**Boys and girls compete in the first co-ed competition to become an idol in a coveted new K-pop Group.**
Beom Giovanna, with her two million Instagram followers, is ready for another reality competition and crown. Yet, a well-kept secret might be t...
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Everything was a blur of emotion. A profound sense of hollowness and sadness enveloped me, but deep down, a small part of me had been anticipating this outcome. Despite the ache in my heart, I couldn't help but feel genuine happiness for my friends who had secured their spots. They would get to live their dreams, and I vowed to be their biggest fan, supporting them every step of the way.
Dragging my feet backstage, I noticed a group of trainees huddled together, tears streaming down their faces as they sought solace in each other's embrace. Matthew and Keita, to everyone's surprise, had not made it through. How was it even possible? My heart sank even further at the sight of their crestfallen expressions. It seemed like a cruel twist of fate.
Just as I was lost in my thoughts, Hannah, with her commanding presence, stormed out from a backstage room and pointed directly at me and Matthew. Her mere presence made my nerves go haywire. Matthew wiped away his tears, and we both followed her into a larger room, where the entire debut group had gathered. The room was still buzzing with excitement, but Billie's tears betrayed her sadness. Losing all her closest friends had taken its toll. I longed to give her a comforting hug, but the weight of the situation held me back.
"Silence!" Hannah's sharp voice sliced through the room, instantly commanding attention. Every head turned towards her, Matthew, and me — the only ones standing. A shiver ran down my spine as I realized something significant was about to unfold.
Lux was nowhere to be seen, and that sent a wave of unease crashing over me. Hannah's eyes darted towards the door, and she barked at Minlee, who stood nearby. "Minlee, come here now!"
The door creaked open, and Lux appeared, her eyes swollen from tears. She clung tightly to the door handle, as if seeking support. Whispers and murmurs erupted throughout the room. What was happening? Why did Lux look so distraught?
"Minlee, please. Tell us your announcement," Hannah demanded, her voice laced with urgency.
Lux hesitated for a moment, her gaze shifting uneasily. Slowly, she walked forward, closing the door behind her. The room held its breath in anticipation, anxiously awaiting her words.
"I have decided not to debut," Lux finally uttered, her voice barely above a whisper.
A collective gasp echoed through the room, followed by protests and incredulous cries. "But you're the number one spot!" someone shouted in disbelief.
Lux's eyes met Hannah's, and an unspoken exchange passed between them. Confusion gnawed at my insides. What had transpired between them? Why would Lux give up this opportunity?
The blood drained from my face, leaving me pale and numb. Lux, why? This was what you wanted. We had all worked so hard for this moment.
Hui rose from his seat. He had been signing something earlier by the other table. I had seen it, but not registered anything amiss. Determination was etched on his face.
"I have decided to forgo my spot as well. Lux and I will still be involved with the debut group, but in a different capacity. Don't worry," Hui reassured, his voice steady despite the storm of emotions in the room. "Lux will be the new manager of Zerobaseone. I will be your main producer."
Hannah interjected Hui's beautiful speech, his tones were filled with pride as he glanced at a tearful Minlee. But Hannah's tone was sharp and impatient. "Choonhae, Matthew, sit down. And close your goddamn mouths! You're gaping like a fish out of water!"
Startled, I shut my mouth, my mind reeling with a whirlwind of emotions. I watched as Hannah continued, delivering her unexpected revelation. What was happening to me today??
"You were sixth in the public vote, Choonhae, and Matthew. You're both in!" Hannah's words hit me like a ton of bricks.
