Go and Stop Forward

The concert venue line was already packed with numerous audience members for tonight's show. I have a few hours left until the show starts. I should have more than enough time to get everything ready.

Showtime will be in two hours, and my tasks shouldn't take long to do. I will have to maintain the sconce lights. Apparently, one of the workers had a fear of heights. They were put on changing the bulbs duty, and they only replaced half of the sconce lights. I wonder whose bright idea it was to put the worst person on the job up above. No pun intended.

My next task is conducting a series of tests on stage equipment, lights, screens, backdrops, more lights, etc. This shouldn't be too hard. I just need a spotter and I'll get the lights done.

Finally, I will have to do a quick inspection of the stage and backstage areas. This includes bathrooms, makeup rooms, and the guards being in proper places. I let out a sigh, how troublesome. I'd rather be in the front row seats, away from working with the techs. I just need to change out of my stage clothes and pretend I am one of the audience members, so I don't have to pay for my ticket. I'm sure boss can give me the ticket discounts for free.

I excused myself through the crowded line to get past and made my way to the backstage door. I just remembered I previously left my backpack of clothes in my personal locker, so this will be more than perfect. When I first entered in, I was deeply in awe. Everyone is already hard at work!

"Akira ssi, how's it going? You were almost a half hour late, were you held up by some bunnies?" A middle-aged man came up to me. We both bowed to greet each other. I am happy to see him, because he is the one cutting the check for me.

"I am doing fine, however, I don't seem to recall I was in contact with such furry creatures. I was... enjoying the view around the park. How about you, Chang-ho nim?" I trailed off. Yes, I know full well what he meant. I thought he views me much higher than that, what a shame.

Chang-ho nim rolled his eyes. "I've told you to drop the formalities between us and your coworkers, you have been more than help for us. By the way, our technician was impressed by your color choices for the backdrop, the iris and azure colors makes a beautiful combination. And the kaleidoscope pattern for the front stage screens are beau-ti-ful! What shade of purple did you use for the animated screens? And what was the animation you used for the background screens?"

"It's called 'Russian Violet', a beautiful purple color. I knew you were the right boss for the contract. Any brilliant mind would notice my contributions for the venue," I smirked. He gave me a deadpan and then let out a hearty laugh. "You little rascal, you're trying to butter me up for a bonus on that check. If money is an issue, I'd be happy to provide for you." I shook my head.

"No, I can't accept money from you. Besides, you need the money more than I do. I'm under the impression you are saving money for retirement." I did a subtle jab at his age. His appropriate response was rolling his eyes and motioned me to change the sconce lights.

.o0o.

*Alright, what do we have here?*

Most of the sconce lights are misaligned; it must be the reason why it was blinking periodically. One other complaint was that somebody had forgotten the box of light bulbs on the walkway. No one seemed to care enough to get the boxes out of the way. Nobody expects a light bulb to fall on them, I guess. According to the notes, the sconce lights on stage right were blinking. I went to the far side of the walkway and replaced the bulbs as I went. As for the poor light bulbs, it can be discarded in the waste bin and let the janitors handle it. This whole process took about half and hour with a quarter to go because I had to do test lights and replace some more faulty ones. The spotter saved me more than enough time to get through the lights.

I climbed down, a clipboard was already waiting for me on the stool. From the looks of it, it has a series of checkboxes for me to observe the front stage and backstage. Yay.

Come to think of it, the front stage is huge; the venue is about the same size as the NBA's basketball stadium. This might take a while. I have to walk around a bit to identify anything that is out of place. Like how this corner piece isn't connected to its adjacent piece. I made sure it was steady, so I put some weight onto my steps over the piece to make sure it was secure. And of course, I had to check for the whole stage to see if any piece was loose. If I do fall, hopefully I can pay it off with my check. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger.

All that is left is the backstage, so I need to-

"Excuse me, Akira, do you have a moment?" A female voice called to me. "There has been news that we will require you on another task for the front stage." I turned my head to it, and it looked like, what the- Raven-haired girl and a dude?

"I assume you two have backstage passes, otherwise I need to kick you guys out to the line. I suppose it is nice to see you again, Mindy." I spoke as I turned back to my clipboard.

"It's Minji. And this is one of my friends, Ji-hun. We've come to ask you for a favor." Minji gave me an eyeful look that pierces my soul. Ji-hun is wearing a navy blue jacket with a black shirt underneath. He has brown pants on with some sports shoes and a red hat to top it all off.

"And what would this favor be?" I raised an eyebrow. As in cue, Ji-hun spoke in a rapid manner, "can you dance with the girl group on the stage tonight. I really liked your rendition of a certain choreography you did."

"...Huh?"

Minji facepalmed and chuckled at my indifferent look. "What he's trying to say is, he wants you to dance. The group that will be performing tonight will pick some audience members to either vibe or just take over the song. So that he is able to impress-." Ji-hun covered her mouth and looked a bit embarrassed.

"Please dude, I need you to do this, I don't want to make myself look like a fool. Uhh, pretend we are friends, and we'll cross that bridge." Now, I'm starting to feel a bit skeptical here. What is this tomfoolery? I set my clipboard aside and gave Ji-hun an indifferent look. I suppose I could stoop to their level and listen.

"Ok, I'll level with you. Let's say I get to do this 'favor' of yours, but I can't give you a proper response lest you give me a proper answer." I stated as a-matter-of-factly.

"He wants to impress a girl with his dance moves, and so he requires you to be the next person to dance. So that he won't be the only one... feeling, you know...?" Minji played with her hair; she's taking this thing to a whole new level. I have never seen someone's face be redder than their hat. Ji-hun is looking at Minji accusingly.

I crossed my arms. "What's in it for me? You are asking to do a lot here, I'm already busy with the preparations for the show. Also, how were you guys able to come onto stage here? The venue doesn't open until an hour and half. You're telling me to dance because you don't want to be the person being embarrassed on stage?"

Ji-hun folded his arms and simply looked at me.

"What's your price, Akira?" Ji-hun spoke tersely. "I'll have you know I was voted to be the 2nd handsomest classmate in my elementary school days, p-pal." Now this guy got me scratching my head. If you're going to make your case, I suggest you don't fumble your own words.

"First off, handsomest isn't even a word. And I seriously doubt you got the money to pay for me, you won't come close to even match the check my boss is offering me. Besides, knowing you, you probably went to go buy you and your S.O. front row seats passes, hoping, she enjoys the show more than you do. This isn't exactly the cheapest venue I recall. As it wasn't obvious enough, I really don't have an interest in doing this favor for you. There's plenty of dancers you can find, I'm sure you have some other person or friend you can ask. Do I make myself clear?" Each word coming from me must've hit their mark on Ji-hun. Minjis knowing and amused smile confirmed my suspicions. It has to be the sundress chick I'm guessing. Wait- what is this buffoon doing?

He let his left leg travel slowly outwards. He leaned his face backwards; he flexed his right hand into an open palm, facing towards me. His left hand is flexed into a palm, fingers pointing up to his chin. "Do I look like I'm the embarrassing type? I'm beautiful Akira, you aren't giving this beauty enough credit." Ji-hun stated proudly. Minji's laugh was masked by her palm and my eye started to twitch at Ji-huns theatrics.

"See, that is exactly my problem. I don't want people to associate us together, please excuse me I must get going. You two should leave, the guards won't be merciful as I am." I turned away to exit towards backstage.

"You won't do it because you are scared? Right?" Minji stated. That got me to stop in my tracks. I let out a deep exhale and I turned to Minji's smug look. Ji-hun tried to look equally smug, although his desperate eyes betrayed him.

"Are you perhaps referring to how I have stage fright?" I asked evenly. Minji snickered.

"No, I just said you won't take up on his offer because you're scared." Minji further added.

"Of?"

"Well, he has the guts to dance with idols while you don't. I know what you do, you're more of a backstage person than a performer, the definition of cowardice. I bet if you stood under the stage lights too long, you'll melt." If Minji is trying to convince me, she's doing it right, unfortunately. However, her masked insults do not bother me, her greatest weapon is the great faced tomato

These two are awfully persistent. "Tit for tat, I suppose you have a better offer than your male companion here. Or is this some sort of I.O.U?"

"It can be but that is not the point. My point is, you dance on stage and knowing you, you won't have much trouble impressing the idols and the audience members with your rendition." Minji said confidently. "I've seen it too, it's like you don't dance on 1 to 8 counts. It's like you react to the snares, synths, vocals, drums, beats, etc. Like you're totes possessed, and where does all that energy come from?"

"The thing is, I feel like you don't know that you know you're special. I know what you did to help my friend on retriving her purse. That was hot, talk about Mister-sweep-you-off-your-feet." Minji continued. Now she has my full attention. No, I'm not talking about the sweep talk.

"Your point? Flattery will get you nowhere, besides, I'd be lying if I said I like the reptitive nature of these... 'high school love' songs. I'd be doing a disservice to them if I pretended to be in awe or oversell my reactions like your regular korean game shows." I fixed her with an even look; neither me nor her blinked. She broke the tension with her smirk.

"You're right on both parts but, you really don't realize it do you? It's actually one of the few songs, I've seen you dance to and knowing you so far, you don't really like a lot of kpop songs. But when you do like them, you create something that is amazing." Minji replied back, it sounds like she's scheming.

So she's not one of those byungshins that will cut you if you say anything that opposes their obsession. She is level-headed and craft. Ji-hun doesn't have anything in his head, but all that foolishness is what makes his heart strong. There's this one other fact, I never even came into public to announce, 'hey, you're friendly boy knows how to dance to the kpop songs'. I can only recall one or two incidents where I joined a large busking group, but I made a case to cover my face with a hat and facemask. Fun memories, but who needs fun?

"Minus the fact that I should be disturbed on you buttering me up, and how I don't recall sharing my dancing experience with you two," I gave both of them my full attention, "I'll do it, now both of you leave before I change my mind. I will dance to the best of my abilities, you have my word." My eyes were closed when they came in for a double hug. They're really trying to sell this thankful act.

"Yes! Thank you so much Akira, you are truly-" Ji-hun began. I held up my hand to cut him off.

"Save it, who even is this group you're freaking out about." I rubbed the bridge of my nose.

"I'm glad you asked, the girl group is... drumroll please Ji-hun" Minji began.

.o0o.

It was a slap on the wrist; my boss gave me some scolding for letting some strangers on stage. Some of my co-workers were giving me funny looks as I shoo'd the two hooligans to their assigned front row seats. Well, that is after I escorted Minji to the backstage as she picked up a large paper board. It looks like one of those light-up signs she made.

I managed to change into my casual outfit for the night. I am currently wearing a black shirt from a designer store I bought a few weeks ago, some vanta black pants, and white Nike Cortez. I did not forget my white bucket hat and my face mask. I figured I should dress comfortably, so I am able to have my full range of motion on stage. I made a case to cover myself. I'm not too fond of the idea of me blowing up on the interwebs.

The venue is already jam-packed packed; there are an LOT of female audience members buzzing with conversations. I have to brace myself for my ears sake. I am more than relieved I got to finish my tasks, but I was playing babysitter to see if Minji or Ji-hun were messing around. Every once in a while, I catch them looking at me and laughing at me. It's a good thing they are able to find enjoyment at the expense of others. I'll be the killing joke just for them, that got them to stop messing around and shutted up quick.

"Are you getting sleepy? It'd be a shame to see you fall over on stage when you're dancing." Minji teased. Has anyone informed you, that your sense of humor is lacking?

"I'm more curious if they are going to perform their new song. Some of their songs sound the same, wonder why love is such a common trope in kpop songs." Ji-hun added. He's right, will they perform it? I hope so since that is one of the few kpop songs I like from the genre. I'd get crucified if I admitted I don't like the genre in this saesang community. Whatever, they can boo me, I've seen what makes them cheer.

"Will you be performing that song Akira? I can't wait to see this on stage." Ji-hun asked hopefully. I shrugged.

"It's up to them really, assuming we get picked do we perform with limited time or do we have to follow their choreo?" They both nodded at my thoughts and seemed to think about it too. "What's with that sign Minji?"

"Oh this? You and Ji-hun will find out soon enough. Look, just focus on killing it on stage." Minji spoke, she set down her board and started to rub her hands together and chuckled darkly. If it wasn't for her colorful hoodie and white shorts, she'd be the innocent yet, evil woman in existence. Now, I'm starting to regret giving them my word. Ji-hun has been practicing his moves on the side. He suddenly stopped, and waved over somebody to come our way.

"Thank you so much for coming with me to this show, I finally get to watch the girl group up close at front row seats," Hyo-joo stopped for a second and looked at me.

"Ahahaha, it's no trouble really," Ji-hun rubbed his head. He then looked at me. Hyo-joo had the biggest smile on her face.

"I recognize that black frizzy hair of yours and that dark demeanor, you're that guy who took back my purse from that tto-rai old man!" Hyo-joo took my hands and held it up. "I must ask your name, I want to hear it from you!" She is dressed in her casual wear. Looks like a bright blue sweater, two rainbow bracelets on her right wrist, and white pants. She is carrying a bag of goodies; it has different names printed on them. The stadium is a bit dark so it's hard to get a read on them. Looks like there are five total presents.

"Call me... Akira, an unexpected pleasure to meet you again. Are those presents for the meet and greet?" I asked politely. Her positivity is charming; her golden locks and her smile can brighten up a room.

"Heck yeah it is, Ji-hun has been kind enough to get us front row seats. Did he get you one too?" Hyo-joo asked.

"No, he just works here, his work lets him enjoy the idol shows at a discounted price. Except this time, his boss convinced him to stay here and even paid for his seat with us. Even a guy like him, can enjoy things in life." Ji-hun let out an exaggerated laugh, as if he was trying to get a laugh from Hyo-joo, and it certainly worked.

We made more small talk by asking each other what our likes and dislikes were. I commented on how I'm not too privy to a lot of kpop songs, and especially the ones that have the high school vibe repetitiveness. Hyo-joo was a bit disheartened, but she was kind enough to say the genre is not everyones cup of tea. That's one way to put it, and it won't be changing my views anytime soon. Do idols even like what they put out? I guess that's one of the many reasons why they're so miserable.

The lights started to dim and light up repeatedly. The show is soon about to begin. The crowds started to cheer, scream, and yell. Well, let's see if they pick me. Minji previously asked me which song I liked the most.

"Nugu ilkka ...?" Minji smirked even wider, she started to jump up and down. I pointed down to make her stop jumping. She pouted and then turned away with a huff. Ji-hun and Hyo-joo looked at me quizzically. I merely shrugged. I will admit it. I wonder how they will react when I come onto stage. Her earlier compliments on how I have no trouble impressing the idols. I concur.

Hey! Hey! Hey! Yo!

Woah,  beep beep

Hey,  hey, hey, hey, hey, hey

The crowd cheered even louder; the sconce lights were shining onto all five of the ladies on stage. It was deafening because I couldn't hear what Ji-hun and Hyo-joo were freaking out about.

I see that I'm icy

(Go rising up up)

I  see that I'm icy

When I got a good look at them, each of them had their own unique outfit. But the common color scheme was black, slick pants that purple. Slick leather pants, some unique crop top designs in which some areas of the shirts are cut. I should be thankful to the fashion designers for giving the idols low-top boots for the girls.

Call me crazy, but I have an irrational fear of seeing a dude try on high-heels and one misstep can mess up your ankle.

Icy but I'm on fire

Nae ane inneun dream nan jasinisseo

Nal bwa I'm not a liar

Neoui teure nal matchul mameun eopseo

Dance!

I must've missed some parts of the song since I was a bit distracted with my thoughts. Fans were cheering like crazy, ITZY really getting down on the floor and dancing.

They keep talkin'

"I KEEP WALKIN!" The crowd gave a good cheer.

The ITZY members made a hand sign near their mouths, signifying whoever talking to them is just pure nonsense.

(Dadeul blah blah)

Cham mal manha nan gwaenchanha

(Gyesok blah, blah)

They keep talkin' I keep walkin'

Now they're in a trapezoid pattern, their left leg extended and shaking it along with the music. They broke off into a single file line formation. If I remember correctly, this is Lia and Yunas part.

Ring, ring, ring, ring ullyeo all day long

Modu nal chajneula bappa

I noraega your favorite song

(Sidenote: I'm not going to go over the whole song and dance, I'm going to assume ITZY fans have seen the choreography and heard the song. I will try my best to illustrate what I'm seeing and how I can describe their movements. Why did I chose this song? I have no clue.)

Few seconds have passed, and here is the Break. I subconciously bobbed my head along with their dance. Fast 8 counts have always been a sight to see.

[Break Instrumnetal]

Right heel closed in and then left heel closed in. Bringing it all together, flaunt a bit with your hands.

Hey!

ITZY members extended their legs, both of their heels hit the ground, and made a triangle shape. They brought it together and flexed their elbows and their fists hit their sides. They are now in a crouching position and gave big smiles to the crowd. At this point the fans are going crazy over their dance moves.

Shake it!

They gave a quick twerk and then gathered in a standing, but different trapezoid formation. They crossed over their arms and brought it outwards as they took a step forwards. They extended their arms far out to their sides, brought it in and their faces lit up as their arms traveled up.

Yeah!

Deo deo ppalli dallyeo

Don't care what they say

One of the girls with the braided pigtails quickly walked behind the group of 4 girl formations as they rolled off to the lyrics. And then struck different poses. Soon, the dance finishes as they do their chorus combo. I haven't gotten the chance to know their names, but tall girl #1 and tall girl #2 are killing it. The two other munchkins have brighter smiles than before. Pigtails girl walked behind the second tallest member. All four reached out to the center girl as she shrugged. It looked like they were making a crown. Seems there is only one term that can perfectly sum up performance.

"GO OFF QUEENS! DAAAANG That neck snap though Yuna!" Hyo-joo and Ji-hun clapped together. The stadium erupted in applause. I gave them a clap as well. The visuals, the choreography, the singing, and the empowerment from the crowd was a chefs kiss.

The idols on stage took a few moments to regain their bearings and stood in their crown position before they resumed their next song. This will be a long night. I suppose I can stick around for a bit.

.o0o.

Many songs have passed; the crowd is still energetic. As for the performers, they are trying their hardest to perform. I have to commend them that they can dance and sing at the same time, and being able to do it for long periods of time is even more impressive.

The ITZY members looked at each other and gave each other a tired smile. The darkened stadium soon turned bright as the show went on. Numerous neon signs were around the stadium; the main message from each sign was "heart" and "ITZY". Minji is holding up the sign as tall as she can. I get she's trying to get the idol groups attention, but Ji-hun is consoled by Hyo-joo, trying to say he can do this. I was curious on what was on the sign. I took a good look at Minji's sign; it read, "ITZY, IT appears 2 cute boys want 2 dance with ITZY SONGS". A really big, no- an enormous neon sign Minji was able to hold up for the past half and hour. I gave her a quizzical look; in return, she gave me a sheepish smile. I lifted my arm to help Minji hold the sign up. The leader of the group stepped up with microphone in hand, and spoke to the crowd.

"Hey guys and gals. It's me, Yeji." Ah, the pigtailed girl is Yeji. If I recall correctly, Minji told me Yeji is the leader of ITZY and the one with the adorable pigtail hair, she has it in a french braid. The crowd cheered for her; this lasted for a long moment until she spoke again.

"As you all know, myself and the rest of my lovely friends decided that we are going to pick one or two audience members and have them come up stage to dance with us. But since you guys have been really awesome, we have time to extend that to three audience members for tonight!"

The crowd let out cheers; this turn of events got some audience members murmuring to each other. I almost forgot about the guards standing near the stairs leading up to the big stage. They are remaining vigilant for any funny business that might arise. You can never be too careful.

All five members walked around to scan who they wanted to pick to dance with them on stage. Suddenly, Ji-hun appeared to my right; my natural response was to shimmy to my left. "Dude, seriously? I want to say good luck to the both of us." Ji-hun gave me a frown.

"You stopped shaking Ji-hun, and also, we might need luck if we are going to be picked to get on stage. I assume you are ready? " I replied with a light smile. Ji-hun nodded.

"I can do this, I know I can. If you can do it, I might have trouble going last or first. I just don't know man." Ji-hun scratched the back of his head and them massaged his temples.

"The way I see it Ji-hun, you've come this far and you can't turn back. Is this really how far your resolve can go? I suggest you stop worrying, give it a rest. You've been practicing your moves during the whole show, I'm confident that you can dance. So show it Ji-hun. There's no room for doubt, but there is room for error. You won't do it perfectly, and you being nervous is unbecoming." Ji-hun was about to respond to my insult. "However, you have a good heart, a loveable fool. You might be thinking the choreography you're doing is normal, it won't stop you from being great." I finished. My head was held high, my shoulders were even, and my back was straight. I had my arms folded and I looked at him expectantly. Ji-hun had lost his words, but he looked down with a grinning smile on his face. He fixed his red hat and stood proud. Looks like my words have invigorated him. He doesn't see it, but I have a knowing smile underneath my facemask. Minji, Hyo-joo, and some nearby denizens stopped and we're all looking at me. "What? Was my speech out the ordinary?"

"You! The boy with the red hat and the gallant noir person. Yuna and I have chosen you to be our dancers! Yeji, Chaeryeong, and Ryujin have selected theirs, come on up to the stairs!" A petite girl with a ponytail and her tall companion are looking in our direction. Minji gave an excited shriek to Hyo-joo and she responded in kind. Looks like the neon sign got the idols attention.

"Let's do this," I gave Ji-hun one final encouragement before I made my way up the stairs. Okay, here goes: shoulders, back, arms even, and at my sides, head straight, and an even chin. Ji-hun followed suit, looks like he wants to mimic my walk as well. As I was walking to the stage, I was wondering who the third person they picked. A nearby guard told me and Ji-hun to put our hands up as they went ahead to search us for any harmful belongings. Soon, they let us both onto the stage when the checkpoint was resolved.

A few seconds later, Ji-hun and I were ushered to a specific spot where the audience and the idols have a good look at us. The guards went back to their original positions when they were done. I arrived at my designated spot. I was surprised to see someone was already on stage. She turned around and looked at me.

"Are you ready? Actually I shouldn't be asking that, you look like you get stuff done. Your companion looks a little worse for wear." The girl quipped. I raised an eyebrow and turned to Ji-hun. Sure enough, he's a bit docile and his eyes are fixed towards center stage.

"He'll live, he's already made up his mind on performing. I'm not concerned and neither should we, let's give it our all I guess." I replied. She hummed and nodded.

"Most of that was from my first impressions of you, take it as you will. That was just me taking your mind off of your doubts. You got picked so cut the chatter, and start empowering yourself. If I were you, I would go first or second, so you're able to get it out of the way." I reassured. To be honest, this was my way of saying my performance would overshadow his. I don't mind going last. I think it's better to let them shine.

Ji-hun nodded and took deep breaths to get ready. I got a tap on my arm; it's from the girl on my left. "Can I help you?"

"If you don't mind me asking, your name was Akira yes?" The girl asked thoughtfully. I nodded at her. "What a pretty name, you are a Japanese native by chance?"

"Partly, I was born in South Africa. My mothers side is Japanese, my father is South African. I would name what parts I am but basically, I am a melting pot and it would take a while." She smiled and had a contented face. Her skintone was ivory; she had an even look with her brown eyes, and her blonde hair was tied up to a bun. She was wearing a blue crop top with a gray undershirt, orange sweatpants, and a white hoodie tied around her waist.

"My name is Annie," she extended her hand to me. I took it and shook her hand. "I hope we get along just fine after this dance performance." Before I got to ask why not, the microphone feedback interrupted me.

"Alright guys and gals, looks like we got ourselves some lovely guests for tonights perfomance." Yeji spoke and looked over at us, giving us encouraging smiles. Annie snorted next to me. Ji-hun, on the other hand, couldn't help but blush. My hands were fixed behind me. I chuckled to myself at Ji-hun's cute facial response. "So, I'll start with you, what's your name?"

"It's uh, Ji-hun! My name is Ji-hun, I'm pleased to be on this stage." He did a slight bow to her; he almost fumbled both his words and his greeting. The crowd was laughing with him. Come on, Ji-hun, maintain yourself in these moments. Yeji hummed a bit before asking him another. "Sooo, talk to me, how are you feeling? You look a bit nervous."

Ji-hun shook his head and puffed his chest out. "I'm not at all nervous, I can't contain my own excitement on stage. I'm currently with really talented individuals so I'm just really happy." The crowd clapped to Ji-huns compliment. Yeji raised an eyebrow and smiled at him. The sconce lights are beaming down at his face; his red hat can only mask his embarrassment. She nodded and then moved to interviewing Annie.

"What is your name?" Yeji asked. "By the way, you look really pretty, I got to know where are you from sister?" Annie feigned a surprised look; this got Yeji to chuckle, and Annie joined in too. Yeji pointed the mic at Annie.

"I was born in Wansan-gu district, I basically grew up there for all my life. My name is Annie and I'm ready to showoff what I learned from you. I'm not worried, because me and you we are a cut above the rest." I remained motionless, but I had to look down a bit. Annie sure knows how to mince words that stroke her own ego and Yejis.

*Hmph..* I gave a light chuckle and looked straight ahead.

"Oh my, I'm from Wansan-gu too! I look forward to your performance then, good luck and you go girl!" Yeji clapped and the other ITZY members followed too. The crowd was loving Annies energy, her confidence, and how she is also from Wansan-gu district. So that's why she said her and Yeji are a cut above the rest. The houses and temples are extremely beautiful and give off this relaxing feeling. Curvy roofs, also known as Noyanes, is a Japanese term. The curvy roofs are believed to ward off evil spirits from entering the building. Maybe I'll pay the Wansan-gu district a visit and see what it's like over there.

"Hello?" I stopped looking ahead. A voice rang down and I looked to the source. Yeji stepped back a bit, and had her hand on her chest. Some of the ITZY members were laughing at her for being startled. It seemed like I was daydreaming. Anyways, I looked down at Yeji and to be honest, she looked very beautiful. Her makeup artists knocked it out of the park. The eyeliners are sharp; her pale complexion shines brighter under the lights; there's some foundation around her cheekbones to elevate her eyes. "Good evening Yeji." I answered and I bowed towards her. The crowd definitely liked that. Yeji looked back at her group and they too were murmuring to each other.

The leader of ITZY is now intrigued; she smiled through the earlier awkward silence. "Good evening to you too... um, what is your name and how you are feeling tonight?"

"You can call me Akira. I am feeling alright now that you're here. I have been chosen by one or two of your bandmates to dance." I tilted my head, so my gaze could meet the other four ITZY members. "Since they have bestowed me this rare opportunity, I will not disappoint."

Annie shot me a look that just said, "really?". Ji-hun clapped at my formality. Yeji, on the other hand, was taken aback; she gave me a nod of approval. Her smile wasn't as tense before. Ease up woman, you can freak out later. "Wow. you really know how to smooth talk! I will be looking foward to your performance." She gave me one final once-over and then gave me a wink. I simply nodded my head and had my hands tucked behind me. I looked around and spotted both Minji and Hyo-joo. Minji stroked her chin and gave me a nod of approval. Hyo-joo is rubbing her hands together, giving me a mischievous smile. Ah, it looks like Hyo-joo is gone too.

Anyways, Yeji dropped the question of the day for the Annie, Ji-hun, and me.

"So, who likes to go first?" Yeji looked at us. And then Annie looked at me. I looked at Ji-hun, and Ji-hun was looking at Hyo-joo. Annie looked like she wanted me to go first, but I shook my head. I directed her to Ji-hun. She understood my message and went over to Ji-hun. I stepped back to show Yeji I'd be going last; she understood and walked over to the edge of the stage.

"Alright everyone, it looks like our friend here Ji-hun will be performing "Not Shy" for us. He has requested to start on the second verse. Give us a signal whenever you are ready Ji-hun. You can do this."

"Oh come on man! Don't you dare blue-ball us." Minji shouted. If it weren't for my face mask, my lips would be curled and my eye would be twitching at the snide comment. I steadied myself and straightened out my clothes. I looked over to Ji-hun and Annie; both of them were grinning. They broke off and it looks like Ji-hun has stepped up to the plate. Annie stood next to me and crossed her arms, "his heart is filled with determination. It looks like he's serious about this. I told him I didn't mind going first but he insisted. So I relented, and told him he can go first." I hummed in response.

"I think he's done himself a huge favor. His choreography won't be perfect, but I know his heart will be in the right place." I replied. Annie gave me a confused look.

"If you say so, let's hope your wager is right on the money."

Ji-hun stood in front of the ITZY members and gave them the signal to start the music.