Brotherly Decisions

Ji-Hoo, somewhat surprised by the decisiveness in Hee Kyung's tone, had sensed his brother's shift in demeanor throughout the day. However, hearing the declaration made it all the more real. "Really? Are you sure? Didn't you always want to become a classical musician?" Ji-Hoo voiced the question that lingered in his mind. He had witnessed Hee Kyung's unwavering dedication to classical music, a dream that seemed deeply rooted in his brother's soul. The sudden change left Ji-Hoo grappling with understanding the reason behind this shift. 

"No, I'm actually sure. Although it may seem rushed, I just have a feeling that this is the right decision for me and that I won't regret it," Hee Kyung responded, his voice carrying a seriousness that hinted at a conviction beyond the surface. 

Ji-Hoo nodded, taking a moment to absorb the gravity of his brother's decision. He had always been by Hee Kyung's side, witnessing the unwavering commitment to classical music. The unexpected shift in career aspirations caught Ji-Hoo off guard, but he respected his brother's conviction. 

Hee Kyung, sensing the need to cool down his excitement, announced his intention to take a shower. As the door closed behind him, Ji-Hoo remained seated, pondering the profound change that seemed to be sweeping over his brother's life. 

Ji-Hoo, sitting alone in the room, contemplated the magnitude of his brother's decision. As the realization sank in, a deep sense of determination welled up within him. He had always been the one to stand alongside his big brother, unwavering in his support. If Hee Kyung had chosen a new path, Ji-Hoo was resolved to tread that path with him. 

His loyalty to his brother was unshakable, and the decision was clear – if Hee Kyung was becoming an idol, then Ji-Hoo would follow suit. This had always been his approach, and he saw no reason to deviate now. He had a bit more knowledge about the entertainment world, especially the intricacies of idol life, given his pre-existing interest in the industry. Ji-Hoo was well aware of the challenges and demands that awaited them, but his commitment to staying by his brother's side surpassed any apprehensions. 

He envisioned a shared journey, a joint pursuit of this dream. While he understood the harsh realities of the entertainment industry, the desire to support and debut alongside his brother fueled his determination. Their bond was a steadfast anchor, and Ji-Hoo was ready to navigate the unpredictable waters of the idol world, hand in hand with Hee Kyung. 

The decision was made – whatever it took, Ji-Hoo would follow his brother, facing the challenges and relishing the triumphs together. 

As Hee Kyung returned from the shower, he noticed Ji-Hoo engrossed in watching videos on his phone. Opting for a quiet approach, Hee Kyung settled onto his bed, mirroring his brother's actions. As he relaxed, his mind wandered to the forthcoming conversation with his parents, a dialogue he knew was inevitable. 

Tomorrow would be the ideal time to broach the subject, especially with their father returning from his business trip. Hee Kyung pondered how to navigate this discussion, well aware that his parents might not take the news lightly. Convincing them of his choice would likely be an uphill battle, reminiscent of the resistance he faced when he initially expressed his desire to pursue a career in classical music. 

His father, well-versed in the entertainment industry, had reservations about the challenges and hardships associated with such a career. It had taken days of persistent discussions for Hee Kyung to finally gain his parents' acceptance regarding his chosen path in classical music. Now, proposing a shift to the realm of idols, with its own set of complexities, was bound to be met with even more skepticism. 

K-pop, being a widely recognized and influential genre, carried a massive fan base but also a reputation for its demanding and, at times, unforgiving nature. Hee Kyung anticipated that his parents would be concerned about the potential hardships and toxicity associated with the idol industry. Convincing them would require not only expressing his passion but also assuring them that he was fully aware of the challenges ahead. 

As Hee Kyung lay in bed, contemplating the upcoming conversation, he acknowledged the magnitude of the decision he had made. The support of his family, crucial in navigating the unpredictable entertainment landscape, was something he earnestly sought. The anticipation of their reaction weighed on him, but he remained resolute in his determination to pursue this new dream, armed with the conviction that had guided him through challenges in the past. 

As Hee Kyung lay with closed eyes, attempting to drift into sleep, he was interrupted by his brother's voice. Ji-Hoo's inquiry cut through the quiet, "Are you still awake?" 

Opening his eyes, Hee Kyung responded, "Yeah, what is it, Hoonie?" 

Ji-Hoo's voice, laced with uncertainty and a hint of sadness, reached Hee Kyung's ears, "Can I also become an idol? I want to stay by your side, brother."

Hee Kyung didn't offer an immediate reply. Instead, he posed a question to his little brother, seeking clarity, "Then is it also your dream? Or do you just want to do it to stay by my side?" The inquiry hung in the air, prompting Ji-Hoo to consider the motivation behind his own aspirations in the world of idols.

__________

'Do I really want to do it?' Hee Kyung asked himself, wrestling with the weight of the decision. After a brief internal struggle, he reached a resolute answer, firm in his commitment to this new direction. 

"It is my dream as long as it is yours; then your dream is also mine," Ji-Hoo declared with a tone of unwavering determination. 

Hee Kyung was taken aback by Ji-Hoo's resolute response, a declaration that their dreams were now intertwined. The unexpected commitment left Hee Kyung speechless, grappling with the profound connection his brother was forging. The unspoken loyalty and selflessness struck a chord deep within Hee Kyung, making him reassess the nature of their relationship. 

'How can my dream be also yours; you dummy,' Hee Kyung thought, bemused by the unexpected turn of events. His attempts to articulate a response were met with a jumble of thoughts and emotions, leaving him momentarily unable to find the right words. Should he encourage Ji-Hoo's decision, knowing it stemmed from a desire to remain by his side, or should he caution him to think more seriously about this potentially life-altering choice? 

Upon reflection, Hee Kyung realized that Ji-Hoo had been getting really close and clingy, especially during their teenage years. Things that he hadn't paid much attention to before suddenly made sense. It was like fitting together puzzle pieces. Now he saw all those moments when Ji-Hoo had shown how much he cared. 

It was a bit surprising for Hee Kyung to notice these things just now, but all those signs were there. Their relationship had evolved into something more than just being brothers. There was this warmth between them, an unspoken understanding, and a kind of attachment that had been growing quietly. 

As Hee Kyung thought about it, he saw that Ji-Hoo's behavior had been shaping their bond all along. It was like discovering a new layer to their connection, and it made Hee Kyung appreciate his brother in a whole new way. 

The realization brought a twinge of sadness to Hee Kyung. He couldn't help but feel a bit disheartened that Ji-Hoo seemed to revolve his life around staying close to him rather than pursuing his own dreams and interests. It made Hee Kyung question if this dynamic was healthy for his brother. 

Hee Kyung wanted Ji-Hoo to live his life to the fullest, following his own dreams independently. The bond between them was special, but Hee Kyung realized the importance of Ji-Hoo having his own path, separate from Hee Kyung's. It was a delicate balance between cherishing their closeness and encouraging Ji-Hoo's individuality. 

Caught in his contemplation, Hee Kyung was drawn back to the present by Ji-Hoo's uncertain voice. "Brother?" Ji-Hoo questioned. 

Hee Kyung, recognizing the fragility and uncertainty in Ji-Hoo's voice, responded with a serious tone, "You can follow me, but I want you to think about it again and be sure. Once you are an idol, there's no return. It will be your career, and if you don't like it, it will probably destroy you. Don't make a mistake just because you don't want to part with me." 

The gravity of Hee Kyung's words hung in the air, marking a pivotal moment in their lives. The room was filled with a weighty silence, as the brothers contemplated the profound implications of the decisions they were about to make. 

The room remained silent, with both brothers lost in their respective thoughts. Each had reached a pivotal moment in their lives, making decisions that would shape their futures. Eventually, the tranquility of the room embraced them, and they succumbed to a peaceful, deep slumber. 

__________

The next day, they followed their usual morning routine before heading to school together for their respective classes. Hee Kyung, still holding the title of class president, maintained his position as the top student in the class. As he entered the room, a wave of greetings, especially from the girls, enveloped him. Hee Kyung's striking looks naturally made him the heartthrob of the class. 

Initially feeling a bit uneasy with the attention, Hee Kyung eventually learned to embrace it, adopting a nonchalant attitude towards his popularity. He would greet his classmates with a simple "hello" in a normal voice accompanied by a subtle smile, aiming to convey his genuine nature. Yet, the effect on the girls was undeniable; they practically melted at the sight of his smile, immediately succumbing to hushed conversations about his handsome appearance and commendable character. 

As Hee Kyung made his way to his desk, the girls couldn't help but share their thoughts in barely audible whispers. "Did you see his smile? I swear, he's the most handsome guy in school," one girl gushed, earning fervent nods of agreement from her friends. Another chimed in, "And he's so nice too. I heard he helps others with their studies." 

Meanwhile, Hee Kyung's best buddies, like Minho, who was also quite handsome though not on Hee Kyung's level, called him over. They were accustomed to the attention Hee Kyung received, but a hint of envy lingered. "Come on, Hee Kyung, join us," Minho urged, acknowledging the unspoken reality that surrounded their charismatic friend. 

"Yeah, wait. I'm coming, don't stress," Hee Kyung responded with a quick stride, laughing at his friend's eagerness. He couldn't help but wonder what had spurred Minho to be in such a hurry. 

"Come on, or you won't be able to see," Sung, his nerdy friend, called out. 

Approaching with a puzzled expression, Hee Kyung joined them. Following their gaze out the window, they pointed towards Yuna, the most beautiful girl in the school, standing with a male student attempting to confess his feelings. Chocolates and flowers in hand, the boy's attempt was met with Yuna's rejection, and the onlookers' amusement. The rejected boy quickly retreated, red-faced and embarrassed. 

Witnessing the scene, Hee Kyung's friends chuckled. It wasn't the first time they had observed such incidents, yet they remained surprised that students continued to approach the goddess of the school. "Why are you both still so obsessed over her, and this charade? How many times was that already? It must have been at least 20 times that she was asked out and rejected them," Hee Kyung remarked, shaking his head as he settled into his seat. 

"Well, it's just so funny how these students think that they even have a chance. Probably even the most handsome boy from this school, which is you, wouldn't have a chance to go out with her. Why don't you give it a shot?" Minho teased. 

Sung added, "I think that would be fun to see, and you are probably the only one that would even have a chance. Although your brother is also pretty handsome, I don't think that she likes younger men." 

"Nope, not interested. I have other problems at hand and no time for love. Also, even if she would like to go out with my brother, I wouldn't let her, and I don't think that my brother likes her, so..." Hee Kyung stated matter-of-factly, turning away as their homeroom teacher entered the room. 

His friends exchanged speechless glances, their mouths hanging open in surprise. Did they hear right? Did Hee Kyung just imply that Yuna wasn't enough for his brother? As their stern homeroom teacher arrived, they quickly closed their mouths and stood at attention. 

As they observed Hee Kyung's nonchalant dismissal of Yuna in favor of his brother, his friends exchanged puzzled glances. They were well aware of the close bond between the two brothers and understood that Hee Kyung held his brother in high regard, but this seemed a bit excessive. The idea that Hee Kyung wouldn't allow Yuna to date his brother and the notion that his brother might not even be interested in Yuna left them speechless, questioning the extent of his protective instincts. It was a display of loyalty that, while admirable, bordered on the extreme in their eyes. Nevertheless, they kept their thoughts to themselves, standing at attention as the homeroom teacher took charge of the class.