65 - Upki Girl

< Member, Investor, and Fan > Was it possible that she couldn't breathe properly because she had gained weight even inside her nose? ― Hooosh~ Pshaaa~ Hongyi was continuously letting out Darth Vader-like breaths, sweating profusely from her forehead and neck. It seemed she was tense in front of the crowd. It couldn't be normal to sweat that much with the air conditioning blasting like this. Unless, of course, there was some critical health issue at play. Just as the group was about to begin something, Yeom had to step out for an urgent phone call, leaving everyone waiting. Thanks to Yeonhong's size, which didn't quite match the typical girl group image, everyone was at a loss for words. And with the unexpected pause, the atmosphere had turned awkwardly tense. What made it even more unfortunate was that, despite the situation, Hongyi had put effort into dressing up for this meeting with the company people. She had done her makeup and hair, and was wearing a tennis skirt with suspenders. A. Skirt. Her sturdy build looked as if she wouldn't be taken down in a fight even against a prime Fedor. It was an element that continued to draw attention, willingly or not. Her thighs seemed nearly as wide as Seowon's or Yona's waist. It was truly difficult to look at, yet there was something captivating that kept drawing eyes back. Reflecting on the day I first met her in Gwangju, I remember thinking to myself, 'Nowadays, even overweight women dress well. She should put more effort into her appearance.' I regret those thoughts now. Why did she even bother dressing up? Why not just come in something comfortable? Because of the fat on her shoulders—guess it was trapezius or something—the suspenders were slipping every 10 seconds, and Hongyi persistently kept pulling them back up. I almost wanted to bite through those suspenders. In this still situation where attention was bound to fall on her, she alone was energetically moving her hands, naturally drawing even more focus. ― Vuuu Engine No. 2 [I didn't expect this…] Me [I'm speaking in a serious tone, don't make any comments about Hongyi's appearance. I'll get really mad if you do.] Engine No. 2 [I'm not that lacking in character, okay?] "Ahem! Ahem!" Twitch! Ah, that was startling. One more ticking time bomb, someone oblivious to others' reactions, had just appeared. It was Aliyah, today's second new face, both a member and an investor. She suddenly cleared her throat, startling me into thinking she was going to say something about Hongyi, but it was just a simple throat-clear. Well, come to think of it, she never acted disrespectfully towards women. I was perhaps a bit too sensitive. Kathy, who was standing next to her, assisting as usual, asked, "What is it? Is your throat uncomfortable? Would you like some water?" "No, don't worry. But how much longer are we going to be like this?" Aliyah was voicing her impatience when just then, Yeom returned. "Oh dear, sorry about that. Where were we?" "We haven't started anything yet," Hyundong replied. "Aha. So where should we begin? I suppose Yunho should do the introductions since we have some members meeting each other for the first time." "Ah, right." Following Yeom's cue, I stood up. It felt as if I were about to give a presentation. Today's meeting was an official introduction between the hum-humming PDs and the new members. Not all the staff were present; only those who would be directly involved in the children's training moving forward. Apart from the official debut, today was about rebooting the practice regimen and curriculum that had been left up to the kids so far. Yeom had prepared for that part, and I just had to continue managing the members as I had done before. Oh, Jangwoo was here too, our soon-to-be road manager, who came from a karaoke waiter background, Lee Jangwoo. Instead of introducing everyone myself, I opted for each person to introduce themselves in turn. "Hello, I'm Kim Yunho, self-proclaimed head of planning. I'm in charge of member management, though I'm still learning on the job. Please take care of me." Director: Yeom Dae-Soo Vocal Trainers: Kim Hyundong, Choi Hoonmin. Rap Trainer: Beacon Dance Trainer: Ruju Road Manager: Lee Jangwoo, former Three-Star Military Driver AND. Our proud kids who, despite some minor flaws and hidden pains, will lead the next generation of K-pop! Fearlessly left everything behind and moved to Seoul for their dream of becoming singers! The entertainment genius, backup singer, and shelter dog, Yoo Eunbit! Surpassing domestic violence, school violence, after two years as a recluse, emerged to the world! However, still the twisted vocal genius, wild fox Han Seowon! Face genius! Talent genius! Effort genius! A perfectly balanced born celebrity! But with filthy luck with companies and members, even considered sponsorship, the icon of sacrifice, beautiful Turkish Angora, I yona! Possessing center-level talent and looks comparable to Yona's but still undeveloped! The misunderstood elephant of ours, the suppertime genius, and Powerball lottery wizard, Sphuushu Hongkaku! P.S. Be cautious of sleep apnea and various adult diseases (>_<) What exactly is your position, buddy? Are you just here for sightseeing? But let's nurture them, for they have top-tier dance potential! A hedgehog to men, a deer to women! Our all-mighty benefactor, the oil-rich genius princess, and mixed-blood silver-spoon maknae 'Haja Aliyah Surul Bolkiah'! (Feat. Secretary Kathy, Private Chauffeur Mr. Hong) After the brief introduction round came to an end. Aliyah, who was the last to finish, nudged Kathy as if she had pre-decided remarks. Kathy then forwarded the request to me. "If it's not too much trouble, could we see a song and dance from the members?" Aliyah's eyes sparkled with excitement. It was clear she had a personal interest in this request. Even if she hadn't asked, I had intended to showcase them; after all, she was an investor. Moreover, while Units 1, 2, and 3 were familiar with each other's skills and talents from practicing together, Hongyi was still in the dark. To alleviate the tension, Hongyi was chosen to start with her rap performance. I had asked Hongyi to prepare a cover song and an original rap with her own lyrics. "Are you ready?" I asked. "Yes… but I couldn't memorize all the lyrics for my original rap…" Hongyi admitted. At that, Beacon, our rap coach, encouraged her by saying it was okay to read from the lyrics as she performed. "Let's start with the cover song then." "Okay. Try it without the mic first." "Y-Yes…" "Good luck, unnie!" Eunbit cheered, with Yona adding her encouragement shortly. "Good luck!" "Thank you…" Hongyi played the instrumental she brought on her phone through the CEO office's monitor speakers. The chosen song was “It's a Disease” by FutureYun, a track every female rapper wants to cover at least once. As the soft piano notes and beat emerged, Hongyi started to sway gently to the rhythm. Seeing this, Beacon clapped his hands in excitement and shouted, "Rap is all about swag! Even if you don't nail it, do it confidently! Pretend you're alone and own those gestures!" Even though she's our only rapper, Beacon was already showing support. With his encouragement, Hongyi bravely began to bounce with the music. Despite her larger size, she was quite flexible, and her basic sense of rhythm was impressive. I had a feeling she'd pick up dancing quickly too. "Uh, uh, yo, check it!" With that ad-lib, MC Lukaku's rap took off. Her vocal projection was so strong that it filled the office with sound as if she had a mic. "As when a pen runs dry and rips the paper, Unpleasant memories tear through the absence of you. Even as I close my sunken eyes in a dark room, Sleep doesn't come. It's a disease that refuses to fade away. I've forgotten everything, like how to live without you. Struggling in the thorn-filled forest where memories endlessly prick, see me flounder." The perceptions of those watching Hongyi changed noticeably. Naturally so. Even though I'm not a rap expert, anyone could tell she was good. Of course, given Hongyi's appearance, most expected her to possess strong skills. Why else would anyone bring such physicality into a girl group? But beyond her skill, Hongyi had an overwhelming draw to her performance. The energy she had poured into practicing alone at home or in karaoke had unknowingly transformed into a distinct and polished style. She reminded me of Eunbit in that way. Aliyah's reaction was telling. She tugged at Kathy's sleeve, whispering in excitement, "Wow, that's amazing… I want to learn rap too." "Then ask her to teach you." Hongyi's second piece, where she rapped with her original lyrics over the music, was slightly clumsy and cheesy. However, her ability had already been proven, so it didn't affect the overall impression much. It was a successful opening showcase. Following Hongyi's performance, Aliyah requested a parade of songs. She asked Eunbit and Seowon to sing tracks they'd performed on Nodue, and both obligingly delivered without any displeasure. Having spent time at Humhumming, I've observed not just our kids but other students in training here, and they all share a willingness to sing without hesitation in front of others. It's like how people say comedians get annoyed when asked to be funny on the spot, but singers seem perpetually ready and relish performing in front of an audience. At least, that's my observation. Our trainees like Eunbit, Seowon, and Yona, as well as the trainers like Hyundong, Yeom, and Hoonmin, have all promptly sung requested songs for me. Aliyah was evidently thrilled, recording Eunbit and Seowon's performances with her phone, her expression resembling that of an awestruck fan watching their favorite foreign singer's DVD. Lastly, it was time for experienced singer Yona to perform. Yona had prepared "Flower" by Remi, a song she'd been practicing solo after leaving her team. With its infectious melody and sultry, feminine performance, it was currently a hit. Despite her recovering ankle, Yona delivered the song with dance and voice as if it were her own song, fully embodying it. Like a fish in water. Clearly, Eye Contact's cutesy concept hadn't suited Yona. "Wow… woah…" Aliyah and Kathy were particularly awestruck. The office staff were already familiar with the true Yona, but for Aliyah and Kathy, who only knew Yona's cheerful and lively persona from Eye Contact, this was quite a revelation. Aliyah's gaze of admiration wouldn't leave Yona. She's such a quick fangirl. After getting smitten with Eunbit, Seowon, and even Hongyi's rap, Aliyah ultimately became enamored with Yona. Being a member, investor, and fan… what an interesting mix. After the showcases ended for Units 1, 2, 3, and 4, Representative Yeom briefed us on the future plans. With sufficient investment secured, there were no issues concerning pre-debut training, appearance management, or album preparation. The challenge lay in coordinating promotions, broadcasts, and event schedules post-album release. This wasn't something Humhumming, which primarily focused on technical training, could address on its own. Yeom pointed out the necessity for a senior manager well-connected in the broadcast industry with abundant field experience. "My earlier call was about this matter; we have connections with about three prospects. They all have over ten years of experience at major agencies and wouldn't be involved in production, just scheduling, so we'll likely need to negotiate pay on a basic plus per-job basis." Yeom took charge of this process. With two members still needing foundational training and teamwork development, focusing exclusively on practice for at least three more months was essential. This wasn't my opinion; it was what the information window suggested. Hongyi's diet was set to last within two months, while practice and group living were scheduled for at least three months. "Are they moving into the dorms today?" I asked. "Yep, they've all brought their things," was the reply. "Then, Yunho, you'll manage the members outside practice hours." "Okay." "And Jangwoo, you're starting today too?" "Yes, with the dorms and car ready." "Great. As for pay, it'll be as previously discussed... So, that's all from me. Does anyone else have something to add?" "Oh, what about Hongyi's personal trainer?" Ruju was handling that part and had a well-known connection contracted for the job. "Anyway, since weight management will be done collectively, we hired a trainer for all five. If you search 'John Yoon' online, you'll find his profile. He's a specialist who works with actors preparing for projects or ads. The facilities are available starting today, but you need to coordinate the PT schedule separately. I'll send you the contact details via text." "You heard that, Hongyi? You're free to start at the gym today. When do you want to begin?" "I'll start from tomorrow…" "Okay, even though starting today would be ideal, I appreciate your honesty. Do you think you can lose 30 kilos in two months with that mindset? Bear in mind that if you're not ready, the entire girl group plan could be halted. The fate of everyone here rests on your shoulders." "In that case, I'll start today…" "Hehe, just kidding. The PT will sort out your diet from tomorrow anyway, so one more day won't make a huge difference. Think of today as your last meal and eat comfortably." "Thank you." She wasn't one to refuse till the end. With that, we wrapped up the meeting and decided to check out the kids' dorms. We divided ourselves into groups to ride in different cars, and Kathy approached me. "I'll lead the way to the dorms and then head off for the day. I'm on vacation starting tomorrow." Apparently, it's her first holiday after a year, following Aliyah's mother's passing, and Aliyah agreed to her taking the break even with the new dorm life set to start. "Please take good care of the princess. There's medical staff, a housekeeper, and a driver in the annex, but contact me first if anything comes up." "An annex...?" "Yes. The princess insisted on living in a semi-basement, so we rented a standalone house with one." "Oh... alright... how long is your vacation?" "A week. And here's the princess's card..." What she handed me was none other than the famed American Express Black Card. "All of the princess's expenses should be charged to this." The whole situation felt increasingly surreal. We split into three teams, heading out in Yeom's car, my own, and the Maybach Aliyah arrived in. Eunbit and Seowon joined me in Kim Gyudon's car. The two of them were a real pair of soulmates, giggling in the backseat. Watching them jogged a memory of something I had forgotten from yesterday. "Oh, right. What did Yona say to you at the hotel yesterday?" What could she have said to make their attitude towards Aliyah change so drastically? Seowon answered, "Oh, that? You'll find out soon enough. Just watch, Mr. Manager. We'll handle it and correct our bad habits." "You should work on your temper first," I quipped. "Shut up. Whose side are you even on? Every time this happens, I want to smash everything. Right, Eunbit?" "I'm fine, though…" Eunbit replied. "Whose side are you on?" Seowon asked. "Of course, I'm on your side, unnie." "If you betray me, I'll smash you too." "There's no way I would. Eek." "See? Listen to her talk. Telling adults to shut up, really." "I'm on antidepressants these days, so don't mess with me." "If you're on meds, why isn't there any change?" "Because it doesn't happen overnight. Anyway, Mr. Manager, don't meddle and just leave it to us." I wasn't sure what Yona had planned, but it should be fine if she orchestrated it. ― Vuuu While at a stoplight, I received a text. It was from Younga. Engine Unit 4 [Manager, really sorry, but when are we eating?] Sigh... Maybe I'm the one who needs to be on meds. < Member, Investor, and Fan > End