✔ 𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐖𝐁𝐄𝐑𝐑𝐘 𝐓𝐎𝐔𝐂𝐇

Chapter 33

Three weeks had passed since Gumi and Taehyun had been working intensively on their songs. The long studio sessions and creative brainstorming moments had paid off and they were very happy with the result. The time they had spent together had deepened their relationship and strengthened their collaboration. Taehyun alone had concentrated on the preparations for the music video over the last two weeks. Choosing the locations, casting the dancers and designing the visual concept were exciting but also exhausting tasks.

But he was determined to make everything perfect.

That early afternoon, they had decided to meet up with their closest friends to celebrate the imminent release of the music video. The sun was shining through the open windows, letting in fresh air and warmth. Areum had filled the kitchen with a variety of treats, including homemade snacks and sweet desserts. The atmosphere was tense, but also full of anticipation.

Sooji, Kai and Yeonah had gathered in the kitchen and the excitement was palpable. The friends had witnessed the progress of the two artists at first hand over the past few weeks and were now eagerly awaiting the big moment. Gumi and Taehyun sat next to each other, their hands touching inconspicuously. They exchanged glances that were full of pride and love.

"It's just a few seconds away," Taehyun announced, his mouse at the ready and the YouTube page already open, showing the thumbnail. The anticipation was strong as they all stared at the screen together to watch the music video.

The clock was approaching the scheduled release time. Gumi could feel the excitement slowly building inside her. The support of her family and the fact that she could share this moment with Taehyun meant everything to her.

Finally, the time had come.

Taehyun clicked play and the music video began. The first notes sounded and the guests fell silent to enjoy the video in all its glory. It was a visual masterpiece that the two artists had created with great attention to detail and creativity. The images matched the music perfectly and the choreography was breathtaking. While the video was playing, Gumi couldn't help but squeeze Taehyun's hand tighter. This moment was not only a career highlight for them, but also a personal victory over all the obstacles they had overcome. When the music video ended, applause broke out and the friends cheered. Gumi felt overwhelmed by the love and support in the room.

"We could never have done this without you," she said, almost in tears, looking at her loved ones.

Indeed, everyone had contributed something.

Areum, who was standing behind her stepdaughter's chair, put her hand on Gumi's shoulder and looked at the girl. There was pride in the single mother's eyes as Gumi's voice reminded her a lot of her late husband. "I'm so proud of you, my darling. I'm sorry it took me so long," said Areum, bending down to kiss the top of Gumi's head.

Her mother's words touched Gumi's heart deeply and brought tears of joy to her eyes. She felt loved and accepted, as if a part of her deceased father lived on inside her. With a quiet sob, she was unable to put her gratitude into words. So she stood up and hugged Areum tightly, letting the warmth of their embrace carry her as she knew she could finally feel completely at home. Yeonah and Sooji watched this gesture with emotion, for they had supported Gumi in the creation of her song and were now just as excited as she was when the song was released.