secret pain | baekyeon (on-going)

Chapter 29

Good luck on your concert tomorrow, congratulations in advance. Liam is also sending his regards. I love you.

Baekhyun's gaze remained fixed on his phone screen, lost in a sea of thoughts, even as the anticipation and urgency of his upcoming concert buzzed around him. There was one question that had been haunting him since the revelation: Had she told Liam about him?

He felt a strange tug in his heart, a blend of hope and apprehension. Would he finally get the chance to meet his son as father?

The backstage area was a cacophony of activity. Staff members bustled about with equipment, dancers doing their warm up routine, and stylists adjusted outfits and makeup. Amidst all this frenzy, Baekhyun sat still, seemingly calm, yet an internal storm raged within him. The weight of performing solo was distinctively different from the countless concert he had with EXO. Each performance was like baring his soul, and tonight, the emotions were compounded by the recent upheavals in his personal life.

A wave of nostalgia washed over him, as he recalled Taeyeon's first solo concert. The way her hand had clung to his, her anxiety palpable, right up until the moment she took the stage. He had accused her teasingly later for making him miss the opening act, and the memory brought a faint smile to his face.

Over the past week, Baekhyun had had an epiphany. It now made sense why he felt such a strong bond with Liam. The uncanny resemblance they shared, which he had attributed to Taeyeon's genes, was now glaringly obvious. How had he not seen it before? The familiar quirks, the shared expressions – they were undeniably father and son.

His musings were abruptly interrupted by the boisterous entrance of a familiar group. The members of EXO burst into the room, their energetic presence a stark contrast to Baekhyun's quiet introspection. Their laughter and congratulatory pats brought him back to the present, reminding him of the impending show and the support system he had in his brothers.

The members, each with their own unique aura, surrounded Baekhyun, patting him on the back, and offering words of encouragement.

"Hey, man! Ready to kill it tonight?" Chanyeol exclaimed, his towering presence filling the room with warmth.

Sehun, always the playful maknae, commented with a smirk, "Bet you're going to miss our voices tonight."

Suho, ever the caring leader, shot Baekhyun a more concerned look. "You seem distracted. Everything okay?"

Baekhyun sighed, "Just a lot on my mind. But I'll be okay."

Xiumin nudged him playfully, "You've got this! Remember, we're here cheering for you. Plus, you've got the Baekhyun charm. The crowd's gonna love it."

Baekhyun laughed genuinely this time, the tension in the room dissipating. "Thanks, guys. Seriously. It means the world."

As they continued to chat and joke, Baekhyun felt the weight on his shoulders lighten, if only a little. The unwavering support of his members was a reminder that no matter what personal challenges he faced, he was never truly alone.

The clock on the wall indicated that it was almost time. Baekhyun took a deep breath, mentally preparing himself. With one last group hug, he headed towards the stage, the cheers of his fans growing louder with each step. This was his moment, and he was going to shine.

Outside the backstage area, the arena buzzed with excitement. Fans waved their light sticks rhythmically, illuminating the dimly lit area with a sea of radiant colors. The energy was palpable, as thousands awaited the appearance of their beloved star.

In a reserved section near the stage, Taeyeon and Liam settled into their seats. Liam, his eyes wide with wonder, was taking in the grandeur of the arena, while Taeyeon felt a mix of emotions. She was anxious about how Baekhyun would react upon seeing them, hopeful for a sign of acknowledgment, and nervous about the whole situation.