Twisted Rope

Pinnacle

Park Hyun-ki walked towards Jeong-hyeok's and Seri's suite, feeling a little apprehensive. He had spent the day on his own exploring the city, which had felt like a welcome break after the stressful, anxious day before. He had heard nothing from Jeong-hyeok, and he hadn't tried to message either. Last night it had seemed that both Jeong-hyeok and Seri were happy to be back together again, and he hoped that the time alone today would help them address their issues, whatever they were. He hoped so, but he recognised it might not be so simple. Maybe it would take longer. Perhaps. But he desperately hoped they hadn't argued or upset each other all over again.

He knocked on their door and Jeong-hyeok came to it, jacket in hand, ready to go.

"Seri is having a nap. She's still jet lagged by the time difference." He looked far more relaxed and happy than he had been all the time in the States.

"Well, it's good to see you looking happy," said Hyun-ki. "Does this mean you and Seri have ironed things out?" he asked hopefully.

"Yes, I think we have," he said as they walked down the corridor. "Thank you for being such a good friend the last few weeks. I don't think I could have got through this tour without you. I'm sorry I've been such bad company, though."

"That's what friends are for. I'm just pleased it's sorted." They walked on. Thank goodness, he thought to himself. Maybe some good had come out of that dreadful day.

"So, are you feeling better about tonight's concert? I've had a lot of good feedback about last night's."

"Yes, much better. I feel as if I'm on top of everything now. I'm in control again."

"Good, I'm so pleased."

It seemed to Hyun-ki that Jeong-hyeok had regained his air of self-confidence too. Naturally tall, he could appear striking, but he had back the self-possession that made it seem as if he could take on anything. It was one of the things that made him such an excellent performer. It boded well for tonight's concert and the future.

They had reached the lift and Hyun-ki pressed the button. It opened straight away, and they got in. It was empty.

"Now, something that might interest you," he said as they descended the many floors. "Jack Stein has approached me, the New York Times feature writer. He was at the concert last night and loved it. So, he would like to do a feature on you. He's planning to come to the concert again tonight, and if you're happy to be introduced to him, we can invite him to the reception afterwards."

Jeong-hyeok was interested.

"New York Times sounds like a good opportunity. And I'm pretty sure I've read some of his stuff. Hasn't he written some biographies too? Yes, I'd like to meet him at least."

"Good, we'll see what he proposes and go from there."

They had reached the lobby, and the car was waiting for them. As they drove to the hall, Jeong-hyeok looked out of the window, smiling to himself. Hyun-ki glanced at him and smiled, too. He clearly was so much happier.

"I might play something different for the final encore," said Jeong-hyeok suddenly.

"Oh, really?" Hyun-ki was surprised. Jeong-hyeok didn't normally switch anything around at the last minute.

"What were you thinking of playing?"

"Something special, for Seri. I haven't quite decided. Maybe I'll see how I feel at the time."

"Oh ok. Well, you know best."

"I feel as if I could play anything tonight. I'm glad this is the last performance, though. I'd like to finish on a high."