Magnetism

Chapter 2 - A Harmony of Passion

A few weeks later, I woke up in my apartment, lazily rubbing my eyes. The sun streamed in through the window onto my sheets and I looked at the clock. 7:26. 

I let out a groan and fell back into my bed as I remembered what I was doing today. A live duet with Jimin to introduce an event. For the past couple of weeks we had been practising together. Although he remained cold and unfeeling towards me, I could not deny my attraction. But every second with him was painful. 

I got up and went straight to my coffee machine. As the coffee brewed, I still found myself lost in my Jimin-centred thoughts. I pressed the cuffs of my sweatshirt to my blushing cheeks as I caught myself thinking about what might lie beneath his opulent tailored outfits. With a shake of my head I brought my coffee to the table to check my daily updates from Big Hit. I was due at the studio in an hour to rehearse. With a sigh, I downed my coffee and got ready.

___

Just five minutes into rehearsals and I was already vexed. Despite trying to be pleasant to the arrogant singer, he didn't even bother to say good morning. I shook it off as I sang my part, moving fluidly around him and checking my moves in the mirror. The staff watching gave occasional murmurs of approval, clapping when we each finished a verse. The chorus came and Jimin and I combined our voices to create a melodious harmony. I noted his closed eyes, brow furrowed in concentration as he focused on the emotion in his voice. If only he would show such emotion towards me.

When the time arose for us to go to the event, nerves started to twist uneasily in my stomach. I didn't know how the fans would take to Jimin singing with a girl. I didn't want to create any hate for myself, but if Big Hit thought it was a good idea then I should trust them.

After our makeup and hair was done, I found a quiet corner hidden from view and took some deep breaths. We were live in five minutes and I needed a moment to build up my confidence. I knew I was ready, but Jimin's frosty attitude made my breathing hitch. 

Suddenly he appeared in front of me. I jumped.

"What are you doing?" I uttered.

"I could ask you the same thing", he retorted.

"I'm allowed a moment to myself aren't I?" I retaliated, meeting his gaze. But his eyes were softer than usual. He reached out his hand and brushed some hair from my cheek. I froze at his gentle touch. He leaned down to look deeper into my eyes.

"I'm sorry for avoiding you. And I'm sorry for when I said your dancing wasn't impressive."

I choked on my breath, startled by this change in him. His eyes were almost smiling, and some form of tenderness was breaking through his stony exterior. 

"Its fine. I just don't know why you're so harsh", I muttered.

"Take it as a compliment", he breathed. His face was closer now. I was captivated. His hand was still on my cheek, thumb gently brushing my cheekbone. His touch was addictive. In pure pathetic embarrassment, I realised I didn't want it to go away.

"Live in two minutes. Stations", the megaphone rudely announced. Jimin withdrew his hand in a flash, startled. Immediately the slight smile dropped from his eyes and his steely countenance returned. 

"Do your best", he said flatly, and left.

My heart was pounding fast in my chest, but I took a deep breath and remembered my part. With an air of scornful pride I walked to the stage opening and took my place next to Jimin. A member of staff counted down from five somewhere in the darkness and the stage wall parted. 

A shiver of excitement shot through me as a sea of fans greeted us with screams. Lights flashed over the stage and for a moment I felt blinded. 

But the music started and I lifted the mic to my lips. The crowd erupted into screams. As Jimin backed my vocals with his angelic melodies, I felt my skin tingle. The chemistry between us was exhilarating, and I stole a glance at him as we broke into the chorus. His expression was radiant and thoughtful, eyes glazed with passion. He flashed a slight smile that teetered on the edge of a laugh as the girls at the front squealed with adoration.

As we lifted our voices in melodic emotion, I felt a deep connection with him. In that moment, it was us together, creating something beautiful. Our voices blended together flawlessly, a harmony of passion.

Firey stage effects broke out around us, accompanying our crescendo. As the song closed, a rush of emotions overcame me. Jimin met my smile as he ran a hand through his hair. A smirk of satisfaction passed over his face, followed by a wink. As the fans screamed, my heart pounded in my chest at the sight of Jimin, flooded in stage lights; literally glowing, with a radiant smile.

We bowed to the fans and left the stage. His hand brushed against mine on the way out. As the crew leapt into attentive action, I grabbed a bottle of water and collapsed into a chair. Jimin stood surrounded by diligent staff, eyes closed in bliss as fans cooled his skin. I stared at the rise and fall of his chest over the rim of my water bottle, sweat coating his neck, and my mind wondered.

"Do you need me to book you a hotel for tonight miss?" Someone asked politely. 

Startled from my fantasy, I stammered, "n-no I live in the city..."

"Yes miss, but it is common for idols to stay in the nearest 5-star hotel, all expenses covered, after a performance."

I felt myself blush. "Why... is that?" I inquired stupidly.

"Well, because idols often celebrate together after a performance."

I quickly glanced at Jimin, and in embarrassment I realised he was smirking at me.

I turned back to the staff member with a pretend air of dignity. "Absolutely, please do that."

He nodded and turned away.

I looked back at Jimin and watched him walk over to me with a sinking feeling in my stomach. Had I really just looked like a complete amateur in front of him? Barely anyone had even called me an idol before.

"So, you'll be staying in my hotel."

I bit my lip. His bluntness was downright rude. And sexy.

"I think you mean you'll be staying in my hotel." I raised my brow with a sweet smile. 

He huffed in amusement. 

"Lets go then."