Winter Tangerines (IU x SUGA)

Forty (part 1)

"I'll do it. I will sing the song."

The trio still stood still, surprised expressions fixed on their face. Few seconds passed and finally, the words Jieun had said sank in.

"On one condition."

Their happiness was put into halt. Jieun was enjoying her view.

Yijeong didn't waste any second asking. "Anything for you, Jieunie. What is it? What's the condition?"

"Yoongi has to sing it with me."

Yijeong and Beomgyu both turned to face Yoongi who was already furrowing his eyebrows.

"What?! Why me?"

"Because I won and it's part of my prize."

"No. That's unfair!"

"What's unfair, Yoongi? It's clear from the very beginning. Whoever wins will decide what to do with the song."

"But—"

"Come on, Yoongi. Just say yes." Yijoung begged. He had no idea whether it's a good decision or not, but if that's what it will take for Jieun to sing, then he'll give his bestfriend his full support.

Jieun stood beside Yoongi, resting her back on one of the computer game machines. "Yoongi, I gave up singing a long time ago. This won't be easy for me. This song...it's very special for me, but I'm not the same girl that I was years ago. I already lost that confidence I used to have. If I would have to sing it, I have to do it with somebody."

Yoongi took a deep breath. "But Jieunie, there are many artists who can sing with you. Why would you choose me? I'm just a producer."

"You helped me finish the song. It wouldn't be very special without your beautiful words and music. I can't just let anybody sing it knowing I can make you do it." Jieun gently took Yoongi's hand and held it tightly. "Yoongi, please, sing with me."

Yoongi was flustered with the lady's sudden move. A hint of pink hue covered his cheeks which he tried to conceal by bowing his head.

"Come on, hyung. Please sing with noona. Don't worry, we'll be cheering for you. We'll help you with everything." Beomgyu was also pleading. He was smiling soflty at his sister who was still waiting for Yoongi to say something.

Yoongi couldn't even think what to say knowing Jieun's hands were holding him. He slowly let go of her hand and walked back and forth at the small space, trying to clear his mind.

"Okay." He finally answered in a very low voice. "Let me fix the song later. I'll add my part."

Jieun's eyes sparkled with Yoongi's answer. She gathered the three men and tried hugging them. Yijeong and Beomgyu happily hugged back. Yoongi was again surprised, but he let their hugs comfort him. He was never ready for this plot twist in his life.

—

The day after their arcade visit, Jieun decided to head to the office. It's Sunday, but her mind seemed to be looking for something to do, so she asked Beomgyu to keep her company. The latter agreed, in one condition: food.

At five in the afternoon, Beomgyu was starting to get sleepy. He must have gotten tired of consuming slices of pizza which Jieun ordered upon her brother's request.

"Noona, can I take a quick nap? You're busy anyway."

"Aish you spoiled kid! You know you shouldn't sleep when you're full."

"I'm not full. I only ate four slices."

"Whatever."

"Oh, by the way noona, Yoongi hyung is at his studio. I saw him there when I picked up the pizza."