, we'll go to the zoo okay?
Jinae - okay!
Y/N - but you finish your homework first then you, me and your Haewon-unnie will go out together to the zoo
Jinae - I'll do my homework really fast!
Hae - ani Jinae, we don't want to get any wrong answers do we?
Jinae - no!
Y/N - haha good girl
Leaning over to the top of her head, I kissed it before standing up and squatted right next to Haewon who was still looking at Jinae's paper.
My presence lingered around her for a few seconds, turning her head and giving me a confused look.
Hae - hm? What's up?
Y/N - nothing, just- uh-
I was feeling a little awkward, especially after last night.
We dove in so deep that, I can't shake the feeling about it.
Hae - do- do you want a kiss?
She whispered to me, not really sure on what face I should make.
Y/N - I- uhm- uh-
Giggling to herself, turning her entire body to face as she grabbed hold of my cheek with her hands.
Gently holding them.
Hae - you know, whatever you're feeling towards me since last night. I- I kind of feel the same
Y/N - kind of?
Hae - well maybe not really 'kind of' but- I just want to see you again more after this
Y/N - yeah, yeah. Me too.
Softly uttering to myself, we looked at each other fondly.
I took the initiative and leaned in, our eyes closing together.
Kissing her with full intent and feeling.
Before breaking off and opening our eyes again.
Seeing her blush a bit red, taking her hands off of my cheek.
Hae - will we regret this?
Y/N - I don't know. I don't think so.
Hae - let's- just keep it low for a while okay?
Y/N - yeah, yeah of course.
Smiling softly at her, patting her arm with my hand before I stood up once more and walked over to Jinae's bed.
Laying her teddy bear on the pillow and tucked it in
Y/N - goodnight little fella, she'll be back again tonight. Don't you worry.
Making the teddy nod with my hand, I laughed stupidly at myself for such an action before walking over to the front door, handle already in hand
Y/N - I'll be back. I'm gonna work some stuff out with my hard drive really quick
Hae - sure sure
Y/N - almost finished Jinae?
Jinae - ne!
Y/N - good to hear
Pressing down on the handle, my foot stepped outside and left the room.
Glad they're doing alright.
â-------
My hand gripped Jinae's softly, the three of us treading along the path.
Through a crowd of people along with their families.
I briefly glanced to the side of me, Haewon's hand with Jinae's on the other side.
Smiling softly before looking back straight.
Jinae - can we go see the pandas?
Y/N - Of course muffin, we're right around the corner.
Hae - don't worry Jinae-ah, we're close okay?
Jinae - okay!
Laughing softly at her adorable reaction, we walked more until Haewon struck up a conversation with me
Hae - it's nice out isn't it?
Y/N - pretty nice out despite it being a bit chilly
Hae - yeah. Busy too
Y/N - the pandas are all the rage these days in the zoo, I just want to see the gorillas
Hae - gorillas? I thought you'd be more of a reptile type of person
Y/N - they're cool but nothing beats the gorillas
Spouting nonsense noise, doing some gorilla noises and started to pound my chest making the both of them laugh
Jinae - papa's doing it again!
Hae - he loves doing that doesn't he?
Jinae - do some too unnie!
Hae - oh me?
Y/N - yeah do some with me
Seeming reluctant at first, she joined in with me for the sake of Jinae
Hae - oooooo
Pounding her chest too where I suddenly snickered at her
Y/N - pfft
Hae - yah!
Y/N - what? It's funny!
Hae - aish
Jinae - unnie?
Hae - yes Jinae?
Jinae - why don't you be mommy?
Hae - m- me? Mo- mommy?
Me and Haewon, our eyes out of shock.
Practically almost bulging out of its sockets hearing that coming from her. I mean, she could if she wanted to be, she's always around and Jinae really likes her.
Oh christ, what am I even saying?
Y/N - o- oh Jinae- y- you can't say to your Haewon-un- unnie
Jinae - but Haewon-unnie takes good care of me!
Hae - ye- yeah Jinae b- but-
Me and Haewon just didn't know what to say, or even how to react to it.
Y/N - d- do you want a mommy? Jinae-ah?
Jinae - yeah! I want to know what having a mommy is like! Everyone at school talks about theirs!
My heart hardened for a moment there.
Since the moment she could talk and walk, I never really told her the truth about her mother. How she walked out on us.
So I just said she just didn't have one.
I really don't know what to do when that time comes.
When she gets curious and old enough to ask where she's been.
I just wouldn't be able to give her an answer.
Hae - I-
Y/N - you don't have to Haewon.
Stopping in our tracks for a brief moment, Haewon squatted down.
Turning to her, caressing her hair.
Hae - do you really want one?
Jinae - yeah!
Pure innocence and blissfully unaware of what she had said, Haewon and my eyes connected for a moment.
Silent, but a moment of a glance asked a question towards each other.
But I initiated an understanding nod.
Hae - I- I know I- I don't know. Do you want me to be your unnie or mommy? Jinae?
Jinae - hmmmm you're like a mommy to me more
Y/N - you think so sweetie?
Jinae - mmhm
Hae - then, I can be your mommy okay? Me and your appa like each other very much and- I'll try to be around much for you a lot, okay?
Jinae - okay!
Smiling gracefully, Haewon leaned into Jinae, planting a kiss on her cheek.
Jinae swayed side to side, accepting the suddenness of the situation. But was quickly distracted by her head turning to look at the window from afar to see the pandas and pointed to it
Jinae - pandas!
Running off and Haewon's hand off of her head, I just crossed my arms watching her go
Y/N - don't run too far!
Jinae - ne!
Turning my body to Haewon, I walked up to her. Helping her up where we both looked on to watch Jinae, her face against the windows and happily laughing.
Y/N - that was- unexpected.
Hae - yeah.
Y/N - so, you're her mom now?
Hae - I'm sorry did you not want me to be?
Shaking my head, I could do nothing but softly smirk.
Y/N - no no, you did nothing wrong. Every child deserves a mother.
Sighing, my hand rested against her shoulder, caressing it.
Y/N - that was your decision to make and also mine. I just hope- you won't regret it.
Hae - me neither oppa.
Y/N - do you mean it?
Hae - about what?
Y/N - that you'll be around her more?
Hae - we've known each other long enough to know our relationship wasn't just always going to be a friendship forever oppa. I was either bound to like you already or you to me or just the both of us.
Y/N - I mean- since last night. I just can't stop thinking about you.
Hae - me too. I've been thinking about you for a long time though.
Y/N - you have?
Hae - it's hard to keep your eyes off someone who's so normal, and not another idol you know?
Y/N - yeah I guess I can understand that.
Hae - so then what are we?
Y/N - I don't know. Honestly. I don't know. But we can figure it out can we?
Hae - we can.
The both of us shared a soft moment, just stoic faces and trying to understand each other.
Y/N - for now, let's just. Let Jinae have her moment. We can talk about this later alright?
Hae - yeah, yeah of course. Should we play the part now?
Y/N - we did get in on a family discount right?
Hae - oh yeah we did
We both laughed, easing ourselves. Unknownst to her, my heart was racing.
Y/N - then, is it okay that at one point. It won't be a facade anymore?
Hae - yeah. I'd like that very much.
We both turned our heads simultaneously. Smiling at each other, our hands drifted towards each other.
Interlocking them together before we both leaned in, sharing a soft yet tender kiss before breaking off.
Y/N - well shit. Yeah, let's figure out what we are later.
Hae - way ahead of you. For now, let's just enjoy ourselves alright?
Y/N - yep.
Holding hands together, our hands gripped each other softly like a puzzle, still a bit loose but it still managed to fit in some way as we walked to Jinae still eyeing the pandas with pure joy on her face.
It felt different with Haewon.
Different in the way compared to when I first dated Jinae's mother.
That I could trust her.
â---------
Spending the remainder of the time with Haewon, holding each other's hands with awkward intent.
Our relationship or whatever it is still unknown to how ever we would label it by, it was still a somewhat enjoyable time.
Watching over Jinae and calling us out on our hand holding but was still keen to call her 'mom', she did say unnie once in a while but she had gotten used to saying it but I wouldn't blame her.
Now we were in the car, my eyes glancing at the rearview mirror to see her asleep in the back seat in her child car seat.
Her neck turned to the side like a doll which made me chuckle a bit to myself before glancing towards Haewon.
She has been quiet since we left the parking lot of the zoo, fidgeting with her fingers and an expression and possibly, her thought process confused.
Y/N - Haewon-ah, you okay?
Shaking out of her doting look at the dashboard, her neck turning to look at me, sprouting a soft smile.
Hae - I'm okay, oppa.
Y/N - you don't seem okay, s- sorry. Just, you're a bit quiet all of a sudden.
Hae - oh, yeah.
Y/N - it's all good. Just checking up on you.
Hae - n- no, I understand. It's just. Did I make a mistake?
Y/N - about earlier?
Hae - yeah with Jinae calling me mom.
Y/N - well, did you feel like it was a mistake?
Hae - yes... and no.
Y/N - break it down for me slowly, first. Yes, why?
Hae - because, being called mom is one, at my age. A bit weird and two, I'm an idol. I don't know if I could bear the responsibility.
Y/N - you don't have to all the time, I'm still around and my sister is too.
Hae - yeah but then there's 'no', where I just like- to be around. Especially you and- *sighs*
She taps her knuckles against the dashboard, trying to focus around her thoughts.
Hae - It's a lot oppa. God- I just said it in the moment I think.
Y/N - are you certain that you believe that?
Hae - yes? No? I don't- know.
Y/N - how do you feel about it overall? I'm not trying to sound like a therapist but, I just want to see how you're feeling.
Hae - can I just be really honest?
Y/N - sure, you won't hurt my feelings or anything. An honest person is someone you can trust deeply
Hae - where'd you get that from?
Y/N - I don't know, just thought about it now.
Hae - you're not wrong- b- but anyways. I want to try it. Sure I may be a bit busy with idol stuff and going on variety shows and doing guest appearances and hosting but I- I guess I want to try it. Really. And I like being around you and Jinae, it sounds stupid to you but I don't know what I'll be after I'm done being an idol.
Y/N - maybe tutoring trainees? Have you thought about sticking in the entertainment industry?
Hae - I don't know oppa. Maybe. I don't know. But one thing for sure, you make me feel normal which isn't a bad thing because all we need as idols is normalcy.
Y/N - I understand that.
Hae - but- *sighs* Maybe that normalcy is what I need. You make me feel normal already away from all of the flashing lights and cameras.
Y/N - Am I just that to you?
Hae - no, of course not. There's everything else aside from that towards you from me.
Y/N - then, I don't have to tell you that you don't have to. It is your choice and whatever it is at the end of the day, like you said earlier. We'll figure it out.
Hae - together?
Y/N - yeah, if that's what you would want.
Hae - it is.
Y/N - then together it is.
We both softly smiled, my feet shuffling to hit the brake slowly as we drove up to Ji-woo's booth.
We've arrived at the building and the first thing I did was push the button to lower the window to greet the man himself
Y/N - hey how's it going?
Ji-woo - hello there Y/N, Miss Haewon too
Turning my neck to Haewon, she waves at him, softly laughing.
Hae - Hello Ji-woo-ssi
Ji-woo - carpooling again?
Y/N - yeah, my daughter is in the back but she's fast asleep
Ji-woo - oh really?
His head turned to the backseat, smiling before looking back at the both of us
Ji-woo - she looks a lot like you
Y/N - she got lucky, if I have some time later and your break is at nine right?
Ji-woo - yes it is
Y/N - I'll introduce her to you, she's very friendly and she won't be shy
Ji-woo - quite opposite in personality like you Y/N
Y/N - ah well, Haewon's been around my place a lot to give her that friendliness
Hae - me and Y/N are close like that Ji-woo-ssi
Ji-woo - hehehe glad to see you girls can still make friends without all that internet smuck or whatever
Y/N - Sana still hasn't taught you how to use a phone yet?
Ji-woo - ah you know her, she's a busy girl. Rarely comes by anymore since she's always travelling
Hae - she'll come around eventually
Ji-woo - she's still lovely as ever haha, hasn't changed a bit. Anyways, I won't keep you two long. Door's already open for you
Y/N - thank you Ji-woo, I'll see you later alright?
Hae - bye bye Ji-woo-ssi!
Ji-woo - you kids have fun
We both waved at him goodbye as I drove inside and found my usual parking spot, before reversing and parking in it.
Y/N - well, so. Do we bring her to the room or?
Hae - yeah it's on our floor so, you can come see her every once in a while
Y/N - the girls still there?
Turning to Haewon, she nodded before we both turned behind us to look at Jinae, still sound asleep.
Hae - yep, shou- should- we wake her up?
Y/N - you or me?
Hae - the both of us
Y/N - uhhhhhhh
Hae - I think it'll be fine.
Y/N - sure, uhm- let's just get out of our seats first and we'll go around.
Hae - okay okay
Unbuckling our seatbelts, we opened the side of our doors in sync where I stepped out onto the floor, before closing it and walking around the car.
Haewon already opened it, my hand resting on top of the car hood since she leaned in further enough to unbuckle Jinae's seatbelt
Y/N - Jinae~~~ sweetie, we're here~~
Hae - Jinae-ah~~ wakey wakey
Her soft snores slowly turned into an open yawn, opening her eyes where she looked around confused.
Jinae - hmmhmm~~?
Haewon had her hands on her, Jinae instinctively wrapping her arms around Haewon's neck before listing her out of the seat, myself closing the door and locking the car at the same time.
Y/N - sweetie we're just gonna spend some time here okay? For work
Jinae - mama and papa's work?
Hae - yeah that's right, and you're gonna meet my friends okay?
Jinae - mmhm
She was still asleep, her head slightly nodding every few words before resting her head on Haewon's shoulder.
Haewon's arm supported her while we walked. My duty was to open the doors for her and make sure that she didn't feel burdened while carrying her.
Y/N - you alright?
Hae - of course
In front of us was an elevator, we called it in and once it opened.
Stepped inside and waited.
Y/N - you think the girls will be alright with this?
Hae - oh yeah for sure, they love kids.
Y/N - how are we gonna explain about you know- her calling you mom?
Hae - they'll understand
Y/N - I hope they do.
A comfortable silence sat between us for a bit till the elevator doors finally opened where I stepped out first, my hand in between the doors letting them pass through.
Y/N - lead the way, I still don't know where the rooms are.
She laughed softly stepping out, letting the door close before walking along beside her.
Making our way to the practice room, opening the door for her.
Immediate turns of curiosity came from the girls inside, who for the first time.
I've seen them in person.
"Hm?"
Closing the door behind us, glancing for a moment to see Haewon's proud smile before turning to face them walking over to us
Hae - hey girls
? - unnie, hello!
I bowed at them, saying hello. They bowed back doing the same, where one of them spoke up
? - unnie wait. So you weren't joking?
Hae - me? No of course not! Uhm- Y/N?
Saying my name softly, turning my neck to her. I faced back to them where I think I should introduce myself
Y/N - uhm- annyeong. L/N Y/N imnida, I'm your video editor that does your content
? - oh you're THE L/N Y/N!
Y/N - y- yeah that's me
I was a bit awkward, given I don't have many people around to really talk to and Haewon was just one of them.
It's been a while since I've done this.
I think it's been since I came to the company when I introduced myself to Sajangnim and meeting other staff.
Actually shit, I've never been to one of those after work hang out things that the employees do since I'm always holed up inside the editor room.
Hae - girls, how about you introduce yourselves to him? He's only seen you through the screen so this is a good idea before I introduce this little muffin in my arms right now.
One of them walked up to me, a big smile on her face and a sort of mischievous energy around her
? - Annyeong! I'm Jang Kyujin! Nice to meet you!
Y/N - hello Kyujin-ssi
Kyujin - that makes me feel old
Hae - he's much older than all of us here actually
? - how old?
Y/N - I'm twenty four
They all 'oooo' at the same time before another one of them stepped beside me.
I already know all of their names and stuff and I know who's who but it's a given for at least a formal introduction.
? - hello! I'm Kim Jiwoo!
Y/N - hello Jiwoo-ssi.
I kept on awkwardly bowing, the two of them just standing in front of me a few feet back just, smiling.
Hae - Yoona-ah, what about you next?
There went another where she bowed and waved at me shyly
? - hello I'm Seol Yoona
The both of us awkwardly softly smiling, another one came up a bit more energetic
? - hi! I'm Bae Jinsol!
Y/N - h- hi Jinsol-ssi
Yeah, it was getting a bit awkward in the air, I can feel it.
And lastly, was the one I've always tethered to the most. Since given I do edit all of their content, I found her to be most relatable.
Walking up to me with a shy yet confident walk, we both bowed.
? - I'm Lily Jin Park Morrow, but call me Lily. I pr- prefer that
Y/N - uhm- hello Lily.
Facing all of them, looking at them together, I bowed once more.
Y/N - it's- uhm- nice to meet all of you together for the first time.
Hae - you're a bit stiff oppa.
Y/N - y- yeah.
Bae - question?
Y/N - yeah?
Bae - how does it feel? Since we never really got to meet each other?
Y/N - well- it's nice to know who I've been staring at all this time through a screen. Uhm- I already knew all of your names and such but it it is nice to meet you though
Hae - and there he goes again, girls you don't have to be shy with him. We're taking care of his daughter after all
We all turned to her, Haewon's smile on her face ever so confident and full
Jiwoo - that's your daughter Y/N-ssi?
Y/N - oh- oh yes it is. Uhm- she's asleep right now as you can tell.
Yoona - how old is she?
Y/N - five- five years old
Kyujin - oooo- wait? Aren't you twenty four?
Y/N - y- yeah. L- long story.
Hae - you don't have to oppa.
Y/N - it's fine. I'll save it for next time if- if there is.
Lily - well, I hope we get to meet each other more often after this
Y/N - me too. Uhm-
Hae - trust me, it'll be a lot more since uh- also a long story with me and him
Yoona - eh? Unnie you sound like you did something
Hae - wellllllllll
Kyujin's face lit up in a joking sarcastic way, putting her hands on her cheeks in a shocked expression with Jiwoo joining her
Kyujin - did you and Y/N-ssi?!
Hae - NO! No- of course not- it's a bit complicated
Kyujin - we're messing with you unnie, but- how do you know him?
Bae - you've been really going out a lot. Where were you last night again?
Hae - at his place remember?
They all looked at each other with understanding nods before they turned to me
Yoona - so you really are the friend she goes on about
Y/N - oh, does she talk about me often?
Hae - gir-
Lily - she talks about how she annoys you constantly so she can see if that's enough to make you fall for her
Y/N - o- oh.
Hae - Lily! I-
Turning my head to Haewon, she was a bit blush from embarrassment given that her own members just exposed her.
Y/N - oh- that's fun information I guess. Bu- but-
Jiwoo - right! How do you know Haewon-unnie?
Hae - before we get on with the story, let's sit on the couch first
Kyujin and Jiwoo looked at each other, smirking.
Kyujin - race you there first
Jiwoo - ani!
They both ran past me, Bae joining in as well as Sullyoon, where I think I should call her that since it is her stage name after all and I don't think I'm at a level where I should call her by her real name yet.
Alongside Lily walked up to me, my eyes on them
Sully - don't mind them, they're like that usually
Lily - just be careful if they grab a hold of you for something, it's usually for some mischief or chaos
Y/N - it's okay, I'm aware. I do edit your videos
Sully - alrighty
They both walked past me, leaving me with Haewon both standing up.
Stepping close to me almost shoulder to shoulder
Hae - first impression?
Y/N - do you think they like me?
My lips slightly moving to the side without breaking my current expression
Hae - yeah, will take some time
Y/N - to be fair though, it'll take a while
Hae - it didn't take you long with me
Y/N - that's because you barged into my life not walked in like a normal person
She laughed softly, patting my back
Hae - yep.
We both walked over to the group, standing in front of them.
Jiwoo - sit down unnie and Y/N-ssi!
Y/N - no no I'm alright, sat down enough driving here
Hae - wait Jiwoo-ah, I'm still holding Jinae
Kyujin - is that her name?
Bae - who named her?!
Y/N - uh- uhhhh-
Me and Haewon shot a look whether or not to tell them but we just understood to just lie from a single brain cell just connecting to each other
Y/N - I did
Bae - oooo
Sully - tell us the story, please don't mind them Y/N-ssi
Y/N - well-
Their ears perked up, ready to listen as Haewon brushed Jinae's bangs to the side.
Y/N - about how me and Haewon met right?
They responded with a yes, my eyes darted around the room for a bit before finally speaking up.
Y/N - we met around, December if I remember?
Hae - that's right
Y/N - and it was I think, she was told to introduce herself to me
Bae - was that because Sajangnim forced you to, unnie?
Hae - that's right, since he was new and he would taking care of all our content so as the very beautiful and responsible leader, I did it
Everyone lifts up an eyebrow to her where Haewon just strikes out of her joking ways, getting humbled in just an action.
Hae - okay. Miahne.
They all laughed softly, myself continuing on.
Y/N - yeah she did though. She knocked on my door and I was in the middle of the editing room, setting up for the first time
Hae - you don't remember how you stumbled over your own bag as I walked in?
Y/N - I do
Softly laughing, thinking about the memory about it
Y/N - it was a bit awkward to say the least, we shared some formalities. The usual and we just got to talking right?
Hae - you brought up something about how you didn't know us at all and I just explained to you and showed you our music and us.
Y/N - yeah, so I mean- not really an exciting story but that's how we first met
The girls were silently listening before Kyujin booed at me
Kyujin - booooo that's how it goes?
Bae - I thought Haewon-unnie was gonna be like her usual self
Lily - I thought it was nice Y/N-ssi
Sully - it wasn't meant to be exciting Kyujin-ah
Jiwoo - booooo!
Me and Haewon both laugh, seeing them react like that. Immediately arguing over each other while Sullyoon and Lily sat quiet.
Hae - alright alright that's enough, we can't keep him too long here.
They all looked to Haewon, getting their attention.
Lily - oh right, you mentioned he has to work
Y/N - yep
Hae - we're just going to be taking care of Jinae over here like I said. He trusts me enough and you all really did show up
Bae - I didn't have anything to do
Jiwoo - me neither
Kyujin - I was cleaning everyone's rooms.
Lily - I was just reading but I'd help you out anytime Haewon-ah
Sully - oh- you know me.
Hae - that's good enough for me
Putting my hands in my pockets, nodding at them
Y/N - well- I gotta go so-
Before taking out a hand and pointing at the door, they all understood.
Bae - but, before you go Y/N-ssi.
Y/N - yes? Uhm- should I call you Bae or Jinsol?
Bae - either is fine
Y/N - right, Jinsol. Yes?
Bae - do we have to know anything about Jinae before we continue on?
Y/N - oh uhm-
Hae - don't worry about it, I can tell you everything.
Y/N - yeah she can. Listen, I really gotta go. I have do your next 'mixx log'
Kyujin - is it mine?!!?
Y/N - yes, yours and Jiwoo's
Jiwoo - aw nice!
Sully - do we get spoilers for the video since we know you now?
Y/N - if you come around then yeah sure.
Sullyoon softly nodded, smiling a bit. My hands gripped my bag strap, looking at the door since I really had to go
Hae - go on oppa, it's fine.
Y/N - cool. Uhm- thank you girls for taking the time to take care of Jinae, it means a lot
Lily - no problem, we just hope you can get some work done
Kyujin - edit me with some cool stuff!
Y/N - will do
Tucking my lips in, giving them fingers gun before walking to the door
Turning my neck to look at Haewon, smiling as they waved at me goodbye as I did the same.
Where she shot me a reassuring look before heading out.
â----
Oh man, it's like-
My phone was on the table facing down. My hand reached for it as I picked it up
Nine PM, 3 hours of work. Jeez, and I gotta do Lily's 'Re-mixx' next.
Putting my hands over my face, I heard a knock on my door.
Making me turn around in my chair.
Y/N - Haewon?! Is that you?!?
Sully - ani, it's just me
Y/N - oh shit
Muttering that to myself, my hands lifted me up from the chair handles.
Standing up, before walking over to the door and opening it.
Revealing Sullyoon, her hands are full of the cafeteria's tray with some food in it.
Y/N - hello there Yoona
Sully - h- hi there Y/N-ssi.
Y/N - come in, uhm- just- make yourself comfortable.
Letting her walk in, her eyes scanned the room before letting out a surprised gasp
Sully - I've never been in here before
Y/N - oh? First time?
Sully - yeah
Closing the door, she faced me where I had a genuine question
Y/N - Do I call you Yoona too like Jinsol or just Sullyoon?
Sully - Yoona is fine Y/N-ssi.
Y/N - okay okay cool, what's with the tray?
Her eyes focused on the food before looking back at me
Sully - it's for you.
Y/N - for me?
Sully - yeah. I- I figured since it's been a while, you might've been hungry and everyone else is still taking care of Jinae for you
Y/N - oh right right, I almost forgot
Smacking my forehead with the palm of my hand, it got a laugh out of her
Y/N - before we get to talking, you can set the tray on my table. It's alright, you won't undo anything
Sully - okay okay
She turned around, gently setting the tray on the desk. Thankfully the desk was wide so it was nowhere close to my gear.
Myself walked over to the chair, where she sat on the couch. I spun around, facing her
Y/N - how's my little girl?
Softly laughing, she gave me a enthusiastic thumbs up
Sully - she's very energetic, friendly too. Everyone's really liking her and she's very attached to Haewon-unnie
Y/N - ah, Haewon's been around my place long enough that Jinae considers her a part of the family
Sully - o- oh right- yeah I forgot. Why does she call Haewon-unnie Mom?
Y/N - long story, but- I guess. Uhm- it's more of a personal thing
Sully - are you and her dating?
Y/N - no, not at all
Sully - so- why?
Y/N - uhm- again, it's a more personal thing
Sully - I won't dig into it Y/N-ssi, I apologise
Y/N - no it's alright, you didn't do anything wrong. It's just- her mother left me and her right after she had her.
Sully - oh...
Y/N - so it's been a long 5 years, just me and her. So- she needs a mother figure you know? And Haewon wanted to fill in that role. Usually it's just me, Jinae and my older sister but. She just needs someone to look up to other than me.
Sully - are you and Haewon-unnie really that close?
Y/N - yeah, I guess you can say that.
Sully - that's surprising really
Y/N - oh is it?
Sully - yeah, she's usually very dedicated to what we do. She's never really told us about you or Jinae before, so that means you're different to her.
Y/N - yeah yeah, I guess so then.
Sully - you had her when you were 19 then?
Y/N - yeah, just something I didn't expect and- I don't see it in a bad way. I love her very much, and I wouldn't change a thing about it. Sure, it may have been somewhat a mistake from me and her mother's part but, she wasn't. I don't want her to feel that way because I love her more than anything.
Sully - you sound like a great father Y/N-ssi.
Y/N - I'm trying, we're practically almost similar in age right?
Sully - I'm 21, so close.
Y/N - yeah, when I was 21. I was still trying to figure out how to be a father. And I think, I've got the hang of it?
Sully - I think you do Y/N-ssi.
Y/N - I hope I have. How was your time with her though? Personally, actually.
Sully - so she's so adorable, she really likes to play a lot and we taught her some of those yard games, you know the ones you play with your friends in school back in preschool and kindergarten
Y/N - aww that's nice.
Sully - and she made me a paper flower. We were teaching her how to make one since we thought it would be nice that she could make you one too
Y/N - don't tell her you told me
We both shared a laugh, till she pointed to my tray.
Sully - it's going to get cold
Y/N - right.
Sully - we'll be leaving soon at around 10 since we have activities on tomorrow but I just wanted to ask you.
Y/N - yeah?
Sully - is it fine that you bring her over often? It's nice for a change
Y/N - sure of course, I do need the extra help and if it's not of a burden
Sully - no no, it's not. We do need that change, and- it's a bit much to ask but
Y/N - yeah?
Sully - given you're friends with Haewon-unnie, you can bring her to our dorm too. Some of us are sometimes free enough after schedules that we're there.
Y/N - oh really?
Sully - yeah, unless she has school, you know
Y/N - no no of course. I think she would love that. I'm always in here and your dorm is close to the building right?
Sully - yes it's about 20 minutes away?
Y/N - then that's fine. I can trust you guys too, really. You're my employers and- I just like having more people to be acquaintances with
Sully - we can be friends Y/N-ssi, I need more of that honestly
Y/N - sure then, Yoona we can be friends.
Sully - does that mean I can come in here and hide away from everyone when I need it?
Y/N - oh yeah absolutely, I don't get distracted easily. I'll say hi and the conversation but I'll won't be heavily deviate since I really got to get work done
Sully - I understand, you are our editor after all
Y/N - yeah.
She stood up, brushing her butt from the couch where she bowed at me as I bowed back
Sully - then, I'll see you Y/N-ssi
Y/N - you too Yoona, and thank you for the food too
Sully - no problem.
Watching her walk to the door, we shared a glance. Softly smiling before she left.
I turned back around in my chair to the food, moving to that side more too as my stomach grumbled.
Let's get this last piece of work done shall we?