Kiss & Clientele

Chapter Six

Chapter Six
In her 32 years of life, Nora had never been so happy to wake up and go to work.  The next four days would be taxing, non-stop filming and photoshoots would consume nearly every waking hour.  However, just knowing that Jisung would be there made it feel exciting.  He wasn't the only incentive to get her through the week.  96 hours was all that separated them from a private, snowy escape to Colorado.  She looked forward to treating her clients to a well-earned vacation, as well as escaping from the corporate world for a few days.
   It was hard to remember the version of her that had arrived in Seoul a matter of weeks ago.  That woman, who dreaded just being in the same room as the idols, was now looking forward to being trapped in a cabin with them for almost a week.  Though she would never dare say it out loud, she had begun to see them all as something more than clients.  Breaking every one of Ava's rules, she had begun to uncover the buried artifacts of who she actually was and what she really wanted out of life.  Her career was still very important to her but having laid in the grass on the other side, she remembered that there was more to life than a job.  Still, she wanted to keep her position at HYPE and prevent the boys from getting in any sort of trouble.
   Waiting in line to pick up their morning coffee run, Nora reminisced on the past 24 hours.  After years of watching rom-coms and k-dramas, she never expected that her life would turn into one.  A handsome k-pop idol becomes intertwined with his American manager as they embark on a whirlwind romance.  As with any good drama, there were secrets and difficulties that awaited them, but the thrill and joy of it all made it worth enduring.  9 weeks had passed of her feeling the magnetic pull of their attraction, but it dawned on her that she didn't know all that much about him.  He definitely didn't know much about Nora, seeing as all he ever dealt with was the rigidity of Halston.  Yet, he still wanted her.  He seemingly broke through the cold exterior to see the version of herself hidden under the ice.  When she spoke, he more than listened, he acted upon it.  Even when she was drunk and rambling about Namsan, he listened and took her despite his own disliking of the tourist trap.  It was possible that this was more than the thrill of a forbidden affair.
   When the barista called out her order number, she was launched back into the present.  With 9 cups of coffee and a bag full of gilgeori, she loaded her car and made her way back to the apartment.  At the back entrance, 7 bodies stood by the black Mercedes van.  Before she could put the vehicle in park, Felix and I.N were standing by the passenger door and ready to help.  As she stepped out, the Aussie greeted her and tried to sneak a kiss on the cheek.  The other laughed and mocked his effort when the manager dodged it like a pro athlete. 
"Where's Changbin?"  Nora asked when joining the group by the vehicle.  As they passed out the drinks and sandwiches, she saw Jisung from the corner of her eye.  It felt wrong to deny her urge to go to him, to tell him good morning, and burrow her way into his arms.  Coming to collect his breakfast, he strode by her and let his fingers graze across her hand in the passing.  It was enough to confirm that he too wished their greeting could be different.
"He's still working out."  Seungmin called out, always the faithful informant.  Placing her bag and coffee in the van, she stormed back into the building.  She tore through the lobby, down the side corridor, and nearly kicked down the door to the on-site gym.  Laying on a bench, weight held above his head, Changbin was oblivious to her presence.  As soon as the barbell had been placed back on its stand, she swooped in and took him by the shirt.
"Wallstreet, what the fu-"  He yelped as if she had hit him.  His stares of disdain felt as if they could burn holes through her flesh.
"Where's your bags?" 
"You're really on one this morning."  He growled.  When she stopped, forcing him to stand toe-to-toe with her, he could see his own willpower and stubbornness reflected back.
"I'm only going ask this once more before-"
"Chan took them down for me."  Rolling his eyes, he went from angst to pouting.  "Why are you being so bossy right now?"  He tried to squirm away, but her grip remained affixed to his black prada tee.
"I'm always bossy, let's go."  Resuming their journey, she could hear him sighing and grumbling the entire way.
"The nerve of this woman. Who interrupts a workout like that? Now she's forcing me to leave without a shower..."  His agitating mumbling didn't stop when they returned and joined the others.  Changbin simply jumped in the vehicle and continued to sulk from the very back seat.
   Climbing in after him, she sifted through her oversized Valentino tote before throwing a pack of cleansing wipes back.  The remaining members joined them and settled in for the three hour ride.  This van was much bigger and nicer than their normal one, and allowed the manager to sit by herself at the very front.  Chan and Felix made their way to the back to console the fussy rapper while Jeongin and Hyunjin chose the seats in front of them.  Seungmin stretched out on the next seat, preventing anyone from bugging him.  Lee Know and Han, the inseparable duo, wound up directly behind Nora.  Shortly after being seated her phone dinged from the depths of her bag.  Digging to find it, she chased after the slight glow coming from the very bottom.
Jisung [7:01am]: Good morning.
Seeing the message brought the sappiest smile to her face, making her cheeks warm instantly.  Another notification popped up before she had a chance to respond.  Tapping on the banner, it opened to reveal a selfie of seatmates.  Han looked out the window while Minho very accurately portrayed disgust.  Sunk down in the seat, Nora did her best to discreetly take a photo of herself.  After multiple attempts she was able to take one that didn't make her cringe.  Head against the window with eyes closed, it looked like she was sleeping. 
N. Halston [7:05am]: Good Morning! Super tired, up late last night. You?
Jisung [7:06am]: Hot date kept you out last night?
Jisung [7:06am]: Lucky guy...
N. Halston [7:07am]: It was worth it, he's great. I think you'd really like him.
Jisung [7:07am]: Mmm, I dunno. What's he like?
N. Halston [7:10am]: He's talented, thoughtful, too funny for his own good. He has a flaw though...
Jisung [7:11am]: But is he handsome? You're too pretty to be with some average dude.
Jisung [7:11am]: Oh, a flaw? What is it? Sociopath, lizard person, a Bieber fan?
N. Halston [7:13am]: He's very handsome, but also an addict.
Jisung [7:13am]: OMG WHAT?
N. Halston [7:13am]: Yep, a cheesecake fiend. He can't get enough of the stuff.
Jisung [7:14am]: That's a serious addiction. You should run while you can!
They went back and forth for what felt like forever before it abruptly ended.  She wasn't bothered by the conversation's sudden stop..  In the window she saw a small reflection of Jisung, head hanging down and eyes shut.  It was no surprise that he had fallen asleep.  The ability to instantly pass out anytime he got quiet and still was one of his most frequently used skills.  Turning to check on the others, she came to find that she and Chan were the only passengers still awake.  The quiet and calm made it feel like the perfect opportunity to finalize their New Years Eve event.
      When asked what they wanted to do on their retreat, the group was full of suggestions.  The top request was snow activities; skiing, tubing, and boarding ranking the highest.  The more introverted of the bunch saw the retreat as an opportunity to relax, catch up on shows, and delve into their art.  Being the furthest thing from athletics, Nora had arranged for a private coach to guide and oversee the thrill seekers. 
   For their end of year celebration, she wanted to make it special.  Most of the members had never been to a New Years party and she wanted to give them as much of the New York experience as she could.  Changbin, always looking to impress, suggested they make it a black tie affair.  The feedback was unanimously in support of the idea.  Though they often dressed up for appearances and performances, it was rare that they got to choose their own look.
   To accompany the fancy attire, Nora hired a personal chef who specialized in authentic Italian cuisine.  As they celebrated throughout the night there would be hourdevous and desserts as well as plenty of soju and beer, though it would be strongly monitored until after the special vlive appearance.  She knew they would love ringing in the new year with their fans, but she wished that they could have the evening to themselves.  Even she had originally planned not to participate, but when the guys found out they nearly rioted.  Their insistence warmed her heart and gave her an excuse to shop for a dress.
   It came as a surprise when the van suddenly parked in front of what appeared to be a farm.  The small white house stood before miles of pastures and crop fields.  It was the first time that something in Korea had felt familiar.  Ushering the group off the van, she followed the itinerary and escorted them into the home.  They were all taken aback when crossing the threshold and finding a fairly modern layout.  The sleek architecture and massive windows indicated that it was a new build, but it had been decorated to feel cozy and rustic.  In the main living area, makeup chairs and portable styling stations had been set up amongst the home's furniture.  The business and sea of bodies nearly made her miss the stunning yellowy-tan leather couches and deep brown craftsman tables.  Taking a second to observe her surroundings, she noticed the space was full of eclectic art pieces. 
   As each member settled in, the transformation process began and Nora wandered through the living room, into the kitchen, and out the backdoor.  Crew members rushed around her as they set up chairs, trendy large-bulb string lights, and even a fire pit.  Cameras and additional lighting were being tested to ensure perfect filming for the evening.  Passing through the set up, she meandered over to a fence where she had spotted goats.  Many of them curiously trotted over to meet her, bleating as she crouched down to meet their gaze.  A brown and white kid pushed through the herd maa'ing loudly, bouncing and launching itself off it's elders.  Wrangling the phone from her pocket, she recorded the baby's antics.  When one of the nannies butted back, scolding him for his rude behavior, the young goat screamed and  toppled over dramatically.  Stifling her laughter, she sent the video to Jisung.
N. Halston [12:02pm]: Remind you of anyone?
Knowing he was in work-mode she hadn't expected such a prompt response.  When the notification popped up on the screen a smile unknowingly bloomed upon her face.  She hurried to view his reply.
Jisung [12:06pm]: Changbin said he's very offended that you would make that comparison ;)
After petting as many goats as she could, Nora headed back inside to check on her clients. 
   The groggy, rag-tag group of guys that she had shown up with were nowhere to be found.  They had been replaced by perfectly coiffed, model-esq men who happened to share a resemblance.  Not only were their clothes clean, but they were highly detailed designer outfits that had been custom tailored to fit them immaculately.  Felix sauntered over and stood by her side.  The wild, blonde mane had been smoothed and pristinely positioned to frame his face. 
"Hi." He whispered, nudging her side softly. "Sorry about this morning."  Not expecting an apology, her eyes darted over to meet his.  Noticing his eyes were now blue, she craned backwards momentarily.  The colored contact lenses muted the light in his eyes and made him appear animatronic.  He was the most gorgeous automaton she had ever seen.
"What? Why?"  She responded, baffled.  Even with all the makeup, she could still see his face flush.
"For what I said last night and trying to kiss you this morning."  Though they were alone in the back of the room, and their voices were hushed, she still looked at him fearfully.  "I'm not mic'd yet, don't worry."  His attentiveness and ability to read others had always impressed her.
"It's okay, I know you don't mean anything by it."
"But I did..."  His voice trailed off as his eyes became affixed to the floor.  "You're pretty and easy to be around, Ms. H. It's hard not to have a crush on you."  The confession almost sent her tumbling backwards.  Her feelings and affections belonged to someone else, but she found herself wishing she could share them with him too.  The right words were hard to find and the two of them stood in silence for quite some time before the Aussie spoke again.  "I won't do anything to come between you and Hannie, you have my support."  She placed a hand on his shoulder and gently squeezed. 
"Thank you."  Her words were quiet but when he smiled she knew he'd heard it.  As he moved away to join the others, her hand fell from atop his shoulder.
   Just before 3pm the members were seated strategically in the living area, the stylized art and furniture serving as a backdrop.  Each of them were given a headset and checked once more to ensure everything was in place.  Going one by one, Nora checked each of them to make sure they matched the pre-planned vision.  For the next two hours she sat before them, flanked by two additional assistants, timing each video call.  When the minute and a half allotment had ended a timer would beep, notifying the idol to pass the device on to the succeeding member.  They moved like a well-oiled machine, and it was uplifting to see them joyfully interact with each fan.  Sometimes she could see how upsetting it was when they wanted to keep talking but had to keep things going.  The supporters were what kept the guys motivated, kept them pushing through the demanding schedules and strict rules.  Their love and appreciation for them was obvious, and it made Nora proud to even be associated with them.
   Midnight had come as the work day neared its end.  The eight guys sat around the fire pit, perfectly illuminated by its flickering embers.  Crew members scurried around the set, collecting cameras and sound equipment while a producer briefed them on the concept for their next session.  Seated on the steps at the back of the house, the manager rapidly tapped away on an ipad. Looking up every so often, she would check on her clients and the staff that reported to her.  Getting caught up in post approvals and appearance requests, she hadn't noticed the assistant standing in front of her.
"Ms. Halston..."  The young intern's voice was soft and slightly shaky.  "I'm sorry to interrupt, but everything has wrapped for the evening.  Is there anything you would like for us to do?"  Rising to her feet, brushing any debris from her suit, she excused the staff for the evening and thanked them for their hard work.  Her breath clouded in the chill night air as she spoke, and her arms broke out in tiny little bumps.  Everyone loaded into personal cars and vans to depart to their off-site accommodations, leaving her alone with the band.
   Nora looked around, amazed by the newfound serenity of the farm.  All the traffic and endless chatter had ceased, allowing her jaw to uncleach and shoulders to relax.  Stopping by the fire pit, she checked on the guys.  They had worked for nearly 13 hours straight and her heart was heavy for them.
"You did a wonderful job today.  Thank you for being so cooperative, I know it was a lot."  They all nodded and half-heartedly applauded their own efforts.  "We have another busy day ahead, so I recommend you get some rest.  Is there anything you need?"  A few of them requested items like energy drinks and specific snacks.  Others double checked on their call time tomorrow.  Once every detail had been provided and the purchase orders had been submitted for their accoutrements, she dismissed them for the night.
   Minho, Felix, Seungmin, and Jeongin decided to head in and go to bed.  Hyunjin ran inside to grab his headphones and sketchpad.  When Han left with Chan and Changbin she wanted to sulk by the fire.  Having been so close to him all day, yet barely speaking a word, gave her mixed emotions.  She knew that it would be like this, that the day had been long and draining, but she desperately wanted some time alone.  Lost in thought, she stared into the heart of the fire.  Her eyes reflected the orange and yellow flames that leapt and danced wildly.
   The artist returned and silently seated himself on the opposite side of the pit.  Before immersing himself into his creative world, he offered her a sweet smile.  Sinking low into the chair, she lifted her head to the sky and studied its contents.  The pitch black canvas swirled with thin gray clouds and was dotted with stars.  The clarity of the night brought back memories of lying in empty fields as a kid.  Miles away from city streetlights and brightly lit buildings, it provided a clearer view of the world that hovered above. 
   Algid air tore through the thin fabric of her suit, causing her to shiver slightly.  However, the view was far too beautiful to walk away from just yet.  A weight had settled on her legs, bringing an unexpected warmth.  Returning her eyes to the earth, she was met with a welcomed sight.
"Come here often?"  Jisung quipped, handing her a steaming mug full of tea and taking the seat to her right.  Noticing right away that he had showered and returned to his normal self, she blushed and beamed uncontrollably.  Past the point of trying to play it cool, she sipped from the ceramic cup and played along.
"First time actually, yourself?"  He settled into his seat, positioning himself so he could see her perfectly.  Her body naturally turned to him as if answering the silent call of his own.
"Mine as well. What brings you here, romantic escape?"  He winked, causing her to giggle at his silliness.  Warming her hands with the mug, she cupped it tight and held it close to her body.
"Aren't you tired?"  She asked, breaking their little charade.  "It's been a long day."
"Are you trying to get rid of me?"  He teased.
"No! Not at all!"  The stirred response amused him, but she had fallen into thought.
   Even jokingly the question made her feel panicked because he couldn't possibly know how badly she wanted this time with him.  She had waited all day, listened to countless young women proclaim their love, and sat in the background as he worked.  When he reached out his hand to her, she hurried to sit the tea down and interlace her fingers with his. 
"Even if I was tired, I wouldn't want to sleep right now."
"Why not?"
"I'm not giving up my only time with you! Who needs sleep anyways?" 
"As your manager, I cannot condone such reckless behavior." She playfully scolded.  When his eyebrow flicked mischievously she knew he was up to something.
"Hmm, true."  He said, lifting himself from the comfort of the chair and dropping her hand.  "Goodnight, Nora!"  He shouted as he gingerly walked away.
"Nora? Who's Nora?"  Changbin asked, appearing from inside the house.  He plopped down in front of the fire and looked at the deserted woman.  Hyunjin stared from over the top of his sketchbook, laughing at the manager's dumbfounded expression.  He pointed at her, answering the rapper's question.
   As the door closed behind Han, she tried her best to get up and follow him nonchalantly.  As she ambled across the yard, the two by the pit called out her name.
"Goodnight Nora!"  They said in unison with a childish, singsongy tone.  Ignoring them, she reached the door and took a deep breath before slowly turning the knob.  Opening unexpectedly, she became imbalanced as the support from the door swung away.  Stumbling over the threshold, Jisung caught her and prevented her from crashing to the floor.
   For a moment they remained motionless and pressed against one another.  She looked up at him and simpered.  Without explanation, he led her through the kitchen and into the back pantry.  Practically dragging her inside, he rushed to shut the door behind them.  In one movement he came to her, taking her face in his hands, and kissed her.  She wilted beneath him, clinging to his shirt as if her legs would give out. 
" How's that for reckless behavior, Ms. Halston?"  Holding her close, she took comfort in little things like the way he smelled or slight scratchiness of stubble felt from nestling under his jaw.  It was rare that she was rendered speechless, but she found herself without anything to say.  There were no words that would accurately capture how she felt.
   Planting a little kiss on the top of her head, she buried herself deeper into the embrace.  Any closer and they could morph and form one entity.
"Jisung, it's late. You need to get some rest."  Though she intended it to be commanding, the words came out sleepy and soft.  Nora, herself, was exhausted but couldn't bear to leave his warmth.  He didn't want to either, but still respected her authority as his manager.  Taking her by the hand, they wandered through the farmhouse.  The nightowls had moved inside, Hyunjin still consumed by his sketching while Chan and Changbin played cards.  Passing them in the main room, the couple was ignored as they climbed the stairs hand in hand.
   Jisung stopped outside the bedroom door, drawing the manager back in to him.  He wanted to cross that threshold with her, crawl into bed, and spend the night.  Thinking of waking up next to her made his stomach turn and thrash about giddily within him.
"Goodnight."  He whispered before kissing her forehead. 
"Goodnight."  She replied breathily, still holding on tight.  It felt like betrayal when he removed his arms from around her and stepped away.  Leaving her was more difficult than he anticipated.  Still, it felt nice to go to bed knowing that in the morning she would be there.  In a matter of hours they would start all over again, strangers during the day and a couple bound by secrecy in the night.  It was already proving to be a difficult feat, but a thrilling and fulfilling one nonetheless.