Always Seven // Xdinary Heroes 7th Member

ׂ╰┈➤ part 16.

I.

It was nearing the end of the wedding ceremony, and the room was filled with a warm, golden glow from the chandeliers. Guests were sitting at their tables, drinks in hand, listening to heartfelt toasts from the best man and maid of honor. It was almost six in the evening, and there was a palpable sense of anticipation in the air. 

The members of Xdinary Heroes were seated at their table, knowing that they were set to perform in less than ten minutes. They were supposed to be the surprise entrance act for the after-party, a fact known only to Seungmin's older brother. One of the staff members, a wedding coordinator, approached their table quietly. 

She gestured subtly, indicating that it was time for them to head backstage. They nodded in understanding, knowing they needed to move discreetly to keep the surprise intact. Minhee gave a small smile to Seungmin before she stood up, the two of them sharing a knowing look. Gunil, Jungsu, and Jiseok followed suit, each of them getting up one by one, trying to avoid drawing attention. 

Jooyeon was the last to leave, offering a quick wave to Seungmin's parents, who were engrossed in the speeches and didn't notice the band's departure. Backstage, the atmosphere was a mix of quiet excitement and focused preparation. 

The members did their vocal warm-ups in hushed tones, each of them buzzing with anticipation. Gunil twirled his drumsticks expertly, a look of concentration on his face. "Just like any other performance," he muttered to himself, though the sparkle in his eyes said otherwise. Jungsu and Seungmin were busy flexing their fingers, preparing for the intricate keyboard and synthesizer parts. 

"Ready to rock this?" Jungsu whispered, receiving an enthusiastic nod from Seungmin. "Always," Seungmin replied, a grin spreading across his face. Jiseok and Hyeongjun were doing air guitar riffs, their movements exaggerated and playful. "Think anyone will notice if we play like this?" Jiseok joked, earning a laugh from Hyeongjun. 

"Only if they're blind," Hyeongjun shot back, chuckling. Their banter lightened the mood, making everyone laugh. Meanwhile, Minhee and Jooyeon were in the corner, chatting quietly. "Nervous?" Jooyeon asked, glancing at Minhee. She shook her head, a calm smile on her face. "Not really. It's going to be fun, and it's for a special occasion," she replied, her eyes twinkling with excitement. 

II.

As time ticked by, they could hear the muffled sounds of the guests settling down and the wedding coordinator announcing the start of the after-party. Minhee and Hyeongjun peeked through the door, watching as their instruments were being set on the stage. The staff worked efficiently, arranging the equipment with practiced ease. 

The guests were taking their seats again, some of them glancing curiously at the stage, wondering what was coming next. "It's showtime," Hyeongjun whispered, turning to the others with a grin. They all gathered together, forming a tight circle. 

"Let's give them a performance they'll never forget," Gunil said, his voice filled with determination. The others nodded, their expressions a mix of excitement and resolve. As the final preparations were made, the coordinator gave them a thumbs-up, signaling that it was time. 

They took their positions, each of them focusing on their instruments, the adrenaline coursing through their veins. The lights dimmed slightly, and a hush fell over the room as the guests turned their attention to the stage. The coordinator's voice echoed through the speakers. 

"Ladies and gentlemen, we have a special surprise for you tonight. Please welcome Xdinary Heroes!" The room erupted in applause and cheers as the spotlight illuminated the band. Minhee, standing at the front with her microphone, gave a radiant smile, feeling the energy of the crowd.