Thursday
My mind is empty as I feel myself rouse. I blinked a couple of times as I struggle to open my weary eyes. I feel so heavy, I must've been in a deep sleep last night.. the first thing I see is Yoongi's face merely inches away from me. As my senses started to come to me his warm breath tickled my lips.
He's so close... Recollections of the previous night flooded back. I let out an unintentional gasp, Yoongi started to stir. He gradually cracked open an eye. We glanced at each other for a second.
He let out a groan and rolled over onto his back. "Morning" I pushed my hair out of my face and outstretched.
"Morning. Sorry, I must've fallen asleep here last night" Yoongi mumbled.
"It's okay, I'm pretty sure I'm the one that asked you not to leave..". I recall saying those exact words in the heat of the moment.
"Mm. Sleep alright?" His head lulled to the side and he peered at me.
"Yeah. Thanks to you". Yoongi didn't say anything, he looked back up at the ceiling.
"Have you noticed anything weird lately? Before last night? Anyone bother you or.." his voice drifted amidst the calm of my bedroom.
"I don't think so... Why?" I questioned. He took a moment before answering.
"It's nothing, I need to get going... But" he peeked over at me.
"Hm?"
"If anything happens call me, I mean it"
"Are you worried about me?" I whispered. A flicker of hesitation crossed his features.
"Maybe"
He shuffled to change the subject and sat up in bed. "By the way, Hobi mentioned you're staying in Seoul for winter break. You gonna come around to the dorms for Christmas?"
"Yeah, if you guys don't already have plans then, we should spend it together" I offered. Yoongi pat down his messy bed hair in an attempt to fix it. "Mm. We could probably work on that song too"
"Really?!" I promptly sat up. Excitement collecting in my cheeks as I beamed.
"Yeah. We'll do it then. Anyways, I gotta go. I'll Catch you later?" Yoongi got up and tried to flatten out the creases in his clothes.
"Yeah, I'll see you soon, be careful out there!" Yoongi lifted a brow cockily before giving a laid-back salute and taking off.
I was left alone with my thoughts, the feelings I'd got from last night was still pressed fresh in my mind. The anxiety, then the safety Yoongi emanated when he came. Like a vivid dream only it was real.
I showered and had breakfast. Caught up on some recent music before taking off to class. I got a text from Cece reminding me to show up to work early for the meeting. Monthly rankings were going to be announced and as I strolled home after my long day I still felt energised at learning how this month's sales would payout. What was even better than that, I was going to spend the evening with Jin. The last time I saw him we kissed. Even now as I reminisce the thrill feels fresh.
I rush to pack my things and leave for work. When I get there I could sense an odd tension in the air amidst the chattering girls who were casually assembled in the lounge. It was a different vibe compared to when the club was in full swing during open hours. The regular lighting was on and most of the girls weren't ready. Many wore track suites or just basic clothes.
Mimi, after catching sight of me from where she sat beside Luna and Rina, ushered for me to come and join her.
"What's going on? Something feels off" I muttered as I scotched up close beside her so I was huddled in our small group. Rina stared down and Luna bit at her lip.
"You remember that rumour going around? The one about YG buying out the club branch? Well, it's true.." Mimi huffed.
"Not only that but, some of the girls have already started to sign new contracts. They'll probably make us do the same thing" Luna added. Rina looked up, she appeared troubled. Compared to the usually bright and sweet smile she had it just felt so unusual to see her this dejected.
"I Don't get it, even if we change over is it such a bad thing?" I asked. Before either of the girls could respond Yoona, called out for our attention to commence the meeting.
"Evening Ladies. Now, I know a lot of you are wondering what's going on with the new alterations around here so let me clear that up first". She started. I couldn't help but notice a stifled bitterness in her tone. Perhaps she wasn't pleased about the situation either.
"YG has indeed bought the business, and, because of that a few management changes are inevitable, unfortunately." Minor chatter broke out but piped down as Yoona went on.
"If you haven't re-signed your contracts yet then please do it by the end of the week. And, if you have any more qualms then come and consult me after the meeting".
I caught the frown Mimi shot my way. It only made me assume this wasn't favourable news.
"Next on the agenda. Rankings!" Yoona's attitude lifted dramatically at the mention of it. I listened while she listed off sales figures and positions, intrigued to hear my name.
"Jia. Congratulations. 5th for sales this month. I'm impressed." I received a small applaud from the girls. "Thank you" I quickly said before Yoona went on. I sat through the rest of the gathering and when we were dismissed I went to speak to Jun so I could sign my new contract.
"It's fairly similar to the previous one... Just read carefully through Claus 17.." Jun advised from beside me, I leant against the lobby desk as I looked closer at the section he'd pointed out.
"My commission... What. They're reducing it by that much?" I looked up only to see Jun frowning.
"I know.. But.. There isn't much anyone can do about it. Don't mention this to anyone else but.. Jia, Daesung-Nim could get it raised if you were to play your cards right. Just a thought ". Jun always carried a serious air about him so such an unorthodox suggestion coming from him was rare.
"I appreciate the honesty Jun. Guess I'll have to make do for now." I sighed before printing my initials on the dotted line. I took my copy of the contract and put it away in my locker before going over to my stylist to get ready for the night. The vibe kicks off as girls scramble around excitedly preparing themselves.
Cece blazes in the door with two vodka shots in hand. "Jiaaaaa. Here, this for you" she giggles as she plops down into the vacant seat beside me at the dressing tables. I can't help but grin as she shoves the shot in my hand and we throw it back.
"Gahh. Why are you always drinking the strong stuff" I involuntarily shiver as it hits. "Shhh. It's not that bad! Besides, I couldn't stand seeing that sad look on your face when I came in" She shot back.
"Really? Did I have that kinda look on my face?" I hadn't realised.
"Yeah. Whatever you're worrying about just do it later. Let's just try and make the best of a shit situation, okay?" Cece beamed from where she sat on the high stool. The bubble lights from the vanity table reflected on her silky complexion making her look even more pretty.
"You're right. Let's worry about shit later" I laughed. "Oh! One of my good friends is coming in tonight. If you have time come over and say hi". Cece nodded her head enthusiastically, I could see her stylist getting annoyed because she kept moving her head which only made me want to laugh more.
Finally, I was ready, hair in lengthy princess curls, baby doll eyes and a delightful over the knee white rhinestone embroidered dress with matching heels. I stood by the lobby chatting with Hwasa and Rina as I waited for Jin.
To my amazement, Hwasa complimented me on my rise in rank. Despite her going from 4th to 6th she doesn't seem bitter about it which was nice. Maybe she wasn't as unpleasant as I first thought and I'd just misjudged her. Either way, it only boosted my spirits and my respect for her too.
The light dinging signalling the entrance door opening pulled my interest. By now you think I would have become even a little used to that vivid charm Jin emitted. But no, maybe I'll never get used to it. It still makes my heart quiver. The way his eyes subside onto me, the sweet plump lip smile that follows. The flawlessly fit suit, his height standing the cherry on top.
Jin quickly signs in at the desk and I guide him into the lounge. We take a seat at a more private booth in the corner, Wyniee brings over the menu and excitedly recognizes him.
"Jin Jin Jin!" she starts chiming his name. "It's good to see you again too" He laughs. After we decide on ordering something on the lighter side Wyniee excitedly hurries off to the bar.
I sat still, light tingles ran over me as Jin carefully pushed part of my hair back over my shoulder. He came nearer so that I could hear his voice in my ear more effortlessly over the music of the club.
"How's my princess?" I felt his breath against my exposed neck. I wanted to lean into him but I remained in place, legs crossed, trying my best to keep my composure.
"Happy that you're here with me" I smiled. Jin pulled away only enough to lay a soft kiss on my cheek. "Me too. I'm sorry I can't spend more time with you.." He started to say.
"No, it's okay. I remember from the beginning you told me that you didn't have time to date.." I replied. Jin dipped his head to the side in thought.
"You remember? That was our first time meeting if I recall. We went for coffee and you sat there red as a tomato" Jin cracked a smirk.
"That's only because you were teasing me so much! Like I could help it-" I tried to defend myself but Jin appeared bemused. He enjoyed getting me worked up. The clank of Wyniee placing our drinks on the table interrupted us from our chatter.
"Voila, ~ Let's get the party started!~" The cute blonde gave a tiny bow before plopping into the chair across from us. Jin thanked her and I went to pour our liquors.
An hour filled with laughter and banter passed effortlessly. The drinks flowed one after the other, by that time Cece finally made it over to our table.
"So! This is the infamously charming and stunning Jin my bestie keeps telling me about!" Cece praised openly as she tipsily pranced over. I burst out laughing as I noticed Jin's moment of surprise. "Shhh. Don't tell him my secrets~" I laughed along. Jin and Cece acquainted themselves. The four of us resumed drinking, somewhere along the way we got sucked into the open karaoke. Our table was surely the rowdiest of tonight. As the end of my shift neared Jun approached the table and asked to speak to me for a minute.
I followed him over to the bench of the bar. I was almost still too mesmerized by the looks Jin would fling my way from over at the table that I nearly missed what Jun had said.
"Daesung is going to arrive in 45 minutes. He wants you to stay back". I felt my stomach dip an inch.
"Oh... Okay...". Of all nights why tonight. The wonderful time I'd been having was likely about to be ruined by that egocentric asshole.
"Sorry. Wrap things up with your client and get the VIP room readied. Let Cece know that the same goes for her. You'll both be entertaining two tonight" Jun gave a dry cough before going off to his random duties.
I went back over, struggling to mask my dismay but after the girls both left and our time together came to an end I broke the news to him.
"I'm so sorry, I have to stay back a bit longer. I might not finish until 3 or 4 am" I sulked. Jin cupped and squished my cheeks.
"Don't apologise, it can't be helped right?" He mumbled. He was tipsy and wasn't doing a very good job of hiding his disappointment. I reached up and clasped his hands in mine and started swinging playfully to the music. "I'll make it up to you, I promise". With that, I leant in and smooched him. It was bold of me and he was caught off guard. He nipped at my lips softly and I had to pull away.
"If you insist. I have been waiting for an excuse to get a massage off you for a while now" Jin sniggered. "When will I see you next?" I asked. Jin sucked in a sharp breath. "I can't say. I haven't decided if I'm leaving over the break. I'll just have to let you know later" Jin answered. His schedule was always so unpredictable, when I did get the rare opportunity to spend time with him I tried to enjoy it as much as I could. Neither of us could say for certain when the next time would be.
After I reluctantly sent Jin off I went and helped Cece get the VIP room ready. We both had a good bitch about our expected client's to one another the entire time. When Dae arrived he had entered with another Idol, one from his group. As we sat together at the table and started to get the session underway I felt as star-struck as I'd been the first time. Tae Yang sat across from me, his arm cozily around Cece's slender waist.
The boys had purchased a crazily expensive bottle, it sparkled from its position on the table. Half of it was already gone. Dae's laugh hit my ear loudly. I began feeling dizzy. I could feel his arm trespassing around my mid but all my efforts were focused on staying conscious. Cece peered at me through the banter, did she know I was about to pass the fuck out?
"Oh! Please excuse Jia and me for a moment" I barely made out her words. I was being pulled away. I opened my eyes to see a bowl of water. A gurgling in my stomach turned into burning in my throat. I was throwing up right now. Cece pulled my hair back from behind.
"Just let it out. These guys are such jerks. I can't believe this.." I could hear her outrage over the sound of my dry heaving. After the last of it came up Cee got me water and hastily fixed my makeup. I felt a lot better, reality started flickering back in.
"Thanks, I seriously-" I paused to blow my nose before going on "am over these guys. I can't even water it down like I usually would cause they just buy straight".
"I know. Now that I think about it, that's probably their plan. I just get a dangerous vibe from these guys. Like they're purposely trying to get you to the point of passing out… I don't want to think about what'll happen after that…" Cee grimaced at her reflection in the mirror from beside me. Her tone is serious.
"That's fucked… Is that actually a thing? The way you say it…" I glanced at her.
"Yeah. I've seen it happen. Don't worry, we should be fine. You threw up so just take it easy. It's nearly 3 can't imagine they want to stay much longer. Let's get back".
Cee was right, we only spent a little more time with them until 3 am. Jun was assertive at closing time, all the patrons were out and cleaning was underway not a minute late. I laid down on one of the couches, I had no energy left whatsoever. If it wasn't for Cece shaking me awake and pushing me into a taxi I probably would have woken up still at the club.
She took me home, undressed me, showered me and put me into bed. Bitch was an absolute angel sent down to me from God himself. I tried to fight her off but she wasn't about to leave me like that.
"I'll leave some Ajushi juice on your table. Drink it as soon as you wake up" I heard her call out from the kitchen on her way out.
"I love you! Get home safe" I snuggled into my sheets as I called back. I heard the door close behind her. Exhaustion took me and I passed out.