Chapter 3: Idol Power

I didn't know why I was sitting on the bed alone, hugging myself.

I was in a bad mood when I saw all those locks on the window.

The sky grey, and I buried my head in my lap.

Suddenly, someone stroked my head.

I raised my head and saw a little bear handing over a candy to me.

He just looked at me, his head aslant and didn't say a word.

Having the sweet candy, I smiled to him.

We sat beside the bed and looked at the sky as it gradually got clear.

***

I woke up bright and early this morning.

Renad: Thinking of visiting Kiro today, I found it a bit hard to fall asleep…

And surprisingly, I had an interesting dream. I checked the messages on my phone, checking to make sure what happened yesterday wasn't an illusion.

Yesterday night

Kiro: Found you, Miss Chips.

I rubbed my eyes, subconsciously thinking I must have seen something wrong. But Kiro's avatar is still there on my message list, with that big V beside his name. What? Is there anything wrong with being followed by a superstar?

Renad: Will… people dox me on the internet? Will I be able to work as usual tomorrow?

I posted some content about Miracle Finder before.. I hope it didn't affect the show. I took a deep breath, prepared to face any possible backlash, and then I tapped to see the 99+ comments.

Ro's Heart: Hey, Kiro followed the producer of Miracle Finder. Will I see my favorite star on my favorite show?

Others: Looking for a ticket! Who has a ticket to Miracle Finder?

Watermelon in Summer: I love this! Are you recruiting staff? I have a college degree.

Everyone is talking about Miracle Finder. What a relief. And now that I think about it, ever since Kiro started in the business, he's never had any negative press. Public opinion never goes sour on anything connected to him.

Paparazzi: Kiro Escorts Girl to Hotel Late at Night. Pics & It Did Happen.

Comment: Kiro is so considerate. So late, and he still makes sure his staff gets to their hotel safely.

Paparazzi: Exclusive! Kiro caught Napping on Film Set!

Comment: Kiro has been working so hard. He really needs some rest. He looks so cute while he's sleeping.

Comment: Our Kiro has a right to act like a diva. I'd watch him diva it up all day long!

Renad: He is like a little sun with no dark spot at all. No wonder people say he has a superpower. He really is loved by everybody…

I felt it myself today. I thought a while and replied to Kiro's message.

Renad: I still can't believe it… Are you really Kiro?

Before long, he replied.

New messages

Kiro: Of course it's me. I bet you were really surprised…

Renad: Yeah, really… but how did you find me?

Kiro: That is a superhero's secret. I cannot reveal it even to you.

Renad: ...Fine, whatever. Still thanks for following me. It's brought quite a few fans to Miracle Finder.

Kiro: That's because Miracle Finder is a great show! My fans and I have a great taste.

Renad: Haha, what a loyal following.

Kiro: Can you tell me what's gonna be on the next show?

Renad: Top secret! Otherwise you wouldn't watch the new episode.

And actually… Recently I haven't had much time to work on Miracle Finder. I'm not too clear on that myself.

Kiro: Has something happened?

Renad: Well.. right now I have this variety show in the planning stages. It's a bit thorny…

As soon as I think about that hopeless show plan, I feel discouraged.

Kiro: A variety show?

Renad: Yeah, so?

Kiro: Do you want to visit me tomorrow? I'll be taping project X.

Renad: Project X?! Really?

It's the most popular variety show in recent years. It's dominated its time slot for so long. Quite rare for this genre. It seems that they never run out of interesting ideas. To be able to visit a recording of that show? If it was a dream, I'd wake up laughing.

Kiro: Absolutely. Let me send you the address.

My mood always gets better after a talk with Kiro.

Renad: I should let Anna know that I'm going on a set visit tomorrow.

I dialed Anna's number.

Anna: Project X?! Visiting Kiro?! At this time of night-- are you sure you're not sleep talking?

Renad: ...Check social media. I'm a bit of an internet celebrity now.

Anna: … You… Alright. But don't forget that we don't have one word written for that show plan yet.

Renad: Yeah, but visiting the hottest show on TV should give me some inspiration, right?

Anna: Oh, right. City News wants us to work with them long-term. Might as well try to dig up some juicy stories. Loveland TV is our most important client right now. Keep that in mind.

*** City News 3 ***

For the new City News segment, I should interview several celebs and make it an entertainment special.

It's boring at the North Pole. Sersi has a great sense of humor along. she, an actor, is tight with me and helps me get on the set.

I still can't get close to the celebs. Perhaps I should bribe their makeup artists. Fanks, a makeup artist for many celebs, helps me get what I want.

First time in the North Pole. It's way too cold! Achoo!

*** Calls ***

Lucien: Are you in bed?

Renad: Not yet.

Lucien: There's a screening of "Manhattan" in 4k this week. You said you liked the original. Would you like to see it with me?

Renad: Manhattan? Yes, yes! of course, yes!

Lucien: Good

Renad: Hold on!

Lucien: What?

Renad: What day is the screening day? I might be busy...

Lucien: Uh- Saturday.

Renad: Oh why, why does it have to be Saturday? I wanna cry...

Lucien: You can't make it Saturday?

Renad: No, I have to visit the set of project X, trying to get more variety show experience... I'll have to miss Manhattan.

Lucien: You won't miss it.

Renad: But isn't it a one-day screening?

Lucien: In theory, but you are busy Saturday. So we'll get the showing changed to Sunday.

Renad: I don't feel right about that. I wouldn't like the sudden change if I was someone else. I really want to see it, but I can wait for another time.

Lucien (Laughs): What about an additional screening?

Renad: Huh?

Lucien: I knew you wouldn't want the date changed just for you, so I got them to add another screening.

Renad: Seriously?

Lucien: As a heart attack.

Renad: I'm so lucky! Thank you, Lucien! I won't miss my favorite movie after all!

Lucien: You are welcome, but I did it for me as well. A greet movie should be enjoyed with a special person, right?

Renad: Special person... I believe other fans of Manhattan will thank you too as more of them can see it now.

Lucien: About that... Um- I'll have to apologize to those fans.

Renad: Huh?

Lucien: The Sunday show is a private screening for just the two of us.

Renad: ...Oh, Lucien...

Lucien: You could say I don't have a lot of people to share things with. Therefore, Miss Renad, would you like to attend an exclusive Sunday screening of Manhattan with me?

Renad: Okay...

***

Remembering our parting promise last time, I specially made some pudding to give to Kiro for my visit.

Staff: I'm sorry you can't enter without a credential.

Renad: Hi, I'm the producer of Snow Fox Company. I'm here to visit the set. (Show business card)

Staff (Barely looks): A fan again? Come on, you're a student. Stop pretending. You did make a nice card though…

Anna didn't believe me, the staff doesn't believe it, and I'm now starting to doubt it too…

Renad: No, I'm not a student…

Staff: Tch! I can't stand you stalker fans. Security!

Renad (Panic): Please, I'm a reporter for City News. I have a press card and everything.

Staff (Takes card and inspects carefully): ….Journalist, huh? Certainly don't seem like one. Tch-- Come in.

Good thing I also came here as a journalist.

Renad: Thanks. Do you know where Kiro is?

Staff: Are you a journalist or a journalist fan? You can't interview a guest without a reservation. Go to the makeup room for the extras if you want to interview someone. That way. Don't wander about!

Okay, I have time anyway. I can call Kiro after I finish an interview. I happened to find something quite interesting when I entered the makeup room.

Blond kid: No private room for me? Unbelievable! Do you call this dirty dishwater tea?

Bob Utility Girl: If you're done with makeup, get out of the way. You'll probably get edited out anyway. And still so whiny.

Blond kid: To whom do you think you are speaking?

I find this pretty amusing, so I decide to get an interview with this boy.

Renad: Hello, I'm just a journalist for City News. May I interview you?

Blond kid: A person of my standing doesn't just go around giving interviews.

Bob Utility Girl: What is she thinking about… interviewing this little boy while so many stars are here?

Long-hair Utility Man: Too funny… if she asks, I'm refusing too. Can't afford to embarrass myself.

Makeup Designer: What's a journalist here? Get out now. You're disturbing our work.

I didn't expect to cause such a commotion. I made an apology and prepared to leave.

Kiro: Think it over. You won't regret it.

Crowd: Kiro!!

The appearance of Kiro instantly made the makeup room boil with excitement. But, when did he sneak up behind me!

Renad (smiling surprisedly): Kiro.

Kiro: Miss Chips, hi! We met again.

Blond Kid (Blushes): Ahem… Hello, I'm Christian. I graduated from the Royal College of Art. I quite admire your music…

Kiro: Yeah. If there's time later, I'd love to chat about music.

Blond Kid (Blinks): Re-- really?

Kiro pushed me in front of Christian.

Kiro: So do you want to let her interview you? She's my favorite producer. Doing an interview with her will get you noticed by a lot of people. What do you say?

Blond Kid (nodding excitedly): Of course! I'd love to.

Bob Utility Girl: Can I be interviewed too?

Long-hair Utility Man: And me!

Makeup Designer (Brushing her hair back): Miss journalist, would you want to interview a makeup designer?

The atmosphere has done a 180. Everyone's become so positive… Perhaps Kiro made them believe I'm a good friend of his.

Renad: Please be patient. I'll interview you all one at a time.

Kiro: Then I'll be on set. See you later.

Renad: Mm, thanks.

Kiro waved his hands with a smile and left the makeup room. Everyone in the room waved back and silently watched him leave. When I finally escaped from the dressing room, I had a pile of material collected. This experience has taught me to disguise myself a bit before going into a scene to gather information.

***

When I walked out of the makeup room and entered the set, the atmosphere was electric. Such a huge set, advanced equipment, and full crew. The producer in me was giddy with excitement…

Renad: So… this is how they coordinate the multiple cameras on the set… Each unit director has one, two, three… four assistants on hand?! Is this script with stage directions? So detailed!

This is literally heaven to me.

Renad: Ouch!

As I was immersed in the backup script O "borrowed" from the camera crew, I bumped into somebody. I checked the pudding inside the bag.

Renad: Luckily it was still there in one piece… Sorry, are you alright? (Looks up) You?!

The person I just ran into now, staring at me with withering indifference, was Victor. I never thought I would see him here. But the arrogant air on his face confirmed to me it could be nobody else.

Victor: Do you have to run into something every time you leave your house?

Renad: ...I see you weren't paying attention either.

Victor: I was wondering if this fool who was walking while reading would really bump into me.

Renad: So you just stood there?

Victor: Yes, and just as expected.

Renad: How bored you must be…

Victor looked at the files and notebook in my hand.

Victor: So what've you got there that's so engrossing?

I hid the script behind me hastily.

Renad: This is a confidential document of Project X. It's not for you.

Victor:... So you're bouncing all over the place, to take notes?

Renad: ..Yes. I'm diligent. So what?

Victor's face still had a "how can your IQ be so low" expression.

Victor: Do you need more time to write everything down?

Before he finished the sentence, everyone around us just froze. Victor had really made time stop… I looked around, not knowing what to make of it all. The shooting in the distance froze too. But amidst everyone, Kiro was looking around in great confusion. Before I had to think, everything went back to normal. I looked back at Victor, who was staring at Kiro.

Victor: I didn't think there'd be another Evolver here..

Renad: What? ...Do you mean Kiro?

Victor: If you're talking about the blond star, yes.

Kiro is also an Evolver? No kidding… I looked at Kiro. He still looked confused, but he quickly went back to interacting with the host. Maybe he thought it was a hallucination?

Victor: Throw your notebook away.

Renad: Ah?

Victor: If you want to make progress, first you have to give up your inefficient ways. So, what's the place where you can learn to set up management the best? Try to think.

Patronizing word as usual, but if I'm not mistaken, he's instructing me?

Victor: Pudding?

Renad: What?

Is he planning to take away my pudding? I got nervous.

Victor: You'd better put it in the fridge. There's a cafe nearby. Or do you want the director to taste your terrible pudding?

Renad: How do you know my cooking is bad?

Victor: Eyes on the road. Don't bump into anybody.

Victor didn't say anything more and just walked off on his own. ...Though all he said was right, I don't know why, but he is always able to make me angry. Perhaps that's every CEO's superpower?

*** Massage ***

Krio: Where were you? I couldn't find you.

Renad: I was learning stuff from other groups.

Kiro: You sure took long time to see my text-guess you must have learned a lot.

Kiro: I'm here on the street with the taco vendor. Should I send my assistant to pick you up?

Renad: No need. I'll be there in a sec.

Kiro: They are giving us a couple hours off to grab food! Come over!

Renad: I'm indeed hungry now that I'm thinking about it. I'll just put down the pudding and I'll be right there.

Kiro: Pudding? Is that the gift for me you mentioned?

Renad: Oops, guess I let the cat out of the bag.

Kiro: Ha, no matter it's for me or not, there's no escaping from me now!

Kiro: You'd better get back here as soon as possible! We need to start filming soon.

*** Variety Program 1 ***

The interviews in the dressing room not only earned me some contact but also provided me lots of new ideas for variety shows. I might try new direction in our new kids show...

I asked Cherry to get some gifts for the kids to keep them happy while filming. She buys the kids cute plushies that bring smiles a mile wide.

To ensure the safety of the kids, I also need medical personnel on the spot. Freeman is professional and great with kids.

It's a wrap. Hope everyone finds a true love.

*** Variety Program 2 ***

Everything I learned at the filming site can be used in the live matchmaking show I'll be producing later!

The contestants need to be dressed well. Arnold shall design the women's outfits. He is tight with me and helps me get on the set.

I'll also need a great makeup artist. Kyle has great rapports with the stars and hooks me up.

Well, stars are people, too albeit unapporachable people.

***

Though a little unhappy about it, I went and stored the pudding in the café as Victor suggested.

Director: Gaffer, what do you think you're doing? Shooting a horror film? This lighting scared the crap out of me! Sound, haven't I told you about the shot? We've had enough slip-ups already! If you fail again, just pack up and leave. Kiro has been waiting too long!

In the middle of everyone is a director renowned in the industry. Young. She directed the TV series that got the highest ratings in the history of Loveland TV. Later, she went out on her own, taking project X from a 0.3% rating all the way to the top of the charts.

Renad: Is this how a big director makes a show? What a terror…

Boom Holder: Right now we're shooting a promo shot for the guest, so it's naturally a little more demanding… hmph…

Renad: I see…

Boom Holder: Today, I… just gotta push harder…

Renad: You're sweating.. Your lips are pale. Are you alright?

The girl insisted she was, but she faltered anyway, and I held her steady.

Boom Holder: No, I'm just the boom operator. I can't hold up the entire crew.

Renad: Can I help you? I took a sound recording class in college. I could do that.

Boom Holder: Hmm. Okay. Thank you.

I took over the boomstick and the mic. Though I had taken classes, I'd never held a boom on a real set. Kiro stood on a high platform hooked up to a wire. He would jump off from there in a bit. Kiro seemed to see me. He waved to me in surprise. With one shoulder holding the boom mic, I waved back. Kiro then quickly waved back, gesturing to me to hold it with two hands.

Kiro ( Mouthing words from afar): Be careful.

Director Young: Rolling…

I held my breath nervously

Kiro ( Mouthing words): Don't be nervous.

You're the one about to do an action stunt…

Renad ( Mouthing words): You too.

Kiro turned around and gestured "okay" to Director Young.

Director Young: Action!

Kiro has his back to the camera. With a little flair, he tosses on a jacket and spins around. He winks at the camera then swiftly jumps off the tree, his blonde hair wiggling in the air. Kiro nimbly lands on the stage, right along the track of my boom mic. He turns and lets out a dazzling smile.

Kiro: Let me make your dreams come true.

At that moment, everyone on the stage is just background scenery compared to him. It's the first time I ever saw one of his performances. My heart couldn't help beating faster. After a short silence, a loud applause exploded.

Director Young: Good jump, Kiro! Thumbs up!

Kiro: Director Young, could we do it again? I think perhaps a crisper movement would be better?

As Kiro discusses the shot with Young, he's so focused. Not like the usual him, but captivating all the same. As if he felt me looking at him, he turned in my direction.

Kiro (Mouthing words): Keep it up!

The silent cheer traveled across the room and descended upon me, and I seemed to feel less tired. The shoot ended. Every time, Kiro would land within my mic's coverage, making my job a lot easier. Someone gently tapped my shoulder. I turned around and found it was Kiro.

Kiro: I invited you to visit the set. How did you turn into one of the crew?

Then he handed me a bottle of water, the cap half open.

Renad: Thanks, just lending a hand…

Before I finished, a PA interrupted us.

Follow PD: Kiro, get ready to shoot.

Kiro: Okay I'll be right there. (To me) Time to work!

Renad: Hmm, take care.

Kiro has a really tight shooting schedule today…

Renad: He still left some time for me… I shouldn't pester him about it.

Project X is a show that has different people carry out special tasks. Together with the director, Kiro's agent and I watched the video feed from the control room. Kiro's task was to deliver cotton candy to an old grandmother, fulfilling a memory of hers from long ago.

Kiro: Driver, could we slow down a bit? The wind is going to wreck this cotton candy!

Kiro was sitting backwards in the car to protect the cotton candy from the wind.

Tour Bus Driver: Hahaha, we're already driving pretty slow!

Kiro: Ah! Don't turn so suddenly! Slower, slower….

When they arrived, the cotton candy looked like a lopsided beehive hairdo.

Kiro: Sorry Grandma, this cotton candy looks a little weird, but it still tastes great!

Granny (Waves hand): This isn't the cotton candy I wanted.

Kiro: Don't you want to try it? I really did buy it from that old guy's shop…

Granny: Hehehe, no you didn't. I can tell just by looking at it.

Kiro scratched his head, wondering where he went wrong. He walked away from the grandma's place, pondering and eating the cotton candy.

Kiro (To the camera): I don't know what flavor that grandma wants, but this cotton candy is really good!

It was just raw footage without any editing or effects, but everyone in the film crew was amused.

Agent (A little resigned): How much cotton candy has he eaten?! He's gonna have a stomach ache again...

***

But soon, a new problem arose in the field. Fans of Kiro have swarmed the place, filling every street and alley around.

Remote Voice: Kiro, I'll love you my whole life!

The wave of sound surged closer to the camera unit.

Renad: Gosh, where did all these fans come from?

Agent: Nobody thought we'd get bogged down here… Now the news is out, the crowd of fans will only get bigger.

Security Chief: What a superstar… I've never seen such an imposing scene. We detailed 10 more security staff than usual, but it seems like it's still not enough. It's escalating…

Agent: No way. We have to get our Kiro out now, or nothing good will happen in this chaos.

I followed Kiro's agent and more security staff as they went out to the shooting location.

Agent: So many people… Where's the production van? I can't even see it!?

Security Chief: What!? I can't hear you!

Renad: Forget it. Let's try to cut through this crowd!

The security staff shouldered their way into the crowd, barely managing to carve a path for the van. The unit director, his hair a mess, was standing alongside the car blocking the door from the crowd.

Follow PD: Stand back! Kiro, don't be afraid! I'll protect you!

Agent: Is Kiro in the Van? Let's get back to the crew first. Director Young has suspended shooting.

When we opened the door, however, Kiro was nowhere to be seen.

Agent: What… Where is my Kiro?!

Follow Pd (Realizing the situation after first fixing his hair): What… Wha-- What?! Where is Kiro?!

Security Chief: No, no, no…. So many bodyguards, but we still lost Kiro…

Renad: So many people there watching. Where could he have gone?

Agent: Your crew is going to be liable for this! I told you to strengthen the security!!

Follow PD: ...Calm down, please. We will find him.

Renad: Let's spread out and search? These fans are also looking. He can't stay lost.

Agent: Yes, yes… keep an eye on social media! We'll hear something as soon as someone finds him!

Soon, "Find Kiro" was trending through the roof. Not just fans, even Kiro's assistant producer and the crew were all posting. It was like an online flood.

Agent: Try to find home before the fans do. For the sake of his safety!

The crew's staff spread around and started searching.

Renad: But with so many fans and staff, how could he just vanish like that?

I searched every inconspicuous corner around, until-- I saw a person in a bear costume in the square. It was trading a balloon with a little girl for her candy. I smiled and felt relieved.

Renad: What kind of balloon salesman in a bear costume would be trading candy with a kid?

I snuck up behind him, untied the biggest balloon he had on him, and handed it to the girl.

Renad: I can trade you for this one! Deal?

Little Girl: Oh… yeah! This one's big!

I got the candy, leaving the bear so embarrassed and angry that he started pacing around.

Renad: Hahaha…

He lifted his round hands and covered his face. He turned away and squatted down, seemingly very angry. I laughed while I put the candy into the bear's pocket.

Renad: It's yours, Mr. Bear.

This ,ade Mr. Bear happy enough to stand up, but not enough to face me. I drew closer, lifting the head of the bear until I saw the shiny eyes of Kiro.

Kiro: I won't forgive you that easily.

Having said that, he laughed happily, his eyes wet like a puppy's.

My smile froze.

Renad: So… what will it take for you to forgive me?

Kiro: You would have to do me... a favor.

Renad: What's that?

He gestured for me to stand closer, looking around warily, and whispered into my ear.

Renad: Um… Okay, deal.

*** Project X: 1 ***

I guess I'm now part of the Project X team. I'll work hard to make this program more exciting!

Kiro's wearing a mascot outfit, but can still be dangerous. Someone should watch over him. Tysona is the perfect professional for this situation!

I need someone good-looking on my team to appear in a scene. Kyle does modeling and is perfect for the job.

Running errands outside in the scorching-hot summer really takes a toll on me!

***

I snuck back to the camera unit. When I left again, I had a small portable camera in my hand. After thinking about it, I also left a note for Kiro's agent.

Slip: Kiro has been found. Don't worry. Just leave the show to us.

If we were followed by a group of staff, even in bear costumes, Kiro would be recognized in a second… And if the agent or director knew Kiro was out alone with one camera girl…

Agent: No way! What if anything happens? I'd rather not do the show then let Kiro take the risk!

Director Young: All shot on one portable camera? How would that look?! No, no, no. End of discussion.

Renad: I could picture exactly what they would say. So under the circumstances, we were forced to act covertly. Sorry, agent. Sorry, Director Young. Sorry, assistant producers… I promise I will help Kiro finish shooting the show.

With a camera in hand, I reappeared on the square with a big bear.

Renad: Kiro's Project X rides again!

I hit the record button. Kiro, in his bear costume, started talking very earnestly to the camera.

Kiro: Now, it's 2:30 in the afternoon. We only have 2 hours left. I have no more funds, and I still have no idea what kind of cotton candy that grandma wants… However, I have my secret weapon.

Kiro clumsily fumbled a candy out of his pocket with his bear paws. Behind the camera, I watched him like I was watching a reality show. It was so funny.

Kiro: The Magic Candy of Invinci-Bear. Eat it and you'll become as smart as me! Only one in the whole world!

Little Girl: Mr. Bear. I… I want it.

With his "Magic Candy", Kiro successfully traded for a pack of cookies from the girl.

Kiro: The Magic Cookies of Invinci-Bear. Get smart just by eating them.

Renad (Quietly teasing): Can't you use another line…

Little Boy: I want it! Give me those cookies and I'll give you my rubber ball!

It's really working…

Kiro: Bear's Magic Ball. With it, you can--

Before Kiro got to finish, a little dog jumped into the frame and took the ball away.

Kiro: Ahh! My magic ball!

Kiro screeched and lumbered after the dog. I tried to keep up, getting the epic chase of a dog and a costume bear all on film.

Kiro: Not so fast!

Compared to the awkward bear, the little dog looked much more nimble.

Renad: It's gone into the alley. I'll outflank it!

Kiro: Ho-ho, You're cornered now!

Puppy: Grr-- grr… Arf, arf, arf!

I thought it would be a death struggle, but instead, the pup just dropped the ball and ran off.

Kiro: Phew… Wonderful…

Kiro took off the bear head, panting heavily. He carefully cleaned off the ball and smiled at me. His brow was glistening with beads of sweat, and his matted hair stuck to his face. There's no stylist here to spruce him up, but he still looks so cute on camera…

Renad (Panting): Yeah, or else you'd have nothing to make your comeback with.

Finally… Starting from one piece of candy, Kiro managed to trade his way up to a stick of cotton candy.

Renad: How did you come up with this?

Kiro: Because I am smart and awesome of course!

Kiro lifted his bear head up and aired his face.

Renad: You're sweating so profusely.

Kiro: Well, it's a bit stuffy in here. Let me take a break…

I took out a handkerchief and dabbed the sweat off his brow.

Old Man Selling Candy: You look like you worked so hard. Here, have another on the house.

Renad: Really?

Old Man Selling Candy: Yeah take it. My grandson loves these little plastic figurines. I should be thanking you.

Kiro: Wow, we've got two cotton candies. Above and beyond the call of duty!

Renad: Mhmm, haha.

Kiro: Try some. This cotton candy is so good.

Renad: Don't you want some?

Kiro: I already ate so much of it today… way more than what my agent allows.

I hesitatingly took the cotton candy from him and took a bite.

Kiro: Good, huh?

Renad: Mmm! So delicious!

Kiro: I knew you would like it!

The old man looked at us, shaking his head and smiling. We seemed to remind him of some happy memories. Blue skies, a cute bear, and the taste of cotton candy. This will definitely become one of my happiest memories.

*** Project X: 2 ***

That was quite the experience. I wonder what will happen next?

What a hot day! Maybe Spine would know a cool, quiet place where I can rest. Spine knows everything about this city and points out the perfect location.

Kiro's makeup is coming off. Kyle spruces up Kiro's makeup within seconds.

What an exhausting day! I get tired way too easily.

***

Renad: Kiro, do you think... the cotton candy is getting smaller?

I leaned out from behind the camera and asked.

Kiro: Hmm? Really?

He looked at it through the mouth of the bear costume. We both stopped and stared intently at it.

Kiro: Ah!

He suddenly started to run.

Renad: Wha, what?

Kiro: Hurry! Hurry! It's melting!

I ran after him.

In full bear costume, Kiro trudged on all the way to the old grandma's home. When the grandma saw Kiro, she took out a lipstick, freshened up her makeup, and smiled at us.

Kiro removed his bear head and handed over a cotton candy-- stick.

Kiro: Aw... It's melted away completely! Sorry... I'll buy another one...

The grandma used her own handkerchief to wipe the sweat off Kiro's brow.

Granny: Kiro, job well done. This is exactly the cotton candy I wanted!

Kiro: Huh?

Renad: Huh?

Granny: It's a love token of my old hubby from our past. We used to buy a cotton candy and eat it on the way home. Later, after we were married, I was about 8 months pregnant, and I suddenly had a craving for cotton candy. My husband went out to get me one. It was so hot that day, it had melted by the time he got back. That out-of-breath, guilty look on his face was much sweeter than any cotton candy.

As the grandmother recalls this story, she glows with an uncommon radiance. We never imagined that we'd bumble our way into completing the task like this.

Granny: Today, Kiro bought me a cotton candy. I should take a picture and post it online to let everybody know.

The grandma quite skillfully opened various social apps, composed the messages, and sent them out. Kiro and I were both impressed.

Granny: Oh yeah, Kiro. I almost forgot. Can I get your signature? Just one will be fine. This one, "Never Forget", is my favorite album.

Grandma took out a pile of collected CDs 3 copies of each album.

Granny: One for collecting, one for listening to and one to sell to others! Everyone buys 'em like this!

Kiro took the CD from the grandma very carefully and signed his signature.

Kiro: Grandma, it's so good to have met you.

Granny: Oh, hehehe, what an adorable kid! I should be the one saying that to you!

I held the camera on one side and couldn't help smiling.

As a fan of Kiro's, every day for her must be interesting. Kiro must be very happy now.

Granny: If they knew I was a fan, they wouldn't have let me on. It was hard containing myself in front of the crew. Come, I have something to show you.

The grandma took us into a room. I was utterly shocked. It was filled with everything about Kiro, from his first debut. She had every photo of him first debut. She had every photo of him on her walls.

Renad: Who is this little boy...

Granny: It´s him at 6 when he just started. That round face. And such a solemn expression. Adorable! And here, when he was 10, performing with the king of pop. I have a tape of this. I'll show it to you later...

Renad: Hmm...

Granny: Look at this!

Renad: This must be a still photo from the "Listen" concert?

Granny: Exactly. At 15, when he had just returned from overseas. Ooowweee, hehehe.

Even at 15 he had such a unique character: clean, innocent, makes you unable to take your eyes off him.

Renad: This--

Granny: Ah, this is two years ago when he was 20. It's such a good photo that I bought 20 copies of that magazine!

In the photo, Kiro wasn't smiling, just idly looking at the camera, like an aloof kitten.

Listening to her talk, it's like I was witnessing Kiro growing up firsthand.

What I didn't notice was that while I was looking at the photos, Kiro was looking at me the whole time.

*** First Documentary ***

Our company is now experienced enough to film documentaries! My team will be heading to Antarctica to film, while I provide backup from afar.

Life in Antarctica can be boring. I need a crew member with a sense of humor! Reak is a fence and easily tracks down leads for me.

A cameraman is lost in the blizzard. I will send someone brave to find him! Tysona answers all my questions about the ancient coins.

Antarctica… wow, looks cold...

*** Second Documentary ***

The documentary was well-received. It's time to film another one! The theme should be... money!

The premise is a time-traveling youth becoming a hero. Spine is a terrific actor and perfect for the part.

I will get Jade to write the script She is both fast and good. I am very satisfied with the work.

It's good to helm a web series for the first time despite having no prior experience whatsoever!

***

After I said goodbye to the grandma, I helped Kiro in his bear costume stagger back to the camera unit.

Thinking of the grandma craning her neck to see footage I'd got on my camera, I couldn't help laughing.

Kiro looked back at me.

Kiro: What are you laughing about?

Renad: I'm thinking, when I work with Kiro, though it's a bit tiring, it's pretty fun.

Kiro: Being with you and doing something I like, makes me happy too.

The wind kicked up, sticking a few stray strands of hair to my brow. Looking off in the distance, for that instant, I had a feeling of youth. That sea breeze, from the summer when I was 17, seemed to be blowing past me again. I seem to return to that summer. I stand on the soft but solid sand, ready to embrace future.

I turn back to look at Kiro.

Renad: You, your agent, Director Young, the assistant producer, you're all so lovable. This show we're all making, it's definitely gonna be something.

Kiro: I am so looking forward to the show I'll make with you... it's gonna be so fun, right?

Renad: Yeah, it will.

We looked at each other, laughing happily.

I don't know why, but I thought of that little bear in my dream. The bear that always makes the weather sunny. Could it be Kiro?

Fan: Excuse me. Have you seen Kiro?

Big Bear and I waved our hands in unison: nope.

The fans thanked us. Kiro goaded me into taking a photo for them.

Renad: Sure.

When I took his phone, I felt something strange. There was a bump on the back. Feeling a little confused, I raised the phone.

Renad: But why should we take this photo?

The Bear mimed covering his mouth, telling me not to speak out.

Fan: Hahaha, this bear is almost half as cute as Kiro. Let's take a photo together!

There were many fans asking on the way, and I helped Kiro take photos with all of them.

When we passed an alley, Kiro suddenly stopped me.

It was a man talking with 2 girl students beside the road.

Villain Man: Are you going to see Kiro?

Kind Girl Student: Yes, you know where he is?

Villain Man: I'm with the film crew. Kiro's already finished shooting and gone back to the studio. We have strict rules. Not even entertainment reporters are allowed to enter.

Kind Girl Student: Can you get us in there?

Villain Man: Very difficult, but luckily I know some of the staff. Give me 50 bucks, and I'll get you inside.

Renad: Is this one of the film crew? He doesn't have a badge.

Kiro: And he's scamming my fans…

I saw the two girls preparing to give him the money.

Renad: The guy looks strong. Should we call for help? If we confront him, what if he tries to fight?

Kiro: Stay put. I have a plan.

Kiro in his bear costume rushed out before I could stop him.

Renad: Does he really have a plan?

Kiro walked slowly, waving his hands clumsily. He took out some fliers that were in his pocket.

Villain Man: Hey, where'd you come from? Get outta here!

The man tried to wave off Kiro with his hands. Then, Kiro suddenly threw down the fliers, took off his bear head, and plopped it over the man's head.

Kiro (Mean-faced): There! l'Il teach you to scam my fans! Having trouble seeing?

Then he turned around, grabbed me by the hand, and ran. He even picked up the fliers along the way.

Kiro: I'm not even giving you a flyer!

Kind Girl Student: Ahhhhhhhhh--Kiro!

After recognizing him, the fans screamed and chased after him. The man in the bear head, completely blinded, just ran into the wall. A girl with a ponytail gave him a good kick and took a photo.

Ponytailed Girl: Liar! You shouldn't mess with Kiro's fans!

In that ridiculous costume, Kiro ran as fast as he could, his golden hair dancing in the sunshine with big drops of sweat falling off his face. His clean, slim figure highlighted by the sun suddenly made me forget everything else.

My face was all red from running. Kiro looked back and reached out to me.

Kiro: Here, take my hand.

I smiled and squeezed his hand tightly.

Renad: Mmm!

He held my hand tightly, and I felt a warmth, like his own special heat signature.

Finally, we were somewhere more secluded. We were both doubled over, panting heavily.

Renad: You just rushed out like that for those girls... What if something would've happened?

Kiro: They are my fans. It's my duty to protect them. Actually using me to scam people…

Kiro smiled conceitedly, like a sly squirrel.

*** Call Me Hero 1 ***

The company received a commission to film a low-budget online drama. I can't make it to the shoot, but this is still a splendid opportunity!

The filming's about to start when the lead actor has schedule conflict. Sersi negotiates for you and successfully navigates the problems.

A supporting actor suffers a fracture. I am down to a crew member for backup. Lens Liz has a knack for acting and makes the series better.

It's good to start filming a web series for the first time despite having no prior experience whatsoever!

***

Soon the news of Kiro being in a bear costume spread. And those two girls who he saved also posted their tale online… And a picture of Kiro running, the bear-headed con-man lying on the ground, was all over the internet. Everyone wearing a costume in the square was besieged by fans.

Doll Bear: Don't chase me... I swear I'll never hand out another flier ad again!

Fan: Stop! Take off your head!

The costumed workers were chased, and some rabid fan would pull off their head exposing a terrified face underneath. And then the square would fill with screams of anticipation and disappointment. Two people, one tall and one short, in big hats and disguise glasses skulked around taking it all in.

Renad: Northwest, all clear.

Kiro: Southeast, no enemy detected.

Renad: Operation successful.

Kiro: Target base camp. Move out.

We walked out of some inconspicuous little shop and moved toward the film crew with our heads low.

We finally made it back, and the agent and the crew all looked ready to give us a good scolding.

Agent: Kiro! Where have you been? We were all worried sick about you!

Then the agent turned to blame me.

Agent: Why didn't you inform us when you found Kiro. What took you so long? How can we make the show now? Any bright ideas?

Kiro took off his sunglasses and stood in front of me.

Kiro: Don't worry, we already got the material.

Follow PD: What?!

I took out the camera and gave the card to Director Young. Everyone gathered around to watch what I'd shot. I was so nervous that I clenched my fists, watching the face of Young.

Kiro inched next to me.

Kiro: Don't worry. I think it's really great.

After watching the last scene, Young's face didn't get any better.

Director Young: This is shot so poorly.

I bit my lip but felt an encouraging squeeze on my hand from Kiro.

Director Young: But… The content is fun. It should do after some post-processing.

Like being on a roller coaster, I suddenly felt flattered and a little disoriented.

Kiro: I knew it would all work out!

Renad: Thank you, Director Young…

Director Young: But…

I got nervous again.

Kiro: Young, just spit it out. You keep saying "but" and it's driving Renad crazy.

Director Young: That but's for you! A star needs to act like a star! You have a responsibility to this whole crew! Do you think it's alright for you to just go missing like that?

Kiro didn't say anything as Young scolded him. He just stood there with his head hung low.

Renad: ... Kiro didn't mean it. It was a real emergency situation just then. If he didn't hide, then we'd definitely have no show today.

Director Young: Don't cover for him! You've got your own explaining to do! Kiro didn't mean it. Of course, I know. But what about you? Why didn't vou stop him? If you weren't lucky enough to get some suitable footage, what did you think you would do?

Kiro: Young, it's my bad. I told her not to tell the other crew.

Agent: Kiro. so what if the show is ruined? You're a superstar now. What you did was dangerous, you know? In the future, you are never allowed to do anything like this again.

Kiro: We are sorry…

Renad: Sorry for all the trouble we caused you…

Like students, we stood side by side and apologized. Then my stomach suddenly let out a rumble. Apart from the cotton candy, I didn't get anything to eat today… I blushed and lowered my head. Then I felt the touch of Kiro. I peeked at Director Young. She was still going on and on with the agent, like newly-found soulmates.

Agent: ..How can they be so childish.

Director Young: Yeah. You can't spoil him forever..

I looked aside surreptitiously.

Kiro: Shhh

He spread out his palm and a candy lay there like he had just done a magic trick.

I gestured with my eyes at his agent standing off to the side. Kiro winked and whispered in my ear.

Kiro: I secretly hid it. Don't let them see it. Or they will get even stricter about my diet.

Renad: Thanks…

I took the candy, and after looking at it in my palm for a while, I clenched it tight in my hand.

Kiro: Why don't you eat it?

Renad: I'd rather hold on to it..

When the agent looked the other way, he picked the candy up, peeled off the wrapper, and gave it to me. The sweetness spread, bursting with the flavor of fresh apple, mixed with joy and heartbeats.

Kiro: Sweet,huh?

Renad: Sweet.

Agent: What's "sweet"?

Kiro and I both shook our heads and couldn't help letting out a laugh.

Kiro: Can we get something to eat? We've been running around all afternoon and we are starving.

The agent looked at us, giving a helpless shake of his head. But he let us go.

It had gotten late. On a street not too far from the set, Victor walked out from a shop. A wind chime sounded gently. He stood still at the intersection, seemingly hesitating over something. Finally, he turned right and went to the café where the girl had stored the pudding. He opened the refrigerator and exchanged the pudding there with the ones in his hand.

*** Call Me Hero 2 ***

The filming for the online drama has begun! Looks like it's going well so far.

I chose Reak to do the actors' makeup. Reak is an expert who styles the actors impeccably.

I need someone to make eyedrops for the lead actress who can't cry on demand. The solution from Sersi works very well, the lead actress is crying up a storm.

The filming is going quite smoothly! It's like we've mastered a new skill.

*** Call Me Hero 3 ***

The filming is in progress. It will be done soon!

My funding is not enough and need someone lucky to to buy a lotto ticket for me. Fanks is my lucky charm and I win enough from lotto for my trip to the Mayan ruins.

It's a dangerous path to the Mayan ruins. I need protection. Freeman takes me safely to the ruins unharmed.

Can't believe such a wondrous civilization could vanish without a trace...

***

It wasn't until I left the set and passed by the café that I recalled the pudding!

Renad: Ah! I forgot!

I hastily took the pudding cups out of the refrigerator, thanked the shop owner, and ran back to the crew. At that time, a white production van was passing by.

Renad: Good, Kiro hasn't left yet.

I waved to the van and it slowed. but soon the crowd of fans beside drew closer. The driver flashed his lights, seemingly to say sorry. Then the van sped up and left.

Renad: Aww... He left… (Looking at the pudding) When will we meet again..

Just then, I received a call from Kiro.

Kiro: Sorry, I can't give you a lift home.

Renad: It's okay. Your safety is more

important. I think nobody wants to lose you again.

Kiro: That was so we could save the show. I wasn't trying to make them worry on purpose.

Renad: Yeah, yeah. I know!

Kiro: You've had a busy day. Get some rest back home.

Renad: Mmm, you too.

Kiro's so considerate, and there really are so many fans. It's safer for him to leave.

(Notification chime) Just as I hang up my phone, I receive a message.

Kiro: I forgot, I have something for you. Stay where you are. My agent is on his way.

Kiro has something for me?

While I was still wondering what it could be, Kiro's agent arrived.

Agent: We should thank you for your work today.

Renad: I was happy to help. I almost caused a huge mess… Oh right-- please give this to Kiro. It's something I promised him last time.

I handed the paper bag to the agent. hope Kiro likes the pudding I made.

Agent: Kiro wants me to give you a ride so you can get home and have a rest.

Renad: Thanks.

I cannot help appreciating how considerate Kiro is.

After I got in the car, I saw a wrapped box. Inside were candies, cookies, and chocolates neatly arranged. They were all the snacks we traded in the afternoon. There was even a cake in the shape of a little ball.

Renad: When did he have time to prepare all these?

I opened the cookies. The small, creamy cookie melted instantly in my mouth. The sweetness buoyed my mood and filled my chest with warmth.

I went back home, took a bite of candy, and opened up my phone. Under top headlines was a post from Kiro. The photos attached were all ones I took for him this afternoon. Kiro had very carefully covered up the faces of his female fans with a cute sticker.

Kiro: "You didn't realize it at the time, but we've met before."

The comments were all envy and praise.

Hot First: Kiro, you're the best idol in the world!

In the center of posted photos was me trading my balloon with the girl for the candy.

Renad: Being a fan of Kiro's is just too happy…

When did he take this?

I tapped to view the full picture and admired it a while, then saved it.

The world's best idol. What he brings to fans is not an illusion but real happiness and excitement. Even if he can't interact with everyone, Kiro is telling them: we might meet at any time.

Renad: It's the same with a good variety show, I guess.

A revamped version of that singing show gradually formed in my mind. As I was sorting out the details about the revised show, a message from Kiro arrived.

*** Massage ***

Kiro: I love this pudding! Isn't it from Souvenir? How did you manage to get it?

Renad: What Souvenir? I made it myself.

Kiro: You don't know about Souvenir?

Kiro: That's incredible. You made a pudding that tastes just like the kind from Souvenir!

Renad: Just like Souvenir? What kind of restaurant is that?

Kiro: It's one of my favorite restaurants! I'm a huge fan!

Kiro: You need to try it if you get a chance!

Renad: You're making me more and more curios!

Kiro: Then let's pray that it opens soon!

I'll call you then.

***

Lucien stood on the balcony, his home now empty and his bags all packed up. In his hand is a group photo taken in an orphanage. When alone, his face usually shows no emotion. But when he looks at the girl in the photo, his brow creases ever so slightly.

In his special police uniform, Gavin is ready to head out. He opens his phone and brings up the chat session with the girl. Type, delete, type, delete... Gavin hesitates awhile, finally choosing to put the phone back in his pocket.

Victor's home. He walks out of the bathroom and spots the pudding on the dining table. He opens the package and takes a bite. After a while, he slowly spits out one word.

Victor: Uhh….Awful.

With that being said, he still sits down and finishes the puddings grudgingly. Holding an empty pudding cup, Victor looks into the night sky, seemingly recalling something.

Kiro lying on a carpet plays on his phone. He reaches for more pudding, only to find the bowl empty. He puts down the phone and stares at the ceiling, buried in deep thought.

After a long time, he sits up, opens his laptop and starts composing an email. Recipient: Doctor X

Kiro: It's been a while. My Evol seems to be changing. Should I be concerned?

The light of the laptop reflected in his clear eyes adds a sense of mystery.

I finally finish the first draft of the show and stretch my body over the desk. The summer night breeze blows in, bringing a refreshing coolness.

I turn off the light and slip under the cozy quilt. I imagine the dream to come will be a sweet dream.

*** Call ***

Victor: I got your new proposal.

Renad: Who's calling me at two in the morning? That dream was just getting good.

Victor: It's me.

Renad: Vi… Victor? But I didn't send it to you…

Victor: You CC'ed me on it.

Renad: Geez, sorry! I was sending it to

Anna… I don't know how you got

CC'ed.. Maybe I did it in my sleep..

Victor: You certainly do seem to be asleep at the wheel.

Renad: Huh?

Victor: The draft was atrocious and full of holes. If you can't even manage this, you should back out of the funding agreement with LFG now. Because you can't even meet the bar minimum.

Renad: … I know it's just a rough draft, but the staff and I worked all day pouring our hearts into it. It probably lacks sophistication, but it can't be that bad, right? I…

Victor: If you hadn't CCed me by mistake, you'd still be asleep, dreaming. Your error has cost me time, and caused you trouble.

Renad: ..Sorry. I'll do a good job on this proposal, and I will not make this same mistake again.

Victor: One week.

Renad: Huh?

Victor: You have one week to get my approval.

Renad: You're reviewing it personally? Isn't that the project committee's job?

Victor: You have to accept the consequences for CCing me.

Renad: Okay…

Victor: Waste my time again and I'll have no more patience for you.

Renad: Understood. I know you mean well, but don't underestimate me that much. One week. That means I still have seven days. I can turn around anything in seven days.

Victor: Remember what you just said and don't disappoint me.

Renad: Just be ready to be surprised!

Victor: …Fool.

Renad: Hey, why are you so mean all the time?

Victor: For your job's sake, I'll pretend I didn't hear that.

Renad: ..Yes, sir. I didn't say a word. Please, sir, can I go back to sleep now?

Victor: Yes. Uh, wait, hold on.

Renad: What is it?

Victor: That pudding today, did you make it yourself?

Renad: What? The pudding? Yeah, of course. What's the matter?

Victor: No reason. I just never would've guessed you knew how.

Renad: I don't exactly know my way around a kitchen, but making pudding is my specialty. I've been doing it since I was a

kid. Speaking of that, why are you so

interested?

Victor: Nothing. Remember, you have a week. Bye.

Renad: Hello? Hello? Why do you always insist on having the last word?