Chapter 12:Bonds Beyond Music

Chapter 12: Bonds Beyond Music

The days after the competition had been a whirlwind of excitement. Hana had officially become Eclipse's producer, and though there was still so much work ahead, she found herself growing closer to the members with each passing day. The rehearsals were intense, the pressure mounting, but it was the quiet moments—those small exchanges—that made her feel like she was truly becoming part of the group.

Today, she found herself in the kitchen with Jisoo.

Jisoo's Hidden Talent

The kitchen was warm, the air filled with the delicious scent of simmering vegetables and sizzling meat. Jisoo, who had been unusually quiet during the group's rehearsals, was now focused on chopping ingredients with precision. Hana watched him, stunned by how fluid and natural he looked. It was a side of him she hadn't seen before.

"You're really good at this," she commented, leaning against the counter.

Jisoo glanced up, flashing a small smile. "You could say it's a hobby of mine. I've always enjoyed cooking."

Hana raised an eyebrow. "Really? I had no idea. I thought you were just all about singing."

"I am," he chuckled. "But when I was in high school, I used to compete in cooking contests. Won a few awards, too. Cooking has always been something I've kept to myself."

Hana was amazed. "Wow, that's impressive. You know, I used to compete in cooking competitions too. Back when I was younger, I actually won a local contest."

Jisoo's eyes brightened with interest. "Really? You've got a secret chef side?"

She laughed. "I guess you could say that. My mom used to teach me all kinds of things, but cooking was one of my favorites. I guess it's like... a memory I hold onto, you know?"

Jisoo nodded, as if he understood exactly what she meant. "We should form a team. Cooking and music," he said, teasing the idea. "We'd win everything."

Hana grinned. "I'm all for it. Cooking and songwriting—sounds like the perfect combo."

For the rest of the afternoon, they worked side by side, preparing a simple but delicious meal. Hana watched Jisoo effortlessly navigate the kitchen, chopping vegetables, stirring sauces, and adding his own flair to each dish. As they sat down to eat, Hana realized how much she enjoyed the moments when the members of Eclipse weren't performing or practicing. These were the times that felt real—where they could talk, joke, and just be themselves.

Jaemin's Dream Bakery

Later that evening, as the group gathered for a break, Jaemin pulled Hana aside. His usually energetic demeanor was subdued, and he seemed a bit lost in thought.

"Hey, Hana," he said quietly, his eyes focused on the floor. "I've been thinking a lot about something. A dream, actually."

Hana turned to him, her curiosity piqued. "What's up?"

Jaemin hesitated for a moment before speaking, his voice lower than usual. "I've always wanted to open a bakery. Ever since I was a kid, I loved baking. I just never had the time or the chance to do it. But now, with everything we're doing—Eclipse and all the success—I feel like... maybe it's time to make it happen."

Hana smiled softly. "Jaemin, that's amazing. You should definitely do it."

He looked up at her, his eyes filled with uncertainty. "You really think so?"

"Of course," she said, nodding enthusiastically. "You've got the talent, and you're so dedicated to your craft. You've always been the one to bring joy and energy to the group, so I can only imagine what your bakery would be like. It would be amazing."

Jaemin's eyes brightened, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Thanks, Hana. You're the first person I've told about this, so... it means a lot to me."

Hana reached out, giving his shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "I'm always here for you, Jaemin. If you need anything, I've got your back."

Jaemin nodded, clearly encouraged. "Thanks, Hana. I think I'm going to start looking into it more seriously."

Soyeon's Growing Frustration

While Hana bonded with the members, especially Jisoo, Soyeon's frustration only grew. She watched from the sidelines as Hana continued to earn the group's respect and admiration, becoming a key part of Eclipse's creative process. It was clear to Soyeon that Hana was gaining more influence—something Soyeon was not willing to let happen.

"Don't get too comfortable," Soyeon muttered to herself one evening, her gaze icy as she observed Hana laughing with the others in the living room. "This isn't over."

Hana, oblivious to Soyeon's growing resentment, continued to build stronger relationships with the group. She had shared so many quiet moments with them, learning their likes and dislikes, the small things that made each of them unique.

The Bonds Deepen

A few days later, the group was together in the living room, winding down after a long practice session. Hana had just finished talking to Taehyun about the upcoming tracks when Jisoo approached her with a plate of freshly baked cookies. She had to admit, the man could really bake.

"Here," Jisoo said, handing her the plate. "Thought you'd like something sweet."

Hana took one, savoring the soft, buttery flavor. "These are amazing. Seriously, you could open a bakery with these."

Jisoo chuckled, a playful glint in his eyes. "Maybe I will, just like Jaemin. You know, I think I've found my new calling."

Hana laughed, looking over at Jaemin, who was already brainstorming names for his potential bakery. "You guys are unstoppable."

"Only because we have you," Jisoo teased, nudging her with his elbow. "But seriously, I think I could be content with cooking all day long. It's the one thing that calms my mind."

"You know," Hana began, "I've always thought that music and cooking have a lot in common. It's about finding the right balance of ingredients, the right mix of flavors."

Jisoo nodded thoughtfully. "Maybe that's why we get along so well. We both understand that balance."

As they sat and talked, Hana felt herself growing closer to Jisoo. There was something refreshing about him—his talent, his humor, and his quiet depth. She felt like she could truly relax around him, away from the pressure of being the producer and the expectations that came with it.

End of Chapter 12.