Chapter 23

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(Y/n)'s POV

Light streamed in through my eyelids as I turned in my sleep. Pulling the thin material over my head, I suddenly heard a quiet chuckle as my ears strained to hear more of the person's voice.

Where was I? Timidly taking a peek out, I jumped as my eyes landed on Tamaki's. A casual grin graced his face as he backed away, giving me more space.

I sat up, taking in my surroundings. This was their practice room, and Tamaki and I were the only people in here. Iori's jacket laid crumpled in my lap.

"Where is everyone?"
"In the spare practice room. I got bored so I went out to get some king pudding. Also, I wanted to tell you something," he replied.
"What did you want to tell me?"
"I want to go on TV."
"Okay, sure. I mean, doing so will require-"
"I'm serious."
"And I don't doubt it, Tamaki."
"That's the reason I became an idol. I want to be on TV."
"There's more to it, isn't there?"

His lips drew into a thin line, but I simply waved it off and offered a genuine, warm smile.

"Well then, it's my job to make that happen."
"Why aren't you questioning me?"
"Do you want me to pry into your personal matters?"
"No, I mean, I found out about your brother without your permission..."
"As long as you promise to keep it a secret, I won't make a fuss out of it."

There was a knock on the door. Before the two of us could reply, it opened. Iori took a step inside, his eyes casually glancing over the two of us, Tamaki on the floor and me on the sofa.

"I need to speak with (L/n)-san."

Tamaki got up and walked out with a wave. I handed the male his jacket and thanked him. He took a seat beside me, his expression serious and deprived of any warmth we may have shared before.

"We're having another concert," he exclaimed.
"Okay, I'll discuss the details with Tsumugi."
"Also, do you..."
"Yes?"
"No, it's nothing."
"You know, you can call me by my first name, right?"
"I see no reason to."
"Mmhmm. I call you by yours."
"*blush* That's just what you prefer."
"Then perhaps if I called you Iorin, like Tamaki does."
"...call me whatever you wish."

My phone rang, filling the silence that followed. Glancing at Iori, I picked up the unknown number. The familiar voice on the other end almost brought tears to my eyes. I felt my fingers twitch every so slightly as I laced my voice with politeness to dismiss any curiosity Iori may have.

"Hey (Y/n), it's been a while."
"Isaac, you kept your promise."
"Of course I did. Who do you take me for? A moron of a brother?"
"Oh, how did you know?"
"Damn sis, I feel so valued right now."
"Haha, I'm just kidding."
"Sorry it took so long for me to call. I had to beg mum for your number."
"You sure kept me waiting for quite a while."
"Sorry. Anyway, how's it going?"
"Could've been better. What about you?"
"Violet's been complaining. It's annoying the hell out of me."
"Complaining?"
"She wants to see you and talk about girl stuff."
"I see..."
"Come visit us."
"Sure, I'll try."
"Well, got to go. See ya."
"Bye."

The dark-haired male met my gaze, his expression giving nothing away but neither did mine. I expected he had several questions for me, but wasn't so rude as to barge into my personal life when I was only his assistant manager.

"You can speak English?" he asked.
"Yeah, I've been studying ever since I was a little girl."
"You're just full of surprises."
"Heh, I'll take as a compliment."
"*smiles* Sure."
"Right, time to plan IDOLiSH7's next concert. Oh and Iori?"
"Yes?"
"(Y/n)-san is fine. Most people refer to me using my first name. It's less formal that way...and besides, aren't we friends now?"

I flashed a smile, hiding the ache in my heart. Giving his arm a reassuring squeeze, I headed outside. Friends...what a contradicting word. There were such things as inseparably loyal friends, but did we all want to remain as such?

Tsumugi collapsed into my body as I turned a corner, making the both of us stumble back. She immediately apologised but I simply started laughing. A grin tugged at her lips.

"I was just about to go get you," she exclaimed.
"What a coincidence. I needed to talk to you too."
"About their concert?"
"Yeah, do you have all the details?"
"Right here."

I skimmed through the documents, leaning against the wall as I continued to did so. Interesting. The plan was detailed; however, that was it. A live broadcast, huh?

Advertising shouldn't be a problem if I was permitted to handle it. The boys would need to practise, although with the inspiration they acquired after watching Trigger's concert, that shouldn't be a problem.

I felt Tsumugi's large, bright eyes watching, following my movements. Raising an eyebrow, I caught her gaze, clearly startling her as she composed herself.

"What?"
"I was just wondering how you can handle yourself like that," she said.
"To be able to act professional and remain on relatively close terms with everyone, you mean?"
"Yeah, exactly that. I'm jealous."
"*smiles* There's nothing to be jealous about, Tsumugi. It's just how I've been brought up. You have your good points as well. The boys respect you."
"Thank you."
"Whoa, are you crying? Come on, Tsumugi."

I handed her a tissue, which she gratefully took.

"Hey, what do you say we go somewhere for lunch? I'm sure the boys will appreciate it too."
"Sure!"
"It's my treat."
"Eh?"

I simply gave an enigmatic smile before heading to the practise room. The upbeat melody of 'Dancing Beat' reverberated across the room as they danced and sung. They were improving.

"Guys, let's head out for lunch."
"No more plain udon noodles then?" Riku asked excitedly.
"Yep, we're going to the city. I'll be treating you guys but in return, make this concert your best effort."
"You can count on us, (Y/n)!"

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