secret pain | baekyeon (on-going)

Chapter 20

(2017)

Observing Taeyeon closely, Kevin's concern was evident. "Taeyeon, you've been looking a bit unwell recently. Given the tight deadlines, I think we should consider pushing back our session. It's crucial you're in the best shape vocally and health-wise."

Kevin, having collaborated with countless artists in the past, had developed an acute sense of when someone wasn't feeling their best. He noted Taeyeon's frequent excursions to the restroom post her salmon lunch, her pale complexion, and the lethargy in her posture.

"Look, how about I have a word with your manager? We can get you to a physician to ensure everything's okay. These symptoms – the nausea, repeated restroom visits, the complaints of indigestion, and those migraines – aren't something to brush off."

Attempting to maintain her composure, Taeyeon tried to downplay her situation. "It's alright, Kevin. These things happen sometimes. It's just a phase..."

However, as Kevin connected the dots from the symptoms she'd been displaying, a light bulb moment occurred. He leaned in, lowering his voice, "Hold on... are you perhaps...?"

Desperation evident in her eyes, Taeyeon quickly interjected, "Promise me you won't breathe a word of this to anyone. No one must know."

Understanding the gravity of the situation, he whispered, "Is Baekhyun the father?"

With a deep sigh, she admitted, "He's the only man in my life, Kevin. No one else could be."

Kevin's disappointment was palpable. Taeyeon had been the artist who had managed to captivate his heart, not just with her remarkable voice but also her personality. She played a pivotal role in his decision to join SM Entertainment for music production.

"Does Baekhyun have any idea about this?" Kevin inquired further, his initial hopes dashed by the weight of the revelation.

"No, and I'd prefer it to stay that way."

Puzzled by her determination to keep Baekhyun in the dark, Kevin pressed on, "Why, Taeyeon? He's the father. He deserves to know."

Taeyeon's gaze turned resolute as she explained, "I can't let him shoulder the responsibilities of fatherhood right now, not when he's on the brink of a major breakthrough in his career. Baekhyun is at the cusp of his peak, and he's made it clear, he said it himself he can't afford any scandals. Even with the utmost caution, there's always a risk of word getting out."

"He said that?" Kevin clenched his fists in anger at the mention of Baekhyun's statement. He had held Baekhyun in high regard, both personally and professionally. Working with him had been a dream, but now that dream was tainted by Baekhyun's apparent lack of commitment and courage.

"That son of a bitch," Kevin muttered under his breath, unable to fathom how Baekhyun could prioritize his career over such a significant responsibility. His respect for the artist was quickly fading away.

.

Kevin sat back heavily in the plush lounge chair, processing the events that had transpired. He was interrupted from his thoughts by Daren, one of his co-producers, entering the lounge.

"Kevin, I've done what you asked," Daren began, his tone somewhat incredulous. "But tell me, what good will spreading this rumor bring? Isn’t there a high chance that this might tarnish Taeyeon's reputation?"

Kevin ran a hand through his hair, "She approached me about this. It was her request."

Daren looked taken aback. "What? You're telling me she asked for this? Look, I don’t want any part in this mess. Spreading rumors like this can get me kicked out of this company."

Kevin nodded in understanding. "Thanks for your help, man. If anything goes south, I promise to shoulder the blame."

With a stern look, Daren responded, "You better. This isn’t just any rumor, it could be career-destroying." Without another word, he left the lounge.

After a moment of silence, Kevin grabbed his phone and dialed Taeyeon's number. As soon as she picked up, he voiced his concern, "Taeyeon, it's done. The pictures are out. But are you certain about this? Are you sure it won't backfire?"

Taeyeon replied with a hint of resolve in her voice, "Kevin, I've thought it through. If I acted out of pure self-interest, I would've jeopardized Baekhyun's entire career. That's not something I'm willing to live with. Your help in this matter means the world to me."

Hanging up, Kevin gazed forlornly at the photos circulating on his screen. The images captured Taeyeon and a man - unmistakably Kevin, although his features were concealed well enough - in intimate poses. While Kevin was virtually unrecognizable, there was no doubt that the woman in the pictures was Taeyeon.

Kevin couldn't help but think, she must truly be desperate to go to such lengths.

She must be insane but this is her last resort.

.

(Present)

Kevin leaned in, his voice filled with both humor and sincerity, "You do realize that if you ever find yourself needing help or support, I'm only a phone call away, right? I'd willingly leave LA in a heartbeat to come to your side in South Korea," he chuckled.

Taeyeon met his gaze, gratitude shining in her eyes. "I can't thank you enough for all you've done, Kevin. And remember, just because we're parting ways now doesn't mean our conversations end here. When you decide to tie the knot, make sure to invite me. I'd be more than happy to grace the occasion with a song or two."

Kevin, ever the dramatic, feigned a wounded expression. "I have this nagging feeling that if I linger any longer, you're going to send me off with yet another heartbreak," he jested, clutching his chest and miming a hurt demeanor. "Seems like I'm in for another heartbreak, courtesy of you, Taeyeon."

Her smile was radiant yet touched with sadness. "Always take care, Kevin White. Our time together, our memories, they'll remain with me always." As she stood up and approached him, Kevin, understanding the unspoken sentiment, rose to meet her in a comforting embrace.

To Taeyeon, the outside world's prying eyes and hushed whispers meant little. The murmurs of the crowd and their pointed looks, speculating on the bond shared by the internationally renowned Kim Taeyeon and Kevin, barely registered with her.

But in that cocoon of warmth and shared memories, a familiar sight jolted Taeyeon back to reality. As her eyes locked onto a familiar face peering through the window, the intensity of her emotions made her voice falter.

"Baekhyun..." she murmured, a mixture of surprise and uncertainty.