Chapter 34

June 01 - June 04

The month began with an announcement that felt both surreal and exhilarating: I was officially signing with Bugatti as their global ambassador. Bugatti, the name itself carried an air of sophistication, exquisite, innovative, artistic, and unrivaled prestige. Being associated with such a legendary brand was an honor I couldn't have dreamed of when I first started my journey. 

The project was a collaboration to unveil their latest luxury model, an exclusive edition of the Bugatti Chiron, during a campaign titled 'Velocity Meets Elegance'. The campaign was set to highlight not only the car's groundbreaking design and speed but also its timeless style, something they believed I could embody perfectly. 

The shoot took place at a private racetrack outside of Paris. The Bugatti team spared no detail: a sleek, matte-black Chiron stood gleaming under the track's lights, surrounded by an atmosphere of understated luxury. I arrived dressed in a tailored white suit with subtle gold accents, the perfect blend of sophistication and power to match the car. 

"You're incredible, Yeim," the director said as I stepped out of the car after the first round of shots. "The camera loves you, and so does the Chiron." 

I smiled, appreciating the compliment but keeping my focus on delivering Bugatti's vision. The campaign was as much about confidence as it was about elegance, and I wanted to ensure every frame captured that balance. 

By the end of the day, I was both exhausted and exhilarated. Standing next to the Chiron, I couldn't help but feel a surge of pride. This was more than a photoshoot; it was a milestone. 

The following day, as I was preparing for my schedule, manager Unnie called with another big update. 

"I've just received an invitation for you to be a mentor on a new survival show," she began, her tone excited but cautious. 

"Another survival show?" I asked, raising an eyebrow. 

"Yes, but this one is different. It's called 'Are U Next?' and it's going to air globally starting June 30. They're scouting contestants from around the world, and the producers specifically requested you to join the mentor panel," she explained. 

I took a moment to process her words. Survival shows were often intense and filled with drama, but they also offered a platform to nurture new talent. The idea of being part of something international intrigued me. 

"Who else is on the panel?" I asked curiously. 

"They're keeping the full lineup under wraps for now, but I can tell you it'll be big, but you, Yuji, and Hani are invited," she said. "They want you because of your reputation for versatility and professionalism. Plus, your global appeal fits perfectly with the show's vision." 

"Hmm." I leaned back, weighing my options. "I'll need to see how it fits with my current schedule, but it sounds interesting." 

"Think about it," Unnie urged. "This could be another stepping stone for you, not just as a mentor, but as someone who inspires young talent globally." 

I promised her I would give it serious thought, though, in the back of my mind, I could already feel the pull. A project like this didn't come along every day, and the idea of contributing to the growth of future stars was tempting. At the same time, I can feel myself being drained because of it.

As I wrapped up my Bugatti collaboration, the thought of what was next lingered in my mind. Life seemed to be moving at full speed, much like the Chiron, but I was determined to steer it in the direction that mattered most to me.

June 06 – June 10

After the whirlwind of the Bugatti shoot and the news about 'Are U Next?', I welcomed a brief moment of normalcy, or as close to it as my life gets. Nora invited me to a garden party at her family's estate, Harrington Manor, just outside Boston. It was her way of keeping things lively and entertaining in her typically extravagant style. 

The estate was nothing short of impressive: a sprawling property with lush green lawns, towering oak trees, and a picturesque garden adorned with pastel blooms. The central fountain, carved from white marble, glistened in the sunlight. I arrived in a chic yet understated outfit, a peach midi dress with delicate lace detailing and nude heels. 

"Yiyi! Finally!" Nora exclaimed as she rushed to greet me. She was dressed in a vibrant lavender gown, her personality shining as brightly as her choice of color. 

"You've outdone yourself this time, Nora," I said, taking in the setup. Tables were elegantly arranged under a canopy of string lights, and waiters carried trays of sparkling drinks and hors d'oeuvres. 

"Of course, I did! What's the point of hosting a party if it's not memorable?" she replied with a mischievous grin, looping her arm through mine. "Come on, I need you to meet someone." 

Before I could protest, she led me to a group of guests near the fountain. Wyatt was there, unsurprisingly, along with Ryan and others. Wyatt smiled when he saw me, his easygoing charm as steady as ever. 

"You're late," he teased, handing me a glass of sparkling water. 

"I'm on time; Nora's just early," I replied, smirking. 

The party was a mix of casual chatter and Nora's signature flair for matchmaking. At one point, she leaned close and whispered, "You know, if you and Wyatt made it official, these parties would be even more fun." 

I shot her a look, trying not to laugh. "You need a new hobby." 

Nora shrugged, completely unbothered. "Maybe, but until then, you're stuck with me." 

June 11 - June 15

The days following Nora's party were busy but quieter in comparison. I spent most of my time either on set for 'Golden Rain' or at the library catching up on lectures. The producers of 'Are U Next?' sent over a detailed schedule and concept plan for the show, which I reviewed carefully. 

It was ambitious: contestants from around the world competing in challenges designed to test their artistry, adaptability, and creativity. The idea of mentoring young talents appealed to me, and the global stage made it even more intriguing. 

As I mulled over the invitation, Wyatt and I continued our routine walks around Boston. It was during one of these walks, near the Charles River, that he finally said something that caught me completely off guard. 

"Yiyi," he began, his voice unusually serious. 

I stopped and turned to face him. "What's wrong?" 

He hesitated for a moment before letting out a deep breath. "I think I like you. More than just a fake girlfriend." 

I blinked, surprised by his honesty. Wyatt wasn't the type to wear his heart on his sleeve, and hearing this from him felt both unexpected and sincere. 

"But I know you don't feel the same way," he added quickly, his smile tinged with self-deprecation. "I just thought you should know. It doesn't have to change anything between us." 

I took a moment to gather my thoughts before responding. "Wyatt, you're one of my closest friends, and I care about you deeply. But… I don't think I can offer you more than that." 

He nodded, his smile softening. "I figured. Don't worry, Yiyi. You're stuck with me either way." 

His maturity and understanding put me at ease, and I couldn't help but smile back. "Thank you for telling me. And for not making this weird." 

As we continued walking, the moment lingered in my mind, but our friendship remained as steady as ever. 

June 16

The day of my parents' wedding anniversary arrived, and Ivan and I had planned every detail meticulously. We chose the venue in Hotel Elite in Boston, with an elegant yet intimate setting. Twinkling fairy lights, lush floral arrangements, and soft instrumental music created a romantic atmosphere. 

Mom and Dad were overwhelmed with gratitude when they saw the effort we'd put into the celebration. "You two have outdone yourselves," Mom said, pulling me into a warm hug. 

"It's the least we could do," I replied, smiling. 

Close friends and family filled the venue, including the Wagners. Wyatt and his older brother Joshua brought their usual charm, keeping the energy lively. At one point, Uncle Wagner approached me with a teasing grin. 

"You know, Yeim, you'd make an excellent addition to our family," he said with a wink. 

"Uncle," I replied with a polite smile, "I think you enjoy stirring things up a little too much." 

He laughed, clearly amused by my response. 

The evening was filled with heartfelt speeches, dancing, and delicious food. Ivan and I even performed a surprise duet that I sang, and he played the Piano, making everyone laugh and clap along while complimenting my parents on having good children. It was a night to remember, filled with love and gratitude for everything our parents had built together. 

June 17 - June 30

After much deliberation, I could only reject the offer of being a mentor for 'Are U Next?'. The show was set to air on June 30, but I was too busy, and I knew the upcoming days would only get busier than now, and accepting it would put a lot of pressure on me.

On June 25, I received a last-minute invitation to a high-profile fashion event in Paris. Despite the tight schedule, I couldn't resist the opportunity and flew out the next day. 

The event was a glamorous affair, held in a historic Parisian palace adorned with crystal chandeliers and opulent gold accents. Designers, models, and celebrities filled the venue, each exuding effortless style. 

Walking the red carpet felt surreal. My dress, a floor-length gown with intricate embroidery, was a statement piece that garnered whispers of admiration from the crowd. Photographers snapped away as I made my way inside, where the atmosphere buzzed with energy. 

As I mingled with other guests, I couldn't help but reflect on how far I'd come. From mentoring young talents to representing global brands, my journey felt like it was just beginning. 

By the time I was back in Boston, my schedule was packed, but my heart was full. Life was moving fast, but every moment was a step toward something greater.

Also, the month ended with the recording of the finale of Golden Rain. The film was wrapped up, making most of the weight in my head disappear.

But, due to a busy schedule, I unfortunately missed the end-of-month meet-up in Taiwan. Although the members called and reached out whenever they could, I really missed being with them. I wanted to join, but I was too caught up in catching up with work that I had fallen behind on.

I surprised Lily on her birthday with other members, but I missed Chaeyeon's birthday because of the tight schedule, I didn't forget to leave a text wishing her.