The Heroes

Hope

"Ni-ki,

I hope you find this and not somebody else, but I know you'll come snooping in here soon enough. I apologize for leaving without saying goodbye. Your parents arrived late at night and deemed it appropriate for me to leave. I hope you're doing well, staying out of trouble. I also want you to know that this isn't goodbye; I will see you soon. I bought tickets for your upcoming concert. I had no idea you were so popular—I see where the cockiness came from. You're a good boy, Ni-ki. Be good to your parents and bandmates, and I'll see you very soon. Don't worry, you won't feel lost forever.

Sincerely, Jay

P.S. Guessing that if you found this, you are planning to sleep in my bed. I made sure to leave it as it was. Sweet dreams, Ni-ki."

Ni-ki's heart swelled as he read the words written by Jay, his mentor and dear friend. The note felt like a lifeline, a connection that bridged the gap left by Jay's sudden departure. A mix of emotions washed over him—relief, warmth, and a touch of sadness for the way Jay had to leave.

A smile tugged at Ni-ki's lips as he read Jay's words of reassurance. The most important thing was that Jay wasn't saying goodbye forever. He had plans to return, and Ni-ki clung to that promise with hope. The notion that Jay had bought tickets to their upcoming concert filled Ni-ki with excitement and a renewed sense of purpose.

The mention of his parents made Ni-ki's heart ache with a sense of longing. He missed Jay's presence, his guidance, and his unassuming affection. Knowing that Jay was thinking about him even after leaving brought tears of gratitude to Ni-ki's eyes.

As he finished reading, Ni-ki folded the note carefully, holding it close to his chest. The words felt like a beacon of light in the midst of his uncertainty. With a determined smile, he set the note aside and lay down on Jay's bed—the bed that held so many memories and emotions.

The scent of Jay surrounded him, and the warmth of the covers embraced him like a comforting hug. Ni-ki closed his eyes, the weight of the day and the rollercoaster of emotions he had experienced began to fade. With a contented sigh, he drifted into sleep, knowing that Jay's promise of returning was a beacon of hope that would guide him through the challenges ahead.

🎸🪗🥁🎤

The group of boys had assembled at Ni-ki's sprawling house, their gazes drawn to the impressive exterior. Jake's admiring exhalation broke the silence. "Your house is magnificent," he remarked, clearly impressed by the grandeur of the residence. Ni-ki's lips curled into a self-assured smirk.

Jooyeon's voice cut through the air, a hint of excitement lacing his words. "The car should be here in 3 minutes," he announced, and Sunghoon nodded in acknowledgment. The anticipation was palpable among them as they exchanged glances.

"I can't believe we're meeting a real producer," Ni-ki exclaimed, his eyes reflecting a mixture of eagerness and nerves. He seemed almost incredulous at the prospect, a realization of their growing significance as a band sinking in. "I'm getting so much bank," he added with a confident grin, reveling in the sense of accomplishment.

Jake's scoff carried a playful undertone. "Like you don't have enough," he retorted, his tone teasing. "What did you say your weekly allowance was?" Sunghoon chimed in, a knowing glint in his eyes. Ni-ki's cheeks flushed, and he quieted down, feeling slightly embarrassed by his earlier boast.

Just as they settled into a moment of camaraderie, the awaited car pulled up to the curb. The boys exchanged a quick glance before piling into the vehicle, excitement bubbling beneath the surface. Sunghoon leaned over to the driver's seat, his command delivered fluently in English. "SK Entertainment, please."