the following days filled with almost the same routine for Daeun and the boys. except she went to Jeno's house during their 2 days break. they played games, watched cartoons and made breakfast together.
a few weeks remained until the eagerly awaited NCT Nation concert, and the anticipation in the air was getting to everyone. the Dreamies too, were deep in preparations, juggling rehearsals, recordings, and promotional activities with their everyday lives. despite their hectic schedules, they made sure to spend time with Daeun, brought her here and there to their schedules.
they made their way to the rehearsal studio, where the others were already warming up. the studio buzzed with energy as the members prepared for their routines, the air thick with the scent of hard work and determination.
"omo, she's here" someone exclaimed as all eyes in the dance practice studio fixated on the bubbly kid who had been chattering excitedly to Mark. Daeun, completely engrossed in her conversation, hadn't noticed her uncles watching her from the entrance, smiles spreading across their faces.
"look who decided to join us today," Johnny called out, stepping forward and catching Daeun's attention.
Daeun's face lit up with joy as she saw the familiar faces of her uncles, but as soon as she take a look at her surroundings, she realized how many people were there, all staring at her.
"appa..." she whimpered softly, her excitement dampened by the sudden attention. She hurriedly hid behind Mark, peeking out cautiously. Mark instinctively wrapped his arms around her protectively, "it's okay, baby," he murmured soothingly, gently rubbing her back.
"they're all family too, remember? they just want to say hello." Mark turned to her with a reassuring smile, patting her back. Taeyong chimed in cheerfully, "that's right! it has been a long time, isn't it?"
Daeun hesitated for a moment, clinging tightly to Mark's leg. the studio was buzzing with friendly faces, all smiling kindly at her. she slowly peeked out again, her eyes darting from one member to another. "appa, can i stay with Jieun unnie?" she whispered, her voice barely audible over the loud music playing in the background.
Mark nodded, crouching down to her level. "oh sure, be good, little one."
feeling reassured, Daeun relaxed slightly, standing close to the staff as she observed the members practicing their dance moves. slowly, she started warming up to the idea of being surrounded by so many new faces.
everyone got along nicely, discussions were held by units to improve their performance. each of them have their own part to focus on in order to deliver the best stage as a whole. the practice was going smoothly as they left with recalling the choreo and songs arrangement then everything would be perfect as how they planned.
as time goes by, Daeun was thoroughly enjoying herself, bustling around and finding joy in each interaction. she giggled as Hendery playfully swung her around during his break, her laughter echoing through the studio. Jaehyun had her in fits of giggles as he chased her playfully, creating a game out of their movements.
Yuta had her seated on his lap, patiently teaching her Japanese greetings. Daeun listened intently, her eyes wide with curiosity as she tried to repeat after him, occasionally stumbling over the unfamiliar syllables. Yuta chuckled warmly, encouraging her efforts and making her feel at ease.
amidst all the excitement, she didn't notice Mark slipping away to another studio, where the 90's love unit was practicing choreography. he had quietly left to fulfill his commitments, knowing she was in good hands with the other members.
she then wandered over to where Ten and Xiaojun were practicing a dance routine. Ten noticed her approach and immediately broke into a wide smile, beckoning her closer. "Daeunie," Ten greeted warmly, kneeling down to her eye level. "do you want to dance?"
Daeun nodded eagerly, her eyes lighting up with excitement. she clapped her hands in delight as they showed her a few simple dance moves. with Ten's gentle guidance, she attempted to mimic their steps, her movements filled with enthusiasm though they were a bit uncoordinated. a cute attempt.
meanwhile, in another corner of the studio, Chenle and Doyoung were working on vocal harmonies for an upcoming performance. Daeun spotted them and toddled over, curiosity shining in her eyes. Chenle noticed her first and waved her over with a gentle smile.
"kitten! come listen to this," he said, his voice warm and inviting. he began to sing a sweet melody, his eyes crinkling at the corners as Daeun clapped along in delight. Doyoung added his voice to the mix, harmonizing effortlessly with the younger, creating a beautiful blend of tones that fascinated her.
occasionally, Doyoung would glance over at her, amused by her rapt attention. Daeun soaked in the melodies, occasionally attempting to sing along in her own adorable way, her innocence and joy adding a special charm to the practice session.
