Harmonies of the Heart

Chapter 4: New Beginnings

The atmosphere in the Babymonster practice room buzzed with excitement. The girls had just wrapped up their latest dance session, and Ruka could hardly contain her joy. She had received amazing news that morning: Junkyu had texted her, saying that Papa YG had approved their collaboration. This was a huge opportunity, and the thought of working closely with him sent butterflies fluttering in her stomach.

As the girls began to stretch, Rami, one of Ruka's closest friends in the group, sidled up to her, a teasing grin on her face. "So, I saw you talking with Junkyu earlier. Anything interesting happen?"

Ruka felt her cheeks heat up, a blush creeping onto her face. She tried to play it cool. "N-No, nothing much! Just... discussing the new project."

Rami's eyes sparkled with mischief. "Oh, come on! I know you're a fan of Treasure's music, especially Junkyu's songs. There has to be something more!"

Ruka bit her lip, unable to hide her smile. "Really, Rami, it's just a collaboration. I'm excited, that's all."

"Sure, sure," Rami said, raising an eyebrow but unable to stifle her laughter. "Just don't forget about us when you become a huge star, okay?"

"I won't! You're my best friend," Ruka replied, nudging Rami playfully. The banter felt comforting, a reminder of the bond they shared amidst their busy schedules.

Later that night, as the lights in the Babymonster dorm dimmed, Ruka found herself scrolling through her phone. A message popped up from Yeonjun, making her heart race.

**Yeonjun:** "Hey, are you already asleep?"

Ruka typed back quickly, her fingers dancing over the screen. 

**Ruka:** "Not yet! I'm just relaxing. Tomorrow is our last stage for the new song promotion, so I'm a little nervous!"

**Yeonjun:** "You'll do great! Just like you did last time. This is the second time I've reached out to you since we met, so I'm glad we're in touch."

Ruka felt a flutter of warmth at his words. She admired how supportive he was, even from a distance. Despite the playful teasing from her members, she felt a sense of calm when talking to him.

**Ruka:** "Thank you, Sunbaenim. I'll do my best! I'm just a bit anxious."

**Yeonjun:** "No need to worry! You're amazing on stage. By the way, since we're talking more now, how about we drop the honorifics? Just call me Yeonjun, and I'll call you Ruka."

Ruka paused, feeling a mix of concern and excitement. In Korean culture, using honorifics is a sign of respect, especially toward seniors like Yeonjun. But something about his suggestion felt refreshing, a step toward a more casual friendship.

**Ruka:** "Are you sure? I mean, you're older and a sunbaenim..."

**Yeonjun:** "I'm sure! We can be more informal. It'll be fun!"

Ruka thought for a moment, biting her lip. It felt a bit risky, but she also liked the idea of being closer to him. 

**Ruka:** "Okay, I agree! Let's do it."

**Yeonjun:** "Awesome! I'm glad! Now, get some rest and sweet dreams, Ruka."

Ruka smiled at his message, warmth flooding through her. 

**Ruka:** "Goodnight, Yeonjun! Thank you for everything."

As she set her phone down and prepared for bed, Ruka felt a wave of happiness wash over her. Tomorrow would be a big day, and she was excited about the performance and the new collaboration with Junkyu. With her heart full of hope and anticipation, she drifted off to sleep, dreaming of the bright future ahead.

The next morning, the day unfolded in a whirlwind of activity. Babymonster gathered in the dressing room, their energy electric as they prepped for their final stage. Ruka could hardly contain her excitement about the upcoming project with Junkyu, and the support from Yeonjun only added to her motivation.

As the members got ready, Rami nudged Ruka again, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "So, are you ready to impress both Junkyu and Yeonjun today?"

Ruka laughed, trying to suppress her blush. "I'll do my best! Just let me focus!"

With their spirits high, the girls made their way tothe stage, each step resonating with the promise of new beginnings. Ruka took adeep breath, ready to give it her all, knowing that she had the support of hermembers, Junkyu, and now Yeonjun too. The world felt bright and full ofpossibilities, and she was ready to embrace every moment