Teenage Kim Somin is just ordinary girl who dreamed of becoming a K-pop star, and when she finally lands a trainee spot at one of South Korea's top entertainment agencies, it feels like her dreams are within reach. But the path to stardom is far fro...
The following week passes in its usual rhythm—school, homework, and the occasional text from Junkyu about how exhausted he is. Somin doesn't mind the monotony of her routine, but she can't help but notice how different her life feels compared to Junkyu's. While her days are predictable, his are filled with intense training, late-night rehearsals, and the constant pressure to succeed.
On Friday afternoon, after another long week of classes, Somin finds herself daydreaming in the back of the classroom. The teacher is discussing something about historical events, but her mind drifts back to Junkyu. She imagines him in the practice room, sweat dripping down his forehead as he learns a complicated dance routine. She pictures him laughing with the other trainees during breaks, sharing stories about their struggles and dreams.
Just then, the school bell rings, breaking her reverie. The other students pack up quickly, eager to escape into the weekend. Somin gathers her things, still lost in thought. As she walks through the bustling hallways, she can't shake the feeling that something about her life is about to change.
After school, she heads to her usual café to unwind. Sitting at a corner table, sipping her favorite strawberry smoothie, she pulls out her phone and texts Junkyu.
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Feeling a rush of excitement, Somin leaves the café and makes her way to their favorite restaurant. The thought of catching up with her brother fills her with warmth. As she approaches, she spots Junkyu sitting at their usual booth, his cap pulled low over his brow.
"Hey, superstar," she teases as she slides into the seat across from him.
Junkyu looks up, a grin breaking across his tired face. "I'm not a superstar yet! Just a trainee trying to survive."
They both laugh, and for a moment, it feels like everything is normal. They order their food, and as they eat, Somin notices the bags under Junkyu's eyes and the slight tension in his shoulders. It reminds her of the sacrifices he's making.
"Is it getting harder?" she asks, her voice softer now.
He sighs, running a hand through his hair. "Some days are tougher than others. We've been working on our performance for the upcoming showcase, and the pressure is intense. But it's worth it when I think about debuting."
Somin nods, trying to understand. "What if you don't debut, though? What happens then?"
Junkyu looks down at his plate for a moment, contemplating. "I don't know. I guess I'd have to reevaluate things. But I can't let myself think like that. I have to believe I can make it."
His determination is inspiring, but it also makes Somin anxious. She's watched him chase this dream with unwavering dedication, and she feels a mix of pride and fear for him.
"Do you ever think about how this affects me?" she asks suddenly. "I mean, it's like your entire life is in this bubble, and I'm just... here."
Junkyu looks up, surprise etched on his face. "What do you mean? You're my sister. You're always in my life."
"Yeah, but it's like I don't really get to share it with you," she replies, her voice barely above a whisper. "You're always so busy, and when we do get to hang out, I feel like I'm living in two separate worlds."
He pauses, clearly taking her words seriously. "I didn't realize you felt that way. I'm sorry, Somin. I want to be there for you, but it's hard to balance everything."
As they continue their meal, Somin's thoughts swirl. The idea of the auditions Junkyu mentioned lingers in her mind, though she still pushes it away. She doesn't want to step into his world—she likes her life just fine. But the truth is, she misses the connection they used to have.
After dinner, they walk around the neighborhood, their laughter echoing in the cool night air. The city buzzes with energy, and Somin feels a sense of longing mixed with comfort. She knows Junkyu is working hard, but she also wants to feel more connected to him, to understand his world better.
As they turn down a quieter street, Junkyu pauses, looking up at the stars twinkling in the sky. "You know, sometimes I feel like I'm living in a dream. It's exciting, but it can also feel really lonely."
Somin's heart aches at his words. "You're not alone, Junkyu. I'm here, even if it doesn't seem like it."
He smiles, a warmth returning to his expression. "I know. And I appreciate it more than you know. Maybe I should bring you to the company one day? You could see what it's all about."
She hesitates, the thought both thrilling and terrifying. "I don't know. That's your world, not mine."
"Just think about it," he urges, nudging her playfully. "It might be fun! Plus, you could finally meet my friends. They'd love you."
Somin smiles at the idea but can't shake her reluctance. She loves the thought of being more connected to her brother, but the reality of the idol world feels overwhelming. Still, as they walk and talk, she realizes that their worlds don't have to be so separate after all. Maybe, just maybe, there's a way to bridge the gap.
As they walk, the gentle night air wraps around them, creating a cocoon of familiarity. Somin hears the distant sounds of laughter from nearby cafés and the faint music drifting through the streets. For a moment, everything feels perfect, like they're the only two people in the world.
"Junkyu," Somin says, breaking the comfortable silence, "do you ever get scared? Like, what if you put all this effort into training and it doesn't lead to anything?"
He pauses, considering her question. "Of course I get scared. It's part of the process. But I try not to dwell on it. If I focus too much on what could go wrong, I might lose sight of what I really want. Besides, if I let fear control me, I'll never take risks or chase my dreams."
Somin admires his perspective, but her own fears nag at her. She wants to support Junkyu, but what if stepping into his world means risking their bond? She knows all too well how intense the K-pop industry can be, and it's hard not to feel overwhelmed by the thought of it.
"Still, it must be hard to see your friends get eliminated or not make the cut," she presses gently. "How do you deal with that?"
Junkyu sighs, his expression becoming serious. "It's tough. You become close with your fellow trainees—they're like family. But you have to remind yourself that everyone has their own journey. If someone doesn't make it, it's not a reflection of their worth. Sometimes it just comes down to timing or fit."
He looks at her, his gaze intense and sincere. "But you know what? It makes me want to work even harder. I don't want to be left behind."
Somin nods, impressed by his maturity. "That's really admirable, Junkyu. I can see why you're so passionate about this."
As they continue walking, Somin begins to feel a sense of connection that she hadn't expected. While she's always seen Junkyu as her older brother, tonight he feels like a mentor, guiding her through his world.
"Maybe I could come by the company sometime," she suggests tentatively, surprising even herself. "Just to see what you do."
Junkyu's eyes widen with excitement. "Really? That'd be amazing!"
Somin bites her lip, feeling a mix of anticipation and anxiety. She doesn't know what the future holds, but maybe, just maybe, she's ready to find out—together.
