The Echo in my Mind

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Unlike my fellow dancers, I have never craved the attention of being on the front lines. I love the idea of standing behind the show, while still being apart of the big picture. I love the applause after a long performance even if they aren't for me. It never brought sadness to my heart because I knew I was working hard to be here and I wasn't having to deal with all of the paparazzi like the idols were. It was like being a secret idol. Nobody paid attention to me but that was my secret weapon.

As the studio emptied out, I was left alone with my thoughts. The silence was soothing, a stark contrast to the buzzing energy that filled the room just moments ago. I stretched my ankle carefully, making sure it was fully functional, before moving into another set of drills. There was no room for weakness, no space for distractions. Not here, not in this world.

The next few days passed in a blur of rehearsals and late-night practices. I threw myself into the routine, letting the rhythm and sweat push out the memory of that single, disorienting moment. But no matter how focused I tried to remain, it was as if fate had other plans.

I started noticing him more. Jisung's presence seemed to seep into the edges of my consciousness, whether I was on the stage, grabbing a quick meal, or even in the break room gulping down water between sets. He was always there-laughing with the members, sharing an inside joke, or simply focused on his work, that easy smile never far from his face. And each time I saw him, it tugged at something deep within me, a feeling I didn't want to acknowledge. In fact, a feeling that I refuse to acknowledge. Working my way this far to be a backup dancer for stray kids as a female was definitely no easy fate.

Of course I had to reject men that asked me out. I had too much to focus on to let them distract me. It's not like I have low self esteem, it's quite fine actually. I also know I could have been an idol but, I don't really love the attention on me. I want to do what I love but also enjoy my privacy. Idols have it rough, which I unfortunately get to see firsthand by working so closely with them. That doesn't mean when I'm not practicing that I don't get lonely. I actually cut ties with most people so when I'm dancing- that's mostly all I feel. Maybe I should try dating to get my mind off Jisung and to be less lonely.

One afternoon, after a particularly grueling rehearsal, I decided to grab a coffee from the café down the street, hoping to run into a handsome stranger that will ask for my number. The sun was setting, casting a warm glow over the city as I stepped out of the building. I needed the caffeine, but more than that, I needed a moment to breathe, to reset.

The café was quiet, a peaceful retreat from the chaos of the day. I ordered my usual-a strong black coffee-and took a seat by the window, letting the warmth of the cup seep into my hands. Just as I was beginning to relax, the door chimed, and my stomach dropped at the sight of that face.


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