chapter 4: backstage encounter
︑︒⚬∙︓·⠄𓆝 𓆜 ––—–––––———–┊⁀➷
after an exhilarating live broadcast, the backstage atmosphere buzzed with excitement. as I stepped off the stage, adrenaline still coursing through me, I took a moment to soak in the energy around me.
navigating through the bustling crew, I spotted the members of harmonieux gathered in a corner, their vibrant energy palpable. I approached them, ready to offer some encouragement.
“great job out there, everyone!” I said, genuinely impressed by their performance.
soojin turned to me with a bright smile. “thanks, kirinare! you brought a lot of energy as mc!”
just then, jiwon’s voice sliced through the noise, sharp and condescending. “yeah, if you like hogging the spotlight.”
I turned to her, a calm smile on my face. “hogging the spotlight? I thought we were all here to have fun. is that a problem?”
jiwon crossed her arms, her expression dripping with disdain. “it’s cute that you think you can shine like that, but let’s be real—taesan wouldn’t want to partner with you if he had a choice. he’s not interested in you, wannabe girl.”
I kept my smile, unfazed. “not interested? you seem awfully sure for someone who’s not in his head. maybe you should ask him directly.”
before I could finish my thought, jiwon lunged forward, grabbing a handful of my hair. “seriously, you should stay away from taesan—”
before she could finish, I swiftly slapped her hand away. “is that really necessary?” I replied, my tone cool yet firm. “you think hair-pulling will intimidate me?”
jiwon stumbled back, surprise flashing across her face before anger took over. “you think you can just push me away like that? you think you’re tough?”
“honestly? I think I’m tougher than someone who resorts to hair-pulling,” I shot back, keeping my composure. “if taesan enjoys working with me, that’s his choice. you might want to focus on your own performance instead of obsessing over mine.”
jiwon’s eyes narrowed, frustration evident. “what, you think you can just waltz in and take what you want? you don’t belong here.”
“waltz in? I was invited,” I said, cutting her off. “if you’re feeling threatened, maybe it’s time to look in the mirror.”
her face flushed, but I stood my ground, my smile unwavering. “you really think you’re something special, don’t you?” she challenged, her voice rising.
“i think I’m doing my best,” I replied, still grinning. “and it seems to be working. if that bothers you, then maybe you should reconsider your priorities.”
as I turned to leave, I could feel the weight of their glares, especially jiwon’s simmering fury. “you can’t just walk away,” she snapped.
“watch me,” I said, my voice steady as I stepped away. “if you ever want to collaborate or learn from each other, I’ll be around. otherwise, good luck out there.”
stepping outside, I took a deep breath, embracing the cool air. their negativity didn’t faze me; I was confident in my own journey, ready to continue growing and thriving in my career.
